Just a heads-up for everyone in Massachusetts: The state has decided to spray a pesticide called Anvil (primary ingredient is a pyrethroid insecticide called sumithrin) which can cause various problems in humans, such as breast cancer, nervous system issues, and thyroid problems. It also kills many forms of life, most notably bees, dragonflies, and fish. The chemicals have a half-life of 1 day to 16 weeks once in contact with the ground.

This is the first time in a while that the state has done anything like this. The decision was made without input from people affected, and the plan was only just recently disclosed with barely any warning. Lots of residents, local organic farmers, and environmentalists are upset (and rightly so).

Officials are urging people to stay indoors tonight. The spraying will take place between dusk and 1 a.m. just south of Boston (as far as I can tell), but since it’s an airborne chemical it may spread more than intended (especially with winds).

The spraying may be delayed tonight due to the weather; we’ll have to wait and see.

Update: The gov’t postponed the spray for mosquitos (possibly carrying EEE) until Tuesday, Aug 8…