United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Solid Waste And
Emergency Response
(5201 G)
SUPERFUND:
EPA/540/R-95/071
PB95-962903
9200.5-703C
May 1995
Progress at
National
Priority
List Sites
ALASKA
1995 UPDATE
Pnnted on Recycled Paper
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How to Use the NPL Book
3
\
The site fact sheets presented in this book
are comprehensive summaries that cover a
broad range of information. The fact sheets
describe hazardous waste sites on the NPL and
their locations, as well as the conditions
leading to their listing ("Site Description").
The summaries list the types of contaminants
that have been discovered and related threats
to public and ecological health ("Threats and
Contaminants"). "Cleanup Approach" pres-
ents an overview of the cleanup activities
completed, underway, or planned. The fact
sheets conclude with a brief synopsis of how
much progress has been made in protecting
public health and the environment. The
summaries also pinpoint other actions, such as
legal efforts to involve polluters responsible
for site contamination and community con-
cerns.
The fact sheets are arranged in alphabetical
order by site name. Because site cleanup is a
dynamic and gradual process, all site informa-
tion is accurate as of the date shown on the
bottom of each page. Progress is always being
made at NPL sites, and the EPA periodically
will update the site fact sheets to reflect recent
actions. The following two pages show a
generic fact sheet and briefly describe the
information under each section.
How Can You Use
This State Book?
You can use this book to keep informed
about the sites that concern you, particu-
larly ones close to home. The EPA is commit-
ted to involving the public in the decision
making process associated with hazardous
waste cleanup. The Agency solicits input from
area residents in communities affected by
Superfund sites. Citizens are likely to be
affected not only by hazardous site conditions,
but also by the remedies that combat them.
Site cleanups take many forms and can affect
communities in different ways. Local traffic
may be rerouted, residents may be relocated,
temporary water supplies may be necessary.
Definitive information on a site can help
citizens sift through alternatives and make
decisions. To make good choices, you must
know what the threats are and how the EPA
intends to clean up the site. You must under-
stand the cleanup alternatives being proposed
for site cleanup and how residents may be
affected by each one. You also need to have
some idea of how your community intends to
use the site in the future, and you need to know
what the community can realistically expect
once the cleanup is complete.
The EPA wants to develop cleanup methods
that meet community needs, but the Agency
only can take local concerns into account if it
understands what they are. Information must
travel both ways in order for cleanups to be
effective and satisfactory. Please take this
opportunity to learn more, become involved,
and assure that hazardous waste cleanup at
"your" site considers your community's
concerns.
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NPL LISTING HISTORY
Provides the dates when the
site was Proposed, made Final,
and Deleted from the NPL.
SITE RESPONSIBILITY
Identifies the Federal, State,
and/or potentially responsible
parties taking responsibility
for cleanup actions at the site.
ENVIRONMENTAL
PROGRESS
Summarizes the actions to
reduce the threats to nearby
residents and the surrounding
environment and the progress
towards cleaning up the site.
SITE NAME
STATE
EPAID# ABCOOOOOOO
Site Description
EPA REGION XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
Other Names:
t XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX :
: xxxxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxx xxxx xx xxxxxxxxx xx xxxxxx xxxxxxxx \
: xxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx xx xxxxxx xxxx xxxxx xxxx x xxx ;
XXXXXXX XXX XXx3Btft*j(XXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXXXX ;
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX^&IHJ^C XXX XX XXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX .11. inniTMliUjlll JULJI XXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXX XXX XXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXXX XXX XXXXX XjS&W^JtXX XXXXXX XX XXXX XXX XXXXX XXX XXXXX XXX XXXXX
Site Responsibility:
xxxxxx xxx xxxxx :
XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX
NPL Listing History
Proposed: XX/XX/XX
Final- XX/XX/XX
Threats and Contaminants
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XX XXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX
XXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXX XXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX
XXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX X XXX XX
XXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX
XXXXXXXXX
Cleanup Approach
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XX XXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX X XXX XXXXXXXX
Response Action Status
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX ;
XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XX XXXXXXXXX XX ;
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX X 3
XXXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXX XXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX ;
XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX X XXX XX XXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXX
XXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXX
XXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXXX XXX XXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXX ;
Site Facts:
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XX XXXXXXXXX XX
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX X XXX
xxx xxxxxx
Environmental Progress
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XX XXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXX
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX X XXX XXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXX XXXXXX XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
Site Repository
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX
SITE REPOSITORY
Lists the location of the primary site repository. The site
repository may include community relations plans, public
meeting announcements and minutes, fact sheets, press
releases, and other site-related documents.
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SITE DESCRIPTION
This section describes the location and history of the site. It includes descrip-
tions of the most recent activities and past actions at the site that have con-
tributed to the contamination. Population estimates, land usages, and nearby
resources give readers background on the local setting surrounding the site.
THREATS AND CONTAMINANTS
The major chemical categories of site contamination are noted, as well as
which environmental resources are affected. Icons representing each of the
affected resources (may include air, groundwater, surface water, soil, and
contamination to environmentally sensitive areas) are included in the margins
of this section. Potential threats to residents and the surrounding environ-
ments arising from the site contamination also are described.
CLEANUP APPROACH
This section contains a brief overview of how the site is being cleaned up.
RESPONSE ACTION STATUS
Specific actions that have been accomplished or will be undertaken to clean
up the site are described here. Cleanup activities at NPL sites are divided
into separate phases, depending on the complexity and required actions at the
site. Two major types of cleanup activities often are described: initial,
immediate, or emergency actions to quickly remove or reduce imminent
threats to the community and surrounding areas; and long-term remedial
phases directed at final cleanup at the site. Each stage of the cleanup strategy
is presented in this section of the summary. Icons representing the stage of
the cleanup process (initial actions, site investigations, EPA selection of the
cleanup remedy, engineering design phase, cleanup activities underway, and
completed cleanup) are located in the margin next to each activity descrip-
tion.
SITE FACTS
Additional information on activities and events at the site are included in this
section. Often details on legal or administrative actions taken by the EPA to
achieve site cleanup or other facts pertaining to community involvement with
the site cleanup process are reported here.
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Guide to the NPL Book Icons
The "icons," or symbols, accompanying the text allow the reader to see at a glance which envi-
ronmental resources are affected and the status of cleanup activities at the site.
Icons in the Threats
and Contaminants
Section
Icons in the Response
Action Status Section
Contaminated Groundwater re-
sources in the vicinity or underlying
the site. (Groundwater is often used
as a drinking water source.)
Contaminated Surface Water and
Sediments on or near the site.
(These include lakes, ponds,
streams, and rivers.)
Contaminated Air in the vicinity of
the site. (Air pollution usually is
periodic and involves contaminated
dust particles or hazardous gas
emissions.)
Contaminated Soil and Sludges on
or near the site. (This contamination
category may include bulk or other
surface hazardous wastes found on
the site.)
Threatened or contaminated Envi-
ronmentally Sensitive Areas in the
vicinity of the site. (Examples
include wetlands and coastal areas
or critical habitats.)
Initial, Immediate, or Emergency
Actions have been taken or are
underway to eliminate immediate
threats at the site.
Site Studies at the site to determine
the nature and extent of contamina-
tion are planned or underway.
Remedy Selected indicates that site
investigations have been concluded,
and the EPA has selected a final
cleanup remedy for the site or part
of the site.
Remedy Design means that engi-
neers are preparing specifications
and drawings for the selected
cleanup technologies.
Cleanup Ongoing indicates that the
selected cleanup remedies for the
contaminated site, or part of the site,
currently are underway.
Cleanup Complete shows that all
cleanup goals have been achieved
for the contaminated site or part of
the site.
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EPA ID
Number
AK4170024323
AKD004904215
AKD980988158
AK1570028646
AK8570028649
AK6214522157
AK6210022426
AKD980978787
Site Name
ADAK NAVAL AIR STATION
ALASKA BATTERY ENTERPRISES
ARCTIC SURPLUS
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE
FORT RICHARDSON (USARMY)
FORT WAINWRIGHT
STANDARD STEEL & METALS SALVAGE YARD (USDOT)
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NAVAL AIR
STATION ADA&
ALASKA
EPA ID# AK41 70024323
EPA REGION 10
Aleutian Islands
Adak Island
Site Description
The Naval Air Station (NAS) Adak, approximately 61,000 acres in size, is located on Adak
Island, near the western end of the Aleutian Islands. Adak Island became a military base in
1942; in 1950, all defense facilities on the island were taken over by the Navy. Over a 40-year
period, hazardous substances were disposed of in areas on the island, including landfills, storage
areas, drum disposal areas, spill sites, and pits for waste oil and fire-fighting training.
Chlorinated solvents, batteries, and transformer oils containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
are some of the hazardous materials present at the site. Further investigations in 1988 found
PCBs, lead, and silver. The Navy recommended seven areas for further study and three for
immediate action. The island has high winds and frequent storms. The southern half of the
island is a Federally-designated wilderness area, and the entire island is part of the Alaska
Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. A wide variety of marine mammals and waterfowl inhabit
the near-shore areas. The local population uses the surface waters for recreational purposes,
subsistence, and commercial fishing and has easy access to some parts of the site. An estimated
1,000 people live within 1 mile of the site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/14/92
Final Date: 05/31/94
Threats and Contaminants
Sediments, surface water, and soil in several locations on the island are contaminated
with petroleum-related constituents, PCBs, and metals. Potential contaminants of
concern include chlorinated solvents and unexploded ordinance. Although groundwater
is not now, nor is it expected to be, a source for drinking water, it is contaminated
with petroleum and is a potential pathway to the island's surface water. Drinking or
touching contaminated surface water, soils, sediments or groundwater could pose a
health risk. The contaminants pose a threat to the sensitive environments both on and
off the island, including the Wildlife Refuge, migratory pathways, spawning areas and
feeding areas for fish, State land designated for game management, and wetlands.
February 1995
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase focus ing
on the cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1988, a number of buried storage tanks and abandoned drums
were removed from three areas on the site. In the fall of 1992 several PCB-
contaminated sites were excavated and stockpiled at a central location on the base.
Entire Site: The Navy initiated an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site in late 1993. The investigation will better characterize
groundwater properties, determine metals concentration in site soils, and survey the
ecological habitats on the northern half of the island. Possible interim actions include containment
and stabilization measures designed to protect the near-shore marine environment.
Site Facts: In November 1993, the Navy, the EPA and the Alaska Department of
Environmental Conservation (ADEC) signed a Federal Facilities Agreement for cleaning up the
site.
Environmental Progress
Contamination was removed from several areas at the Naval Air Station Adak site, reducing
immediate threats posed to the nearby population and environment. Further investigations are
planned and will result in the selection of a remedy for cleaning up the remaining site
contamination.
Site Repository
Bureau of Land Management, Alaska Resources Library, Anchorage, Alaska
February 1995
NAVAL AIR STATION ADAK
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ALASKAN BA
ENTERPRISES
ALASKA
EPA ID# AKD004904215
EPA REGION 10
Fairbanks North Star County
1 Yz miles south of Fairbanks
Site Description
Alaskan Battery Enterprises manufactured batteries on a 1-acre site approximately located IVi
miles south of Fairbanks. Used batteries were accepted for recycling, and battery parts and acid
were stored in a fenced, unpaved yard and inside a building on the site. Operations began in
1961, with the filling in of marshlands with battery casings. Wash water, spills, and domestic
wastewater generated inside the building were discharged to an on-site septic tank and drain field.
Prior to 1988, used batteries were broken open on site, the acid was reused, and the lead was
shipped out of state. In 1986, the Alaska Department of Transportation, whose right-of-way
completely surrounds the site, found lead and acid in soil on and off the site. The City of
Fairbanks has a population of approximately 22,600. There are 12 schools within 3 miles of the
site. Wetlands covering more than 5 acres are located within l/i mile to the northeast of the
facility.
Site Responsibility:
The site was addressed through Federal
actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The soil was contaminated with lead that had been released from the activities at the
battery yard. There was a potential risk to people from direct contact with or
accidental ingestion of the contaminated soil. The groundwater was not contaminated;
however, there was a potential for the lead from the soil to move into the groundwater
since the groundwater is shallow and the soil is permeable.
January 1 995
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Cleanup Approach
Response Action Status
Early Action: In 1988, EPA excavated soil with lead concentrations exceeding
1,000 parts per million (ppm), and stockpiled it in a lined trench on site. Test pits
were dug to the shallow water table, and water samples were collected for analysis.
A total of 39 gondola rail cars were loaded with 2,900 cubic yards of lead-contaminated soil,
which were disposed of in a federally-approved facility. Areas of high lead content were capped
with a liner and a foot of topsoil. EPA removed the remaining 800 cubic yards of soil in 1989.
Final Action: In 1992, EPA completed an investigation of the nature and the extent
of the contamination. The results of the investigation indicated that there were
several areas of soil which still exceeded the lead cleanup goal but that there are no
elevated levels of lead in the groundwater. In the summer of 1992 an innovative soil washing
technology demonstration was conducted at the site through EPA's SITE Program. This
demonstration treated and removed all remaining lead contamination in the soil above the cleanup
goal. In March 1993, EPA determined that no further action was required.
Site Facts: In September 1992, EPA reached a settlement with 27 small contributor parties
who agreed to pay a portion of EPA's response costs. In November 1992, the U.S. filed a
federal lawsuit against nine defendants to recover the rest of EPA's response costs.
Environmental Progress
All construction at the site has been completed. Excavating contaminated soil and capping parts
of the Alaskan Battery Enterprises site reduced the immediate threat to human health and the
environment. The SITE technology demonstration achieved cleanup goals for the remaining lead
contaminated areas, resulting in EPA's decision to take no further action at this site.
Site Repository
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, 1001 Noble Street, Suite 350,
Fairbanks, AK 99701
January 1995 2 ALASKAN BATTERY
ENTERPRISES
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ARCTIC SUR
ALASKA
EPA ID# AKD980988158
EPA REGION 10
Fairbanks North Star County
Fairbanks
Other Names:
McPeak Salvage
Site Description
The Arctic Surplus site occupies approximately 25 acres and is located 6 miles southeast of
Fairbanks. Salvage operations were conducted at the site, which accepted military equipment and
materials, asbestos insulation, and various oils. In addition, battery cracking and transformer
burning operations were conducted to recover metals. The Department of Defense (DOD) owned
the site from 1944 to 1947. In 1988, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation
conducted a site inspection and detected elevated levels of metals on site. Significant amounts of
bulk asbestos and a number of drums of liquid waste were found on site. A shallow aquifer,
which underlies the Tanana-Chena flood plain, is the primary source of drinking water for
residents living near the site. The 1,000 residents living within a 3-mile radius of the site are
dependent on private domestic wells or bottled water.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/26/89
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater contains trichloroethylene (TCE); however, the source of
groundwater contamination has been removed. On-site soil is contaminated with
industrial solvents, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and lead. People ingesting or
coming into direct contact with contaminated groundwater and soil may suffer adverse
health effects. The Tanana and the Chena Rivers flow approximately 1 mile away
from the site and could become polluted by the contaminants.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: early actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing
on cleanup of the entire site.
January 1995
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Response Action Status
Early Actions: The EPA conducted early actions in three phases during 1989,
1990, and 1991. In 1989, the EPA removed 22,200 pounds of asbestos, fenced the
site, and stabilized 75 gallons of the pesticide chlordane. In 1990, the Defense
Logistics Agency (DLA), under EPA oversight, disposed of the contents of 1,700 drums of liquid
wastes; removed and contained highly contaminated soils; and removed and disposed of
additional asbestos found at the site. In 1991, the EPA located and stabilized areas with high
levels of lead and PCBs; investigated potential burial areas; and conducted sampling. DLA will
monitor off-site wells every six months. The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public
Facilities (ADOT) is currently cleaning up PCBs and lead contaminated soils from a ditch
adjacent to the site.
Entire Site: An investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination at
the site began in late 1992. Based on the results of the investigation, the EPA will
evaluate options for cleaning up the site, and select a remedy. The EPA plans to
complete the investigation in early 1995.
Site Facts: Under Consent Decree, the DLA is conducting investigations at the site. Under a
Consent Order, ADOT is cleaning up an easement of the road adjacent to the site.
Environmental Progress
Removing asbestos, fencing the site, stabilizing pesticides contained on site, and removing highly
contaminated soil have significantly reduced the threat to human health and the environment
posed by the Arctic Surplus site while investigations leading to the selection of final cleanup
remedies are underway.
Site Repository
Defense Reutilization & Marketing Office, Building 5001, 1/4 Mile Badger Road,
Fairbanks, AK 99703
January 1995 2 ARCTIC SURPLUS
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EIELSON AIR
FORCE BASE
ALASKA
EPA ID# AK1570028646
EPA REGION 10
Fairbanks North Star County
Fairbanks North Star Borough
Site Description
The Eielson Air Force Base site covers 19,780 acres in Fairbanks North Star Borough, located
24 miles southeast of Fairbanks. Since its establishment in 1944, its primary mission has been to
provide tactical support to the Alaskan Air Command. The site contains both closed and active
unlined landfills which extend into the ground water, shallow trenches where weathered tank
sludge was buried, a drum storage area, and other disposal or spill areas. Sampling has indicated
numerous contaminants in the groundwater and soil. Several monitoring wells have been
converted into static recovery wells to remove floating petroleum products from area
groundwater, but to date only small quantities have been recovered. Approximately 6,000 people
obtain drinking water from wells within 3 miles of hazardous substances on the base. Surface
water 3 miles downgradient of the base is used for fishing. The base is the flood plain of the
Tanana River.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/14/89
Final Date: 11/21/89
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
Groundwater contains lead and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene,
xylene, and toluene. Several areas of subsurface petroleum-contaminated soil and
floating petroleum product are the sources of continuing groundwater contamination.
Ingesting or coming into direct contact with contaminated groundwater or soil may
pose a potential health threat.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in five long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of three fuel
contamination areas, one group of TCE spills, a group of drum burial sites, a group of landfills,
and the entire site.
January 1995
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Response Action Status
Fuel Contamination: In 1991, the Air Force began investigating the nature and
extent of fuel contamination at the base. In late 1994, the EPA selected bioventing and
soil vapor extraction as the remedy to treat the fuel-contaminated source areas.
TCE Spills: In 1992, the Air Force began an investigation of the TCE spill areas on
the base to determine the type and extent of contamination. The investigation is
scheduled to conclude with recommendations for cleanup in 1995.
Drum Burial Sites: In 1992, the Air Force began an investigation into the nature
and extent of contamination at the drum burial sites. This investigation is scheduled to
conclude with recommendations for final site cleanup, scheduled for 1995.
Landfills: In 1992, the Air Force began an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the landfill areas on the site. The completed study will identify and
recommend final cleanup alternatives for this area, scheduled in 1995.
Entire Site: In 1991, the Air Force began an investigation to determine the nature
and extent of contamination at the entire Eielson Air Force Base. Once remedies
have been selected at all individual areas, the base will be evaluated under this site-
wide investigation to evaluate any cumulative human health and environmental risks. This study
is scheduled for completion in 1996.
Site Facts: Eielson Air Force Base is participating in the Installation Restoration Program, a
specially funded program established by the Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify,
investigate, and control the migration of hazardous contaminants at military and other DOD
facilities. In May 1991, the Air Force and the EPA signed an Interagency Agreement for this
site.
Environmental Progress
Preliminary investigations have determined that the Eielson Air Force Base site does not pose a
threat to human health or the environment while investigations leading to the selection of cleanup
activities continue.
Site Repository
Not established.
January 1 995
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE
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ELMENDORF
FORCE BASE
ALASKA
EPA ID# AK8570028649
EPA REGION 10
Anchorage County
Immediately north of Anchorage
Other Names:
USAF-Elmendorf AFB
Site Description
The Elmendorf Air Force Base (EAFB) site covers approximately 13,130 acres near Anchorage.
More than half of the area at the site is undeveloped, including 1,416 acres of wetlands, lakes
and ponds. The remaining area has been developed for airfield operations, base-support
operations, housing, and recreational facilities. The Air Force has identified 33 parcels of
possible site contamination that have been designated for investigation. These parcels are
grouped into seven areas, including: inactive landfills contaminated with lead, batteries, and
waste solvents; inactive underground storage tanks where fuel leaks and spills have occurred
since the mid-1950s; a shop-waste disposal area and former transformer area, where solvents,
paints, and transformer leaks have contaminated soils with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); ten
source areas consisting of hangers and aircraft maintenance facilities, a drum storage area, and an
inactive fire training area; fuel spill areas; former landfills and surface disposal areas; and
pesticide storage and petroleum areas. The source areas consist of EAFB employs about 7,400
people, 18 percent of whom are civilians. Approximately 8,600 people currently live on the base.
Approximately 121,000 individuals reside within 3 miles of the base. Emergency backup water
supply wells for EAFB are located within 3 miles of the identified contamination. Several
sensitive environments exist within, and adjacent to, the areas of contamination at the base. These
include wetlands, moose habitats, beaver ponds, and Ship Creek, which has several active
fisheries, including salmon.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/14/89
Final Date: 08/30/90
February 1995
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Threats and Contaminants
Soil and shallow groundwater beneath the various landfills, fuel storage facilities,
training areas and maintenance hangars located on base are contaminated with
petroleum hydrocarbons and other fuel contaminants, volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), PCBs, pesticides, asphalt and associated
chemicals, and heavy metals including lead. No contaminants have been detected in
the deeper confined aquifer at this time. Potential health risks include future
contamination of a drinking water source, as well as accidental ingestion of or direct
contact with contaminated groundwater for soil. Local residents obtain their drinking
water from the deeper confined aquifer. Wetlands and moose habitats may be
threatened by site contamination.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in eight stages: interim actions and seven long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleaning up the landfills, underground storage tank area, shop waste disposal and
former transformer storage areas, floor drain spills, fuel spill area, former landfills, and the
former pesticide storage and petroleum areas.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: In 1990, a 338,000 gallon underground storage tank was
excavated, demolished, and removed along with contaminated soils. The soils are
being treated through bioremediation. In early 1991, four one-million gallon
underground storage tanks were taken our of service and drained. An interim remedy was
selected in 1992 to address these tanks, which includes removing the floating product from the
surface of the groundwater and reducing further movement of contaminated groundwater through
containment of seeps. Construction of the collection and treatment facility was completed in
1993. Operation will continue for approximately five years. During the summer of 1993, EAFB
constructed an underground bioventing system to treat soils contaminated with petroleum, oils,
and lubricants. Bioventing pilot tests were conducted in 1993 and 1994. In the fall of 1993,
EAFB constructed a cold-weather, aboveground bioremediation treatment facility as part of a
treatability study for contaminated soils. In 1994, asphalt was removed from approximately 3,800
of the 4,500 drums on the site, and scraped from the walls of the excavation pit. The asphalt was
reclaimed and recycled.
Landfills: In 1994, the Air Force completed an investigation and selected a remedy to
address the nature and extent of contamination at these landfills. The landfills had
received a variety of hazardous wastes, including lead acid batteries and waste
solvents. The selected remedy calls for no further action for the soils and groundwater. Long-
term monitoring of groundwater, however, will continue to ensure that no contamination
develops.
February 1995 2 ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE
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Underground Storage Tank Area: The Air Force has completed an investigation
into the nature and extent of contamination at this area. The area consists of two
underground storage tank locations where fuel leaks and spills have occurred since the
mid-1950s. In late 1994, the Air Force selected a cleanup approach for this area which continues
the removal of contaminants from the groundwater surface as described in the interim actions,
allows for natural attenuation for soil and groundwater contamination, and requires long-term
monitoring. If natural attenuation, whereby contaminants naturally dissipate over time, proves
ineffective, the Air Force will pump and treat fuel-contaminated groundwater.
Shop Waste Disposal and Transformer Storage Areas: In 1994, a study was
completed that explored the nature and extent of contamination at the shop waste
disposal area and at a PCB transformer storage facility. After initial review, the Air
Force has determined that the nature and extent of contamination does not indicate any serious
threats to human health and the environment. A final cleanup decision is expected in early 1995.
Floor Drain Spills: Floor drains are located at 10 maintenance areas. These include
hanger and aircraft facilities, an asphalt drum area, and a fire training area. Solvents,
pesticides and other wastes were disposed of in these floor drains. The asphalt drum
storage area was a former asphalt batch plant where several thousand drums full of asphalt had
been abandoned. Site investigations have been concluded and the Air Force is recommending soil
bioventing for contaminated soils, and natural attenuation for fuel-contaminated groundwater.
Threats to human health and the environment appear to be limited. A public comment period is
scheduled for early 1995, with a final cleanup approach expected to be selected shortly thereafter.
Fuel Spill Areas: A study of the nature and extent of contamination of six sources
north of Ship Creek, where petroleum products from pipelines and aboveground
storage tanks have leaked, is complete. The Air Force recommended removing some
of the contaminated soil and treating it in the biopile at the base, allowing groundwater to
naturally attenuate, and constructing a wetland area to collect and treat seeping petroleum
products. A public meeting to discuss the recommendation was held in 1994, and a final cleanup
decision is expected in early 1995.
Former Landfills: A study of the nature and extent of contamination at this former
landfill area is ongoing. This area consists of three former landfills and three surface
disposal areas. Petroleum, oil, and lubricant sludge, and laboratory wastes were
disposed of in these areas. The study is expected to be completed in 1995 and a final cleanup
remedy will be selected soon after.
Former Pesticide Area: A study of the nature and extent of contamination at this
former pesticide area is ongoing. Once the investigation is completed, effective
measures to cleanup the site will be recommended. The study is expected to be
completed in the spring of 1995.
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE 3 February 1995
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Environmental Progress
The removal of the underground storage tanks, the asphalt reclamation, the soil treatment, and
the continued operation of the groundwater collection and treatment facility have reduced the
threats posed to human health and the environment while final cleanup actions are being planned
at the Elmendorf Air Force Base site.
Site Repository
Bureau of Land Management
Alaska Resource Library
222 West 7th Ave., #36
Federal Building
Anchorage, AK 99513
University of Alaska at Anchorage
Consortium Library
Reserve Desk
3211 Providence Road
Anchorage, AK 99508
February 1995
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE
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FORT RICHARDSON^—^EP.A REGION 10
< ~ , 1 1 Anchoraae Countv
(USARMY)
ALASKA
EPA ID # AK6214522157
Anchorage County
Anchorage
Site Description
Fort Richardson, constructed in 1940, occupies a 61,900 acre area located in the municipality of
Anchorage. The installation is bounded by the City of Anchorage and Elmendorf Air Force
Base, also on the NPL, to the west, and by Eagle Bay and the Knik Arm of Cook Inlet to the
north. The Fort's southern and eastern boundaries consist of Chugash State Park and
undeveloped lands. During World War II, its mission was to defend Alaska against foreign
invaders. Its current mission is to command and control Army forces in Alaska and to provide
the services, facilities, and infrastructure to support and train rapid deployment forces from
Alaska to the Pacific theater. Three sources of contamination were identified by the Army: the
Eagle River Flats (ERF) ordnance impact area, the Poleline Road Disposal Area (PRDA), and
the Roosevelt Road Transmitter Site (RRTS). The ERF ordnance area encompasses 2,500 acres
of wetlands associated with the Eagle River delta. The wetlands are an important habitat for
waterfowl during spring and fall migrations. ERF has served as the primary ordnance impact
area for Fort Richardson since World War II. PRDA consists of a disposal area used to bury
hazardous substances in the 1950s. RRTS consists of a bomb-proof underground bunker and the
remnants of support facilities.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/23/93
Final Date: 05/31/94
Threats and Contaminants
zra
Sediment and surface water samples collected from ERF have revealed elevated levels
of white phosphorous. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and
polychlorinated biphenols (PCBs) have contaminated the soil at the RRTS. VOCs are
present in the soil and shallow ground water at PRDA. People who come into direct
contact with or ingest contaminated sediment, surface water, soil, or groundwater may
be at risk. Wetlands and waterfowl are threatened by site contamination.
Uanuary 1 995
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing
on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
1993.
Initial Actions: Investigations to determine the cause of waterfowl deaths at ERF
concluded that white phosphorous was to blame. Excavation to remove the source of
the TCE contamination found in groundwater at PRDA began in the summer of
Steel containers and pigs were unearthed during the excavation. The pigs may contain a
chemical agent. Following investigations that discovered additional buried objects, excavation
resumed in the summer of 1994. Additional pigs were unearthed, but no chemical agents were
found in the soil.
Entire Site: Preliminary sampling conducted by the EPA has revealed various types
and amounts of contaminants at the site. A pilot study to test the effectiveness of
dredging at ERF is being planned. EPA hopes that dredging will expose the white
phosphorous to air (oxygen), which will allow complete combustion of the white phosphorous,
eliminating the threat to waterfowl. Investigations of the other contaminated site areas are
scheduled to being in the spring of 1995.
Environmental Progress
After performing initial actions and preliminary investigations at the site, the EPA determined
that the public is not at immediate risk while site-wide investigations are being planned.
Site Repository
Not yet established.
January 1995
FORT RICHARDSON
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FORT WAffit
ALASKA N£
EPA ID# AK6210022426
EPA REGION 10
Fairbanks North Star County
Fairbanks North Star Borough
Other Names:
U.S. Army - Fort Wainwright
Site Description
Fort Wainwright, located near Fairbanks, was established in 1947 with the primary mission of
training soldiers and testing equipment in arctic conditions. Industrial operations primarily
involved maintenance of aircraft and vehicles. Fort Wainwright is made up of several areas,
including a 4,473-acre cantonment area, which includes a 74-acre sanitary landfill. The landfill
has received waste oil, waste fuel, spent solvents, perchloroethylene-contaminated dry cleaning
filters, asbestos, paint residues, and fuel tank sludge since the mid-1950s. The landfill is not lined
or bermed and is built up higher than the surrounding land. A second contaminated area is the
45-acre North Post Oxbow and Family Housing Area, located 3,500 feet from the landfill. The
Army used this area for storage of petroleum products, solvents, and other chemicals and for the
disposal of power plant ash and slag containing chromium and mercury. About 11,000 people,
including the entire population of Fort Wainwright, obtain drinking water from wells within 3
miles of the site. The Chena River, which is used for sport fishing, is located less than 3 miles
downstream of the site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/14/89
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
In some areas, on-site groundwater is contaminated with petroleum products, solvents,
and pesticides. Soil contains some heavy metals, solvents, petroleum products,
pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Potential health threats to people
include ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater and soil.
January 1995
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in five long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of Building
2250/Chemical Agent Site/Building 1599/Site N-4, the North Post/DRMO/Building 1168F, the
Fairbanks Fuel Terminal and Railroad Offloading Facility, the Landfill Power Plant/Coal
Storage/Fire Training Pits, and the Open Burning/Open Detonation and New Sources.
Response Action Status
Building 2250/Chemical Agent Site/Building 1599/Site N-4: The U.S. Army
began a study of the base landfill in 1994 that will determine the nature and extent of
groundwater and soil contamination at these areas. The study will define the
contaminants of concern and will recommend alternatives for the final groundwater and soil
cleanup.
North Post/Defense Realization and Mark Office (DRMO)/Building 1168F:
Investigations are underway to make a determination of the nature and extent of
contamination at these areas. The investigation is expected to be completed in early
Fairbanks Fuel Terminal and Railroad Offloading Facility: The U.S. Army is
conducting a study that will determine the nature and extent of contamination at these
areas. The investigation is scheduled for completion in 1995, at which time the
Landfill Power Plant/Coal Storage/Fire Training Pits: The U.S. Army is
conducting a study to determine the nature and extent of contamination at these areas.
The study is scheduled for completion in 1995, at which time the selection of cleanup
alternatives will begin.
Open Burning/Open Detonation and New Sources: The U.S. Army is
expected to begin a study in 1995 to explore the nature and extent of contamination
at the Open Burning/Open Detonation Area and to identify any new sources of
contamination.
Site Facts: Fort Wainwright is participating in the Installation Restoration Program, a specially
funded program established by the Department of Defense (DoD) in 1978 to identify, investigate,
and control the migration of hazardous contaminants at military and other DoD facilities. A
Federal Facilities Agreement was signed by the EPA, the Alaska Department of Environmental
Conservation and the Army in March 1992. This agreement identifies the investigation schedules
for Fort Wainwright.
January 1995 2 FORT WAINWRIGHT
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Environmental Progress
The Army has performed preliminary investigations at all source areas and has determined that
the Fort Wainwright site does not pose an immediate threat to human health or the environment
while investigations leading to the selection of final cleanup activities are underway.
Site Repository
Noel Wien Library, Fairbanks, AK
FORT WAINWRIGHT
January 1995
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STANDARD ST
& METALS SAL
YARD (USDOT)
ALASKA
EPA ID# AKD980978787
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Anchorage County
Anchorage
Other Names:
J-DOT-Standard Steel
The Standard Steel & Metals Salvage Yard site covers approximately 6 acres in a heavily
industrialized area of Anchorage. The Federal Railroad Administration, part of the U.S.
Department of Transportation (DOT), acquired the land in the 1920s. Since 1972, the land has
been leased to several different recyclers whose activities included reclamation of polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs)-contaminated electrical transformers, salvaging of assorted batteries, and
processing of various types of equipment and drums from nearby military bases. In 1982, the
land was leased to Standard Steel & Metals. The site contained transformers, bulk tanks, an
incinerator, a metal crusher, drums and containers, and other items associated with salvage
operations. In 1985, the EPA detected low levels of PCBs in the sediment of nearby Ship Creek.
In 1987, the EPA detected contaminants in on-site groundwater. Between 1987 and 1988, the
EPA removed all transformers and batteries, the incinerator and other hazardous wastes. Over
121,000 people obtain drinking water from wells within 3 miles of the site. Ship Creek is used
for sport fishing and is a salmon migratory stream.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/14/89
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
On-site soils contain PCBs, solvents, lead, dioxins, and furan. On-site groundwater is
contaminated with lead, PCBs, and tetrachloroethylene. People may be exposed to
pollutants through accidental ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated
groundwater and soil.
January 1995
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing
on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: Between 1987 and 1988, the EPA removed surface wastes,
including an estimated 8,500 batteries, 175 transformers, 1,100 drums, three bulk
storage tanks, assorted containers, and metal debris, and transported the materials to
federally regulated disposal facilities. In 1988, the EPA sealed the surface soil in the most highly
contaminated areas, removed the remaining containers of hazardous materials, and strengthened
the security fence. In 1991, under an EPA Administrative Order, the Alaska Railroad
Corporation removed scrap material that restricted access to the site.
Entire Site: An investigation into the nature and extent of contamination at the site
began in 1992. The potentially responsible parties have completed an investigation and
are currently preparing a feasibility study of cleanup alternatives. The study is
expected to be completed in 1995.
Site Facts: In September 1992, the EPA and Chugach Electric, one of the potentially
responsible parties, entered into a Consent Order in which the company agreed to conduct an
investigation of the site.
Environmental Progress
The EPA's initial actions of removing batteries, transformers, drums, tanks, debris, scrap metal,
sealing highly contaminated surface soil, and strengthening the security fence have significantly
reduced the threat of exposure to contaminants while investigations leading to final site cleanup
are underway.
Site Repository
Bureau of Land Management Library, Federal Building, Anchorage, AK.
January 1995 2 STANDARD STEEL & METALS
SALVAGE YARD (USDOT)
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