BRIEFS. health

Dead cows prompt investigation

Edilsa González Roca/la prensa

worried: Residents of Puerto El Gago are concerned that toxic materials from a landfill may have caused the deaths of four cows. 1121127

The death of four cows near the Los Cerritos landfill has some Puerto El Gago of Penonomé residents concerned that toxic materials from the dump are contaminating ground water.

Farmer Gustavo Márquez said that he is afraid that more animals and people will be affected. He said that slaughterhouses in the region are not disposing of carcasses properly, and that these materials may be the cause of the contamination.

Fellow farmer Alejandro Agrazal said that if this problem is not resolved, ultimately all ranchers, farmers and fishermen in the area will be affected.

He said that urgent action is needed from authorities, since the problem could impact nearby residents.

The ministries of Health and Agricultural Development have opened an investigation into the incident. Tests are being conducted on the cows to determine what caused their deaths.