April 15, 2010
Farmers Guardian

Millions of tons of volcanic dust have been thrown into the atmosphere by the erupting Eyjafjallajokull volcano.

Flights across the UK have been grounded because of the dangers to aircraft and farmers have now expressed their concerns that the falling ash will contaminate farmland.

Residents in Shetland have reported a ‘sulphur’ smell in the air and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency are examining ash samples.

Farmers in Iceland have already removed sheep from the ground and some have raised concern over possible fluoride poisoning.

However John Swinney, Scottish Government Finance Secretary, said there had been no indication that ash should cause alarm to farmers.

He added that the ash was ‘not poisonous and has the potential only to irritate those who may suffer from skin conditions or asthmatic conditions’.

Nevertheless, John Scott MSP has laid down a parliamentary question asking the Scottish Government for more reassurance.

“While the volcanic dust remains in the atmosphere it poses no threat to farming in Scotland.

“However, this dust may settle on Scottish soil or be brought to earth by precipitation and I have concerns for livestock eating contaminated grass, and crops uptaking minerals deposited on the land in an unbalanced way.

“That is why I am seeking clarification and reassurance on these matters as this dust cloud may have the potential to affect food production here in Scotland,” he said.

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