Julia Dolan

Toxic Metal Remediation Priority

Click the map for more detail.

Priority Areas for Soil Remediation

This analysis utilized the results of soil testing within Pierce County as well as US Census data. Soil samples were tested for lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) at 277 locations throughout the county. The Kriging method was used to interpolate levels of Pb and As between the sample sites and concentrations were symbolized on the map. US Census data was obtained and used to determine the density of children under ten years old throughout the county. The three raster layers, (lead concentration, arsenic concentration, and density of young children) were overlaid on the map. The raster calculator was used to determine areas where the highest and lowest levels of metal contamination and children coincide within the county. The areas with the highest levels of all three variables would potentially be priority locations for soil remediation in Pierce County.

February 2015