Johnson County Declares Emergency Over Toxic Fertilizer Crisis

Following the discovery of hazardous PFAS levels in local cattle ranches, Johnson County officials have moved to declare a state of emergency to address the contamination of farmland with "forever chemicals" linked to treated sewage fertilizer.

Johnson County, located south of Fort Worth, Texas, is declaring a state of emergency in light of alarming levels of contamination from hazardous “forever chemicals” in its farmland. This move follows the investigation that revealed high concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found at two cattle ranches within the county in 2023.

The toxic chemicals, notorious for their persistence in the environment, are believed to have originated from fertilizer that was produced using treated sewage from Fort Worth’s wastewater facility. A recent investigation highlighted how the application of such contaminated fertilizer poses severe risks to agricultural lands and livestock, emphasizing the broader implications of sanitation practices.

PFAS are commonly found in everyday products such as nonstick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics and have been associated with a variety of serious health issues, including increased cancer risk, developmental problems in children, and adverse birth outcomes.

In response to the environmental and public health crisis, county commissioners have called on Texas Governor Greg Abbott to support the emergency declaration and seek federal disaster resources. Commissioner Larry Woolley stated that this situation represents "uncharted territory," with expected funds earmarked for essential measures such as testing drinking water sources, cleanup efforts, and, if necessary, the euthanization of affected livestock.

Local officials emphasize the urgent need for federal assistance to safeguard both the health of residents and the integrity of agricultural practices in the region.