Flower care

Chromated Copper Arsenate Lumber treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA) treated lumber was phased out of consumer/residential products as of December 31, 2003. This was a voluntary decision by industry to move away from treated wood containing arsenic to new alternative preservatives. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not require or recommend replacing existing CCA-treated structures at this time. Although the EPA does say that any reduction in arsenic exposure is desirable, it has not concluded that there is unreasonable risk associated with CCA-treated products. Those concerned about existing structures in their yards or gardens can either seal the treated wood every two years with an oil-based stain, or insert plastic liners into the containers to eliminate contact with soil.