Strange Substance from Freight Trains Concerns Rensselaer County Family
A Rensselaer County man is worried about a mysterious black substance that has been appearing on his property, vehicles, and soil, which he believes is coming from nearby freight trains. Dave Quillanon and his family have been living in their Schaghticoke neighborhood for 15 years, but the substance appeared a few months ago after a New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) project.
NYSEG Project and Tree Removal
According to Quillanon, NYSEG came through and removed all the trees that were blocking the railroad from his property. This change has allowed the 15 to 20 freight trains passing by his property every day to release the substance.
Concerns for Well Water and Family Health
Quillanon’s concerns go beyond just the appearance of the substance. He is worried about the potential impact on his family’s well water and health. “We have well water. Like I said, we don’t know what this black grease or tar is putting into our soil,” he explained.
Pushing for Action
Quillanon’s concerns were amplified when he noticed the substance smearing on his windshield while driving. This prompted him to speak out and reach out to local representatives for help.
Town Supervisor’s Insight
Quillanon’s wife contacted Ed Kinowski, the town supervisor of nearby Stillwater, who has dealt with a similar issue with Genesee and Wyoming, the same company managing the trains going through Quillanon’s neighborhood. Kinowski noted that the substance could be poorly burned diesel fuel, hydraulic fluid, or any other number of substances.
Solution and Next Steps
Quillanon is seeking a solution to the problem, suggesting a barrier, such as a fence or wall, to prevent the substance from reaching his property. NEWS10 has reached out to NYSEG, who has agreed to investigate the issue, and Genesee and Wyoming Inc., who have promised to work with Quillanon’s family to correct the situation.
Conclusion
The Quillanon family’s concerns highlight the importance of addressing environmental issues and ensuring the well-being of local communities. As the investigation continues, it is essential to determine the nature of the substance and find a solution to prevent its impact on the environment and public health.
FAQs
Q: What is the nature of the substance?
A: The substance is believed to be a type of tar or grease, but its exact composition is still unknown.
Q: Who is responsible for the substance?
A: NYSEG and Genesee and Wyoming Inc. are responsible for the trains that are releasing the substance, and they have agreed to investigate and correct the situation.
Q: What is the impact on the environment and public health?
A: The substance could potentially contaminate the Quillanon family’s well water and pose health risks to the family and the surrounding community.
Q: What is being done to address the issue?
A: NYSEG and Genesee and Wyoming Inc. have agreed to investigate the issue and work with the Quillanon family to correct the situation. The Quillanon family is also seeking a barrier to prevent the substance from reaching their property.
