The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced that it will not be conducting soil sampling on private properties affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires, sparking worries about potential hazards from lingering contaminants. With the aftermath of the devastating wildfires raising questions about the spread of hazardous ash and its impact on the environment, communities are now focused on the long-term health effects and the importance of rebuilding safely.
Recent studies have highlighted the chemical alterations in soil caused by severe wildfires, impacting water quality, air pollution, and vegetation growth. Traditionally, federal and state agencies have tested soil post-wildfires to ensure contamination levels are within safe limits.
However, the decision by the Army Corps not to conduct soil sampling under its private property removal program has drawn criticism. While the ongoing cleanup efforts include removing contaminated ash and debris, as well as extracting the top six inches of soil in fire-affected areas, experts and health officials stress the need for additional testing to fully assess potential risks and address the extent of the problem.
Sanjay Mohanty, an expert in civil and environmental engineering at UCLA, pointed out the importance of measuring pollutant levels both before and after cleanup operations, citing past practices following major wildfires in California. While the excavation of the topsoil is considered a practical step to address immediate concerns, further testing is necessary to confirm the elimination of contaminants and to safeguard against potential risks, especially in areas prone to soil contamination and water runoff.
The decision by the Army Corps to prioritize the removal of surface hazards is seen as a proactive measure, but the call for comprehensive testing and data collection remains essential to ensure the safety and well-being of communities affected by the wildfires.
Following the Army Corps’ decision, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has stated that it has gathered information on various “post-fire air, soil, and water risk assessment activities carried out by different agencies and academic institutions.” The department also mentioned that the assessment plan is updated on a weekly basis, and the results will be shared with the public on its website as they become available.
In response to the magnitude of the disaster, the department emphasized the importance of conducting soil testing after debris cleanup, especially considering the significant amount of fire debris produced by the fires.
The Palisades and Eaton wildfires in Southern California have been fully contained after almost a month of burning. Lead has already been detected in street dust, and Los Angeles is facing unprecedented environmental challenges due to the toxic aftermath of the fires, including hazardous ash settling in residential areas and playgrounds.
Researchers from USC recently analyzed street dust in neighborhoods impacted by the Eaton Fire. Concerns have been raised about toxic heavy metals, such as lead, spreading throughout the region. Lead is commonly found in older buildings with lead-based paint, lead pipes, and lead-contaminated dust. Studies indicate that lead can persist in the soil and air.
The cleanup and recovery efforts in the affected areas are being led by the Army Corps in collaboration with state and local partners. State and local officials have highlighted the importance of the second phase of the operation in the recovery process.
While the rebuilding process is still in its early stages, officials are working diligently to expedite the debris removal process. Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass have issued executive orders to streamline recovery and rebuilding operations.
Residents have been encouraged to submit Right of Entry forms to allow the Army Corps to clear debris from private properties at no cost. So far, only a small percentage of residents have opted out of the program.
Source: USA TODAY
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