KING COUNTY, WA - Today, Public Health - Seattle & King County released the completed analysis of arsenic and lead test results performed on undisturbed soil samples taken from points across Vashon-Maury Island and at select sites on the southern coastline of mainland King County. In April, Public Health identified elevated levels of arsenic and lead in soil at these sites.

In the final analysis, the findings remained consistent with preliminary findings. The final report provides the technical explanation and support for the previously released findings.

"This report sets in motion the next steps in the investigation and response effort," said Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County. "Public Health remains committed to working cooperatively with the affected communities and local and state government agencies to address concerns of potential health risks in the affected areas."

King County Executive Ron Sims pledged to continue keeping the information flowing to residents of the affected areas, to ensure that all public health needs and concerns are addressed.

For 95 years, a copper smelter operated in Ruston, just south of Vashon and Maury Islands. Because of wind patterns, some of the smelter's emissions were carried northward to these islands as well as parts of the coastal mainland in King County. The smelter was closed in 1986.

This soil study was carried out by Public Health with grant funds from the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology), which now has been identified as the lead for remediation efforts. The final report as well as an updated report summary and health information can be found at the Public Health Web Site at http://www.metrokc.gov/health/hazard/soilsamples.htm.

As part of this on-going cooperative effort, Public Health has received additional grant funding from Ecology in the amount of $1.5 million. These funds will allow Public Health to continue investigating the extent of arsenic and lead contamination in soils on Vashon and Maury Islands as well as at some sites on the King County mainland.

A first priority is to fully assess areas commonly used by children, such as school yards. Besides assessment of child use areas, Public Health will also use the grant to:

• Conduct additional soil sampling on mainland King County;
• Undertake human epidemiological studies related to possible exposure to contaminated soils; and
• Carry out public involvement and outreach efforts surrounding remediation decisions.

On July 27, Ecology will conduct an open house regarding soil contamination issues on Vashon and Maury Islands. The event will be held at McMurray Middle School, 9329 Cemetery Road, on Vashon Island from 6 - 10 PM, with a presentation at 7 PM.

The meeting will include an overview regarding how Ecology and Public Health are working together to address remediation decisions, outline accomplishments to date, and explain the next steps to be taken. The open house will provide opportunities for people to ask questions and give input regarding the remediation decisions.

For more information about the meeting, the public should contact Dawn Hooper, Washington State Department of Ecology Toxics Cleanup Program, at (360) 407-7182 or dhoo461@ecy.wa.gov.