Resident pushing back against proposed Ammonia facility

While the Putnam County Board of Zoning Appeals is set to take up a request for the construction of a Green Ammonia facility in the county, a local resident has already begun pushing back against the proposed project. 

Talus Renewables is looking to build a Green Ammonia system on County Road 825 East about a quarter mile south of County Road 1100 North. The land in question is currently owned by the R&D Wyeth Family Trust in Jackson Township and is located near McCloud Nature Park. 

Resident Jordanne Vondersaar has been vocal about her opposition to the proposed facility. 

"Initially, I was concerned because my family has owned land in this area for over 120 years, and I have four young kids, whose future I care deeply about. My first worry was how this proposed ammonia plant might impact our environment, our water and our health," Vondersaar told The Putnam County Post. 

However, she admits, once she started "digging" into the details, she realized the project could have "large scale consequences" for all of Putnam County. 

"There are serious health and safety concerns if a leak were to ever occur. The site is located just one mile from McCloud Nature Park, and it would draw up to 20,000 gallons per day from our local aquifer system, which could affect private wells across the area," Vondersaar said. 

Vondersaar admitted it is "deeply concerning" that developers have tried to bring solar, wind and now a chemical manufacturing facility to Putnam County. 

"If this ammonia plant is approved on agriculturally zoned land, it sets a precedent that could open the door for similar large scale industrial developments in areas traditionally reserved for agriculture. This shift threatens the very character of Putnam County as a farming community and raises significant concerns about environmental impact, public health and the preservation of our rural heritage," she said. 

Vondersaar told The Putnam County Post she intends to convey her message Monday evening during the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting, which is set for 6:30 p.m. at the Putnam County Courthouse. 

"Our community is deeply concerned about the potential dangers posed by the proposed ammonia plant. We cherish the safety and well being of our residents and the preservation of our environment. The introduction of such an industrial facility raises significant concerns. Our community values its rural character and the safety of its residents. Introducing an industrial facility with such associated risks is not in alignment with the interests and well being of Putnam County," said Vondersaar, who noted she is asking the public to not only attend the meeting, but also let neighbors and friends know about the potential implications the project could have on the county. 

IF YOU GO...

Puutnam County Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting 

When: April 14 at 6:30 PM

Where: Putnam County Courthouse