Orientating investigation (Phase IIa) of the Bad Arolsen firing range, Bad Arolsen

An economic unit (WE) with five different suspected contamination areas, which were identified in the previous Phase I, was analysed. The target/bullet trap areas of the individual firing ranges represent the suspected contamination areas.

The WE was used by the German Armed Forces as a firing range between 1964 and 1997. Prior to this, the area was used for agricultural purposes. In 2002, the site was handed over to the Federal Real Estate Agency and is now being examined for harmful soil changes as part of a planned restitution measure.

The aim of the exploratory investigation was to check for possible contamination, taking into account the soil-human impact pathway. As part of the project, the topsoil of the firing range areas was analysed. For a reliable statement as to whether there were any projectile residues in the embankments, these were examined by means of trenching. In addition, trenches were also dug in the target/bullet trap area of the long ranges for closer examination.

The results of the investigations and chemical analyses are documented and evaluated in an expert report. A risk assessment was carried out with regard to the soil-human impact pathway and recommendations for measures were formulated.