Barger’s Motion Launches Public Health Soil Testing for Eaton Fire Impacted Residents
As a result of Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s motion at the April 15 Board of Supervisors meeting, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health just released a soil lead testing program for residents impacted by the Eaton Fire to receive testing results in as little as a week.
“Los Angeles County is committed to being responsive to the needs of our residents impacted by the Eaton Fire, which is why we’re providing timely soil testing resources and support to ensure residents can make informed decisions about their health,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “This soil testing program is free, convenient, and will provide residents accurate information about the environmental health of their soil.”
The program uses a self-collection model. The Department of Public Health will provide residents with simple, clear instructions on how to collect soil samples from their own yards. Residents will then drop off their sample at the One Stop Permit Center’s Public Health table at 464 W. Woodbury Road, Suite 210, Altadena, CA 91001, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The samples will be picked up by certified laboratories contracted by the County. Residents will receive results by email within 7 to 10 business days. A dedicated webpage will help residents interpret results and offer guidance on next steps.
The Department of Public Health will redirect up to $3 million from the County’s Lead Paint Hazard Mitigation Program for the soil testing program. The program is expected to run through the end of the year.
The Department of Public Health will conduct targeted door-to-door outreach about the program and will mail postcards to approximately 26,000 homes where there are the highest levels of lead soil concentrations.
Residents can visit ph.lacounty.gov/eaton-soil-testing for more information.
