GEC on Fluoridated Drinking Water in Yellow Springs

Fluoridation of drinking water has been a practice in the US since the 1950s because at that time, it was believed to prevent dental cavities and tooth decay. More recently, this has become a controversial topic as many scientists report the toxicity of fluoride and the risk it inflicts on human health. In 1969, the state of Ohio made it mandatory for all communities with over 5000 residents to have fluoridated drinking water. At that time, there was a 240 day period in which communities could choose to be exempt, which both Springfield and Xenia did. The village of Yellow Springs has voluntarily fluoridated its drinking water since 1959, however, with a population under 5000, the village still has a choice.

Recently, the Village of Yellow Springs has started to consider the action of no longer adding fluoride to its drinking water. The Yellow Springs Environmental Commission made this recommendation to the Village Council on March 1, 2010, and it was discussed at their March 15 meeting. Council’s recommendation was to have it put in a resolution to further discuss at a future meeting in April. (cont.)

Read more on the Green Environmental Coalition (GEC) Website.