Changes Are Proposed for Lead Cleanup in Residential Soils in Butte
The EPA has completed a Proposed Plan outlining changes to the cleanup value, also called an “action level,” for lead in soil and interior dust in Butte. This Proposed Plan, which is open for public comment until February 14, 2025, describes a proposed expansion of the current BPSOU boundary and a reduction in the lead cleanup level in the community.
Overall, the plan proposes that:
- The cleanup level for residential soils and interior dust is reduced from 1,200 parts per million (ppm) lead to 175 ppm lead
- The current BPSOU boundary is expanded east by approximately 3,637 acres to include an additional 7,253 homes for required sampling and evaluation for cleanup
We encourage all residents and interested parties to read the document thoroughly and take part in the public comment period. Both written and oral comments will be accepted for the record at the public meeting on November 18, and written public comments can be accepted through the duration of the public comment period, including at office hours and the Open House on October 29.
Written comments can also be sent by email to (EPAButtePPcomments@epa.gov) or by standard mail to:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
ATTN: Butte Superfund Site Team
10 W 15th St, Suite 3200
Helena, MT
59626
Via email: Public comments must be emailed to (EPAButtePPComments@epa.gov) by 11:59 pm on Friday, February 14.
Via USPS/traditional mail: Public comments must be postmarked by Friday, 2/14.
To learn more about these changes, please join the EPA at upcoming events in Butte, including an Open House and Public Meeting. Please note that although verbal comments cannot be accepted at the Open House, written comments are welcomed. The formal Public Meeting is your opportunity to provide verbal public comments.
Open House
When: Tuesday, October 29, 2024, from 6-7:30 pm
Where: The Copper Lounge at Montana Tech (1300 W. Park St, Butte, MT)
Public Meeting
When: Monday, November 18, 2024, from 6-7:30 pm
Where: The Copper Lounge at Montana Tech (1300 W. Park St, Butte, MT)