To the editor: CAFOs are a danger to our water

An algae bloom from Lake Erie appears in the boat basin at International Park in Toledo.

I grew up on the shores of Lake Erie and watched the lake die and recover. As an adult, I’ve had a lake home for the past 35 years, and now I am watching Lake Erie die again. This summer brings another algal bloom that has impacted public health, the environment, tourism, and the economy.

And what is the cause of the harmful algal blooms? According to the Ohio Environmental Council, the primary cause is agricultural pollution, of which manure pollution is a large contributor. The run-off of manure from animal farms into Ohio streams and rivers is the latest example. 

Smaller animal farms that are exempt from the rules for concentrated animal feeding operations are left to voluntarily comply with best practices for a clean lake. Is this working? No.

It is time to advocate for the Ohio Environmental Council’s recommendations regarding manure management and phosphorus applications for all animal feeding operations.

As citizens concerned about Lake Erie, take a look at this report and call your state legislators. Ohio needs to act now before another summer of green water and closed beaches ensues.

ELLEN GREENE BUSH

Port Clinton, Ohio

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Free speech is not only for the few

The Sept. 23 editorial titled “Tuning out”questions the rights of actors to use their status “for personal agenda instead of entertainment.”

I guess the writer needs to be reminded about the First Amendment and the rights for all people to have free speech.

BRENDA BRIGHT HAGMAN

Charlestown Avenue