Casmalia Resources Landfill Public Health Assessment

Timeframe: 2002 to 2005

Casmalia Resources is a Class I hazardous waste landfill located in Santa Barbara County, California. Between 1972 and 1986, the facility placed hazardous waste into its landfills and waste ponds. In 1984, Casmalia Elementary school closed due to odors from evaporating liquid waste, prompting widespread concerns in the community about exposure to site contaminants.

In 2002, the US EPA and the California Department of Public Health engaged IAI to assist in the development and release of a public health assessment (PHA) for Casmalia landfill. IAI staff met with federal, state, and local agencies, as well as with residents and community leaders. IAI provided scientific expertise and community coordination for the development of the PHA, which identified past public health risks from exposure to vapors. While there were no current exposure pathways for residents, IAI did identify potential future exposure pathways and recommended site remediation and enhanced monitoring.