> Considering the existing DDT contamination, ending up with dirt that needs to be fortified with compost is hardly the worst trade-off.

I would definitely bet against this if I could. Soil is far more potent than DDT can harm.

I don't think anyone is really too concerned about DDT harming the soil itself.

DDT, like organic mercury compounds, bioaccumulates up the food chain. Contaminated soil is sequestered to prevent it from contaminating insects and animals and then humans.

Hence, the trade-off: DDT in the ecosystem, or killing soil and rebuilding it with compost and time.

You shouldn't call it "soil" after treating it like this. Maybe "processed earth" or something like that