FEMA Defends L.A. Wildfire Cleanup Strategy Amid Soil-Testing Backlash
Federal Agency Stands by Decision to Not Test Soil After Debris Removal
In the face of mounting backlash from wildfire survivors and California elected officials, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is defending its decision to forgo soil testing after cleanup crews remove debris from properties that burned in the Los Angeles County fires.
No Testing Required, Says FEMA
According to FEMA, federal cleanup workers will remove toxic wildfire ash and rubble, along with a 6-inch layer of topsoil from properties. However, the agency will not order soil testing to confirm that properties are not still contaminated after the removal. Brandi Richard Thompson, a spokesperson for FEMA Region 9, which oversees disaster response in the southwestern U.S. and Pacific islands, stated that the agency’s cleanup strategy is "based on scientific best practices and FEMA’s longstanding policies."
Criticism from Public Officials and Survivors
The decision has sparked widespread outrage from public officials and fire survivors who fear the approach could leave behind hazardous levels of toxic substances. In response to The Times’ reporting, Gov. Gavin Newsom convened an emergency cabinet meeting to discuss the lack of soil sampling. However, his office has not provided any specifics about the governor’s stance toward the federal cleanup.
Concerns Over Contamination
Some officials have expressed concern that soil testing will only reveal pockets of contamination unrelated to the wildfires that will need to be remediated. However, Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Sherman Oaks) argued that this is not a valid concern, stating, "I don’t think residents care if it’s unsafe because of one thing or another. We want to know it’s safe."
Local Officials Weigh In
Mayor Karen Bass’ office echoed these sentiments, stating that the mayor will work with all partners at every level of government to ensure that Palisades residents can trust that their properties are safe from toxins. Rep. Judy Chu (D-Monterey Park) also expressed her concerns, stating, "The health and safety of my constituents are uppermost in my mind as we recover from the wildfires."
Private Testing and Rebuilding
Some wildfire survivors, like Kenneth Ehrlich, are considering opting out of the Army Corps-led cleanup program and instead seeking private contractors to perform soil testing. Ehrlich, a 26-year resident of Pacific Palisades, lost his home in the fire and is wary of rebuilding on land that may still be contaminated.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding FEMA’s decision to forgo soil testing has sparked a heated discussion about the importance of public health and safety in the aftermath of natural disasters. While FEMA defends its strategy as based on scientific best practices, many are left wondering if this approach is sufficient to ensure the long-term health and well-being of those affected by the wildfires.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of soil testing after wildfires?
Soil testing is intended to ensure that properties are remediated to state standards and do not contain dangerous levels of toxic substances. - Why is FEMA not conducting soil testing after debris removal?
FEMA has stated that its cleanup strategy is based on scientific best practices and its longstanding policies, which do not require soil testing. - What are the concerns about contamination?
Some officials and residents are worried that soil testing will only reveal pockets of contamination unrelated to the wildfires that will need to be remediated, while others are concerned that the lack of testing could leave behind hazardous levels of toxic substances. - What are the options for private testing and rebuilding?
Some residents, like Kenneth Ehrlich, are considering seeking private contractors to perform soil testing and may opt out of the Army Corps-led cleanup program.
