Goodland resident concerned about “ecological destruction”

Editor’s note: Jeff Sklar is a resident of Goodland Township and also the township blight officer. He, and others, are reporting what he believes could be intentional poisoning of trees on private property. If others are experiencing similar activity, they are asked to contact the authorities.

I want to bring awareness to the ecological destruction situation done to multiple residents of Goodland Township. Multiple township residents appear to be the victims of a tree poisoner.

The poison (not yet identified), was thrown down around trees back on Nov. 12, 2024.

It was of a white granular substance, as a sample was taken in a sandwich baggie to show to several nurseries in the area for inquiry.

But, unbeknownst to other residents, it was noticed by other residents in June-July of 2025, that their trees were dying just like mine.

Not only that, but so was the grass, and then it seeped into farmers fields, and definitely into drainage ditches traveling in the waterways and onto fields.

These crops feed the livestock of surrounding animals such as cattle, horses, sheep, chickens, ducks, etc.

There is the possibility of poisoning the drinking water of the residents. Could that substance seep into the water table?

How could this effect our health?

Then our livestock who drink from the wells and ponds, could they get sick as well?

Runoff from around the trees is killing the vegetation in its path.

There are multiple agencies doing the investigation refer to the herbicide that was applied. Soil samples for herbicide testing are in progress and forthcoming by the multiple agencies.

Experts, thus far, have verified this appears to be the application of a herbicide.

Law enforcement and state agencies have been made aware of the situation and are investigating.

If any residents notice unusual areas where their trees or grass are dying, not due to mother nature, contact Sheriff Deputy Larry Kardell, at lkardell@lapeercounty.org.

— Jeff Sklar
Goodland Twp.