Naturally-Occurring Asbestos Found in Sumas River, WA

On July 20, 2009, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a communication regarding the discovery of naturally-occurring asbestos in the Sumas River. The River flows northeast from Whatcom County, WA into the Fraser River in Canada.

The EPA report indicates the source of the asbestos was from a landslide on the Sumas Mountain. The landslide caused asbestos sediment to contaminate Swift Creek, which flows into the Sumas River.

Sampling and testing revealed that asbestos and other metals were found in the water, bank sediments and flood deposits in Whatcom County. Samples from the Sumas riverbank showed asbestos concentrations of up to 27 percent, a higher percentage than the dredge material samples taken from Swift Creek.

The EPA has released the results of the study to area property owners, local and state heath departments and health departments and the Washington Department of Ecology. The EPA also notified the appropriate agencies in Canada. In addition, the Whatcom County Health Department and Washington Department of Health have sent advisories to those who live in the Sumas River area.

Even limited exposure to asbestos is known to cause serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer or asbestosis.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos illness, contact our lawyers today for a free review of your case. A Weitz & Luxenberg representative will contact you as soon as possible.