News Water Issues
Tests confirm contaminant amounts in Hamilton park’s soil exceed standards

Evidence of of mercury, zinc, cadmium and lead have been found in soil samples taken from Hamilton’s Centennial Heights Park in preparation for a park upgrade project.

The amounts are said to be above provincial standards but pose little risk to public health, according to the city.

Consultant Terraprobe reported the test results on Aug.9. A second test conducted a week later confirmed the results exceeded standards for mercury, zinc, lead and cadmium.

At this time, on the counsel of the consultant’s Qualified Professional, Public Health Services and Hamilton Water staff, the general consensus is that that the condition of the park poses little risk to public health, as contaminants within the soil are not readily available, nor likely to move through the landscape. City staff have informed the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) of the soil quality.

Based on historical data, the city has determined that this site has remained untouched since at least 1995 and routine water monitoring of nearby municipal wells continues to show zero detection of contaminants. While private wells are the responsibility of the property owner, as always, the city reminds residents who own private wells to routinely check the water quality of their wells. The city has not detected contaminants in nearby city wells or have received reports from private property owners of contaminant findings.

The city will continue to keep the public and MECP updated on measures taken to address contaminated soil on the property and will inform residents if it is determined that they should take any necessary precautions. At this time, the city is not advising residents to take such action.

A project webpage with details regarding the construction and investigative work can be found by visiting www.hamilton.ca/CentennialHeights.