United States Environmental Protection Agency
Region III
POLLUTION REPORT

Subject: 

The Site is a former orchard area that has had residential development.  Prior to an EPA ban in 1972, a variety of pesticides including lead-arsenates and DDT compounds were applied.

EPA conducted a removal action at one property at the Crozet Arsenic Site in Crozet, Virginia.  Historical sampling indicated that additional properties may need removal work.  

To date, twelve properties have had removal work due to arsenic concentrations above 58 mg/kg.

One property continues to have removal work done.  Phytoremediation is being used to remove the arsenic contamination.

EPA received and reviewed results of the November sampling event.  

8 additional plots had arsenic concentrations below the action level of 58 mg/kg in soil.  These plots will need no further treatment and will be restored in the springtime.

The remaining 5 plots still had eleveated levels of arsenic and did not demonstrate significant reductions over the last two growing seasons.  These plots also showed elevated levels of lead (500-600 mg/kg range).  While not concrete evidence, it seems the lead may be impeding the uptake of the arsenic into the ferns.  

EPA will re-evaluate the results after consultation with phytoremediation experts.

EPA will evaluate the results of the 5 remaining plots and if necessary, author an additional decision document (Action Memorandum) to address the situation.