Superfund Straight Talk April 2013

Answering Citizens’ Questions about the Coeur d’Alene River Basin Cleanup

Q: How do I get rid of weeds in my yard? My property was remediated, so will DEQ help me?

A: It is unusual for weeds to become excessive within the 45-day warranty provided by remediation contractors. If this occurs, we will want to look into it. DEQ is committed to limiting the introduction of new noxious weeds. DEQ’s Jan Olsen responds to questions about property soil cleanup. She can be reached at 783-5781. After 11 years of remediation in the CDA River Basin, Jan has observed that weed control is generally successful if yards are properly watered, weeded, and fertilized.

If the concern comes in after the 45-day warranty period, DEQ can at least point the homeowner in the right direction for help. Great sources for helpful advice are the Shoshone County Weeds Office at 753-5475 and Kootenai County Noxious Weeds at 446-1290.

Q: Soil on my property was high in lead, so it was remediated last year. This spring, I noticed low spots in the soil. Can DEQ help me?

A: Yes. If water is shedding the wrong way after construction, we might be able to apply the two-year drainage warranty. Either we will be able to help directly or we will suggest someone who can.

Q: The soil on my property hardened after remediation. Can anything be done?

A: Imported soil can harden by the time it is placed in the homeowner’s yard. Air pockets can be squeezed out and the soil compressed during the process of importing it from the Rathdrum Prairie. DEQ has investigated this problem and improved our construction practices and soil product. We encourage you to keep up with your lawn care. Aerate lawns or till garden areas as needed. The University of Idaho Extension Office in Coeur d’Alene can offer tips for gardening, composting, and soil health. Call 446-1680.

I welcome your questions about the Bunker Hill Superfund Site. Call Denna Grangaard at (208) 783-5781 or click on “Ask Us” www.deq.idaho.gov/bunkerhillsuperfundsite.