Carl Day defends Kentucky soil sample collection methods in Tulsa

Carl Day defended his gathering of Kentucky earth and grass specimens following business criticism in Tulsa. The response addresses company claims about the validity of the environmental testing process. Results have not established that aluminum production caused the measured fluoride levels.

Oklahoma Primary Aluminum previously questioned the procedures Day used to gather the materials. The company raised concerns regarding the exact locations where he picked up the specimens.

OPA stated standard environmental testing controls were not verified. Neither the testing laboratory nor an Oklahoma State University toxicologist verified those controls.

Day disputed the company’s description of his field locations. He told reporters he did not manipulate the samples.

He took the items from the road shoulder. He did not take them from a drainage ditch. A laboratory advised him on gathering sites to prevent trespassing on private land.

Day noted his regular agricultural work involves sending plant and ground matter for laboratory testing. The activity occurred near regional properties around Tulsa.

The OSU veterinary toxicologist said the laboratory credentials appeared sound. The scientist confirmed the testing methods used on the submitted materials were appropriate.

The toxicologist could not evaluate the initial sampling plan. He said broader sampling is needed to accurately determine potential risks.

Environmental testing controls establish standard steps to keep outside material from altering scientific readings. Specialized laboratories evaluate vegetation and ground matter for chemical concentrations.

The scientific review remains limited to the submitted Tulsa specimens.