Fort Bragg will begin soil sampling this month to assess potential lead levels in the ground around select housing neighborhoods on the installation.
The upcoming soil testing follows recent dialogue between the Army and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding follow-on testing and analysis of the results of a 1993 soil study in neighborhoods. There is no recent indication or evidence of increased risk or exposure to the Fort Bragg community.
The soil sampling will focus on neighborhoods with homes built before 1978, and installation leadership will provide testing details to families in these housing areas. The Army is working closely with the Fort Bragg Housing provider to ensure timely and accurate testing and communication of results.
“The safety and well-being of our residents is our top priority,” said Col. Chad Mixon, Fort Bragg garrison commander in a press release. “Fort Bragg consistently meets or exceeds all environmental safety standards, and we are committed to maintaining a healthy living environment for our families. We are dedicated to transparency and will keep our families informed throughout the testing process.
“Our first obligation is to the Soldiers and Families who serve our nation, and ensuring their right to safe, clean, and healthy homes,” said Mixon. “When the EPA brought this issue to our attention, we immediately began planning new testing. We will continue to act with urgency and transparency as we move forward.”
Families seeking more information about the upcoming soil test can connect with their local Corvias Community Center.
Feature photo by Sandhills Sentinel photographer Wendy Hodges.
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