The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $895,000 to the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) for the assessment of brownfields in the county. Brownfields are lands that are domant and unused because of actually or suspected environmental contamination. The properties remain idle because investors are afraid to commit to the cost and uncertainties involved in a major environmental cleanup.

The EPA grant will allow the BRPC to inspect the properties and test soil and groundwater for contamination. When contamination, like the presence of asbestos or industrial solvents, is found on the property, the BRPC will develop a cleanup plan. Having the cleanup plan already laid out saves a buyer money and relieves the uncertainty that prevents potential investors from committing to a property.