FLIN FLON - A commitment to take action on cleaning up metals in the soil of 10 Flin Flon parks was made here today by Premier Gary Doer.

 

“Our initial efforts are going to focus on two sites with the highest levels of metals,” said Doer. “Once we have addressed these areas, we will act on the remaining eight sites in Flin Flon.”

 

Ten parks with active playgrounds have been identified by the province for soil enhancement work. This fall, improvement work that will add soil and sod will begin with the North Avenue and Foster parks. A landscape specialist is already on-site preparing plans for the soil improvements.

 

After soil improvements have been completed, each site will meet standards for soil and sod application. In addition to reducing potential exposure to metals at these sites, soil and sod improvements will also contribute to improved greening of the community.

 

A study of metals and other elements in soils at various publicly accessible areas of Flin Flon found that levels of arsenic, cadmium, copper, mercury and lead at a number of sites exceeded soil quality guidelines as established by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment.

 

Although a preliminary review of the study results suggested the risk to human health is most likely low, the work now being undertaken is a precautionary measure to protect young children using the parks.  The findings from a scientific human health risk assessment, which is currently underway, will determine what additional measures, if any, may be required.

 

Doer noted the province will immediately invest up to $150,000 this year for work on the two sites with the highest levels of metals. Work on the remaining eight parks is expected to begin in the spring of 2009.

 

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