DOUGLAS COUNTY (KOLO) -- The Environmental Protection Agency will be asked to determine what measures need to be taken at a school where tests showed higher than recommended radon levels.

The Douglas County School District decided to ask for the EPA's help at a meeting Tuesday. The District is also moving forward with seeking contractors to perform mitigation efforts at Zephyr Cove Elementary.

KOLO archives state that the school was determined to have higher than the recommended level of radon in late 2006. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is colorless, odorless and is released by soil. Long-term exposure to high levels can cause lung cancer.

One parent pushed the district for a timeline. There was discussion among school officials that it's hoped further measures could be done in time for the beginning of the next school year. Some mitigation steps have already been taken.

Members of the public told the District Zephyr Cove students need a safe learning environment.