EPA Superfund site
OLD AMERICAN ZINC PLANT
Human exposure is NOT currently under control
Data limitations: Proximity to a Superfund site boundary does not mean your property is contaminated. EPA site boundaries show the area designated for cleanup, not the full extent of contamination. Groundwater plumes can extend beyond site boundaries. This tool shows publicly available EPA federal data. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by EPA, and is not a substitute for a professional environmental assessment.
About this site's exposure pathways
As of May 2026, EPA considers the Old American Zinc Plant Superfund site as "Current Human Exposure Not Under Control." Soil on some residential properties contains concentrations of lead, arsenic, cadmium, and zinc that exceed health-based levels. Additionally, surface soil at the Facility Area has lead and other metals at levels likely unacceptable for trespassers. The October 2025 lead directive lowered the target blood lead level, consequently reducing the lead cleanup threshold. Using the information provided in the lead directive as well as site specific information, the lead cleanup goal was calculated to 170 mg/kg. This change prompts a reevaluation of residential properties according to the new standard, and property access will be necessary for further remediation. It is estimated that over 200 properties will need to be re-evaluated. In the meantime, the Remedial Project Manager (RPM) is collaborating with the Community Involvement Coordinator (CIC) to distribute lead safety fact sheets to help the community reduce exposure risks. EPA began cleaning the surrounding area properties in summer 2019 and commenced cleanup at the Facility Area in spring 2024. The selected remedy involves excavating contaminated soils from residential yards, vacant lots, and alleyways, as well as removing contaminated materials from the Facility Area. These materials are consolidated onsite in a capped area at the Facility. EPA expects cleanup efforts to continue until the end of 2032, when human exposure is anticipated to be under control.