Understanding the Impact of PCB Pollution in Berkshire County

The Devastating Legacy of GE and Monsanto in Pittsfield

For decades, Berkshire County has grappled with a silent yet deadly legacy - the extensive pollution of its environment with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). This toxic legacy can be traced back to the General Electric (GE) plant in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, which for years manufactured these highly carcinogenic chemicals in collaboration with Monsato.

The Extent of Contamination

EGE's reckless disposal and use of PCBs have left an indelible mark on Berkshire County. More than a million and a half pounds of PCBs were leaked or dumped into the Housatonic River. Shockingly, PCB-laden fill was also donated to towns as clean fill and buried throughout the county. Notoriously, the contaminated sediment dredged from a section of the river was dumped next to Allendale Elementary School, creating a toxic waste dump known as Hill 78, still present today.

The contamination extends beyond the Housatonic River. Areas like Silver Lake and Unkamet Brook have also been affected, with continuous re-contamination occurring. Various sites like Dorothy Amos Park, Newell Street Parking Lot, and the Rose Superfund Site in Lanesborough show widespread PCB presence, highlighting GE's pervasive pollution footprint across the region.

The Health Impact

PCBs are known carcinogens and have been linked to various cancers such as leukemia, breast cancer, melanoma, and prostate cancer, among others. The residents of Berkshire County, unknowingly exposed to these toxins through the air, water, and soil, face increased risks of these serious health issues. The situation in Berkshire County is a stark reminder of the long-term health implications of industrial pollution.

Legal Actions and Remediation Efforts

The extent of GE's contamination and its approach to remediation has been a subject of controversy and legal battles. Efforts to clean up the contaminated sites have been underway, but many criticize them as insufficient. GE's strategy primarily involves removing a small amount of the contaminant, capping the rest, and declaring the areas "cleaned." Meanwhile, the residents of Berkshire County continue to live with the consequences of this environmental disaster.

Your Rights and Next Steps

If you or a loved one in Berkshire County believe you've been affected by PCB exposure due to GE and Monsanto's activities, it's crucial to understand your rights and consider legal action. Attorney Terry DeAngelo is dedicated to assisting those impacted by this environmental injustice. For more information and to discuss your situation, contact Attorney DeAngelo directly at 610.804.0289 or via email at Terry@PhilaAdvocates.com.

Taking a stand against such corporate negligence is not only about seeking justice for the past, but also about ensuring a safer, healthier environment for future generations. If you're in Berkshire County and concerned about PCB exposure, don't hesitate to reach out and explore your legal actions.