PUSD building (Photo – ColoradoBlvd.net)
The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) announced they are working together to oversee soil cleanup and campus restoration efforts following the Eaton Fire, including the removal of certain trees located within contaminated soil excavation areas.
By News Desk
District officials said both agencies recognize the importance of trees across PUSD campuses, but emphasized that the safety of students, staff, and the community remains the top priority. With more than 5,000 trees districtwide, officials said removal decisions were made carefully and apply only to trees located within areas requiring contaminated soil removal.
According to PUSD, the district spent the past year working closely with DTSC to address soil contamination at 11 affected sites. The effort included evaluating more than 600 soil samples and conducting detailed reviews of identified contaminants. Officials said site-specific assessments examined multiple remediation options.
After months of consultation, PUSD concluded that removing selected trees within affected areas was the safest and most effective approach to complete cleanup efforts and accelerate the reopening of schools. DTSC approved the plan, describing it as a health-protective strategy.
Cleanup activities are being conducted under South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1466 and include dust suppression measures to prevent offsite emissions, perimeter air monitoring, and the proper handling, containment, and transportation of impacted soil. The work must also comply with California Environmental Protection Agency and DTSC requirements.
Officials said DTSC will conduct site visits throughout the cleanup process. Environmental contractors and consultants working on the project are required to follow established health and safety protocols during remediation activities.
PUSD and DTSC said removing fire-related contaminants from soil and affected areas is the most effective way to protect students, staff, and nearby residents from both immediate and long-term health risks associated with the Eaton Fire.
Following the cleanup, district officials said they plan to restore campus landscapes. PUSD said it is committed to replanting trees removed during remediation and is working with the City of Pasadena and certified arborists to develop long-term restoration plans that preserve shade, aesthetics, and gathering spaces for school communities.
The district said its ongoing collaboration with DTSC is focused on ensuring all campuses are safe, healthy, and ready to welcome students, staff, and community members.
PUSD encouraged residents seeking additional information about safety protocols, site-specific timelines, and frequently asked questions to visit the district’s restoration website.
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