February 2016 Soil and Sediment Sample Results

Sediment and soil samples were taken the week of February 1, 2016, around Pineville Soccer Park, Hunter Park and Rapides Training Academy for potential contaminants.

The results show the tributary to the Chatlin Lake Canal as a potential area of concern. The area borders Hunter Park and DU-02. EPA sampling results for the canal sediments show benzo(a)pyrene to be at concentrations that are above residential screening standards. EPA and Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) are working with the responsible party to determine the path forward. We are also requesting the responsible party take additional sampling at DU-02 to ensure accurate results.

The analytical data results indicated that the Pineville Soccer Park did not have any areas of concern or need additional sampling.

EPA also reviewed the analytical data from the Rapides Training Academy (RTA) and identified specific areas of concern at the playground. Two areas had elevated levels of benzo(a)pyrene at concentrations that are above residential screening standards – which means we should take action to address the concern. In addition, there were levels of pentachlorophenol that were below the residential screening standard, but the presence of pentachlorophenol raised the issue that dioxin may be present in the soils.

June 2016 Rapides Training Academy Soil and Air Sampling Results

Soil and air samples were taken by EPA at the Rapides Training Academy playground area in June 2016 as part of the on-going assessment of the property.  Validated soil results were received on August 3, 2016.  Dioxin levels in the playground soil ranged from 133 – 240 parts per trillion.  Since then, EPA has completed a streamlined risk assessment for the property and determined the use of the residential soil screening level of 50 parts per trillion is appropriate. Ambient air concentrations of naphthalene are potentially higher than EPA's long-term screening values, but below the state regulatory standard. 

September 2016 Rapides Training Academy Indoor Dust Wipe Sampling

Indoor dust wipe samples were taken by EPA in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and the Louisiana Department of Health at the Rapides Training Academy on non-porous surfaces in likely areas where students or staff had contact. The samples were analyzed for semi-volatile compounds (SVOC) and dioxins. The SVOC and dioxin sample results did not exceed the non-cancer screening level or the cancer risk range used by the EPA. No additional action is necessary. Below are summaries of the June and September sampling results.

EPA and LDEQ are working closely with state, local and school officials to quickly determine next steps.

(Back to: Making a Visible Difference in Alexandria/Pineville, LA)

• February 2016 Alexandria/Pineville, LA Sediment and Soil Sampling Results (PDF)(12 pp, 2 MB, February 12, 2016)
• June 2016 Rapides Training Academy Soil and Air Sampling Results (PDF)(6 pp, 818 K, September 22, 2016)
• September 2016 Rapides Training Academy Dust Wipe Sampling Results (PDF)(4 pp, 3 MB, October 13, 2016)