Marathon City gets grant to assess contamination at former lumber site

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Marathon City will receive help from the state to assess environmental contamination at a former lumber facility, according to a community announcement.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources awarded brownfield assessment services to the village to investigate the site of the former Weisenberger Tie & Lumber Inc. facility.

The 6-acre property, located near Marathon City's business and industry district, has been mostly vacant and tax delinquent for over a decade.

Suspected contamination has hindered redevelopment

Suspected contamination stems from the facility's historical manufacture and treatment of railroad ties and pressure-treated lumber. The sawmill and wood treatment facility operated from 1970 to the 1990s, according to the announcement.

The DNR conducted some cleanup efforts in the early 2000s, but remaining and suspected contamination from later occupants have hindered redevelopment.

The village sees the property as a target for redevelopment. Assessment and cleanup planning will allow the village to acquire the property and return it to productive use.

DNR program supports brownfield assessment

The award comes from the DNR's Wisconsin Assessment Monies program, which provides contractor services for the environmental assessment of eligible brownfield properties.

A brownfield is a property where expansion, redevelopment or reuse is complicated by real or potential contamination.

Since 2009, the WAM program has provided over $3.5 million in services and grant funds to more than 70 communities across Wisconsin.

 Courtesy: www.wausaudailyherald.com