Department of
Environmental Quality

The Basin Property Remediation Program (BPRP) is administered by DEQ. DEQ removes contaminated soil from properties to address the human health component of the cleanup. This remedy was determined in EPA’s cleanup plan, the 2002 Record of Decision (ROD).

How Contamination is Addressed

Cleanup at the site includes the removal of "contaminated soil" in places where humans are frequently exposed, such as yards, parks, and public properties. Cleanup also includes rehabilitation of mine and mill sites, railroad rights of way, places where people recreate, and where the site affects drinking water or fisheries. Remediation does not preclude development from occurring; rather it aims to create safer places to live, recreate, and work.

Typical Yard Remediation

Sample: Every year, DEQ consultants request permission to collect soil samples.

Test: Soil samples are lab-tested for lead and arsenic to determine if soil remediation is necessary.

Follow-Up: If soil is known to be contaminated, then DEQ will notify the landowner. DEQ will review the proposed work with the landowner before construction begins.

Remedial Action: Generally, contaminated soil is removed to a depth between 6 to 12 inches and then taken to a repository for soil with contaminated waste. Topsoil or gravel is then placed. If contaminated soil exists deeper than the excavation, a barrier cloth is laid down to indicate where contaminated soil has been left underneath. Sod or grass seed will then be placed on bare soil areas.

Support: DEQ employees continue to work with property owners for 45 days after the property is cleaned up to ensure that the sod or grass seed is growing. There is a one-year warranty on vegetation and a two-year warranty for drainage. DEQ also works with landowners on complaints.

After cleanup, the Panhandle Health District (PHD) helps property owners manage the clean barrier through the Institutional Controls Program (ICP). The ICP is a free permitting program for excavation activities that provides access to disposal repositories. PHD consults with homeowners about managing ways to control lead exposure in the indoor home environment, too.

Did you know?
Residential property cleanup began in a 21 square mile populated area called the Bunker Hill Box in 1986. Today, properties in the Bunker Hill Box are certified complete.