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As a family that lives, raises livestock, and farms next to the site of the proposed anhydrous ammonia plant, our families are firmly opposed.
Many residents are just now learning about a proposed anhydrous ammonia plant planned just outside town — and that alone should concern everyone.
Ammonia is a highly toxic gas. Accidental releases — whether from equipment failure, human error, natural disasters, or transportation incidents — can cause severe burns, lung injury, long-term health effects, and, in worst cases, death.
Recent claims that ammonia is “lighter than air and goes straight up when released,” is misleading and incomplete. Anhydrous ammonia is stored under pressure as a liquid (very cold, very dense). When released, it expands into a gas, forming a heavy, low-lying cloud that can travel for miles in large releases. A quick Google image search will show dense white clouds of ammonia hovering at ground level after leaks. These are not theoretical concerns or fear mongering.
Communities across the country have experienced evacuations, hospitalizations, and lasting environmental damage following ammonia leaks. Members of our own community have been adversely affected by ammonia. And who will assume liability if a disaster occurs? Is the city prepared to do so?
Everything in life is a balance of risk versus benefit. In this case, the risks — while potentially rare — are serious and could be life-threatening.
If you have unanswered questions, concerns, or simply want to learn more, please plan to attend the upcoming meetings: City Zoning meeting, Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 5:30 p.m., at City Hall. Hartington City Council meeting, Monday, Jan. 26, at 5 p.m., at City Hall We are not looking to create conflict, but after being labeled “difficult” and “uneducated” and feeling our concerns have been dismissed rather than addressed, we are making our position public — we don’t want an ammonia plant moving in next door.
Isn’t there an alternative site that would be safer for the community? We urge all residents, landowners and area citizens to attend these meetings — even if you are undecided, your presence matters and is appreciated. Silence from the community will be interpreted as consent.
Our community deserves development that is safe, transparent, and accountable. We ask our neighbors to stand with us, stay informed, and make their voices heard.
— Roger and Barb Sudbeck Greg and Angie Sudbeck & Brian and April Sudbeck Hartington
