Health Officials: Lead, Arsenic Contamination Found At Cleves Sports Complex

The contamination is believed to be caused by weekly "turkey shoots" in the winter months.

Photo via Google Maps. 

(Whitewater Township, Oh.) – Baseball, softball and soccer activities are being halted after lead and arsenic contamination was found a at youth sports complex in Hamilton County.

The Hamilton County Health Department and EPA announced Monday the contamination was found at Taylor Creek Youth Organization’s complex on the 8000 block of Furlong Road in Cleves, reports Local 12-WKRC.  

Health officials were tipped off by a concerned citizen who believed the fields could be contaminated from weekly “turkey shoots” that occur during the winter months.

During inspection of the facility, health officials revealed debris from shotgun shells littering the field, as well as particles of gray metallic substance believe to be lead.

Health officials say soil samples tested positive for lead and arsenic contamination, while water samples showed no contamination.

It’s possible that children and other individuals using the playing fields have potentially been exposed to unsafe levels of lead. Children younger than six-years-old are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, which can severely affect mental and physical development.

According to Hamilton County Health Commissioner Tim Ingram, potential risks to children who have played at the fields are believed to be small.

However, concerned parents and guardians are encouraged to consult with their physician.