It’s refreshing to have a company accept responsibility and
rectify a mistake without a tap dance or spin
There’s a right way to respond, and a wrong way. Christopher Ranch’s corporate response to the fact that a toxic spill emanating from the ranch emptied into Uvas Creek and killed thousands of fish is an example of the right way to respond.
The company, which has conducted business creekside for decades, handled the unfortunate incident in exactly the right way: Bill Christopher took responsibility, owned up to the company’s mistake and oversaw a solution. The offending valve which, when opened, allowed waste drainage to seep into Uvas Creek, will be rendered inoperable. No more fish will be dying as a result of garlic overdoses.
It’s unlikely an employee will own up to the mistake since that person’s job may be on the line.
Meanwhile, there are possible penalties in the future, both criminal and civil.
Hopefully, justice will be rendered with reason and perspective. Malice did not play a role in this incident. Christopher Ranch is a generous and positive corporate presence in this community and the company has been a good steward.
Comparing the incident to what’s been happening for years at Furtado Dairy, for example, draws a clear distinction between a business willing to own up and accept responsibility and one that is defiant in its passive refusal to take corrective action.
Perhaps an agreement in lieu of penalties can be reached whereby Christopher Ranch contributes financially to the program which is restoring steelhead trout to area waterways.
That would serve justice.
Thankfully, the recent rains have likely washed away the residue which polluted the creek. Nature has a way of cleaning up some of our messes. Also thankfully, this spill is relatively mild in nature compared to, say, perchlorate or something extremely toxic like benzine.
Area businesses should take note, however. If there are preventative measures that can be taken to ensure toxic waste doesn’t meet a waterway, do so. Taking a little time now to go over waste material plans is a prudent measure.
It’s not just about fish, it’s about being good stewards of precious gifts, the land and the water.
