Holder Park was the only park tested that uses mulch as a base for the grounds. No action is necessary at the other 19 parks tested in Brevard County. The federal standard for arsenic is 10 parts per million in the soil. At Holder Park, lab technicians found 17 parts per million, or 70 percent above the federal guidelines. However, parks and recreation managers believe that there is still no danger to children.
Authorities are concerned about playground equipment made with pressure-treated wood.
This kind of building material is soaked in a solution containing arsenic, among other chemicals, to keep it from rotting and to keep termites out. Parks and recreation managers said that rainwater probably washes some of the arsenic out of the wood and into the ground where children can come in contact with it. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Quotes delayed a minimum of 20 min.