BURLINGTON, Vt. -
Vermont scientists say residents do not need to worry about exposure to a hazardous chemical from nearby farms.
Experts with the Vermont Department of Health checked for formaldehyde levels in the air around farms. The toxic chemical is used to prevent a hoof disease in cattle. Some blamed the practice for breathing and disorientation problems last year leading state officials to investigate.
"The good news from our study is that indications are that there's no difference in the air quality relative to formaldehyde whether the dairy is using formaldehyde for hoof treatment or some other chemical for hoof treatment," said Bill Irwin of the Vt. Health Department.
Irwin says they only tested fumes because the chemical breaks down too quickly to pose a threat in the soil or water.
The tests took place at five farms in three different counties.
