EPA R7 is conducting a Time-Critical Removal Action at the
Oronogo-Duenweg Mining Belt site (Site) near Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri, starting
in June 2024. This response action will address up to thirty (30) residential
properties referred to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency by the Missouri
Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS). An assessment of these
properties performed by the EPA Remedial Program in FY2023 identified elevated lead soil concentrations
and confirmed the presence of sensitive populations.
The Site is divided into five Operable Units (OUs) for
cleanup activities. The Time-Critical Removal Action will take place administratively
within OU3 of the Site. The objective of this removal action is to reduce the
risk and/or prevent the exposure of sensitive populations through inhalation,
dermal contact, and/or ingestion to lead and/or other heavy metals present in
the soil at the Site. The removal / risk reduction actions will involve the
excavation and removal of lead-contaminated soil exceeding the RML of 200
mg/kg, and outreach activities (education and EBL testing) conducted by the local
health department.
