b§z) West Lake Update June 3,2014 -L EPA Completes Radiation Screening at BMAC Radiation ex- perts from EPA Region 7 and Region 5 worked from morn- ing to night the week of May 19 to complete a comprehensive radiation screening of the 70-acre Bridgeton Munici- pal Athletic Complex (BMAC). Combining a Global Positioning System (GPS)-linked radiation detector with soil sampling, this screening will provide the community with the definitive, scientifically-backed results to better understand the conditions at BMAC. The EPA screening of BMAC resulted in the col- lection of data from 60,000 points along 45 miles of transecting lines. Three field survey teams worked in concert transecting the entire complex. Using GPS and radiation detection instruments, the teams screened for gamma radiation and also collected more than 100 soil samples for laboratory testing for thorium, radium and uranium. The teams also collected samples for laboratory analysis at the locations where citizens previously col- lected soil for their own tests at BMAC. The teams conducted radiation background ref- erence screening and soil sampling at two parks (Blanchette and Koch), which are located about four miles from BMAC. Establishing background levels is important because radiation occurs naturally in our environment. The background levels will serve as benchmarks in comparison to the radiation levels at BMAC in determining if any readings there would be considered above background level that would be expected in that geographic area. The soil samples and preliminary screening results are currently undergoing an extensive quality control, quality assurance (QA/QC) procedure to ensure the accuracy and validity of the data. Once the QA/QC review is complete, EPA will make the results available to the public on its website and via social and tradi- tional media. At this time, EPA reiterates its previously stated position that the ball fields remain suitable for use and encourages the community to continue to enjoy the facilities at BMAC. Environmental Justice an Important Part of the West Lake Team The Environmental Justice program at EPA Region 7 is an important part of the West Lake team. Envi- ronmental Justice is the fair treatment and meaning- ful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the develop- ment, implementation, and enforcement of environ- mental laws, regulations, and policies. Karim Dawani is EPA Region 7's Environmental Justice representative for the West Lake Landfill Site. This year marks the 20th anniversary of EPA's Envi- ronmental Justice program. Environmental Justice is an EPA goal for all communities and persons across the nation. It will be achieved when everyone enjoys the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards and equal access to the decision-mak- ing process to have a healthy environment in which to live, learn, and work. Meet Karim Dawani Karim Dawani joined EPA Region 7 in 2010 as a Program Analyst and Grants Manager. Cur- rently, he serves as an Environmental Justice Outreach Coordinator. At the West Lake Land- fill Site, Karim works to ensure that the diverse communities near the site are treated equally by the Agency. Among his other responsibilities, Karim also pro- motes Healthy Homes, lead safety, and other topics relevant to communities in Region 7. Karim is a veteran of the United States Army, having served 1996 to 2000. Community Inquiries Ben Washburn 913-551-7364 Washburn. Ben@ep a.gov Find Us On www.facebook.com/eparegion7 www.twitter.com/ep aregion7 www.scribd.com/eparegion7 www.epa.gov/region7/cleanup/west_lake_landfill ------- |