The Sun Journal reported July 12 that an act of vandalism and sabotage had occurred at the DeCoster egg facility. This report called in the state police for an investigation. The implication of the report was that neighbors of the facility were the responsible parties. The next day the paper reported that faulty equipment in the facility’s operation had run the watering spigots all night long, which saturated manure in the barn.

The compliance and safety manager for DeCoster’s reported improved fly count conditions in the neighborhood and had the gall to even recommend good housekeeping tips for all those concerned. This same manager has failed to implement the most minimal fly control practices, such as drying the manure at the facility. At an operation that houses over 3.5 million chickens and produces 235 tons of manure per day, maybe the compliance officer should concentrate his efforts on drying and managing the manure, versus offering recipes for keeping our homes clean.

We, the neighbors, are outraged at being targeted for the malfunctioning equipment at the operation. We continue to be frustrated with DeCoster’s response and lack of effort in waste management. This is why we have been forced to take legal action.

We keep our houses clean. Do they?

Donna Shields, Turner

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