Soil Contamination

      During the first five years of the 1990s studies of heavy metal concentration in soil and plant matter were carried out several times. The tests were done in areas located along main transportation routes, in selected allotments, agricultural land and grassland.
      It is assumed that studies of heavy metal concentrations in soil are valid for about 5 years and should then be carried out again. Studies were carried out in Cieszyn between 1992 and 1995 which is why the numerical data is not quoted in this paper. It should be stated, however, that in areas adjoining roads, included in the study in 1992, the concentration of some heavy metals was found to be higher or to have exceeded acceptable levels. On the basis of research carried out between 1993 and 1995 it was stated that:

• The Cieszyn area is exposed to dust fall containing considerate amounts of heavy metals;
• the highest amount of insoluble forms of some heavy metals (particularly high iron and manganese content) approaches the town from the south;
• high concentrations of heavy metals in soil appear in forms that are easily absorbed by plants and thus included in the food chain (plants contaminated with heavy metals are eaten by breeding animals or directly by man) which is a disturbing phenomenon.

Measures taken to protect soil

      Taking into account the high concentrations of heavy metals in dust fall and in soil, and also acid rain phenomenon that occurs in The Cieszyn area, between 1994 and 1995 and in 1998 measures were taken to reduce the process of heavy metal absorption by agronomic plants. Absorption of heavy metals by plants takes place most intensively in acid soils; liming of soil is a simple treatment that reduces the mentioned phenomenon thus raising the pH value of the soil.
      In 1994 168,001 farms were subjected to the liming project, 896 samples of soil were taken and 1,027 tonnes of lime fertilizer were bought and distributed to farmers according to previously specified needs.
      In 1995 a following 34 farms were included in the project from which 204 samples of soil were taken and 27 horticultural farms from which 70 samples were taken and tested. In liming action 1,125 tonnes of lime were used.
      In 1998 39 farms of 10 ha or more were studied, 427 soil samples were taken and tested, 125 samples of plant material were tested for nitrates concentration and 9 samples of plant material for heavy metals concentration. 153 tonnes of lime fertilizer was purchased. Acceptable nitrate concentration was exceeded in 10 samples of plant material; acceptable heavy metal concentration was exceeded in 5 samples (18 kinds of common vegetables and fruit were tested).
      The owners of all the farms included in the study were trained by the personnel gathering samples for the research and received detailed fertilizing guidelines along with detailed instructions and comments concerning study results. The project had not only practical value but also educational purpose. All of the above described actions were financed from the town's budget.