Arsenic levels high in soil near makeshift SC lab

ANDERSON, S.C. (AP) — Federal environmental investigators say they have found dangerous levels of arsenic in the soil surrounding a makeshift chemical lab recently discovered in Anderson near Lake Hartwell.

The Anderson Independent-Mail reports Saturday that Environmental Protection Agency investigators found arsenic levels 10 to 20 times higher than what would typically concern them.

Last month, the EPA began helping clean up two properties in Anderson where hazardous chemicals have been found. Officials think someone was trying to make organic diesel fuel in a makeshift chemical lab.

Officials think the site’s months long cleanup will cost about $1 million. The property’s owner has been cooperating with authorities.

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Information from: Anderson Independent-Mail, http://www.andersonsc.com