Fort Worth Confronts 'Forever Chemicals' as Synagro Ends Fertilizer Deal

The City of Fort Worth has terminated its contract with fertilizer provider Synagro, amidst allegations of “forever chemicals” contaminating local agriculture, leading to lawsuits and a criminal investigation.

The City of Fort Worth, Texas, has officially terminated its contract with Synagro, a firm backed by Goldman Sachs that provides fertilizer derived from sewage sludge. The decision comes on the heels of escalating worries regarding “forever chemicals” contaminating the local farmland and groundwater, prompting the city to take legal action against the manufacturers of these substances, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

In a striking revelation, the city is holding Synagro responsible for purportedly polluting the local farming community, particularly in neighboring Johnson County, where ranchers have alleged that crops and livestock have been adversely affected by the toxic fertilizer. The sewage sludge fertilizer, which Synagro sources from Fort Worth's sewage treatment plant, has been central to these claims. In light of these allegations, Johnson County officials have initiated a criminal investigation into the firm.

Research indicates that sewage sludge often contains harmful contaminants, including PFAS, which are synthetic chemicals linked to widespread everyday products such as nonstick cookware and water-resistant fabrics. With the health and safety of the local community hanging in the balance, Fort Worth’s decision may mark a significant turning point in the ongoing struggle against environmental contamination in agricultural practices.