Investigating high levels of arsenic found in soils around West Anniston, Alabama and their impact on human health

CHED 1097

Nixon Mwebi, nmwebi@jsu.edu, David A. Steffy, Alfred C. Nichols, anichols@jsu.edu, and Bryan Delauney, jsu1827m@jsu.edu. Department of Physical and Earth Sciences, Jacksonville State University, 700 Pelham Road North, Jacksonville, AL 36265
Arsenic is ubiquitous mainly due to its past extensive use over 100 years as an essential ingredient in animal feeds, herbicides, pesticides, wood preservatives, semiconductors, alloys and even in smelting. Disposal of arsenic in the past was in many instances not done with impermeable linings to contain leaches; this poses potential exposure to the element through the air, food or water. Because of its known effects to human health, arsenic has been at the top of the EPA National Priority List and inorganic arsenic branded as a proven human carcinogen. It is therefore essential to monitor the arsenic disposal either from treated wood or other industrial uses. A 14-acre abandoned manufacturing site in west Anniston Alabama has been shown to have potential for high levels of arsenic. This study investigated potential leaching and movement the arsenic and its impact on the adjacent residential neighborhood.