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Resident says private spraying is harming property; asks county for help
Summary
A Wythe County resident described repeated private pesticide spraying that he alleges contaminated his property and harmed animals, and asked county staff and supervisors for assistance and guidance on enforcement.
Joe Upcavage (public commenter) told the board that his property has been repeatedly sprayed and that he and his family fear for their health. He described a recent incident in which a trampoline was left “dripping wet” after spraying and said he could not identify the applicator or the chemical used. “I think I’m literally being poisoned,” Upcavage said, telling supervisors he has a baby who crawls on his yard and that chickens and other animals may have been affected.
Chair James D. Smith asked whether the spraying was aerial or ground‑based; Upcavage said the spraying was done by tractor on leased farmland. Staff directed him to follow up after the meeting so county staff can help direct him to appropriate state agencies and enforcement resources; supervisors said they would assist in identifying the right contact points and review relevant information with county attorney staff.
