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Sampling of Residual Sediment in Flood Impacted Areas

Release Date: 05/11/2006
Contact Information: Dale Kemery, (202) 564-4355 / kemery.dale@epa.gov

(5/11/06) On May 10th, EPA posted results from a new phase of sediment sampling started in February 2006. These samples were taken in the flood-impacted areas of New Orleans and target public areas in the residential neighborhoods where people are returning to their homes. Samples collected in this phase were analyzed for polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, pesticides/PCBs, herbicides, diesel and oil range organic chemicals and metals. Results of the samples collected are being compared to Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) Risk Evaluation/Corrective Action (RECAP) Management Option 1 Standards for residential soils and for potential cancer-causing chemicals, concentrations that fall within EPA's cancer risk range. Where chemicals exceed EPA and LDEQ criteria, we will work together to determine next steps.

Sampling results by ZIP code for residual sediment in flood impacted areas: https://www.epa.gov/katrina/testresults/sediments/residual_zip.html