EPA Victoria is conducting a soil and dust study in Bendigo as part of its focus on science-led decision making. 

 

A team of scientists will be collecting samples from front yards and vacuums to gain a deeper level of understanding of any legacy impacts from historical mine activity.

 

EPA’s Chief Environmental Scientist, Professor Mark Patrick Taylor, is encouraging anyone in the area to get involved in the study and learn more about their environment.

 

“Our team will take soil samples from your front garden and test them for contaminants.  Then we’ll test the dust from the vacuum cleaner to find out whether any of those contaminants are making it into the house,” Prof Taylor said.

 

“Your vacuum cleaner will become a scientific tool to help us answer some important questions; are there any contaminants in the soil, are they likely to have an impact?” he said.

 

The testing will look for eight contaminants typically found in gold mine tailings.  They include lead, arsenic, chromium, cadmium, copper, manganese and nickel.

 

EPA is looking for up to 100 households, and anyone who takes part will receive a report on the scientific testing, an explanation of the results and advice on how to manage any potential contamination so it doesn’t do any harm.

 

“You don’t even have to be at home – just make sure we can access your front garden to take some samples, and leave the dust in a clean plastic bag at your front door,” Prof Taylor said.

 

To volunteer, register here with EPA Victoria Citizen Science