Photo courtesy of dr. alyssa shiel
Long known sources of lead contamination in older neighborhoods are from lead in paint, lead solder in plumbing, and lead remaining from the historical use of leaded gas in cars. Yet a recent a Oregon State University study led by principle investigator, Dr. Shiel, has identified another potential source of lead contamination in some Portland neighborhoods: lead sheathing on telephone cables. Unlike today’s plastic sheathed cables, cables installed from the late 1800’s to the 1950s were sheathed in lead. The recent OSU research showing higher levels of lead found under the lead sheathed telephone cables is suggesting that the lead is being leached from the old lead sheathed cables onto soil and other surfaces below the lines.
Join us for a special Speaker Series event, as Dr.Alyssa Shiel, shares about the important findings she and her team have made regarding higher levels of lead in older Portland neighborhoods. Learn what you can do to limit your exposure to lead if you find the lead sheathed cables overhead, including how can you reduce lead hazards in the garden.
Dr. Alyssa shiel
Dr. Shiel is an Association Professor, environmental geochemist at Oregon State University. She collaborates with other scientists, government agencies, and communities to reduce environmental levels of lead and other contaminants that threaten human and ecosystem health.
Register HERE in advance.
Free event. All welcome.
*Presentation counts as 1-hour metro area Master Gardener continuing education credit.