Interactive Map of the BioDump locations and the 5 mile radius around it.

Why is the 5 Mile Radius Important?

✅ 1. Air Quality & Respiratory Health

Emissions from biodigesters can include:

  • Ammonia, methane, hydrogen sulfide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
  • These gases may cause:
    • Respiratory issues (especially in children, elderly, and those with asthma)
    • Headaches, nausea, and dizziness (especially with hydrogen sulfide exposure)
    • Long-term exposure risks (e.g., neurological symptoms)

Odor complaints are extremely common, and while not always dangerous, they can impact quality of life and mental well-being.

✅ 2. Water Contamination Risks

If the biodigester or its associated storage lagoons or pipelines leak or overflow:

  • Groundwater and surface water contamination can occur (especially in rural areas with private wells).
  • Potential contamination includes:
    • Nitrates, phosphorus, and pathogens from manure or food waste.
    • Heavy metals or pharmaceuticals (depending on feedstock sources).
  • Health effects: Nitrates in drinking water are especially dangerous to infants (blue baby syndrome) and linked to cancer and thyroid issues in adults.

✅ 3. Soil and Ecosystem Disruption

  • Accidental spills or overapplication of digestate (the byproduct) can:
    • Alter local soil microbiomes
    • Harm native vegetation
    • Increase algae blooms in nearby lakes or rivers (eutrophication)

✅ 4. Insects and Wildlife

  • Facilities can attract flies, rodents, birds, and invasive species, disrupting natural ecosystems.
  • Larger facilities may disturb wildlife corridors or create habitat fragmentation.

✅ 5. Antibiotic Resistance & Pathogen Spread

If improperly treated waste (especially from dairy or food industry sources) is used:

  • Antibiotic-resistant bacteria and pathogens (like E. coli, Salmonella) may survive and spread.
  • Risks to farmworkers, nearby residents, and wildlife.

⚠️ Community Examples

Many rural and suburban communities across the U.S. have reported health and environmental issues from poorly regulated biodigester projects:

  • Vermont, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina have seen community pushback.
  • Often, the cumulative impact of odor, truck traffic, emissions, and water concerns creates a noticeable biological and lifestyle impact, even if each factor alone is within “legal limits.”