NJTA Spraying Toxic Chemicals - Who Knew?

I was surprised to learn, by perusing the May 2014 Meeting Agenda for the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, that they have continued a contract for the spraying of toxic chemicals. This particular state contract is being extended to the end of this August 2014. The contract amount has been raised from $30K to $45K. These chemicals, referred to as Glyphosates, can leech into the ground, and consequently, our drinking water. The chemical herbicides used are: ACCORD® CONCENTRATE or Dow Accord XRT 11.

There are extensive instructions for workers who spray these chemicals requiring much more besides chemical-resistant gloves and long-sleeved shirts and pants. Every part of the body has to be covered because it is easily absorbed through the skin.

Health effects range from lung congestion, kidney damage, and reproductive damage. This should be of some concern to communities along the NJ Garden State Parkway who have less tree coverage because of the massive shoulder widening project.

The million dollar question of course is: When, where, and how much has been sprayed? It's anyone's guess as the NJTA does as the NJTA does with no oversight or concern for the public welfare.

Please refer to these links below for information:

Top of page 5 of May 2014 Parkway Agenda: http://www.state.nj.us/turnpike/documents/Final_Agenda_05-28-2014_bm.pdf

Page 17 for the preferred chemical herbicide being used: http://www.state.nj.us/turnpike/documents/2010-BID-PURCH-AWARDS/BID-PURCH-RM-817.pdf

While there are several articles on glyphosates, this one is good for starters, although just by googling articles on glyphosates you will have a plethora to choose from: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/04/15/glyphosate-health-effects.aspx