United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Region 5
77 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, Illinois 60604
EPA905-R-94-018
May 1994
$EPA
Superfund: Progress at
National Priority List Sites
Wisconsin 1994 Update
-------
May 1994
NATIONAL PRIORITIES LIST SITES:
WISCONSIN
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
7R7e^nf5-Library {PL. 12J)
//West Jackson Boulevard 12th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604-3590
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
OFFICE OF SUPERFUND
WASTE MANAGMENT DIVISION
REGION 5
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60604
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
tA Brief Overview of Superfund
^ Streamlining Superfund: The Superfund Accelerated Cleanup Model
/) How Superfund Works
THE VOLUME
How to use the State Book
A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
THE NPL FACT SHEETS
THE GLOSSARY
Terms used in the NPL Book
-------
INTRODUCTION
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF SUPERFUND
Dunne the second half of the Twentieth
Century, the environmental conse-
quences of more than IUO years of industrial-
ization in the United States became increas-
ingly clear. Authors such as Rachel Carson
wrote passionately about the often-hidden en-
vironmental effects of our modern society's
widespread use of chemicals and other haz-
ardous materials. Their audience was small at
first, but gradually their message .spread.
Growing concern turned to action, a.s people
learned more about the environment ana be-
ijan to act on their knowledge
The 1970s saw environmental issues burst
onto the national scene and take hold in the
national consciousness. The first Earth Day
was observed in 1970, the year that the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was
founded. By the end of the 1970s, Love Canal
in New York and the Valley of the Drums in
Kentucky had entered the popular lexicon as
synonyms for pollution and environmental
degradation.
Superfund Is Established
The industrialization that gave Americans the
world's highest standard of living also created
problems that only a national program could
address. By 1980, the U.S. Congress had
passed numerous environmental laws, imple-
mented by the EPA, but many serious hazard-
ous waste problems were slipping through the
cracks.
Responding to growing concern about public
health and environmental threats from uncon-
trolled releases of hazardous materials, the
U.S. Congress passed the Comprehensive En-
vironmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA). Popularly known as
Superfund, CERCLA had one seemingly
simple job—to uncover and clean up hazard-
ous materials spills and contaminated sites.
A Big Job
Few in Congress, the EPA. the environmen-
tal community, or the general public knew in
19X0 just how big the nation's hazardous ma-
terials problem is. Almost everyone thought
that Superfund would be a short-lived pro-
gram requiring relatively few resources to
clean up at most a few hundred sites. They
were quite mistaken.
As the EPA set to work finding sites and
gauging their potential to harm people and
the environment, the number of sites grew.
Each discovery seemed to lead to another.
and today almost 36,000 hazardous waste
sites have been investigated as potential haz-
ardous waste sites. They are catalogued in
the EPA's computerized database, CERCLIS
i for the Comprehensive Environmental Re-
-------
INTRODUCTION
sponse, Compensation, and Liability
Information System).
The damage to public health and the
environment that each site in
CERCLIS might cause is evaluated;
many sites have been referred to
State and local governments for
cleanup. The EPA lists the
nation's most serious hazardous
waste sites on the National
Priorities List, or NPL. (These
Superfund sites are eligible for
federally-funded cleanup, but
whenever possible the EPA makes
polluters pay for the contamination
they helped create.) The NPL now
numbers 1,275 sites, with 50 to 100
added each year. By the end of the
century, the NPL may reach as many
as 2000 sites.
Superfund faces some of the most
complex pollution problems ever
encountered by an environmental
program. Improperly stored or
disposed chemicals and the soil
they contaminate are one concern.
More difficult to correct are the
wetlands and bays, and the
groundwater, lakes, and rivers
often used for drinking water that
are contaminated by chemicals
spreading through the soil or
mixing with storm water runoff.
Toxic vapors contaminate the air at
some sites, threatening the health
of people living and working near
by.
Superfund aims to control immediate
public health and environmental
threats by tackling the worst
problems at the worst sites first.
Wherever possible, Superfund
officials use innovative treatment
techniques many developed or
refined by the EPA to correct
hazardous materials problems once
and for all. Many of the treatment
techniques they use did not exist
when the program was created.
The EPA Administrator had
challenged Superfund to complete
construction necessary for cleanup
work at 200 NPL sites by the end of
the 1992 federal fiscal year. By
September 30, 1992, the end of
fiscal year 1992, construction had
been completed at a total of 149
NPL sites. By September 30, 1993,
the end of fiscal year 1993,
construction had been completed at
217 sites, well in excess of the
Administrator's target of 200. The
Superfund program now projects
completing construction at over 650
sites by the year 2000.
Quick Cleanup at NON-NPL Sites
Long-standing hazardous waste sites
are not Superfund's only concern.
The EPA also responds to hazardous
spillsand other emergencies,
hauling away chemicals for proper
treatment or disposal. Superfund
teams perform"or supervise
responses at rail and motor vehicle
accidents, fires, and other
emergencies involving hazardous
substances. They also evacuate
people living and working near by,
if necessary, and provide clean
drinking water to people whose own
water is contaminated. Removal
crews also post warning signs and
take other precautions to keep
people and animals away from
hazardous substances.
Quick Cleanups, or Removals are not
limited to emergencies. When
cleanup crews at contaminated sites
find hazardous substances that
immediately threaten people or the
environment, they act right away to
reduce the threat or to remove the
chemicals outright. As the EPA
implements the Superfund
Accelerated Cleanup Model (SACM),
more and more sites will undergo
quick cleanups, and many of these
will be cleaned up completely •
-------
INTRODUCTION
without ever being included on the
NPL. (See "Streamlining Superfund
Accelerated Cleanup Model."")
Some of Superfund's most
significant gains in public health
and environmental protection have
been won by the removal program.
As of October 1, 1993, the
Emergency Response Program in
Region V has lost approximately 500
removal completions since Superfund
was established.
Public Participation
Superfund is unique among federal
programs in its commitment to
citizen participation. Although
the EPA is responsible for
determining how dangerous a site is
and how best to clean it up, the
Agency relies on citizen input as
it makes these decisions.
Probably, the most important
component of any NPL site is public
participation. Community
Involvement has played a
significant role in the development
of cleanup activities at a site.
Although most proposals for cleanup
activities are brought forth by the
agency, it is usually the citizen's
input that gives the "stamp of
approval" on the cleanup plan.
Residents also comment en EPA
cleanup plans by stating their
concerns and preferences at public
meetings and ocher forums and in
formal written comments to Agency
proposals. The EPA takes and
'concerns seriously, and has
modified many proposals in response
to local concerns. For ultimately,
it is the community and its
citizens that will live with the
results of the EPA's decisions and
actions; it is only fair that
citizens participate in the
crocess.
A Commitment to Communication
The Superfund program is very
serious about public outreach and
communication. Community relations
coordinators are assigned to each
NPL site to help the public
understand the potential hazards
present, as well as, the cleanup
alternatives. Local information
repositories, such as libraries or
other public buildings, have been
established near each NPL site to
ensure that the public has an
opportunity to review all relevant
information and the proposed
cleanup plans. The individual
State volumes contain summary fact
sheets on NPL sites in each State
and territory. Together, the fact
sheets provide a concise report on
site conditions and the progress
made toward site cleanups as of May
1994. The EPA revises these
volumes periodically to provide and
up-to-date record of program
activities. A glossary of terms
relating to hazardous waste
management and Superfund site
cleanup is provided at the back of
this book.
Superfund is, of course, a public
program, and as such it belongs to
everyone of us.
-------
INTRODUCTION
STREAMLINING SUPERFUND: THE SUPERFUND
ACCELERATED CLEANUP MODEL
Historically, cricics and
supporters alike have measured
Superfund's progress by the number
of hazardous waste sites deleted
from the NPL. Although easy enough
to tally, this approach does not
recognize the breadth of risk
reduction attained by Superfund.
First, it doesn't account for the
early remedial actions conducted at
the nations worst hazardous waste
sites, which occurs well before
site deletion. Second, it ignores
the significant contribution to
reducing risks to human health and
the environment by the Removal
Program.
In renewing Superfund's commitment
to quick and early response
actions, EPA has undertaken an
initiative to streamline the
Superfund program. The Superfund
Accelerated Cleanup Model (SACM)
emphasizes the conduct of early
actions, such as drum removal and
source control, while long-term
actions, such as groundwater
contamination are appropriately
studied. In addition, SACM
^envisions an integrated site
assessment process whereby the
different Superfund assessments are
integrated into a single process.
Integrated assessments will reduce
the time and resources required to
evaluate a site and assess its
threats to human health and the
environment. This way, immediate
public health and environmental
threats will be addressed while
long-term cleanups are being
planned.
Emergencies such as train
derailments and motor vehicle
accidents will continue to be
handled expeditiously. Teams of
highly trained technicians will
swing into action right away,
coordinating the cleanup and
removal of hazardous substances to
ensure public safety as quickly as
possible.
BREAKING WITH TRADITION
The traditional Superfund process
begins with a lengthy phase of
study and site assessment, but SACM
will save time by combing separate,
yet similar, activities.
Each EPA Region will form a
Regional Decision Team (RDT)
composed of program managers from
the Removal and Remedial program,
the Office of Regional Counsel,
Office of Public Affairs,
Environmental Science Division, and
the States. The RDT will be
responsible for making decisions on
sites based on recommendations by
Site Assessment Teams (SATs). The
SATs are comprised of an RPM, OSC,
SAM, staff attorney, State
representative, and community
relations coordinator. Other
experts such as ecologist and
toxicologists are brought in on the
SATs on an as needed basis. SATs
develop site specific strategies
potentially utilizing Removal (i.e.
early action) and/or Remedial (i.e.
long-term action) statutory
authorities.
In many instances, SATs will
recommend to the RDT the initiation
of a -study for a long-term action
while work begins on an early
action to eliminate an immediate
threat to public health and the
environment.
Early Actions include taking
precautions to keep contaminants
from moving off the site and
restricting access to the site.
Ear.y Actions can eliminate most,
if net all, risk associated with a
Super fund site. Consequently,
ear.y public involvement is
-------
INTRODUCTION
BREAKING WITH TRADITION
cont'
participation during the site
assessment process and Early
Actions.
LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS
While Early Actions can correct
many hazardous waste problems and
provide the bulk of public health
and environmental protection some
contamination will take longer to
correct. Cleanups of mining sites,
wetlands, estuaries, and projects
involving incineration of
contaminants or restoration of
ground water can take far longer
than the three to five years
envisioned for Early Actions.
Under the SACM paradigm, the
conduct of the long-term cleanup
action will be similar to the
present process.
Also under SACM, the EPA will
continue its pursuit of potentially
responsible parties who may have
caused or contributed to site
contamination. Expedited
enforcement and procedures for
negotiating potentially responsible
party settlements will secure their
participation. Superfund personnel
will continue to oversee clean-up
work performed by potentially
responsible parties.
-------
INTRODUCTION
HOW SUPERFUND WORKS
Each Superfund site presents a different
set of complex problems. The same haz-
ardous materials and chemicals often con-
taminate many sites, but the details of each
site are different Almost always, soil is con-
taminated with one or more chemicals. Their
vapors may taint the air over and around the
site. Contaminants may travel through the soil
and reach underground aquifers which may be
used for drinking water, or they may spread
over the site to contaminate streams, ponds,
and wetlands. The contaminating chemicals
may interact with each other, presenting even
more complicated cleanup problems.
Superfund's cleanup process is arduous and
exacting. It requires the best efforts of hun-
dreds of experts in science and engineering,
public health, administration and manage-
ment, law, and many other fields.
The average NPL site takes from seven to ten
years to work its way through the system,
from discovery to the start of long-term
cleanup. Actual cleanup work can take years,
decades if contaminated groundwater must
be treated. Of course, imminent threats to
public health or the environment are cor-
rected right away.
The diagram to the right presents a simplified
view of the cleanup process. The major steps
in the Superfund process are:
• Site discovery and investigation to iden-
tify contaminants and determine whether
emergency action is required;
• Emergency site work such as removing
contaminants for proper treatment or dis-
posal, and securing the site to keep people
and animals away, if warranted by condi-
tions at the site;
• Site evaluation to determine how people
living and working nearby, and the envi-
ronment, may be exposed to site contami-
nants;
• Detailed studies to determine whether con-
ditions are serious enough to add the site to
the National Priorities List of sites eligible
for federally funded cleanup under Super-
fund;
> Selection, design, and implementation of a
cleanup plan, after a thorough review of
the most effective cleanup options, given
site conditions, contaminants present, and
their potential threat to public health or the
environment
• Follow-up to ensure that the cleanup work
done at the site continues to be effective
over the long term.
The Superfund Process
From the earliest stages, EPA investigators
work hard to identify those responsible for the
contamination. As their responsibility is es-
tablished, the EPA negotiates with these "re-
sponsible parties" to pay for cleaning up the
problem they helped create. This "enforce-
ment first" policy saves-Superfund Trust Fund
monies for use in cleanups where the respon-
sible parties cannot be identified, or where
they are unable to fund cleanup work.
-------
THE VOLUME
How to Use the State Book
The .sue tact sheets presented in this book
are comprehensive summaries that cover
a broad range of information. The fact sheets
describe hazardous waste Mtes 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 eieanuu activities
completed, underway, or planned. The tact
sheets conclude wun a brier 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 sue contamination and community con-
. cems.
The fact sheets arc arranged in alphabetical
order by site name. Because sue 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 always is being
made at NPL .sites, and the EPA periodically
will update the sue fact sheets to reflect recent
actions and will publish updated State vol-
umes. The following two pages show a ge-
neric fact sheet and briefly describe the infor-
mation under each section.
How Can You Use
This State Book?
You can use this book to keep informed about
the sites that concern you. particularly ones
close to home. The EPA is committed 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 Super-
fund sites. Citizens are likely to be affected
not only by hazardous site conditions, but also
by the remedies that combat them. Site clean-
ups take many forms and can affect communi-
ties in different ways. Local traffic may be
rerouted, residents may be relocated, tempo-
rary 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.
-------
THE VOLUME
NPL L3TING HISTORY
Provides the dates when the
site was Proposed, made Final.
and Deleted tmm the NPL.
SITE RESPONSIBILITY
Identities the Federal. State.
and/or potentially responsible
ponies toKinu responsmility
tor 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 sue.
SITE NAME
STATE
EPA REGION XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
Threats and Contaminants
^^^^— ^g 4(j • tfm — ..— ••**» >x.cx»*jin **M«««» •«
,S~^^\ AMXBXKX »u4*uuu» ,*xx*mmm*m ««« **mmwnm • »• o •
Claanup Approacn
Response Action Status
Environmental Progress EZ2
Sit* Repository
SITE REPOSITORY
Lists the location ot 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.
-------
THE VOLUME
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 weil 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 rrom 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 arc 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.
-------
A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
-------
Superfund Activities in Wisconsin
The State of Wisconsin is located within EPA Region 5, Which includes the
six midwestern States. The State covers 56,153 square miles. According to
the 1990 Census, Wisconsin experienced a 4 percent increase in population
between 1980 and 1990, and is ranked sixteenth in U.S.
population with approximately 4,892,000 residents.
The State responds to contamination using two authorities.
The most prevalent is the Hazardous Substance Spill law enacted
in 1978, which requires persons who possess hazardous
substances to restore the environment to the extent prescribed
and to minimize harmful effects. The other authority is the
Environmental Repair Statue, enacted in 1984 as part of the
Groundwater bill, creates the Environmental Fund, requires a State site
ranking system applicable to any site responded to under the Repair Statue.
It authorizes the State to take emergency and long-term cleanup actions,
recover the cost of cleanup from polluters and obtain polluter cooperation
in site cleanups. This statue requires the State to prove that the
polluter is liable for contamination, for either ******. if a polluter is
liable, the State has the authority to compel the polluter to conduct or
pay for cleanup activities regardless of actual contribution to the
hazardous conditions. Additionally, under the Abandoned Containers Statute
of 1987, the State has the authority to use the Environmental Fund to
remove and dispose of abandoned vessels that contain hazardous substances.
This statute provide that a polluter is liable for damages posed by the
hazards, regardless of fault or amount of contributing contamination. In
practice, the State attempts to encourage polluter participation first: if
a polluter fails to respond, the State determines whether a State funded
action or to initiating a Federal Superfund action at the site is
appropriate. In addition to the 10-50 percent contribution from the State
required by the Federal Superfund program, the State funding amy be used
for emergency response and removal actions, site investigations, study and
design activities, long-term cleanup actions, and operation and maintenance
activities. The State strongly encourages public participation, requiring
public notice, a 30-day comment period, and public hearings at each stage
of the cleanup process. The State has recently **mulgated state
administrative ruler know as NR700, (effective May 1, 1995) . That
addresses cleanup progress for all sites being addressed under the Spill
and Repair Statues. Remedy selection and soil standard are still being
worked on and will be included in the NR700 series when complete.
Currently 39 sites in the State of Wisconsin have been listed as final on
the NPL.
THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
implements the Superfund Program in the State of Wisconsin
-------
WISCONSIN
Facts about the 40 NPL sites in Wisconsin:
Immediate Actions (such as removing hazardous substances or restricting
site access) were performed at 21 sites.
Twenty-one sites endanger sensitive environments.
Twenty-eight sites are located near residential areas.
The Potentially Responsible Party Pays...
In the State of Wisconsin, Potentially responsible parties are paying for
conducting cleanup activities at 29 NPL sites.
For Further Information on NPL sites and Hazardous Waste
Programs in the State of Wisconsin Please Contact:
* EPA Region 5 Office of
Public Affairs
* National Response Center
* Department of Natural
Resources: Emergency
and Remedial Response
Program
* EPA Region 5 Waste
Management Division
* EPA Superfund Hotline
For information concerning
community involvement
To report a hazardous
waste emergency
For information about the
State's responsibility in
the Superfund Program
For information about the
Regional Superfund Program
For information about the
Federal Superfund Program
(312) 353-2072
(800) 424-8802
(608) 267-7562
(312) 353-9419
(800) 424-9068
-------
ALGOMA MUNI
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980610380
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Kewaunee County
Algoma
The 13-acre Algoma Municipal Landfill was leased from Dumman Realty and was operated
from 1969 to 1983 by the City of Algoma. In 1970, the landfill received a license from the
State to accept municipal refuse. While most of the accepted waste was municipal refuse,
paint wastes, lacquers, thinners, and asbestos wastes also were disposed of at the landfill.
When the landfill closed in 1983, the City covered it with clay and topsoil. The landfill, which
has no liner, is underlain by a sand and gravel aquifer and another deeper aquifer. The two
aquifers are hydraulically connected so that water can move between them. The City of
Algoma's wells draw on the deeper aquifer, and rural wells draw from both aquifers. The site
is within 3 miles of Lake Michigan. Krohn's Lake, which is used for recreation, is less than 1
mile away. Approximately 5,000 people depend on groundwater within 3 miles of the site for
drinking water. Approximately 180 people live within 1 mile of the site, all using private water
supplies. The nearest residence is 1,100 feet away from the site boundary.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 07/21/87
Threats and Contaminants
In 1984, the EPA detected volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) and heavy metals in
on-site monitoring wells. An investigation completed in 1990 confirmed that the
groundwater continues to be contaminated with VOCs. Exposure to contaminated
groundwater through direct contact or accidental ingestion may be a potential
health threat. The potential exists for wetlands, located south of the site, to be
affected by the contaminated groundwater that surfaces in the area. However, no
release of hazardous materials into the wetlands has occurred.
May 1994
-------
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 1990, the potentially responsible parties, under EPA monitoring,
completed an investigation of the site. The final report indicated that the landfill
cap does not meet State safety standards and that the groundwater is
contaminated. Based on the results of the investigation, a new cover that meets State
standards was selected as the final remedy in a 1990 Record of Decision. Groundwater and
gas monitoring will be continued and gas control measures will be applied, along with
institutional controls to restrict the use of contaminated groundwater. The potentially
responsible parties began the design of these remedies in late 1991. Construction began in
early 1993 and was finished in December of that year.
Site Facts: Several companies and the City of Algoma, identified as parties potentially
responsible for site contamination, signed an Administrative Order on Consent in 1988 with
the EPA and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) to perform site
investigations. In 1991, the City of Algoma and several companies signed a Consent Decree
with EPA and WDNR to design and construct the remedy.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate emergency actions were required at the Algoma Municipal
Landfill site while the design of the cleanup activities is ongoing.
Site Repository
Algoma Public Library, 406 Fremont Street, Algoma, WI 54201
Algoma City Hall, 416 Fremont Street, Algoma, WI 54201
May 1994 ALGOMA MUNICIPAL LANDFILL
-------
BETTER BRITE
PLATING CO.
CHROME ANE
SHOPS
WISCONSIN
EPAID* WIT560010118
EPA REGION 5
Brown County
DePere
Other Names:
Better Brlte Zinc
Better Brlte Chrome
Site Description
The 2-acre Better Brite Plating Co. Chrome and Zinc Shops site consists of two sections that
are divided by a residential area. Metal plating operations were conducted at the chrome
shop from 1963 until 1986 and at the zinc shop from 1970 until 1989. While the plants were
in operation, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) documented
numerous violations and spills at the facility, including a spill of 2,200 gallons of chromium-
contaminated plating solutions and rinse water in 1979. In order to remedy the situation,
Better Brite installed groundwater monitoring wells and constructed a collection system that
allowed water to be pumped to a central surface water holding pond. Better Brite also
constructed a slope to prevent surface water from running off the site. In addition, Better
Brite excavated soil from neighboring properties and deposited it on the site. During the
course of operations at the site, over 20,000 gallons of plating solution are thought to have
leaked from in-ground plating tanks. A study of soil in 1979 identified chromium-
contaminated soil in the areas to the west and south of the main building. Although Better
Brite was ordered by the WDNR to clean up the contamination in 1980, no action was taken.
Several subsequent inspections, conducted by the WDNR from 1980 to 1987, revealed
extensive on-site chromium contamination as well as contamination in the building's air
handling system. Shortly after operations ceased, the WDNR received a complaint that yellow
water was running from the chrome shop into the city sewer. Subsequently, the WDNR
investigated this incident and found chromium in the runoff and soil at a neighboring
residence. To prevent exposure to contaminated soil, the WDNR razed the main building,
partially fenced the site, covered the site with clay, placed topsoil on the clay cover, and
seeded it. Also in 1988, the EPA allocated emergency funds to the WDNR to design a
treatment system, which is now operational, for water being discharged from the site to the
DePere Wastewater Treatment Plant. The owners abandoned the site in 1989. Due to
bankruptcy proceedings, ownership of the land at both facilities is in question. Approximately
46,000 people obtain drinking water from municipal wells within 3 miles of the site. DePere
Municipal Well #2 is 500 feet downgradient of the zinc shop.
May 1994
-------
_.t _ ...... _ . v . , . , , , t, , NPL LISTING HISTORY
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through Proposed Date: 10/26/89
Federal and State actions. Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
1\
Groundwater, surface water, and soil are contaminated with heavy metals including
chromium and zinc, as well as cyanide and various volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). Area residents may be exposed to contaminants through direct contact
with or accidental ingestion of these contaminated materials. Contaminants have
migrated into groundwater. A sandstone aquifer serves as the municipal water
supply for the City of DePere, and the villages of Allouez and Ashwaubenon.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions, long-term remedial phase focusing
on cleanup of the entire site, and interim actions.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: The EPA removed over 83 tons of contaminated soil, 9,270
gallons of chromic acid, 3,600 gallons of toxic liquids, 550 gallons of cyanide
solution, 150 pounds of cyanide sludge, and 500 gallons of flammable liquids from
the chrome shop facility in 1986. In 1990, the EPA removed hazardous materials from the
zinc shop in the same manner. These wastes subsequently were treated and disposed of in an
EPA-approved landfill. The water treatment system was completed in 1990 and is now fully
operational. Surface removal of drums, vats, and tanks remaining on site was completed in
1991.
Entire Site: A State-lead investigation into the nature and extent of remaining
contamination at the site began in 1990. Based on the results of this investigation,
final site cleanup remedies will be selected.
May 1994 BETTER BRITE PLATING CO.
CHROME AND ZINC SHOPS
-------
Interim Action: In 1991, the EPA selected an interim action to address
contamination at the chrome and zinc shops. The selected interim remedies
include continuing operation of the 1990 groundwater treatment system, few
repairing the zinc shop and contructing a fence around it, and improving the collection system
at the chrome shop by extending trenches and regrading the soil to prevent flooding. This
effort was stopped momentarily to remove the source of contamination from the zinc and
chrome shops. Concrete slabs and contaminated soil beneath the slabs are currently being
removed from both shops. Once this is completed, it will be determined if the collection
system still needs to be improved.
Environmental Progress
Removing substantial quantities of hazardous waste and securing the site have reduced the
potential for explosion and exposure to hazardous materials at the Better Brite Co. Plating
Chrome and Zinc Shops site while final interim cleanup activities are taking place.
Site Repository
Brown County Public Library, DePere Branch, 380 Main Avenue, DePere, WI 54115
BETTER BRITE PLATING CO.
CHROME AND ZINC SHOPS
May 1994
-------
CITY DISPOSAL
CORP. LANDFI
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980610646
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Dane County
Town of Dunn
The City Disposal Corp. Landfill site covers approximately 24 acres of a 38-acre landfill. The
unlined landfill was filled with municipal and industrial waste from 1966 to 1977. Waste was
deposited into on-site cells. Six of these cells were used for disposing of municipal wastes
from surrounding communities in Dane County that were served by the landfill. The other six
cells were not used for disposal during the lifetime of the landfill. From 1966 until 1975,
industrial wastes and organic chemicals were disposed of in a small pit on the eastern side of
the landfill. During the early 1970s, industrial wastes such as solvents, organics, and oily
wastes were deposited. The site was licensed by the State as a solid waste landfill.
Reportedly, 55-gallon drums and bulk liquid waste from area industries were deposited on the
site and were covered periodically. Hazardous waste disposal at the landfill was phased out in
1975, and the site was closed in 1977. The site was subsequently capped. The state permit
expired in 1977 and was not reissued. There are an estimated 5,500 people living within 3
miles of the site. Approximately 160 people residing within a mile of the site depend on
private wells. The surrounding area is mainly agricultural. A residential subdivision is located
southwest of the site, and a wooded area lies to the south. Badfish Creek, which receives
runoff from the site, is located 300 feet east of the landfill. The City of Madison discharges
treated wastewater into Badfish Creek.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
Threats and Contaminants
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
On-site groundwater and soil are contaminated with volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). Potential health threats to people include drinking contaminated
groundwater, accidental ingestion of contaminated soil, inhalation of contaminated
dusts and air particles, and direct contact with contaminated groundwater and soils.
Grass Lake, a habitat for sandhill cranes and other wildlife, is located about 700
feet northeast of the site and could be subject to pollution from the site runoff.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on controlling the
source on contamination and the cleanup of the groundwater. EPA issued a Record of
Decision in September 1992, which called for placing of a cap over the site, and groundwater
control measures.
Response Action Status
Source Control: Under EPA monitoring, Waste Management of Wisconsin
conducted an investigation into the nature and extent of the contamination
present at the landfill, including a geophysical survey and soil sampling. The
investigation defined the contaminants of concern and recommended alternatives for the final
cleanup. The investigation was completed in 1992.
Groundwater: Also under EPA monitoring, Waste Management of Wisconsin
conducted an investigation into the nature and extent of groundwater
contamination at the site. The study included providing an inventory of existing
monitoring wells, sampling and analyzing groundwater, and analyzing data on groundwater
movement. The investigation defined the contaminants of concern and recommended
alternatives for the final cleanup. The investigation was completed in 1992.
Site Facts: In 1987, an Administrative Order on Consent was entered into between the EPA
and Waste Management of Wisconsin, a party potentially responsible for the site
contamination, requiring the company to investigate the site contamination. In 1993, EPA
issued a unilateral administrative order calling for the conduct of remedial design/remedial
action efforts necessary to implement the Record of Decision.
Environmental Progress
After listing the City Disposal Corp. Landfill site on the NPL, the EPA conducted preliminary
studies and determined that the site does not pose an imminent threat to the surrounding
communities or the environment while the investigations leading to the selection of final
cleanup solutions for the site are taking place. As of 1994, pre-design and remedial design
efforts are on-going.
Site Repository
Dunn Town Hall, 4156 County Trunk Highway B, McFarland, WI 53558
May 1994 CITY DISPOSAL CORP. LANDFILL
-------
DELAVAN MUNI
WELL #4
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980820062
EPA REGION 5
Walworth County
Delavan
Site Description
The Delavan Municipal Well #4 site is defined as the contaminated aquifer used by the
Delavan Well #4. Well #4 was closed in 1982 due to contamination by volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), but is used occasionally when another city well must be taken out of
service. When used, the water from Well #4 is blended with other city water to reduce any
concentrations of contaminants to levels below what is considered a health risk. The blending
occurs at a common point past the inlet for Well #4; this requires Well #3 to pump at the
same time. When Well #3 was shut down, Well #4 was used continuously. During that time,
unblended water from Well #4 may have been delivered to nearby residents, businesses, and
a school. There are more than 3,000 people living within 1 mile of the site. The population of
Delavan relies on municipal water, and no private wells have been identified in the area.
Surrounding the site are schools, homes, businesses, and an industrial facility. The distance
from the well to the closest residence is 500 feet.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Air may be contaminated with VOCs from the use of extraction wells or the
sprayer-aerator system used at a nearby industry. Well #4 and the area soils are
contaminated with VOCs, including trichloroethylene (TCE). When Well #4 is
used to supply water to the municipality, there is the possibility of a health threat
to people through drinking it, coming in direct contact with it, or inhaling
contaminated vapors in the water. When Well #4 is used, highly contaminated
water from the industrial site across the street may be pulled toward the well,
potentially increasing VOC concentrations.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two phases: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: A potentially responsible party for the site contamination has
taken steps to contain contaminated groundwater near the site through the
installation of a groundwater extraction system and a soil venting system. The
groundwater extraction and soil venting systems were operating and were expanded in 1992.
The systems have been operational for years, but recent investigative work has shown that
expansion was necessary.
Entire Site: The State, under EPA monitoring, began an investigation into the
nature and extent of the groundwater contamination at the site in 1990. The
investigation defined the contaminants of concern through the installation of
monitoring wells and the sampling of soil, and recommended alternatives for the final cleanup
remedy. The investigation was completed in 1993.
Environmental Progress
EPA determined, after initial evaluations of the Delavan Municipal Well #4 site, that no
other immediate actions are required to protect the surrounding community or the
environment while the groundwater containment system is being installed and the
investigations leading to the selection of a final remedy for site contamination are taking
place.
Site Repository
Aram Public Library, 404 East Walworth Avenue, Delavan, WI 53115
May 1994 DELAVAN MUNICIPAL WELL #4
-------
EAU CLAIRE
MUNICIPAL
WELL FIELD
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980820054
Site Description -
EPA REGION 5
Eau CJaire County
>r the Eau Claire Co. Airport, east of
the Chippewa River
The Eau Claire Municipal Well Field (ECMWF) site covers 500 acres and consists of 14 wells
that provide drinking water for the residents of Eau Claire County. In 1981, the Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) sampled groundwater from the ECMWF as part
of an EPA-sponsored groundwater survey of 20 Wisconsin cities. The WDNR's sampling
detected volatile organic compounds (VOCs), primarily in the north well field. However, the
level of VOCs delivered to homes remained below the State groundwater quality standards.
In 1982, the City began monitoring VOC levels in residential wells near the municipal field.
In 1983, the City found that VOC levels in one of these wells exceeded the State's
groundwater quality standards and recommended that its owners use bottled water instead of
groundwater. In 1984, five of the municipal wells in the north field also were found to be
contaminated with VOCs. The contamination at the site initially was characterized as two
separate plumes. However, studies conducted at the nearby National Presto Industries site,
which also is on the NPL, have shown that the two plumes are actually a single continuous
plume that originates at the National Presto site. The plume is approximately 2 1/2 miles in
length and extends from the National Presto site to, and including, the ECMWF. The
municipal well field serves approximately 57,600 residents of the county. Also, an unknown
number of residents in the county pump their own groundwater from privately owned wells.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater at the site was contaminated with VOCs including trichlorethane,
dichlorethene, and tetrachloroethene. People could have been exposed to VOCs if
they drank or came in direct contact with contaminated groundwater or if they had
inhaled hazardous substances that the water released into the air. The EPA does
not believe that the nearby Chippewa River was affected by the contamination, as
pumping of the municipal wells prevents the groundwater from discharging into the
river.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1984, the EPA conducted a focused study of the nature
and extent of VOC contamination in drinking water. The results of this study
recommended air stripping as the recommended method to address contamination
at the site. In mid-1987, the EPA completed construction of an air-stripping unit to remove
VOCs from the contaminated groundwater in the north field. This method treats the
groundwater, discharges it to a municipal water treatment plant, and then to a distribution
system.
Entire Site: The EPA completed an additional study in 1988 to study the nature
and extent of contamination at the entire site and to identify and analyze various
alternatives that best addressed remaining contamination. The EPA selected the
following final remedies for the site: withdrawing water from the existing municipal wells in
the north well field and removing VOCs from the water using the existing air stripper;
installing extraction wells in the north well field and discharging water extracted by those
wells directly to the Chippewa River without treatment; installing extraction wells in Plume
#2 and discharging water extracted by those wells directly to the Chippewa River without
treatment; connecting to the city water system or providing individual treatment units to
those residences within the contaminated areas; and monitoring groundwater quality during
the action to determine when the groundwater has been cleaned up to meet State and
Federal guidelines. The EPA is continuing to treat the municipal groundwater supply with the
air stripper and has provided municipal water to users of private well water. In 1990, the EPA
finished construction of 22 hookups to the municipal water supply for those residences which
cannot use groundwater, as a result of Plume #1 contamination. With the exception of the
installation of extraction wells in plume #2, all construction at the ECMWF site has been
completed. Based on the investigations at the National Presto site, the extraction well
installation will be addressed as part of the cleanup process for National Presto Industries.
In 1993, EPA reached a settlement with National Presto Industries whereby the company
reimbursed the Agency for approximately 95 percent of EPA costs associated with the
investigation and cleanup of the ECMWF site. This settlement was under the terms fo a
consent decree between EPA, U.S. Department of Justice and National Presto Industries.
Site Facts: In September 1992, the EPA released an Interim Closeout Report for the
ECMWF.
May 1994 EAU CLAIRE MUNICIPAL WELL FIELD
-------
Environmental Progress
The air stripping unit in use at the ECMWF site is successfully controlling the level of VOCs
in the groundwater being fed to the municipal wells. This action, in addition to connecting
affected residences to the municipal water supply, is protecting the surrounding population
and environment. The remaining cleanup actions are being evaluated as part of the
investigation at the National Presto NPL site.
Site Repository
L.E. Phillips Memorial Library, 400 Eau Claire Street, Eau Claire, WI 54701
Eau Claire City Hall, 203 S. Farwell Street, Eau Claire, WI 54701
EAU CLAIRE MUNICIPAL WELL FIELD
May 1994
-------
FADROWSKI Dfl
DISPOSAL
WISCONSIN
EPAID# WID980901227
EPA REGION 5
Milwaukee County
Franklin
Other Names:
Menard's Drum Disposal Site
lotion
ite
he Fadrowski Drum Disposal site covers approximately 20 acres on South 27th Street, on
the eastern edge of Franklin, along its border with Oak Creek. From 1970 until 1981, Edward
Fadrowski, of Ed's Masonry and Trucking, operated a landfill at the site to dispose of
demolition and construction wastes. A former employee alleged in 1981 that the property was
used for the disposal of hazardous waste and that several hundred drums and lubricant
sludges were buried there. Early in 1983, Menard, Inc. purchased part of the site and began
to construct a store to sell home building materials. Excavation of the property turned up
buried drums. Analysis of drum contents by the State showed the drums contained volatile
organic compounds (VOCs), lead, chromium, and small amounts of arsenic. One sample of
oily sludge contained DDT, a pesticide no longer in use. The EPA and the Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) believe that a number of responsible parties
generated the hazardous substances that were disposed of at the site. Construction work
completed in 1993 revealed approximately 180 drums. Environmental concerns at the site
include contamination of the soil and shallow groundwater. Nearby residents use a deeper
aquifer, which is separated from the contaminated aquifer by about 80 feet of low
permeability clay, as their source of drinking water. No private well contamination has been
found. About 18,000 people depend on wells that are within 3 miles of the site as sources of
drinking water. The nearest residence is about 200 feet from the site. Residential and
commercial buildings exist in the vicinity of the site. There are several schools and parks
within a 2-mile radius of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater samples collected from one of the monitoring wells on site indicated
low levels of mercury and benzene. Chromium, barium, and cyanide were found in
shallow groundwater at levels exceeding State limits. Sediment samples collected
from on-site creeks and ditches contained PAHs and inorganic compounds.
Subsurface soil samples collected from the site are contaminated with low level
VOCs, especially toluene. One surface water sample taken from the on-site creek
contained low levels of cyanide and VOCs. People could be exposed to hazardous
substances through drinking contaminated groundwater or surface water or by
accidentally ingesting contaminated soil. Exposure to buried drums could pose a
threat if the site is developed. The drums also could rupture, causing further
contamination of the environment.
May 1994
-------
Approximately 9 acres of wetlands border the on-site pond on the west. In the
past, run-off form the site flowed towards the wetlands; however, once remedial
action is complete site run-off will be redirected to an on-site drainage system.
The site was occasionally used for recreational activities. Local residents in the
area around the site, especially children, use the pond located at the eastern edge
of the site for swimming and could thus be exposed to site contamination.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed via a single long-term remedial action which includes
installing a cap in compliance with WDNR Administrative Code regulations.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: Acme Printing Company, under the supervision of the
EPA and the WDNR, began a study in 1987 to determine the nature
and extent of contamination at the site. The study was completed in
early 1991. The final cleanup remedy was selected in 1991 and involves removing
drums, testing for soil contamination levels, capping the waste disposal area,
fencing the site, and controlling future site use through deed restrictions. Design
specifications for the final cleanup remedy were completed and cleanup was
initiated. Cleanup activities completed at the site in 1993 include: installation of
erosion control measures, storm sewer installation, removal of on-site pond, pond
backfilling, and excavation and securing of approximately 180 drums. Cleanup will
be completed in 1994.
Environmental Progress
After listing the Fadrowski Drum site on the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary
evaluations and determined that the site does not pose an immediate threat to the
surrounding community and the environment. The second phase of construction
activities is in progress. Cleanup will be completed in 1994.
Site Repository-
Franklin Public Library, 9229 West Loomis Road, Franklin, WI 53132
May 1994
FADROWSKI DRUM DISPOSAL
-------
HAGEN FARM
WISCONSIN
EPA ID#WID980610059
EPA REGION 5
Dane County
Dunkirk
Other Names:
No Name Property at 2318 County A
Site Description
The Hagen Farm site covers 10 acres and is located approximately a mile east of Stoughton.
The site operated as a sand and gravel pit from the 1950s until the mid-1960s, when it served
as a disposal site for municipal waste from the City of Stoughton and industrial waste from
Uniroyal Plastics Corporation, as well as other sources. The site consists of one main disposal
area and two smaller areas located in a former gravel quarry. During its operation as a waste
disposal site, solvents and other chemicals and chunks of solid vinyl were disposed of at the
site. Waste disposal activities ceased at the site about 1966. The disposal area on the site was
covered with a layer of soil, and the property subsequently was sold in 1977 to Orrin Hagen,
a sheep farmer. In 1980, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) received
a complaint from a local resident alleging that the site had been used for the disposal of
drummed wastes during the 1960s. The WDNR investigated the site, then in use as a sheep
pasture, and observed that solid vinyl was protruding through the soil. The WDNR sampled
nearby residential wells in 1980 through 1982, at which time volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) were found. Uniroyal conducted a study to evaluate groundwater quality at and near
the site in 1982 and detected VOCs in the groundwater. In 1987, Orrin Hagen transferred
ownership of the site to Waste Management, Inc. (WMI), the current owner. The population
of the City of Stoughton is estimated to be 7,500. The land surrounding the site is semi-rural
and industrial. Approximately 350 people reside within a mile of the site. The majority of
Stoughton's residents draw water from a municipal well water supply system, and an
estimated 940 people depend on private wells located within 3 miles of the site for their
drinking water supply. The City of Stoughton's municipal wells are located about 2 miles to
the west, and eight private wells are located within 1,200 feet of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/16/85
Final Date: 07/22/87
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
The ground water is contaminated with VOCs such as tetrahydrofuran (THF),
benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene and xylenes (BTEX). The highest concentrations
of VOCs in ground water are located near the former disposal areas. On-property
soils/wastes are also contaminated with VOCs.
Currently, ingestion of contaminated ground water or breathing VOCs while
showering with contaminated ground water pose a potential health threat.
Contaminated soils/wastes have been capped; therefore, direct exposure to
contaminants is not currently a potential health threat.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: interim actions and two long-term
remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: The neighboring land was purchased by the current
site owner, WMI, the houses on that land have been demolished, and a
protruding drum has been removed. The site has been fenced, although
an access road to an active gravel pit runs directly past the main dump site.
Source Control: Two smaller areas of waste were exhumed,
consolidated into the main disposal area and the main disposal area was
capped. Construction of the cap was completed in May 1992.
Construction of a In-Situ Vapor Extraction (ISVE) system through the cap was
completed in January 1994. The ISVE system is currently operational and
functional. The ISVE was designed to treat contaminants in the soils/wastes by
drawing out VOCs and drawing in oxygen which will promote biodegradation of
the wastes. The cap and ISVE system are anticipated to reduce the potential of
contaminant loading to the ground water from the contaminated soils/wastes. The
ISVE system may also help reduce VOC concentrations in ground water directly
under the landfill cap. The ISVE system is anticipated to run until at least late
spring.
Groundwater: The potentially responsible party is designing a ground
water extraction and treatment system. Ground water close to the
disposal area is anticipated to be treated by an above-ground biological
treatment system. More diluted ground-water contamination away from the
property is anticipated to be treated by one the following five treatment
technologies: biological treatment, cascade aeration, air-stripping, granular
activated carbon (GAC) adsorption or U/V oxidation. The most appropriate
treatment technology will be selected by the EPA, in consultation with the
WDNR, after completion of bench-scale treatability studies in late 1994. One
option under consideration is to combine the relatively concentrated and diluted
contaminated ground water and run it through one system. The design is
May 1994 HAGEN FARM
-------
anticipated to be completed by the end of summer 1995.
Site Facts: The Wisconsin Department of Justice filed an enforcement action
against Uniroyal, Inc. and Waste Management of Wisconsin in 1983, directing
them to perform an investigation and to clean up the site. This action was
dismissed in 1987 when Uniroyal and Waste Management agreed to undertake the
site study. The remedial design/remedial action (RD/RA) is currently being
conducted by Waste Management of Wisconsin. Waste Management of Wisconsin
settled claims against Uniroyal in December 1992 and currently is the only
participating Potentially Responsible Parties.
Environmental Progress
By fencing in a major area of the Hagen Farm site, removing a contaminated
drum, demolishing buildings, and capping the contaminated soils/wastes. The
potential for exposure to site contamination has been reduced while work is
ongoing, leading to the remedy for ground water contamination.
Site Reposito
Stoughton Public Library, 304 South Fourth Street, Stoughton, WI 53589
Dunkirk Town Hall, County Trunk Highway N. Stoughton, WI 53589
HAGAN FARM
May 1994
-------
HECHIMOVICH
SANITARY
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID052906088
EPA REGION 5
Dodge County
Williamstown, approximately
2 miles from Mayville
Site Description
The Hechimovich Sanitary Landfill site is situated on 24 acres and is located in Williamstown,
a rural area located approximately 2 miles south of Mayville. The site is a former commercial
landfill that operated from 1959 to 1986. The owner of the site claims that he placed
hazardous waste in unlined pits from 1972 to 1980. Some of the types of wastes disposed of
in these pits include paint sludges, cutting oils, and spent organic solvents. The Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) ordered the pits closed in 1980. The EPA
detected volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in two wells downgradient of the site in 1984.
The owner of the site violated the terms of the landfill's permit by depositing solid waste in
areas beyond those previously approved by the WDNR. The towns nearest to the site are
Mayville, with a population of 4,330, and Horicon, with 3,585 residents. Approximately 5,000
people obtain their drinking water from private wells located within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater in several wells downgradient of the site has been shown to be
contaminated with VOCs. On-site soil is contaminated with VOCs as well. Direct
contact with or ingestion of contaminated groundwater or soil may pose health
threats. Local surface waters may be used by residents for recreational activities. If
site-related contaminants should migrate into the surface water, residents could be
exposed to them when coming into direct contact with these bodies of water. A
portion of the Hechimovich Landfill site is a wetland, which could be at risk from
site runoff.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase directed at cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The project has been divided into two operable units, the first
operable unit addresses source control. Through the enforcement of an existing
state court order, the potentially responsible parties (PRPs) installed a landfill cap
and a gas collection system. A 1994 Record of Decision indicated that because of this action,
no further source control interim action was necessary. The PRPs are currently conducting
the second operable unit which addresses the groundwater contamination at the site. This
study is expected to be completed in 1994.
Environmental Progress
After adding the Hechimovich Landfill site to the NPL, the EPA determined, after initial
evaluations, that the site does not pose an immediate threat to the surrounding communities
or the environment while the investigations leading to the selection of a final cleanup remedy
are taking place.
The installation of the landfill cover and gas collection system has eliminated exposure to the
waste and contaminated soil. It has also minimized the potential release of contaminants
from the landfill waste to the groundwater.
Site Repository
Administrative Record Repository: Mayville Public Library, 111 N. Main Street
Mayville, WI
May 1994
HECHIMOVICH SANITARY LANDFILL
-------
HUNTS DISPOS
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPAID# WID980511919
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Racine Country
Caledonia
The Hunts Disposal Landfill site consists of 35 acres of an 84-acre parcel and is located 8
miles north of Racine in Caledonia. This site is an old sand and gravel pit that was first
licensed to operate as a dump by the Racine County Board of Adjustments in 1959. From
1959 to 1974, the various owners of the site accepted both industrial and municipal wastes. In
1970, the State granted a license to the owners of the landfill that allowed them to accept
non-combustible trash, garbage, and wooden material. In 1974, the site was purchased by
Waste Management, Inc. of Wisconsin from Caledonia Corporation Landfill, which had
acquired it in 1972, when it was operating as Hunts Disposal Landfill. During the late 1960s
and early 1970s, area residents reported seeing people driving cars to the site and dumping
garbage into the ditch near the railroad tracks. Residents also complained that the site was
poorly covered. In 1964, four 10,000-gallon tanks containing residual arsenic acid sludge were
buried at the site. According to files kept by Racine County, these tanks were cleaned before
they were buried. During 1973 to 1974, the State noted several operational problems such as
seepage of wastes into the groundwater, lack of proper cover, and windblown paper. The
Hunts Disposal site was closed in 1974. An inspection conducted by the State in 1975 noted
deficiencies in final cover and topsoil depths, severe gully erosion on some slopes, and the
absence of vegetative cover over portions of the landfill. The site was purchased by the
Boundary Corporation in 1975. In 1976, the County purchased the site as a part of the Root
River Parkway System, a regional park concept. The Hunts Disposal site is located in a semi-
rural area that is developing into a residential community. There are several residences
located in the immediate vicinity of the site and within the boundaries of Caledonia,
Approximately 1,500 people live within a 1-mile radius of the site. All of the residences in the
vicinity of the site rely on private wells for their water supply. A subdivision of approximately
1,000 people is located 1 to 1 1/2 miles west of the landfill site across the Root River. These
residents obtain their water from a private sanitation district. Residents of Oak Creek,
located 1/4 mile north of the site, rely on municipal wells that draw water from depths of
approximately 1,800 feet. Marshlands border the site on the west.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 07/21/87
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
On-site soils and groundwater are contaminated with volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) and heavy metals. Groundwater and surface water on the eastern side of
the site are contaminated with heavy metals including arsenic and lead. Soils from
the landfill area are contaminated with heavy metals and VOCs. On-site workers
and trespassers could be exposed to site-related contaminants by accidentally
ingesting or coming into direct contact with contaminated groundwater, surface
water, soils, or sediment. Hydrogeologic conditions favor the migration of
groundwater off site. If groundwater contamination migrates into private and
municipal wells, area residents could be exposed to contaminants in the
groundwater. The Root River, which is used by area residents for recreational
purposes, borders the site, and runoff from the contaminated soils and surface
water could pollute these waters and sediments.
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: Waste Management and Racine County made an attempt to
abandon the site in 1982 and conducted several activities including repairing
erosion damage, sealing leachate seeps, and revegetating the site. The EPA
conducted an inspection of the site in 1984 and took several samples of soils, surface waters,
groundwater, and sediments.
Entire Site: Based on investigations conducted by the EPA and the State, the
EPA selected a remedy in 1990 to clean up the site by consolidating the
contaminated soil and sediment onto the landfill and constructing a cap over it. In
1992 a group of Potentially Responsible Parties signed a Consent Decree with EPA to
prepare the Remedial Design and perform the Remedial Action. A landfill gas collection and
treatment system will be installed to control vapors at the site. A partial-slurry wall will be
constructed around the perimeter of the landfill to contain groundwater. The groundwater
will be pumped and treated on-site prior to discharge. In addition, the site will be fenced to
prevent access and exposure to contaminants. The design of the remedy is scheduled to be
completed in 1995.
Environmental Progress
Investigations by the EPA and the State have determined that the Hunts Disposal Landfill
does not pose an imminent threat to the public. The EPA has selected the remedy for site
cleanup, and Potentially Responsible Parties have agreed to implement the required action.
Pre-design studies have been completed and the design in scheduled to be completed in 1995.
May 1994 HUNTS DISPOSAL LANDFILL
-------
Site Repository
Caledonia Town Hall, 6922 Nicholson Road, Caledonia, WI 53108
HUNTS DISPOSAL LANDFILL
May 1994
-------
LAUER I SANII
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID058735994
EPA REGION 5
Waukesha County
Menomonee Falls
Other Names:
Waste Management Lauer I
United Waste Systems
Boundary Road Landfill
Site Description
From the mid-1950s to 1972, the 46-acre Lauer I Sanitary Landfill accepted a variety of
municipal and industrial wastes. The site was closed and covered in 1973. It took several years
for the owners to vegetate the cover and properly abandon the site. In 1973 and 1974, State
inspectors revealed holes in the berm around the site that allowed leachate from a collection
pond to escape into a ditch that drains into the Menomonee River. In 1981, the owner
installed an underground wall of clay materials between the landfill and the pond to stem the
flow of leachate. Presently, leachate accumulating behind the cut-off wall is sent to a
municipal wastewater treatment plant. Approximately 23,500 individuals reside within a 3-mile
radius of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Soils and leachate are contaminated with benzene, cyanide, toluene, and zinc.
People may be exposed to contaminants through accidental ingestion or by coming
in direct contact with contaminated soil or leachate. Although the landfill has been
covered and seeded for recreational use, leachate continues to threaten
groundwater and nearby surface waters. Also, contaminants may enter the food
chain by way of locally raised livestock and vegetables.
May 1994
-------
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: An investigation to determine the nature and extent of
contamination and to identify alternative long-term remedial methods began in
1991, under State guidance. Based on the results of the investigation, a remedy
will be selected for site cleanup. It was completed under state guidance in August 1993.
Site Facts: Negotiations between the State and one potentially responsible party, Waste
Management of Wisconsin, began in 1988. An agreement between the State and Waste
Management was signed in August 1990, requiring the company to take responsibility for
investigating site contamination and designing and constructing the State-selected remedy.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions are required at the Lauer I Sanitary Landfill site while
an investigation into final cleanup remedies is taking place.
Site Repository
Maude Shunk Library, W156 N8486 Pilgrim Road, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
May 1994
LAUER I SANITARY LANDFILL
-------
JANESVILLE A
BEDS
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID000712950
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Rock County
Janesville
Other Names:
Janesville Disposal Facilities
The Janesville Ash Beds site covers about 5 acres of a 65-acre parcel of land on the northern
side of Janesville. There are four Janesville Disposal Facilities (JDF) on these 65 acres: the
Janesville Ash Beds (JAB), the Old Dump Site (1963 site), the Janesville Old Landfill (1978
site), and the New Landfill (1985 site). The JAB and the Janesville Old Landfill are listed on
the NPL and are being cleaned up under Superfund. The New Landfill and the Old dump are
being handled under the Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA). The City of
Janesville is the owner of the properties and has operated land disposal activities at the site
since the 1950s. The JAB, which began operating in 1974, consisted of five separate ash beds.
The facility accepted an assortment of industrial liquids and sludges. Approximately 1 1/2 to 3
million gallons of industrial sludges were accepted annually. Fly ash and the resultant dried
sludges were sent to the Old Landfill for disposal from 1974 to 1978 and then to the New
Landfill. From 1974 to 1983, the ash beds were unlined, with only a plastic liner beneath a
small portion of the bed to serve as a leachate sampling system. In the fall of 1982, beds #3,
#4, and #5, were excavated, contaminated ash and soils were removed, and the beds were
reconstructed with clay liners and equipped with leachate collection systems. Industrial wastes
still were being accepted at beds #1 and #2 while the other three beds were being
reconstructed. Bed #1 was closed, and the sludge was removed in 1983. Wastes were not
accepted at bed #2 after 1983, and the sludge was removed in 1984. In 1985, the remaining
three beds (#3, #4, and #5) were cleaned and closed, and the entire JAB area was covered
with clay and graded. Over 1,000 tons of ash from the JAB had been disposed of in the New
Landfill. For further information on the Old Landfill, see the separate listing under Janesville
Old Landfill. Janesville has a population of approximately 51,000 people. Residential areas
are located within a few hundred feet of the Janesville Disposal Facilities. A number of
parks are within 2 miles of the sites and two schools are within 1 mile. The Rock River is
about 1,500 feet west of the sites.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
In most instances, all four facilities have contributed to contamination in the air,
groundwater, sediments, soil, and surface water. Methane gas has been detected in
the air at the disposal facility. Groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) including benzene, acetone, tetrachlorethene, trichloroethene
Surface water in the Rock River contains low levels of VOCs. Small amounts of
contaminants are found in the Rock River and the on-site pond. These, along with
air pose a very low health risk. Soil and groundwater may pose a threat if
individuals accidentally ingest or contact contaminants.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
five components of the JDF: JAB, 1985 site, 1978 site, 1963 site and JDF groundwater.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The potentially responsible parties, under EPA monitoring, completed
a study of the four Janesville Disposal facilities. The EPA broke the site down into
five cleanup components: New Landfill, Old Landfill, Old Dump, JAB, and JDF
groundwater. All being handled jointly by RCRA/CERCLA Consent Decree. In 1989, the
EPA selected the remedies for the JAB and the related JDF groundwater contamination.
The remedy involves restricting access and land use, continuing cap maintenance, complying
with applicable Federal requirements, removing and properly disposing of the remaining ash
pile, restricting land and groundwater use between the facility and the Rock River, installing
groundwater extraction wells to protect the Rock River from migrating contaminants, and
developing a groundwater treatment system using an air stripper to remove VOCs. Consent
Decree for the Remedial Design/Remedial Action was entered with the District Court
January 1992.
Site Facts: In 1986, the EPA, the State, and the parties potentially responsible for site
contamination reached an agreement requiring the parties to conduct an investigation of the
contamination at the Janesville facilities. The Old Landfill and JAB sites are being addressed
under Superfund, as both are listed on the NPL while the other two sites in addition to the
JAB site, are being addressed under the authority of RCRA regulations. These two RCRA
sites were included in the NPL investigation because of their close proximity to the Old
Landfill and JAB areas. The JAB and the 1985 site are RCRA interim status sites.
May 1994 JANESVILLE ASH BEDS
-------
Environmental Progress
The complexity of the separate areas at the Janesville Disposal Facility sites required
extensive study into the extent of contamination prior to the selection of final cleanup
remedies. These investigations have resulted in the selection of final remedies for all the
areas of contamination, with actual cleanup activities scheduled to begin soon.
Site Repository
Janesville Public Library, 316 South Main Street, Janesville, WI 53545
JANESVILLE ASH BEDS
May 1994
-------
JANESVILLE
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPA ID#WID980614044
EPA REGION 5
Rock County
Janesville
Other Names:
Janesville Disposal Facilities
Site Description
The 18-acre Janesville Old Landfill site is on a 65-acre parcel of land that contains four
different sites: the Janesville Ash Beds (JAB), the Old Dump Site (1963 site), the Janesville
Old Landfill (1978 site), and the New Landfill (1985 site). All four sites have been combined
and called the Janesville Disposal Facility (JDF) and are being addressed jointly under
CERCLA and RCRA. The new landfill and the JAB are RCRA interim status sites. While
the JAB and Old Landfill are on the NPL. The City of Janesville is the owner of the
properties and has operated land disposal activities at the sites since the 1950s. The Janesville
Old Landfill site is an abandoned sand and gravel pit that was used as a municipal sanitary
landfill beginning in 1963. Industrial drummed wastes including solvents, used oils, paints,
paint thinners, and other industrial wastes were accepted drummed for disposal. The site also
received the sludge-ash mixture when the ash beds at the Janesville Ash Beds were cleaned
out. The landfill does not have any bottom or side liners, but was covered with clay-type
material when it reached capacity in 1978. The landfill does not have a leachate collection
system or clay liner. The City of Janesville has a population of approximately 51,000 people.
Residential areas are located within a few hundred feet of the Janesville disposal facilities.
The Rock River is 1,500 feet west of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
ZLAJ
Methane gas from the decomposing material stored in the landfill has been
detected in the air at the site. Groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals including arsenic, barium, lead, iron, and
manganese. Soils are contaminated with various VOCs and heavy metals including
manganese and cadmium. Surface water in the Rock River contains low levels of
VOCs. Contaminated groundwater is not considered a health threat because no
private drinking water wells are contaminated or appear to be threatened. Small
amounts of contaminants in the Rock River and the on-site pond and the air pose
a very low health risk. Contaminated soil and groundwater may pose a health
threat through accidental ingestion or direct contact.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the Old
Landfill site.
Response Action Status
Old Landfill Site: The parties potentially responsible for site contamination,
under EPA monitoring, completed a study of all of the Janesville Disposal Sites.
The EPA selected a remedy for the Janesville Old Landfill and the related
groundwater contamination in 1989 which includes: access and land use restrictions;
installation of a landfill gas extraction and flaring system that may later be converted into an
energy converting system; construction of a landfill cap, tying the Old Landfill cap into the
cap being constructed for the New Landfill; continued monitoring of the groundwater and air;
deed and groundwater-use restrictions between the facility and the Rock River; installation of
groundwater extraction wells to protect the Rock River from migrating contaminants; and
development of a groundwater treatment system using an air stripper to remove VOCs. The
potentially responsible parties began designing the remedies in mid-1991. The cleanup is
expected to begin in 1994.
Site Facts: In 1986, the EPA, the State, and the parties potentially responsible for site
contamination reached an agreement, whereby the parties conducted an investigation of the
nature and extent of contamination at the Janesville Disposal sites. (For further information
on the JAB, Old Dump Site, and New Landfill, see the separate listing under Janesville Ash
Beds.)
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Janesville Old Landfill site while
the selected cleanup activities are being designed.
Site Repository
Janesville Public Library, 316 South Main Street, Janesville, WI 53545
May 1994 JANESVILLE OLD LANDFILL
-------
KOHLER CO
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID006073225
EPA REGION 5
Sheboygan County
Kohler
Site Description
The Kohler Company Landfill is an 82-acre site, 40 acres of which have been used as a
landfill since the 1950s, primarily for the disposal of foundry and manufacturing wastes
produced by Kohler's manufacturing facilities. Between 1950 and the mid-1970s, at least four
pits were constructed for the disposal of hydraulic oils, solvents, paint wastes, enamel powder,
lint from brass polishing, and plating sludges. Oils commonly were used for dust control. Since
1980, all Federally regulated wastes have been shipped off site for disposal. In 1977 and 1981,
sludges from the two wastewater settling lagoons were buried at the site. The landfill was not
originally scheduled to close until 2035; however, the State landfill license is being modified,
and the closure of the landfill will occur much sooner. Approximately 1,600 people live within
3 miles of the landfill. The nearest residence is 1/4 mile away. The Sheboygan River is within
300 feet of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with various volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
heavy metals, phenols, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Runoff water
and sediments contain heavy metals, phenols, and PAHs. Leachate samples
contained VOCs and heavy metals. Waste samples from the landfill contain VOCs,
phenols, PAHs, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and heavy metals. People who
come in direct contact with or accidentally ingest contaminated groundwater or
leachate may be at risk. Workers or trespassers who ingest, inhale, or come in
direct contact with contaminants contained in the landfill wastes could be at risk.
Groundwater and leachate discharge into the Sheboygan River, some of the
contaminants may accumulate in the river sediments and may have detrimental
May 1994
-------
effects on aquatic life that come in contact with the sediment.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on source control and
management of groundwater.
Response Action Status
Source Control: In 1985, the Kohler Company, under monitoring by the EPA
and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), began
investigating the contamination at the site. The EPA selected a remedy for the
site in early 1992. The remedy calls for closing the currently operating landfill, installing a
multi-layer soil cap over the landfill, issuing zoning and access restrictions, and collecting
contaminated leachate on site via a perimeter drain. Design of the selected remedy began in
mid-1992 and is expected to be completed in 1995.
Groundwater Management: The Kohler Company is conducting a feasibility
study of potential ground water remedies. A proposed plan recommending a
remedy is planned to be released for public comment in early 1995, with a final
decision to follow. WDNR is the "lead agency" for this phase of the project.
Site Facts: In 1985, the EPA, the State, and the Kohler Company signed an Administrative
Order on Consent, whereby the company agreed to study the type and extent of
contamination at the site. The company also agreed to assess potential and actual risks to
public health and the environment and to evaluate potential cleanup alternatives.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Kohler Company Landfill site
while cleanup design actions and further investigations continue.
Site Repository
Kohler Public Library, 230 School Street, Kohler, WI 53044
May 1994 KOHLER COMPANY LANDFILL
-------
LEMBERGEF^F
LANDFILL, ^
WISCONSIN
EPAID# WID98090124
EPA REGION 5
Manitowoc County
Whitelaw
Other Names:
Lemberger Fly Ash Landfill
Site Description
The 21-acre Lemberger Landfill, Inc. site is located approximately 1/4 mile from Lemberger
Transport and Recycling, also an NPL site. The two sites operated under the same license
from 1970 through 1976. The Township of Franklin used the site, an old gravel pit, as an
open dump from 1940 to 1970. Lemberger Landfill, Inc. operated the site as a sanitary landfill
under a license from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) from 1969
to 1976. From 1976 to 1977, Wettencamp and Brunner Excavating Company transported fly
ash from Manitowoc Public Utilities to the Lemberger facility. An estimated 1,750 to 2,500
cubic yards of fly ash were disposed of monthly. Past WDNR inspections showed that
Lemberger used fly ash and bottom ash as cover, instead of burying them along with the
refuse. In 1980, following complaints by local residents that landfill leachate had seeped onto
their properties, the WDNR investigated and tried to get the site owners to address
contamination problems at the landfill. Lemberger Landfill, Inc. filed for bankruptcy in 1983.
In 1985, volatile organic compound (VOC) contamination was found in seven residential wells
at levels that exceeded standards. New, deeper wells were provided to residents with
contaminated wells. Sampling from the new wells in 1985 showed no contamination. Part of
the site is bordered by a marsh. Wetland vegetation occupies low-lying areas of the site. The
nearby Branch River is used for swimming, fishing, and canoeing, and the area commonly is
used for hunting. Approximately 2,700 people live within 3 miles of the site. The residents
depend on public and private wells within 3 miles of the site as a source of drinking water.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with VOCs including vinyl chloride and
methylene chloride. Surface water is contaminated with phenols, VOCs, and heavy
metals including cadmium and lead. Surface soils contain VOCs, semi-volatile
organic compounds, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and inorganic
compounds. Subsurface soils contain VOCs and inorganics. Potential health threats
exist if contaminated groundwater or soil is ingested or directly contacted.
Contaminants have entered the food chain; therefore, ingesting milk or livestock
and fish taken from the river also may be a potential health threat. Exposure to
contaminants may occur when coming into direct contact with polluted surface
water. The site is neither fenced nor posted with signs to restrict access.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
This 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: New wells were drilled to provide water to residences with
contaminated wells.
Entire Site: In 1984, the EPA sampled monitoring wells and leachate at the site.
The results showed elevated levels of several contaminants. In 1987, the EPA
began an investigation to determine the extent and nature of contamination and to
identify cleanup alternatives. A draft investigation report was completed in 1990. In 1991, the
EPA selected the final remedies to clean-up the site which include groundwater extraction,
treatment, and discharge into the Branch River. Also recommended are groundwater
monitoring, temporary groundwater use restrictions, and control of landfill waste by capping
the landfill and containing contaminated groundwater inside a slurry wall. Design activities
are to be completed in 1994.
Site Facts: In 1982, Lemberger signed a Consent Order with the WDNR that required
identification of the source of leachate controls, followed by groundwater monitoring. Drilling
and testing were done until the owner filed for bankruptcy. In 1992, EPA and WDNR
entered into a Consent Decree (CD) with a group of PRPs for the implementation of the
selected cleanup action.
Environmental Progress
By providing an alternate water supply to affected residents, potential for exposure to
contaminants in the groundwater has been reduced while final cleanup remedies are being
planned at the Lemberger Landfill, Inc. site.
Site Repository
Manitowoc Public Library, 808 Hamilton Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220
Whitelaw Village Hall, 232 E. Menasha Avenue, Whitelaw, WI
Franklin Town Chairman Steve Brooks Home/Office, Route 1, Box 293 A,
Whitelaw, WI
May 1994
LEMBERGER LANDFILL, INC.
-------
LEMBERGER
TRANSPORT
RECYCLING
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID056247208
EPA REGION 5
Manitowoc County
f Whitelaw
Site Description
The 16-acre Lemberger Transport and Recycling site operated as an unlined landfill from
1970 to 1976. From 800,000 to 1 million gallons of tars and paint sludges were buried at the
site. Heavy metals and phenols have leached into groundwater. Large quantities of aluminum
dust also are buried on the site, as are polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the cleanup of
a spill. In 1976, the site was closed and covered with 1 foot of clay. Between 1976 and 1980,
additional clay covering was added. The owner of the farms adjoining the landfill has plowed
portions of the site, exposing bulk wastes and drums. In 1985, the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources (WDNR) sampled residential wells in the area and found contamination.
This site is located less than 1/4 mile away from the Lemberger Landfill, also a National
Priorities List site. Lemberger Transport and Recycling and the Lemberger Landfill, Inc.
operated under the same license. The Branch River, 1/2 mile west of the site, is used for
swimming, fishing, and canoeing. Hunting occurs in the area, and site access is unrestricted.
Approximately 2,700 individuals live within 3 miles of the site and obtain their potable water
supply from a shallow aquifer.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater underlying the site has been shown to be contaminated with
various volatile organic compounds (VOCs); phenols; and heavy metals including
lead, chromium, and aluminum. Soil contamination includes VOCs, semi-volatile
organic compounds, pesticides, PCBs, and inorganic compounds. Potential health
threats include ingesting or coming in direct contact with contaminated
groundwater or soil.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the
groundwater and source control.
Response Action Status
Groundwater: In 1987, the EPA began an investigation to determine the extent
and nature of contamination of the groundwater and to identify alternative long-
term cleanup methods. A draft investigation report was completed in late 1990. A
final groundwater remedy was selected in 1991, which includes groundwater extraction,
treatment, and discharge into the Branch River, groundwater monitoring, and temporary
groundwater use restrictions.
Source Control: In 1991, the EPA began additional studies designed to add to
the data uncovered by the site investigation begun in 1987. The study will define
the nature and extent of cleanup required to establish control over the source of
contamination. In 1993, EPA and a group of PRPs entered into a AOC for removal of
drums, soil vapor extraction of contaminated soils, and final landfill capping. AOC activities
are expected to be completed 1995.
Site Facts: In 1982, the State signed a Consent Order with Lemberger Transport and
Recycling, requiring it to report on site conditions, including an analysis of the extent of
groundwater contamination and recommendations for cleanup actions. However, the site
owners filed for bankruptcy in 1982.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Lemberger Transport and
Recycling site while investigations are taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
May 1994 LEMBERGER TRANSPORT AND RECYCLING
-------
Site Repository
Manitowoc Public Library, 808 Hamilton Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220
Whitelaw Village Hall, 232 E. Menasha Ave, Whitelaw, WI
Franklin Town Chairman Steve Brooks, Home/Office, Route 1, Box 293 A,
Whitelaw, WI
LEMBERGER TRANSPORT AND RECYCLING
May 1994
-------
MADISON
METROPOLIT
SEWERAGE
LAGOONS
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID078934403
EPA REGION 5
Dane County
Madison
Site Description
The 135-acre Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District Lagoons site is owned by the City of
Madison, which has been depositing sludge from its Nine Springs Sewer Treatment Plant in
the two lagoons since 1942. In 1970, a section of the new lagoon's dike broke, releasing
85,000 gallons of liquid from the lagoons into an old effluent channel that runs north to Nine
Springs Creek, which empties into the Yahara River. A large number of fish were killed. A
second dike broke in 1973. The lagoons are in a low-lying area bordered by wetlands.
Approximately 94,000 people reside near the site and obtain drinking water from wells within
3 miles of the site. A mobile home park of about 250 units is located 1,000 feet from 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: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
The sludge in the lagoons is contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
and is a potential health concern to people living near the site. People working on
the cropland where sludge is applied may be exposed to PCBs. Hunting occurs in
the wetlands adjacent to the site. The lagoons are feeding areas for many species
of waterfowl. In addition, surface water in the old effluent channel is tainted from
the PCB-contaminated sludge.
May 1994
-------
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: The potentially responsible parties are conducting an investigation of
the site to determine the nature and extent of contamination. Alternative cleanup
remedies will be evaluated, based on the findings of this investigation.
Environmental Progress
The EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined that no immediate actions
were required at the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District Lagoons site while
investigations are being conducted and cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Madison Public Library Local Documents Section, 201 West Mifflin Street, Madison WI
59703
Madison Metropolitan Sewage District, 1610 Moorland Road, Madison, WI 53713
May 1994 MADISON METROPOLITAN
SEWERAGE DISTRICT LAGOONS
-------
MASTER DISPOS
SERVICE LAND
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980820070
EPA REGION 5
Waukesha County
City of Brookfield
Site Description
Master Disposal Service, Inc. operated a 26-acre landfill on the western edge of Brookfield.
The site was licensed by the State to receive wastes in 1977. Until early in 1982, the company
filled a portion of a wetland near the banks of the Fox River with over 668,000 cubic yards of
industrial wastes including solvents, paints, adhesives, oils, and foundry wastes. A drainage
ditch adjacent to the site runs into the Fox River. In addition to its landfill operations, the
facility also burned disposed material. No wastes have been accepted at the site since it
closed in 1982 for landfill disposal, but some wastes were accepted for burning after 1982.
State sampling established that groundwater near the site is contaminated with heavy metals
and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Approximately 10,000 people reside within 3 miles
of the site and depend on 10 municipal wells in the same area for their potable water.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with VOCs including benzene, toluene, and
xylenes and chlorinated solvents. The groundwater also is contaminated with heavy
metals such as iron, manganese, and barium. Accidental ingestion, direct contact
with, and inhalation of contaminated airborne dusts may be a potential health
threat. The site lies on a raised plateau in the middle of a wetland, which could be
contaminated from site runoff.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase directed at cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: Some of the potentially responsible parties completed an
investigation in 1990 to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to
identify alternatives for site cleanup. Based on the results of the investigation, the
EPA selected a cleanup strategy which includes the following: capping the site with a soil
cover; installing appropriate gas venting; installing a groundwater pump and treat system; and
determining the extent of wetlands and planning for their protection or restoration during site
cleanup. The design of these technologies began in mid-1991. Cleanup activities are expected
to begin in 1994, when all design activities are expected to be completed. After a two-year
period of implementation, the EPA will re-evaluate this strategy to determine whether further
enhancement is necessary to fully meet cleanup goals.
Site Facts: In 1977, the State signed an agreement requiring Master Disposal Service to
develop and implement a proper site abandonment plan.
Environmental Progress
The EPA performed preliminary evaluations at the Master Disposal Service Landfill site and
determined that the site does not pose an immediate threat to the surrounding population or
the environment while design of the cleanup remedies is underway.
Site Repository
Brookfield Public Library, 1900 Calhoun Road, Brookfield, WI 53005
May 1994
MASTER DISPOSAL SERVICE LANDFILL
-------
MID-STATE DIS
INC. LANDFIL
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980823082
L,
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Marathon County
4 miles northeast of
the Village of Stratford
The Mid-State Disposal, Inc. Landfill (MSD) site is a 160-acre parcel of land located four
miles northeast of Stratford and 18 miles southwest of Wausau. The site includes the 35-acre
"Old Mound" landfill, the 5-acre "Interim Expansion" area, and a 3-acre sludge lagoon. All
three are covered with soil and vegetation. MSD conducted landfilling operations from 1970
to 1979, receiving municipal, industrial, and commercial wastes, as well as construction and
demolition debris. These wastes included paper mill sludges, asbestos dust, solvents, pesticides,
paint sludges, and metals. Over the years, the covers of the Old Mound landfill, the Interim
Expansion area, and the sludge lagoon have been improperly maintained. Numerous
environmental problems and permit violations were noted by the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources (WDNR) during a site inspection in 1974, while evaluating whether MSD
was in compliance with the newly enacted State Solid Waste Disposal Regulations. In early
1977, the WDNR approved a plan to close the Old Mound landfill. Later that year, MSD
was fined for improper closure of the landfill, and another order was issued. A leachate
containment pond on the western edge of the site ruptured, releasing 150,000 to 200,000
gallons of leachate into Rock Creek during the late 1970s. In 1979, a lawsuit was filed by the
State, ceasing operations at the site. The Weyerhaeuser Company, a generator of waste
disposed at the facility, agreed to properly close the site in 1979. The pond leachate was
removed, and the three waste disposal areas were covered. Leachate collection systems were
installed in late 1979 for both the sludge lagoon and the interim expansion area; only the
leachate collected from the latter has been removed and treated off site. The site is
surrounded by abandoned railroad tracks; two sludge disposal lagoons owned by
Weyerhaeuser, Inc. on the northeast; and private property on the east. Ten residences are
located within a 1-mile radius of the site. Most land near the site is devoted to dairy and cash
crop farming, though a few small businesses are scattered throughout the area. Surface water
from west of the Old Mound landfill drains to an unnamed tributary of Rock Creek, and
surface water from east of the Old Mound landfill drains to an unnamed tributary of the Big
Eau Pleine River.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Several heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including benzene,
vinyl chloride, and methylene chloride have been detected in the groundwater.
Leachate samples contain metals and VOCs above drinking water standards. On-
site samples taken from the sludge lagoon, Interim Expansion area, and the Old
Mound landfill are contaminated with heavy metals. Samples containing VOCs
were collected from the tributary to Rock Creek. Soil samples from an area along
the western edge of the site are contaminated with heavy metals, phthalates
(plastic by-products), and dieldrin (a pesticide). One off-site sample taken near a
tributary to Rock Creek contained iron and copper at concentrations exceeding
Federal water quality standards designed to protect aquatic animals. Direct contact
with and accidental ingestion of contaminated soil, surface water, groundwater,
leachate, or sediments may pose risks to public health and aquatic organisms.
Nearby wildlife potentially is threatened by site contaminants.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the
entire site and supplying an alternative water supply.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1988, the EPA selected the following cleanup actions: imposing
deed restrictions on the site to ensure that future site owners do not cause new
releases from the site by building on or excavating soil from the site (restrictions
also would be placed on large off-site groundwater withdrawals in the site vicinity to prevent
the use of contaminated groundwater); constructing a fence around the site to prevent
potential trespassing; reconstructing on-site roads to accommodate truck traffic during the
cleanup; groundwater, surface water, and residential well monitoring to evaluate the
effectiveness of the cleanup actions; landfill gas monitoring; off-site groundwater
monitoring; providing an alternate water supply for nearby residences; improving surface
water drainage; leachate and ponded water collection and off-site treatment; institutional
controls to prevent well installation on site; solidifying sludge to reduce water content in it
and capping the sludge lagoon to reduce rainfall seepage into the sludge lagoon; and,
constructing new soil covers and a landfill gas collection system at the Old Mound and
Interim Expansion area. Under EPA monitoring, the parties potentially responsible for the
site contamination began designing the cleanup activities in 1989. A pre-design study has been
conducted to characterize the cap and the lagoon, as well as to install additional monitoring
wells to determine whether the lower aquifer is contaminated. The design of these cleanup
activities was completed in March 1993. Construction will begin in April 1994.
Alternative Water Supply: In 1989, the potentially responsible parties began
evaluating the feasibility and necessity of a AWS and is planned to be completed
in late 1994.
May 1994 MID-STATE DISPOSAL, INC. LANDFILL
-------
Site Facts: In 1980, a group of citizens filed suit against Mid-State Disposal, Inc.,
Weyerhaeuser, and the WDNR for past improper handling and disposal of hazardous waste
at the site.
Environmental Progress
The EPA performed preliminary evaluations and determined that the site does not pose an
imminent threat to the nearby community or the environment while the designs of final
cleanup remedies are being completed at the Mid-State Disposal, Inc. Landfill site.
The landfills have been capped and a leachate collection system and gas extraction system
installed thus greatly reducing contamination releases from these areas.
Site Repository
Marathon County Library, 300 Larch Street, Stratford, WI 54484
MID-STATE DISPOSAL, INC. LANDFILL
May 1994
-------
MOSS-AMERI
(KERR-MCGE
OIL CO.)
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID039052626
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Milwaukee County
Milwaukee
Other Names:
Kerr McGee Chem. Corp. Forest
Prod. Div.
The 88-acre Moss-American site is located in northwestern Milwaukee. Operations at the site
began in 1921, when the Moss Tie Company began to treat railroad ties with creosote, a
wood preservative. The site operated from 1921 until 1976, when it was closed by Kerr-
McGee, a former owner. During the facility's period of operation, liquid wastes were
discharged to settling ponds that drained into the Little Menomonee River. Between 1963
and 1965, the Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation purchased both companies and formed the
Moss-American Company. Contamination at the site was first reported during the late 1960s.
In 1971, several people received creosote-related chemical burns from wading in the Little
Menomonee River. The EPA filed an injunction against Kerr-McGee in 1974, ordering the
cleanup of contaminated river sediments. Following the site's closing in 1976, the EPA
continued to investigate the site and to gather evidence for its suit. The case, however, was
dismissed in 1978 because of erroneous field data. Milwaukee County dropped its pending
lawsuit against Kerr-McGee that same year in exchange for 65 acres of the site. Kerr-McGee
sold the remaining 23 acres of the site to the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad Company
in 1980. The site is surrounded by a mixture of urban and rural uses. The railroad company
now uses the parcel as an automobile loading and storage area. Total population within a 1-
mile radius of the site is estimated at 9,500 people, all of whom depend on public wells for
drinking water. The Little Menomonee River crosses the site area and is used for
recreational purposes.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
L\
Groundwater samples have shown elevated levels of volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Free-standing creosote or
an oil sheen was observed in three monitoring well samples; similar observations
were noted in eight test pits. The primary contaminants detected in the river
sediments are PAHs. Contaminants found in the soil in the processing area and
vicinity, the treated wood storage area, and the northeast and southeast landfills
include PAHs and BTX compounds, both components of creosote. PAHs were
detected in a ditch that drains water from the site to the river. The Little
Menomonee River has been negatively impacted by surface water runoff and
sediments from the site. Potential health risks exist for individuals inhaling
volatilized chemicals or ingesting or making direct contact with the contaminated
sediments, soil, groundwater, or surface water.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: interim actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: Contaminated sediment along 1,700 feet of the riverbed
adjacent to the site was excavated and landfilled near the northeastern corner of
the site. In 1973, the EPA financed the dredging of approximately 5,000 feet of
the river. The plant facilities were demolished in 1978, and some oil-saturated soil was
excavated and shipped to the Nuclear Engineering Landfill in Sheffield, Illinois.
Entire Site: The EPA completed an investigation in 1990 to identify the key
physical features of the site, to locate on-site sources of creosote and other
contaminants or hazardous wastes, and to determine the extent of contaminated
soil, groundwater, and river sediment. Based on the results of this investigation, the EPA has
selected remedies for cleanup, which include rerouting the Little Menomonee River, pumping
and treating contaminated groundwater, and a combination of soil washing and
bioremediation using bacterial organisms. Approximately 86,500 cubic yards of soil and
sediment will be treated. The design of these technologies began in 1991 and is expected to
be completed in 1995.
May 1994 MOSS-AMERICAN (KERR-MCGEE OIL CO.)
-------
Environmental Progress
By removing contaminated sediment from the Little Menomonee River, the EPA has reduced
the potential for exposure to hazardous materials in the river while the final cleanup remedies
are being designed for the Moss-American site.
Site Repository
Mill Road Library, 6431 North 76th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53223
MOSS-AMERICAN (KERR-MCGEE OIL CO.)
May 1994
-------
MUSKEGO SAN
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPAID#WID000713180
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
f Waukesha County
Muskego
Other Names:
Wauer Landfill
The 56-acre Muskego Sanitary Landfill site is a former rendering plant with associated
wastewater lagoons located northeast of the site. The site is defined by three areas known as
the Old Fill, the Non Contiguous Fill and the Southeast Fill area. Prior to landfill operations,
the site was run as a farm by the Alfred Wauer family. The Wauers, who also ran the off-site
animal rendering plant and associated waste lagoons, used an inactive sand and gravel pit
located on the farm for the disposal of animal carcasses and blood. The quarry pit evolved
into an open dump, and in 1954, Mr. Wauer obtained a permit from the City of Muskego.
The Old Fill was operated as a public dumping ground. During the 1960s, the Wauers
allegedly accepted waste oils and paint products. Drums were emptied at or near the Old Fill
and their contents were burned in open fires. In 1969, Acme Disposal, a subsidiary of Waste
Management of Wisconsin, Inc. (WMWI), leased the property and continued operations at
the dump. The Old Fill was licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
(WDNR) in 1971 as a sanitary landfill. In 1975, the WDNR determined that the quality of
groundwater was deteriorating in the vicinity of the site and subsequently ordered WMWI to
cap and close the Old Fill. By 1976, the landfill had been renamed the Muskego Sanitary
Landfill and was operated directly by WMWI. The Southeast fill was approved as a sanitary
landfill by the WDNR in 1977 and remained active until it was filled to capacity and closed in
1981. Groundwater contamination was discovered in 1982 when the WDNR reviewed data in
response to a request from WMWI for approval to do repair work on both fill areas. The
Town of Waukesha, with a population of 51,000, is to the east of the landfill. The Fox River
and associated wetlands are in the area.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater underlying the site has been shown to be contaminated with volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals including lead and chromium from
landfill wastes. Potential health risks exist for individuals who drink the
contaminated groundwater. The wetlands also may be threatened.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on the removal of on-site waste and cleanup of the groundwater.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1982, the WDNR found elevated levels of contaminants in
four residential wells. The four affected homes were purchased by WMWI. In
1985, the City of Muskego created a public water utility and constructed a system
to serve area homes that may have been using contaminated wells. Approximately 19,820
pounds of liquid solvents and 1,735 tons of contaminated soil and old drums were removed
from the site by the potentially responsible parties in the spring of 1990.
On-Site Waste: Under EPA monitoring, WMWI initiated an investigation in
1987 to determine the nature and extent of contamination at the site and to
identify alternative cleanup methods. The EPA will evaluate the results of
geophysical surveying, groundwater monitoring, test pit and soil sampling, and private well
sampling, and expects to select the final cleanup strategy for site contamination by the end of
1994.
Groundwater: In 1987, the potentially responsible parties began a study to
determine the nature and extent of groundwater contamination and to identify
cleanup alternatives. The study was completed in 1992.
Site Facts: WMWI entered into an agreement to finance and conduct the investigation at
the site. The Administrative Order was signed in 1987 by WMWI, the EPA, and the WDNR.
In December 1992, a Unilateral Administrative Order (UAO) was issued to WMWI and over
40 other potentially responsible parties to implement the source control operable unit remedy.
This work is expected to be completed at the end of 1994.
Environmental Progress
The purchase of the four homes with contaminated wells and construction of a public water
supply have reduced the potential for exposure to contaminated groundwater while site
studies are being conducted and cleanup activities are being planned at the Muskego Sanitary
Landfill site.
Site Repository
Muskego Public Library, South 8200 Racine Avenue, Muskego, WI 53150
May 1994 MUSKEGO SANITARY LANDFILL
-------
NATIONAL PRES
INDUSTRIES, IN
WISCONSIN
EPAID#WID006196174
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Eau Claire County and
Chippewa County
Eau Claire
The 325-acre National Presto Industries (NPI) site originally was owned by the U.S.
Government and operated by government contractors as a small arms loading plant and
manufacturing facility for radar tubes during the 1940s. NPI purchased the property in 1947
and has maintained sole ownership of the facility. From 1948 until 1954, NPI manufactured
consumer goods at the site. During the latter part of this period, the facility also was used for
defense-related activities, including manufacturing fuses for the Army and parts for military
aircraft. Between 1954 and 1980, NPI has dedicated the plant to the production of artillery
shell parts under contracts with the Army. Manufacturing operations at the facility ceased in
1980. The facility currently is inactive, and the Army has decided not to renew the annual
standby contract with the National Defense Corporation which, in the past, has maintained
the facility in a state of readiness for the Army. Wastewater generated at the facility
originally was discharged to seven on-site seepage pits. By 1952, the seepage pits could no
longer handle the high volume of water flow from the plant, and the wastewater was pumped
to a former sand and gravel pit, which may have been used as a disposal area before 1948.
From 1967 to 1969, wastewater lagoons were constructed to provide additional disposal
capacity. Up to 2 1/2 million gallons of wastewater were discharged into the lagoons each day.
Between 1966 and 1969, wastes containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were disposed
of in one of the lagoons and in an area northeast of the plant known as the Melby Road site.
In 1986, an additional disposal area was discovered on the eastern end of the NPI property
line, following a complaint to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR).
Drums containing a variety of waste materials were found and later were removed and stored
on an unused loading dock at the plant by NPI. The City of Eau Claire has a population of
53,400 people. Many nearby residences used private wells before permenent alternate
drinking water supplies were provided in 1992. The Eau Claire Municipal Well Field, another
site on the National Priorities List (NPL), is located within 3 miles of the site. Site
investigations have shown the National Presto site to be the source of contamination at the
Eau Claire site. A single continuous plume extends from waste disposal areas at the National
Presto site to the Eau Claire site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soils are contaminated with various VOCs and heavy metals.
Low levels of VOCs were detected in Lake Hallie, approximately 1 mile north of
the site. Potential health threats include accidentally ingesting or coming in direct
contact with contaminated soil or groundwater. Access to the main plant area is
restricted by fencing and is checked by security guards throughout the day and
night. Access to the remainder of the site is not restricted, although much of the
site is surrounded by a fence.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed through a removal effort and three operable units: removal of the
wastes in lagoon #1 by pumping began in October 1993 and will be complete by mid 1994;
the first operable unit (OU #1) consisted of extracting, treating and discharging groundwater
to the Chippewa River; the second operable unit (OU #2) consisted of the construction of a
permanent drinking water supply, and the third operable unit (OU #3) will consist of the
cleanup of contamination sources. Construction of OU #1 was completed in February 1994
and operations began in March 1994. Construction of OU #2 was completed in early 1992
and the system began operations shortly thereafter. Selected remedies for OU #3 will be
selected in early 1995 after completion of the Feasibility Study.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1989, NPI began providing bottled water to Town of
Hallie and City of Eau Claire residences and businesses whose wells were
contaminated or threatened by contamination from the NPI site. Permanent
alternate drinking water supplies became fully operational in early 1992, and the bottled
water program has been discontinued. Fences were erected around the property boundaries
of the Melby Road Disposal Site and the East Disposal Site in order to discourage access.
Removal of the wastes in lagoon #1 by pumping began in October 1993 and will be
completed by mid 1994. The wastes are being recycled as an alternative fuel.
Source Control and Groundwater: Under EPA monitoring, NPI initiated an
investigation to determine the nature and extent of site contamination and to
evaluate alternatives for source control and groundwater cleanup. In late 1991, the
EPA selected a remedy for on-site contaminated groundwater that includes extracting,
treating, and discharging groundwater to the Chippewa River. The EPA began construction
of the extraction wells to contain the plume in mid-1992. Construction was completed in
February 1994 and the remedy was operational in March 1994. Alternatives under
consideration for source areas include soil vapor extraction, consolidation and capping, and
recycling some of the waste materials as an alternative fuel.
1994 NATIONAL PRESTO INDUSTRIES, INC.
-------
Permanent Water Supply: In 1991, the City of Eau Claire and the Hallie
Sanitary District began construction of permanent water supply hookups to serve
the area affected by contaminated groundwater. These actions, funded by NPI,
were completed in early 1992.
Site Facts: In 1986, NPI signed a Consent Order with the EPA and the State to conduct an
investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination at the site and to identify
alternative cleanup remedies. A Unilateral Order was issued in 1989 for bottled water to be
distributed to affected residents. An additional 1991 Unilateral Order was issued, requiring
NPI to distribute drinking water supplies to affected residences and businesses near the site.
A Unilateral Order was issued in mid-1992, requiring NPI to construct the remedy for on-site
plume containment. An Administrative Order by Consent was issued in October 1993 for the
removal of wastes in lagoon #1. The remedial investigation for the cleanup of contamination
sources is scheduled for completion in mid 1994 and completion of the feasibility study for
OU #3 is anticipated in early 1995.
Environmental Progress
The replacement drinking water systems are fully operational and provide a safe water supply.
The pump and threat remedy for on-site containment of contaminated groundwater was
constructed and operational in March 1994. Pumping of lagoon #1 began in October 1993
and should be completed by June 1994. Additional investigations have determined the extent
of contamination, and alternatives including Soil Vapor Extraction and Low Temperature
Thermal Desorption are currently being evaluated to address further contamination cleanup
at the National Presto site.
Site Repository
Chippewa Falls Public Library, 105 West Central Road, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
Hallie Town Hall, Route 9, 957 Hagen Road, Chippewa Falls, WI
NATIONAL PRESTO INDUSTRIES, INC.
May 1994
-------
NORTHERN
ENGRAVIN
COMPANY
WISCONSIN
EPA ID#WID006183826
EPA REGION 5
Monroe County
Sparta
Site Description
The Northern Engraving Company (NEC) owns and operates a manufacturing facility at this
site. The company produces metal nameplates, dials, and decorative trim for the auto
industry. Four separate areas of contamination at the NEC facility have been identified,
including the sludge lagoon, seepage pit, sludge dump site, and lagoon drainage ditch. The
contaminants found in these areas were from past wastewater treatment and disposal
practices used at the site. Since the 1960s, wastewaters and by-products of the metal finishing
process have been treated on site. An on-site wastewater treatment lagoon was installed in
1967. Rinse water from the plant was collected and treated with sodium hydroxide for
precipitation to metal hydroxide solids. The treated rinse water was discharged to the sludge
lagoon to allow solids to settle. The treated lagoon effluent was discharged to the LaCrosse
River by way of a storm drainage ditch. Between 1968 and 1976, the sludge lagoon
accumulated solids from the treated wastewater. On two occasions, sludge was removed from
the lagoon and landfllled in an on-site dump area. The sludge lagoon eventually was removed
from service in 1980, and an on-site seepage pit was used to neutralize spent acid waste. The
pit was removed from service, filled with clean material, and graded in 1981. A new
aboveground wastewater treatment system was installed in 1976 and modified in 1984. The
nearby LaCrosse River is used for recreational activities.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
The on-site drainage ditch was contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE), a
volatile organic compound, from metal finishing wastes. Groundwater and sludge
were contaminated with heavy metals including copper, chromium, iron, zinc,
nickel, and fluoride. Site cleanup has eliminated the potential for health risks.
Cleanup Approach
This site was addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1988, under EPA monitoring, the parties potentially responsible
for the contamination excavated and solidified approximately 4,400 cubic yards of
sludge and soil, installed a cover over the lagoon to prevent further site
contamination, imposed access and deed restrictions on the seepage pit property, and
implemented groundwater monitoring. A full year of groundwater sampling has been
completed, and results indicate that contamination levels have been reduced as a result of the
surface cleanup. Further groundwater monitoring will be continued on a quarterly basis until
a baseline for water quality for the area can be established for purposes of comparison. Once
the baseline is established, the monitoring will be conducted semi-annually. The need for
further monitoring will be evaluated in 5 years.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree was signed by the potentially responsible parties, the EPA,
and the State, under which the company conducted investigative and site cleanup activities.
Environmental Progress
The removal activities described above have addressed surface wastes and contaminated
material and have halted further groundwater impacts. The Northern Engraving Company
site no longer poses a threat to human health or the environment.
May 1994 NORTHERN ENGRAVING COMPANY
-------
Site Repository
Sparta Public Library, West Main & Court Streets, Sparta, WI 54656
NORTHERN ENGRAVING COMPANY
May 1994
-------
N.W. MAUTHE
COMPANY, INC
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID083290981
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Outagamie County
Appleton
The 2-acre N.W. Mauthe Company, Inc. site operated as a chromium electroplating facility
from 1946 to 1976. The building was leased during this time by Wisconsin Chromium
Corporation. Norbert Mauthe had owned the facility since 1966, and the property is now
being managed by his estate. The facility was a generator of hazardous waste, which has
severely contaminated the site with chromium. The chromium leaked through the floor and
from a vent directly onto the ground. The EPA conducted tests in 1985 and detected
chromium and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) in the soil and groundwater. In 1982,
contaminated groundwater from the site entered the basement of a home and was discharged
to storm sewers that lead to the Fox River, 1/2 mile from the site. The river drains into Lake
Winnebago, which provides drinking water to 60,000 people. The river flows toward the City
of Green Bay and empties into the Green Bay. Approximately 11,000 people obtain drinking
water from public and private wells within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility: This 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
zra
Groundwater and soils contain various VOCs and heavy metals including
chromium. People who come in direct contact with or accidentally ingest
contaminated groundwater or soil may be at risk. If contaminants leach into the
river or lake, wildlife in or around the water may be harmed.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
May 1994
-------
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1982, the State installed a system to collect shallow
groundwater, preventing puddles from forming. A portion of the site was covered
with asphalt to limit rainwater from coming into contact with the contaminated
soil. Removal action consisted of installing fencing, decontaminating the building and
excavating and temporarily storing grossly contaminated soils.
Entire Site: The State has completed an investigation to determine the extent of
groundwater and soil contamination at the site. The Record of Decision (ROD)
was signed March 3, 1994. The ROD calls for removal of most contaminated soil
and groundwater collection, treatment and discharge into the sanitary sewer, and building
demolition. The Remedial Design is in progress with CH2M Hill.
Environmental Progress
Initial actions to install a shallow groundwater collection system and paving a portion of the
site with asphalt have reduced the potential for migration of contaminants from the N.W.
Mauthe Company, Inc. site while studies are underway and cleanup activities are being
planned.
Site Repository
Appleton Public Library, 225 North Oneida Street, Appleton, WI 54911
May 1994 N.W. MAUTHE COMPANY, INC.
-------
OCONOMOWO
ELECTROPLA
COMPANY,
WISCONSIN
EPA ID#WID006100275
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Dodge County
Ashippin
The 5-acre Oconomowoc Electroplating Company, Inc. site is adjacent to Davy Creek and
300 acres of wetlands. The shop was in operation from 1957 to 1992, using heavy metals in
electroplating operations. The wastes generated from the process were discharged into the
adjacent wetlands. Degreasing operations also were performed in conjunction with the
process. In 1972, the company built two unlined settling lagoons to increase wastewater
treatment capacity. Sludges accumulated in the lagoons and some were removed throughout
the 1970s. During this time, the company constructed a wastewater treatment plant.
Inefficient operation of the lagoons and the treatment plant, as well as discharges of
untreated wastewater, have resulted in an accumulation of metal sludge in a wetland adjacent
to Davy Creek, a tributary to the Rock River a mile downstream of the site. The unlined
lagoons, chemical spills, and plant operations also may have contaminated the groundwater in
the area. Plating wastes ate through the concrete waste troughs in the plant floor and seeped
out of the ground near the plant walls. Drums of wastes leaked on site, and sludges spilled
from lagoon impoundments. Approximately 1,400 people live within 3 miles of the site. The
nearest house is 150 feet from the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals, cyanide, and volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) from electroplating activities. The wetland and creek sediment
and surface water are contaminated with heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium,
copper, and lead. The on-site soil is contaminated with heavy metals including
chromium, cadmium, copper, and arsenic. Ingesting, coming in direct contact with,
or inhaling the contaminated soil, groundwater, and creek sediments may cause a
potential health threat. In the wetlands and creek sediments the contaminants that
threaten the wetlands, and aquatic organisms could bioaccumulate pollutants in
their tissues, possibly pose a threat to anyone consuming those organisms.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: an immediate action and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the lagoons and soils and cleanup of the wetlands.
Response Action Status
Immediate Action: In 1987, the EPA installed a fence around the entire site to
restrict access. When the company declared bankruptcy in 1991 it ceased
operations. EPA emergency response then cleaned up the site, disposed of
drummed wastes and demolished the building.
Long Term Remedial Actions: Planned long term remedial actions include:
Installation and operation of a groundwater pump and treat system; lagoon clean
closure, remaining soil removal, and wetland/creek sediment excavation and
cleanup. Design work on the long term actions began in 1990 and was completed in 1993.
Design work areas are small, work has to be sequenced. First the remaining stockpiled soil
will be removed and the wetlands/creek work will be completed. This work will be completed
by the fall of 1994. The ground pump and treat system will be completed by summer 1996.
Then the lagoon water can be treated and closed by the end of 1996.
Wetlands: In 1990, the EPA began an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination in adjacent wetlands. The study was completed in late 1993.
Site Facts: In 1981, the State ordered the Oconomowoc Electroplating Company, Inc. to
restrict its discharge of heavy metals into the wetlands.
Environmental Progress
The fencing of the site has reduced the potential for exposure to contaminated materials at
the Oconomowoc Electroplating Company, Inc. site while investigations are taking place and
cleanup activities are being planned. Removal and disposal of the process building and its
associated equipment and chemicals and wastes has also reduced exposure risks.
Site Repository
F & M Bank, North 533, Highway 67, Ashippun, WI 53003
May 1994
OCONOMOWOC ELECTROPLATING
COMPANY, INC.
-------
OMEGA HILLS
NORTH LAND
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID000808568
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Washington County
Germantown
Other Names:
Germantown Landfill 1
fem. Waste Mgmt. of Wisconsin
Lauer Landfill II
The Omega Hills North Landfill Site covers 83 acres in the southeastern part of Wisconsin,
near metropolitan Milwaukee. The State of Wisconsin licensed this landfill to accept
hazardous wastes from 1977 until 1982. It is estimated that the facility accepted about 5,000
tons of hazardous waste each year. The State estimates there are now over 150,000 cubic
yards of waste on the site. This total includes 3,300 cubic yards of heavy metals and 350 cubic
yards of solvents. About 250 Wisconsin industries have used the site for hazardous waste
disposal. Large amounts of asbestos have been and still are being disposed of at the site.
More than 15 million gallons of liquid wastes were disposed of at this site each year until it
stopped accepting such wastes; this includes an estimated 6 million gallons of hazardous liquid
waste. The site stopped accepting hazardous wastes in 1982 and liquid wastes in 1983. In
1989, the site stopped accepting all wastes, and a soil cover was installed in accordance with
the WDNR Solid Waste requirements. The facility originally was built below the level of
groundwater under the site. This allows leachate to flow away from the landfill and into an
extensive network that collects the waste material before it reaches the groundwater.
However, the system for collecting leachate has not operated as it was designed, which has
resulted in 200 million gallons of liquid waste accumulating under the site. Approximately
42,000 people live within a 3-mile radius of the site. There are 874 private wells within 3 miles
of the landfill. The nearest municipal well is 1 1/2 miles away, and the nearest residences are
150 yards from the site. Several office buildings are located within 100 yards of the property.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Leachate has been migrating from the site and has contaminated the shallow
groundwater under several private wells in the area with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) including benzenes, toluene, and vinyl chloride. Leachate
contains heavy metals such as zinc, nickel, arsenic, and cadmium, as well as
phthalates, a by-product of plastic production, and VOCs including
trichloroethylene (TCE). Leachate on site also contains cyanide, gases,
petrochemicals, and pesticides. Surface water in off-site streams contains VOCs.
Individuals could be exposed to hazardous chemicals from the site by drinking
contaminated groundwater, eating crops grown with contaminated water or soil, or
by inhaling contaminated dust particles.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Currently, a number of low fences surround the site and
signs have been posted warning people not to trespass on the landfill property.
The site is closed and covered with 4 feet of compacted clay. Under State
monitoring, the owner of the site installed additional perimeter slurry or compacted clay
cut-off walls and systems to collect leachate, preventing it from entering the groundwater
under the site. The owner also installed a pre-treatment plant for the leachate and devices to
intercept and collect gases that escape from the landfill.
Entire Site: The owner of the site is conducting a study to determine the nature
and extent of contamination. Once the investigation has been completed and all
site contamination has been identified, the State will select the final cleanup
strategy for the site, possibly under authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA) rather than Superfund.
Site Facts: In 1989, the owner of the site entered into a stipulated agreement with the State
to decrease the levels of leachate under the site and to address other environmental
problems. The facility closed later that year.
1994 OMEGA HILLS NORTH LANDFILL
-------
Environmental Progress
Collecting and treating leachate, covering the landfill, and fencing and posting signs at the
site have reduced exposure to contaminants while investigations leading to the selection of
final cleanup remedies for the Omega Hills North Landfill are taking place. Most residents
are currently connected to the municipal water.
Site Repository
Not established.
OMEGA HILLS NORTH LANDFILL
May 1994
-------
ONALASKA
MUNICIPAL
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPAID# WID980821656
Site Description —
EPA REGION 5
LaCrosse County
Onalaska
The Onalaska Municipal Landfill covers 7 acres of an 11-acre parcel located in a rural,
agricultural area near residential homes and a sportsman's club. The landfill area was
originally mined as a sand and gravel quarry in the early 1960s. From 1969 to 1980, the Town
of Onalaska operated a licensed municipal landfill at the former quarry. Municipal trash and
industrial chemical wastes including naphtha, toluene, and paint residues were disposed of at
the site. Open burning also occurred until 1971, when the Wisconsin Department of Natural
Resources (WDNR) banned this practice after receiving complaints of heavy smoke and
odors. After 1971, barrels containing waste were emptied into pre-excavated holes and,
occasionally, full barrels were buried. In one case, it is alleged that 300 barrels were buried,
and in another case, it is alleged that a 500-gallon tank truck partially filled with paint
residues was buried at the site. The EPA estimates that the equivalent of 2,500 drums of
liquid wastes were disposed of at the site. The WDNR closed the landfill in 1980. Areas of
the site were capped with sand and silts. The closest residence is within 300 feet of the site,
and approximately 320 people live within a 1-mile radius of the site. The nearby Black River
is a major recreational resource for residents in the surrounding area.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
trichloroethylene (TCE) and toluene, naphtha, and barium. The groundwater in
the sand and gravel aquifer below the site is believed to be in contact with the
buried waste during times of high water. As a result of this contact, soil outside of
the landfill has been contaminated with floating petroleum and hydrocarbon
products. Chemicals in the landfill are leaching into the groundwater, which may
eventually reach an adjacent wetlands area and the nearby Black River. People
could be exposed to contaminants from the site by drinking contaminated
groundwater and by breathing in vapors that escape from contaminated
groundwater when used for washing and showering. Groundwater flows from the
site toward the upper Mississippi River Wildlife Refuge, which also borders the
Black River and Lake Onalaska. Contaminated runoff from the site could affect
these surface waters, as well as the aquatic plants and animals and wildlife residing
in these areas.
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: The Town of Onalaska placed a cap over the landfill in 1982 to
prevent seepage from spreading contaminants. A residential well was replaced due
to contamination that exceeded the Federal drinking water and State groundwater
Entire Site: Based on studies of the site involving sampling and extensive field
work, the EPA and the WDNR considered various technologies to address
contamination and chose, in a 1990 decision: in-situ bioremediation, groundwater
pump and treat, and landfill with gas venting capping to address contaminated groundwater,
and soil. The EPA began designing the cleanup approach in early 1991 and has just recently
completed this activity in late 1992. The landfill cap work was substantially completed by late
1993. The insitu bioremediation and groundwater pump and treat system is scheduled to start
in May 1994.
May 1994 ONALASKA MUNICIPAL LANDFILL
-------
Environmental Progress
Placing a new cap over the landfill and replacing a residential water well have reduced any
imminent threats of direct contact with hazardous materials while cleanup activities for the
Onalaska Landfill site are being planned. Residential well sampling and testing is ongoing.
Site Repository
LaCrosse County Public Library, Onalaska Branch, 741 Oak Avenue, South,
Onalaska, WI 54650
Administrative Records:
Holmen Library, 103 State Street, P.O. Box 539, Holmen, WI 54636
ONALASKA MUNICIPAL LANDFILL
May 1994
-------
REFUSE HID
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPAID#WID980610
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Dane County
Town of Middleton
The 23-acre Refuse Hideaway Landfill site is located in rural Dane County. This privately
owned unlined landfill received municipal, commercial, and industrial wastes between 1974
and 1988. Wastes that were disposed of at the site included full barrels of glue and paint,
spray paint booth by-products and paint stripper sludge, and spill residues containing volatile
organic compounds (VOCs). In 1988, after contaminants were detected in three private wells
southwest of the site, the landfill was closed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural
Resources (WDNR). The owner of the landfill complied with the closing order by covering
the landfill with clay and soil and then seeding the cover. The owner declared bankruptcy in
1989. WDNR investigated the site in 1990 and discovered high methane levels at the landfill
perimeter and erosion of the cap. The investigation also revealed the extent of contaminants
in groundwater. A plume of contaminated groundwater extends as far as 3,800 feet
southwest of the site. Public and private wells within 4 miles of the site provide water supplies
to an estimated 14,600 people in the area; the nearest of these wells is privately owned and
within a half mile of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State and potentially
responsible party actions.
NPL Listing History
Proposed Date: 02/07/92
Final Date: 10/14/92
Threats and Contaminants
On-site and off-site groundwater, including private wells southwest of the site, are
contaminated with various VOCs, such as vinyl chloride, tetrachloroethene,
trichloroethene, 1,1 dichloroethane and 1,2 dichloroethane. Individuals who
accidentally ingest or come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater
could be at risk.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the contaminated plume of groundwater.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1988, the landfill was closed. The owner of the landfill
covered the area with layers of clay and soil and then seeded the cover. In
response to the detection of contaminants in groundwater, two contaminated
private wells have been outfitted with treatment systems, another well was been taken out of
service, however, the WDNR continues to provide bottled water to the residence because a
business is located in another building on the property. In 1991, WDNR installed a methane
gas and leachate collection system. In the fall of 1992, WDNR completed repair of surface
erosion on the landfill cap.
Entire Site: In early 1993, under a cooperative agreement with the EPA, the
WDNR initiated Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) activities
focusing on groundwater remediation. The investigation, scheduled for completion
in late 1994, also will identify various cleanup technologies.
Environmental Progress
Immediate actions such as the installation of treatment systems on some contaminated wells
and closing other wells have reduced immediate threats posed to the safety and health of the
nearby population. Investigations are underway and activities are being planned to address
long-term cleanup of the contaminated groundwater emanating from the site.
Site Repository
Middleton Public Library, 7426 Hubbard Ave., Middleton WI
May 1994 REFUSE HIDEAWAY LANDFILL
-------
SAUK COUN
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPAID# WID980610141
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Sauk County
10 miles west of Baraboo
The 14-acre Sauk County Landfill site operated as a landfill, accepting municipal and foundry
wastes. In 1973, the County received a permit from the State to accept municipal waste,
which was hauled in from several small municipalities and placed on the site until 1983. The
landfill also accepted foundry wastes from Grede Foundry, Inc. Foundry sand formed berms
within the landfill area. An estimated 2 percent of the wastes were baghouse dusts containing
lead and cadmium. The landfill was closed in 1983, and clay was placed on the top and sides
of the facility. An EPA inspection in 1985 found that methane gas was being generated from
site wastes and that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and metals were present in on-site
monitoring wells. Approximately 900 people obtain drinking water from private wells within 3
miles of the site.
In 1991, the Sauk County entered into a contract with the State to perform a remedial
investigation and feasibility study as well as to complete source control operable unit. A
proposed plan for the source control operable unit was issued in September 1993 by the State
with plans for implementation in the summer 1994. The PRPs are also proceeding with the
remedial investigation for the groundwater contamination.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
State enforcement actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Threats and Contaminants
Soil and groundwater is contaminated with the VOCs per state and heavy metals
per state. The greatest potential health threat is drinking contaminated
groundwater or inhaling vapors from the groundwater. Inhaling air contaminated
with methane gas also is a potential health threat.
May 1994
-------
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: The landfill was closed in 1983, at which time a clay cap was
placed over it to prevent water from entering the landfill and spreading
contaminants. The source control operable unit action will include upgrading the
clay cap and installing a gas collection system.
Entire Site: The State, in cooperation with the EPA, began an investigation into
the nature and extent of soil, groundwater, and other contamination at the site in
late 1991. The remedial investigation will be completed in late 1995, at which time
the State, in cooperation with EPA will determine the appropriate response for the
groundwater operable unit.
Environmental Progress
With the initial covering of the landfill with clay and the installation/gas collection system, the
potential for hazardous materials moving into the groundwater or the surrounding area has
been reduced while investigations leading to the final selection of cleanup remedies are
underway at the Sauk County Landfill site.
Site Repository
Information Repository
Reedsburg Public Library, 345 Vine St., Reedsburg, WI
Administrative Record
Baraboo Public Library, 230 Fourth Ave., Baraboo, WI
May 1994 SAUK COUNTY LANDFILL
-------
SCHMALZ DU
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980820096
EPA REGION 5
Calumet County
Town of Harrison
Site Description
The 3/4-acre Schmalz Dump site is located on the northern shore of Lake Winnebago and
was the location of unauthorized industrial dumping during the 1960s and 1970s. The previous
site owner began filling the property in 1968. Records show that the wastes disposed of
included car bodies, stone, trees, pulp chips, mash, fly ash, bottom ash, and demolition debris.
Adjacent property to the north and west of the site also was used for waste disposal.
Reportedly, these wastes included ashes and a white sludge. Evidently, garbage was deposited
in a marshy area that once existed immediately beyond the southern property line. In 1972
and 1973, the site accepted fly ash and bottom ash from a utility company. In 1978 and 1979,
the site accepted polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-contaminated building demolition debris
that was later used to fill a wetland area. In 1979, in response to residents' complaints, the
State ordered the transportation of demolition materials to the site to cease. There are about
60 residences and businesses within 1,000 feet of the property, and the site is about 500 feet
from Lake Winnebago, a source of public water supply. All water users in the area are
connected to the Menasha water system, although some have retained wells for auxiliary
purposes. The neighboring City of Appleton, with a population of 60,000, has its drinking
water intake approximately 1,200 feet from the shore of Lake Winnebago.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals including lead and chromium.
Sediment and surface water samples collected from a pond near the disposal area
and from the drainage ditches leading into the pond indicated the presence of
PCBs, and heavy metals. Soil was contaminated with heavy metals and PCBs.
Potential health threats to people include drinking contaminated surface water and
coming into direct contact with contaminated sediments.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of soil and sediments and controlling the source of contamination.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1985, the EPA constructed a 6-foot-high security fence
and posted warning signs around the entire site boundary to restrict access.
Soil and Sediments: In 1988, the EPA completed excavating and removing
3,500 cubic yards of PCB-contaminated debris-laden soil and sediments from the
site grounds and from an on-site pond.
Source Control: The EPA completed the technical specifications for activities to
eliminate the potential for contact with contaminated soils. The selected cleanup
technologies include installation of a soil cap operation and maintenance of a
groundwater monitoring program, and implementation of a voluntary well abandonment
program for nearby wells. Construction was completed on the cap in the fall of 1993, with
seeding scheduled to occur in the spring of 1994.
Site Facts: In 1989, the EPA and one of the eight parties potentially responsible for the site
contamination reached a $2 million settlement which paid for a portion of the site cleanup
activities for the first operable unit (i.e., removal of PCB contaminatd debris). A consent
decree, entered on August 31, 1993, requires another one of the eight PRPs to pay for all
the response costs for the soil cap, which is the second operable unit.
Environmental Progress
Much of the contaminated material has been removed from the Schmalz Dump site and has
been disposed of at a federally approved facility, site clean up goals for PCB-contaminated
debris and surface water contamination were achieved at the site. Therefore, no further
cleanup actions related to the debris or surface water are needed. The construction of a soil
soil cap and a security fence surrounding the site, have reduced the potential for exposure to
hazardous materials while long-term groundwater monitoring is conducted. Consequently, all
remedial activities have been completed at the site with the exception of seeding the cap.
May 1994 SCHMALZ DUMP
-------
Site Repository
University of Wisconsin Center, Fox Valley Library, 1478 Midway Road, Menasha, WI 54952
SCHMALZ DUMP
May 1994
-------
SCRAP PROCESS
CO., INC.
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID046536785
EPA REGION 5
Taylor County
Medford
Other Names:
Potaczek Scrap Yard
Site Description
The 2-acre Scrap Processing Co. site, located approximately 1 mile northwest of Medford,
currently operates as a salvage yard. From 1955 to 1974, and periodically until 1981, the
company cracked lead and acid batteries to reclaim the lead that was smelted on site. During
the battery crushing operation, the equivalent of 399,000 gallons of acid wastes contaminated
with heavy metals from the batteries ran from the crushing area, along an unlined ditch, and
into an unlined pond. The pond has intermittently overflowed into the Black River, located
along one side of the site, contaminating it with heavy metals and acid. Old cars, car parts,
and other materials commonly found in scrap yards are present on the site. A company that
manufactures machine parts is located next to the scrap yard. The building that was used for
battery cracking is still standing and is located on the western end of the site. The site is
bordered by a residential area, a few older homes, and a mobile home park. Two of the older
homes across the street from the site use private wells. The residents in the subdivision to the
east of the site and people in the mobile home park use water from Medford municipal wells.
Fishing is common along the river, and several parks are located along the western side of
the river, across from the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Soils, and sediments are contaminated with heavy metals including lead, barium,
copper, and zinc. Elevated levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were also
found in soil samples. Potential health threats to people include accidental
ingestion of and coming in direct contact with contaminated soil. The main
contaminant of concern at this site is lead, to which pregnant women and children
are highly sensitive. In early 1990, five nearby private wells were sampled and
showed no evidence of contamination.
May 1994
-------
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: In 1984, the potentially responsible party drained the unlined
pond and disposed of the liquid in the municipal storm sewer. A total of 7,200
gallons of water from the pond were transported to a manhole in the city park
that is located on the eastern side of the river. The first 6 inches of lead-contaminated soil
and sediment were excavated and hauled away for off-site disposal at a hazardous waste
landfill. Remaining contaminated soil was classified as solid waste and was disposed of at the
Medford Municipal Landfill. Excavation and removal of wastes were completed in 1986.
Entire Site: The EPA began an investigation into the nature and extent of
remaining contamination at the site in 1992. The investigation reviewed the
completed initial actions, define the contaminants of concern, and determined if
additional site cleanup. This investigation is planned for completion in mid-1994.
Site Facts: In 1983, the State brought an enforcement action against Scrap Processing, the
party potentially responsible for the site contamination, which resulted in the company being
ordered to perform initial cleanup actions at the site.
Environmental Progress
Much of the contaminated materials, including soil and liquids, have been excavated and
properly disposed of away from the site, reducing the potential of exposure to hazardous
materials. Investigations to determine whether additional cleanup is required at the Scrap
Processing Co., Inc. site will be completed in 1994.
Site Repository
Medford Public Library, 104 E. Perkins Street, Medford, WI
May 1994 SCRAP PROCESSING CO., INC.
-------
SHEBOYGAN
& RIVER
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980996367
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Sheboygan County
miles north of Milwaukee
The Sheboygan Harbor & River site extends approximately 14 miles through the communities
of Sheboygan Falls, Kohler, and Sheboygan. The site area includes Sheboygan Harbor,
located on Lake Michigan, and the lower Sheboygan River, which discharges into the
Sheboygan Harbor. In 1977, the State detected polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) during
routine sampling of fish. Since then, PCBs have been detected in fish, wildlife, surface water,
sediments in the harbor and river and in flood plain soils. The highest concentrations of PCBs
have been detected in sediments immediately downstream from a die-casting plant in
Sheboygan Falls. Concentrations decline farther downstream from the plant. Heavy metals
also have been found at elevated levels in sediments. Tecumseh Products Company excavated
contaminated soils from its property along the river and disposed of them off site in 1978.
The Sheboygan River drains into Lake Michigan, the source of drinking water for
approximately 58,000 people within the Sheboygan/Sheboygan Falls/Kohler metropolitan area.
The EPA has detected PCBs in sediments within a mile of the drinking water intakes. Both
the Sheboygan Harbor and River are used for recreation.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Sediments are contaminated with PCBs and a wide variety of heavy metals. Soils
and surface water are contaminated with PCBs and heavy metals including arsenic,
chromium, copper, lead, and zinc. People who come in direct contact with or ingest
contaminated soil, sediments, or surface water may be at risk. Because fish and
wildlife are contaminated with PCBs, people who eat contaminated fish or
waterfowl also may suffer adverse health effects. In 1978, the State advised
residents not to eat fish from the Sheboygan River and two tributaries, the Mullet
and Onion Rivers, because of PCB contamination. In 1987, the State also issued
an advisory not to eat wildlife from the area. The advisories are still in effect.
May 1994
-------
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.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1989-1990, Tecumseh Products Co. dredged
contaminated sediments from the upper Sheboygan River and is using them to
conduct an investigation to test and evaluate potential cleanup technologies for
treating PCB-contaminated sediments. A confined treatment facility was built on site and is
being used to study the effectiveness of enhanced biodyradation for treatment of PCBs in
sediments. Other investigations have evaluated methods for dredging, handling and
transporting sediments of fish, sediments, and water has also continued a draft report
containing the results of this phase of work will be completed in 1994.
In 1990-1991, Tecumseh Products Co. dredged additional contaminated sediments from the
Sheboygan River under a removal action. These sediments were placed into a large tank
built on site and will remain in temporary storage until the Record of Decision
determines their final disposition.
Entire Site: Tecumseh Products Company, Inc. began an investigation in 1986 to
determine the nature and extent of site contamination. The investigation is
assessing risks to human health and the environment and will result in the
evaluation of potential cleanup alternatives. The investigation has included sediment sampling
of the river and harbor, flood plain soil sampling, river and harbor water sampling, fish
sampling, and caged fish studies. A Remedial Investigation report was completed in 1990. In
late 1989, a second phase of investigation was begun, called the Alternative Specific Remedial
Investigation (see Immediate Actions above). Currently, potential cleanup alternatives are
being evaluated. A proposed plan recommending a cleanup action is planned to be released
for public comment in late 1994, with a final decision to follow.
Site Facts: In 1986, the EPA and the State signed a Consent Order with Tecumseh
Products, requiring the company to conduct an investigation at the site. In 1990, the EPA and
Tecumseh products signed a Consent Order, under which Tecumseh agreed to remove PCB-
contaminated sediments.
Environmental Progress
Removal of PCB-contaminated sediments from the river has reduced the threat to the local
population, wildlife, and the environment while studies of final cleanup alternatives are
continued at the Sheboygan Harbor & River site.
May 1994 ~~~ SHEBOYGAN HARBOR & RIVER
-------
Site Repository
Mead Public Library, 710 Plaza Eight, Sheboygan, WI 53801
Sheboygan City Hall, 828 Center Avenue 2nd Floor, Sheboygan, WI
Sheboygan County Water Quality Task Force, 631 New York Avenue, Sheboygan, WI
SHEBOYGAN HARBOR & RIVER
May 1994
-------
SPICKLER
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980902969
EPA REGION 5
Marathon County
Spencer
Site Description
The 80-acre Spickler Landfill site contains a 7 1/2-acre former landfill now used as a tree
nursery. The landfill began operations under private ownership in 1970, disposing of both
municipal and industrial wastes. The facility was sold to Mid-State Disposal, Inc., which
operated the facility from 1972 to 1973. In 1975, Mid-State Disposal sold the site back to the
original owner, who subsequently resold the property in 1976 to the present owner. The
landfill received municipal waste and asbestos dust at a time when the landfill had no liner or
leachate controls. The area subsequently was capped with native clay soils. In 1971, with State
approval, approximately 1,280 cubic yards of mercury sludge were deposited at the site in a
clay-lined pit. Later that year, the pit was capped with clay soil. The landfill closed in 1976. A
site inspection in 1984 led the EPA to observe that the pit had subsided, and water had
ponded on top. Leachate was seeping into a ditch adjacent to the site, threatening local
surface water. Approximately 75 people live within a mile of the site, and an undetermined
number of private wells are located within 1/4 mile. The sandstone aquifer provides drinking
water to private wells serving 2,000 people within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 01/22/87
Final Date: 07/21/87
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater in both the upper and lower portions of the aquifer is contaminated
with heavy metals including barium, as well as volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
including toluene. Potential health threats to people include drinking or coming in
direct contact with contaminated groundwater.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed as two operable units (OUs). In June 1992, a Record of Decision
(ROD) was signed which selected a remedy for OU #1 consisting of construction of clay caps
for the landfill and the mercury sludge pit, and installation of leachate and landfill gas
collection systems. OU #2 consists of site groundwater, and has not yet had a ROD drafted.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In accordance with the signed Consent Order, the Remedial
Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) was completed by the PRPs in June 1992.
In September, 1992, the Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs), BASF and
Weyerhauser, entered into an Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) with EPA to perform
the Remedial Design (RD) for the first OU. As part of the scope for the AOC, the leachate
collection system was installed, and is scheduled for operation in May 1994. A Unilateral
Administrative Order (UAO) was issued in February, 1994, for the Remedial Action (RA),
which requires construction of the clay landfill caps.
Site Facts: The parties potentially responsible for the site contamination signed a Consent
Order with EPA and the State, under which the parties agreed to conduct a study of the site.
Environmental Progress
The final remedy for OU #1 has been selected, construction of the leachate collection system
has been completed, and is scheduled for startup in May 1994. Construction of the clay
landfill caps will begin in May 1994, and a ROD for OU #1 should be drafted by the end of
1994.
Site Repository
Spencer Village Hall, 117 East Clark Street, Spencer, WI 54479
May 1994 SPICKLER LANDFILL
-------
STOUGHTON Cl
LANDFILL
WISCONSIN
EPAID# WID980901219
EPA REGION 5
Dane County
Stoughton
Other Names:
toughton Landfill #113
Site Description
The 27-acre Stoughton City Landfill was purchased by the City of Stoughton in 1952 for
landfill operations. Between 1952 and 1969, the site was operated as an uncontrolled dump.
In 1969, the site began operating as a State-licensed landfill. The landfill originally was
established for the disposal of commercial and municipal wastes. Local residents also used the
landfill for household waste disposal. Uniroyal, Inc., a plastics and rubber products
manufacturer, disposed of wastes at the site from 1953 to 1962. The wastes primarily
consisted of solvents, other liquid chemicals, and vinyl plastic scrap. During this time, open
burning of the liquid wastes was common, and soil was used to cover up the smoldering
residue. Liquid wastes were also reported to have been disposed of in boreholes along the
western portion of the landfill. A 1972 Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
(WDNR) license prohibited the disposal of hazardous waste at the site. In 1978, the site was
capped, seeded, and closed according to WDNR regulations. As part of the closure plans, six
wells were installed to monitor groundwater conditions at and near the site. The landfill
officially was closed in 1982, and plans were developed by Stoughton to establish a park on
top of the revegetated site. The WDNR sampled the monitoring wells in 1983 and found that
two of the six wells contained elevated levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Routine
sampling conducted by the City of Stoughton also indicated the presence of VOCs in water
collected from the monitoring wells. Approximately 10,000 people live within a 3-mile radius
of the site. The site is adjacent to the Yahara River, and wetlands border the site on three
sides.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
May 1994
-------
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with various VOCs and inorganic compounds
including arsenic and could be hazardous to the health of individuals if it is
ingested over a long period of time. The municipal wells in the City of Stoughton
have a potential of being contaminated by the hazardous materials at the site;
however, because of their depth and location, the risk is low. Sediments contain
elevated levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalates, cadmium,
and lead. The site is adjacent to surface water and wetlands; zinc in water samples
from the wetlands exceeds toxic levels.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on source control
and groundwater treatment.
Response Action Status
Source Control and Groundwater Treatment: The parties potentially
responsible for the contamination completed an investigation to determine the
nature and extent of the contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives in
1991. The purpose of the investigation was to: identify the amounts and types of
contaminants present; define the process through which contaminants may be released into
the environment; define the direction in which contaminants may travel; define the
boundaries of the contamination; and determine the routes of exposure and potential
environmental and public health threats. The final cleanup remedy was selected in 1991 and
calls for consolidation of waste exposed to groundwater; placement of a multi-layer cap over
the landfill; installation of a fence around the site; restrictions on the use and placement of
wells; groundwater monitoring; and extraction and treatment of contaminated groundwater if
necessary. Additional groundwater sampling has shown that groundwater cleanup will be
necessary. Groundwater treatment design will be initiated in 1994. Design activities of the
final and full design began in late 1992.
Site Facts: Uniroyal, Inc. and the City of Stoughton signed a Consent Order in 1988 for the
company to conduct further investigations of the site groundwater and surface water, under
EPA and WDNR oversight. Uniroyal, Inc. has since declared bankruptcy and the City of
Stoughton maintains it is financially unable to conduct the cleanup. Therefore, EPA has
funded the design this far.
May 1994 STOUGHTON CITY LANDFILL
-------
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Stoughton City Landfill site while
groundwater investigations are taking place and final cleanup activities are being planned.
Methane monitoring in structures and residences nearby the site has shown that buildup of
methane is not a cause for concern.
Site Repository
Stoughton Public Library, 304 South Fourth Street, Stoughton, WI 53589
Stoughton City Hall, 381 E. Main Street, Stoughton, WI 53589
Stoughton Utilities Office, 211 Water Street, Stoughton, WI 53589
STOUGHTON CITY LANDFILL
May 1994
-------
TOMAH ARMORY?^
WISCONSIN ^r^-±^r~~i
EPA ID#WID980610299
iPA REGION 5
Monroe County
Tomah
Site Description
The 10-acre Tomah Armory site was operated by the City of Tomah as an open, unlined
dump accepting both municipal and industrial wastes from the early 1950s to 1955. During
part of this period, the City had a similar operation 2 miles to the south, which is known as
the Tomah Fairgrounds, also an NPL site. Both Tomah sites accepted primarily municipal
refuse. However, Union Camp Corporation notified the EPA that its polyethylene plant in
Tomah had sent to the two sites 23,770 gallons of solvents and heavy metals, including lead
and chromium components. The City sold part of the land to the Wisconsin National Guard
for construction of an Armory. Homes were built on the rest of the land. According to the
City's Director of Public Works, a portion of the dump was excavated and filled with sand
before the buildings were constructed. Approximately or 9,500 people draw drinking water
from public and private wells within 3 miles of the site. The nearest well is 1 mile from the
site. The Lemonweir River is approximately 500 feet away from the site. This river and Lake
Tomah are used for recreation.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 01/22/87
Final Date: 07/21/87
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater, soil, and surface water are contaminated with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals including chromium and lead. The
contaminated groundwater, soil, and surface water could pose a health hazard to
individuals if accidentally directly contacted or ingested. The contamination at the
site could affect the wetland adjacent to the site. Nearby Deer Creek also could be
polluted by the contamination from the site, and the trout living in the stream
could bioaccumulate the toxic substances present in the site.
May 1994
-------
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: An investigation of the site began in 1993 to determine the nature
and extent of the contamination and to evaluate alternative remedies for site
cleanup. Once the investigation is completed, a final cleanup remedy will be
selected. An in-house RI began in 1993 to determine the nature and extent.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Tomah Armory site while
investigations are being planned.
Site Repository
Tomah Public Library, 716 Superior Avenue, Tomah, WI
May 1994
TOMAH ARMORY
-------
TOMAH
FAIRGROU
WISCONSIN
EPA ID#WID980616841
EPA REGION 5
Monroe County
Tomah
Site Description
From 1953 to 1959, the 10-acre Tomah Fairgrounds site was operated by the City as an open,
unlined dump, accepting both industrial and municipal wastes. During this period, the City
had a similar operation 2 miles away, where the Tomah Armory now is located; that site also
is listed on the NPL. Both Tomah sites accepted primarily municipal refuse. However, Union
Camp Corporation notifled the EPA that its polyethylene plant in Tomah had sent 23,770
gallons of solvents and heavy metals, including lead and chromium components, to the two
sites. After the dump stopped operating, the City covered the area, which then became part
of the Tomah Fairgrounds. Approximately 9,500 people draw drinking water from the public
and private wells within 3 miles of the site. The closest residence is within 1/4 mile of the site,
and approximately 4,100 people live within a 1-mile radius. The site is used as a fairgrounds;
therefore, access is unrestricted. The nearest downslope water, Lake Tomah, is approximately
400 feet away from the site and is used for recreational purposes. Because the wastes were
inadequately covered and there were no diversion structures, contaminated runoff could have
reached nearby surface waters. A third site, the Tomah Municipal Sanitary Landfill, was
listed on the NPL in March 1989.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 01/22/87
Final Date: 07/21/87
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater, soil, and surface water are contaminated with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals including chromium and lead. The
contaminated groundwater, soil, and surface water could be a health hazard to
individuals if accidentally directly contacted or swallowed. In an inspection
conducted in 1984, the EPA observed areas where erosion had worn away some of
the soil; thus, people and animals potentially could come into direct contact with
May 1994
-------
hazardous substances.
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: As a pre-investigation activity, the State sampled private wells in the
area for VOC contamination. An in-house RI began in 1993 to determine the
nature and extent of the contamination. The results of the investigation will be
used to evaluate various cleanup alternatives and to select final cleanup remedies.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Tomah Fairgrounds site while
investigations are being planned.
Site Repository
Tomah Public Library, 716 Superior Avenue, Tomah, WI
May 1994
TOMAH FAIRGROUNDS
-------
TOMAH MUN
SANITARY
WISCONSIN
EPA ID#WID980610307
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Monroe County
Toman
The 40-acre Tomah Municipal Sanitary Landfill site was owned and operated by the City of
Tomah from 1959 to 1979 and was licensed by the State to accept municipal wastes. In 1979,
the site was covered with sand and planted with red pines. The landfill is unlined. One local
facility, the Union Camp Corporation, notified the EPA that it had sent to the landfill
approximately 1,514 drums of wastes containing barium, chromium, lead, spent solvents, ethyl
acetate, and trichloroethylene (TCE). In 1984, the EPA inspected the site and sampled the
groundwater and sediments in Deer Creek, which runs through the property 250 feet to the
north of the filled area. On-site groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals and volatile
organic compounds (VOCs). The City of Tomah has a population of approximately 7,300
people. Municipal wells serving Tomah are located within a 3-mile radius of the site.
Approximately 2,000 people live within a 1-mile radius of the site and use private wells for
drinking water supplies. In 1993, the City of Tomah hooked up the site's adjacent
subdivision's private wells to municipal water. Two private wells on the southern side of the
landfill have been found to be contaminated. Deer Creek is used by local residents as a trout
stream. A freshwater wetland is located within 1,000 feet of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with VOCs and heavy metals including cadmium,
chromium, and lead. The contaminated groundwater could pose a health threat to
individuals if it is directly contacted or ingested. Also, contamination could enter
the food chain through the fish in Deer Creek, which may be polluted.
May 1994
-------
Cleanup Approach
This 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: New wells were installed to replace two wells where
contamination was found.
Entire Site: As a pre-investigation activity, the State plans to sample private wells
in the area for VOC contamination. An investigation will begin in spring 1994. to
determine the nature and extent of the contamination. The results of the
investigation will be used to evaluate various cleanup alternatives and to select a final cleanup
method.
Environmental Progress
Replacement of two contaminated wells has reduced the threat of exposure to contaminants
at the Tomah Municipal Sanitary Landfill site while investigations leading to a final cleanup
remedy are being planned.
Site Repository
Tomah Public Library, 716 Superior Avenue, Tomah, WI
May 1994 TOMAH MUNICIPAL SANITARY LANDFILL
-------
WASTE MANAGEMENT
OF WISCONSIN,
(BROOKFIELD
SANITARY LAI
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980901235
Site Description
REGION 5
Waukesha County
Brookfield
Waste Management of Wisconsin operated a 20-acre sanitary landfill at this site from 1969 to
1981. Prior to 1969, the site had been a sand and gravel pit. In 1976, Waste Management
received a permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) to accept
municipal waste. According to EPA tests in 1985, the groundwater is contaminated with
cyanide. Approximately 11,000 people obtain drinking water from public and private wells
within 3 miles of the site; the nearest well is within 1,000 feet of the site. Poplar Creek,
located 3,600 feet southwest of the site, is used for recreational activities. A freshwater
wetland is located 1,800 feet from the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with various volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
including vinyl chloride, and cyanide from site landfilling operations. Potential
health risks include coming in direct contact with or accidentally ingesting
contaminated groundwater. The wetland also may be threatened.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
May 1994
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: An investigation into the nature and extent of contamination is
scheduled to begin in late 1994. This investigation will be the basis for evaluating
alternative cleanup remedies.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Waste Management of Wisconsin
site at Brookfield while studies and cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Not established.
May 1994
WASTE MANAGEMENT OF WISCONSIN, INC.
(BROOKFIELD SANITARY LANDFILL)
-------
WASTE RESEAR
RECLAMATION
COMPANY
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID990829475
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Eau Claire County
Eau Claire
The 9-acre Waste Research & Reclamation (WRR) site was occupied by a roofing company
from the 1970s to 1981. WRR has occupied the site since 1981. WRR is primarily a
reclamation and recycling business for hazardous liquid wastes, fuel blending, and
transportation of hazardous waste for incineration or disposal. Waste materials handled
include chlorinated and fluorinated solvents and flammables. Approximately 160 people live
within a 1-mile radius of the site. The site is 1/2 mile east of Lowes Creek, a tributary of the
Chippewa River. The closest residence is 1/4 mile from the site. A private well is located
1,500 feet from the site.
Site
Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
The groundwater, soil, and surface water are contaminated with various volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) from site waste handling procedures. People who
accidentally ingest or come in direct contact with contaminated materials may be at
risk.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site. The site as has been deleted from the NPL and cleanup activities are being managed
May 1994
-------
under the authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) program.
Response Action Status —_—
Entire Site: The site has been divided into six solid waste management units for
investigation and cleanup purposes: drum storage sheds; trailer parking, product
warehouse, and abandoned drum storage area; pole barn cooling water discharge
area and abandoned drum storage area; abandoned lagoon, existing holding tank, and existing
collection sump for surface water runoff; a reclamation area, known as the LUWA area,
located in the central and western portions of the site; and a reclamation area, known as the
KONTRO area, located in the south-central portions of the site. The parties potentially
responsible for site contamination currently are conducting an investigation into the nature
and extent of groundwater, surface water, and soil contamination at the site. The
investigation will define the contaminants and recommend alternatives for the final cleanup.
Once the investigation is completed, the EPA and the State will select a remedy for site
cleanup.
Site Facts: In 1983, the State signed a Consent Order with the potentially responsible
parties to implement a long-term monitoring program.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Waste Research & Reclamation
Company site while studies are taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Not established.
May 1994 WASTE RESEARCH & RECLAMATION COMPANY
-------
WAUSAU
GROUNDWATE
CONTAMINATION
WISCONSIN I
EPA ID# WID980993521
EPA REGION 5
Marathon County
Wausau
Other Names:
Wausau Water Supply
Site Description
The City of Wausau provides drinking water for approximately 33,000 people from
groundwater wells located on both sides of the Wisconsin River. In 1982, three of the wells
were found to be contaminated with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In
1984, an interim carbon filter system was installed on one off the affected wells until two air
strippers could be constructed. The air strippers, installed at the municipal water facility in
1984, replaced the carbon filters as a long-term solution for providing acceptable drinking
water to city residents. Approximately 32,000 people live within a 3-mile radius of the site.
The Wisconsin River, which bisects the area, is used for commercial and recreational
purposes.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 04/10/85
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and soil are contaminated with various VOCs. Potential health
risks include accidentally ingesting or coming in direct contact with contaminated
groundwater or soil.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the west side contamination plume and cleanup of the other
contamination plumes.
May 1994
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1984, the EPA installed temporary carbon filters to
remove VOCs from the contaminated groundwater in one well. Air strippers
subsequently were installed on two municipal wells.
West Side Contaminant Plume: In 1988, the EPA selected the following
cleanup actions for this phase of the cleanup: groundwater pumping and treatment
using air stripping, with discharge to the Wisconsin River; groundwater monitoring;
and provision for implementation of an additional extraction well, as necessary. The
treatment system has been operational since 1990.
Other Contamination Plumes: In 1989, the EPA selected the following
remedies for two plumes: installation of soil vapor extraction systems to remove
VOCs from soils at identified source areas; treatment of gases produced by the
soil vapor extraction operation, using vapor phase carbon units that will be regenerated at an
off-site facility; and pumping of the municipal supply wells to speed removal of the
groundwater contaminant plumes affecting these wells. The design of the remedies was
conducted by the potentially responsible parties. The SVE systems have been installed and
are operating.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree was signed in 1990 with the parties potentially responsible for
site contamination to finance a portion of past cleanup costs. The Consent Decree names the
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as EPA's oversight contractor at the site.
Environmental Progress
The installation of a permanent groundwater treatment system for the drinking water supply
affected by the westside contamination plume has reduced the potential of exposure to
hazardous substances in the drinking water and will continue to protect residents near the
Wausau Groundwater Contamination site.
Site Repository
Marathon County Public Library, 400 First Street, Wausau, WI 54401
May 1994
WAUSAU GROUNDWATER CONTAMINATION
-------
WHEELER PI
WISCONSIN
EPA ID# WID980610620 I
EPA REGION 5
Rock County
1 1/2 miles east of Janesville
Site Description
The 3 3/4-acre Wheeler Pit site, a former disposal area, lies within a 35-acre abandoned
gravel pit. Wheeler Pit originally was mined for sand and gravel by the Chicago, Milwaukee,
St. Paul, and Pacific Railroad Company. In 1956, General Motors Corporation (GMC) leased
a 4-acre portion of the pit from the railroad for waste disposal. From 1960 to 1974, GMC
used Wheeler Pit to dispose of paint and wastewater sludges from its Janesville auto assembly
plant, as well as coal ashes from power plant boilers. The sludge and ash were contained by a
dike at the pit. In 1971, a liquid was found seeping onto the ground from the GMC disposal
area. Disposal at Wheeler Pit ended in 1974, and the site was covered at the request of La
Prairie Township. From 1974 to 1988, the site was monitored intermittently for groundwater
contamination. Elevated levels of the volatile organic compound (VOC) trichloroethylene
(TCE), chromium, zinc, arsenic and barium were found in site groundwater samples collected
in 1981 by GMC and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR).
Approximately 51,000 people live within 3 miles of the site. The Rock River is approximately
2 miles west of the site. The City of Janesville operates five groundwater wells within 3 miles
of the site. Three of the wells supply virtually all of the Janesville water supply. Five private
wells are located within 1/4 mile of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater resources underlying the site were found to be contaminated with
heavy metals including iron, manganese, chromium, and arsenic, as well as low
levels of VOCs. Soils and surface wastes contain heavy metals such as cadmium
and lead and semi-volatile organics. Potential health risks include accidental
ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater, soils, or surface
water.
May 1994
-------
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: A field investigation of the site has been completed to determine the
nature and extent of contamination. Monitoring wells were installed and test pits
were excavated. A remedy was chosen in late 1990, which entails construction of a
multi-layer cap, installation of a fence around the site to restrict access, consolidation of
waste and soil from a neighboring property into the original disposal area, long-term
groundwater monitoring, institutional controls of groundwater and land use on the site, and
natural attenuation of the contaminated groundwater. Future active responses to restore
groundwater quality may be necessary if cleanup standards are not achieved within a
reasonable period of time. The design of the landfill cap and groundwater monitoring system
began in 1991. The design was completed in 1992, and the construction of the cap began
soon after. Construction was completed in November 1992 and the operation and
maintenance phase began in January 1993.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Wheeler Pit site while cleanup
activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Janesville Public Library, 316 South Main Street, Janesville, WI 53545
May 1994 WHEELER PIT
-------
GLOSSARY
Terms Used in the NPL Book
This glossary defines terms used throughout the NPL Volumes. The terms and
abbreviations contained in this glossary apply specifically to work performed
under the Superfund program in the context of hazardous waste management. These
terms may have other meanings when used in a different context. A table of common
toxic chemicals found at NPL sues, their sources, and their potential threats is located
on page G-15
Acids: Substances, characterized by low pH
(less than 7.0), that are used in chemical manu-
facturing. Acids in high concentration can be
very corrosive and react with many inorganic
and organic substances. These reactions possi-
bly may create toxic compounds or release
heavy metal contaminants that remain in the
environment long after the acid is neutralized.
Administrative Order On Consent: A
legal and enforceable agreement between the
EPA and the parties potentially responsible for
site contamination. Under the terms of the
Order, the potentially responsible parties (PRPs)
agree to perform or pay for site studies or
cleanups. It also describes the oversight rules.
responsibilities, and enforcement options that
the government may exercise in the event of
non-compliance by potentially responsible
parties. This Order is signed by PRPs and the
government: it does not require approval by a
judge.
Administrative Order [Unilateral]: A
legally binding document issued by the EPA,
directing the parties potentially responsible to
perform site cleanups or studies (generally, the
EPA does not issue Unilateral Orders for site
studies). This type of Order is not signed by the
PRPs and does not require approval by a judge.
Aeration: A process that promotes breakdown
of contaminants in soil or water by exposing
them to air.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Dis-
ease Registry (ATSDR): The Federal
agency within the U.S. Public Health Service
charged with carrying out the health-related
responsibilities ot'CERCLA.
Air Stripping: A process whereby volatile
organic chemicals (VOCs) are removed from
contaminated material by forcing a stream of air
through the contaminated material in a pressur-
ized vessel. The contaminants are evaporated
into the air stream. The air may be further
treated before it is released into the atmosphere.
Ambient Air: Any unconfined pan of the
atmosphere. Refers to the air that may be
inhaled by workers or residents in the vicinity of
contaminated air sources.
Applicable or Relevant and Appropriate
Requirements (ARARs): Federal State, or
local laws which apply to Superfund activities at
NPL sites. Both emergency and long-term
actions must comply with these laws or provide
sound reasons for allowing a waiver. ARARs
must be identified for each site relative to the
characteristics of the site, the substances found
at the site, or the cleanup alternatives being
considered for the site.
-------
GLOSSARY
properties, which increase cleaning efficiency.
However, these properties also cuu^e chemical
reactions that increase the hazard to huinan
health and the environment.
Carbon Treatment: [see Carbon Adsorp-
tion).
Cell: In solid waste disposal, one of a .series of
holes in a landfill where waste is dumped.
compacted, and covered with layers of dirt.
CERCLA: [see Comprehensive Environmen-
tal Response. Compensation, and Liability Act|.
Characterization: The sampling, monitoring.
and analysis of a site to determine the extent and
nature of toxic releases. Characterization
provides the basis for acquiring the necessary
technical information to develop, screen, ana-
lyze, and select appropriate cleanup techniques.
Chemical Fixation: The use of chemicals to
bind contaminants, thereby reducing the poten-
tial for leaching or other movement
Chromated Copper Arsenate: An insecti-
cide/herbicide formed from salts of three toxic
metals: copper, chromium, and arsenic. This
salt is used extensively as a wood preservative
in pressure-treating operations. It is highly toxic
and water-soluble, making it a relatively mobile
contaminant in the environment
Cleanup: Actions taken to eliminate a release
or threat of release of a hazardous substance.
The term "cleanup" sometimes is used inter-
changeably with the terms remedial action,
removal action, response action, or corrective
action.
Closure: The process by which a landfill stops
accepting wastes and is shut down under Federal
guidelines tnut ensure the protection of the
public and the environment.
Comment Period: A specific interval during
which the public can review and comment on
various documents and EPA actions related to
site cleanup. For example, a comment period is
provided when the EPA proposes to add sites to
the NTPL. Also, there is minimum 3-week
comment penod for community members to
review and comment on the remedy proposed to
clean up a site.
Community Relations: The EPA effort to
establish and maintain two-way communication
with the public. The goals of community
relations programs include creanng an under-
standing of EPA programs and related actions,
assuring public input into decision-making
processes related to affected communities, and
making certain that the Agency is aware of, and
responsive to, public concerns. Specific com-
munity relations activities are required in
relation to Superfund cleanup actions [see
Comment Periodl.
Comprehensive Environmental Re-
sponse, Compensation, and Liability
Act (CERCLA): Congress enacted the
CERCLA. known as Superfund. in 19X0 to
respond directly to hazardous waste problems
that may pose a threat to the public health and
the environment The EPA administers the
Superfund program.
Confluence: The place where two bodies of
water, such as streams or rivers, come together.
Confined Aquifer: An aquifer in which
groundwater is confined under pressure that is
significantly greater than atmospheric pressure.
-------
GLOSSARY
Dike: A low wail that can act as a bamer to
prevent a spill from spreading.
Dioxin: An organic chemical by-product of
pesticide manufacture which is known to be one
of the most toxic man-made chemicals.
Disposal: Final placement or destruction of
toxic, radioactive, or other wastes: surplus or
banned pesticides or other chemicals: polluted
soils: and drums containing hazardous materials.
Disposal may be accomplished through the use
of approved secure landfills, surface impound-
ments, land farming, deep well injection, or
incineration.
Downgradient: A downward hydroiouu.
slope that causes groundwater to move toward
lower elevations. Therefore, wells ih>wn\>nuii-
ent of a contaminated groundwater source are
prone to receiving pollutants.
Ecological Assessment: A study of the
impact of man-made or natural activity on living
creatures and their environment.
Effluent: Wastewater. treated or untreated.
that flows out of a treatment plant, sewer, or
industrial outfall. Generally refers to wastes
discharged into surface waters.
Emission: Pollution discharged into the
atmosphere from smokestacks, other vents, and
surface areas of commercial or industrial facili-
ties.
Emulsifiers: Substances that help in mixing
materials that do not normally mix: e.g.. oil and
water.
Endangerment Assessment: A study
conducted to determine the risks posed to public-
health or the environment by contamination at
NPL sites. The EPA or the State conducts the
study when a legal action is to be taken to direct
the potentially responsible parties to clean up a
site or pay for the cleanup. An endangerment
assessment supplements an investigation of the
site hazards.
Enforcement: EPA. State, or local legal
actions taken against parties to facilitate
settlements: to compel compliance with laws.
rules, regulations, or agreements: or to obtain
penalties or criminal sanctions for violations.
Enforcement procedures may vary, depending
on the specific requirements of different
environmental laws and related regulatory
requirements. Under CERCLA. for example.
the EPA will seek to require potentially
responsible parties to clean up a Superfund
site or pay for the cleanup [see Cost Recov-
ery).
Erosion: The wearing away of land surface
by wind or water. Erosion occurs naturally
from weather or surface runoff, but can be
intensified by such land-related practices as
farming, residential or industrial develop-
ment, road building, or timber-cutting. Ero-
sion may spread surface contamination to off-
site locations.
Estuary (estuarine): Areas where fresh
water from rivers and salt water from
nearshore ocean waters are mixed. These
areas may include bays, mouths of rivers, salt
marshes, and lagoons. These water ecosys-
tems shelter and feed marine life, birds, and
wildlife.
Evaporation Ponds: Areas where sewage
sludge or other watery wastes are dumped and
allowed to dry out.
Feasibility Study: The analysis of the
potential cleanup alternatives for a site. The
feasibility study usually starts as soon as the
remedial investigation is underway. In this
volume, the feasibility study is referred to as a
site study [see also Remedial Investigation].
-------
GLOSSARY
Hot Spot: An area or vicinity of a Mte contain-
ing exceptionally high levels of contamination.
Hydrocarbons: Chemical compounds that
consist entirely of hydrogen and carbon.
Hydrology: The properties, distribution, and
circulation of water.
Hydrogeology: The geology of groundwater.
with particular emphasis on the chemistry and
movement of water.
Impoundment: A body of water or sludge
confined by a dam. dike, floodgate, or other
barrier.
Incineration: A group of treatment technolo-
gies involving destruction of waste by controlled
burning at high temperatures, e.g.. burning
sludge to reduce the remaining residues to a
non-burnable ash that can be disposed of safely
on land, in some waters, or in underground
locations.
Infiltration: The movement of water or
other liquid down through soil from precipita-
tion (rain or snow) or from application of
wastewater to the land surface.
Influent: Water, wastewater. or other liquid
flowing into a reservoir, basin, or treatment
plant
Injection Weil: A well into which waste
fluids are placed, under pressure, for purposes
of disposal.
Inorganic Chemicals: Chemical sub-
stances of mineral origin, not of basic carbon
structure.
Installation Restoration Program: The
specially funded program established in 197X
under which the Department of Defense has
been identifying and evaluating its hazardous
waste sites and controlling the migration of
hazardous contaminants from those sites.
Intake: The source from where a water supply
is drawn, such as from a river or water body.
Interagency Agreement: A written agree-
ment between the EPA and a Federal agency
that has the lead for sue cleanup activities.
setting forth the roles and responsibilities of the
agencies for performing and overseeing the
activities. States often are parties to interagency
agreements.
Interim (Permit) Status: Conditions under
which hazardous waste treatment, storage,
and disposal facilities, that were operating
when regulations under the RCRA became
final in 19KO. are temporarily allowed by the
EPA to continue to operate while awaiting
denial or issuance of a permanent permit. The
facility must comply with certain regulations
to maintain interim status.
Lagoon: A shallow pond or liquid waste
containment structure. Lagoons typically are
used for the storage of wastewaters. sludges.
liquid wastes, or spent nuclear fuel.
Landfarm: To apply waste to land or incor-
porate waste into the surface soil, such as
fertilizer or soil conditioner. This practice
commonly is used for disposal of composted
wastes and sludges.
Landfill: A disposal facility where waste is
placed in or on land. Sanitary landfills are
disposal sites for non-hazardous solid wastes.
The waste is spread in layers, compacted to the
smallest practical volume, and covered with soil
at the end of each operating day. Secure chemi-
cal landfills are disposal sites for hazardous
waste. They are designed to minimize the
chance of release of hazardous substances into
the environment [see Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act).
Leach, Leaching [v.t]: The process by
which soluble chemical components are dis-
solved and carried through soil by water or
some other percolating liquid.
-------
GLOSSARY
The 60-day period may be extended if the EPA
receives u good faith offer from the PRPs
within that period. [See also Good Faith Offer].
On-Scene Coordinator (OSC): The
predesignated EPA. Coast Guard, or Depart-
ment of Defense official who coordinates and
directs Superfund removal actions or Clean
Water Act oil- or hazardous-spill corrective
actions.
Operation and Maintenance: Activities
conducted at a site after a cleanup action is
completed to ensure that the cleanup or
containment system is functioning properly.
Organic Chemicals/Compounds:
Chemical substances containing mainly
carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Outfall: The place where wastewater is
discharged into receiving waters.
Overpacking: Process used for isolating
large volumes of waste by jacketing or encap-
sulating waste to prevent further spread or
leakage of contaminating materials. Leaking
drums may be contained within oversized
barrels as an interim measure prior to removal
and final disposal.
Pentachlorophenol (PCP): A synthetic.
modified petrochemical that may be used as a
wood preservative because of its toxiciry to
termites and fungi. It is a common component
of creosotes and can cause cancer.
Perched (groundwater): Ground water
separated from another underlying body of
groundwater by a confining layer, often clay or
rock.
Percolation: The downward flow or filtering
of water or other liquids through subsurface
rock or soil layers, usually continuing down-
ward to groundwater.
Pesticide: A substance or mixture of sub-
stances intended to prevent destroy, or repel any
pest If misused, pesticides can accumulate in
the foodcham and contaminate the environment
Petrochemicals: Chemical substances
produced from petroleum in refinery operations
. and as fuel oil residues. These include
fluoranthene. chrysene. mineral spirits, and
refined oils. Petrochemicals are the bases from
which volatile organic compounds (VOGO.
plastics, and many pesticides are made. These
chemical substances often are toxic to humans
and the environment
Phenols: Organic compounds that are used in
plastics manufacturing and are by-products of
petroleum refining, tanning, textile, dye, and
resin manufacturing. Phenols are highly poison-
Physical Chemical Separation: The
treatment process of adding a chemical to a
substance to separate the compounds for further
treatment or disposal
Pilot Testing: A small-scale test of a pro-
posed treatment system in the field to determine
its ability to clean up specific contaminants.
Plugging: The process of stopping the flow of
water, oil. or gas into or out of the ground
through a borehole or well penetrating the
ground.
Plume: A body of contaminated groundwater
flowing from a specific source. The movement
of the groundwater is influenced by such factors
as local groundwater flow patterns, the character
of the aquifer in which groundwater is con-
tained, and the density of contaminants [see
Migration].
Pollution: Generally, the presence of maner
or energy whose nature, location, or quantity
produces undcsircd health or environmental
effects.
-------
GLOSSARY
Record of Decision (ROD): A public
document that explains which cleanup
alternative! s) will be used to clean up sites
listed on the NPL. It is based on information
generated during the remedial investigation
and feasibility study and consideration of
public comments and community concerns.
Recovery Wells: Wells used to withdraw
contaminants or contaminated groundwater.
Recycle: The process of minimizing waste
generation by recovering usable products that
might otherwise become waste.
Remedial Action (RA): The actual con-
struction or implementation phase of a
Supertund site cleanup following the remedial
design [see Cleanup].
Remedial Design: A phase of site cleanup
where engineers design the technical specifi-
cations for cleanup remedies and technolo-
gies.
Remedial Investigation: An in-depth
study designed to gather the data necessary to
determine the nature and extent of contamina-
tion at a Superfund site, establish the criteria
for cleaning up the site, identify the prelimi-
nary alternatives for cleanup actions, and
support the technical and cost analyses of the
alternatives. The remedial investigation is
usually done with the feasibility study. In this
volume, the remedial investigation is referred
to as a site study [see also Feasibility Study].
Remedial Project Manager (RPM): The
EPA or State official responsible for oversee-
ing cleanup actions at the site.
Remedy Selection: The selection of the
final cleanup strategy for the site. At the few
sites where the EPA has determined that
initial response actions have eliminated site
contamination, or that any remaining con-
tamination will be naturally dispersed without
further cleanup activities, a 'No Action"
remedy is selected [see Record of Decision).
Removal Action: Short-term immediate
actions taken to address releases of hazardous
substances [see Cleanup].
Residual: The amount of a pollutant re-
maining in the environment after a natural or
technological process has taken place, e.g.,
the sludge remaining after initial wastewater
treatment, or the particulates remaining in air
after the air passes through a scrubber.
Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA): A Federal law that established
a regulatory system to track hazardous sub-
stances from the time of generation to dis-
posal. The law requires safe and secure
procedures to be used in treating, transport-
ing, storing, and disposing of hazardous
substances. RCRA is designed to prevent
new. uncontrolled hazardous waste sites.
Retention Pond: A small body of liquid
used for disposing of wastes and containing
overflow from production facilities. Some-
times retention ponds are used to expand the
capacity of such structures us luuoons the
store waste.
t.
Runoff: The discharge of water over land
into surface water. It can carry pollutants
from the air and land and spread contaminants
from its source.
Scrubber: An air pollution control device
that uses a spray of water or reactant or a dry
process to trap pollutants in emissions.
Sediment: The layer of soil, sand, and
minerals at the bottom of surface waters such
as streams, lakes, and rivers, that absorbs
contaminants.
-------
GLOSSARY
Solvent: A substance capable of dissolving
another suostance to form a solution. The
primary uses of industrial solvents are as
cleaners for decreasing, in paints, and in
Pharmaceuticals. Many solvents are flam-
mable and toxic to varying degrees.
Solvent Extraction: A means of separating
hazardous contaminants from soils, sludges,
and sediment, thereby reducing the volume of
the hazardous waste that must be treated. It
generally is used as one in a series of unit
operations. An organic chemical is used to
dissolve contaminants as opposed to water-
based compounds, which usually are used in
soil washing.
Sorptlon: The action of soaking up or
attracting.substances. It is used in many
pollution control systems.
Special Notice Letter: [See Notice Let-
ter].
Stillbottom: Residues left over from the
process of recovering spent solvents.
Stripping: A process used to remove volatile
contaminants from a substance [see Air Strip-
ping].
Sumps: A pit or tank that catches liquid
runoff for drainage or disposal.
Superfund: The program operated under the
legislative authority of the CERCLA and
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization
Act (SARA) to update and improve environ-
mental laws. The program has the authority to
respond directly to releases or threatened re-
leases of hazardous substances that may endan-
ger public health, welfare, or the environment
The "Superfund" is a trust fund that finances
cleanup actions at hazardous waste sites.
Surge Tanks: A holding structure used to
absorb irregularities in flow of liquids, including
liquid waste materials.
Swamp: A type of wetland that is dominated
by woody vegetation and does not accumulate
peat moss deposits. Swamps may be fresh or
saltwater and tidal or non-tidal [see Wetlands].
Thermal Treatment: The use of heat to
remove or destroy contaminants from soiL
Treatability Studies: Testing a treatment
method on contaminated groundwater, soil, etc..
to determine whether and how well the method
will work.
Trichloroethylene (TCE): A stable, color-
less liquid with a low boiling point TCE has
many industrial applications, including use as
a solvent and as a metal degrcasing agent
TCE may be toxic to people when inhaled,
ingested, or through skin contact and can
damage vital organs, especially the liver [see
Volatile Organic Compounds].
Unilateral [Administrative] Order: [see
Administrative Order].
Upgradient: An upward hydrologic slope;
demarks areas that are higher than contaminated
areas and. therefore, are not prone to contamina-
tion by the movement of polluted groundwater.
Vacuum Extraction: A technology used to
remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
from soils. Vacuum pumps are connected to a
series of wells drilled to just above the water
table. The wells are sealed tightly at the soil
surface, and the vacuum established in the soil
draws VOC-contaminated air from the soil
pores into the well, as fresh air is drawn down
from the surface of the soil.
-------
GLOSSARY
Some Common Contaminants at NPL Sites
Contaminant t
Category
Example
Chemical Types
Sources
Potential Health
Threats*
Heavy MetaJs
Volatila Organic
Comoounos
(VOCs)
Pastcidas/
Herbicides
PotycMotinatad
ttphenyts(PC8s)
Creosotes
Radiatioir
Arsenic, Barium. Beryllium.
Cadmium, Cobalt. Copper.
Chromium. Lead. Manga-
nese. Mercury. Nickel.
Silver. Selenium. Zinc
Trichloroethvtene iTCE).
Percnloroetnyiene iFCE).
Acetone. Benzene.
Ketone. Methyl chloride.
Toluene, Vinyl Chloride.
Dichlorethylene
Chtordane, DDT 4-4. DDE.
Heptachlor, Aldnn. Endnn,
Atrazme, Dieidnn. Toxa-
phene
Polyaromatic hydrocar-
bons (PAHs). Polynuclear
aromatics (PNAs).
Phenolic Tars, Perrtachto-
rophenol (POP)
Radium-226. Radon,
Uranium-235, Uranium-
238
Electroplating, batteries.
paint pigments, photogra-
phy, smelting, thermom-
eters, fluorescent lights.
solvent recovery
Solvents ana degreasers.
gasoline octane ennanc-
ers, oils ana paints, dry
cleaning fluids, chemical
manufacturing.
Agncultural applications,
pesticide and herbicide
production
Electric transformers and
capacitors, insulators and
coolants, adhesives.
caulking compounds.
carbonless copy paper,
hydraulic fluids.
Wood preserving, fossil
fuel combustion
Mine tailings, radium
products, natural decay of
granites
Tumors, cancers, and kidney,
brain, neurological, bone and
liver damage
Cancers. Kidney and liver
damage, impairment of the
nervous system resulting in
sleepiness and headaches.
leukemia
Various effects ranging from
nausea to nervous disorders.
Dioxm is a common by-product
of the manufacture of pesti-
cides and is both highly toxic
and a suspected carcinogen.
Cancer and liver damage.
Cancers and skin ulceratnns
with prolonged exposure
Cancer
Sources: Toxic Chemicals—What They Are. How They Affect You (EPA. Region S)
Glossary ot Environmental Terms (EPA. 1988)
'Thei potential for nskdue ID these contaminants is linked to a numoer ot factors: for example, the length and level of exposure
and environmental and health factors such as age.
------- |