4>EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Solid Waste And
Emergency Response
(5201 G)
SUPERFUND:
EPA/540/R-95/101
PB95-962933
9200.5-731 C
May 1995
Progress at
National
Priority
List Sites
I ^
NEW MEXICO
1995 UP DATE
V
Printed on Recycled Paper
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How to Use the NPL Book
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O
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
EPA ID# ABCOOOOOOO
Site Description
EPA REGION XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
Other Names:
: xxx xxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx :
: xxxxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxx xxxx xx xxxxxxxxx xx xxxxxx xxxxxxxx 1
; xxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx xx xxxxxx xxxx xxxxx xxxx x xxx :
: xxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxxxx :
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX^lMltXJt XXX XX XXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXX)»«Q^CXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXX XXX XXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXXX XXX XXXXXXjSBWfcJtXX XXXXXX XX XXXX XXX XXXXX XXX XXXXX XXX XXXXX
Site Responsibility: *xxxxx *xx
^^^ 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
Cleanup Approach
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
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 XXXXXX \
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX X :
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 :
Site Facts:
XXXXXX XXX XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxx xxxx xxxxxxxx xxxx xx xxxxxxxxx xx xxxxxx
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX X XXX
^S(XXXXXX XXX XXXXXX
Environmental Progress
xxxxxx xxx xxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxx 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 XX
: 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 Grpundwater 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 Site Name
NMD980622864 AT & SF (ALBUQUERQUE)
NMD0431 58591 AT & SF (CLOVIS)
NMD097960272 CAL WEST METALS (USSBA)
NMD980749378 CIMARRON MINING CORP.
NMD981155930 CLEVELAND MILL
NMD007860935 HOMESTAKE MINING CO.
NMD980750020 LEE ACRES LANDFILL (USDOI)
NMD980749980 PAGANO SALVAGE
NMD980622773 PREWITT ABANDONED REFINERY
NMD085267961 RINCHEM CO., INC.
NMD980745558 SOUTH VALLEY
NMD030443303 UNITED NUCLEAR CORP.
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AT &SF
(ALBUQUERQU
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD980622864
Site Description
EPA REGION 6
Albuquerque
Other names:
AT & SF Tie Treating Plant
The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe (AT & SF) Railway Co. owned and operated a tie treating
plant in a commercial area of the South Valley, a suburb of Albuquerque. From 1908 to 1972,
this wood preserving facility treated various wood products, including railroad ties, bridge
timbers, and fence posts with a solution of creosote and oil. Washdown waters, spills, and
leakage resulting from plant operations were disposed of in an unlined impoundment, slightly less
than 3 1/2 acres in size. The facility, now abandoned, was dismantled in 1972. An irrigation
ditch south of the site receives runoff, which then travels through a series of canals until the
drainage water enters the Rio Grande River 7 miles downstream from the site. No drinking
water intakes are located along the canals or river. Within 4 miles of the site there are 166
drinking water wells: 15 belong to the City of Albuquerque, three belong to the nearby Kirtland
Air Force Base, and 148 are private wells. An estimated 43,500 people are served by these
wells. The canals and rivers are used for recreational purposes and have fisheries stocked by the
State. Also, Federal and State inventories have identified portions of the downstream segment
along the Rio Grande River as wetlands.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible parties'
actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/14/92
Final Date: 12/16/94
Threats and Contaminants
Sludge present in the impoundment contains heavy metals, such as arsenic, barium, and
lead, and various creosote constituents. The soil of a sump adjoining the impoundment
is contaminated with barium, creosotes, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Contaminants detected in on-site monitoring wells include creosotes and various VOCs.
Sampling has suggested that contamination may have migrated from the site to the
surface water; however, further testing is needed to verify this assertion.
August 1995
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
£>. I Entire Site: In late 1993, the potentially responsible parties, under EPA oversight,
^^•v began a full-scale investigation into the nature and extent of site contamination. This
> investigation, expected to be completed in late 1995, will lead to the selection of
remedies for cleanup of the site. EPA and AT & SF are evaluating alternatives for the removal
of the sludges and subsurface soils in the impounded area.
Sites Facts: AT & SF and the EPA signed an Administrative Order on Consent in mid-1994 to
investigate the site.
Environmental Progress
Initial investigations indicate the AT & SF (Albuquerque) site does not pose an immediate threat
to the health and safety of the nearby population while a full-scale investigation is underway.
Site Repository
Albuquerque Public Library, 501 Copper Ave. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
August 1995
AT & SF (ALBUQUERQUE)
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AT&SF
(CLOVIS)
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD0431 58501
EPA REGION 6
Curry County
South of the AT&SF Railway
switching yard in Clovis
Other Names:
Clovis Site
Site Description
The AT&SF (Clovis) site comprises an approximately 26-acre area. For nearly 90 years, Santa
Fe Lake, sometimes referred to as Playa Lake, has received the wastewater discharge from the
Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe (AT&SF) railway operations. The type of wastes changed over
the years, but in the mid-1950s, AT&SF began washing hopper cars at its nearby switching and
repair yard. Cars hauling potash, cement, fertilizer, grain, and coke were cleaned, and the
wastewater was piped to the lake. On-site industrial water wells were shut down due to
contamination in the mid-1970s. The hopper car washing facility was closed in 1982. The area
surrounding the site is rural, but 31,000 people within 3 miles. The lake is currently fenced off
from public access. The closest residences are 2,000 feet away, and the nearest drinking water
well is 1,200 feet from the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/23/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
The sediments and surface water in Santa Fe Lake are contaminated with boron,
chloride, fluoride, and petroleum hydrocarbons. Contaminants found in on-site soil
include petroleum hydrocarbons and phenols. The aquifer that extends under the lake
is the source of drinking water for the town of Clovis. Although contamination of the
groundwater has not occurred, migration of contaminants from the lake is possible if
the source of contamination is not removed. Possible threats include eating, drinking,
coming in direct contact with, or inhaling the contaminated materials. The site is
currently fenced to prevent public access.
August 1995
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1988, the EPA selected remedies for the site which include building a
dike and ditch system to prevent rain water from running onto the site; evaporating
lake waters; excavating sediments and treating them on site with biodegradation;
covering the treated area with a plastic liner and vegetated soil cap to prevent any remaining
contaminants from migrating; and treating underlying soils with bioremediation. All sediments
and soils that fail to meet the cleanup criteria will be taken to an on-site storage facility and
capped. Results of continuous groundwater monitoring have indicated that contamination from the
site has not occurred. A fence has been installed surrounding the site. Construction of the
selected cleanup remedy is now underway. The potentially responsible parties are taking the lead
on all site investigations and cleanup activities, under oversight by the EPA. Cleanup will
effectively treat 125,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil, sediment, and water. The dike and
ditch system construction was completed in 1990 and most of the lake water has been evaporated.
Biodegradation of the sediments and soils began in mid-1992.
Site Facts: The EPA filed an Administrative Order in 1983 with the site owners to conduct
necessary studies and cleanup.
Environmental Progress
Construction of a dike and ditch system at the AT & SF (Clovis) site to prevent migration of
contaminants from the site and installation of a fence has reduced the potential of contact with
contaminants while soil and sediment cleanup continues at the site.
Site Repository
Clovis-Carver Public Library, Fourth & Mitchell Streets, Clovis, NM 88108
August 1995 2 AT&SF (CLOVIS)
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CIMARRON MINI
CORP.
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD98074937
EPA REGION 6
Lincoln County
Carrizozo
Site Description
From 1979 to 1982, the Cimarron Mining Corp. site operated as a metal recovery mill using a
solution of cyanide salt and metal stripper. The site covers approximately 10 acres. Before 1979,
gold was extracted, using cyanide. Both processes generated a liquid waste containing cyanide
and heavy metals. The facility was operated without the required permits, and the State cited the
company for environmental violations in 1982. Cimarron Mining filed for bankruptcy in 1983,
and the following year an inspection revealed two cyanide solution tanks, a discharge pit, an
impoundment, an uncovered pile of mine tailings, and a drum storage area. In 1990, the Sierra
Blanca property, located approximately 3/4 mile south of the Cimarron Mining Corp. site, was
incorporated into cleanup actions at the Cimarron Mining Corp. site. Covering approximately 7
acres, it operated as a precious metals recovery mill using a flotation process. The process
resulted in a lead-contaminated slurry, which was disposed of in open pits. Approximately 1,000
people obtain drinking water from 29 municipal wells within 3 miles of the site. The nearest
municipal well is about 2 miles away from the Cimarron Mining Corp. area and 1/2 mile from
the Sierra Blanca mill area. Wells also are used to irrigate food crops.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater at Cimarron Mining Corp. contains elevated levels of cyanide. The
sediments and soil at the Sierra Blanca Mill area were found to contain lead. The
levels of cyanide on the site potentially were toxic to people, and direct contact with
or accidental ingestion of wastes and contaminated soils posed a health risk prior to
cleanup. The deeper aquifer used for drinking water could have become contaminated
if treatment of the groundwater had not occurred. There was an exposure potential
from breathing airborne dust. Several process tanks and soil and sediments in the
discharge pits associated with the Sierra Blanca Site contained lead and arsenic. The
site is fenced. A public recreation area is located 300 yards to the north.
July 1995
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Cleanup Approach
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1987, the EPA fenced the site and posted warning signs to
alert the nearby community of contaminated site conditions. In 1991 and 1992, the
EPA decontaminated equipment and contained high-hazard material in mixing vats,
tanks, and troughs. The contained waste was consolidated and staged,.over packed, then disposed
of at an off-site facility.
Cimarron Mining Corp. Mill Area: In 1990, the EPA completed an investigation
into the nature and extent of contamination at the metal recovery site. This study
defined the contamination and recommended various cleanup alternatives. The selected
remedy involves extracting shallow groundwater, with discharge to a local waste water treatment
facility. Engineering designs and the construction of the groundwater pumping system were
completed in early 1992, and operation began in mid-1992. Groundwater treatment will continue
until established cleanup goals are met.
Sierra Blanca Mill Area: An investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the Sierra Blanca property was completed in 1991. Final cleanup
remedies were selected in 1991 and called for consolidation, solidification, and on-site
disposal of lead contaminated soils. In late 1991, construction of this remedy was completed.
Two additional monitoring wells were installed, and cleanup was completed in 1992.
Site Facts: In mid-1982, the New Mexico Environment Department sent a Notice of Violation
letter to Cimarron Mining Corp. for a non-permitted discharge. The company filed for
bankruptcy in mid-1993.
Environmental Progress
Constructing a fence to limit access, extracting and treating groundwater, and cleaning up
contaminated soils and equipment have reduced the threats to the public and the environment at
the Cimarron Mining Corp. site while groundwater treatment continues.
Site Repository
Carrizozo City Hall, 100 Fifth Street, Carrizozo, NM 88301
July 1995 2 CIMARRON MINING CORP.
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CAL WEST
METALS
(USSBA)
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD09796027
EPA REGION 6
Socorro County
1/2 mile north of Lemitar
Site Description
Cal West Metals (USSBA) is situated on 13 acres of a 44-acre site and served as a lead-recovery
facility. From 1979 to 1981, approximately 20,000 auto batteries were stripped of lead. From
1982 to 1984, Cal West Metals conducted research and development on various aspects of raw
materials recovery. In 1985, the company reworked the waste piles from battery recycling to
recover lead. The owners abandoned the site when the recovery process ceased to be profitable.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) foreclosed on and took ownership of the site in
October 1985. Piles of battery pieces and an evaporation pond remain on site. The State detected
lead in on-site monitoring wells and in the sediment in drainage pathways from the site. In 1986,
the metal was found on surface soils 400 feet downwind from the site. Approximately 1,000
people get drinking water from public and private wells within a 3-mile radius. Six hundred acres
of food and forage crops are irrigated with surface water within 3 miles downstream of the site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Lead from the battery recovery operation has been found in groundwater and site
sediments. Elevated levels of lead also are found in soils. Individuals coming in direct
contact with, or accidentally ingesting contaminated groundwater, soils, or sediments
may be at risk.
August 1995
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase that is directed at cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1992, the EPA selected a remedy to address lead contamination found
in the soil and groundwater. The remedy includes ground water monitoring, excavation
and stabilization/solidification of approximately 45,000 cubic yards of soils and
sediments, and on-site disposal of treated material. Design of the remedy was completed in the
fall of 1993, at which time cleanup activities began.
Site Facts: Beginning in 1987, the EPA sought to have the site properly closed under the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). In May 1990, the EPA sent Special Notice
Letters to the SBA and other potentially responsible parties. In July 1990, the EPA negotiated a
Federal Facilities Agreement with the SBA.
Environmental Progress
Following listing of the Cal West Metals (USSBA) site on the NPL, the EPA assessed the site
conditions and determined that it presently poses no immediate threat to public health or the
environment while cleanup activities are underway.
Site Repository
Los Lunas Public Library
August 1995
CAL WEST METALS SITE (USSBA)
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CLEVELAND
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD9811559
EPA REGION 6
Grant County
5 miles northeast of Silver City
Site Description
The abandoned 10-acre Cleveland Mill site was used as a lead, zinc, and copper mine and mill.
The site has a long history of mining activity, going back to 1910. Between 1915 and 1945, the
mill processed approximately 134,000 tons of ore. Tailings were piped from the mill to the
steeply sloping side of a small valley and were left uncovered, unstabilized, and unlined. The site
was abandoned in the 1950s. Approximately 1,200 area residents draw drinking water from
private wells located within 3 miles of the site. A site investigation revealed that runoff from the
facility has acidified Little Walnut Creek and has contaminated it with metals. The creek and
downstream waters are used for recreation.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater, soil, and surface water of Little Walnut Creek are contaminated
with heavy metals including lead, silver, zinc, copper, manganese, and arsenic. An
estimated 30,000 cubic yards of tailings and polluted surface water are in areas that
recharge the shallow aquifer. Water moves downward from the coarse, permeable
shallow aquifer toward the bedrock aquifer. There is a possibility that drinking water
might become tainted from the groundwater contamination. Direct contact with the
unrestricted tailings piles and contact with surface waters could present a threat to
human health.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on contamination at the entire
site.
July 1995
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Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1993, the EPA completed an investigation into the nature and extent
of contamination at the site and selected a final cleanup remedy. The remedy entails
off-site recycling and disposal of contaminated materials.
Site Facts: A 1987 search for potentially responsible parties identified eight businesses and four
individuals. Special Notice Letters were sent to these parties in December 1989. A community
working group was established in late 1994.
Environmental Progress
The EPA has selected a remedy for addressing the threats to the public and the environment at
the Cleveland Mills site.
Site Repository
Silver City Public Library, Silver City, New Mexico
July 1995
CLEVELAND MILL
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HOMESTAKE
COMPANY
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD007860935
EPA REGION 6
Cibola County
Route 53 north of Milan and Grants
! Other Names:
d Nuclear Homestake Partners
UNC/Homestake
Site Description
The Homestake Mining Company site, 5 1/2 miles north of the Village of Milan, is a uranium
mill that has been operational since 1958. More than 22 million tons of mine tailings have been
piled over 245 acres of ground. Groundwater contamination was noted as early as 1969.
Although there are private wells in the area of the site, they have not been used since the
company installed alternate water supplies in 1985. Public wells have not been found to be
contaminated. Approximately 200 people live within a mile of the tailings piles. The nearest
home and private drinking wells are 3,000 feet from the edge of the nearest tailings pile. Seepage
from the site's tailings piles has polluted a shallow aquifer and parts of the Upper Chinle aquifer
that provided water to four subdivisions 1/2 to 2 miles away.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
IA
Alkaline mill tailings on site are emitting radon gas. Wind-blown particulates
containing lead, radium, and uranium are transported via the air. Radium has entered
surface water from these mill tailings. These tailings also seep sulfate, sodium,
molybdenum, selenium, and uranium into the ground water. The shallow aquifer has
been contaminated, but this threat has been circumvented by a new water supply to the
area's residents. Studies of elevated radon levels in homes near the mill found that the
gas is coming from nearby soils rather than from the site itself. Off-site soil
contamination has been consolidated on site and will continue to be cleaned up should
wind dispersion of tailings occur. Inhalation or accidental consumption of
contaminated dust is a potential threat, as is eating food contaminated by radioactive
dust.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleanup of radon and mine tailings.
August 1995
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Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1985, Homestake Mining Company arranged to have the Milan
water system extended to residents of the four subdivisions near the mill, paying
hookup and water charges for 10 years. The company is collecting contaminated
water from the shallow and the Upper Chinle aquifers and is injecting water from the deeper
aquifer in an effort to flush and improve the water quality of contaminated zones. This effort has
been largely successful, driving back 3/4 of a mile of the contaminant plume and removing over
2 trillion gallons of contaminated water. The EPA and Homestake Mining Company helped
affected homeowners to measure radon levels in their homes and in ambient outdoor air and to
identify methods for reducing the indoor levels. The efforts have been largely successful in
flushing previously contaminated off-site zones, and seepage has been contained on site.
Radon: Evaluation of the completed site investigation revealed that the mill and its
tailings do not significantly contribute to radon levels in the subdivisions. In 1989, the
EPA has concluded that local soils are the principal source of radon and that no
further action is required at the site. Homestake Mining Company conducted off-site monitoring
and concluded that radon levels are below regulatory concern.
Mine Tailings: The tailings piles will be dewatered as part of the corrective action
program to delineate the extent of windblown tailings off site. Radiological survey
data identified affected areas that subsequently were cleaned up to regulatory levels as
part of a land cleanup program. Contamination is now confined to the site. Efforts to stabilize
and dewater the tailings have begun, under NRC and State of New Mexico guidance. Monitoring
of air emissions from the site indicates that particulate radiation levels are within New Mexico
State guidelines.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree was signed in 1983 and an Administrative Order was signed by
Homestake Mining Company in 1987 to perform cleanup activities at the site. Homestake Mining
Company is updating residents on progress and conditions at the site. The EPA is attempting to
sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the NRC for cleanup of the site. The site will remain
on the NPL until cleanup is completed.
Environmental Progress
The initial actions have provided a safe drinking water supply while efforts to stabilize mill
tailings at the Homestake Mining Company site are underway.
Site Repository
New Mexico State University, Grants Library, 1500 Third Street, Grants, NM 87020
August 1995 2 HOMESTAKE MINING COMPANY
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LEE ACRES LANDFILL
(USDOI)
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD98075002
EPA REGION 6
San Juan County
41/2 miles Southeast of Farmington
Site Description
The Lee Acres Landfill, a Federal facility site, covers 60 acres of public land in San Juan
County. In 1962, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) leased 20 acres to San Juan County to
operate a county landfill. The lease was renewed in 1981, with another 40 acres added to the
County's lease. The landfill consists of an undetermined number of solid waste trenches and four
unlined waste lagoons, including water produced from oil and gas field operations, waste oil,
spent acids, chlorinated organic solvents, and septage. The Lee Acres residential subdivision and
the Giant Refinery are located nearby. Approximately 600 residents used shallow alluvial
groundwater within 3 miles of the site, but now use bottled water. During a rain storm in 1985, a
dike broke on one of the lagoons, resulting in wastes entering an arroyo that feeds the San Juan
River, a recreational area near the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and County actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and solid waste sludge are contaminated with manganese and volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) including dichloroethane and benzene. Contaminants were
found in a residential well, presenting the potential of exposure to nearby residents
who obtain their water from the shallow groundwater.
July 1995
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
concentrating on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1985, toxic vapors caused 15 people to get sick and the
Governor called the National Guard to secure the site perimeter while the BLM
ordered the County to fill in the lagoons and fence the site. The New Mexico
Environmental Improvements Division (NMEID) hired a contractor to treat the lagoon contents
with ferric chloride to prevent further release of gases. The County subsequently filled in the four
lagoons. An alternative water supply was found in 1986, and hookups were completed in 1987. A
total of 31 groundwater monitoring wells and piezometers were installed around the landfill by
BLM contractors in 1987; five additional wells were installed in 1989.
Entire Site: The BLM began an investigation into the nature and extent of the
contamination and possible cleanup alternatives in 1992, which is expected to be
completed in 1996. At that time, final site remedies will be selected.
Site Facts: In mid-1991, the EPA issued General Notice Letters to Giant Refinery and San Juan
County. In late 1993, an additional 371 General Notice Letters were distributed. A Technical
Memorandum of Understanding between EPA, the State, and BLM was signed in the Spring of
1994.
Environmental Progress
Fencing of the site and treatment of the lagoons, as well as the other activities on the Lee Acres
Landfill (USDOI) site, have reduced the potential for exposure to contaminants while the site
awaits further cleanup activities.
Site Repository
Farmington Public Library, 100 West Broadway Street, Farmington, NM 87401
July 1995 2 LEE ACRES LANDFILL (USDOI)
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PAGANO
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD980749
Site Description
EPA REGION 6
Valencia County
1 mile southeast of Los Lunas
Other Names:
Waste Electric Transformer #4
The 1 1/4-acre Pagano Salvage site housed a metal salvage facility. In 1983, the operators bought
electric transformers and capacitors containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) oils from a U.S.
Department of Energy facility in Albuquerque. They then removed the oil, poured it over
insulated wire, and burned off the insulation to recover the wire. Burning occurred on
unprotected ground at several locations. Soil sampling in 1985 and 1987 showed PCB and
pesticide contamination to a depth of 4 feet. PCBs were still detected in soils in 1988, as well as
in nearby Otero Drain and in some fish tissue. There is a fence around three sides of the site. An
irrigation ditch runs along the rear of the site. About 11,000 people obtain drinking water from
public and private wells within 3 miles of the site. Surface water near the site is used to irrigate
croplands.
Site Responsibility:
This site was addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Deletion Date: 10/14/92
Threats and Contaminants
The soil contained high concentrations of PCBs and pesticides including DDT and
DDE. Groundwater at the site is shallow (about 5 feet), and the soil consists of very
permeable alluvial deposits. These conditions could have facilitated movement of
contaminants into ground water, thereby posing a potential for contamination of the
drinking water supply. However, monitoring of the groundwater has shown no
contamination since the source was removed. Additionally, crops and locally raised
foodstuffs could have been vulnerable to contamination if they had been irrigated with
contaminated water.
July 1995
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Cleanup Approach
Response Action Status
Emergency Actions: In response to immediate threats to the nearby public, the
EPA excavated approximately 5,100 cubic yards of contaminated soil and debris in
1989 and moved it to an approved facility.
Entire Site: An investigation of the remaining portions of the site was conducted in
1990 to determine the extent and nature of site contamination and to identify
technologies for cleanup. This investigation revealed that the earlier emergency
actions had removed all contamination at the site and that no further action was required. At the
request of the State of New Mexico, the EPA sampled the site monitoring wells periodically to
assure that no groundwater contamination had occurred. Results from the sampling revealed no
contamination of the groundwater.
Environmental Progress
Construction of all cleanup remedies is complete. With the emergency removal of contaminated
soils and debris, the EPA eliminated the sources of contamination and the potential for exposure
to hazardous materials on the Pagan Salvage site. Based on site investigation results, the EPA
concluded that no further cleanup actions are required at the site, which was confirmed by
periodic monitoring of the groundwater. The site was deleted from the NPL in late 1992.
Site Repository
Los Lunas Public Library, 460 Main Street, Los Lunas, NM 87031
July 1995
PAGANO SALVAGE
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PREWITT ABANDONED
REFINERY
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD98062277
Site Description
REGION 6
McKinley County
West of Prewitt on U.S. Hwy. 65
Other Names:
Petroleum Products Refinery
Prewitt Tar Pits
The Prewitt Abandoned Refinery site, situated on 75 acres, was run by several different operators
from the early 1940s to 1965. The Navajo Indian Tribe has owned the property since 1966. The
site consists of two tracts: Tract A (68 acres) lies south of Highway 66 and bears the ruins of the
refinery, waste pits, tank bases, and rubble from removed equipment. Tract B (7 acres) lies north
of Highway 66 and includes two major spill areas and the remains of a pump lift station. In
1982, the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Division detected benzene in a nearby
private well and, in 1986, detected benzene and xylenes in an on-site well to a depth of 17 feet.
Approximately 75 people live within 1 mile of the site. About 1,600 people draw from the
public and private wells within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with lead and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
including benzene, xylene and toluene. About 80 cubic yards of sludge are contained
in the seperator. Soils are contaminated with asbestos, lead, and poly nuclear aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs). Approximately 15 cubic yards of asbestos were found on site.
Possible hazards include direct contact with or ingestion of contaminated groundwater,
sludges, and soils. Contamination of residential wells adjacent to the site has been
recorded. One well has been closed, and a second has become contaminated.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
August 1995
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1989, under agreements with the EPA, the potentially
responsible parties built a security fence and began treating well water to remove
contamination, protecting nearby residents from contaminants. In 1990, an alternate
water supply was provided to residents, and a carbon filtration system was installed.
Entire Site: In 1992, the potentially responsible parties completed an extensive
investigation into the nature and extent of the contamination. The EPA selected the
final cleanup remedies for the site in late 1992. The remedies include: pumping and
treating groundwater; treating soil by vapor extraction; addressing sludges through
bioremediation; and performing excavation and off-site disposal of asbestos containing materials,
lead contaminated soil, and separator contents. Design of the selected remedies began in early
1993. Cleanup is expected to begin in 1995.
Site Facts: In 1989, an Administrative Order was issued to parties potentially responsible for
the site contamination to fence the site and to treat contaminated water wells. Also, in 1989, an
Administrative Order was signed with potentially responsible parties to conduct an investigation
to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify alternatives for cleanup.
Environmental Progress
By fencing the site, treating the contaminated well water, and providing an alternate water
supply, the nearby residents are being protected from contaminants, making the Prewitt
Abandoned Refinery site safer while design of final cleanup remedies is underway.
Site Repository
Prewitt Fire House, Highway 66, Prewitt, NM 87045
August 1995 2 PREWITT ABANDONED REFINERY
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RINCHEM CO.,
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD085267961
Site Description
EPA REGION 6
Bernalillo
Albuquerque
Rinchem Co., Inc., formerly located on a 1/2 acre site in Albuquerque, distributed industrial
solvents and resins from 1979 to 1983. The company also transported hazardous wastes from
waste generators' locations to its facility, repackaged the wastes, and then transported the wastes
back to the generators or a disposal facility. In some instances, wastes were stored on site in
drums until larger quantities were accumulated. The facility also used two 5,000-gallon above-
ground storage tanks to contain any wastes spilled while drums were being loaded and unloaded.
Rinchem moved its operations to another location in late 1983. In 1984, 400 drums containing
various organic chemicals and 400 empty drums were still present at the site; the storage tanks,
however, had been removed. The site is currently occupied by Janco Sheet Metal Co., which
reportedly does not handle hazardous materials in its operations. Municipal wells and 17 private
wells within 4 miles of the site serve an estimated 440,000 people; the closest private well is
within 1/5 mile of the site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/14/92
Threats and Contaminants
Soil around the tank area and a natural collection basin are contaminated with various
volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs also were detected in on-site monitoring
wells. People who touch or ingest contaminated soil or groundwater could be at risk.
August 1995
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Rural Areas Water System: The EPA is scheduling a full-scale investigation into
the nature and extent of site contamination. This investigation will lead to the selection
of remedies for cleanup of the site.
Environmental Progress
Preliminary investigations indicate the Rinchem Co., Inc. site poses no immediate threat to the
health and safety of the nearby population and environment while a full-scale investigation is
being planned.
Site Repository
Albuquerque Public Library, 501 Copper Avenue, NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102
August 1995
RINCHEM CO., INC.
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SOUTH VALL
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD9807455&8
EPA REGION 6
Bernalillo County
Albuquerque
Other Names:
South Valley PCB Tank Site
Site Description
The South Valley site encompasses approximately 1 square mile, with a number of industrial
properties owned and operated by different organizations forming the site. Industrial development
in South Valley began in the 1950s, including metal parts manufacturing. In 1951, the Atomic
Energy Commission conducted machining of metal parts, plating, and welding on the western
portion of the site. By the 1960s, organic chemicals were being handled in the area. In 1967, the
Air Force took over the property and converted the plant into an aircraft engine manufacturing
plant operated by General Electric. General Electric then bought the plant in 1983, and currently
produces aircraft engine parts. The Whitfield property was in operation until 1986, as a delivery
truck base for shipping bulk jet fuel, diesel fuel, asphalt, caustic soda, nitric acid, and sulfuric
acid products. The Edmunds Street property, located in the southeastern corner of the site, was
the location of several chemical and solvent distribution operations. Presently, petroleum fuels
and various other organic chemicals are stored and handled within the area. The main activity on
the Duke City property is the repackaging of petroleum and related automotive products,
including antifreeze, diesel fuel, gasoline, and methanol. Two municipal water wells, SJ-3 and
SJ-6, were shut down in 1981 due to the continual detection of low levels of organic solvents.
South Valley has been designated as the State's highest priority site for cleanup due to the
presence of potentially high concentrations of hazardous substances in the groundwater near the
City of San Jose's well field. Several aquifers underlie the site. Approximately 70,000 people in
Albuquerque are served by the San Jose reservoir system. A residential district of 590 people lies
just to the north of the General Electric facility.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/23/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and soil are contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
including toluene and xylenes. The groundwater, which is contaminated with up to 47
compounds, has migrated into Albuquerque's sole source aquifer. Twenty-two off-site
wells have shown contamination. All these wells are now closed. Because of the
gardens and livestock nearby, the food chain is at risk. Groundwater on site is not
currently in use. Direct contact with contaminants and inhalation of vapors also are
threats to on-site workers. Workers at Chevron USA, Texaco, Whitfield, and Duke
City are most susceptible to the contamination, because these sites have the greatest
surface soil contamination.
July 1995
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in five stages: initial actions and four long-term remedial phases
focusing on ground water treatment near municipal well SJ-6, ground water treatment at the
Edmunds Street Groundwater, cleanup of Edmunds Street Sources, and cleanup of contaminants
at the General Electric property.
Response Action Status
Initial Action: In 1984, the EPA removed 3,450 gallons of contaminated oil and
63,580 pounds of contaminated soil and debris, along with a 48,140-pound tanker.
All materials were disposed of off site. The excavated areas were then backfilled and
graded. A new well was installed by the EPA in 1988 to replace the capacity of the contaminated
SJ-6 and SJ-3 municipal wells.
Groundwater: To address the groundwater contamination in the vicinity of the
tainted wells, the EPA has given the potentially responsible parties the responsibility
of removing and disposing of 100 yards of contaminated sediments located at the base
of the wells' boreholes, sealing abandoned wells, monitoring the groundwater, and putting up
restrictions to site access. To date, 22 wells have been plugged that could be a conduit for
contamination to reach the deep aquifer. All actions are underway and are scheduled to be
completed in late 1995. Cleanup at adjacent areas of the site, as well as these source control
measures, will reduce the plume concentrations to below State health criteria within 5 years.
Federal health standards have already been attained.
Edmunds Street Groundwater: The parties responsible for this area of
contamination are pumping and treating the groundwater by air stripping. The treated
water is being injected into the aquifer via an infiltration gallery. Groundwater and air
monitoring also is underway.
Edmunds Street Sources: Based on studies by the parties potentially responsible
for sources of contamination at the Edmunds Street property, the EPA determined in
1989 that no further cleanup actions were required to address these sources of site
contamination. The initial actions performed at the site have removed the contamination sources.
General Electric Property: Four hazardous waste storage areas and contaminated
groundwater around the General Electric property are being addressed by the
potentially responsible parties. The remedies selected include installing soil vapor
extraction wells and extracting contaminants from the soil with vacuum pressure, and pumping
and treating shallow groundwater. Extracted groundwater is being treated by air stripping
followed by carbon adsorption and reinjection of treated water into the aquifers. The shallow
groundwater pump and treat system has been operational since May 1994. The initial design of
the deep aquifer remedy is expected to be completed in late 1995. Treatment of the deep
groundwater is expected to take several years. The soil vapor extraction system is scheduled to be
completed in 1997.
July 1995 2 SOUTH VALLEY
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Site Facts: Groundwater was first suspected to be contaminated in 1978, when peculiar tastes
and odors were noted by users of a private well on the Edmunds Street property. Investigations
into the General Electric property were conducted from 1984 to 1988 by the Air Force under a
Memorandum of Understanding with the EPA. In 1989, a Unilateral Administrative Order was
issued to General Electric.
Environmental Progress
Through the immediate removal of contaminated oil, soil, and debris, the installation of a new
well, and the ongoing treatment of contaminated shallow groundwater, the EPA has reduced
possible hazardous exposures at the South Valley site while extraction and treatment of the deep
groundwater and the soil vapor extraction system are being planned.
Site Repository
Albuquerque Public Library, 501 Copper Avenue, Northwest, Albuquerque, NM 87102
SOUTH VALLEY
July 1995
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UNITED NUCLEAR
CORPORATION
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD03044330
Site Description
EPA REGION 6
McKinley County
Church Rock,
1 7 miles northeast of Gallup
Other Names:
UNC Mining and Milling
Church Rock Mill
Mining began in this area in 1968. The United Nuclear Corporation site operated as a
State-licensed uranium mill from 1977 to 1982. It includes a 25-acre ore-processing mill and a
100-acre unlined mine tailings pond area. Approximately 4 3/4 million cubic yards of tailings
were pumped to disposal ponds by 1982. In 1979, a dam breach released about 93 million
gallons of tailings and pond water to Pipeline Canyon Arroyo and the Rio Puerco. While the site
damage was repaired, attention was focused on groundwater contamination resulting from tailings
seepage and wastewater discharge. Three aquifers are contaminated; the alluvial, the Upper
Gallup Zone 3, and the Upper Gallup Zone 1. The mill ceased operations in 1982. In 1986, the
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) took over licensing authority for the site. The
surrounding area is sparsely populated, with the nearest residence located 11/2 miles from the
site. A Navajo Indian Reservation lies 1/2 mile to the north of the site. Four drinking water
wells are within a 4-mile radius, the nearest being 2 miles northeast of the site; however, nearby
residents generally have used bottled water for drinking, since the well water had a bad taste.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
'-NT-NO
The groundwater, soil, and surface water are contaminated with sulfate, radium,
thorium, aluminum, ammonia, and iron from mining wastes. Possible health threats
include accidental ingestion of, inhalation of, or direct contact with the contaminants.
The Upper Gallup aquifer is contaminated by seepage from the tailings ponds.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
July 1995
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The potentially responsible parties repaired the dam breach
that dumped 23 million gallons of tailings and pond water into the Rio Puerco in
1979. The parties also constructed a groundwater pumping system that withdrew
groundwater from the aquifers underlying the site and sent it to an on-site borrow pit for
evaporation. Also, they conducted tailings neutralization from 1979 to 1982. A pond evaporation
system was installed in 1989, as well as a cluster of pumping wells, to augment the groundwater
treatment system.
Entire Site: In 1988, the EPA completed an investigation of site contaminants and
potential cleanup strategies. The selected remedies include: monitoring the
contamination at and beyond the border of the tailings disposal area; operating an
existing seepage extraction systems in the Upper Gallup aquifers; performing containment and
removal of contaminated groundwater in the alluvial and Upper Gallup sandstone; evaporating the
groundwater removed from aquifers outside the disposal area; and performing an evaluation
program to determine water level and contaminant reductions in each aquifer and the extent and
duration of pumping actually required outside the tailings disposal area. The EPA and the NRC
are managing separate phases of the site's cleanup. Both are managing cleanup of groundwater
outside the disposal area. In 1991, the NRC disassembled the mill, disposed of the debris in
Borrow Pit #2, and covered the pit with 3 to 4 feet of fill. The area where the mill was
disassembled was regraded and an interim soil cover was placed over it. The NRC is also
responsible for the removal of contaminated groundwater and reclamation of the mill site. The
potentially responsible parties are performing the work under Federal supervision. Cleanup
activities are scheduled for completion in late 1995.
Site Facts: In 1988, EPA and the NRC signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining
Agency roles and responsibilities in cleaning up the site. In 1989, the EPA issued an
Administrative Order to the potentially responsible parties, requiring them to perform
groundwater cleanup activities.
Environmental Progress
The initial actions performed at the United Nuclear Corporation site have stabilized the mine
tailings and have protected the Rio Puerco from further contamination spills. Groundwater
treatment is underway, reducing contamination levels while further cleanup activities are being
completed.
Site Repository
v
Gallup Public Library, 115 West Hill Avenue, Gallup, NM 87301
July 1995 2 UNITED NUCLEAR CORPORATION
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