Hidden Threats: Understanding the Health Risks from Avon Lake’s Contaminated Coal Yard
What contaminates were detected in the coal yard soil? What are the health risks?
Avon Lake Regional Water Purchased the Power Plant Coal Yard for $3.2 million
For nearly a century, an 800-yard stretch of coal sat uncovered at Avon Lake’s coal yard. Now, Avon Lake Regional Water (ALRW) has purchased this property for $3.2 million, and it’s clear that the environmental fallout of this purchase could have serious implications for our community's health.
Although the Avon Lake City Council approved the purchase in March 2024, there was one critical stipulation: a 90-day due diligence period during which ALRW was to present a detailed environmental evaluation of the property. Despite repeated requests from Council, ALRW never presented the environmental report as agreed. The report was released to Avon Lake City Council members ONLY AFTER the coal yard purchase was completed.
Once the report was finally revealed, it confirmed what many suspected: the coal yard’s soil samples revealed contaminants—ranging from cancer-causing chemicals like benzene and PAHs to heavy metals like lead. Avon Lake Regional Water’s decision to move forward with the purchase, without fully disclosing these environmental concerns to the city council, is alarming to say the least.
https://chroniclet.com/news/401721/councilman-continues-to-raise-concerns-over-avon-lake-regional-waters-purchase-of-coal-yard/
If coal is stored outside on the ground and uncovered what’s the big deal?
When uncovered coal is stored directly on soil, several processes can lead to contaminants entering the soil beneath it:
1. Leaching of Chemicals
Coal contains various heavy metals and toxic compounds, such as arsenic, lead, mercury, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and many others. When it rains, water passes through the coal pile, dissolving these chemicals and carrying them into the soil in a process known as leaching. Over time, rainwater or groundwater running through the coal, pulls these toxic substances deeper into the soil layers, contaminating the groundwater and nearby ecosystems.
2. Erosion and Surface Runoff
Uncovered coal is also subject to wind erosion and surface runoff during rainstorms. As rainwater runs over the surface of the coal pile, it picks up contaminants and transports them away from the pile, often depositing them into nearby soils or waterways. Wind can pickup coal particulates called coal fines and carry them long distances. Wind and runoff can spread contamination beyond the immediate area of the coal yard, affecting larger soil and water systems.
3. Direct Contact with Soil
When coal sits directly on the ground without a protective barrier, physical contact alone can allow contaminants to transfer into the soil. Over time, the weight and pressure of the coal can also crush some particles, breaking them down into finer components that mix with the soil.
“If I just stay away from the coal yard it can’t hurt me.”
Even if you never set foot on the coal yard property, you can still be impacted by the contaminants due to several pathways through which pollutants can travel and spread. Let’s talk about how:
1. Airborne Dust and Vaporization
Contaminants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can become airborne. These hazardous compounds, including benzene and benzo(a)pyrene, can attach to dust particles and be carried by the wind. Inhaling these particles can lead to respiratory issues, and prolonged exposure increases the risk of cancer.
2. Water Contamination
Rainwater can wash contaminants like lead, mercury, arsenic, and other heavy metals into the groundwater or nearby water sources, eventually making its way into the local water supply. Even if Avon Lake's water treatment system catches most contaminants, residents using the lake could still be exposed. Additionally, pollutants that leach into Lake Erie could affect the broader ecosystem, impacting fish and other wildlife that residents might consume.
3. Runoff Soil Contamination
Heavy rains and storms can lead to localized flooding that transports contaminates from the coal yard onto the soil of surrounding properties. Once the contaminates are introduced into other areas, they can be tracked indoors by humans or pets increasing exposure.
4. Wildlife and Pets
Local wildlife, such as birds and small mammals, can ingest contaminated soil, plants, or water. These animals can spread contamination through their droppings or by becoming prey to domestic pets.
What contaminates were found in the Coal Yard soil samples?
This is a high level and very generalized overview of the information in the 1,500 page detailed Phase II environmental report on the coal yard property. The report does NOT include the power plant property north of Lake rd. If you would like to review the report I have made it available. You can also submit a public records request to the city of Avon Lake or Avon Lake Regional Water to obtain the report document.
12 VOCs were detected in the soil samples:
These compounds are especially dangerous due to their volatility, persistence in the environment, and potential for bioaccumulation in humans, posing both short-term and long-term health risks.
Benzene: Benzene is classified as a known human carcinogen, primarily affecting the blood-forming organs, and is linked to leukemia. It poses significant risks even at relatively low exposure levels. Long-term exposure can cause bone marrow damage and decrease red blood cell production. Short-term exposure can lead to dizziness, headaches, and unconsciousness.
Source: ATSDRToluene: Although not as carcinogenic as benzene, toluene poses significant neurological risks. Chronic exposure can cause lasting damage to the nervous system, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and developmental issues in children. It can also cause liver and kidney damage with long-term exposure. Source: ATSDR
Trichloroethene (TCE): TCE is classified as a probable human carcinogen, and long-term exposure is linked to kidney cancer, liver cancer, and lymphoma. Short-term exposure can cause respiratory issues, dizziness, headaches, and confusion. Prolonged exposure to TCE vapors in the air can also affect the central nervous system.
Source: ATSDR1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene: This compound can cause eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure may affect the nervous system, leading to dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
Source: CDCAcetone: Widely used in products like nail polish remover, acetone exposure can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. High concentrations may cause dizziness, headaches, and confusion, though it is generally considered less harmful than other VOCs.
Source: ATSDRn-Hexane: This solvent can cause long-term damage to the peripheral nervous system, leading to numbness or muscle weakness in the arms and legs after chronic exposure.
Source: ATSDREthylbenzene: Ethylbenzene can cause eye and throat irritation, and longer exposure can lead to dizziness and damage to the inner ear and hearing.
Source: ATSDRXylenes (Total): Xylene exposure can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs, and prolonged exposure can affect the liver and kidneys. It may also lead to headaches and dizziness.
Source: ATSDR2-Butanone (MEK): This solvent can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Chronic exposure may lead to damage to the nervous system, causing numbness in the extremities.
Source: ATSDRCarbon Disulfide: Exposure to carbon disulfide can lead to neurological effects, including headaches and confusion. Prolonged exposure may damage the nervous system and the cardiovascular system.
Source: ATSDR1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene: Similar to 1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene, this compound can cause respiratory irritation and affect the central nervous system, leading to dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
Source: CDC
19 Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) were detected in the soil samples:
These PAHs are particularly hazardous because they are persistent in the environment, bioaccumulate in organisms, and pose long-term health risks, especially through inhalation or ingestion of contaminated soil or water. They are known to cause cancer and other serious health conditions due to their ability to cause genetic mutations and disrupt cellular processes.
Source: IARC
Benzo(a)pyrene: This is one of the most toxic and well-known PAHs. It is classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Long-term exposure to benzo(a)pyrene is linked to lung, skin, and bladder cancers. It is also known to cause DNA damage.
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene: This PAH is also classified as a probable human carcinogen (Group 2A by IARC). It poses serious risks to human health, with links to cancers of the respiratory tract, skin, and other organs after long-term exposure.
Benzo(b)fluoranthene: Another potent carcinogen, benzo(b)fluoranthene is classified as a probable human carcinogen (Group 2A). Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung and skin cancers.
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate: This is a phthalate commonly used as a plasticizer. Long-term exposure may affect the liver and reproductive system. It is suspected to be an endocrine disruptor.
2-Methylnaphthalene: A PAH, 2-methylnaphthalene can cause respiratory and skin irritation, and long-term exposure could damage the liver.
Benzo(b)fluoranthene: This is a carcinogenic PAH. Exposure may lead to an increased risk of lung and skin cancers.
Chrysene: Chrysene is classified as a possible human carcinogen. Chronic exposure increases the risk of skin, lung, and bladder cancers.
Naphthalene: Exposure to naphthalene can cause respiratory issues, including damage to the lungs and kidneys. It is also a possible human carcinogen.
Phenanthrene: This PAH is less carcinogenic but can still cause skin and respiratory irritation. Long-term exposure may cause damage to the lungs.
Fluoranthene: Fluoranthene exposure can lead to skin and respiratory irritation. Chronic exposure may increase cancer risk.
Benzo(k)fluoranthene: A known carcinogen, this compound is linked to an increased risk of cancers, especially in the respiratory tract
Fluorene: Prolonged exposure may cause irritation to the skin and eyes, and it can potentially damage the liver and kidneys.
Anthracene: Generally considered less toxic, anthracene can still cause skin irritation and respiratory issues upon long-term exposure.
Acenaphthylene: This PAH can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Chronic exposure may lead to harmful effects on the lungs. Source: ATSDR
Acenaphthene: Acenaphthene is primarily a respiratory and skin irritant.A
Benzo(a)anthracene: This PAH is a probable human carcinogen, mainly affecting the lungs and skin.
Dibenz(a,h)anthracene: A potent carcinogen, long-term exposure significantly increases cancer risks, particularly lung cancer.
Pyrene: Exposure to pyrene can cause skin irritation and dermatitis. It is less carcinogenic than other PAHs but can contribute to respiratory problems.
Benzo(a)pyrene: One of the most carcinogenic PAHs, exposure can lead to lung, skin, and bladder cancers.
Benzo(a,h,i)perylene: Though less carcinogenic, long-term exposure to this PAH may cause respiratory irritation and contribute to lung cancer.
Indeno(1,2,3-c,d)pyrene: Another carcinogenic PAH, linked to an increased risk of skin and lung cancers with prolonged exposure.
1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene: This compound is an irritant to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Long-term exposure can affect the central nervous system.
One lnorganic was detected in the soil samples:
Cyanide: In soil Cyanide can pose significant environmental and health risks. Cyanide compounds are highly toxic, and even small amounts can be dangerous. Cyanide can prevent cells from using oxygen, which can lead to cell death. Acute exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and potentially fatal outcomes, including respiratory failure. Chronic exposure to lower levels can lead to long-term effects on the thyroid and central nervous system. Cyanide is also harmful to aquatic life if it leaches into waterways, affecting ecosystems by reducing oxygen levels in water, which is detrimental to both plant and animal life.
Source: ATSDR
TPH ranges detected in soil samples:
Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) refer to a broad family of chemical compounds derived from crude oil. These compounds are typically classified by their carbon chain length, with each range having different environmental behaviors and health risks.
TPH (C10-C20): This range is often referred to as "middle distillates" and includes lighter compounds such as diesel and kerosene. These compounds can volatilize and move through the soil, posing risks through inhalation of vapors and skin contact. Prolonged exposure can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and neurological effects.
Source: ATSDRTPH (C20-C34): This range represents heavier petroleum hydrocarbons, such as lubricating oils. These compounds tend to be less volatile but more persistent in the environment, and they can adhere to soil particles, leading to long-term contamination. While they pose a lower risk of inhalation due to their lower volatility, they can still cause skin irritation and other health issues if direct contact occurs over extended periods.
Source: ATSDR
14 Metals detected in the soil samples:
These metals, depending on their concentrations and exposure routes, can pose varying degrees of risk to human health, particularly through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal contact.
Antimony: Chronic exposure to antimony can affect the lungs, causing respiratory issues, and may also cause heart problems. Long-term exposure has been linked to gastrointestinal issues and liver damage.
Source: ATSDRChromium: Chromium comes in several forms, but hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is the most harmful, classified as a carcinogen. Exposure can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and a higher risk of lung cancer. Trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) is less harmful and is even an essential nutrient in small amounts. Source: ATSDR
Selenium: While selenium is essential in trace amounts, excessive exposure can lead to nausea, vomiting, hair and nail loss, and in extreme cases, neurological effects. Long-term exposure to high levels of selenium can damage the kidneys and liver.
Source: ATSDRArsenic: A known carcinogen, arsenic exposure can lead to skin, lung, and bladder cancers. Chronic exposure can also cause skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, and damage to the nervous system.
Source: ATSDRCobalt: While cobalt is necessary in small amounts for human health, excessive exposure can lead to lung and heart issues, as well as skin problems such as rashes. Chronic exposure to high levels may also affect the thyroid.
Source: ATSDRThallium: Thallium is highly toxic, and exposure can lead to hair loss, nerve damage, and damage to vital organs such as the kidneys and liver. Long-term exposure may cause severe neurological effects.
Source: ATSDRBarium: High exposure to barium can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, muscle weakness, and effects on the nervous system, including paralysis. It can also affect the heart rhythm in severe cases.
Source: ATSDRVanadium: Long-term exposure to high levels of vanadium may cause respiratory issues, such as coughing and bronchitis, as well as gastrointestinal problems. Chronic exposure can also affect the liver and kidneys.
Source: ATSDRBeryllium: Exposure to beryllium, especially in occupational settings, can lead to chronic beryllium disease (CBD), which affects the lungs. It is also classified as a human carcinogen.
Source: ATSDRLead: Lead is highly toxic and can affect nearly every organ in the body. Chronic exposure is particularly dangerous to children, causing developmental and cognitive impairments, as well as kidney and nervous system damage in adults. Source: ATSDR
Zinc: Zinc is an essential nutrient, but too much can cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and cramps. Prolonged exposure to high levels can also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb other essential minerals like copper.
Source: ATSDRCadmium: A known carcinogen, cadmium exposure can lead to lung, kidney, and bone damage. It is also associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.
Source: ATSDRNickel: Nickel exposure can cause allergic reactions, especially skin rashes. Chronic exposure has been linked to respiratory issues and, in severe cases, lung cancer. Source: ATSDR
TWO PCBs detected in the soil samples:
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of man-made organic chemicals that consist of carbon, hydrogen, and chlorine atoms. PCBs, including PCB-1248 and PCB-1262, have been banned in many countries but persist in the environment due to their chemical stability. Both PCB-1248 and PCB-1262 are classified as probable human carcinogens and can have significant long-term health effects, particularly through ingestion of contaminated food or water, inhalation of contaminated air, or skin contact.
PCB-1248: This is a commercial PCB mixture with approximately 48% chlorine by weight. Exposure to PCB-1248 can cause a range of health effects, including liver damage, skin conditions (like chloracne), and immunotoxicity. Long-term exposure may also increase the risk of cancer, particularly liver cancer. PCBs are known to be endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with hormone systems. Source: ATSDR
PCB-1262: PCB-1262 is a higher-chlorinated mixture, with around 62% chlorine by weight. It is more persistent in the environment due to its higher chlorine content, making it harder to degrade naturally. Similar to PCB-1248, PCB-1262 is associated with liver toxicity, cancer risks, and reproductive system disruption. Its high chlorine content makes it particularly resistant to breakdown, allowing it to bioaccumulate in food chains, leading to higher risks of exposure over time. Source: ATSDR
Now What?
As a resident, it’s crucial to stay informed, raise awareness, demand transparency, and take action. Your health and the future of Avon Lake depends on it.
Here’s what you can do:
Contact your city council representatives and demand transparency on the coal yard’s contamination, risk assessments, prioritization of the site clean-up, and verification.
Attend the Avon Lake Environmental Affairs Advisory Board (EAAB) meetings, held on the first Wednesday of every month at the Avon Lake library.
Stay informed and spread awareness about the health risks to friends and neighbors.