Your Property May Qualify to Be Tested for Lead Contamination

The Omaha lead site is the largest residential site in the United States, and it is contaminated by lead on earth. In 1998, the City of Omaha contacted the Environmental Protection Agency, the EPA, due to concerns about high lead levels in children’s blood. The EPA found that industrial emissions from lead smelting plants had contaminated thousands of yards in East Omaha, resulting in dangerous levels of lead in soil. This area was designated as having high levels of lead in the soil.

This area includes houses, apartments, daycares, parks, and schools. Many children are exposed to high levels of lead in soil, which increases their risk of lead poisoning and can cause physical, psychological, and cognitive development problems. The good news is that lead poisoning can be prevented.

Properties within the Omaha lead site qualify for free soil testing and remediation. Thousands of yards have been tested, cleaned, and declared safe for children. However, some homes within Omaha’s lead area have not yet been tested for lead in the soil. To have your land tested for lead, contact the City of Omaha to schedule an appointment.

They will collect 5-8 soil samples using garden shovels without damaging your grass. Even if there are no children living on your property, there may be children in the future. Call 402-731-3045 to schedule an appointment or visit Omahalead.org.