The Apple Bites Back: Claiming Old Orchards for Residential Development
2006
The Apple Bites Back: Claiming Old Orchards for Residential Development
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Ernie Hood
Hypothesis
What are the health risks associated with residential development on historic orchard properties contaminated with lead and arsenic?
Conclusion
Living on historic orchard properties contaminated by lead and arsenic does not constitute an immediate threat to human health.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 6 million acres of American farmland were converted to developed uses between 1992 and 1997.
- Lead arsenate was the most widely used pesticide until it was banned in 1988.
- Arsenic is a known human carcinogen, and lead exposure can lead to neurological damage.
Takeaway
Some old apple orchards have chemicals in the soil that can be harmful, but living there isn't usually dangerous right now.
Methodology
The study involved comparing disturbed and undisturbed fields in historic orchards to assess arsenic levels.
Limitations
The study does not provide direct evidence of health effects from exposure to arsenic and lead in humans.
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