FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have sparked controversy by deciding to skip soil testing after cleaning up debris from recent Los Angeles County wildfires.

FEMA's policy shift regarding soil testing after wildfires appears to have been incorporated into the 2023 Hazard Mitigation Program and Policy Guide, superseding a previous policy outlined in March 2023

This breaks from California's established practice since 2007 of mandatory soil testing after major wildfires. FEMA's current procedure involves removing toxic ash, rubble, and a 3-6 inch layer of topsoil, which they argue is sufficient to protect public health.

The research indicates that wildfire debris contains complex pollutants including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), heavy metals, and toxic chemicals that pose significant health risks. Exposure can cause respiratory problems, skin and eye irritation, and increase the risk of chronic diseases. The annual economic burden from wildfires in the U.S. ranges from $37-185 billion, with health costs reaching hundreds of millions per year. Traditional soil testing includes comprehensive site assessment, asbestos removal, debris clearance, and repeated testing until contamination levels meet safety standards.

Environmental experts and California officials have expressed serious concerns about FEMA's decision. They argue that soil testing is crucial for ensuring resident safety, particularly given the potential for persistent hazardous materials even after topsoil removal. The issue highlights a fundamental tension between expediting recovery efforts and ensuring thorough environmental safety measures. While skipping soil testing may accelerate cleanup and reduce immediate costs, it raises questions about long-term health and environmental consequences for affected communities. Current research, including studies by USC Dornsife's Department of Earth Sciences, continues to evaluate contamination risks in fire-impacted areas.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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