Reports show that a 150-acre asbestos disposal site close to Lake Michigan currently contains an estimated three million cubic yards of asbestos ridden debris.
One beach of particular concern is the Oak Street Beach which is along the Illinois shoreline.
The beaches surrounding Lake Michigan are known for having a long history of asbestos contamination and researchers continue to look into the problem.
Asbestos Dumped and Carried Downstream
For the past 20 years, asbestos fibers from Johns-Manville Asbestos Superfund site in Illinois have been dumped daily and carried by currents throughout Lake Michigan.
The asbestos is often carried into Oak Street Beach, a popular recreation spot with the largest area of deep water.
Hundreds of triathletes, scuba divers and long-distance swimmers visit Oak Street Beach yearly.
However, the Illinois Dunesland Preservation Society recently issued a warning to those who visit the beach this summer.
Visitors Told to be Cautious
The following tips warnings have been issued to all adults and children who decide to visit the beaches surrounding Lake Michigan in upcoming months:
- Avoid eating and drinking while at the beach
- Avoid playing in the sand
- Shower and clean all possession thoroughly before leaving the beach
(Source: Environment News Service)
Have you been exposed to asbestos? If so, please contact us today to speak with someone about the resources available to you.
