Eleven years ago, the Chicago Sun-Times conducted an investigatory study of asbestos levels on the shores of Illinois Beach State Park. The result? They found that asbestos fibers and asbestos-containing materials contaminate the sands of the 6.5 mile park, where 2 million people visit each year.

But since the publication of these findings, no action has been taken. Park officials claim that the beach is safe, even though documents from the Environmental Protection Agency suggest otherwise. Just two years ago, the EPA determined that the park has "significantly elevated" levels of asbestos contamination, including the presence of amphiboie, the most toxic form of asbestos.

Last year, EPA authorities attempted to stir up the sand with typical beach-going activities, such as games of frisbee and volleyball. In doing so, they hoped to determine if regular beach visitors were at risk of inhaling loosened fibers. Responding to questions just last week, the EPA said a preliminary analysis "confirmed previous studies showing low levels of potential asbestos exposure for recreational users of the beach."

But still, the beach remains open to the public.

Large pieces of asbestos often wash up on the shore. There are signs warning against handling the material, but to children and others who do not read the postings, the asbestos looks just like any other stone.

An EPA authority, Dr. Aubrey Miller, has confirmed that even short-term exposure to low levels of asbestos can cause mesothlioma. Given this fact, it is inexcusable that the beach has remained opened for over a decade after initial asbestos concerns were raised. The EPA has stated that their conclusive analysis won't be available until late August, when (yet another) beach season has ended.

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