Savannah Soil: Spanish Moss Hiding Lead Risk?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 31, 2025

The Spanish moss draped across the ancient oaks of Savannah is undeniably beautiful, a signature of the city’s haunting charm. But beneath its ethereal beauty lies a potential danger: lead contamination. Years of industrial activity and the use of lead-based paints have left their mark on the environment, and Spanish moss, acting like a natural air filter, can accumulate these toxins. If you’re a Savannah resident, especially if you have children or pets, understanding how to test your Spanish moss for lead is crucial for protecting your health.

Here’s how Savannah residents can navigate the process of testing Spanish moss for lead contamination, ensuring safety and compliance with local regulations.

First, understand the potential sources of lead contamination in Savannah. Older homes with lead paint that is chipping or flaking can contaminate the soil and surrounding vegetation. Industrial sites, even those long gone, may have left residual lead in the environment. Even vehicle emissions from decades past contributed to lead accumulation in the soil.

Before you even think about touching the moss, prioritize safe handling. Lead is a neurotoxin, and exposure can be particularly harmful to children. Wear disposable gloves (nitrile or latex) when collecting and handling the moss. A dust mask rated N95 or higher is also recommended to prevent inhalation of any potential lead particles.

When collecting your sample, choose moss from various locations around your property. Don’t just grab a handful from one spot. Collect small samples from different trees and at different heights. Aim for a representative sample of the moss on your property. Place each sample in a separate, clean, sealable plastic bag. Label each bag clearly with the location and date of collection. This will help you pinpoint potential sources of contamination if lead is detected.

Now, the crucial step: finding an EPA-approved testing lab. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t directly certify labs for lead testing in moss, but they do certify labs for lead in paint, soil, and water. These labs are equipped to handle lead analysis in various matrices, including plant matter.

Here are a few options to consider in the Savannah area:

SGS Galson (Syracuse, NY - offers mail-in services): While not located directly in Savannah, SGS Galson is a nationally recognized environmental testing lab with extensive experience in lead analysis. They accept samples via mail and provide detailed reports. Call them to confirm their ability to test Spanish moss specifically and to get instructions on sample submission.
Pace Analytical Services (Mount Juliet, TN - offers mail-in services): Similar to SGS Galson, Pace Analytical is a large, reputable lab that offers environmental testing services nationwide. They can analyze samples for lead and other heavy metals. Contact them to discuss your specific needs and to obtain a quote.
Local Environmental Consultants: Search for local environmental consulting firms in Savannah. These firms often have relationships with certified labs and can handle the sample collection and submission process for you. They can also provide interpretation of the results and recommend remediation strategies if necessary.

When contacting a lab, be sure to ask these questions:

Can you analyze Spanish moss for lead content?
What is your detection limit for lead? (Lower is better)
What is the cost per sample?
What is the turnaround time for results?
Do you provide a detailed report with quality control data?
Are you accredited by a recognized organization (e.g., AIHA)?

Once you’ve chosen a lab, carefully follow their instructions for sample submission. This usually involves completing a chain-of-custody form and packaging the samples securely to prevent contamination during transport.

After you receive the lab results, carefully review the report. The report will typically indicate the concentration of lead in the moss, usually expressed in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). Compare the results to EPA guidelines for lead in soil, as there are no specific guidelines for lead in Spanish moss. While not a direct comparison, this will give you a general idea of the level of contamination.

If lead is detected above acceptable levels, remediation is necessary. This is where things get tricky, as there are no specific guidelines for remediating lead-contaminated Spanish moss in Savannah.

Here’s a practical approach:

Removal: The safest option is often to remove the affected Spanish moss. Carefully cut the moss from the trees, minimizing disturbance to prevent the spread of lead particles.
Disposal: Contact the Chatham County Solid Waste Department for guidance on proper disposal of lead-contaminated materials. Do not simply throw the moss in your regular trash. It may need to be disposed of as hazardous waste.
Soil Testing: If the moss is heavily contaminated, consider testing the soil around the base of the trees. Lead can leach from the moss into the soil over time.
Soil Remediation: If the soil is also contaminated, you may need to implement soil remediation strategies, such as soil replacement or lead stabilization. Consult with an environmental professional for guidance.
Prevention: To prevent future contamination, address any potential sources of lead on your property, such as chipping lead paint. Consider encapsulating or removing lead paint safely.

A common mistake is assuming that all Spanish moss is safe. Don’t make assumptions. Testing is the only way to know for sure. Another pitfall is improper sample collection. A single sample from one location may not be representative of the entire property.

Another challenge is interpreting the lab results. Understanding the units of measurement and comparing them to relevant guidelines can be confusing. Don’t hesitate to ask the lab for clarification.

Finally, remember that lead contamination is a serious issue. If you’re concerned about lead exposure, consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess your risk and recommend appropriate testing and treatment.

Testing Spanish moss for lead in Savannah is not just about protecting your property; it’s about safeguarding the health of your family and community. By following these steps, you can take proactive measures to identify and address potential lead contamination, ensuring a safer and healthier environment for everyone.