Stop fireworks to keep island, sound clean

The US Geological Survey reported on May 2 that past fireworks displays are the probable cause of elevated levels of perchlorate in groundwater within Mount Rushmore National Park. The USGS and the National Park Service studied perchlorate and metals associated with fireworks in samples taken at Mount Rushmore from 2011 to 2015 and the contaminant levels were highest in soil and water where fireworks were launched.

June 15, 2016 4:30 am

The US Geological Survey reported on May 2 that past fireworks displays are the probable cause of elevated levels of perchlorate in groundwater within Mount Rushmore National Park. The USGS and the National Park Service studied perchlorate and metals associated with fireworks in samples taken at Mount Rushmore from 2011 to 2015 and the contaminant levels were highest in soil and water where fireworks were launched.

Here on Vashon, we bombard Quartermaster Harbor and surrounding areas with fireworks debris every 4th of July. Rather than continuing to pollute this beautiful island, wouldn’t it be even more patriotic to do our bit to keep Vashon and Puget Sound clean?

Fireworks were suspended in 2010 as part of Mount Rushmore’s July 4th celebration and are no longer included. Mount Rushmore is one of the most revered and patriotic places in America, so why should Vashon be less so? Please halt the fireworks.

— Jan & Charlie Peterson