Sustainable Lands
Brownfields Tribal Response Program
What is a Brownfield?
Brownfields are contaminated sites which could be targeted for cleanup and redevelopment. According to the EPA, a ‘brownfields site’ is defined as real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant.
Examples of Brownfields
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Old or illegal dumps
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Petroleum spills
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Abandoned or idle structures with lead paint, asbestos, or other hazardous materials
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Old fuel storage areas of former gas stations
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Mine scarred lands
Please note that this site is under construction because new sites are being added daily.
Examples of contaminants
Asbestos
Many buildings constructed before 1980 contain asbestos in old floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roof shingles, siding, and insulation. Asbestos can separate into microscopic-sized particles that remain in the air and are easily inhaled. Persons occupationally exposed to asbestos can develop several types of life-threatening diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
PCBs are a group of man-made organic chemicals consisting of carbon, hydrogen and chlorine atoms. Transformers, capacitors, oil in the motor and hydraulic systems, fluorescent light ballasts, oil-based paint, and plastics are a few examples of commercial uses of PCBs.
Lead
Lead is a naturally occurring element that can be toxic to humans and animals. It is mostly found in lead-based paint in buildings. While lead exposure is exceptionally harmful to all humans... newborns, infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pregnant women are particularly susceptible. Lead exposure can be extremely detrimental to the cardiovascular system, kidney function, reproduction (in men and women), red blood cell count, and the behavioral/developmental stages in life.
Petroleum
Petroleum is an organic compound formed from the remains of microorganisms. It is one of the three main fossil fuels along with coal and natural gas. Removing or treating soil contaminated by petroleum is imperative because the hydrocarbons will leach into the underlying groundwater and enter human residential areas, possibly impacting drinking water sources and wildlife.
Do you have a Brownfields Property?
Brownfields are pieces of land or property that are sitting abandoned or underutilized due to a presence or suspected presence of contamination. These are properties with a re-use goal that will benefit from the community.
A few ideas: a new water storage tank, a new boat launch, a green space.
YRITWC invites you to begin the process of re-use by applying for an Environmental Assessment Phase 1 (Research) and/or Phase 2 (Sampling).
Apply today!
Send Completed Applications to Jordan Finney at jfinney@yritwc.org
Or by fax to 1-907-258-3339
