When a water resource fair is held this week in Benton Harbor, residents will be able to bring in samples of soil from their yards to have them tested for lead. Regina Strong with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy tells WSJM News the soil testing is one of several services that will be offered at Thursday’s fair.
“Ask questions, learn more, find out about resources that are free for folks, like the home assessment,” Strong said. “We’re getting into gardening season, so bring a bag of your soil and it can be tested there on the spot. It’s just a wealth of information that folks can gain.”
Strong says soil testing will take about 15 minutes, and staff from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will be on hand to offer tips on how to avoid lead consumption from garden products. Also at the fair will be free water testing, bottled water, and sign-ups for home lead inspections. Plus, there will be employers at the fair looking to hire. The water resource fair will be Thursday at the Boys and Girls Club of Benton Harbor Teen Center from 4 to 7 p.m.
