2025-04-20
Make sure your soil is healthy Two upcoming soil testing events will offer free soil tests for all residents under the flight path. These events, hosted by the Washington Department of Ecology, will let you check whether soil in your yard has traces of historic chemical contamination from the Asarco Smelter. Background Arsenic and lead
Tacoma Smelter Plume.Arsenic and lead levels are considered to be of concern, not an emergency.
2022-08-24
This Washington State University Cooperative Extension factsheet explains the risks of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic in garden soils, with a focus on the greater Seattle-Tacoma region. It identifies locations most likely to have contamination, including sites near old painted buildings, heavily traveled roads, and areas affected by the former Tacoma smelter. The factsheet offers practical gardening tips to reduce exposure, such as growing fruiting crops, adding organic matter, liming soil, and washing produce thoroughly.
2022-08-07
Close-up photograph of Port Package problem 0812: Severely deteriorated and rotted wood framing or sill plate at the base of a structure. The wood exhibits extensive decay with fragmented, crumbling pieces scattered around the affected area. PVC pipe and painted wood trim elements are also visible in the image.
15001 Des Moines Memorial Dr Burien, King County Lora Lake Apartments Cleanup Update – February 2022 Facility Site ID: 1880040 Cleanup Site ID: 2008 Cleanup completed in January 2020. Ecology finalized the Lora Lake Apartments Site Construction As-Built Report in January 2021. The cleanup work was conducted over two construction seasons: April to December 2017,
2001-08-01
This 2001 User's Guide from the Washington State Department of Ecology explains how to use spreadsheet workbook tools (MTCASGL and MTCATPH) to calculate soil and groundwater cleanup levels under the Model Toxics Control Act. The guide covers how to enter site-specific data—such as chemical properties, exposure parameters, and hydrogeological characteristics—to determine safe contamination thresholds. It is intended for environmental cleanup professionals working on hazardous substance remediation in Washington State.
1999-10-24
This Washington State University Extension bulletin explains how lead and arsenic can contaminate home garden soils through historical sources such as lead-based paint, leaded gasoline, and arsenical pesticides, and why this poses health risks especially for children. It provides guidance on identifying contaminated soils through chemical testing and offers practical steps gardeners can take to reduce their exposure to these toxic elements.
2025-04-20
2022-08-24
2022-08-07
2001-08-01
1999-10-24