Brownfields Program
Free EPA-funded environmental site assessments for contaminated or potentially contaminated properties across Lake, Sanders, and Mineral counties.
Unlocking Properties Held Back by Environmental Concerns
What Properties Qualify?
A wide range of properties with known or suspected contamination may be eligible for a free assessment.
Former Gas Stations & Fuel Storage
Underground storage tanks, fuel dispensing areas, and petroleum-contaminated soil are among the most common brownfields candidates in rural communities.
Auto Repair & Service Shops
Properties with historical auto repair operations may have contamination from oils, solvents, antifreeze, and hydraulic fluids.
Dry Cleaners & Laundries
Dry cleaning operations commonly used perchloroethylene (PERC) and other solvents that can persist in soil and groundwater.
Industrial & Manufacturing Sites
Former mills, metal fabrication shops, chemical storage facilities, and other industrial properties may have legacy contamination.
Methamphetamine-Affected Properties
Properties where methamphetamine was manufactured or extensively used present chemical hazards that require professional assessment before occupancy or sale.
Other Potentially Contaminated Properties
Agricultural chemical storage, abandoned commercial properties, sites near historical industrial operations, contact our brownfields program manager if you're unsure about eligibility.
Phase I vs. Phase II
EPA Brownfields assessments follow a two-phase process. We determine which phase is appropriate for your property.
Environmental Site Assessment
A records review and site inspection that identifies potential environmental concerns without any sampling. Documents the property's history and any recognized environmental conditions (RECs).
- Historical records review
- Regulatory database search
- Site inspection and interviews
- Written report with findings
- No soil or groundwater sampling
Subsurface Investigation
Actual sampling and laboratory analysis to confirm or characterize contamination identified in Phase I. Required when Phase I identifies recognized environmental conditions.
- Soil and groundwater sampling
- Laboratory analysis
- Contamination mapping
- Risk characterization
- Cleanup recommendations
Assessment costs only. The Brownfields Program covers Phase I and Phase II assessment costs. Cleanup funding is not available through this program. Assessments are provided at no cost to the applicant.
Request an
Assessment
Contact our brownfields program manager to find out if your property qualifies and to begin the application process. No cost, no obligation.
Brownfields Inquiry
Describe your property and its history. Karl will follow up to discuss eligibility and next steps.
Service Area: Lake, Sanders, and Mineral counties. Property must be located within our three-county region to qualify.
Other Programs
Free Assessments.
No Cost, No Obligation.
If you own or are considering purchasing a property with potential environmental concerns, our brownfields program manager can help you understand your options, at no cost.