PA Agriculture Secretary: Crops in Beaver, Washington Counties not affected by derailment
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary, Russell Redding has announced on Tuesday that samples from crops in Beaver and Washington Counties show no signs of contamination from the East Palestine train derailment disaster.
In late April, PA Department of Agriculture technicians took samples from various crops including triticale, grass, hay, spelts, garlic and blueberry bushes to determine levels of 26 semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) present.
Scientists at Penn State University tested the samples and found no compounds present above reportable limits for that substance. Results indicated that plant tissue is an unlikely source of exposure for SVOCs.
Secretary Redding says Governor Josh Shapiro's administration will continue monitoring soil and water quality in the area and continue working with experts to provide tangible evidence to producers and consumers that their crops are safe.