A $19-million independent study probing the controversial issue of oil and gas well emissions and possible impacts on human and animal health has released the research parameters of the project.
Dr. Tee Guidotti, co-chair of the science advisory panel for the Western Interprovincial Scientific Studies Association (WISSA), said the three-year study has been designed to ensure scientifically sound findings. A final report is expected to be released in 2004.
Concerns over possible health effects of flaring have been growing in Alberta. Hythe-area farmer Wiebo Ludwig, who was recently released after serving jail time for oilpatch vandalism, has claimed flaring from sour-gas facilities near his Trickle Creek farm are responsible for several miscarriages and stillbirths among his daughters and the family’s animal stock.
Other landowners have opposed wells near or upwind of their homes, fearing adverse affects on their cattle and other livestock.
The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers says the industry is aware of the public’s concerns and has worked to reduce flare emissions 38 per cent since 1997. But it says research to this point has been inconclusive as to the link between these emissions and animal and human health.
Guidotti agrees. “Previous research has not been conclusive and this study is different as it is more comprehensive both geographically and in terms of the number of animal herds that are being studied,” he said.
The peer-reviewed study will include components on beef cattle productivity, assessments of immune function in beef cattle, wildlife reproduction and immune function, exposure monitoring of air quality and a future component on human health.
If a link is determined between emissions and health, WISSA says further research will be considered “assuming additional funding would become available.”
WISSA is a not-for-profit company managed by a board of directors from the four western provinces. Its science advisory panel includes 10 scientists who have endorsed the study design and scientific integrity of the research. The four provinces are sharing the costs of the study.
