Tribune invites public to community discussion on lead in South Bend soil

A recent Tribune story reported on elevated lead levels in South Bend soil — a problem tied to the lead paint used in older homes.

A Tribune forum on Aug. 14 will feature a panel of experts discussing the issue, offering information on testing and remedial actions that can be taken.

Lead can cause devastating life-long health complications, including brain and nerve damage, said the St. Joseph County Health Department . It can damage the developing brains of children, causing lower IQ points and behavior problems. Children younger than 7 are most at risk. Pregnant women can transfer lead to their unborn child.

The conversation, "Tribune Talks: Lead in the soil," will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday on the Tribune's Facebook page .

The forum will feature the following panelists:

Marya Lieberman is an analytical chemist and professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Notre Dame. She is a member of Notre Dame Lead Innovation Team.

Briannah McCall is the leading lead risk assessor with the St. Joseph County Department of Health.

Kathy Schuth is a co-founder of the St. Joseph County Lead Affinity Group . She is executive director of the Near Northwest Neighborhood, Inc.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Tribune invites public to community discussion on lead in South Bend soil