Top: Property before debris removal. Bottom: Debris removal work completed (Photos – Anders Corey/Office of Kathryn Barger)
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has launched a free residential soil lead testing program for communities downwind of the Eaton Fire, following growing concerns about elevated lead levels detected in the area.
By News Desk
Prompted by a motion passed by the County Board of Supervisors on April 15, the program will be funded by up to $3 million from the County’s Lead Paint Hazard Mitigation Program. Soil samples taken after the fire by Roux Associates and independently confirmed by Caltech and the Los Angeles Times revealed the highest concentrations of lead contamination in neighborhoods situated downwind of the burn area.
The initiative, expected to run through December 2025, allows residents to collect their own soil samples using a self-collection kit provided by Public Health. Simple instructions will guide participants in safely gathering samples from their yards. Samples can be dropped off:
- Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, at the One Stop Permit Center – Public Health Table, located at 464 W. Woodbury Road, Suite 210, Altadena.
“Los Angeles County is committed to being responsive to the needs of our residents impacted by the Eaton Fire,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “We’re providing soil testing resources and support to ensure residents can make informed decisions about their health.”
Director of Public Health Dr. Barbara Ferrer emphasized the importance of the initiative. “This soil testing program for properties downwind of the Eaton Fire—where the highest lead levels were found—is meant to provide accurate, data-driven information for residents to make informed choices to protect their health.”
Certified labs contracted by the County will analyze the samples. Residents will receive their results by email within 7 to 10 business days, along with access to a dedicated webpage that explains the findings and offers health-based recommendations.
Approximately 26,000 homes in the most affected zones will be notified through mailed postcards, with additional door-to-door outreach conducted by Public Health staff.
Residents interested in participating can find more information at ph.lacounty.gov/eaton-soil-testing.
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