Heavy Metals Results

E. coli Results, Robeson County, NC

What are heavy metals?

Heavy metals are a class of elements that includes arsenic, cadmium, and lead. Metals occur naturally in soils in small amounts, but can also result from industrial and agricultural activities. Sources include old paint and plumbing, fertilizer, pesticide, and industrial waste. Low levels of metals in the soil is normal and precautionary measures only need to be taken at high concentrations. Repeated and long-term exposure can be detrimental to human health, especially for children.

A total of 49 samples were collected to test for heavy metals. The locations of these samples are displayed in the map below. and are indicated by the blue dots.

Below are the results of the tests that measured Arsenic (As) in Robeson County, NC

Sample average: 1.38 ppm
Sample range: <0.50-4.51 ppm
Note: Arsenic regulations in many states are set according to natural background levels. In many cases, the suggested level for residential clean up is between 10-12 ppm.


Below are the results of the tests that measured Cadmium (Cd) in Robeson County, NC

Sample average: 0.05 ppm
Sample range: <0.10-0.35 ppm
Note: The EPA’s soil threshold for cadmium is 70 ppm


Below are the results of the tests that measured Lead (Pb) in Robeson County, NC

Sample average: 23.98 ppm
Sample range: 4.32-159.00 ppm
Note: The EPA considers lead a haz-ard when equal or exceeding 400 ppm in bare soil for children’s play areas or 1200 ppm bare soil in the rest of the yard.