Contact Superfund, Pacific Southwest
Pacific Southwest, Region 9
Serving: Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Pacific Islands, Tribal Nations
Addressing Uranium Contamination
in the Navajo Nation
Contaminated Structures
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EPA is concerned that structures, including homes, hogans and storage buildings may have been constructed of contaminated materials from nearby mines. Building material sources may include rocks from the mine and aggregate from mine spoils which may have been used in concrete mixing. Structures may also be contaminated by the presence of radiological materials in outdoor soils and dust that may have been brought into the homes on shoes and clothing.
Since 2008, EPA has completed demolition and necessary excavations of 34 structures and 12 residential yards. In addition, EPA has completed the construction of 14 new homes, and some families were provided compensation for their demolished structures. In 2012 EPA will remediate more than ten additional contaminated structures.
EPA and Navajo Nation EPA have worked together to identify all the structures that should be assessed. Together we have assessed a total of 683 structures to date and continue to refer structures for more assessment and remediation. The Five-Year Plan anticipates assessing at least 500 structures at a rate of approximately 100 per year. Residents will be notified of the results and possible remedial solutions if any are warranted. Superfund authority will be used to perform any remediation.
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