Some limited mining operations have been performed at Bunker Hill by various entities since that time. The metals that contaminated the site have both health and environmental effects. Lead, arsenic, cadmium, and zinc are the contaminants of primary concern for human health at Bunker Hill. Small children and pregnant women, particularly, should be warned about the neurologic effects of lead. Childhood lead toxicity may have permanent effects including decreased intelligence quotient scores, impaired hearing, and reduced growth.
Arsenic exposure can increase cancer risk, cause skin problems, and blood and nerve disorders.
Cadmium at high levels can severely damage the lungs while lower levels can lead to kidney disease. Zinc exposure can cause stomach and digestive problems. It may also interfere with the immune system. The soils, water, and air in the area have been contaminated by the metals. In addition, much of the soil on hillsides in the Bunker Hill Industrial Complex has eroded since the clearing of trees nearly 100 years ago.