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# Trail Area Health & Environment Program

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://thep.ca/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [THEC Meeting Minutes - April 15, 2026](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-15-2026/) - THEC SUMMARY April 15-2026 -approved packageDownload
- [Air Quality Report - June 2026](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-june-2026/) - Air Quality Report - June 2026Download
- [THEP 2025 Lessons Learned Highlights](https://thep.ca/thep-2025-lessons-learned-highlights/) - THEP 2025 Lessons Learned HighlightsDownload
- [Air Quality Report - April 2026](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-april-2026/) - Air Quality Report - April 2026Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes - February 11, 2026](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-11-2026/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - February 11, 2026Download
- [Spring 2026 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-2026-newsletter/) - Welcome to our Spring edition for 2026 showcasing a snapshot of key accomplishments in our six program areas in 2025. Also, see tips on using leaf blowers safely and meet Dave Bell, born and raised in Trail and now working in the Environment department at Teck Trail Operations. Download
- [About Trail Area Health & Environment Program](https://thep.ca/about-trail-area-health-environment-program-brochure/) - This brochure provides an overview of the Trail and Area Health and Environment Program (THEP) including detailled contact information. THEP: supporting you to live, work and play in an area influenced by smelter air emissions.Download
- [Fall 2025 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2025-blood-lead-report/) - Blood Lead Levels in Trail Presentation 2025Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – December 4, 2025](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-december-4-2025/) - THEC SUMMARY Package Dec 4-2025approvedDownload
- [Air Quality Report - Feb 2026](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-feb-2026/) - Air Quality Report - Feb 2026Download
- [THEP 2025 Strategic Milestone Reporting](https://thep.ca/thep-2025-strategic-milestone-reporting/)
- [Air Quality Lead (Pb) Fact Sheet](https://thep.ca/air-quality-lead-pb-fact-sheet/) - Air Quality (Pb) Fact SheetDownload
- [Air Quality Report - Dec 2025](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-dec-2025/) - Air Quality Report - Dec 2025Download
- [Air Quality Report - Sept 2025](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-sept-2025/) - Air Quality Report - Sept 2025Download
- [Air Quality Report - June 2025](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-june-2025/) - Air Quality Report - June 2025Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 28, 2024](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-28-2024/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - November 28, 2024Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – May 7, 2025](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-may-7-2025/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - May 7, 2025Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 19, 2025](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-19-2025/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - June 19, 2025Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes - September 16, 2025](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-16-2025/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - September 16, 2025Download
- [Media Release – 2025 Children’s Blood Lead Levels Remain Similar to Recent Years with Participation Rates Rising](https://thep.ca/2025-childrens-blood-lead-levels-media-release/) - December 5, 2025 Trail, BC - The 2025 blood lead testing clinic results for children aged six months to 36 months in Trail and Rivervale show an average blood lead level of 2.3 micrograms per decilitre, similar to recent years. Year to year variability in blood lead levels is influenced by lead levels in community
- [Air Quality Improvement Programs 2024 Update](https://thep.ca/thec-presentation-air-quality-sosub2-sub-and-fugitive-dust-2024/) - This report was provided on September 12th, 2024 by Donna Haga (Teck) to the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC) on Teck Trail Operations’ air quality improvement programs from 2024. The report describes the fugitive dust and sulphur dioxide reduction programs. THEC Presentation - Air Quality - SO2 and Fugitive DustDownload
- [Air Quality Improvement Programs 2025 Update](https://thep.ca/air-quality-improvement-programs-2025-update/) - This report was provided on September 16th, 2025 by Tim Moore and Keith Klimchuk (Teck) to the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC) on Teck Trail Operations’ air quality improvement programs from 2025. The report describes the fugitive dust and sulphur dioxide reduction programs. Teck 2025 Annual AQ UpdateDownload
- [Umicore from Hoboken, Belgium visits Trail, B.C.](https://thep.ca/umicore-from-hoboken-belgium-visits-trail-b-c/) - In May 2025, THEP and Teck welcomed Liene Dhooghe, from Umicore in Hoboken, Belgium, to Trail. Liene presented the story of her community at the regular meeting of the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC). She also met the local program delivery team and Teck Trail Operations to compare notes and exchange ideas.
- [Knowledge Sharing & Learning Trail Group Online – 2023, 2024, 2025](https://thep.ca/knowledge-sharing-learning-trail-group-online-3/) - As follow up to the June 2023 Knowledge Sharing & Learning Tour in Trail, the KS&L Trail Group was formed with follow up meetings online in September 2023 and January, June and November 2024. Read on for details of meetings...
- [Knowledge Sharing & Learning Trail Group Onboarding Tour for New Members](https://thep.ca/knowledge-sharing-learning-trail-group-onboarding-tour-for-new-members/) - Co-hosted by the City of Trail and Teck Trail Operations, the purpose of this onboarding tour was to support new members to participate effectively in future Knowledge Sharing & Learning Trail Group meetings by understanding the people, organizations and portfolio of work (regulated and non-regulated) taking place in Trail to support human health and well-being in a community influenced by smelter air emissions.
- [Fall 2025 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2025-newsletter/) - See dates for Children’s Lead Testing Clinics in Trail. Meet Sara Ridge, a THEC community member. Learn about how to manage lead dust after shooting firearms and how one family dealt with lead dust from peeling paint on their property. Hear about our local and international knowledge sharing, exchange and learning. Try out some fun
- [Media Release – Global Conversation on Reducing Lead Exposure Comes to Trail, May 2025](https://thep.ca/media-release-global-conversation-on-reducing-lead-exposure-comes-to-trail-may-2025/) - What do communities living near operating lead smelters have in common—and what can they learn from one another? These questions have brought together professionals from Trail, B.C., Port Pirie, Australia, and Hoboken, Belgium in an international Community of Practice (CoP) focused on reducing lead exposure and improving public health. Media Release - International Visit with
- [Media Release – In 2022 Trail Area Health & Environment Program are Leading the Way!](https://thep.ca/media-release-trail-area-health-environment-program-leading-the-way/) - July 6, 2022, Trail, B.C. – The Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) has caught the attention of Australian communities that have active smelting operations. In Trail, the average blood lead level in children has been less than 3 micrograms per decilitre since 2018 and Pb (lead) in air as measured at Butler Park
- [Media Release – What's New July 2024](https://thep.ca/media-release-whats-new-july-2024/) - Each year THEP supports hundreds of people in the community with outreach, activities and supplies. Since the start of 2024, 42 residents accessed the Lead Safe Renovation supplies; 42 families have received a Health Families Health Homes visit; 53 properties have received soil assessment and 43 properties received soil management. As part of soil management,
- [Trail Area Residential Soil Assessment and Remediation - 2019 Work Plan](https://thep.ca/trail-area-residential-soil-assessment-and-remediation-2019-work-plan/) - Trail Area Residential Soil Assessment and Remediation - 2019 Work PlanDownload
- [Trail Area Soil Management Program 2024 Annual Report & 2025 Soil Management Plan](https://thep.ca/trail-area-soil-management-program-2024-annual-report-2025-soil-management-plan/) - Trail-Area-Soil-Management-Program-2024-2025-Soil-Management-ProgramDownload
- [Trail Area Soil Management Program 2023 Annual Report & 2024 Soil Management Plan](https://thep.ca/trail-area-soil-management-program-2023-annual-report-2024-soil-management-plan/) - Trail-Area-Soil-Management-Program-2023-2024-Soil-Management-ProgramDownload
- [Trail Area Soil Management Program 2022 Annual Report & 2023 Soil Management Plan](https://thep.ca/trail-area-soil-management-program-2022-annual-report-2023-soil-management-plan/) - Trail-Area-Soil-Management-Program-2022-2023-Soil-Management-ProgramDownload
- [Trail Area Soil Management Program 2021 Annual Report & 2022 Soil Management Plan](https://thep.ca/trail-area-soil-management-program-2021-annual-report-2022-soil-management-plan/) - Trail-Area-Soil-Management-Program-2021-2022-Soil-Management-ProgramDownload
- [Trail Area Soil Management Program 2020 Annual Report & 2021 Soil Management Plan](https://thep.ca/trail-area-soil-management-program-2020-annual-report-2021-soil-management-plan/) - Trail-Area-Soil-Management-Program-2020-2021-Soil-Management-ProgramDownload
- [Healthy Families Healthy Homes Review 2023-2024](https://thep.ca/review-of-healthy-families-healthy-homes-2023-2024/) - HFHH- Community Report- 2023-2024Download
- [Pilot Residential Lead Inspection Review: Community Brief (2024)](https://thep.ca/pilot-residential-lead-inspection-review-community-brief/) - Residential Lead Inspection Pilot Review: Community Brief 2024Download
- [Healthy Families Healthy Homes Feedback 2020-2022](https://thep.ca/healthy-families-healthy-homes-feedback-2020-2022/) - HFHH Feedback- Community Report- 2020-2022Download
- [A Co-Operative Approach to Risk Management in an Active Lead/Zinc Smelter Community (1996)](https://thep.ca/a-co-operative-approach-to-risk-management-in-an-active-lead-zinc-smelter-community-1996/) - This article was published in Environmental Geochemistry and Health (1996). It summarizes the approach and studies from the first 5-years of the Trail Lead Task Force.The Task Force had responsibility for developing a strategy to reduce children's blood lead levels in Trail. With funding from the provincial government, the smelting company and the municipal government, the
- [THEP 2024 Lessons Learned Highlights](https://thep.ca/thep-2024-lessons-learned-highlights/) - 2024 THEP lessons learned for sharingDownload
- [Air Quality Report – February 2025](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-february-2025/) - Air Quality Report - Feb 2025Download
- [Air Quality Report – May 2025](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-may-2025/) - Air Quality Report - May 2025Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes - February 12, 2025](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-12-2025/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - February 12, 2025Download
- [Spring 2025 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-2025-newsletter/) - Bring your voice to the THEC table! Read tips on reducing exposure to lead dust. Meet Nolan DeRosa from THEP’s Soil Management Program. Bust some myths, check out community events and enjoy our kids activity! Download
- [Trail Area Soil Management Program 2019 Annual Report & 2020 Soil Management Plan](https://thep.ca/trail-area-soil-management-annual-report-2019-2020-soil-management-plan/) - Trail-Area-Soil-Management-Program-2019-2020-Soil-Management-ProgramDownload
- [Spot the Difference!](https://thep.ca/spot-the-difference/) - Download our full colour and black and white spot the difference and colouring activity sheets!
- [Tips for Growing Food in Trail](https://thep.ca/tips-for-growing-food-in-trail/)
- [THEP Strategic Directions Plan 2022-2027](https://thep.ca/thep-strategic-directions-plan-2022/) - This Strategic Plan is a guide for the Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) from 2022 to 2027. THEP supports community health and wellbeing in an area influenced by smelter air emissions for over 125 years. Areas of focus include air, health, soil, built environments, community connection, and understanding the bigger picture.
- [Air Quality Report – November 2024 (Revision 1, January 2025)](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-november-2024/) - Air Quality Report – November 2024 (Revision 1, January 2025)Download
- [ SO2 permit amendment public notification background presentation to THEC (November 28, 2024).](https://thep.ca/so2-permit-amendment-public-notification-background-presentation-to-thec-november-28-2024/) - This presentation describes Teck’s application for an amendment to the Trail Operations Air Permits. This is in the pre-application phase to ENV and there is a requirement for a public notification process. At the November 28th, 2024, THEC meeting, Teck Trail Operations provided background on the permit amendment application to the group. SO2 permit amendment public notification background presentation to
- [Air Quality SO<sub>2</sub> FAQ](https://thep.ca/air-quality-so2-faq/) - Air Quality SO2 FAQDownload
- [Fall 2024 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2024-blood-lead-report/) - Blood Lead Levels in Trail Presentation Fall 2024Download
- [Air Quality Report – September 2024](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-september-2024/) - Air Quality Report - Sept 2024Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 12, 2024](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-12-2024/) - THEC Meeting Minutes – September 12, 2024 (PDF)Download
- [Media Release – 2024 Children’s Lead Levels Steady, Participation Rates Rising](https://thep.ca/2024-childrens-lead-levels-steady/) - The 2024 blood lead testing clinic results for children aged six months to 36 months in Trailand Rivervale show an average blood lead level of 2.2 micrograms per decilitre, similar to last year’s finding.
- [Fall 2024 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2024-newsletter/) - Find out about Children’s Lead Testing Clinics in Trail. Meet Clare North, Superintendent, Environmental Remediation and Biodiversity (Teck Trail Operations). Learn how to reduce the risk of lead exposure and check out community events. Download
- [THEC Meeting minutes – September 19, 2019](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-19-2019/) - Minutes and reports from the September 19, 2019 THEC meeting. THEC Meeting Minutes – September 19, 2019Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – January 20, 2009](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-january-20-2009/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of January 20, 2009. Jan 20, 2009Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – March 3, 2009](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-march-3-2009/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of March 3, 2009. Mar 3, 2009Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – May 20, 2009](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-may-20-2009/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of May 20, 2009. May 20, 2009Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 10, 2009](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-sept-10-2009/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of September 10, 2009. Sep 10, 2009Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 25, 2009](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-nov-25-2009/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of November 25, 2009. Nov 25, 2009Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 14, 2010](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-sept-14-2010/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of September 14, 2010. Sep 14, 2010Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 9, 2010](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-nov-9-2010/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of November 9, 2010. Nov 9, 2010Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 8, 2011](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-feb-8-2011/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of February 8, 2011. Feb 8, 2011Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 6, 2011](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-6-2011/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of April 6, 2011. Apr 6, 2011Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 28, 2011](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-28-2011/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of June 28, 2011. Jun 28, 2011Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 15, 2011](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-sept-15-2011/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of September 15, 2011 Sep 15, 2011Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 22, 2011](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-nov-22-2011/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of November 22, 2011. Nov 22, 2011Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 28, 2012](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-feb-28-2012/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of February 28, 2012 Feb 28, 2012Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – May 1, 2012](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-may-1-2012/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of May 1, 2012. May 1, 2012Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – July 10, 2012](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-july-10-2012/) - This package includes the THEC minutes and reports from the July 10, 2012 meeting. July 10, 2012Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 4, 2012](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-4-2012/) - This package includes the minutes and reports from the September 4, 2012 THEC meeting. Sep 4, 2012Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 6, 2012](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-nov-6-2012/) - This package includes the meeting minutes and reports presented at the THEC meeting of November 6, 2012. Nov 6, 2012Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 5, 2013](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-feb-5-2013/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of February 5, 2013. Feb 5, 2013Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 30, 2013](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-apr-30-2013/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of April 30, 2013. Apr 30, 2013Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 25, 2013](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-25-2013/) - This package includes the minutes and reports from the June 25, 2013 THEC meeting. Jun 25, 2013Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 10, 2013](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-sept-10-2013/) - This package includes meeting minutes and reports presented at the THEC meeting of September 10, 2013. Sep 10, 2013Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 19, 2013](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-nov-19-2013/) - This package includes the minutes and reports from the November 19, 2013 THEC meeting. Nov 19, 2013Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – January 14, 2014](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-jan-14-2014/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of January 14, 2014. Jan 14, 2014Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – March 4, 2014](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-march-4-2014/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of March 4, 2014. Mar 4, 2014Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – May 13, 2014](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-may-13-2014/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of May 13, 2014. May 13, 2014Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – July 8, 2014](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-july-8-2014/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of July 8, 2014. Jul 8, 2014Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 9, 2014](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-9-2014/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of September 9, 2014. THEC Meeting Minutes – September 9, 2014Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 18, 2014](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-18-2014/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of November 18, 2014. THEC Meeting Minutes – November 18, 2014Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 17, 2015](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-17-2015/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of February 17, 2015. THEC Meeting Minutes – February 17, 2015Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2015](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-14-2015/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of April 14, 2015. THEC Meeting Minutes – April 14, 2015Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – July 7, 2015](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-july-7-2015/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of July 7, 2015. THEC Meeting Minutes – July 7, 2015Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 8, 2015](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-8-2015/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of September 8, 2015. THEC Meeting Minutes – September 8, 2015Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 24, 2015](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-24-2015/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of November 24, 2015. THEC Meeting Minutes – November 24, 2015Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 2, 2016](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-2-2016/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of February 2, 2016. THEC Meeting Minutes – February 2, 2016Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 26, 2019](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-26-2019/) - Minutes and reports from the November 26, 2019 THEC meeting. THEC Meeting Minutes – November 26, 2019Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 19, 2016](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-19-2016/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of April 19, 2016. THEC Meeting Minutes – April 19, 2016Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 20, 2016](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-20-2016/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of September 20, 2016. THEC Meeting Minutes – September 20, 2016Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 22, 2016](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-22-2016/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of November 22, 2016. THEC Meeting Minutes – November 22, 2016Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 7, 2017](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-7-2017/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of February 7, 2017. THEC Meeting Minutes – February 7, 2017Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 18, 2017](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-18-2017/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of April 18, 2017. THEC Meeting Minutes – April 18, 2017Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 27, 2017](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-27-2017/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of June 27, 2017. THEC Meeting Minutes – June 27, 2017Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 5, 2017](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-5-2017/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of September 5, 2017. THEC Meeting Minutes – September 5,2017Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 28, 2017](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-28-2017/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC Meeting of November 28, 2017. THEC Meeting Minutes – November 28, 2017Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 6, 2018](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-6-2018/) - This package includes the minutes of the meeting and reports presented at the THEC meeting of February 6, 2018. THEC Meeting Minutes – February 6, 2018Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 17, 2018](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-17-2018/) - Minutes and reports presented at the April 17 2018 THEC meeting. THEC Meeting Minutes – April 17, 2018Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 26, 2018](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-26-2018/) - Minutes and reports presented at the June 26 2018 THEC meeting. THEC Meeting Minutes – June 26, 2018Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 25, 2018](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-25-2018/) - Minutes and reports presented at the September 25, 2018 THEC meeting. THEC Meeting Minutes – September 25, 2018Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – January 22, 2019](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-january-22-2019/) - Minutes and reports presented at the January 22, 2019 THEC meeting THEC Meeting Minutes – January 22, 2019Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 17, 2019](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-17-2019/) - Minutes and reports from the April 17th, 2019 THEC meeting. THEC Meeting Minutes – April 17, 2019Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 4, 2019](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-4-2019/) - Minutes and reports from the June 4, 2019 THEC meeting. THEC Meeting Minutes – June 4, 2019Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 20, 2020](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-20-2020/) - Minutes and reports from the February 20, 2020 THEC meeting.
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 30, 2020](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-30-2020/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - April 30, 2020 Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 17, 2020](https://thep.ca/meeting-minutes-june-17-2020/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - June 17, 2020Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 16, 2020](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-16-2020/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - September 16, 2020Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 26, 2020](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-26-2020/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - November 26, 2020Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 10, 2021](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-10-2021/) - THEC Meeting Minutes February 10, 2021Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 21, 2021](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-21-2021/) - THEC-Meeting-Minutes-April-21-2021Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 17, 2021](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-17-2021/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - June 17, 2021Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 22, 2021](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-22-2021/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - September 22, 2021Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – November 25, 2021](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-november-25-2021/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - November 25, 2021Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 10, 2022](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-10-2022/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - February 10, 2022Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 26, 2022](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-26-2022/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - April 26, 2022Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 21, 2022](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-21-2022/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - June 21, 2022Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 22, 2022](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - September 22, 2022 Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – December 1, 2022](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-december-1-2022/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - December 1, 2022Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 22, 2023](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-22-2023/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - February 22, 2023Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 20, 2023](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-20-2023/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - April 20, 2023Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – December 6, 2023](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-december-6-2023/) - THEC Meeting Minutes - December 6, 2023Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 19, 2024](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-19-2024/) - THEC Meeting Minutes – June 19, 2024Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – February 27, 2024](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-february-27-2024/) - THEC Meeting Minutes – February 27, 2024Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – April 24, 2024](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-april-24-2024/) - THEC Meeting Minutes – April 24, 2024Download
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – September 27, 2023](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-september-27-2023/) - THEC_meeting_summary_and_presentations_Sept27_23_approvedDownload
- [Air Quality Report – February 2024](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-february-2024/) - Download Air Quality Report February 2024Download
- [Air Quality Report – April 2019](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-april-2019/) - Download Air Quality Report April 2019Download
- [Air Quality Report – November 2019](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-november-2019/) - Download Air Quality Report November 2019Download
- [Air Quality Report – June 2019](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-june-2019/) - Download Air Quality Report June 2019Download
- [Air Quality Report – February 2020](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-february-2020/) - Download Air Quality Report February 2020Download
- [Air Quality Report – April 2020](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-april-2020/) - Download Air Quality Report April 2020Download
- [Air Quality Report – June 2020](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-june-2020/) - Download Air Quality Report June 2020Download
- [Air Quality Report – September 2020](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-september-2020/) - Download Air Quality Report September 2020Download
- [Air Quality Report – November 2020](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-november-2020/) - Download Air Quality Report November 2020Download
- [Air Quality Report – January 2021](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-january-2021/) - Download Air Quality Report January 2021Download
- [Air Quality Report – April 2021](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-2021/) - Download Air Quality Report April 2021Download
- [Air Quality Report – June 2021](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-june-2021/) - Download Air Quality Report June 2021Download
- [Air Quality Report – September 2021](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-sept-2021/) - Download Air Quality Report Sept 2021Download
- [Air Quality Report – November 2021](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-nov-2021/) - Download Air Quality Report November 2021Download
- [Air Quality Report – January 2022](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-jan-2022/) - Download Air Quality Report January 2022Download
- [Air Quality Report – June 2022](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-june-2022/) - Download Air Quality Report June 2022Download
- [Air Quality Report – April 2022](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-april-2022/) - Download Air Quality Report April 2022Download
- [Air Quality Report – September 2022](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-sept-2022/) - Download Air Quality Report September 2022Download
- [Air Quality Report – December 2022](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-dec-2022/) - Download Air Quality Report December 2022Download
- [Air Quality Report – April 2023](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-apr-2023/) - Download Air Quality Report April 2023Download
- [Air Quality Report – June 2023](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-jun-2023/) - Download Air Quality Report June 2023Download
- [Air Quality Report – September 2023](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-sep-2023/) - Download Air Quality Report September 2023Download
- [Air Quality Report – December 2023](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-dec-2023/) - Download Air Quality Report December 2023Download
- [Air Quality Report – February 2023](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-feb-2023/) - Download Air Quality Report February 2023Download
- [Air Quality Report – April 2024](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-april-2024-2/) - Download Air Quality Report April 2024Download
- [Air Quality Report – June 2024](https://thep.ca/air-quality-report-june-2024/) - Download Air Quality Report June 2024Download
- [SO<sub>2</sub> Fact Sheet](https://thep.ca/so2-fact-sheet/) - 2024 THEP Air Quality SO2 Fact SheetDownload
- [THEP 2023 Lessons Learned Highlights](https://thep.ca/2023-lessons-learned-highlights/) - THEP partners met in December 2023 to review the year. A key takeaway was that reducing exposure to lead truly requires a 'community’. This document summarizes the collective reflections of partners and six major lessons learned. THEP-Partners-Lessons-Learned-2023-approvedDownload
- [Spring 2024 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-2024-newsletter/) - Find out about how to reduce lead (Pb) exposure for you and your baby. Meet Morgan Sternberg, Manager at the Community Program Office. Learn about HomeSmart and FireSmart. Boost your day with Cecilee’s iron-rich smoothie! Download
- [THEP Soil Management Trifold](https://thep.ca/thep-soil-management-trifold/) - THEP Soil Management BrochureDownload
- [Maternal Health Brochure](https://thep.ca/maternal-health-brochure/) - Maternal Health BrochureDownload For more information Visit Expecting Parents Page
- [THEP and Early Childhood Development](https://thep.ca/thep-and-early-childhood-development/) - Children are at the heart of the Trail Area Health & Environment Program’s work. Over the years, THEP’s mandate of preventing children’s exposure to lead has broadened to include a commitment to young children’s healthy development. Learn more! THEP and Early Childhood DevelopmentDownload
- [Lead Safe Renovation Brochure](https://thep.ca/lead-safe-renovation-brochure/) - This brochure explains the importance of lead safe renovation and describes programs available to Do-It-Yourselfers, contractors and people hiring contractors. It also gives tips for doing lead-safe home renovations. THEP-Lead-Safe-Renovation-RackCard-240422Download
- [Video 8: Tips for Contractors](https://thep.ca/video-8/) - Lance is a Trail Area Lead Safe Contractor (hyperlink to list of TALSCs) who demonstrates some tips for professionals in this video. This includes using HEPA tools and equipment and making sure workers stay safe on the job and go home healthy at the end of the day. This video will be relevant for contractors
- [INTERVIEW with Dr. Nelson Ames](https://thep.ca/interview-with-dr-nelson-ames/) - Dr. Nelson Ames, former Medical Health Officer for the Kootenays (retired) answers common community questions in this interview. Dr. Ames has been involved with lead health issues in Trail since 1988. 1. How long have you been involved with the lead health issues in Trail? What has your role been? A: I have been involved
- [Fall 2018 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2018-newsletter/) - Meet the new THEC Facilitator, learn about free developmental check ups for children, toy lending library, government childcare benefits and tips on healthy teething, healthy eating and more. THEP Newsletter Fall 2018Download
- [Spring 2019 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-2019-newsletter/) - Learn about the expanded Soil Management Program, the Toddler Development Index and meet the new THEC chair Mayor Lisa Pasin. THEP Newsletter Spring 2019Download
- [Fall 2019 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2019-newsletter/) - Learn how the soil management program works, about the Healthy Families Healthy Homes program and why early childhood development is important. Meet the Home & Garden staff as well as THEP's new public health nurse. THEP Newsletter Fall 2019Download
- [Soil Management Plan FAQs](https://thep.ca/2019-soil-management-plan-2/) - We expanded our long standing soil testing and remediation program in 2019. FAQs developed in 2019 apply to all annual soil management plans. Learn more about soil testing and, in qualifying yards, replacement of soil or improvements to ground cover on a prioritized basis. 2019 Soil Management Plan FAQsDownload
- [Soil Management: What's Excluded?](https://thep.ca/soil-testing-and-remediation-whats-excluded/) - Soil Management: Excluded AreasDownload
- [Lead & Your Family's Health](https://thep.ca/lead-your-familys-health/) - This brochure provides information on how to keep your family healthy and safe as well as details on our Family Health Program. THEP Lead and Health TrifoldDownload
- [Upper Columbia River Remedial Study (2012)](https://thep.ca/upper-columbia-river-remedial-study-2012/) - An update on the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study of the Upper Columbia River in the US. The Study is conducted under the oversight of the EPA, and with the participation of the State of Washington (Ecology), the U.S. Department of Interior, and the Colville & Spokane Tribes. Upper Columbia River Remedial Study (2012)Download
- [Fall 2018 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2018-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2018 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results as well as comparing results to previous years. Participation is voluntary and targeted Area 1, 2 & 3. The blood lead level geomean for Areas 2/3 was 2.9 µg/dL and 2.4 µg/dL for Area 1. This represents a significant reduction from previous years.
- [Trail Community Lead Task Force Final Report (2001)](https://thep.ca/trail-community-lead-task-force-final-report-2001/) - This report is an excellent resource for understanding the history of study and action on lead and other smelter-related metals in Trail, and the basis for the long-term recommendations that fostered the development of what is currently the Trail Area Health & Environment Program.
- [Knowledge sharing & learning tour of Teck Trail Operations and THEP activities in Trail.](https://thep.ca/knowledge-sharing-learning-tour-of-teck-trail-operations-and-thep-activities-in-trail/) - June 21-23, 2023 Co-hosted by the City of Trail and Teck Trail Operations, the purpose of the tour was to develop a shared understanding of the people, organizations and portfolio of work (regulated and non-regulated) taking place in Trail to support human health and well-being in a community influenced by smelter air emissions. Download Summary
- [THEC Presentation and Panel: Knowledge Sharing & Learning with lead smelting and mining communities in Australia](https://thep.ca/thec-presentation-and-panel-knowledge-sharing-learning-with-lead-smelting-and-mining-communities-in-australia/) - These knowledge sharing presentations are from two communities with lead smelting and/or mining in Australia were part of the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee regular meeting.
- [Air Quality Improvement Programs 2023 Update](https://thep.ca/2023-annual-air-quality-update/) - This report was provided on September 27th, 2023 by Keith Klimchuk and Danny Rioux (Teck) to the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC) on Teck Trail Operations’ air quality improvement programs from 2023. The report describes the fugitive dust and sulphur dioxide reduction programs. Teck-2023-Annual-AQ-UpdateDownload
- [Trail Area Health & Environment Program Abridgement 2015](https://thep.ca/trail-area-health-environment-program-abridgement-2015/) - This abridgement is a more concise version of the Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) document, highlighting information of greatest interest to the general public. Readers who prefer greater detail or who want to review the references and bibliography can click on the Trail Area Health & Environment Program document (2014). Environment Program AbridgementDownload
- [South Australia Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) visits Trail, B.C.](https://thep.ca/south-australia-environmental-protection-authority-epa-visits-trail-bc/) - June 20-22, 2022 The South Australia EPA visited Trail to learn what Teck and THEP are doing in the areas of health, air quality, soil management, community engagement and governance. Along with touring Teck Trail Operations and visiting sites in the community, an online gathering of representatives from Port Pirie and Broken Hill in Australia
- [THEC Meeting Minutes – June 15, 2023](https://thep.ca/thec-meeting-minutes-june-15-2023/) - THEC Meeting Minutes – June 15, 2023Download
- [Teck Trail Operations Fugitive Dust Project Update 2021](https://thep.ca/teck-trail-operations-fugitive-dust-project-update-2021/) - This is a report to the THEC on Teck Trail Operations' fugitive dust reduction program from 2021. It includes a description of fugitive dust with reduction progress to date and focuses on providing details from studies to mitigate the influence of weather on dust emissions.
- [Summary of Soil Amendment Testing at Trail, British Columbia (2000)](https://thep.ca/summary-of-soil-amendment-testing-at-trail-british-columbia-2000/) - This report recaps the first three phases of this work, which were conducted in the laboratory, and presents the results of the final soil amendment trials, which were conducted in the field. Find out whether in situ soil treatment was discovered to be a feasible approach to reducing the risk posed lead in Trail soils
- [Fall 2022 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2022-blood-lead-report/) - This document shows the results of the blood lead testing that occurred in the fall of 2022.
- [Media Release – 2023 Children’s Lead Levels Continue to Decline](https://thep.ca/media-release-2023-childrens-lead-levels-continue-to-decline/) - The results from the 2023 children’s blood lead testing clinic show that the average blood leadlevel for children aged six months to 36 months in Trail and Rivervale is 2.1 micrograms per decilitre. The downward trend continues with the average remaining below 3 since 2018. The Program is pleased to report participation has increased over
- [Fall 2023 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2023-blood-lead-report/) - This document shows the results of the blood lead testing that occurred in the fall of 2023.
- [Living and Thriving in Communities with Pb Smelters](https://thep.ca/living-and-thriving-in-communities-with-pb-smelters/) - Shared Learning Across Jurisdictions: a panel presentation at the annual AELERT conference in Sydney, Australia and online November 30, 2022 Co-hosted by the City of Trail and Teck Trail Operations, the purpose of the tour was to develop a shared understanding of the people, organizations and portfolio of work (regulated and non-regulated) taking place in
- [Teck Trail Operations Ambient SO<sub>2</sub> Reduction and Control Update 2022](https://thep.ca/teck-trail-operations-ambient-so2-reduction-and-control-update-2022/) - This is a report to THEC in June 2022 on Teck Trail Operations sulphur dioxide (SO2) reduction program and controls. It includes a description of sulphur dioxide in Trail and sources, Teck permits, emissions reduction progress as well as planning for further emissions reductions.
- [Teck Trail Operations Fugitive Dust Project Update 2022](https://thep.ca/teck-trail-operations-fugitive-dust-project-update-2022/) - This is a report to the THEC on Teck Trail Operations' fugitive dust reduction program from 2022. It includes a description of fugitive dust with reduction progress to date and provides information on current fugitive dust reduction initiatives.
- [Dust deposition work with South Australia Health](https://thep.ca/dust-deposition-work-with-south-australia-health/) - September 27, 2022 Razia Zariff of South Australia Health presented to THEP team members on Port Pirie’s soil deposition / recontamination study design. This was an online meeting. The information shared has been valuable input into a study THEP will undertake in Trail on assessing is managed soil has risk of recontamination from lead in
- [Fall 2023 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2023-newsletter/) - Find out about children’s Lead Testing Clinics in Trail. Meet Dr Karin Goodison, THEP's Medical Health Officer (MHO). Learn about THEP's pilot block soil management initiative. And try out a favourite recipe for kids: Apple Oat No-Bake Bites. Download
- [Spring 2023 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-newsletter-2023/) - See what's new and coming up for 2023. Read about THEP's 2022-2027 strategic plan and meet new members of THEC! Check out our Soil tips, FAQs and more. Download
- [Media Release – 2022 Children’s Lead Levels Continue to Decline](https://thep.ca/media-release-2022-childrens-lead-levels-continue-to-decline/) - The results from the 2022 children’s blood lead testing clinic show that the average blood lead level for children aged six to 36 months in Trail and Rivervale is 2.3 micrograms per decilitre. The downward trend continues with the average remaining below 3 since 2018 (2.5 in 2021, 2.3 in 2020, 2.6 in 2019 and
- [Fall 2022 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2022-newsletter/) - Find out about children's Lead Testing Clinics in Trail. Read about how THEP is leading the way and lowering blood lead levels in children. Meet our new THEC members and learn why nutrition is important in reducing lead (Pb) uptake with some food ideas for kids! Download
- [Hiring a Contractor](https://thep.ca/whattoexpectfromyourleadsafecontractor/) - If you are hiring a contractor, you want the job done right. For anyone hiring a contractor, you can use our checklist: What to Expect from Your Contractor as a guide to understand what a Lead safe contractor will do for you. Be sure to watch the Lead Safe Renovation Videos - “Made In Trail”!
- [Do-It-Yourself Renovation](https://thep.ca/diy/) - For homeowners and tenants doing their own work, we offer advice and support on how to be lead-safe. We also offer on-site visits to help set up your work area or demonstrate specific lead-safe techniques for your project. Watch the “Made In Trail” renovation videos that showcase Trail renovators demonstrating lead safe practices. We have
- [Spring 2022 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-2022-newsletter/) - Enter the Soil Management Program contest! Meet Steve Hilts and find out why he is a member of the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee. See what invasive plants to look out for in your garden. Find out how you can firesmart your home. Plus lead-safe tips and air quality faqs… Download
- [Fall 2008 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/blood-lead-levels-in-trail-fall-2008/) - This report shares the 2008 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary. Rates are provided by neighbourhood and area. The blood lead level geomean based on the 2008 fall clinic was 5.9 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air at different times of the year.
- [Fall 2010 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/blood-lead-levels-in-trail-fall-2010/) - This report shares the 2010 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary. Rates are provided by neighbourhood and area. The blood lead level geomean based on the 2010 fall clinic was 4.9 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air at different times of the year.
- [Fall 2021 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2021-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2021 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results and compares results to previous years. Participation is voluntary and includes Areas 1, 2 & 3. Participation was impacted by Covid cases and viral colds during clinic dates. The blood lead level geomean for Areas 2/3 was 2.5 µg/dL and 2.0 µg/dL for Area 1.
- [Fall 2020 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/blood-lead-levels-in-trail-fall-2020/) - This report shares the 2020 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results as well as comparing results to previous years. Participation is voluntary and targeted Area 1, 2 & 3. The blood lead level geomean for Areas 2/3 was 2.3 µg/dL and 2.0 µg/dL for Area 1. Mean blood lead levels are decreasing over time.
- [Fall 2019 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2019-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2019 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results as well as comparing results to previous years. Participation is voluntary and targeted Areas 2 & 3. The blood lead level geomean for Areas 2/3 was 2.6 µg/dL which is considered similar to 2018 results.
- [Fall 2017 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2017-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2017 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary and rates are provided by Area. The blood lead level geomean for Area 2/3 based on the fall clinic was 4.0 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air throughout the year.
- [Fall 2016 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2016-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2016 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary and rates are provided by Area. The blood lead level geomean for Area 2/3 based on the fall clinic was 4.3 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air throughout the year.
- [Fall 2015 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2015-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2015 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary and rates are provided by Area. All samples taken were venous. The blood lead level geomean for Area 2/3 was 4.5 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air throughout the year.
- [Fall 2014 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2014-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2014 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary and rates are provided by Area. The blood lead level geomean for Area 2/3 based on the fall clinic was 4.3 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air throughout the year.
- [Fall 2013 Blood Lead Results](https://thep.ca/fall-2013-blood-lead-results/) - This report shares the 2013 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary. The blood lead level geomean for Areas 2/3 was 6.1 µg/dL and 3.8 µg/dL for Area 1. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air were noticeably higher in August than typically.
- [Fall 2012 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2012-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2012 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary. Rates are provided by neighbourhood and area. The blood lead level geomean based on the 2012 fall clinic was 5.4 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air at different times of the year.
- [Fall 2011 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2011-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2011 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary. Rates are provided by neighbourhood and area. The blood lead level geomean based on the 2011 fall clinic was 5.0 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air at different times of the year.
- [Fall 2009 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2009-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2009 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary. Rates are provided by neighbourhood and area. The blood lead level geomean based on the 2009 fall clinic was 5.6 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air at different times of the year.
- [Fall 2007 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2007-blood-lead-report/) - This report shares the 2007 Children’s Blood Lead Clinic results. This includes participation rates, results, and environmental conditions. Participation is voluntary. Rates are provided by neighbourhood and area. The blood lead level geomean based on the 2007 fall clinic was 5.2 µg/dL. Environmental conditions refer to Pb in air at different times of the year.
- [Teck Trail Operations Fugitive Dust Project Update 2020](https://thep.ca/teck-trail-operations-fugitive-dust-project-update-2020/) - This is a report to the THEC on Teck Trail Operations' fugitive dust reduction program from 2020. It includes a description of fugitive dust and reduction progress to date, explains current administrative control initiatives in place, and discusses continuous improvement plans.
- [Teck Trail Operations Fugitive Dust Project Update 2019](https://thep.ca/teck-trail-operations-fugitive-dust-project-update-2019/) - This is a report to the THEC on Teck Trail Operations' 2019 fugitive dust reduction program. It includes a description of fugitive dust and why reduction is important, provides details around current initiatives such as wind fencing, onsite wheel washing, and real-time road dust monitoring. It provides ambient air monitoring results and project next steps.
- [Teck Fugitive Dust Project (2016)](https://thep.ca/teck-fugitive-dust-project-2016/) - This is a report to the THEC on Teck Trail Operations' fugitive dust reduction program from 2016. The report includes annual results of ambient air testing at Butler Park, an update on the Smelter Recycle Building construction, upgrades to the Roaster Pad, and an update around road sweeping and road flushing in the Trail area.
- [Media Release - 2021 Children's Lead Levels Remain Similar to Last Year](https://thep.ca/media-release-2021-childrens-lead-levels-remain-similar-to-last-year/) - Media Release - 2021 Children's Lead Levels Remain Similar to Last YearDownload
- [Sentinel Homes Report (1999)](https://thep.ca/trail-lead-program-sentinel-homes-report-1994-1998/) - Find out what was learned by monitoring 35 “sentinel” homes in Trail from 1994 through 1998. This monitoring network was set up mainly to enable measurement of the changes in lead levels in and around homes after the new lead smelter began operation in early 1997.
- [Early Childhood Development Literature Review (2014)](https://thep.ca/early-childhood-development-literature-review-2014/) - This review describes what has been published on the factors that influence early childhood development, the benefits and effectiveness of in-home visitation and community-based collaborative programs, and features of such programs that can promote health equity.
- [Trail Area IBD and Chronic Renal Disease Study (1994)](https://thep.ca/trail-area-ibd-crd-study-1994/) - This study, by the Epidemiology Section of BC Ministry of Health in 1994, examined rates of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and chronic renal disease (CRD) hospitalizations and deaths in Trail compared with the region. Findings showed Trail had lower rates of inflammatory bowel disease and similar rates of chronic renal disease compared to the Region.
- [Cancer Patterns in Trail and Area (1992)](https://thep.ca/cancer-patterns-in-the-trail-area-1992/) - This study by the Epidemiology Division of the BC Cancer agency concluded that cancer mortality data for 1956-1989 and cancer incidence data for 1983-1989 did not suggest that environmental contamination from smelter-related metals led to any increased risk of developing cancer during those timeframes.
- [HHRA Phase 4: Additional Data Collection and Probabilistic Risk Calculations (2008)](https://thep.ca/hhra-phase-4-additional-data-collection-and-probabilistic-risk-calculations/) - Learn whether substances other than lead pose a potential concern in Trail. This phase evaluated peoples’ exposures to a broader suite of metals than had been considered in previous phases. The conclusion was that risks were low and the potential concern to watch going forward was arsenic and cadmium concentrations in outdoor air.
- [HHRA Phase 3: Screening-Level Deterministic Risk Calculations, Revised (2000)](https://thep.ca/hhra-phase-3-screening-level-deterministic-risk-calculations-revised-2000/) - Learn whether substances other than lead pose a potential concern in Trail. This phase further evaluates risks associated with arsenic and cadmium, incorporating new data from air and indoor dust monitoring. The potential for adverse health effects from long-term residence in Trail was limited. Continued monitoring of air concentrations for arsenic and cadmium was recommended.
- [2019 Garden Produce Sampling Program: Analysis of Pb in Homegrown Produce in Trail, BC (2021)](https://thep.ca/2019-garden-produce-sampling-program-analysis-of-pb-in-homegrown-produce-in-trail-bc-2021/) - Andrea McCormick from the Trail Area Health & Environment Program’s Home & Garden team provides an overview of research on Pb (lead) and produce including an update on Pb levels of produce grown in Trail. The 2019 study on produce in Trail is available on thep.ca. This presentation is from 2021.
- [Phase 3 Investigation: In Situ Reduction of Lead Bioaccessibility in Soils (1999 - Draft)](https://thep.ca/phase-3-investigation-in-situ-reduction-of-lead-bioaccessibility-in-soils-trail-bc/) - This report covers the third phase of work to study whether the lead in Trail soils could be rendered less available to children by adding something to reduce its solubility in the human gastrointestinal tract. Learn how the third set of trials using phosphate, iron and other potential amendments were conducted, and what results suggested.
- [Phase 2 Investigation: In Situ Reduction of Lead Bioaccessibility in Soils (2000)](https://thep.ca/phase-2-investigation-in-situ-reduction-of-lead-bioaccessibility-in-soils-trail-bc-final/) - This report covers the second phase studying whether the lead in Trail soils could be rendered less available to children by adding something to reduce its solubility in the human gastrointestinal tract. Learn how the second set of bench-scale trials using phosphate, iron and pulp mill organic residual were conducted, and what the results suggested.
- [Effect of Interventions on Children's Blood Lead Levels (1998)](https://thep.ca/effect-of-interventions-on-childrens-blood-lead-levels-hilts-et-al/) - Find out whether the effects of a package of actions, including community education, in-home advice, and help with home-based dust control can be seen by examining children’s blood lead levels in the population.
- [Phase 1 Investigation: In Situ Reduction of Lead Bioaccessibility in Soils (1997)](https://thep.ca/phase-1-investigation-in-situ-reduction-of-lead-bioaccessibility-in-soils-trail-bc-draft-final/) - This report covers the first phase of work to study whether the lead in Trail soils could be rendered less available to children by adding something to reduce its solubility in the human gastrointestinal tract. Learn how the first bench-scale trials using phosphate were conducted, and what the results suggested.
- [Exposure Pathways Investigations (1995)](https://thep.ca/exposure-pathways-investigations-1995/) - Learn what were the key factors associated with higher blood lead levels in Trail children in 1994. This study involved a more comprehensive look at links between the environment and children, following up from the first such study in 1988.
- [HEPA House Cleaning Pilot Project (1994)](https://thep.ca/hepa-house-cleaning-pilot-project-1992/) - This study looked at whether regular (once every 6 weeks) thorough cleaning of floors using HEPA filter equipped vacuum cleaners would have a measurable effect on children’s blood lead levels. Fifty-five homes received the regular cleaning, while 56 homes did not.
- [Research Realities in Trail (1993)](https://thep.ca/research-realities-in-trail-hilts-1993/) - This paper describes the limitations and challenges of studies of children’s lead exposure. It argued that insistence on proof of effectiveness of each potential intervention prior to moving ahead would lead to inaction. A case was made for moving ahead, evaluating the package of actions using the trends in annual blood lead data for Trail.
- [Trail Lead Study Report (1990)](https://thep.ca/1989-trail-lead-study-report-hertzman-et-al/) - This study, conducted by UBC, laid the groundwork for the formation of the Trail Community Lead Task Force in 1990, and provided helpful guidance for the research and program development work through to 2000. Learn what the researchers discovered about the key factors affecting children’s lead exposure in Trail at that time.
- [Trail Area Health & Environment Program Document (2014)](https://thep.ca/trail-area-health-environment-program-document-2014/) - This document describes the five comprehensive programs of the Trail Area Health & Environment Program, during and following extensive public consultation in 2010. The components are: Air Quality; Family Health; Home and Garden; Property Development; Parks and Wildlands. The Program’s vision, mission, values, goals, and processes for governance, delivery, evaluation, and community engagement are described.
- [Program Strategy Report (2004)](https://thep.ca/program-strategy-report-2004/) - Learn how the first few years of the transition from Trail Community Lead Task Force (TCLTF) to Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC) went, as the THEC, Teck, Interior Health and City of Trail implemented the 2001 recommendations of the TCLTF.
- [Program Review Report (2000)](https://thep.ca/program-review-report/) - In 2000, the Trail Community Lead Task Force consulted with the local community and international experts as it worked to develop recommendations following 10 years of research, program development and monitoring. This report includes notes about the meeting content reviewed and Q&A, summarizes key discussion points, and presents proposed actions collated by the review group.
- [Trail IBD Summary 2018](https://thep.ca/trail-ibd-summary-2018/) - This analysis of data from 2003-2015 was completed by the BCCDC. This study looked at two forms of IBD, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and found rates of Crohn’s disease were higher in Trail from 2010-2015, compared with Interior Health (IH) as a whole. Rates of ulcerative colitis were the same for Trail and IH.
- [Trail IBD Summary 2013](https://thep.ca/trail-ibd-summary-2013/) - In 2013, a review of data for Trail was performed by the BC Center for Disease Control. IBD-related hospitalizations, physician visits and medication prescriptions for 2007-2011 were found to be higher for Trail residents, compared with several other communities, Interior Health and BC.
- [Addendum to the Phase 4 HHRA in response to ENV comments (2010)](https://thep.ca/addendum-to-the-phase-4-hhra-in-response-to-env-comments/) - This addendum contains a list of corrections/changes for the Phase 4 report, based on review comments from the BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (ENV). The corrections are mostly typographical errors. The changes have improved the clarity of the report, as suggested by ENV. The conclusions of the Phase 4 report are not impacted.
- [Human Health Risk Assessment Phase 4 Summary Report (2008)](https://thep.ca/human-health-risk-assessment-summary-report-2008/) - This report summarizes the series of reports on whether any substances other than lead pose a potential concern in the local environment at Trail. Phase 4 incorporated the most recent data and concluded risks were low. Actions to address residential soils with a focus on lead would further reduce risks from other smelter-related metals.
- [Acceptable Level of Human Health Risk Resulting from Smelter Contaminants in the Trail Area (Ames, 2001)](https://thep.ca/5350-2/) - This report responds to a request by Teck (then Cominco) as a “responsible person” under Section 18 of the BC Contaminated Sites Regulation for a formal recommendation on the acceptable level of human exposure and health risk for the site. Recommendations were prepared by the Medical Health Officer and transmitted to BC Ministry of Environment.
- [HHRA: Phase 2: Screening-level deterministic risk calculations (1998)](https://thep.ca/hhra-phase-2-screening-level-deterministic-risk-calculations-1998/) - Learn about whether any substances other than lead pose a potential concern in Trail. This phase eliminated five metals from further evaluation Risks from arsenic and cadmium were found to be low, but recommendations were made for further data collection and risk analysis for these remaining two metals of potential concern.
- [HHRA: Phase 1 Problem Formulation (1997)](https://thep.ca/5330-2/) - Learn about whether any substances other than lead pose a potential concern in the local environment at Trail. This is the first in a series of reports on the subject. Phase 1 identifies eight other metals to be assessed in the later phases.
- [Homeowners Guide to Soil Remediation](https://thep.ca/homeowners-guide-to-soil-remediation/) - Home Owners Guide to Soil Remediation 2021Download
- [Fall 2021 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2021-newsletter/) - Find out about children's Lead Testing Clinics in Trail, THEP’s public health nurses from past and present and a new childcare centre coming to Tadanac; plus FAQs and updates… Download
- [Review of Healthy Families Healthy Homes 2013-2019: What We Learned (2021)](https://thep.ca/review-of-healthy-families-healthy-homes-2013-2019-what-we-learned-2021/) - Review of Healthy Families Healthy Homes 2013-2019: What We Learned (2021)Download
- [Spring 2021 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-2021-newsletter/) - Read about growing food in Trail, see lead exposure pathways, meet the Kissock family and learn tips on home renovating; plus FAQs and updates… Download
- [Media Release – 2020 Children’s Lead Levels are the Lowest to Date](https://thep.ca/media-release-2020-childrens-lead-levels-are-the-lowest-to-date/) - Media Release - 2020 Children’s Lead Levels are the Lowest to DateDownload
- [Media Release – Children’s Blood Lead Testing Clinics Confirmed for September 2020](https://thep.ca/childrens-blood-lead-testing-clinics-confirmed-for-september-2020/) - The annual children’s blood lead testing clinics will take place in September. All children aged 6 -36 months in the Trail area , including Casino, Oasis, Rivervale, Waneta and Warfield are invited. See details in the PDF below. News Release – Children’s Blood Lead Testing Clinics Confirmed for SeptemberDownload
- [Soil Management Plan 2019](https://thep.ca/soil-management-plan-2019/) - 2019 Soil Management PlanDownload
- [Fall 2020 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2020-newsletter/) - Read first hand as community residents share their experience of working with the Soil Management Program; meet Councillor Cyra Yunkws THEC member from the Village of Warfield; plus FAQs, timelines, stats and more… Download
- [Spring 2020 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-2020-newsletter/) - Learn how you can keep the outdoor dust down and ensure your yard is healthy and safe. Test your eyes with our Healthy Home and Yard Spot the Difference activity. Download
- [Evaluation of Trail Homegrown Produce Consumption (2014)](https://thep.ca/evaluation-of-trail-homegrown-produce-consumption/) - Trail Produce HHRA Update_Aug21 DRAFT FINALDownload
- [THEP Newsletter - Winter 2002](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-winter-2002/) - Winter 2002Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Spring 2003](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-spring-2003/) - Spring 2003Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Summer 2005](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-summer-2005/) - Summer 2005Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Summer 2006](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-summer-2006/) - Summer 2006Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Summer 2007](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-summer-2007/) - Summer 2007Download
- [THEC Newsletter - Winter 2007](https://thep.ca/thec-newsletter-winter-2007/) - Winter 2007Download
- [THEC Newsletter - Fall 2008](https://thep.ca/thec-newsletter-fall-2008/) - The ‘dirt’ on soil in Trail, How to keep kids’ blood lead levels low. Fall 2008Download
- [THEC Newsletter - Winter 2008](https://thep.ca/thec-newsletter-winter-2008/) - Goals for children’s blood lead levels reached, Home renovations. Winter 2008Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Spring 2010](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-spring-2010/) - Spring 2010Download
- [THEP Newsletter - November 2010](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-november-2010/) - November 2010Download
- [THEP Newsletter - May 2012](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-may-2012/) - May 2012Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Fall 2011](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-fall-2011/) - This newsletter has a feature on the health risks from radon and how to test for it in your home. Fall 2011Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Spring 2012](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-spring-2012/) - This newsletter has information on home and garden events as well as tips for family health and home renovations. Spring 2012Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Fall 2012](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-fall-2012/) - Information on Fall Blood Lead clinics, new programs for expectant families and families with children under 12 months, and website launch announcement. Fall 2012Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Spring 2013](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-spring-2013/) - This newsletter has information on our home & garden events, a feature on our Community Program Office, gardening tips and information on supports for families with young children. Spring 2013Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Fall 2013](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-fall-2013/) - This newsletter has information on our in-home visits program, advice for when you are cleaning your gutters and mowing your lawn, plus an update on Teck's fugitive emissions reduction program. Fall 2013Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Spring 2014](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-spring-2014/) - This newsletter has information on where to get clean sand for your THEP sandbox, home renovation tips, and an update on Teck Trail Operations' fugitive dust reduction program. Spring 2014Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Fall 2014](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-fall-2014/) - This newlsetter has information on how to care for your Garden Kit, summer street washing in Rivervale, children's health and development events, and radon testing. Fall 2014Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Spring 2015](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-spring-2015/) - This newsletter has information on our Home & Garden events, programs for expectant families, lead-safe home renovation tips, tips for keeping the dust down over the summer, furnace filters, an update from the Family Action Network and more. Spring 2015Download
- [THEP Newsletter - Fall 2015](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-fall-2015/) - This newsletter has information on children's nutrition, keeping dust down when using leaf blowers, FAN Parent Conversation Cafes, and an update on Teck's emissions reduction projects. Fall 2015Download
- [THEP 2016 Spring Newsletter](https://thep.ca/thep-2016-spring-newsletter/) - This newsletter has information on the new Lead Safe Renovation Program, the summer 2016 Dust Mat Study, ordering a sandbox, programs for expectant families, and more. Spring 2016Download
- [Fall 2016 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2016-newsletter/) - This newsletter has information on radon testing, an Air Quality Update, the THEP public consultation, and a feature on Tiffany Armstrong, one of our THEC community reps. Fall 2016Download
- [Spring/Summer 2017 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/spring-summer-2017-newsletter/) - Check it out! New FREE Healthy Renovation Program; visit us at The Trail Market Family Zone; Trail Area Lead Safe Contractors. Spring/Summer 2017Download
- [Fall 2017 Newsletter](https://thep.ca/fall-2017-newsletter/) - Read articles on: Children’s Lead Testing, Decluttering to Reduce Dust, Radon Testing, Children’s Development Screening, and a Profile on Community Volunteer Member Marylynn Rakuson Fall 2017Download
- [THEP Newsletter Summer 2018](https://thep.ca/thep-newsletter-summer-2018/) - This newsletter has great lawn care tips, an update on air quality from Teck, a tasty smoothie recipe, a new project from the Family Action Network and more. Summer 2018Download
- [Media Release – 2014 THEC Renews Collaboration](https://thep.ca/thec-renews-collaboration/) - Health & Environment Committee Celebrates 25 Years with Renewed Collaboration SEPTEMBER 10, 2014 - The Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC) finalized its new ‘Trail Area Health & Environment Program’ document and signed a renewed commitment to continue its collaboration which has spanned 25 years. “The document describes THEC’s activities and initiatives, as well
- [Media Release - 2018 Children's Lead Levels are the Lowest to Date](https://thep.ca/news-release-2018-childrens-lead-levels-are-the-lowest-to-date/) - The results from the 2018 children's blood lead testing clinic show that the average blood lead level for children aged six-36 months in Trail and Rivervale is 2.9 micrograms per decilitre. BLL news release Apr 17, 2019Download
- [Media Release - 2019 Children's Blood Lead Testing](https://thep.ca/media-release-2019-childrens-blood-lead-testing/) - The results from the 2019 children’s blood lead testing clinic show that the average blood lead level for children aged six to 36 months in Trail and Rivervale is 2.6 micrograms per decilitre. 2019 Children's lead levels - Media ReleaseDownload
- [Media Release - 2017 Children's Lead Levels are the Lowest to Date](https://thep.ca/media-release-2017-childrens-lead-levels-are-the-lowest-to-date/) - Results from the THEC 2017 children’s blood lead testing clinic show lowest results in Children to date. Media Release 2017 Children's Lead Testing ResultsDownload
- [Medical Health Officer Report (2001)](https://thep.ca/medical-health-officer-report-2001/) - This 2001 report by (then) Medical Health Officer, Dr. Nelson Ames, assesses the human health risks from heavy metals in the Trail area. The report's conclusions start on page 15. (There is no Executive Summary.) Trail MHO ReportDownload
- [Public input summary of the 2019 Soil Management Program](https://thep.ca/public-input-summary-of-the-2019-soil-remediation-program/) - Summary of public perceptions of the 2019 soil management program. Community Survey Results SummaryDownload
- [For Contractors](https://thep.ca/for-contractors/) - We have a new opportunity for Contractors to set the example of being lead safe. If you are a contractor that works in the Trail Area, become a Trail Area Lead Safe Contractor in a few simple steps: Watch our Lead Safe Reno Videos to see how simple Lead Safe Renovation really is (you are
- [Soil Management Program Information Card](https://thep.ca/soil-management-program-information-card/) - THEP Info CardDownload
- [Health Tips Mini Posters](https://thep.ca/health-tips-mini-posters/) - A series of fridge magnets (and mini posters) designed to give you and your family some simple, quick tips to making sure your home and yard are healthy and safe. Health Tips Mini PostersDownload
- [Greening Your Garden](https://thep.ca/greening-your-garden/) - Tips to prevent lead exposure in your yard and garden. Rack CardDownload
- [Health tips full poster](https://thep.ca/health-tips-full-poster/) - A series of fridge magnets (and mini posters) designed to give you and your family some simple, quick tips to making sure your home and yard are healthy and safe. Health Tips posterDownload
- [THEP Organization Diagram](https://thep.ca/thep-organization-diagram/) - The organization and roles of the THEC, its subcommittees and THEP program delivery partners are summarized in the following organizational diagram. THEP Organization Diagram 2015Download
- [Program Diagram](https://thep.ca/program-diagram/) - This diagram visually illustrates THE Program's 5 areas of operation to improve health and the environment in the Trail area. Program Diagram 2013Download
- [General FAQ](https://thep.ca/general-faq/) - This information will answer many of the common or "frequently asked questions" people have about health risks from lead and other metals as well as the services available from THE Program. View Page
- [2016 Dust Mat Study Poster](https://thep.ca/2016-dust-mat-study-poster/) - This poster describes the summer 2016 Dust Mat Study and what it means to participate. Summer 2016 Dust Mat Study posterDownload
- [Fall 2013 Blood Lead Report](https://thep.ca/fall-2013-blood-lead-report/) - This document shows the results of the blood lead testing that occurred in the fall of 2013. Fall 2013 Blood Lead ReportDownload
- [Public Input Summary from Community Consultation](https://thep.ca/public-input-summary-from-community-consultation/) - Summary of public input from the Community Consultation conducted in 2010. 2010 Community Consultation Summary of Public Input PDFDownload
- [Trail Area Lead Safe Contractors](https://thep.ca/contractor-list/) - Name: Rob WoroszPhone: 250-368-1433Phone: 250-362-3375Services: Excavation, Landscaping, ConstructionWebsite: www.alpinecontracting.com Name: Lance SiebertPhone: 250-231-9173Services: General Contracting, Renovation and Roofing Name: Ron’s Roofing Contact: Ron SperoPhone: 250-921-9328 Email: ronspero22@hotmail.comServices: Roofing repairs & maintenance
- [Video 7: Roofing](https://thep.ca/video-7/) - Roofing is a dusty job, especially old roofs with layers of old shingles. Watch Kolina and Tyler show the best ways to keep dust down on a roofing project, including using an outdoor misting station to suppress dust on the roof and beside the debris pile. “Made in Trail” Lead Safe Renovation Videos Video 1
- [Video 6: Soil Excavation](https://thep.ca/video-6/) - Shelley-Anne and Kyle need to landscape their yard: their dog is digging up the lawn and they want a play space for their son, Miller. In this video, they show the best practices to keep dust down when excavating soil. The bottom line: watch the video and contact our office at 250 368-3256 or programs@thep.ca
- [Video 5: Outdoor Projects](https://thep.ca/video-5/) - Keeping dust down on outdoor jobs requires a bit of creativity but isn’t hard to do. Watch Peggy and Mitch set up an outdoor project area and work safely to remove some old, chipping lead-based paint. “Made in Trail” Lead Safe Renovation Videos Video 1 | Video 2 | Video 3 | Video 4 |
- [Video 4: Flooring Removal](https://thep.ca/video-4/) - Vanessa has a plan to remove the old carpets in her apartment…and she knows how to do it safely. Using a spray bottle and HEPA filtered shop vacuum, Vanessa shows how to keep dust down while removing flooring and cleaning up after! She outlines two ways to remove dusty old carpets to a secure outdoor
- [Video 3: Indoor Projects](https://thep.ca/video-3/) - Jaylene and Richard show the best ways to safely complete an interior renovation and demolition project. The first step: Keep the kids out of the project area! Demolition is a key time to keep dust down. This video shows you how to set up the space, stay safe around lead-based paint, store debris and clean
- [Video 2: Setting up Indoor Work Areas](https://thep.ca/video-2/) - Liz and Eric demonstrate how to set up a work area to keep dust out of the rest of the house. Keeping dust out of non-project areas protects people from exposure to lead and helps make clean-up much easier. Liz and Eric will make a flapped entry door and also show how to seal off
- [Video 1: Lead Risks from Renovations](https://thep.ca/video-1/) - Mike, Lisa, Stella and Frankie know they need to be lead safe when renovating their home to protect their family from lead dust. This video points out the risks from lead during renovations and introduces the keys to a lead safe renovation. “Made in Trail” Lead Safe Renovation Videos Video 1 | Video 2 |
- [Bridget Kivell](https://thep.ca/bridget-kivell/) - We have used THE Program in a few ways since moving to Trail. When we first moved here we had a 10 month old child and living near the smelter made me nervous. My fears were put to rest when the family health nurse came to my house and went over the steps I could
- [Clare Dewitt](https://thep.ca/clare-dewitt/) - THEP is an invaluable resource to our community. As a parent, it is reassuring to know there is an organization set up with one central goal, to help make Trail a safe and healthy community to raise a family. I recommend all families in Trail including newly relocated and long-term residents to get involved, or
- [Heather Woods](https://thep.ca/heather-woods/) - We have been tested every 6 months since moving to the area. The staff are welcoming, understanding and make the process as fast and painless as possible. My daughter barely minds the poke!
- [Carla Plotnikoff](https://thep.ca/carla-plotnikoff/) - …it turns out that lead testing is very quick and well done. I won’t be as worried for re-checks. And the ‘presents’ afterwards help.

## Pages

- [Home](https://thep.ca/) - Sign Up for soil testing. Book a Healthy Home or Healthy Families visit. Text 250-231-5945. Call for Lead Safe Renovation Supplies. 250-368-3256
- [About the Program](https://thep.ca/about-the-program/) - Community is the heart and purpose for everything THEP does. Soil Residential yards and gardens Parks and playgrounds Property development Health Education Healthy families in-home and in-daycare visits Children’s blood lead testing Enhanced Healthy Family Supports Air Smelter emissions reduction Dust control Air monitoring Air quality working group Built EnvironmentsEducation and community outreachHealthy homes and
- [Videos](https://thep.ca/videos/) - Videos Add a header to begin generating the table of contents Lead Safe Renovation "Made in Trail" Series Trailer We strongly encourage you to watch Getting Started on a Lead Safe Renovation first before checking out the different projects. It will give you key information to become your own lead safety expert, able to problem-solve
- [Residential Yards & Gardens](https://thep.ca/programs/soil/residential-yards-gardens/) - Residential Yards & Gardens Bare soil in yards and gardens is a source of dust and may contain lead. Ensure your yard is healthy and safe.​ Sign Up for soil testing For most people, there is little risk from exposure to lead in soil, especially when soil is covered by grass or mulch. For children,
- [Air Quality Program: Lead (Pb)](https://thep.ca/programs/air-quality/lead-pb/) - Lead (Pb) Lead is a naturally occurring element found in small amounts in the earth’s crust, and was commonly used in products such as paint and gasoline. Traces of lead can be found everywhere. When Trail formed in the 1890s, it grew around one of the largest operating lead and zinc smelters in the world.
- [Community of Practice:](https://thep.ca/learning-together/community-of-practice/) - Knowledge sharing & learning for communities with lead smelting Communities that live in close proximity to operating lead smelting facilities share unique challenges when working toward the goal of thriving families, environment and economy. This includes reducing exposure to metals and other emissions that have the potential to impact the community. There is often a
- [Checkout](https://thep.ca/checkout/)
- [Cart](https://thep.ca/cart/)
- [Instructor Registration](https://thep.ca/instructor-registration/)
- [Student Registration](https://thep.ca/student-registration/)
- [Dashboard](https://thep.ca/dashboard/)
- [Lead Safe Renovation](https://thep.ca/programs/built-environments/lead-safe-renovation/) - Lead Safe Renovation is EASY! DIY Renovators Hiring Help Why is Lead Safe Renovation Important? Homes built before 1990 may have lead in paint. Lead in paint is a hazard when it’s chipping, peeling or disturbed during renovations. Renovations stir up dust, and in homes built before 1990, can expose people to lead. Keeping dust
- [Learning Together](https://thep.ca/learning-together/) - Learning Together Sharing knowledge and learning are important for THEP to access innovative science and programming. Not only does it help THEP stay up-to-date with the latest advancements, but it also benefits other communities facing similar challenges. THEP values relationships it has formed in B.C. and internationally and regularly hosts or attends meetings and events
- [Links](https://thep.ca/links/) - Trail Area Health & Environment Committee Partners BC Ministry of Environment and Parks City of Trail Interior Health Teck Trail Operations— Wide Area Remediation Plan (WARP) Local Government and Community Partners Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy Family Action Network Regional District of Kootenay Boundary Trail FAIR Society Village of Warfield Additional Resources Creating Healthy Home
- [Community Consultation](https://thep.ca/community-consultation/) - The Trail Area Health & Environment Committee and Program consults residents to learn what is important to the community and to solicit feedback on existing programs. Your comments are welcome anytime. Comments Past Surveys Healthy Families Healthy Homes Feedback- 2023-2024Download Healthy Families Healthy Homes Feedback- 2020-2022Download Public Perceptions of Soil Management of Residential Yards in
- [Governance & History](https://thep.ca/governance/) - Governance The Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC) is a Select Committee of Trail City Council. It was established in 2001 by the Trail Lead Task Force which conducted research on the issues for 10 years prior. Its mandate is to be a transparent platform for multistakeholder dialogue, collective decision-making and community engagement specific
- [Parents and Caregivers](https://thep.ca/programs/health/parents-caregivers/) - Parents & Caregivers Parents and caregivers with children aged three and under can get in-home and daycare visits to learn how to reduce exposure for young children, and receive supplies to reduce indoor dust. THEP supports the community of Trail and nearby areas to live, work and play in an area influenced by smelter air
- [Expecting Parents](https://thep.ca/programs/health/expecting-parents/) - Expecting Parents Prevention of lead exposure is possible and simple actions can reduce your babies’ risk of lead exposure. Lead exists in all communities however, there is more lead in Trail than a town without a lead smelter. Lead is a naturally occurring element found in small amounts in the earth’s crust, and was commonly
- [Air Quality Program: Sulphur Dioxide (SO<sub>2</sub>)](https://thep.ca/programs/air-quality/air-quality-program-sulphur-dioxide-so2/) - Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) Sulphur dioxide is a colourless, reactive gas. It can be a by-product of industrial operations, such as the metal processing that occurs at Teck’s Trail smelter. When sulphur dioxide levels are elevated, consider staying indoors. You can see real-time data online. It’s a good idea to also reduce other sources of sulphur
- [Air Quality](https://thep.ca/programs/air-quality/) - AIR The Air Quality Program works to improve air quality in the community through emissions reductions, air quality monitoring, and community dust control. Air Quality Program activities work together to get the best results – lower exposure, lower health risks, and a healthier environment. Emissions reductions from Teck Trail Operations Dust control in the community
- [Login](https://thep.ca/login/)
- [Soil](https://thep.ca/programs/soil/) - Soil Managing metal contaminated soil in a risk-based and prioritized way. For most people, there is little risk from exposure to lead in soil, especially when soil is covered by grass or mulch. For children, bare soil can increase exposure to lead, and contribute to elevated lead levels in blood. To reduce the risk of
- [Trail and Area Residents](https://thep.ca/programs/health/trail-area-residents/) - Living in trail Trail is a great place to live, work, play and raise a family. Trail is home to one the world’s largest lead and zinc smelting and refining facilities. The smelter is a major employer and economic driver for people living in Trail and the surrounding areas. Over the past 30 years, operational
- [Built Environments](https://thep.ca/programs/built-environments/) - Built Environments Renovations and homes built before 1990 can be a source of lead through disturbed dust and old peeling paint. Homes built before 1990 may contain lead in paint. Lead in paint is a hazard when it’s chipping, peeling or disturbed during renovations. Renovations stir up dust, and in homes built before 1990, can
- [Health Care Workers](https://thep.ca/programs/health/health-care-workers/) - Health care workers The Trail Area Health & Environment Program is a comprehensive, collaborative, science-based program to help keep children and families healthy and safe. We are a resource for Health Professionals. We offer primary prevention in-home visits to families with children under three years of age (or expectant parents) in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale,
- [Health](https://thep.ca/programs/health/) - Health Primary prevention is the most effective way to prevent lead exposure in young children. Because of historical emissions from the smelter, there may be lead in soil and dust in the Trail area. Exposure to lead can affect healthy development in children. THEP works with families to limit children’s exposure to lead. For Parents
- [Homeowners Guide to Soil Management](https://thep.ca/homeowners-guide-to-soil-management/) - Homeowners Guide to Soil Management Soil management is one way to reduce exposure to metals in your home and yard environment. THEP soil management began in 2007 and thousands of yards have since been tested and hundreds have received soil management. Download guide (PDF) The soil management process Soil management plans are unique to each
- [Property Development](https://thep.ca/programs/soil/property-development/) - Property Development Managing metal contaminated soils during development and construction. THEP works with property developers to assess and, if required, manage soil during construction. This includes the safe excavation, handling and disposal of soil. If construction involves any soil excavation or movement of soil, please fill out a property development application found here. To learn
- [Parks](https://thep.ca/programs/soil/parks/) - Parks Parks, playgrounds, child-care facilities, and schools in Trail have also been assessed. Ground cover is very good in our schools, parks, and playgrounds, but if you notice poor ground cover in these places, please Contact Us Common questions about parks in the Trail Area What is THEP soil management? THEP soil management begins with
- [Events & Meetings](https://thep.ca/events-meetings/)
- [Program Area](https://thep.ca/about-the-program/program-area/) - Program Area The Trail Area Health & Environment Program provides services in Trail and the surrounding areas in priority order.
- [Contact](https://thep.ca/contact/) - Contact Our Community Program Office The Community Program Office is the main contact for the program. 250-368-3256 programs@thep.ca 1319 Bay Avenue, Trail V1R 4A7 Contact by Program Residential Programs Residential Soils, Lead Safe Renovation and Healthy Homes 1319 Bay Avenue, Trail V1R 4A7 250-368-3256 ext 53257 programs@thep.ca HealthTrail Lead Health Services CoordinatorInterior HealthKiro Wellness Centre1500
- [Privacy](https://thep.ca/privacy/) - Privacy The Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) is committed to providing websites that respect the privacy of visitors. This privacy notice summarizes the privacy practices for the THEP’s online activities. All personal information collected by this institution is governed by the Privacy Act. This means that you will be informed of the purpose
- [Home Visit Request Received](https://thep.ca/home-visit-request-received/) - Thank you, we have received your request and will be in touch about your home visit request.​ We have sent you a confirmation via email please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive it and do not hesitate to contact us directly if you have any questions or concerns. Preventing ingestion is the
- [Your application for soil testing is being reviewed](https://thep.ca/soil-testing-application-confirmation/) - Our aim is to respond to all soil testing requests within the field season (April-October). A member from the program will be in contact with you regarding the next steps. We have sent you a confirmation via email please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive it and do not hesitate to contact
- [Knowledge Base](https://thep.ca/docs/)
- [Form | Lead Safe Renovation Online Registration](https://thep.ca/form-lead-safe-renovation-online-registration/)
- [Recover Password](https://thep.ca/recover-password/)
- [Form | Consent to Access Property for Residential Yard Assessment](https://thep.ca/form-consent-to-access-property-for-residential-soil-assessment/)
- [Form | Yard improvement services access consent](https://thep.ca/form-yard-improvement-services-access-consent/)
- [Form | Book a Home Visit](https://thep.ca/form-book-a-home-visit/)
- [Form | Consent to access property for residential soil remediation and/or yard improvement work](https://thep.ca/form-consent-to-access-property-for-residential-soil-remediation-and-or-yard-improvement-work/)
- [Form | Contact Wendy](https://thep.ca/form-contact-wendy/)
- [Programs](https://thep.ca/programs/)

## Documentation

- [What have we achieved for children’s health?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-have-we-achieved-for-childrens-health/) - Our program has been working with Trail area families since 1989. Blood lead levels in Trail pre-school children have dropped significantly, from an average of 13.5 in 1989 to 2.3 micrograms per decilitre (µg/dL) in 2025. Year to year variability in blood lead levels is influenced by lead levels in community air, weather conditions, the
- [Why are you remediating an entire block in this neighbourhood when some properties in other neighbourhoods are still waiting for soil replacement?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/why-are-you-remediating-an-entire-block-in-this-neighbourhood-when-some-properties-in-other-neighbourhoods-are-still-waiting-for-soil-replacement/) - The Block Initiative is an addition to the Soil Management Program and is not replacing soil management at priority properties. All priority properties will be offered soil management in 2023, including those with difficult access for equipment. THEP is trying out alternative solutions and equipment to provide soil management at prioritized properties with access limitations.
- [What is THEP’s soil management block initiative?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-theps-soil-management-block-initiative/) - It is an initiative to provide soil management to all yards within a city block.
- [There are kids on my block and kids spend time in my yard. Why didn’t you select it for the block initiative?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/there-are-kids-on-my-block-and-kids-spend-time-in-my-yard-why-didnt-you-select-it-for-the-block-initiative/) - All blocks were considered for the block initiative and were prioritized based on child occupancy and lead levels in the soil. If your block has a relatively high number of children and elevated soil lead levels, it may be a candidate for a future block program. Other considerations that may factor into the selection of
- [Why was my block not chosen? How do I get on the list for the block initiative?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/why-was-my-block-not-chosen-how-do-i-get-on-the-list-for-the-block-initiative/) - All blocks were considered for the block initiative and were prioritized based on child occupancy and lead levels in the soil. If you have not had your soil assessed, consider getting it tested this year so the information is included for potential future block initiatives.
- [When will my block be selected?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/when-will-my-block-be-selected/) - Soil management of entire city blocks is a initiative in 2023. The process and outcomes will be monitored to determine if this should be repeated in future years.
- [How have you selected the blocks for the initiative?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/how-have-you-selected-the-blocks-for-the-initiative/) - Blocks were evaluated using THEP’s existing soil management prioritization criteria, with a focus on children and known lead levels in the soil. Ground cover, accessibility for equipment and willingness of the neighbourhood to participate are other considerations that may factor into block selection.
- [Why are you carrying out the block initiative now?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/why-are-you-carrying-out-the-pilot-block-initiative-now/) - THEP’s Soil Management Program addresses individual properties in priority order and in recent years has been able to offer soil management to all priority properties identified. THEP now has capacity to trial soil management at the city block scale. Research shows that neighbourhood-wide soil management is an effective way to reduce community exposure to lead
- [Material Supports for Area 1 (September 30, 2025)](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/material-supports-for-area-1-september-30-2025/) - The purpose of this internal Q&A is to document changes in program offerings in Area 1 and provide THEP team members and IH shared language to reference when speaking with families in Area 1. Download the following questions as a document (PDF)Download Questions: Why are families with young children in Area 1 now receiving a
- [What studies have been done in Trail investigating Pb exposure for pregnant women and newborns?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-studies-have-been-done-in-trail-investigating-lead-exposure-for-pregnant-women-and-newborns/) - The Trail Community Lead Task Force did a study of the blood lead levels of pregnant women and their newborns born in Trail from November 1993 to December 1995. This was a time when children’s blood lead levels in Trail were more than four times higher than they are today. Key findings from that study
- [History of THRC and pathway / transition to present (Dr. Karin Goodison). ](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/history-of-thrc-and-pathway-transition-to-present-dr-karin-goodison/) - The Trail Health Review Committee (THRC) was initiated by the Provincial Health Officer in response to a request from then Chief MHO and the portfolio MHO from Interior Health. The pandemic interrupted this group and upon resumption of the work, many staffing changes had occurred at IH, at ENV, and some changes at MoH. After
- [What are the potential effects of elevated blood lead levels in children later in life?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-are-the-potential-effects-of-elevated-blood-lead-levels-in-children-later-in-life/) - The effects of lead exposure depend on a child’s age at the time of exposure, the dose and duration, and other health or environmental factors. Children may not show signs of lead toxicity until years later—often when academic or behavioral demands increase in school. Even low levels of lead can harm brain development and cognitive
- [Who regulates Teck with respect to SO<sub/>2</sub>?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/who-regulates-teck-with-respect-to-so2/) - Teck Trail Operations operates under permits established by the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks (ENV).
- [Where is lead (Pb) in air monitored?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/where-is-pb-in-air-monitored/) - Teck conducts the following monitoring in the community: Measures of lead, arsenic and other particles in the air are taken at two testing locations in the Lower Columbia: Butler Park and Birchbank. Readings are taken over 24-hour periods. This information is collected and analyzed by Teck’s environment staff and reported to the Ministry of Environment
- [Who regulates Teck’s lead (Pb) emissions?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/who-regulates-tecks-pb-emissions/) - Teck smelter’s aerial emissions (stack and fugitive) are regulated under permits issued by the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks (ENV).
- [Who sits on the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC)?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/who-sits-on-the-trail-area-health-environment-committee-thec/) - Membership on the Committee aims to include those with a potential interest in the activities of THEP, and shall consist of: The City of Trail Mayor, or a designate from city council, who shall act as Chair 1 member of Trail City Council, who shall act as alternate Chair 1 member appointed by the following
- [What exactly does each area of THEP focus on?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-exactly-does-each-area-of-thep-focus-on/) - Air includes smelter emissions reductions, air monitoring and community dust control. Teck leads and oversight is by the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks (ENV) where regulation is involved. Community dust control is implemented by the City of Trail. Soil includes residential yards and gardens, parks and greenspaces, and property development within the Environmental Management
- [Who are the THEP partners?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/who-are-the-thep-partners/) - The Program partners are the City of Trail, Teck Trail Operations, Interior Health, and the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks. Together they work toward shared objectives and goals with respect to improvements in knowledge, awareness, and health related to lead and sulphur dioxide.
- [Are you only doing the soil program because the Ministry of Environment told you to?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/are-you-only-doing-the-soil-program-because-the-ministry-of-environment-told-you-to/) - No, THEP and its predecessor programs have been offering soil management since the 1990s, increasingly since 2008 with more recent expansion in 2019. Annual soil management plans have been submitted to the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy (renamed B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks in 2025) since 2019. Teck has been working for
- [What is the Environmental Management Area?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-is-the-environmental-management-area/) - The B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks has defined an area for a future Wide Area Remediation Plan called the Teck Trail Environmental Management Area (EM Area). An EM Area defines a geographic area that contains specified contaminants from one specific source and where properties within the area would likely be contaminated with one or
- [What is a Wide Area Remediation Plan and what does it mean for the Trail area?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-a-wide-area-remediation-plan-and-what-does-it-mean-for-the-trail-area/) - A Wide Area Remediation Plan (WARP) is defined in the B.C. Contaminated Sites Regulation as "a remediation plan for an environmental management area for one or more specific substances which have originated from one or more sources specified in the plan". Teck is working with the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks on a WARP
- [Why is my yard not being addressed when my neighbour's property is?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/why-is-my-yard-not-being-addressed-when-my-neighbours-property-is/) - THEP's Soil Management Program uses a prioritization framework accepted by the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks. Properties are addressed in priority order according to a predetermined risk-based criteria. The priority is based on the age of children living on the property, the soil lead levels, and quality of ground cover. While theoretically it may
- [Will all properties with contaminated soil be addressed eventually?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/will-all-properties-with-contaminated-soil-be-addressed-eventually/) - Teck is working with the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks to develop and seek approval for a long-term soil management plan called a Wide Area Remediation Plan, which will over time address all properties within THEP's Soil Management Area. Some properties will require no action.
- [Can you address the soil on my property sooner?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/can-you-address-the-soil-on-my-property-sooner/) - The program follows an approved framework by the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks that must be adhered to each year. The properties are addressed in priority order according to a pre-determined risk evaluation framework. This is based on the age of children living on the property, the soil lead levels and quality of ground
- [Who is paying for soil management?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/who-is-paying-for-soil-management/) - All soil assessment and improvement work is coordinated by the Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) and paid for by Teck. There is no cost to the landowner for soil testing and management of smelter-sourced contamination. Teck is the responsible party for the Soil Management Program under the direction of the B.C. Ministry of
- [What are the regulatory standards that this plan is based on?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-are-the-regulatory-standards-that-this-plan-is-based-on/) - Annual Soil Management Plans are interim plans, conducted under the direction of the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks as per the Contaminated Sites Regulation of the Environmental Management Act. Teck is working with the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks to develop and seek approval for a long-term soil management plan, called a Wide
- [Why is a soil management plan necessary?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/why-is-a-soil-management-plan-necessary/) - A soil management plan is necessary because metallurgical facilities have been operating in Trail for well over a century. Historical aerial emissions from these facilities have resulted in the addition of metals, including lead, into the soil in the surrounding area. As a result, soil in the Environmental Management Area around Trail is likely to
- [What is the Soil Management Program?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-the-soil-management-program/) - The Soil Management Program includes soil testing and, in qualifying yards, management (improvements to ground cover or replacement of soil) on a prioritized basis. Given the large number of households in THEP's Soil Management Area, assessments are prioritized based on the presence of children under 12 within areas that are known to have the highest
- [THEP Report Templates](https://thep.ca/docs/style-guide-and-templates/thep-reports/) - - THEP Report Template 2025 – General (dotx)Download THEP Report Template 2025 - Air Quality (dotx)Download THEP Report Template 2025 - Health (dotx)Download
- [THEC Letterhead Template](https://thep.ca/docs/style-guide-and-templates/thec-letterhead/) - THEC Letterhead Template 2025 (dotx)Download
- [THEP Letterhead Template](https://thep.ca/docs/style-guide-and-templates/thep-letterhead/) - THEP Letterhead Template 2025 (dotx)Download
- [THEP Visual Identity Guidelines](https://thep.ca/docs/style-guide-and-templates/thep-visual-identity-guidelines/) - THEP Visual Identity Style Guide Published January 9, 2025Download
- [THEP and THEC Logo Packages](https://thep.ca/docs/style-guide-and-templates/thep-and-thec-logo-packages/) - Logos THEP Logos PackageDownload THEC Logos PackageDownload THEP and THEC Icon PackageDownload
- [THEP Presentation Template (PPT)](https://thep.ca/docs/style-guide-and-templates/thep-presentation-ppt/) - THEP Presentation Template 2024 (ppt)Download
- [What is THEP Diagram](https://thep.ca/docs/style-guide-and-templates/what-is-thep-diagram/) - Download What is THEP Diagram (jpg)Download
- [What are the SO<sub>2</sub> levels in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-are-the-so2-levels-in-trail/) - Actual ambient SO2 concentrations in Trail fluctuate throughout the day, month and year. This chart calculates the total hours of SO2 measured in community air (by monitoring station) in 2023. For actions to take at different levels, see docs 7. Although levels fluctuate, monitoring data from recent years exceed the benchmarks for ambient air quality
- [Are my pets safe from lead in soil?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/are-my-pets-safe-from-lead-in-soil/) - Yes, your pets are safe from lead in soil. The main route of lead exposure for pets, like children, is through ingestion. Based on published research that outlines how much lead a pet would need to ingest to negatively impact health, it is unlikely that pets could consume enough soil from the Trail area to
- [Who is at highest risk of lead (Pb) exposure?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/who-is-at-highest-risk-of-pb-exposure/) - Young children are at highest risk of lead (Pb) exposure and its effects because: They often put their hands and objects in their mouths. They sometimes swallow non-food items. Their bodies absorb lead at a higher rate. Their brains are developing quickly. Pregnant women exposed to lead can pass it to the baby. Lead can
- [How does lead enter the body? ](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/how-does-lead-enter-the-body/) - According to the US Centre for Disease Control, ingestion is the main route of exposure to lead (Pb) for children, and the route that most commonly leads to elevated blood lead levels. This is true for any community and is not specific to communities with a lead smelter. Children are at greater risk of ingesting
- [What is Teck doing to reduce lead (Pb) emissions?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-is-teck-doing-to-reduce-pb-emissions/) - Over the past 30 years, there have been significant improvements in community air quality and over $1.7 billion has been invested in a modernization program to improve operational and environmental performance at Teck Trail Operations. Since the installation of the KIVCET Smelter in 1997 and subsequent operations improvements at Teck Trail Operations, there has been
- [How does Teck Trail Operations use data to manage lead (Pb) levels in air in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/how-does-teck-trail-operations-use-data-to-manage-pb-levels-in-air-in-trail/) - Every hour, analyzers measure metals concentrations at Butler Park and Duncan Flats. Near real-time data is transmitted to Teck Trail Operations’ process control systems. If lead (Pb) levels begin to rise, plants at Teck Trail Operations are automatically notified so that actions can be taken to reduce Pb emissions.
- [What are the amounts of Pb in outdoor air in Trail and what are the applicable standards? ](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-are-the-pb-in-air-levels-in-trail/) - The amount of lead (Pb) in outdoor air in Trail is measured at two locations, Butler Park and Birchbank. Data from Butler Park, a park in the heart of the community and closest to the smelter, is shown in Figure 1 indicated by the blue line. At this time, Federal and BC Provincial governments do not
- [What is lead (Pb) in airborne dust and how does it affect the community? ](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-is-lead-pb-in-airborne-dust-and-how-does-it-affect-the-community/) - Dust particles present in smelter emissions contain lead (Pb). Dust particles in the air that contain Pb is referred to as ‘lead in airborne dust’. This lead in airborne dust may travel from the smelter site and settle in the community as part of the dust and soil. In Trail, lead in airborne dust originating at
- [Why do we have lead (Pb) in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/why-do-we-have-pb-in-trail/) - In addition to lead (Pb) contributions from historical use of products such as lead-based paint and leaded gasoline, Trail is home to one of the world’s largest Pb and zinc smelting and refining facilities, in operation for over one hundred years. Dust particles present in smelter emissions contain Pb. During operations, these particles can settle on surfaces in the Trail area as
- [If I have a concern about air quality or health, who do I contact?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/if-i-have-a-concern-about-air-quality-or-health-who-do-i-contact-2/) - Residents who have concerns about air quality are encouraged to call the Teck Community and Environment Feedback line at (250) 364-4817, a phone line answered 24 hours a day. If you have a health concern specific to lead exposure, please contact THEP Family Health Services at the Kiro Wellness Centre 250-364-5945 or text your public
- [How does Pb affect my health?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/how-does-pb-affect-my-health/) - Lead exposure can have detrimental effects on early childhood development and children’s future outcomes. Lead is most harmful to children younger than age 6 and especially those younger than age 3. During pregnancy, small amounts of lead can sometimes pass from a mother to her baby. It’s also possible for lead to be passed to
- [What actions can I take to reduce my family’s exposure to lead in dust?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-actions-can-i-take-to-reduce-my-familys-exposure-to-lead-in-dust/) - Primary prevention is the most effective way to prevent lead exposure. Actions you can take to reduce the risk of lead exposure include: Wash your hands and your children’s hands especially before eating and after playing outdoors. Eat foods that have enough iron and other vitamins and minerals. A person who eats a balanced, nutritious
- [What is fugitive dust and how is it being managed at the smelter?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-is-fugitive-dust-and-how-is-it-being-managed-at-the-smelter/) - Fugitive dust is an air quality term used to describe an emission which does not pass through a stack. At the smelter in Trail, this is dust that escapes the smelter site from stockpiles, open handling of materials, buildings and vehicle traffic. Fugitive dust is not stack emissions. Fugitive dust is a source of lead
- [What support can I receive as a senior that may have lead in paint in my home?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/what-support-can-i-receive-as-a-senior-that-may-have-lead-based-paint-exposure-in-my-home/) - Lead in paint is in many pre-1990 homes in many communities. Lead in paint is only a risk when the paint is chipping, flaking, crushed or sanded into dust. THEP provides information and education to property owners and families about lead in paint, in and around the home environment, with the goal to reduce children’s
- [What should I do if lead is detected in paint in my home?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/what-should-i-do-if-lead-is-detected-in-paint-in-my-home/) - Sometimes it's safest to leave paint undisturbed as long as it's in good condition. Paint that is peeling, flaking, chipping or regularly disturbed through normal wear-and-tear, such as paint on doors, windows, stairs, and railings, can expose you and your children to lead. Whenever you disturb surfaces with lead in paint, you risk creating hazardous
- [What about paint on the exterior of my home?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/what-about-paint-on-the-exterior-of-my-home/) - Exterior paint on homes older than 1990 may contain lead. Sometimes leaving lead in paint alone is safer than removing it, as long as it is not chipping or within the reach of children. THEP’s soil assessment includes exterior paint testing for lead as of May 2023. Due to the high volume of requests, properties
- [I’ve had my soil tested/replaced. Can I still have my paint tested for lead?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/ive-had-my-soil-tested-replaced-can-i-still-have-my-paint-tested-for-lead/) - THEP is conducting paint testing on all properties identified for soil management in priority order. Properties that have received soil management in previous years should contact the community program office to be added to the list of properties to be tested.
- [Does THEP carry out lead abatement services?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/does-thep-carry-out-lead-abatement-services/) - THEP works with the community to provide information and education about lead in paint to reduce children’s potential exposure to lead. The program does not include removing lead in paint from homes. The program does provide lead-safe renovation supplies for DIY renovations in the Trail area. We’ve put together videos you can use to learn
- [Why is THEP doing lead in paint testing?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/why-is-thep-doing-lbp-testing/) - The purpose of the Standardized Paint Screening (SPS) is to gain an understanding of the prevalence of lead in paint in the Trail area and to make recommendations, as required, to update THEP guidance for residents on managing lead in paint and dust in the home and yard. This supports THEP’s aim to reduce the
- [What will THEP do with the data it gathers from SPS?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-will-thep-do-with-the-data-it-gathers-from-sps/) - Data are securely stored in THEP’s community program office database and used to provide a context for potential lead (Pb) exposure on soil managemed sites and homes with young children. Information gathered is used to help inform program directions, supports required for the community and residents and help program partners assess interventions. Upon request, data
- [Can homeowners ask for paint testing without soil testing?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/can-homeowners-ask-for-paint-screening-without-soil-testing/) - Paint testing is offered during soil testing (yard assessment) in priority order. If soil testing has already been done the homeowner can be added to the list. Properties will be contacted in priority order.
- [Besides homeowners, who else can benefit from information about paint testing?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/besides-homeowners-who-else-can-benefit-from-information-about-paint-testing/) - Renovators and contractors can make use of information to identify lead risks prior to renovation projects. They can learn the importance of lead-safe work practices to protect workers, families, and household members.The broader community can benefit from being able to identify and address lead in paint hazards in the built environment, which could reduce the
- [What are the current standards for identifying lead in paint? ](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/what-are-the-current-standards-for-identifying-lead-in-paint/) - Since 2010, paint sold in Canada containing more than 0.009% (90 ppm) lead must be labeled to indicate that it is not safe to use in areas accessible to children or pregnant women. When painting your home, make sure that the paint you use is lead-free. THEP uses the term ‘lead in paint’ when any
- [Why is THEP reporting on ‘lead in paint’ rather than ‘lead-based paint’? ](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/why-is-thep-reporting-on-lead-in-paint-rather-than-lead-based-paint/) - THEP uses the term ‘lead in paint’ when any level of lead is detected in paint. This is because paint with lower lead levels than ‘lead-based paint’ can still be a risk to children when in poor condition such as peeling, flaking or chipping. THEP’s intent is to use the most stringent regulations available. There is currently
- [How do I know if the paint in my home contains lead?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/how-do-i-know-if-there-is-lead-paint-in-my-home-2/) - Homes older than 1990 may contain lead in paint, and homes older than 1960 are likely to contain lead in paint. If you want to test your paint, there are simple test kits that can be purchased at your local hardware store, or you can send a paint chip to a certified lab for analysis.
- [Why do I need my paint tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/why-do-i-need-my-paint-tested/) - Families and caregivers of young children in pre-1990 homes should have paint tested to find out if there is a risk of lead exposure from paint in their home. There is currently no known safe level of lead exposure. Lead in paint can be a serious health hazard when it's peeling, flaking, chipping, or within
- [Am I required to disclose the results if paint at my home is found to contain lead?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/am-i-required-to-disclose-the-results-if-lead-based-paint-is-found/) - To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no requirement in B.C. or Canada to disclose paint testing results. However, situations where you may want to disclose paint testing results include: to tenants if the home is rented to buyers if the home is sold when disposing of materials containing lead-based paint
- [I have lead in paint in my home and I’m starting a renovation. What should I do?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/i-have-lead-in-paint-in-my-home-and-im-starting-a-renovation-what-should-i-do/) - If you must remove paint containing lead from your walls, this Government of Canada resource provides suggestions to be lead-safe. THEP also has DIY videos to reduce dust during renovations and they are accessed at thep.ca > Resources > Videos.
- [How do I dispose of products or building materials containing lead in paint?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/how-do-i-dispose-of-products-or-building-materials-containing-lead-based-paint/) - Please contact the McKelvey Creek Landfill (250) 364-9834 to inquire about disposing of paint containing lead.
- [Why has THEP starting testing paint?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/why-has-thep-starting-testing-paint/) - Home built before 1990 may have lead in paint. Paint that is peeling, flaking, chipping or painted surfaces disturbed through normal wear-and-tear such as doors, windows, stairs and railings, can expose you and your children to lead. To reduce the risk of lead exposure for young children, THEP has added paint testing to existing services
- [What can families and health-care providers do to support lead exposure prevention?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-can-families-and-health-care-providers-do-to-support-lead-exposure-prevention/) - There are five things health-care workers can do to support lead exposure prevention. 1. Encourage participation in THEP’s Healthy Families Healthy Homes program Care providers can encourage participation of expectant families in THEP’s Healthy Families Healthy Homes in-home visiting programs to learn a range of ways to reduce lead exposure. Families can sign up any
- [Where do I learn more or refer a patient?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/where-do-i-learn-more-or-refer-a-patient/) - Trail Area Health & Environment Program | Welcome to THE Program A THEP Public Health Nurse (PHN) is available to answer any questions you or your patient may have and make referrals for support as necessary. Please call THEP’s PHN at 250-364-6223, or text 250-231-5945. *see references for details Resource information: Nutrition and Lead: Dietary
- [Updating FAQ / Documentation](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/updating-faq-documentation/) - The following video is a 14 minute walkthrough on how to update and edit FAQ
- [I'm developing a property in Trail. What support is provided by THEP?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/im-developing-a-property-in-trail-what-support-is-provided-by-thep/) - New developments and redevelopments typically involve significant soil disturbance including excavation, re-grading of soil and potentially import of new fill. THEP works with property owners and developers to: Manage metal contaminated soils during the development or re-development of properties within the Soil Management Area; and Facilitate safe excavation, handle and dispose of metal contaminated soils
- [What is THEP’s Property Development Program?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-theps-property-development-program/) - THEP's Property Development Program (PDP) works with property owners and developers to address Metal Contaminated Soils during the redevelopment or new development of commercial, industrial, or residential property within THEP's Soil Management Area. The objectives of the PDP are to: Manage metal contaminated soils during the development or re-development of properties within the Soil Management
- [What is the process to have soil addressed during property development?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-the-process-to-have-soil-addressed-during-property-development/) - We encourage you to notify us as early as possible, ideally in the early due diligence planning stages. Every property, development scenario, and soil management plan is unique. Still, the process will generally involve the following steps: Application form submitted with details of the project. Preliminary site screening to test for metal contaminated soils in
- [What types of soil management solutions might be used?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-types-of-soil-management-might-be-used/) - Soil management plans for each project are unique and depend on project details and soil test results. Metal contaminated soils may be risk-managed through a combination of: Removal and offsite disposal; and Capping beneath clean soil or hard surfaces such as building foundations, driveways, walkways, and patios.
- [Who pays for soil management during property development?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/who-pays-for-soil-management-during-property-development/) - Costs for the investigation of metal contaminated soils will be covered by Teck. If contamination risks other than smelter metals are identified (e.g., fuels or solvents) they will require investigation at the property owner’s expense. Teck is generally responsible for the incremental costs associated with the risk-management of metal contaminated soils during development. Incremental costs
- [Why is lead a potential health concern in the Trail area?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/why-is-lead-a-potential-health-concern-in-the-trail-area-2/) - Trail is home to one of the world’s largest lead and zinc smelting and refining facilities. Historical smelter emissions along with leaded gasoline and lead-based paint have also left legacy lead in the environment. Lead exists in all communities; however, there is more lead in Trail than a town without a lead smelter. Low levels
- [What should I know about lead if I am expecting?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-should-i-know-about-lead-if-i-am-expecting-a-baby/) - Generally pregnant women and newborns are at low risk of adverse health effects from lead (Pb) exposure in typical every-day community situations. We strongly advise pregnant women and children avoid being exposed to dust from home renovation as this could result in higher than typical lead (Pb) exposure. This includes exposure to fine particles of
- [Why should I inform myself about lead (Pb) when my family is expecting?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/why-should-i-learn-about-lead-when-my-family-is-expecting/) - It is important to be informed about lead when expecting as a pregnant woman who is exposed to lead can pass it to her baby. Lead can also be passed to a baby through the mother’s breast milk. Prevention of lead exposure is possible and simple actions can reduce your babies’ risk of lead exposure.
- [What supports are available to us before baby arrives?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-supports-are-available-to-people-expecting-a-baby/) - Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) is designed to help you keep your children and family healthy and safe. Sign up for a FREE Healthy Families Healthy Homes visit at thep.ca or by calling 250-368-3256. Supports offered by signing up can include: Information and advice on easy ways to keep the home healthy and
- [What can I do to reduce lead (Pb) exposure?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-can-i-do-to-reduce-lead-exposure/) - Learning about possible sources of lead and how you and your child might be exposed can help you take action to reduce any risk. Primary prevention is the most effective way to prevent lead exposure. Actions you can take to reduce the risk of lead exposure include: Wash your hands and your children’s hands especially
- [What can other communities in proximity to smelting and mining industries learn from Trail’s experience?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/what-can-other-communities-in-proximity-to-smelting-and-mining-industries-learn-from-trails-experience/) - Communities that live in close proximity to active lead smelting and mining facilities share unique challenges when working toward the goal of thriving families, environment and economy. There is often a diverse network of local and regional stakeholders working to ensure economic prosperity along with the health of the environment and people. Acknowledging that no
- [How important is collaboration to reducing exposure to lead in the community?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/how-important-is-collaboration-to-reducing-exposure-to-lead-in-the-community/) - THEP's combined efforts are a driver for a healthy community, healthy children and healthy air, working together across all levels of government, industry and community. THEP has greatly reduced exposure to lead in the community over time. No single organization or agency could do this alone. These combined efforts for longer than 30 years are
- [What is the Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP)?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/what-is-the-trail-area-health-environment-program-thep/) - THEP (formerly known as the Trail Lead Program, in place since 2001) helps the community to understand and navigate ways to reduce exposure to lead, other smelter metals, and sulphur dioxide. Program activities are focused on air, soil, built environments (e.g. homes, daycares, fences, etc.), health, community connection and integration.
- [What is the Healthy Families Healthy Homes visit?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-is-the-healthy-families-healthy-homes-visit/) - The Healthy Families Healthy Homes Program is an in-home visitation, health promotion program targeting expectant families and families with children under 3 years old in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale, Waneta and Warfield. This is a time when children are more at risk of exposure to lead in their home environment as they are beginning to
- [What is a ground-cover evaluation? ](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-a-ground-cover-evaluation/) - During a ground-cover evaluation, the Community Program representative checks the amount of bare soil in a yard. Bare soil is a source of dust and may contain lead.
- [How do I find out if my soil has previously been tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/how-do-i-find-out-if-my-soil-has-previously-been-tested/) - Records are kept for all yards previously tested. Contact THEP’s Community Program Office. Call 250.368.3256 or email: programs@thep.ca.
- [When can I get my soil tested if I am planning a yard or garden project this year?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/when-can-i-get-my-soil-tested-if-i-am-planning-a-yard-or-garden-project-this-year/) - Get your soil tested as early as possible. Sign up online (it’s free). The soil testing season begins when the ground thaws in the spring and ends when the ground is covered or frozen in the fall. Testing when the ground is frozen would only take place under special circumstances.
- [What are the concerns about lead?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-are-the-concerns-about-lead/) - Lead exposure can have detrimental effects on early childhood development and children’s future outcomes. Lead is most harmful to young children under the age of six. A pregnant woman who is exposed to lead can pass it to her baby through the mother’s breast milk. For children, there is no known safe level of lead
- [I am a healthcare provider and want to understand why lead is a potential concern in the Trail area?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/healthcare-why-is-lead-a-potential-health-concern-in-the-trail-area/) - Trail is home to one the world’s largest lead and zinc smelting and refining facilities. People living in the Trail area may be exposed to higher levels of lead (Pb) in their environments. Lead levels have decreased substantially over the past several decades, but additional awareness and actions are still warranted. Primary care providers are
- [What does this mean for my patients? What are the health issues related to lead exposure?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-does-this-mean-for-my-patients-what-are-the-health-issues-related-to-leadexposure/) - There are no known safe levels of lead (Pb) for children. Even low levels of Pb in blood have been shown to cause lower IQ, attention deficits, and reduced academic achievement. Children are most impacted during early years (less than 6), when they have higher hand to mouth behavior and their bodies are developing rapidly.
- [What Communities/Area does THEP include?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-area-does-thep-include/) - See our program map here.
- [Why do we have SO<sub>2</sub> in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/why-do-we-have-so2-in-trail/) - SO2 is emitted by Teck Trail Operations as a by-product of processing mine concentrates, which contain sulphur, into metal and chemical products. With environmental improvements, SO2 emissions continue to decline. Teck Trail Operations currently captures more than 99% of the sulphur and converts it to by-products, such as fertilizer and sulphuric acid. About 1% leaves
- [How does SO<sub>2</sub> affect my health?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/how-does-so2-affect-my-health/) - Short-term exposures to elevated SO2 levels can cause the air passages in the lungs to constrict or tighten, leading to breathing difficulties and tightening in the chest. Symptoms may include constriction or tightening of the airways in the lungs, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. It may also irritate the nasal passage, throat and eyes.
- [What are the long-term risks of SO<sub>2</sub> exposure?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-are-the-long-term-risks-of-so2-exposure/) - Long-term exposure to the particles produced by the reaction of SO2 with other compounds in the air may also affect your health. These particles penetrate deeply into the lungs. This can cause irritation and inflammation that can damage the lining of the lungs and affect other parts of the body. Particles can worsen existing heart
- [How do I know if I am sensitive to SO<sub>2</sub>?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/how-do-i-know-if-i-am-sensitive-to-so2/) - Some people, particularly those with respiratory conditions, may be more sensitive to SO2 exposure. Sensitivities may result in symptoms such as irritation of the eyes and respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.
- [Who is at the highest risk of SO<sub>2</sub> exposure?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/who-is-at-the-highest-risk-of-so2-exposure/) - Workers in industrial facilities where SO2 is used or is a by-product of industrial processes have the greatest exposure. People who live near these industries and other point sources can also be exposed to higher levels of SO2. See docs 7 and 8 for more information on SO2 levels.
- [What actions can I take to reduce potential health effects of SO<sub>2</sub>?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-actions-can-i-take-to-reduce-potential-health-effects-of-so2/) - When SO2 concentrations are elevated, consider reducing or rescheduling activities outdoors, remaining indoors, and reducing indoor sources of SO2 including tobacco smoke and unvented gas stoves. Persons with asthma should follow a management plan developed with their health care provider. If you are having trouble breathing, have chest pain or discomfort, or a severe cough,
- [Where is SO<sub>2</sub> monitored in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/where-is-so2-monitored-in-trail/) - SO2 is monitored by Teck at four locations throughout Trail and the surrounding areas – Birchbank, Butler Park, Columbia Gardens and Warfield. These stations operate continuously, with near real-time data publicly available. SO2 levels fluctuate throughout the day, month and year. Find current and historical levels online at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/readings/find-stations-map-SO2.html
- [What is Teck doing to reduce SO<sub>2</sub> emissions?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-is-teck-doing-to-reduce-so2-emissions/) - Over the past 30 years, over $1.7 billion has been invested in a modernization program to improve the operational and environmental performance at Teck Trail Operations resulting in significant improvements in community air quality. Teck Trail Operations currently captures more than 99% of the sulphur contained in feed and meets the highest standard for sulphur
- [How does Teck Trail Operations use data to manage SO<sub>2</sub> levels in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/how-does-teck-trail-operations-use-data-to-manage-so2-levels-in-trail/) - In addition to reducing emissions, near real-time data is transmitted to Teck Trail Operations’ process control systems. If SO2 levels begin to rise (such as during a temperature inversion or during periods of higher emissions), plants at Teck Trail Operations are automatically notified so that actions can be taken to further reduce SO2 at the
- [What are the applicable standards for SO<sub>2</sub>?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-are-the-applicable-standards-for-so2/) - Air quality is managed to protect the environment and human health relative to BC’s Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) and the Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS). For SO2, BC AQO are the same as the CAAQS; more information about these standards can be found at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/air-land-water/air/reports-pub/fs_so2_caaqs.pdf BC uses these benchmarks to guide regulatory decisions, including
- [What is sulphur dioxide (SO<sub/>2</sub>)?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-is-sulphur-dioxide-so2/) - Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is a colourless, reactive gas. At higher concentrations it can have a strong odour. It is produced during the combustion of sulphur-containing fuels and industrial operations involving sulphur-containing materials. Major sources of SO2 in BC include the upstream oil and gas industry, metal smelting facilities, pulp / paper mills and marine operations
- [Why is the blood lead clinic in September?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/why-is-the-blood-lead-clinic-in-september/) - Lead levels are expected to be highest at the end of summer as windows and doors are open to the outdoors more, kids are playing outdoors more, and the ground in the community is snow-free and dry.
- [I work in a Pb-based industry and I/my partner is expecting. Should I be concerned?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/i-work-in-a-lead-based-industry-and-we-are-expecting-a-baby-should-i-be-concerned/) - Jobs such as plumbing, welding, renovating or painting houses, autobody work, electrical work, battery recycling, or radiator repair may expose workers to lead dust. As a new parent, if you work in an industry where you may be exposed to Pb there are steps you can take to reduce bringing Pb into the home. Always
- [How is soil at daycare facilities addressed?  ](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/how-is-soil-at-daycare-facilities-addressed/) - THEP has completed soil testing at daycares in Trail and area and has provided soil management where recommended. If you know of a new daycare facility opening in THEP's Soil Management Area, please contact THEP to arrange soil testing.
- [What is THEP soil management?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-thep-soil-management/) - THEP soil management begins with soil testing and, depending on metal levels, may include covering bare soil, improving lawn condition, and at times replacing contaminated soil with clean fill. The entire process from soil testing to soil management is described in this infographic.
- [Why is the focus on young children?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/why-is-the-focus-on-young-children/) - Young children, especially those younger than 3 years old, are at a higher risk for lead exposure and its effects because: They often put their hands and objects in their mouths. They sometimes swallow non-food items. Their bodies absorb lead at a higher rate. Their brains are developing quickly. Lead exposure can have detrimental effects
- [How can I improve my nutrition to reduce lead uptake?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/how-can-i-improve-my-nutrition-to-reduce-lead-uptake/) - Eat healthy foods with good sources of iron and calcium; Get tested for iron stores, blood count, and blood lead level; and Take supplements or vitamins if recommended by your health care provider.
- [What are some iron-rich foods I can feed my children?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-are-some-iron-rich-foods-i-can-feed-my-children/) - For babies, try: Cooked ground meat; Canned tuna or salmon; Sweet potato; Soft cooked beans; and Infant cereal mixed with soft fruit. For toddlers, some additional iron-rich food options are: Hummus with pita bread, cucumber, or peppers; Oatmeal with raisins and hemp seeds; Smoothies with leafy greens, berries, and nut butter; Chilli with beans; and
- [Why is iron important in reducing lead uptake?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/why-is-iron-important-in-reducing-lead-uptake/) - Low iron stores can lead to increased uptake of lead in your body. Low iron during pregnancy can lead to low iron in your baby. Protecting pregnant women and children is important for the health of the community. THEP and their partners work together to reduce lead in the community, and in your home environment.
- [What are Metal Contaminated Soils?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-are-metal-contaminated-soils/) - Metal contaminated soils are referenced in many of the FAQs. These are soils influenced by historical aerial emissions from the Teck Trail smelter with concentrations of As, Cd, Pb and/or Zn above natural background levels and regulatory standards.
- [What is the cost for testing soil and associated next steps?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-the-cost-for-testing-soil-and-associated-next-steps/) - Soil testing is free. Next steps are dependent on each specific situation. For most cases, there are no costs to the homeowner. For disposal of soil, THEP ensures incremental costs are not borne by homeowners.
- [Who is eligible for soil testing?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/who-is-eligible-for-soil-testing/) - Everyone in THEP's Soil Management Area is eligible for soil testing. See the map. Sign up online.
- [What is THEP's soil assessment and testing?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-is-theps-soil-assessment-and-testing/) - Soil assessment and testing is when soil samples from yards are collected and analyzed for metals. Results from THEP soil testing indicate the amount of lead and other metals in the soil in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), which are equivalent measurements.
- [How is lead in the soil being addressed?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/how-is-lead-in-the-soil-being-addressed/) - Measures to manage exposure to lead and other metals in the soil may include improvements to ground cover, such as planting grass, or the replacement of soil in qualifying yards and gardens. Soil testing is the first step. Everyone in the Environmental Management Area can sign up for free soil testing online.
- [What does it mean if I live in THEP’s Soil Management Area?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-does-it-mean-if-i-live-in-theps-soil-management-area/) - Properties within the THEP Soil Management Area may contain elevated soil metals concentrations due to historical aerial emissions from the Trail smelter. Free soil testing is available to help you understand your metals levels, which is helpful information if you plan on disturbing soil, growing vegetables, or have young children frequent the property.
- [Do I live in THEP’s Soil Management Area?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/do-i-live-in-theps-soil-management-area/) - Properties in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale, Warfield, Waneta, Montrose, south Castlegar, areas of RDKB Area A and B, areas of RDCK Area J and the edges of Rossland are in THEP’s Soil Management Area. View the map.
- [Is it safe to play in parks and playgrounds in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/parks/is-it-safe-to-play-in-parks-and-playgrounds-in-trail/) - Yes, it is safe to play at parks and playgrounds in Trail and in THEP's Soil Management Area. Parks and playgrounds in Trail, Rivervale and select parks in Warfield have been assessed and soil management has been completed where needed. Park spaces in the City of Trail are maintained to a high standard and generally
- [Are we ever going to reach a safe blood lead level in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/are-we-ever-going-to-reach-a-safe-blood-lead-level-in-trail/) - There is currently no known safe blood lead level. Canadian and U.S. health surveys indicate that the majority of the population has some exposure to lead. For the past five years, the average blood lead level for children 6-36 months in Trail has fallen below 3 micrograms per decilitre and the majority of children tested
- [Will removing soil just cause more dust and increase exposure?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/will-removing-soil-just-cause-more-dust-and-increase-exposure/) - Reducing dust generation and protecting workers, residents and the public during soil management activities is a key part of the program. Contractors employ several strategies to reduce dust, including using water to wet soil prior to and during excavation and avoiding sweeping unless necessary. THEP has monitored dust levels in air during soil removal and levels
- [Won’t the soil just get re-contaminated over time?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/wont-the-soil-just-get-re-contaminated-over-time/) - It’s important to note that the metals in the soil that we’re currently addressing are the result of well over 100 years of smelter operations. In recent years, major improvements have been made to lower emissions from smelter operations. These improvements mean that the facility is no longer significantly contributing to the deposition of metals
- [Why should I get my soil tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/why-should-i-get-my-soil-tested/) - THEP recommends soil testing at properties in the Trail area so landowners can be aware of their soil metals content and appropriate measures to reduce exposure and manage their soil. The benefits of soil testing include: prioritization for potential soil management by THEP's Soil Management Program; and expedited soil disposal support should you excavate soil
- [Why do children from Warfield, Waneta, Casino and Oasis need annual blood lead testing? What has changed over time?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/why-do-children-from-warfield-waneta-casino-and-oasis-need-annual-blood-lead-testing-what-has-changed-over-time/) - Historically, our program began offering blood lead testing to children in the greater Trail area in 1991. Over time, the annual blood lead testing clinics were targeted to children with greatest risk for developing elevated blood lead levels. In 2020, the Medical Health Officer recommended offering annual testing to children in Casino, Oasis, Waneta and
- [Why is my child’s blood lead level elevated?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/why-is-my-childs-blood-lead-level-elevated/) - Exposure to lead can occur from a variety of sources such as dust, soil, paint, water as well as older toys and some imported foods. Nutrition, particularly low iron stores, can also result in increased uptake of lead in your body. There are ways to reduce exposure and the Program can connect you with experts
- [Who should have their blood lead tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/who-should-have-their-blood-lead-tested/) - Children 6 months to 3 years of age living in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale, Waneta and Warfield are invited to attend clinics annually. The only way to know your child's level of lead is by getting a blood test.
- [What is the average blood lead level in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-is-the-average-blood-lead-level-in-trail/) - The average blood lead level for children aged 6-36 months, living in Trail and Rivervale, has been under 3 micrograms per decilitre since 2018. In 2022, the average blood lead level for this same group was 2.3 micrograms per decilitre. There is no comparable Canadian average. However, for slightly older children (3-5 years of age),
- [What was the Trail Lead Task Force and the Trail Lead Program?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-was-the-trail-lead-task-force-and-the-trail-lead-program/) - The Trail Lead Task Force was the predecessor to the Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) and Committee (THEC). The Task Force was in place from 1990-2000 and had a similar make-up of representatives as the multi-stakeholder THEC. The Task Force undertook research to better understand the exposure routes of lead related to elevated
- [What would you like people outside the region to know about Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-would-you-like-people-outside-the-region-to-know-about-trail/) - Trail is a great place to live, work and raise a family. The community has developed around one of the world’s largest lead and zinc smelters that has been operating for more than a century. Living next door to a smelter has created unique challenges in terms of minimizing exposure to lead in house dust
- [What lead levels are a concern for garden soil?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-lead-levels-are-a-concern-for-garden-soil/) - Garden soil with lead concentrations of 400 ppm or greater is prioritized for soil replacement to a depth of 60cm. Vegetable gardens tend to have bare soil so THEP uses bare soil prioritization criteria.
- [What steps can I take if my soil cannot be replaced due to access or other issues?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-steps-can-i-take-if-my-soil-cannot-be-replaced-due-to-access-or-other-issues/) - THEP is offering soil management at all prioritized properties, including yards with access challenges. Soil management strategies at properties with access restrictions may include ground cover improvements, capping of soil in place and other yard improvements to reduce exposure to bare soil. Here are some tips to keep dust and soil out of your home.
- [When will properties only occupied by adults and children older than 12 receive soil management?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/when-will-properties-only-occupied-by-adults-and-children-older-than-12-receive-soil-management/) - The long-term soil management plan being developed will outline an approach for addressing all properties in the Soil Management Area. Everyone who gets their soil tested will remain in the database to be included in the long-term plan. The current prioritization plan is based on principles provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and has
- [What is the cost for soil testing and disposal?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-is-the-cost-for-soil-testing-and-disposal/) - THEP ensures incremental costs for soil testing and disposal of smelter-related contamination are not borne by homeowners. Soil testing and soil disposal application services are provided free by THEP. If soil is approved for disposal at the McKelvey Creek landfill, the costs for loading, transport and tipping fees are payable by the landowner. These costs would
- [Is it safe to eat snow?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/is-it-safe-to-eat-snow/) - Eating snow is a very natural behaviour for young children and part of how they explore their world. A child would have to eat a lot of snow for it to be potentially harmful to them. Children should avoid playing in visibly dirty snow, near roadways and directly below buildings. Studies have shown that snow
- [If lead is most harmful for children up to the age of six, why do you only recommend testing for children up to the age of three?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/if-lead-is-most-harmful-for-children-up-to-the-age-of-six-why-do-you-only-recommend-testing-for-children-up-to-the-age-of-three/) - Studies in Trail have indicated that children tested annually who don't have elevated blood lead levels by three years of age are unlikely to develop higher blood leads after that.
- [What does an elevated blood lead level mean for children and why is that important to know?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-does-an-elevated-blood-lead-level-mean-for-children-and-why-is-that-important-to-know/) - We use elevated to mean that the child's blood lead level indicates they may have higher lead exposure. As sources of lead in the environment have declined over time, the levels of lead in general populations have also decreased. Therefore, what is considered elevated has also decreased several times over the past few decades. In B.C.,
- [What do I need to know about the rail line to the fertilizer plant?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-do-i-need-to-know-about-the-rail-line-to-the-fertilizer-plant/) - Teck Trail Operations ships and receives several products by rail, including sulphuric acid and fertilizer. Canadian Pacific (CP) trains travel to and from the site once a day, at 10 miles per hour. Kootenay Valley Railway, under contract to CP, manages the rail line and the schedule of the rail cars. Tracks are inspected regularly.Safety
- [What are the areas in THEP?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-are-the-areas-in-thep/) - Areas were defined in the 1989 Trail Lead Study Report (authored by UBC) by reviewing the distribution of blood lead levels at the time relative to the level of no concern (a term from the U.S.). Area 3 had a higher proportion of kids exceeding the 'safe' level and included Tadanac, East and West Trail,
- [Is the Environmental Management Area the same as THEP's Soil Management Area? ](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/is-the-environmental-management-area-the-same-as-theps-soil-management-area/) - Yes, these are different terms for the same area. The Environmental Management Area is a term from the B.C. Contaminated Sites Regulation and will become the official designation once a Wide Area Remediation Plan is approved for the Trail area.
- [Is it safe to forage for plants to eat throughout the Trail area?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/is-it-safe-to-forage-for-plants-to-eat-throughout-the-trail-area/) - THEP hasn't specifically tested foraged foods for metals content. Be aware that foraged foods may contain metals from soil or dust.
- [Is it safe to plant berries in contaminated soil?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/is-it-safe-to-plant-berries-in-contaminated-soil/) - Our studies have found that fruiting crops have the lowest metals and are typically below recommended levels. Dust landing on fruit crops is a potential source of metals and washing fruit before eating is likely more important than the soil they grow in. We do not see a strong link between soil lead and lead
- [Is it safe to construct a sand play area on top of contaminated soil?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/is-it-safe-to-construct-a-sand-play-area-on-top-of-contaminated-soil/) - Best practice is to put landscape fabric between the play sand and soils beneath. This provides a visual and physical barrier between the soil layers.
- [What about cases where renters want soil management, but landlords do not?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-about-cases-where-renters-want-soil-management-but-landlords-do-not/) - THEP will continue to manage situations like this on a case-by-case basis. If appropriate, THEP will work directly with the landowner and tenant to come to an agreeable solution. As tenants are typically responsible for yard maintenance, there are opportunities for soil management such as improving lawn areas and ground cover based on the tenant’s
- [Our yard is having its soil replaced. What steps can we take to protect our family from exposure to lead before, during, and after the soil replacement activities?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/our-yard-is-having-its-soil-replaced-what-steps-can-we-take-to-protect-our-family-from-exposure-to-lead-before-during-and-after-the-soil-replacement-activities/) - During soil replacement, bare soil can be a source of dust and may contain lead. Here are the steps your family can take to prevent to the spread of dust: Before: Watch the do-it-yourself soil excavation video for tips and ideas. Plan for your children and pets to have an alternative safe place to play
- [What do these soil test result numbers mean?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/what-do-these-soil-test-result-numbers-mean/) - MUST KNOW:THEP measures for lead and other metals in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), which are equivalent measurements. The soil results indicate the amount of metals found in your soil. The health risk associated with the level of metals depends on how accessible the soil is and a person's age. But
- [I have young children. Is there a specific program for me?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/i-have-young-children-is-there-a-specific-program-for-me/) - Expectant families and those with children under three can request an in-home visit from a public health nurse and Community Program Office staff. These experts will look more closely at nutrition, diet, and the home and yard environment. They will connect you with community resources and groups that support early childhood development. They can provide
- [How would you describe the progress that has been made to reduce the risk of lead exposure in the community? What have been some of the key milestones?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-would-you-describe-the-progress-that-has-been-made-to-reduce-the-risk-of-lead-exposure-in-the-community-what-have-been-some-of-the-key-milestones/) - After years of hard work to reduce emissions at the source, to monitor children’s improvement, to educate families on how to reduce exposure to lead, and to continually strive for improvements, we are seeing the lowest blood lead levels in children ever along with the lowest levels of lead in community air. Positive progress is
- [How would you describe the importance of the smelter to the community?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-would-you-describe-the-importance-of-the-smelter-to-the-community/) - Teck Trail Operations has been in continuous operation for more than 125 years, and the City grew around this world-class metallurgical facility. Teck Trail Operations is the largest private sector employer in the region and supports the community of Trail and surrounding areas in several ways through taxes, wages and salaries, local spending on goods
- [How is THEP's work paid for? How much of THEP's budget comes from Teck, the Province, and the City of Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-is-theps-work-paid-for-how-much-of-theps-budget-comes-from-teck-the-province-and-the-city-of-trail/) - The Health program component is funded by Interior Health and all other program components, including Air, Soil, and Built Environments, are funded by Teck. The City contributes to the Air component through enhanced street sweeping in Trail and ground-cover maintenance in city parks and green spaces. Interior Health contributes to Built Environments by funding water
- [I live in a neighbouring community to the Environmental Management Area. Can I get my soil tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/i-live-in-a-neighbouring-community-to-the-environmental-management-area-can-i-get-my-soil-tested/) - THEP does not provide soil testing in neighbouring communities (for example, Fruitvale and Rossland) as these communities are not expected to be impacted by historical emissions from smelter operations. You can get your soil tested privately. Here are a few labs we know of: CARO, ALS, Pacific Soil Analysis. COULD KNOW:If you have further questions,
- [How is soil at schools addressed?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-is-soil-at-schools-addressed/) - School yards in the Trail area are maintained to a high standard and generally have excellent ground cover. Soil at school playgrounds and playing fields has been tested, and ground cover is assessed. The current prioritization approach for soil management applies to elementary school playgrounds. School-aged children are older so may not have the same exposure risk
- [How will soil management affect property values?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-will-soil-management-affect-property-values/) - THEP has an active Soil Management Program and we can’t speculate on what the effects of that work might be on property values.Like any region, there are many contributing factors to property values.
- [How many properties has THEP addressed and how can you increase the pace to reach more properties?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-many-properties-has-thep-addressed-and-how-can-you-increase-the-pace-to-reach-more-properties/) - As of 2022, close to 2,000 properties have had soil tested and more than 500 properties have had soil management completed to reduce potential exposure to lead. Actions include covering bare soil and removing soil and replacing it with clean fill. The current prioritization framework is focused on addressing properties with the highest potential risk
- [How long does it take to get soil replaced?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-soil-replaced/) - Once your property has been confirmed as a candidate, it takes about two weeks to complete on-site soil replacement work. The advance planning and preparation stage is more time-consuming and can take up to 12 months. The first step is determining if your property will be prioritized for soil management. That involves a soil assessment and ground
- [I had my soil replaced years ago. Should I have my soil tested again?   ](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/i-had-my-soil-replaced-years-ago-should-i-have-my-soil-tested-again/) - Since your soil was replaced, you do not require re-testing. Teck has made major improvements to minimize aerial emissions from smelter operations, meaning the facility is no longer significantly contributing to the deposition of metals into the soil. THEP is initiating a long-term soil study to assess potential changes in soil metal concentrations over time.
- [I had my soil tested years ago. Should I have my yard tested again?   ](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/i-had-my-soil-tested-years-ago-should-i-have-my-yard-tested-again/) - Your prior results remain valid unless you've done significant yard work or landscaping since the initial testing was completed. Soil test results for metals do not expire and soil metals concentrations don't vary significantly over time. Teck has made major improvements to minimize aerial emissions from smelter operations, meaning the facility is no longer significantly contributing
- [How much soil do you take to test?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-much-soil-do-you-take-to-test/) - The amount of soil taken is relatively small. Approximately 10 samples are taken per yard and each sample is about a handful. Additional samples are taken for vegetable and food growing areas.
- [How does the soil management program work?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-does-the-soil-management-program-work/) - MUST KNOW:Properties are prioritized based on three factors: levels of metals in the soil, quality of the ground cover, and presence of children. The first step is to have the soil tested in your yard. There is an online consent form. You can also contact the Community Program Office to get the link to the
- [How can I get my child’s elevated blood lead level down?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-can-i-get-my-childs-elevated-blood-lead-level-down/) - MUST KNOW: There are many things you can do to help reduce exposure and ingestion of lead by your child. The most effective way is to keep indoor dust down. It’s important to connect (or reconnect) with the public health nurse and home garden representative for a home visit to look more closely at nutrition,
- [How do blood lead levels in Trail compare with blood lead levels across Canada and in the U.S.?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-do-blood-lead-levels-in-trail-compare-with-blood-lead-levels-across-canada-and-in-the-u-s/) - Trail has higher blood lead averages than Canadian and U.S. averages likely due to proximity of residents to the smelter. However, as blood lead levels decrease in Trail, it's possible that other sources, including older housing stock with chipping and peeling lead paint, could be playing a role in higher blood lead levels as well.The
- [How do I get a free vacuum cleaner?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-do-i-get-a-free-vacuum-cleaner/) - The first step is a Healthy Families Healthy Homes visit (available if you live in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale, Waneta or Warfield and have children younger than three or are expecting). Once confirmed, you will receive two visits: one from a public health nurse and one from Community Program Office staff to review the home
- [How did COVID-19 affect THEP's work?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-did-covid-19-affect-theps-work/) - The biggest change was ensuring physical distancing measures were in place. In-person home visits shifted to virtual visits. As well, the downtown Community Program Office was closed to the public. There were more phone and email conversations because face-to-face communication was less available. Program team meetings shifted to online formats. Overall, the Program continued to
- [How do I learn more about Teck’s environmental efforts in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-do-i-learn-more-about-tecks-environmental-efforts-in-trail/) - Click here for details.
- [How are the City of Trail and other local governments involved in THEC?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-are-the-city-of-trail-and-other-local-governments-involved-in-thec/) - THEC is a select committee of the City of Trail, and the Mayor of Trail or a designate is the Chair of THEC, which meets five times per year. The Chair provides political liaising as needed with higher levels of government, Interior Health and media. The Chair meets with Teck’s Superintendent of Environmental Remediation and
- [Have boulevards been tested for lead?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/have-boulevards-been-tested-for-lead/) - Yes, boulevards are tested when adjacent properties are tested and managed as needed.
- [Can I dump my soil somewhere rather than get it tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/can-i-dump-my-soil-somewhere-rather-than-get-it-tested/) - No, you can't dump your soil somewhere rather than getting it tested. Moving soil to another place could spread contaminants and put others at risk, including children. Soil within the THEP Soil Management Area has the potential to exceed environmental quality standards for certain metals.
- [Are your prioritization criteria intended to indicate ‘safe’ lead levels?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/are-your-prioritization-criteria-intended-to-indicate-safe-lead-levels/) - The criteria used to prioritize properties isn’t intended to denote a specific safe level, but rather is a tool to help us determine which properties we need to attend to first.
- [How do I get on the list for soil management?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/how-do-i-get-on-the-list-for-soil-management/) - MUST KNOW:You need a soil assessment and a ground-cover evaluation to get started. Prioritization for soil management is based on soil assessment results, ground-cover evaluation results and the age of the children present in the home. Priority is given to families with children under the age of 12 as they are most at risk from
- [Do I have to disclose my soil results if I sell my house?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/do-i-have-to-disclose-my-soil-results-if-i-sell-my-house/) - This is a question for your realtor or lawyer. THEP educates prospective residents on the presence of elevated concentrations of soil metals in the Trail area. Prospective purchasers and residents can find information and connect with THEP's Community Program Office. It's important to note that the prioritization of a property for soil management may change if new
- [Am I legally required to have my soil tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/internal-faq/am-i-legally-required-to-have-my-soil-tested/) - No, there are no legal requirements to have your soil tested. THEP recommends soil testing at properties in the Trail area so landowners are aware of their soil metals content and appropriate measures to reduce exposure and manage their soil safely if required.
- [Are unpaved alleys in Trail a source of lead?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/are-unpaved-alleys-in-trail-a-source-of-lead/) - Unpaved alleys in Trail were identified as a potential source of lead by the Trail Lead Task Force. They recommended annual dust suppressant application to reduce dusting, which has been applied annually by the City of Trail since 1993. The City also completes annual monitoring and maintenance of unpaved alleys including grading and gravel placement.
- [Are there other metals in Trail, besides lead, that residents should be aware of?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/are-there-other-metals-in-trail-besides-lead-that-residents-should-be-aware-of/) - Risks from metals other than lead have been studied in Trail through human health risk assessment. The most recent study concluded that the risk from metals other than lead is very low to negligible, and that lead reduction should continue to be the main focus for THEP programs. Ongoing emissions reductions, along with soil management
- [Why should I get my children's blood lead tested every year?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/why-should-i-get-my-childrens-blood-lead-tested-every-year/) - Blood lead levels vary year to year depending on where the child is spending their time (home, daycare, and outdoor play), their behaviour (crawling, hand to mouth activity) and their nutritional status (wide range of healthy foods, adequate iron stores). Blood lead testing ensures that children with elevated blood lead levels are identified and provided follow-up
- [Why are community members on the THEC?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/why-are-community-members-on-the-thec/) - Community leadership and participation on THEC is fundamental to its success. Community engagement has ensured a potentially stigmatizing issue is a community success story. This is exemplified by exceptionally high participation rates in children’s lead testing clinics and other programs, owing in large part to the high degree of trust and goodwill generated by the
- [Why do we need to get soil tested before taking it to the landfill? What contaminants may exist?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/why-do-we-need-to-get-soil-tested-before-taking-it-to-the-landfill-what-contaminants-may-exist/) - Soil within THEP’s Soil Management Area may exceed the acceptance criteria at the landfill due to historical aerial emissions from the Trail smelter. Metal contaminants that may exist include arsenic, cadmium, lead and zinc. Soil exceeding standards will require soil disposal support. Soil testing and disposal approvals can take weeks, so plan early and get
- [Why is the dust in and around homes a concern in the Trail region?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/why-is-the-dust-in-and-around-homes-a-concern-in-the-trail-region-2/) - Dust that settles in and around homes in the Trail area may contain lead as a result of air emissions (mainly historical) from the smelter. Lead dust may also come from older, chipping indoor and outdoor paint. If a young child puts their hands in their mouth, they may unintentionally ingest lead from dust on
- [What studies have been done?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/what-studies-have-been-done/) - All studies are available under Resources and Reports.
- [What should I do if I want to reduce dust in my home?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/what-should-i-do-if-i-want-to-reduce-dust-in-my-home-2/) - To avoid stirring up dust, use a damp mop on bare floors and use a damp cloth to wipe window sills, furniture, benches, toys, baseboards and other surfaces that children touch. Dry sweeping is not recommended as it lifts dust into the air only to have some of it settle back down again. Areas where
- [What should I do if I want to renovate my home?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/what-should-i-do-if-i-want-to-renovate-my-home-2/) - Please contact the Community Program Office at 1319 Bay Avenue or 250.368.3256 for information on the Lead Safe Renovation Program supports and information available to you. The Lead Safe Renovation Program applies to all pre-1990 homes anywhere in the Lower Columbia. Resources are also available online.
- [What should I do if I want to get my child’s blood lead level tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-should-i-do-if-i-want-to-get-my-childs-blood-lead-level-tested/) - Every year, THEP offers free voluntary testing of blood lead levels for children from the age of 6 to 36 months living in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale, Waneta and Warfield. Children up to 5 years old from other Lower Columbia communities are welcome to attend. Clinics are typically held in September with a follow-up clinic
- [What is THEC?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/what-is-thec/) - The Trail Health & Environment Committee was formally established as a select committee of the City of Trail. THEC's mandate is to be a transparent platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue, collective decision-making and community engagement with respect to THEP. The Terms of Reference are approved by Trail city council and are intended to be reviewed on the
- [What is the purpose of the Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP)?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/what-is-the-purpose-of-the-trail-area-health-environment-program-thep/) - THEP’s purpose is to support the community of Trail and surrounding areas to live, work and play in an area influenced by smelter air emissions.
- [What should I do if I want to move soil out of my yard?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-should-i-do-if-i-want-to-move-soil-out-of-my-yard/) - If you are planning to excavate and move soil out of your yard, please contact THEP in advance to get your soil tested. All soil in the Environmental Management Area should be tested for arsenic, cadmium, lead and zinc prior to transport and disposal off-site. THEP will test your soil for free. You can sign up online.
- [What should I do if I want my garden soil tested?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-should-i-do-if-i-want-my-garden-soil-tested/) - Sign up online to have your soil tested. Vegetable gardens remain a priority for soil testing and management.
- [What should I do if I am a building contractor or professional home renovator?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/what-should-i-do-if-i-am-a-building-contractor-or-professional-home-renovator-2/) - Check out the Contractor section on this website. For more information, or to become a Trail Area Lead Safe Contractor, please contact the Community Program Office at 1319 Bay Avenue or 250.368.3256.
- [What is Lead (Pb)?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/what-is-lead-pb/) - Lead (Pb) is a naturally occurring element found in small amounts in the earth’s crust. You can find lead in various products such as vehicle batteries, radiation protection and soundproofing.
- [What can I do to keep my family healthy in a community with a smelter?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/what-can-i-do-to-keep-my-family-healthy-in-a-community-with-a-smelter/) - The most effective way to reduce children’s potential ingestion of lead is to keep indoor dust down. Connect (or reconnect) with the public health nurse and community program office for a home visit to look more closely at nutrition, diet and the home and yard environment. They will connect with you community resources and groups
- [What does it mean to live with metals in soil?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/what-does-it-mean-to-live-with-metals-in-soil/) - For most people, the risks associated with metals in soil are low, particularly where soils are covered by grass or other materials. However, bare soils may increase exposure to metals and contribute to elevated blood lead levels in children.
- [Is it safe for my family to live in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/health-faq/is-it-safe-for-my-family-to-live-in-trail/) - Yes, it is safe to live in Trail and the surrounding areas. Trail has an operating smelter with a robust environmental monitoring program that has demonstrated significant air emissions improvements over time. THEP continues to work on the effects of historical emissions and support people in the community to reduce exposure.
- [We hired a contractor and they will be disturbing our soil. What does the contractor need to know?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/we-hired-a-contractor-and-they-will-be-disturbing-our-soil-what-does-the-contractor-need-to-know/) - If your property is in THEP’s Soil Management Area, your contractor needs to know there may be metal contamination in the soil.All soil in THEP's Soil Management Area should be tested prior to transport and disposal offsite. Soil testing and disposal approvals can take weeks, so plan early and get your soil tested now (it’s
- [How is my local government involved?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/how-is-my-local-government-involved/) - The Mayor of Trail, or a designate, chairs the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee. There is also representation on the committee from the Village of Warfield and RDKB Areas A and B. All local governments in the Lower Columbia are invited to meetings of the Trail Area Health & Environment Committee.
- [How many families are supported by THEP each year?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/how-many-families-are-supported-by-thep-each-year/) - Each year, THEP supports hundreds of families in the Trail region with programs and supports to reduce people's exposure to lead.
- [How is THEP implemented?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/how-is-thep-implemented/) - THEP is implemented by partners. Each partner focuses on their area of expertise while also collaborating in support of community health and wellbeing. The partners are guided by the strategic plan which they jointly develop and agree upon every five years.
- [Is it safe for me to grow and eat vegetables grown in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/is-it-safe-for-me-to-grow-and-eat-vegetables-grown-in-trail/) - Metals in soil and dust can get onto produce. There are things you can do to minimize the potential exposure to metals from home-grown fruit and vegetables. Get your soil tested. THEP will replace garden soil that exceeds 400 parts per million lead. Always wash fruits and vegetables before eating them. Peel root vegetables before
- [How is the presence of children defined?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/how-is-the-presence-of-children-defined/) - In the annual soil management plans, priority will be given to properties where children under 12 live or visit regularly. This would include where children are present two or more days each week for periods of three hours or more, or a total of 60 hours or more each year.
- [Is drinking water a source of lead exposure in Trail?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/is-drinking-water-a-source-of-lead-exposure-in-trail-2/) - Lead in drinking water is not considered a source of lead exposure in the City of Trail. Drinking water is tested regularly at the City's two sources and confirmed to meet all the guidelines for Canadian drinking water quality for metals (including lead), chemicals and other potential risks to water quality. The City’s drinking water is believed
- [How can I tell if my shop vac is leaking?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/how-can-i-tell-if-my-shop-vac-is-leaking/) - One trick we’ve learned is to rub dish soap around the seal and turn on the vacuum. If you see bubbles, there’s a leak. Consider fixing the seal with Vaseline or something similar. If that doesn’t work, you may need a new part, a new vacuum, or maybe you’ll find a new fix and have
- [How does Teck share air quality information locally?](https://thep.ca/docs/air-faq/how-does-teck-share-air-quality-information-locally/) - Teck shares summary information at the bi-monthly Trail Area Health & Environment Committee (THEC) meetings which are open to the public. All air quality reports are also published online at thep.ca. Lastly, Teck participates in the THEC Air Quality Working Group to share more detailed information on air quality management at Teck and in the
- [How can I get more involved?](https://thep.ca/docs/about-thep-faq/how-can-i-get-more-involved/) - Community involvement is a long-standing commitment of THEC. The easiest way to learn more is to attend a THEC meeting. There are five meetings a year and they are open to the public. You can attend online or in person. Everyone is welcome. If you want to engage further, there are six spots on the committee
- [Can you tell me about your prioritization criteria?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/can-you-tell-me-about-your-prioritization-criteria/) - Soil testing is available to anyone in THEP's Soil Management Area. Three criteria are used to determine priorities for soil management: the presence of children under 12 years of age; the quality of ground cover; and lead levels in soil. The prioritization criteria is based on the U.S. Housing and Urban Development approach to identifying childhood
- [How can I be lead safe when cleaning the gutters?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/how-can-i-be-lead-safe-when-cleaning-the-gutters-2/) - A suggestion from a Trail Area Lead Safe Contractor is to use a shop vac with a long hose to get all the dust and debris out of the gutters, preventing clogged downspouts and keeping dust down.
- [How can I contain dust when removing roofing materials?](https://thep.ca/docs/built-environments-faq/how-can-i-contain-dust-when-removing-roofing-materials-2/) - A roofing contractor showed us how he leans plywood against the side of a house or fence with a tarp underneath on the ground. This acts as sheeting when the old shingles are pulled off and it protects the house, keeps the dust contained, and can be easily vacuumed or hosed off at the end
- [Won’t lead exposure increase if the entire block is being dug up?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/wont-lead-exposure-increase-if-the-entire-block-is-being-dug-up/) - THEP aims to keep dust down during soil removal and replacement, and uses several methods to manage this, including: Homeowners will be asked to moisten their soil daily in the week prior to digging. Moist soils create less dust. Contractors will keep soils damp by sprinkling during digging and covering truck loads with tarps where
- [How much time will the soil management work take on a block?](https://thep.ca/docs/soil-faq/how-much-time-will-the-soil-management-work-take-on-a-block/) - The soil management process at an entire block is estimated to take up to 45 days. The timing will vary depending on access and complexity of individual yards.

## Events

- [Children’s Lead Testing Clinics Start September 15](https://thep.ca/events/childrens-lead-testing-clinics-2026/) - Join us at Kiro Wellness Centre 1500 Columbia Ave. Sept 15, 23, 28 from 9:00am – 3:00pm Sept 16, 21, 29 from 11:30am -5:30pm To book an appointment or for more information call or text 250-231-5945 Who Can Attend? Children 6-36 months who spend the majority of their day in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale,
- [THEC Meeting](https://thep.ca/events/thec-meeting-2-975-345/) - Meetings are open to the public and the community is encouraged to participate. THEC will host HYBRID (virtual and in-person) meetings in 2026 where possible. All meetings begin at 7pm. Contact us by email to receive the link to attend. For in-person participation, the location is City of Trail, City Hall – Committee Room #2,
- [THEC Meeting](https://thep.ca/events/thec-meeting-2/) - Meetings are open to the public and the community is encouraged to participate. THEC will host HYBRID (virtual and in-person) meetings in 2025 where possible. All meetings begin at 7pm. Contact us by email to receive the link to attend. For in-person participation, the location is City of Trail, City Hall – Committee Room #2, Spokane
- [THEC Meeting](https://thep.ca/events/thec-meeting-2-975/) - Meetings are open to the public and the community is encouraged to participate. THEC will host HYBRID (virtual and in-person) meetings in 2025 where possible. All meetings begin at 7pm. Contact us by email to receive the link to attend. For in-person participation, the location is City of Trail, City Hall – Committee Room #2, Spokane
- [THEC Meeting](https://thep.ca/events/thec-meeting/) - Meetings are open to the public and the community is encouraged to participate. THEC will host HYBRID (virtual and in-person) meetings in 2023 where possible. All meetings begin at 7pm. Contact us by email to receive the link to attend. For in-person participation, the location is City of Trail, City Hall – Committee Room #2, Spokane St. Entrance.
- [Committee Meeting](https://thep.ca/events/committee-meeting/) - Meetings are open to the public and the community is encouraged to participate. All meetings begin at 7pm and are currently held online. Contact us by email to receive the link to attend.
- [Children’s Lead Testing Clinics - September 2020](https://thep.ca/events/childrens-lead-testing-clinics/) - To book an appointment or for more information call or text 250-231-5945 Who Can Attend? Children 6-36 months who spend the majority of their day in Trail, Casino, Oasis, Rivervale, Waneta or Warfield Children 6-60 months who recently moved to the area, have never been tested, or live in a recently renovated home in the
- [Air Quality Working Group](https://thep.ca/events/air-quality-working-group/) - The Air Quality Working Group is currently held via zoom, please contact programs@thep.ca for meeting details.

## Courses

- [Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) Onboarding Guide 101](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/) - This guide aims to help you understand THEP’s origin, purpose, achievements, ways of working, and values.Through the resources shared in different modules, and your work with THEP, it is hoped that readers will:Learn about the history of THEP.Understand the studies, science, and structure of THEP. Work outside their area of expertise to see the bigger

## Lessons

- [Soil Management](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/soil-management/) - SoilIn recent years, soil management activities have increasingly been guided by broader planning processes, including the development of the Wide Area Remediation Plan (WARP). WARP brings together environmental data, program experience, community input, and a Medical Health Officer recommendation to help identify priorities and support a coordinated approach to remediating and reducing all lead exposure
- [Air Quality](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/air-quality/) - Air Quality The Air Quality Program works to improve air quality in the community through emissions reductions, air quality monitoring, and community dust control.Air Quality Program activities work together to get the best results – lower exposure, lower health risks, and a healthier environment. Emissions reductions from Teck Trail Operations Dust control in the community Air
- [About](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/about/) - Key PointsThe Trail Area Health & Environment Program (THEP) supports the community of Trail and surrounding areas to live, work and play in an area influenced by smelter air emissions for more than 125 years.THEP (the ‘Program’) is a partnership between the City of Trail, Teck Trail Operations, Interior Health, and the B.C. Ministry of
- [Integration, Understanding, and Creating Value](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/integration-understanding-and-creating-value/) - Integration, Understanding, and Creating ValueThe program is designed to address lead exposure as a system, recognizing that different sources and pathways are interconnected. Air, soil, indoor dust, housing conditions, and health outcomes all influence one another, and changes in one area can affect others. As a result, program activities are coordinated to ensure they are
- [Community Connectedness & Leadership](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/community-connectedness-leadership/) - Community Connectedness & LeadershipCommunity connection is a core part of how the program operates. Rather than functioning separately from the community, program activities are delivered through ongoing relationships with families, local organizations, businesses, and government partners. This approach supports trust, improves access to services, and helps ensure that information is shared consistently across the community.Engagement
- [Health](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/health/) - Health The brief below provides further information on the Health Program's ways of working.Supporting family health through blood lead testingThe Trail Area Health & Environment Program’s Health Program helps protect children in Trail by offering free, voluntary blood lead level testing for families with young children. Held twice a year, these clinics provide families with
- [Introduction to Topic Briefs](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/introduction-to-topic-briefs/) - Introduction to Topic BriefsThe next modules present topic briefs related to each of THEP's programs and focus areas. These briefs are summarized below. The purpose of these briefs is to provide further detail on each of THEP's programs, and to showcase some practical examples of how THEP works. Air Quality Brief (PDF) Built Environments Brief
- [Change Over Time](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/change-over-time/) - Change Over TimeThe graph below shows the annual average for lead in community air, as well as lead in children’s blood from 1992 to 2024. The graph indicates:Since 2018, Pb in airborne dust has been lower than the U.S. EPA standard of 0.15 micrograms per cubic metre µg/m3. Canada doesn’t have an applicable standard.Teck’s Fugitive
- [Module 6 Learnings](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/module-6-learnings/) - Module 6 LearningsIn this module, you have learned about:How lead levels in the air and in children's blood have changed over time.Key components of each program, and who delivers them. If you have any questions or would like more information about any of these topics, feel free to reach out to us: programs@thep.ca.
- [Module 5 Learnings](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/module-5-learnings/) - Module 5 LearningsIn this module, you have learned about:How local leadership is a unique approach in TrailTHEP’s collaborative and community focused approachIf you have any questions or would like more information about any of these topics, feel free to reach out to us: programs@thep.ca.
- [Module 4 Learnings](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/module-4-learnings/) - Module 4 LearningsIn this module, you have learned about:THEP's originThe differences between the Lead Task Force (1990-2000) and the program (THEP) and committee (THEC) that have been in place since 2001. If you have any questions or would like more information about any of these topics, feel free to reach out to us: programs@thep.ca.
- [Module 3 Learnings](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/module-3-learnings/) - Module 3 LearningsIn this module, you have learned about:THEP's purpose and valuesKey resources and links If you have any questions or would like more information about any of these topics, feel free to reach out to us: programs@thep.ca.
- [Module 2 Learnings](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/module-2-learnings/) - Module 2 LearningsIn this module, you have learned about:THEP's ways of workingThe various stakeholders involved in and with THEPTHEP's key actions/activities carried out within the community If you have any questions or would like more information about any of these topics, feel free to reach out to us: programs@thep.ca.
- [How To Use This Guide](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/how-to-use-this-guide/) - How to Use this GuideDepending on your role, you may be interested in learning the basics or taking a deep dive. Learning of these modules can be completed at your own pace. You could go through it all in a couple of hours, or schedule yourself to digest modules over time.Select the module to go
- [Who Is This Guide For?](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/who-is-this-guide-for/) - Who Is This Guide For?This guide may be useful for a number of people and groups, including THEP partners, THEP team members, THEC members and working groups, as well as members of the KS&L Trail group. To better understand how each of these groups fit together, see the diagram below.THEP partnersTHEP uses a partnership approach
- [The Secret Sauce In Trail](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/the-secret-sauce-in-trail/) - The Secret Sauce in TrailLocal leadershipTHEP is in contact with other communities around the world with operating lead smelters (e.g. Hoboken, Belgium and Port Pirie, Australia) and local leadership to convene all parties together is not common practice.Trail is the only location that has local leadership and community participation on the stakeholder committee. THEC is
- [What's Next?](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/whats-next/) - What's Next?At this point, you have covered the essence of our purpose, program direction / focus, history, values, and secret sauce.If you have not been to Trail yet, this is a good time to plan a visit to meet people on the ground!THEP has a 1-2 hr walking tour that provides invaluable local context to
- [How THEP Began](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/how-thep-began/) - How THEP BeganThe story begins in the late 1980’s when a group of parents living in the Tadanac neighbourhood in Trail worried about their children’s higher-than-average blood lead levels. They went to Cominco, the company who owned the Trail smelter and metallurgical facility at the time, to see what could be done. The company reached
- [THEP's Purpose & Values](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/theps-purpose-values/) - THEP PurposeTHEP’s purpose is to support the community of Trail and surrounding areas to live, work, and play in an area influenced by smelter air emissions.THEP ValuesTHEP has six key values:HealthCommunityPartnershipScience-basedAccountabilityTrustworthyEach of these is explained below.Value: HealthThe program prioritizes reducing health risks and empowering individuals to manage their health.Program resources are targeted at reducing people’s
- [Key Actions](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/key-actions/) - Key ActionsThere are several important actions that THEP carries out in the community, as shown below. All THEP community programs are free, and residents can sign up easily online.Healthy Families Healthy HomesExpectant families and all families with children aged three and under are offered in home visits.Visits are focused on education and prevention of lead
- [Abbreviations & Acronyms](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/abbreviations-acronyms/) - Abbreviations & AcronymsThe acronyms to follow are used in this guide and in THEP/THEC vernacular.AQWG Air Quality Working Group BC British Columbia BL Blood lead BLL Blood lead level CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CPO Community Program Office ENV Ministry of Environment and Parks FAQs Frequently Asked Questions FDRP Fugitive Dust Reduction Program IH Interior Health KS&L Knowledge Sharing & Learning Trail Group LCEMP Lower Columbia Ecosystem Management Program Pb Lead PHO Provincial Health OfficerSO2 Sulphur Dioxide THEC Trail Area Health &
- [What Does THEP Deliver and Who Does What?](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/what-does-thep-deliver-and-who-does-what/) - What Does THEP Deliver and Who Does What?What?THEP supports the community of Trail and surrounding areas to live, work and play in an area influenced by smelter air emissions for over 125 years. THEP focuses on air, soil, health, built environments (e.g. homes, daycares, fences, sheds, civic buildings, etc.), community connection and understanding the interrelationships
- [Key Resources & Links](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/key-resources-links/) - Key Resources & Links Website Description of all programs, sign up forms, key messages About THEP and THEC Resources including reports, library of information, historical and current documents. Public FAQs as well as knowledge base for internal use by the program team. About us on the website is a condensed version of who THEP/THEC and
- [Our Ways of Working](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/our-ways-of-working/) - Our Ways of WorkingTHEP has a number of values which are discussed in more detail later in this guide. However, the points below are key in all that THEP does and how we interact with one another.
- [About THEP](https://thep.ca/guides/trail-area-health-environment-program-thep-onboarding-guide-101/modules/about-thep/) - About THEPUltimately, THEP supports the community of Trail and surrounding areas to live, work and play in an area influenced by smelter air emissions for more than 125 years.THEP focuses on air, soil, health, built environments (e.g. homes, daycares, fences, sheds, civic buildings, etc.), community connection and understanding the interrelationships between focus areas.THEP aims to

## Timeline Stories

- [Paint Testing for Lead (Pb) included in Healthy Families Healthy Homes and Soil Management Program](https://thep.ca/timeline/paint-testing-for-lead-pb/) - Paint Testing for Lead (Pb) included in Healthy Families Healthy Homes and Soil Management Program
- [Air Quality Program Expands to Include Sulphur Dioxide](https://thep.ca/timeline/air-quality-program-expands-to-include-sulphur-dioxide/)
- [Soil Management Program Expands](https://thep.ca/timeline/yard-remediation-program-expands/)
- [Lead Task Force wraps up, Trail Area Health & Environment Committee established](https://thep.ca/timeline/lead-task-force-wrap-up-recommendations/)
- [Lead Safe Renovation program begins](https://thep.ca/timeline/lead-safe-renovation-program-starts/)
- [Yard Remediation program begins](https://thep.ca/timeline/yard-remediation-program-starts/)
- [Fugitive Dust Reduction Program begins](https://thep.ca/timeline/fugitive-dust-reduction-program-begins/)
- [Healthy Family Healthy Homes begins](https://thep.ca/timeline/healthy-families-healthy-homes/)
- [New KIVCET Lead Smelter](https://thep.ca/timeline/new-kivcet-lead-smelter/)
- [Community dust suppression begins](https://thep.ca/timeline/community-dust-suppression-starts/)
- [Community greening begins](https://thep.ca/timeline/community-greening-starts/)
- [Annual children’s blood lead testing & follow-up begins](https://thep.ca/timeline/annual-childrens-blood-lead-testing-case-management-and-education-start/)
- [Trail Lead Program Development](https://thep.ca/timeline/trail-lead-program-development/)
- [Trail Community Lead Task Force established](https://thep.ca/timeline/trail-community-lead-task-force-established/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://thep.ca/category/uncategorized/)
- [Testimonials](https://thep.ca/category/testimonials/)
- [News and Events](https://thep.ca/category/news-and-events/)
- [Newsletters](https://thep.ca/category/newsletters/)
- [Resources](https://thep.ca/category/resources/)
- [Fact Sheets & Brochures](https://thep.ca/category/resources/fact-sheets/)
- [FAQ](https://thep.ca/category/resources/faq/)
- [Survey Results](https://thep.ca/category/resources/resources-survey-results/)
- [Reports](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/)
- [Minutes](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/)
- [Other](https://thep.ca/category/resources/resources-other/)
- [Activities](https://thep.ca/category/resources/activities/)
- [Other Health Studies](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/other-health-studies/)
- [Air Quality Program Reports (annual)](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/air-quality-program-reports/)
- [Trail Blood Lead Reports (annual)](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/trail-blood-lead-reports-annual/)
- [Other](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/other-reports/)
- [Program Documents](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/program-documents/)
- [Human Health Reports](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/human-health-reports/)
- [2020](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2020/)
- [2019](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2019/)
- [2018](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2018/)
- [2017](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2017/)
- [2016](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2016/)
- [2015](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2015/)
- [2014](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2014/)
- [2013](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2013/)
- [2012](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2012/)
- [2011](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2011/)
- [2010](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2010/)
- [2009](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2009/)
- [Program Research](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/program-research/)
- [2021](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2021/)
- [2022](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2022/)
- [Community Consultation](https://thep.ca/category/resources/community-consultation/)
- [2023](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2023/)
- [Learning Together](https://thep.ca/category/learning-together/)
- [2024](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2024/)
- [Air Quality Program Reports (bi-monthly)](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/air-quality-program-reports-bi-monthly/)
- [2025](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2025/)
- [Soil Management Reports](https://thep.ca/category/resources/reports/soil-management-reports/)
- [2026](https://thep.ca/category/resources/minutes/minutes2026/)

## Tags

- [2020](https://thep.ca/tag/2020/)
- [2019](https://thep.ca/tag/2019/)
- [2018](https://thep.ca/tag/2018/)
- [2017](https://thep.ca/tag/2017/)
- [2016](https://thep.ca/tag/2016/)
- [2015](https://thep.ca/tag/2015/)
- [2014](https://thep.ca/tag/2014/)
- [2013](https://thep.ca/tag/2013/)
- [2012](https://thep.ca/tag/2012/)
- [2011](https://thep.ca/tag/2011/)
- [2010](https://thep.ca/tag/2010/)
- [2008](https://thep.ca/tag/2008/)
- [2007](https://thep.ca/tag/2007/)
- [2006](https://thep.ca/tag/2006/)
- [2005](https://thep.ca/tag/2005/)
- [2003](https://thep.ca/tag/2003/)
- [2002](https://thep.ca/tag/2002/)
- [2021](https://thep.ca/tag/2021/)
- [2022](https://thep.ca/tag/2022/)
- [2023](https://thep.ca/tag/2023/)
- [2024](https://thep.ca/tag/2024/)
- [2025](https://thep.ca/tag/2025/)
- [2026](https://thep.ca/tag/2026/)

## Categories

- [Activities](https://thep.ca/ctl-stories/activities/) - All Activities
- [All](https://thep.ca/ctl-stories/all/) - All timeline stories.
- [Timeline Stories](https://thep.ca/ctl-stories/timeline-stories/) - All timeline stories.

## Docs Categories

- [Health FAQ](https://thep.ca/docs-category/health-faq/)
- [Soil FAQ](https://thep.ca/docs-category/soil-faq/)
- [Built Environments FAQ](https://thep.ca/docs-category/built-environments-faq/)
- [About THEP FAQ](https://thep.ca/docs-category/about-thep-faq/)
- [Air FAQ](https://thep.ca/docs-category/air-faq/)
- [_Internal FAQ](https://thep.ca/docs-category/internal-faq/)
- [Parks](https://thep.ca/docs-category/parks/)
- [Paint](https://thep.ca/docs-category/paint/)
- [Style Guide and Templates](https://thep.ca/docs-category/style-guide-and-templates/) - These internal documents and tools support the consistent visual branding of THEP and THEC activities.

## Docs Tags

- [Lead](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/lead/)
- [Pb](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/pb/)
- [Children and families](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/children-families/)
- [THEP](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/thep/)
- [Sulphur dioxide](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/sulphur-dioxide/)
- [SO2](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/so2/)
- [Air](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/air/)
- [Built Environments](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/built-environments/)
- [Health](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/health/)
- [Community connection](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/community-connection/)
- [Integration](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/integration/)
- [Teck](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/teck/)
- [Province of B.C.](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/province-of-b-c/)
- [Wide Area Remediation Plan](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/wide-area-remediation-plan/)
- [Strategic plan](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/strategic-plan/)
- [Healthy Families Healthy Homes](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/healthy-families-healthy-homes/)
- [Progress](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/progress/)
- [THEC](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/thec/)
- [Trail Lead Task Force](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/trail-lead-task-force/)
- [Research](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/research/)
- [Environment](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/environment/)
- [Renovation](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/renovation/)
- [Paint](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/paint/)
- [Dust](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/dust/)
- [Blood lead testing](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/blood-lead-testing/)
- [Soil testing](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/soil-testing/)
- [Soil management](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/soil-management/)
- [Parks and playgrounds](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/parks-and-playgrounds/)
- [Schools and daycares](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/schools-daycares/)
- [Gardening](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/gardening/)
- [Soil disposal](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/soil-disposal/)
- [Knowledge sharing](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/knowledge-sharing/)
- [Block Initiative](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/block-initiative/)
- [Iron](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/iron/)
- [Leadership](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/leadership/)
- [Local government](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/local-government/)
- [Maternal health](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/maternal-health/)
- [Nutrition](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/nutrition/)
- [Regulations](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/regulations/)
- [City of Trail](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/city-of-trail/)
- [Environmental Management Area](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/environmental-management-area/)
- [EM Area](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/e-m-area/)
- [WARP](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/warp/)
- [Property development](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/property-development/)
- [* PUBLIC *](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/public/)
- [* INTERNAL *](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/internal/)
- [Health care workers](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/health-care-workers/)
- [Expectant and new parents](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/expectant-and-new-parents/)
- [Soil Featured](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/soil-featured/)
- [Parents and Caregivers](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/parents-and-caregivers/)
- [Lead Exposure](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/lead-exposure/)
- [Adults](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/adults/)
- [THRC](https://thep.ca/docs-tag/thrc/)

## Categories

- [Committee Meeting](https://thep.ca/mec-category/committee-meeting/)
- [Children’s Lead Testing Clinics](https://thep.ca/mec-category/childrens-lead-testing-clinics/)