At its worst, some say, stray voltage cripples, maims or even kills cows and other animals. Many think what happens to cows also happens to humans. No specific research has been done, but the debate is heated, and mounting evidence points to a possible link between stray voltage and human health. Dr. Henry Anderson, chief medical officer for Occupational and Environmental Health in Wisconsin, said he is not aware of any specific studies looking at stray voltage and its effect on humans. But a review of public and private documents and dozens of interviews with farmers, medical experts, state and utility officials, shows Wisconsin farmers have complained about fatigue, aches and even more serious ailments for years.
Some farmers say their health already has been damaged.
Carol and Mike Gunner's dream of a family farm ended in April 1996. The Gunners bought a farm in Clark County near Granton in the fall of 1995, lured by a state program recruiting farmers. Chris Hardie of the Tribune Staff Mike and Carol Gunner stand in front of their Idaho cabin. Carol said a strong spike of electricity traveling through the ground knocked her off her feet. She was barefoot.