What effect did the opening of the Belsum Chemical Plant have on the town of Bourne in the book, One Two Three: A Novel?

Bourne was a typical small town when the Templeton family opened the Belsum Chemical Plant. The plant brought the promise of good jobs and growth for the town, and most of the residents welcomed the opportunity. However, the river soon turned green, and people and animals developed health problems. By the time the plant was forced to close, many of the residents had died, including Nora's husband. Many others had terrible health issues, and the children were born with all sorts of deficits.