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Needham schedules spring retesting after elevated zinc, free arsenic retest offered
Summary
Staff reported further testing for synthetic turf fields is planned in spring when snow melts; a vendor agreed to retest arsenic at no charge and can retest zinc for a fee; board discussed testing both fields versus only the one with elevated zinc.
Town staff told the Board of Health that follow-up environmental testing of synthetic turf fields will be performed in the spring, when field access is possible.
Why it matters: earlier sampling showed two metals of concern. The testing contractor offered a free retest for arsenic because of an equipment issue. Zinc testing would likely incur a fee; staff estimated the incremental cost for additional zinc analysis might be in the low thousands of dollars. Annual routine environmental testing for all fields typically costs about $10,000–$12,000, staff said.
Board members debated whether to retest just Memorial Field (the field with the elevated zinc finding) or both fields, noting that a problem at one location could indicate missed issues elsewhere. Staff noted available environmental testing budget items might be used to cover a more comprehensive second round if needed.
Staff said the contractor plans to collect six grab samples per field (combined into one sample per field for some analyses), and that they would time sampling for spring thaw and first field access. The board asked staff to obtain a zinc-testing price quote and to move forward depending on cost and access.
Ending: Staff will schedule spring sampling, secure pricing for zinc testing, and use available environmental testing budget funds if a broader retest is pursued.
