Arsenic Levels High In Slag Chunks On Keyport Beach

KEYPORT, NJ — Over the weekend, NJ Congressman Frank Pallone gave an update on the chunks of slag and iron that have been unearthed on the beach in Keyport this July:

The slag chunks were tested, and they actually came back showing low levels of lead, said the Congressman.

However, they tested high for arsenic, he said Aug. 3.

The state of New Jersey is now putting up signs warning the public not to touch the slag chunks found all over the beach at Walnut Street in Keyport.

“This week, the DEP has been busy removing and testing the larger pieces and will keep at it," said Pallone. "While lead levels are low, most samples showed higher arsenic levels. Arsenic exposure happens if you touch the material and then eat or touch your mouth without washing your hands. NJDEP put up new signage today advising the public not to handle the materials found on the beach."

New York/New Jersey Baykeeper Greg Remaud said the beach where the chunks were found is the former Aeromarine industrial site, and they used to manufacture airplanes there.

Remaud said he suspects the slag was dumped, possibly as long as 50 years ago, and only in the past two weeks was exposed by shifting sands and tides.

Last week: Chunks Of Lead Slag On Keyport Beach Will Be Removed Starting Monday