City of Ann Arbor successfully completes soil remediation at Leslie Science & Nature Center
ANN ARBOR – The city of Ann Arbor has announced that outdoor programming can resume at Leslie Science & Nature Center after a complete environmental investigation and soil remediation. In 2019, staff at LSNC asked the city to analyze soil found near an area it had planned to construct a Nature Playscape after noticing an unnatural depression in the ground. Out of an abundance of caution, LSNC staff installed a fence around the area and moved all programming offsite. “I’m thrilled to report that the soil remediation project at Leslie Science & Nature Center has successfully been completed,” Derek Delacourt, City of Ann Arbor Community Service Area administrator, said in a statement. “Now, LSNC staff can focus on planning fall outdoor programming adventures for their families and campers.”✉ Like what you’re reading?
Leslie Science & Nature Center to continue programming off site amid contamination concerns
(Credit: Leisa Thompson)ANN ARBOR - The executive director of the Leslie Science & Nature Center, Susan Westhoff, sent an email letter on Friday afternoon to patrons of LSNC announcing that programming will continue offsite throughout the fall. I wanted to provide you an update on the Leslie Science & Nature Center. This testing revealed some soil contamination was present throughout our site, and additional testing and treatment planning was needed. Field trips for schools continue at Gallup Park, while our scout, birthday and preschool programming take place over at Olson Park. During this challenging time, we have been reminded that the Leslie Science & Nature Center is so much more than a physical site with buildings and 25 acres of land.
Leslie Science & Nature Center changes programming after soil tests positive for heavy metals
Recent soil testing at the Leslie Science & Nature Center showed dangerous levels of heavy metals including lead and arsenic, causing the center to make programming changes. One of the areas that was tested is the future site for the center's Nature Playscape behind the DTE Energy House. As additional soil testing gets underway, the LSNC Park will remain open. Leslie Science Center separated from the City of Ann Arbor in 2007 and became Leslie Science & Nature Center an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. That plan will be informed by subsequent rounds of soil testing that are now getting underway.