There have been questions to the ACC from Association Homeowners regarding the use of Creosote coated timbers in their landscaping plans. Below are some findings that are shared here strictly as a convenience. No new Association Landscapes should include materials containing creosote based on the following:

• The EPA can't really regulate home owners, but they have stopped the availability of creosote ties, and forbid professional installation of such at residential sites. The EPA has also published the following information to educate the public.
• http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/factsheets/chemicals/creosote_prelim_risk_assess.htm
  • Cancellation and use termination requests affecting virtually all residential uses of chromated copper arsenate (CCA)-treated wood. These CCA products cannot be used after December 30, 2003, to treat lumber intended for most residential settings.
• http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/chemicals/creosote_prelim_risk_assess.htm#six
  • Question #6 specifically speaks to RR ties in landscaping
• http://www.epa.gov/superfund/sites/rods/fulltext/r2002020001368.pdf
  • Ruling on use of creosote near a mall property - now a superfund site - specifically references contamination of groundwater - so this is a good argument for concern with contamination of the lake