Rocket fuel in your salad.

• Author: Schultz, Kimberly A.
• Position: From Readers - Letter to the Editor

I am writing in response to the great article in the November/December 2003 issue ("A Little Rocket Fuel With Your Salad?"), but first I want to say how much I look forward to receiving my World Watch every two months! I am always quoting articles in it to my colleagues at the University of Missouri in St. Louis.

My background is in tropical ecology and forestry, so my knowledge of water as a natural resource is lacking. The article by Gene Ayres was an eye-opener for me, and I am going to begin exploring the issues he addresses in it. To get started I have a question. Since the problem of perchlorates has been found in locations in 43 states I am concerned about the health and safety of my family. Is it necessary for individuals to investigate the levels of perchlorates in the drinking water and produce within their towns? If so, does each town or county health department test these things, and is the information available for the public?

KIMBERLY A. SCHULTZ

University of Missouri

Gene Ayres replies: I'm sorry to say that while I can't speak for every state...