NDEP offering free, voluntary soil testing for homeowners in the Carson River Superfund Site

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection will begin to offer free soil testing for homeowners within the Carson River Superfund Site. Funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this program is voluntary and free-of-charge. The Carson River was designated a Superfund Site due to historic mining activity beginning in the 1800s. Over time, metals such as mercury, arsenic, and lead may have spread into areas currently used for single-family housing. Testing is expected to begin later this year, with the goal of providing residents with information about the levels of these metals in their yards. If the levels exceed established public health standards, NDEP and EPA will work with homeowners to discuss options for cleanup.