Attacks Unwarranted

I have been an employee of The Worm Concern since April, 1994, and have lived in Simi Valley since 1986.

During this time I have never seen a rat (either dead or alive) at The Worm Concern and have not heard of any seen by other employees.

As for dust, since I started at The Worm Concern, they have instituted a fine misting watering system around the screen to control dust, and they have purchased a water truck to keep dust down around the property. I also understand that they have requested permission from the county to put a pad in for grinding and screening. This would also help control dust.

The odor complaints are very exaggerated and blown way out of proportion by the press. In fact, many of our customers remark how surprised they are to read in the papers about odors and some actually find the “earthy” smells pleasing.

There is an ongoing program at The Worm Concern to combat flies, and The Worm Concern is regularly monitored by the Moorpark Mosquito Abatement District for flies with favorable results.

As I observe the county strongly monitoring and coming down very hard on The Worm Concern (when it is performing a valuable service), I have also observed the neighbors getting away with similar violations. I also wonder why The Worm Concern is being so strongly attacked in the paper by people who have never been there.

The Worm Concern conducts free tours every Wednesday at 2 p.m., which are usually attended by Scouts, schools, environmentalists, home and professional recyclers, visitors from out of the area and many others. Call 520-1150 for an appointment.

JEANINE SATEL

Simi Valley