New soil tests have shown that abnormally increased lead levels are still a problem in Winnipeg.
More than 100 soil samples were taken by the provincial government for analysis. The result is not encouraging, lead infection is still present in the city. The highest levels of lead were observed in soils of North Point Douglas and Weston School.
This testing was conducted after the hidden report about lead content in city soil made 10 years ago unexpectedly became public. As it became known, this report was hidden by the government of that period. A preliminary analysis report showed that the level of lead in the soil remained almost unchanged for 10 years: it significantly exceeded the norm then and now. All four buildings that were tested 10 years ago have indicators higher than acceptable both then and 10 years later.
The acceptable lead level is 140 parts per million. One soil sample showed 2,240 ppm on Angus Street near Sutherland Avenue in Point Douglas. Another soil sample showed 815 ppm at Weston School sport field.
It is expected that official soil sample test results will be available this week. Locations and other study details will also be available.
At the moment, there is no accurate data on new locations with elevated lead levels, the minister only confirmed that many of the data coincided with a hidden report.
The Public Health Department of Manitoba will provide all necessary information to city residents after the results of the test are released. Knowing this information, the inhabitants of the city will be able to protect themselves and their loved ones.
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