SA: Heavy metals found in soil at West Lakes

AAP General News (Australia)
08-25-2000
SA: Heavy metals found in soil at West Lakes

ADELAIDE, Aug 25 AAP - Raised levels of heavy metals have been found in soil in the
Adelaide suburb of West Lakes.

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) said sampling had found 18 sites with
slightly raised concentrations of some heavy metals.

Following routine investigations by a local council, the EPA discovered sewage sludge
from the Port Adelaide Wastewater Treatment Plant was distributed across some areas of
the West Lakes development nearly 30 years ago.

Chemical analysis of the sludge revealed it contained cadmium.

EPA chairman Stephen Walsh said the Department of Human Services had advised there
was no immediate risk to health.

"There may be concerns from the possible long-term uptake of cadmium through fruit
and vegetables or poultry produce grown on the site but, given the nature of the residential
development at West Lakes, the concern is likely to be small," Mr Walsh said.

The EPA would conduct further investigations.

AAP vm/apm

KEYWORD: SLUDGE

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