Can Erie residents be exposed to contamination if we grow and eat vegetables from residential gardens?

EPA will not know if there is contamination in residential yards until the soil samples are validated. Please keep in mind, current research recommends hand washing after play or contact with urban soils where concentrations of contaminants may be higher than soils in rural areas. In addition, all fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed prior to consumption. Additional information on how to safely use your yard for gardening can be found in this EPA Growing Gardens in Urban Soils Guide (PDF).