As part of a 2006 Settlement Agreement with Teck, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is directing the Upper Columbia River Remedial Investigation and Feasibility Study. Its purpose is to establish the nature, extent, and possible human and ecological risks of metals and other contaminants released into the environment.
SOIL SAMPLING
EPA and Teck America, Incorporated (TAI) will conduct additional residential soil sampling in 2025. The upcoming sampling will help further define the boundaries of contamination and will provide residents the opportunity to have their properties sampled.
Additional residential sampling is needed to more accurately estimate the total number of properties that may be eligible for soil cleanup. Sampling is voluntary and will be offered to owners of residential properties that have not yet been sampled within the study area. See Figure 1.
Figure 1: 2025 Expanded Residential Soil Sampling Map
Upper Columbia River, Washington
Source: EPA
Following sampling, residents can expect to receive results that will help inform them about potential lead and arsenic soil concentrations on their properties and how they compare to risk-based screening levels. EPA will continue to evaluate options for early action, including cleanup, at properties with elevated contamination.
EPA anticipates sampling to begin in spring 2025. Signup sheets will be sent to eligible property owners beginning in February. Residents who are interested in having their property sampled are also encouraged to contact EPA directly (see box below).
Additional residential sampling and analysis will incorporate new guidance released by EPA in 2024 regarding the residential soil lead regional screening level and the regional removal management level to be used at superfund sites. Click here for more information.
Specific cleanup levels will not be determined until EPA’s Proposed Plan and following a Record of Decision.
EPA also anticipates sampling additional non-residential upland areas in 2025 to support their ecological risk assessment.
Interested in having your property sampled in Spring 2025?
Contact Robert Tan
EPA Project Manager
Email Tan.robert@epa.gov
or call (206) 553-2580.
RIVER ASSESSMENT
The Draft Aquatic Baseline Ecological Risk Assessment evaluates risk to plants, wildlife, fish, and other organisms in and along the Columbia River from the U.S. – Canada Border to Grand Coulee Dam.
Teck submitted the Draft Aquatic BERA in April and received comments from EPA in December 2024. EPA and TAI are discussing EPA’s extensive comments in January/February.
LEARN MORE
For summaries of studies and human health assessments completed, click here for Forum Public Guides and more information. Click here for EPA’s summary information.
