United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
&EPA
Great Lakes National
Program 'Office
536 South Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois 60605
EPA-905/4-85-001
March 1985
Preliminary Evaluation
Of Chemical Migration
To Groundwater and
The Niagara River from
Selected Waste-
Disposal Sites
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"Preliminary Evaluation of Chemical
Migration to Groundwater and the Niagara River from
Selected Waste-Disposal Sites"
By
Edward J. Koszalka, James E. Paschal, Jr.,
Todd S. Miller and Philip B. Duran
Prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey
in cooperation with the
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
for the
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
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DISCLAIMER
This report has been reviewed by the Great Lakes National Program Office,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and approved for publication. Approval
does not signify that the contents necessarily reflect the views and policies
of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, nor does mention of trade names,
or commercial products constitute endorsement, or recommendation for use.
n
U.S. I:r.vi-vrr-::.••-'. : . r/:'.:sn Agency
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FOREWORD
The Great Lakes National Program Office (GLNPO) of the United States
Environmental Protection Agency was established in Region V, Chicago, to
focus attention on the significant and complex natural resource represented
by the Great Lakes.
GLNPO implements a multi-media environmental management program
drawing on a wide range of expertise represented by universities, private
firms, State, Federal, and Canadian governmental agencies, and the
International Joint Commision. The goal of the GLNPO program is to
develop programs, practices and technology necessary for a better
understanding of the Great Lakes system. GLNPO also coordinates U.S.
actions in fulfillment of the Agreement between Canada and the United
States of America on Great Lakes Water Quality of 1978.
This cooperative study was supported by GLNPO, USEPA Region II, New
York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and United States
Geological Survey funds to define more clearly the interactions between
groundwater and surface water in the Niagara River area.
in
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CONTENTS
Page
List of sites studied xxiii
Abstract 1
Introduction 1
Purpose and scope 3
Acknowledgments 3
Methods of investigation 4
Individual site studies 4
Assignment of site numbers 4
Literature review 5
Drilling and coring 5
Substrate and water sampling 5
Electromagnetic-conductivity survey 9
Study of dredge-spoil-containment sites 9
Regional hydrologic investigation 9
Hydrogeology, stratigraphy, and water quality 9
Monitoring wells 12
Bedrock drilling 13
Quality assurance for chemical data 13
Practices 13
Results 17
Evaluation of contaminant migration 30
Qualitative assessment 30
Quantitative assessment 30
General considerations 30
Method of computation 32
Regional hydrologic evaluation 34
Buffalo area 35
Geology 35
Aquifer lithology and water-bearing characteristics 39
Ground-water quality 40
Tonawanda area 42
Geology 42
Aquifer lithology and water-bearing characteristics 44
Ground-water quality 45
Niagara Falls area 49
Geology 49
Aquifer lithology and water-bearing characteristics 52
Ground-water quality 56
Results of hydrologic and chemical evaluation 71
Guidelines for future studies 75
Site studies 75
Modeling of regional ground-water flow 77
Summary 78
Sources of data 80
Appendices 85
A. Buffalo area site descriptions 91
B. Tonawanda area site descriptions 175
C. Niagara Falls area site descriptions 289
IV
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PLATES
(in pocket)
1. Location of sites in Buffalo area.
2. Location of sites in Tonawanda area.
3. Location of sites in Niagara Falls area.
ILLUSTRATIONS
Page
Figure 1. Map showing location of study area in Erie and Niagara
Counties 2
2. Horizontal and vertical ground-water gradients in a
generalized hydrologic section 33
3-4. Maps of Buffalo area showing:
3. Bedrock geology of the Buffalo area 36
4. Surficial geology of the Buffalo area 37
5. Map showing surficial geology of Tonawanda area, N.Y 43
6. General geologic column of the Niagara Falls area 50
7-8. Maps showing:
7. Surficial geology of the Niagara Falls area 51
8. Potentiometric surface of the upper water-bearing zones
of the Lockport Dolomite and location of bedrock wells
in the Niagara Falls area 53
Buffalo Area (Appendix A)
Figure A-l. Location of sampling holes and electromagnetic survey
lines at Anaconda Company, site 113, Buffalo 94
A-2. Results of electromagnetic conductivity survey at Anaconda
Company, site 113, Buffalo 96
A-3 - A-4. Maps showing:
A-3. Location of monitoring wells at Bethlehem Steel, site
118, Lackawanna. 98
A-4. Water-table altitude and location of sampling holes at
Buffalo Color Corporation, sites 120-122, Buffalo 103
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figures A-4 - A-12. Maps showing:
A-5. Location of sampling holes at Hanna Furnace
Corporation, site 135, Buffalo 106
A-6. Location of sampling holes at McNaughton-
Brooks, Inc., site 138, Buffalo 108
A-7. Location of sampling holes at Houdaille
Industries—Manzel Division, site 140, Buffalo 112
A-8. Location of sampling holes at Mobil Oil
Corporation, site 141, Buffalo 115
A~9. Location of sampling holes at Otis Elevator,
site 144, Buffalo 118
A-10. Location of sampling holes at Ramco Steel, site
147, Buffalo 121
A-ll. Potentiometric surface and location of sampling
holes at Republic Steel, site 148, Buffalo,
August 1979 and February 1982 125
A-12. Location of sampling holes at Alltift Landfill,
site 162, Buffalo 126
A-13. Generalized geologic column of formations underlying
the Alltift Landfill, site 162, Buffalo 127
A-14 - A-19. Maps showing:
A-14. Location of sampling holes at Empire Waste,
site 173, Buffalo 133
A-15. Location of sampling holes at Lehigh Valley
Railroad, site 190, Buffalo 135
A-16. Location of sampling holes at Niagara Frontier
Port Authority, site 196, Buffalo 141
A-17. Location of sampling holes at Procknal and Katra,
site 200, Blasdell 142
A-18. Location of sampling holes on Squaw Island, site
203, Buffalo 145
A-19. Location of sampling holes and electromagnetic-
conductivity survey lines at Donner Hanna Coke,
site 217, Buffalo 152
VI
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figure A-20. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey
at Donner Hanna Coke, site 217, Buffalo 152
A-21 - A-25. Maps showing:
A-21. Location of sampling holes at West Seneca
Transfer Station, site 220, West Seneca 157
A-22. Location of monitoring wells at Times Beach
disposal site, site 241, along Lake Erie, Buffalo.... 158
A-23. Location of sampling holes at Allied Chemical,
Hurwitz-Ranne Hopkins Street, site 249, Buffalo 163
A-24. Location of monitoring wells at Small Boat Harbor
Containment Site, site 253, along Lake Erie,
Buffalo 168
A-25. Location of monitoring wells at Buffalo Harbor
Containment Site, site 254, along Lake Erie,
Lackawanna 171
Tonawanda Area (Appendix B)
Figure B-l. Location of sampling holes and monitoring well at Buffalo
Pumps Division, site 6, North Tonawanda 177
B~2. Map showing location of monitoring wells at Occidental
Chemical-Durez Division, sites 24 through 37, North
Tonawanda 178
B-3. General geologic column of formations underlying
Occidental Chemical-Durez Division, sites 24 through
37 , North Tonawanda. . . „ 179
B-4 - B-7. Maps showing:
B-4. Location of monitoring wells and surface-water samples
at National Grinding Wheel, site 50, North Tonawanda.. 183
B-5. Direction of ground-water flow at National Grinding
Wheel, site 5U, North Tonawanda 185
B-6. Locations of sampling holes and monitoring wells
at Frontier Chemical Company, site 67, Pendleton 188
B-7. Location of monitoring wells at Gratwick-Riverside
Park, site 66, North Tonawanda 193
VII
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figures B-8 - B~9. Maps showing:
B-8. Location of sampling holes and monitoring wells
at Holiday Park, site 72, North Tonawanda 194
B-9. Location of monitoring wells and electromagnetic-
conductivity survey lines at Nash Road, site 93,
Wheatfield 200
B-10. Diagram showing effect of buried pipe on electromagnetic-
conductivity reading 201
B-ll. Graphs showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at Nash Road, site 93, Wheatfield, lines 1 through 8. 202
B-12 - B-21. Maps showing:
B-12. Location of sampling holes at R. P. Adams Company,
site 103, Tonawanda 208
B-13. Location of sampling holes at Allied Chemical,
Tonawanda, site 105, Tonawanda 211
B-14. Location of sampling holes at Allied Chemical,
Tonawanda, site 106, Tonawanda 213
B-15. Location of sampling holes and surface sample at
Tonawanda Coke, sites 108, 109, and 110, Tonawanda... 215
B-16. Location of sampling holes at Aluminum Match
Plate Corporation, site 111, Tonawanda 225
B-17. Location of sampling holes at Columbus McKinnon
Corporation, site 123, Tonawanda 228
B-18. Location of sampling holes and electromagnetic-
conductivity survey lines at Dunlop Tire and
Rubber Company, sites 125, 126, and 127, Tonawanda... 231
B-19. Graphs showing results of electromagnetic-
conductivity survey at Dunlop Tire and Rubber
Company, sites 125, 126, and 127, Tonawanda,
lines 1 through 5 233
B-20. Location of monitoring wells at Dupont Company,
site 128, Tonawanda 236
B-21. Location of sampling holes at FMC Corporation,
site 131, Tonawanda 240
Vlll
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figures B-22 - B-25. Maps showing:
B-22. Location of sampling holes at INS Equipment
Corporation, site 136, Tonawanda. 244
B-23. Location of sampling holes at Pennwatt-Lucidol
Division, site 137, Tonawanda 248
B-24. Location of sampling holes at Shanco Plastics and
Chemicals, sites 150 and 151, Tonawanda 252
B-25. Location of sampling holes, monitoring wells, and
electromagnetic conductivity survey lines at
Spaulding Fibre Company, sites 153 through 155b,
Tonawanda 254
B-26. Graph showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at Spaulding Fibre, sites 154 and 155, Tonawanda.... 257
B-27 - B-28. Maps showing:
B-27. Location of sampling holes at J. H. Williams
Company, site 160, Tonawanda 260
B-28. Locations of sampling holes, surface sample, and
electromagnetic-conductivity survey lines at
Huntley Power Station, site 182, Tonawanda 265
B-29. Graph showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at Huntley Power Station, site 182, Tonawanda,
lines 1 through 10 266
B-30. General geologic column of formations underlying Seaway
Industrial Park Landfill, site 201, Tonawanda 276
B-31 - B-32. Maps showing:
B-31. Location of sampling holes at William Strassman
Property, site 204, Tonawanda 279
B~32. Location of monitoring wells, sampling holes,
surface samples, and electromagnetic-conductivity
survey lines at City of Tonawanda Landfill, site
207 , Tonawanda 280
B-33. Graph showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at City of Tonawanda Landfill, site 207,
Tonawanda, lines 1 and 2 283
IX
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figures B-34 - B-35. Maps showing:
B-34. Location of monitoring wells at Botanical Gardens,
site 243, North Tonawanda 285
B-35. Location of monitoring wells at Creekside Golf
Course, site 252, Amherst 287
Niagara Falls Area (Appendix C)
Figure C-l - C-7. Maps showing:
C-l. Location of sampling holes at Airco Speer
Carbon Graphite, site 2, Niagara Falls 291
C-2. Location of sampling holes at Basic Carbon
Company, site 4, Niagara Falls 293
C-3. Location of monitoring wells at Bell Aerospace
Textron, site 5, Wheatf ield 295
C-4. Geologic cross section of formations underlying
Carborundum-Abrasive Division, site 9, Wheatfield... 298
C-5. Potentiometric surface at the overburden-bedrock
interface and location of monitoring wells at
Carborundum-Abrasive Division, site 9, Wheatfield... 299
C-6. Location of sampling holes at Chisholm Ryder,
site 11, Niagara Falls 301
C-7. General geologic cross section of formations underlying
Dupont, Necco Park, site 14, Niagara Falls 304
C-8. Maps showing water table altitude and potentiometric-
surface altitude at Dupont, Necco Part, site 14, Niagara
Falls, March 1981 305
C-9. Graph showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey for Dupont, Necco Park, site 14, Niagara Falls..... 307
C-10 - C-ll. Maps showing:
C-10. Location of sampling holes at Frontier Bronze
Company, site 21, Niagara Falls 309
C-ll. Location of sampling holes at Great Lakes
Carbon Company, site 22, Niagara Falls 311
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figures C-12 - C-24. Maps showing:
C-12. Location of monitoring wells screened in
unconsolidated deposits and in bedrock at
Occidental Chemical, love Canal, site 38,
Niagara Falls 315
C-13. Water levels in unconsolidated deposits and in
bedrock at Occidental Chemical, Love Canal, site
38, Niagara Falls 316
C-14. Location of monitoring wells, Occidental Chemical—
Hyde Park Landfill, site 39, Niagara Falls 320
C-15. Altitude of top of the Lockport Dolomite,
Occidental Chemical—Hyde Park Landfill, site 39,
Niagara Falls 321
C-16. Water levels in upper part of Lockport Dolomite,
Occidental Chemical—Hyde Park Landfill, site 39,
Niagara Falls 322
C-17. Altitude of top of the clay/till unit, Occidental
Chemical—Buffalo Avenue, S-area, site 41a, Niagara
Falls, N.Y 326
C-18. Thickness of clay/till unit, Occidental Chemical—
Buffalo Avenue, S-area, site 41a, Niagara Falls.... 327
C-19. Bedrock-surface altitude, Occidental Chemical—
Buffalo Avenue, S-area, site 41a, Niagara Falls.... 328
C-20. Water levels of February 1980 in the S-area,
Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue, site 41a,
Niagara Falls 329
C-21. Potentiometric surface of bedrock aquifer, April
1979, Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue, S-area,
site 41a, Niagara Falls... 330
C-22. Water-table altitudes in overburden aquifer,
June 1979, Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue
Plant, sites 41b through 49, Niagara Falls 334
C-23. Water-table altitudes in overburden aquifer,
September 1979, Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue
Plant, Sites 41b through 49, Niagara Falls 335
C-24. Potentiometric surface of bedrock aquifer,
June 1979, Occidental—Buffalo Avenue Plant,
sites 41b through 49, Niagara Falls 336
XI
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figure C-25. Map showing location of monitoring wells at TAM Ceramics,
site 51, Niagara Falls 338
G-26. Generalized geologic column of formations underlying
Olin 102nd Street Landfill, site 56, Niagara Falls 340
C-27 - C-29. Maps showing:
C-27. Profile of ground-water flow patterns and
contamination plume, Olin 102nd Street Landfill,
site 56, Niagara Falls 340
C-28. Water-table altitude at Olin 102nd Street,
site 56, Niagara Falls, January 15, 1979 341
C-29. Location of electromagnetic-conductivity survey
lines at Olin Industrial Welding Corporation,
site 57, Niagara Falls 342
C-30. Graphs showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at Olin Industrial Welding Corportion, site 57,
Niagara Falls, lines 1 through 8 343
C-31 - C-32. Maps showing:
C-31. Location of monitoring wells at Olin Buffalo
Avenue, sites 58, 59, and 248, Niagara Falls 346
C-32. Location of sampling holes and electromagnetic-
conductivity survey lines at Stauffer Chemical—
Art Park Site, site 63, Lewiston 352
C-33. Graph showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at Stauffer Chemical—Art Park Site, site 63,
Lewiston 353
Figures C-34 - C-36. Maps showing:
C-34. Location of monitoring wells at Reichhold-
Varcum Chemical Division, site 66, Niagara Falls.. 356
C-35. Location of sampling holes at Lynch Park,
site 76, Wheatfield 359
C-36. Altitudes of bedrock and ground-water in aquifer
and confining unit at Cecos and Niagara Cycling
(NEWCO), sites 78a and 78b, Niagara Falls 363
xii
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ILLUSTRATIONS (continued)
Page
Figures C-49 - C-52. Maps showing:
C-49. Location of sampling holes at Witmer Road, site 90,
Niagara Falls 397
C-50. Location of sampling holes at Niagara Frontier
Transportation Authority, site 92, Wheatfield 400
C-51. Location of monitoring wells at Niagara River—
Belden site, site 94, Wheatfield 402
C-52. Location of surface-water samples and electro-
magnetic-conductivity survey at Old Creek Bed
(Dibacco no. 1), site 95, Niagara ,.... 404
C-53. Graphs showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at Old Creek Bed (Dibacco no. 1), site 95,
Niagara, lines 1, 2, and 3 406
C-54 - C-59. Maps showing:
C-54. Location of sampling holes at Silbergeld Junk
Yard, site 100, Niagara Falls 409
C~55. Location of sampling holes at Rodeway Inn,
site 237, Niagara Falls 410
C-56. Location of sampling holes at St. Mary's School,
site 238, Niagara Falls 412
C-57. Location of monitoring wells and sampling holes at
97th St. Methodist Church, site 245, Niagara Falls. 416
C-58. Location of monitoring wells at Solvent Chemical,
site 251, Niagara Falls 419
C-59. Location of sampling holes and electromagnetic-
conductivity survey at Stauffer Chemical Plant,
PASNY, site 255, Lewiston 423
C-60. Graphs showing results of electromagnetic-conductivity
survey at Stauffer Chemical Plant, PASNY, site 255,
Lewiston, lines 1 through 3 425
xiii
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TABLES
Page
Table 1.—Substrate and water-sample data, 1982-83 6
2.—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency list of recommended
priority pollutants 10
3.—Detection limits and estimated accuracy and precision for
water and substrate samples from Niagara River waste-disposal
sites, 1982 14
4.—Sampling and analysis procedures for experimental constituents 15
5.—Organic compounds identified as a naturally occurring,
possibly naturally occurring, or possible artifact compounds
in ground water, surface water, and substrates, 1982 18
6.—Contamination of quality-assurance water blanks, 1982 20
7.—Surrogate recoveries from water blanks 22
8.—Quality-assurance results for waste-disposal sites 23
9.—Surrogate recoveries for ground-water samples from
bedrock wells in Niagara Falls, N.Y., December 1982-
January 1983 28
10.—Surrogate recoveries for ground-water samples from wells
in the unconsolidated deposits along the Niagara River,
Robert Moses Parkway, N.Y. , January 1983 29
11.—Surrogate recoveries for ground-water samples from
wells used to characterize area water quality; Buffalo,
Tonawanda, and Niagara Falls, N.Y. , November 1982 29
12.—Sites designated as having a major potential for
contaminant migration to ground water 31
13.—Heavy-metal concentrations in samples from undisturbed
soils in Buffalo, N.Y. , June 1, 1983 40
14.—Analyses of a ground-water sample from well SA-9 in
the unconsolidated deposits along Seneca Street, West
Seneca, N.Y. , November 13, 1982 41
15.—Heavy metal concentrations in substrate samples from
undisturbed soils in Tonawanda, N.Y., May 31, 1983
and June 1, 1983 45
16.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in the
unconsolidated deposits along the Niagara River, Tonawanda,
N.Y., November 13, 1982 46
xiv
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TABLES (continued)
Page
Table 17.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in unconsolidated
deposits along the Niagara River, Niagara Falls, N.Y. ,
November 10, 1983 58
18.—Analyses of ground-water samples from unconsolidated deposits
along the Niagara River-Robert Moses Parkway, Niagara Falls,
N.Y., January 13, 1983 61
19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y., December 1982-January 1983 64
20.—Heavy metal concentration in samples obtained from
undisturbed soils in Niagara Falls, N.Y., May 31, 1983 and
June 1, 1983 70
21.—Potential for contaminant migration from sites studied 71
22.—Sites that have a major potential for contaminant migration.. 74
23.—Sampling summary 79
Buffalo Area (Appendix A)
Table A-l. Analyses of ground-water samples from Allied Chemical,
site 107, Buffalo, N.Y. , July 19, 1982 92
A-2. Analyses of substrate samples from Anaconda Company,
site 113, Buffalo, N.Y 95
A-3. Water-level measurements in monitoring wells at Bethlehem
Steel, site 118, Lackawanna, N.Y., July through December
1980 99
A-4. Pumping-test analyses of selected wells at Bethlehem Steel,
site 118, in Lackawanna, N.Y 99
A-5. Analyses of ground-water samples from the Bethlehem Steel,
site 118, Lackawanna, N.Y., July through December 1980 100
A-6. Analyses of substrate samples from Hanna Furnace, site 135,
Buffalo, N.Y., August 2, 1982 106
A-7. Analyses of substrate samples from McNaughton Brooks, site
138, Buffalo, N.Y 109
A-8. Analyses of substrate samples from Houdaille Industries,
site 140, Buffalo, N.Y 113
xv
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TABLES (continued)
Page
Ta>>le A-9. Analyses of substrate samples from Mobil Oil, site 141,
Buffalo, N.Y 116
A-10. Analyses of soil samples from Pratt and Letchworth, site
146, Buffalo, N.Y., 1982 119
A-ll. Analyses of substrate and surface-water samples from Ramco
Steel, site 147, Buffalo, N.Y. , July 22, 1982 121
A-12. Water levels in five deep monitoring wells on Republic
Steel, site 148, Buffalo, N.Y 122
A-13. Analyses of ground-water and surface-water samples from
Republic Steel, site 148, Buffalo, N.Y., July 22-23, 1982 123
A-14. Analyses of ground-water samples from wells screened above
glaciolacustrine clay at Alltift landfill, site 162,
Buffalo, N.Y., July 1978 129
A-15. Analyses of ground-water samples from four wells screened
below glaciolacustrine clay at Alltift Landfill, site 162,
Buffalo, N.Y., May 1982 131
A~16. Analyses of substrate samples from Empire Waste, site 173,
Buffalo, N.Y., July 30, 1982 133
A-17. Analyses of substrate samples from Lehigh Valley Railroad,
site 190, Buffalo, N.Y. , July-August 1982 138
A-18. Analyses of substrate samples from Niagara Frontier Port
Authority, site 196, Buffalo, N.Y. , August 5, 1982 141
A~19. Analyses of surface-water and substrate samples from Procknal
and Katra, site 200, Blasdell, N.Y., April 27, 1982 143
A-20. Analyses of substrate samples from Squaw Island, site 203,
Buffalo, N.Y 147
A~21. Analyses of substrate samples from Donner Hanna Coke, site
217, Buffalo, N.Y 153
A-22. Analyses of substrate samples from West Seneca Transfer
Station, Buffalo, N.Y. , August 26, 1982 156
A-23. Range at.d mean concentration of selected metals in 16 sediment
samples trom Times Beach containment site, site 241, Buffalo,
N.Y 159
A-24. Analyses of 16 sediment samples from Times Beach containment
site, site 241, Buffalo, N.Y 160
xvi
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TABLES (continued)
Page
Table A-25. Analyses of water samples from Times Beach Containment Site,
site 241, Buffalo, N.Y. , January 11, 1983 161
A-26. Analyses of substrate samples from Allied Chemical (Hurwitz-
Ranne), site 249, Hopkins Street, Buffalo, N.Y 165
A-27. Analyses of water samples from Small Boat Harbor Containment
Site, site 253, Buffalo, N.Y. , January 11, 1983 169
A-28.- Analyses of water samples from the Buffalo Harbor Containment
Site, site 254, Lackawanna, N.Y., January 10, 1983 172
Tonawanda Area
B-l. Analyses of ground-water and sediment samples from Buffalo
Pumps Division, site 6, North Tonawanda, N.Y., June 21, 1982 177
B-2. Water-table altitudes in wells at Occidental Chemical-Durez,
sites 24-37, North Tonawanda, N.Y., 1980 180
B-3. Analyses of samples from monitoring wells at Occidental
Cheraical-Durez, sites 24-37, North Tonawanda, N.Y 181
B-4. Analyses of surface-water samples from National Grinding
Wheel, site 50, North Tonawanda, N.Y., April 6, 1979 185
B-5. Analyses of water samples from National Grinding Wheel,
site 50, North Tonawanda, N.Y 186
B-6. Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and substrate
samples from Frontier Chemical, site 67, Pendelton, N.Y 189
B-7. Analyses of ground-water samples from Gratwick Riverside
Park, site 68, North Tonawanda, N.Y., July 28, 1982 191
B-8. Analyses of ground-water, surface-water and sediment samples
from Holiday Park, site 72, North Tonawanda, N.Y. , June 19,
1982 to July 9, 1982 196
B-9. Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Nash
Road, site 93, Wheatfield, N.Y. , June 24, 1982 204
B-10. Analyses of substrate samples from R. P. Adams Co., site
103, Tonawanda, N.Y. , August 11, 1982 209
B-ll. Analyses of substrate samples from Allied Chemical, site
105, Tonawanda, N.Y 211
B-12. Analyses of soil samples from Allied Chemical, site 106,
Tonawanda, N.Y 214
xvii
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TABLES (continued)
Page
Table B-13. Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and substrate
samples from Tonawanda Coke, site 108, Tonawanda, N.Y 216
B-14. Analyses of surface-water, ground-water and substrate samples
from Tonawanda Coke, site 109, Tonawanda, N.Y 219
B-15. Analyses of substrate samples from Tonawanda Coke, site 110,
Tonawanda, N.Y. , May 24, 1983 223
B-16. Analyses of substrate samples from Aluminum Match Plate,
site 111, Tonawanda, N.Y. , July 20, 1982 226
B-17. Total polychlorinated biphenyl concentration in soil samples
from Columbus McKinnon Corporation, site 123, Tonawanda, N.Y. 229
B-18. Concentrations of total halogenated organic compounds (THO)
in soil samples from Columbus McKinnon Corporation, site 123,
Tonawanda, N.Y 230
B-19. Concentration of polychlorinated biphenyls and total
halogenated organic compounds in soil samples from Columbus
McKinnon Corporation, site 123, Tonawanda, N.Y 230
B-20. Analyses of soil samples from Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company,
sites 125, 126, and 127, Tonawanda, N.Y. , July 1982 232
B-21. Analyses of ground-water samples from Dupont Company,
site 128, Tonawanda, N.Y. , August 18, 1982 237
B-22. Analyses of substrate samples from FMC, site 131, Sawyer
Street, Tonawanda, N.Y 241
B-23. Analyses of substrate samples from INS Equipment
Corporation, site 136, Tonawanda, N.Y., August 10, 1982 245
B-24. Analyses of substrate samples from Pennwalt-Lucidol
Division, site 137, Tonawanda, N.Y., July 30, 1982 249
B-25. Analyses of substrate sample at 6-ft depth from Roblin Steel,
site 149, Tonawanda, N.Y. , August 10, 1982 251
B-26. Analyses of substrate samples from Shanco Plastics, sites
150 and 151, Tonawanda, N.Y. , May 31, 1983 253
B-27. Permeability coefficients from test borings at Spaulding
Fibre Company, sites 154 and 155, Tonawanda, N.Y 256
B-28. Analyses of water from monitoring wells at Spaulding Fibre
Company, site 154, Tonawanda, N.Y 258
xviii
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TABLES (continued)
Page
Table B-29. Analyses of substrate samples from Spaulding Fibre, site
155, Tonawanda, N.Y. , July 21, 1982 259
B-30. Analyses of substrate samples from J. H. Williams, site
160, Tonawanda, N.Y., July 29, 1982 261
B-31. Analyses of ground-water samples from Chemical Leaman Tank
Lines, site 167, Tonawanda, N.Y., July 19, 1982.. 262
B-32. Analyses of substrate samples from Huntley Power Station,
site 182, Tonawanda, N.Y 269
B-33. Analyses of substrate samples from William Strassman
Property, site 204, Tonawanda, N.Y., May 24, 1983 278
B-34. Analyses of leachate from City of Tonawanda Landfill,
site 207, Tonawanda, N.Y., 1980-81 281
B-35. Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and substrate
samples from City of Tonawanda Landfill, site 207,
Tonawanda, N.Y. , July-August 1982 282
B-36. Analyses of ground-water samples from Botanical Gardens,
site 243, North Tonawanda, N.Y. , June 18, 1982 286
B-37. Analyses of ground-water, and substrate samples from
Creekside Golf Course, site 252, Amherst, N.Y., August 25,
1982 288
Niagara Falls Area
C-l. Analyses of substrate samples from Airco Speer Carbon-
Graphite, site 2, Wheatfield, N.Y 292
C-2. Analyses of substrate samples from Basic Carbon, site 4,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., May 26, 1983 294
C-3. Analyses of substrate samples from Bell Aerospace Textron,
site 5, Wheatfield, N.Y. , July 1, 1982 296
C-4. Phenol concentrations in ground-water samples from Carborundum
Abrasive Division, site 9, Wheatfield, N.Y. , 1981 300
C-5. Analyses of substrate samples from Chisholm Ryder, site 11,
Niagara Falls, N.Y 302
C-6. Analyses of ground-water samples from Lockport Dolomite
at Dupont, Necco Park, site 14, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,
June 25, 1982 306
xix
-------
TABLES (continued)
Page
Table C-7. Analyses of substrate samples from Frontier Bronze,
site 21, Niagara Falls, N.Y 310
C-8. Analyses of surface-water and substrate samples from Great
Lakes Carbon, site 22, Niagara Falls, N.Y. , June 28, 1982... 312
C-9. Chemical data from well 77A in the southwest part of
site 38 317
C-10. Type of chemical wastes deposited at the Occidental Chemical-
Hyde Park Landfill, site 39, Niagara Falls, N.Y., 1953-79... 319
C-ll. Permeability of overburden at Occidental Chemical-Hyde Park
Landfill, site 39, Niagara Falls, N.Y 323
C-12. Results of permeability tests at Occidental Chemical,
Buffalo Avenue Plant, sites 41b-49, Niagara Falls,
N.Y., January 7-8, 1980 337
C~13. U.S. Geological Survey analyses of substrate samples from
Olin parking lot and Olin mercury ponds, sites 58, 59, and
248, Niagara Falls, N.Y. , August 9, 1982 349
C-14. Site owner's analyses of substrate split samples from Olin
parking lot and Olin mercury ponds, sites 58, 59, and 248,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., August 9, 1982 350
C-15. Analyses of ground-water samples from Union Carbide, site
64, Niagara Falls, N.Y. , August 29, 1982 354
C-16. Analyses of ground water from Reichhold Varcum Chemical
Division, site 66, Niagara Falls, N.Y., June-July 1982 357
C-17. Analyses of substrate samples from Lynch Park, site 76,
Wheatfield, N.Y. , June 19, 1982 359
C-18, Analyses of ground-water samples from Modern Disposal,
site 77, Model City, N.Y. , August 19, 1982 360
C-19. Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Niagara
County Refuse Disposal, site 81, Wheatfield, N.Y. , June-
August 1982 369
C-20. Analyse, of surface water and bottom samples taken from
drainage ditches at Niagara County Refuse Disposal, site
81, Wheatfield, N.Y 371
C-21. Analyses of substrate samples from Adams Generating Plant,
site 82, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 27, 1982 378
-------
TABLES (continued)
Page
Table C-22. Analyses of substrate samples from Buffalo Avenue, site
83, Niagara Falls, N.Y 381
C-23. Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Cayuga
Island, site 84, Niagara Falls, N.Y 384
C-24. Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Griffon
Park, site 85, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 12, 1982 386
C-25. Analyses of ground-water sample from the Hydraulic Canal,
site 86, Niagara Falls, N.Y. , January 14, 1983 390
C-26. Analyses of ground-water samples from New Road, site 87,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 8, 1982 392
C-27. Analyses of substrate samples from south site, 64th Street,
site 88, Niagara Falls, N.Y. , August 11, 1982 394
C-28. Analyses of substrate samples from north site, 64th Street,
site 88, Niagara Falls, N.Y. , August 11, 1982 395
C-29. Analyses of substrate samples from Whitraer Road, site 90,
Niagara Falls, N.Y 398
C-30. Analyses of substrate samples from Niagara Frontier
Transportation Authority, site 92, Wheatfield, N.Y.,
July 27, 1982 401
C-31. Analyses of ground-water samples from Niagara River-Belden
site, site 94, Wheatfield, N.Y. , June 26, 1982 403
C-32. Analyses of surface-water samples from Old Creek Bed,
(Dibacco), site 95, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 9, 1982 405
C-33. Analyses of substrate samples from Silbergeld Junk Yard,
site 100, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 8, 1982 409
C-34. Analyses of substrate samples from Rodeway Inn, site 237,
Niagara Falls, N.Y 411
C-35. Analyses of substrate samples from St. Mary's School,
site 238, Niagara Falls, N.Y 413
C-36. Analyses of substrate and ground-water samples from 97th
Street Methodist Church, site 245, Niagara Falls, N.Y. ,
August 27, 1982 417
C-37. Analyses of ground water samples from Solvent Chemical,
site 251, Niagara Falls, N.Y. , July-August 1980 421
C-38. Analyses of substrate samples from Stauffer Chemical,
site 255, Lewiston, N.Y. , August 12, 1982 424
xx i
-------
CONVERSION FACTORS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Factors for converting inch-pound units used in
System (SI) units are shown below.
To convert inch-pound unit
inch (in)
foot (ft)
mile (mi)
Multiply by
Length
2.54
0.3048
1.609
this report to International
To obtain SI unit
centimeter (cm)
meter (m)
kilometer (km)
square foot (ft2)
square mile (mi2)
acre
cubic yard (yd3)
gallon (gal)
Area
0.0929
2.590
0.4047
Volume
0.76456
3.7854
Flow
million gallons per day (Mgal/d) 3785.434
Weight to mass
pound (Ib)
ton
parts per million
parts per billion (ppb)
parts per billion (ppb)
micromhos per centimeter at
25°C (umho/cm at 258C)
+2% of value for + 1°C
feet per mile (ft/mi)
453.6
907.2
Concentration
approximately 1
approximately 1
approximately 1
540 to 960
square meter (m2)
square kilometer (km2)
hectare (ha)
cubic meter
liter (L)
cubic meters per day (m^/d)
grams (g)
kilograms (kg)
milligrams per liter
micrograms per kilogram ug/kg)
micrograms per liter (ug/L)
micrograms per liter (pg/L)
meters per kilometer (m/km)
Datum
NATIONAL GEODETIC VERTICAL DATUM OF 1929 (NGVD)—Formerly called SEA LEVEL
DATUM 1929. A geodetic datum derived from a general adjustment of the first-
order level nets of both the United States and Canada. In the adjustment, sea
levels from selected TIDE stations in both countries were held as fixed. The
year indicates the time of the last general adjustment. This datum should not
be confused with MEAN SEA LEVEL.
Disclaimer
Use of trade names herein is for identification purposes only and does not
constitute endorsement by the U.S. Geological Survey.
xxii
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LIST OF SITES STUDIED
Page
Buffalo Area (Appendix A)
Allied Chemical, site 107, NYSDEC 915004 92
Anaconda, site 113, NYSDEC 915007 93
Bethlehem Steel, site 118, NYSDEC 915009 97
Buffalo Color, sites 120-122, NYSDEC 915012-a,b,c 101
Fedders Automotive Component Company, site 132, NYSDEC 915024 104
Hanna Furnace, site 135, NYSDEC 915029 104
McNaughton Brooks, site 138, NYSDEC 915034 107
Houdaille Industries-Manzel Division, site 140, NYSDEC 915037 Ill
Mobil Oil, site 141, NYSUEC 915040 114
Mollenberg-Betz, site 142, NYSUEC 915041 117
Otis Elevator, site 144, NYSDEC 915073 118
Pratt and Letchworth, site 146, NYSDEC 915045 119
Ramco Steel, site 147, NYSDEC 91504b 120
Republic Steel, site 148, NYSDEC 915047 122
Alltift Landfill, site 162, NYSDEC 915054 126
Empire Waste, site 173, NYSDEC 915065 132
Hopkins Street, site 180, NYSDEC 915011 134
Kelly Island, site 184, NYSDEC 915095 134
Lehigh Valley Railroad, site 190, NYSDEC 915781 135
Niagara Frontier Port Authority, site 196, NYSDEC 915026 140
Procknal & Katra, site 200, NYSDEC 915085 142
Squaw Island, site 203, NYSDEC 915052 145
Tifft Farm, site 206, NYSDEC 915072 150
Erie Basin Marina, site 216, NYSDEC 915013 150
Donner Hanna Coke, site 217, NYSDEC 915017 150
Hartwell Street Landfill, site 219, NYSDEC 915030 155
West Seneca Transfer Station, site 220, NYSDEC 915039 155
Times Beach Containment Site, site 241, NYSDEC 915080 157
Allied Chemical, Hurwitz-Ranne, site 249, NYSDEC 915120 163
Small Boat Harbor Containment Site, site 253 167
Buffalo Harbor Containment Site, site 254 170
Tonawanda Area (Appendix B)
Buffalo Pumps Division, site 6, NYSDEC 932044 176
Occidental Chemical-Durez Division, sites 24-37, NYSDEC 93218 178
National Grinding Wheel, site 50, NYSDEC 932066 Ib3
Roblin Steel Company, site 60, NYSDEC 932059 186
Frontier Chemical-Pendelton, site 67, NYSDEC 932043 187
Gratwick, site 68, NYSDEC 932060 190
Holiday Park, site 72 194
Nash Road, site 93, NYSDEC 932054 200
R. P. Adams, site 103, NYSDEC 915001 208
Allied Chemical, Tonawanda, site 105, NYSDEC 915003-b 210
Allied Chemical, Tonawanda, site 106, NYSDEC 915003-c 213
Tonawanda Coke, site 108, NYSDEC 915055-a 214
Tonawanda Coke, site 109, NYSDEC 915055-b 218
Tonawanda Coke, site 110, NYSDEC 915055-c 222
xxiii
-------
LIST OF SITES STUDIED (continued)
Tonawanda area (continued) Page
Aluminum Match Plate, site 111, NYSDEC 915055 224
Ashland Petroleum, site 114, NYSDEC 915061 226
Ashland Petroleum, site 115, NYSDEC 915008-c 226
Ashland Petroleum, site 116, NYSDEC 915008-a 227
Ashland Petroleum, site 117, NYSDEC 915008-b 227
Columbus McKinnon, site 123, NYSDEC 915016 228
Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company, sites 125-127, NYSDEC 915018-a,b,c . . . 231
Dupont Company, site 128 235
Exolon Corporation, site 130, NYSDEC 915023 239
FMC Corporation, site 131, NYSDEC 915025 239
INS Equipment Corporation, site 136 243
Pennwalt-Lucidol Division, site 137, NYSDEC 915035 248
0-Cel-O, site 143 250
Roblin Steel, site 149, NYSDEC 915036 250
Shanco Plastics, sites 150-151, NYSDEC 915048 251
Spaulding Fibre, sites 153-155-a,b, NYSDEC 915050-a,d 254
Union Carbide, site 158 250
J. H. Williams, site 160, NYSDEC 915057 260
Chemical Leaman, site 167, NYSDEC 915014 262
Huntley Power Station, site 182, NYSDEC 915063 263
Seaway Industrial Park, site 201, NYSDEC 915074 275
William Strassman, site 204, NYSDEC 915083 277
City of Tonawanda Landfill, site 207, NYSDEC 915079 279
Veteran's Park, site 208, NYSDEC 915078 284
Air Force Plant no. 40, site 211, NYSDEC 915067 284
Botanical Gardens, site 243, NYSDEC 932068 284
Creekside Golf Course, site 252, NYSDEC 915123 286
Niagara Falls Area (Appendix C)
Airco Alloys, site 1, NYSDEC 932001 290
Airco Speer Carbon-Graphite, site 2, NYSDEC 932002 290
Basic Carbon Co., site 4, NYSDEC 932004 293
Bell Aerospace, site 5, NYSDEC 932052 295
Carborundum, Bldg. 89, site 7, NYSDEC 932048-a 297
Carborundum, Bldg. 82, site 8, NYSDEC 932048-b 298
Carborundum, Abrasive Division, site 9, NYSDEC 932007 298
Carborundum, Globar Plant, site 10, NYSDEC 932036 300
Chisholm Ryder, site 11, NYSDEC 932009 300
Dupont, Necco Park, site 14, NYSDEC 932047 304
Dupont, Buffalo Avenue, sites 15, 19, 250, NYSDEC 932013a-f 308
Frontier Bronze, site 21, NYSDEC 932015 309
Great Lakes Carbon, site 22, NYSDEC 932016 311
Occidental-Love Canal, site 38, NYSDEC 932020 313
Occidental-Hyde Park, site 39, NYSDEC 932021 318
Occidental-102d Street, site 40, NYSDEC 932022 324
Occidental Area, site 41a, NYSDEC 932019-a 325
Occidental-Buffalo Avenue Plant, sites 41b-49, NYSDEC 932019b-c 332
xxiv
-------
LIST OF SITES STUDIED (continued)
Niagara Falls area (continued) Page
TAM Ceramics, site 51, NYSDEC 932028 337
Olin-102d Street Landfill, site 56, NYSDEC 932031 339
Olin-Industrial Welding, site 57, NYSDEC 932050 342
Olin-Buffalo Avenue, sites 58, 59, 248, NYSDEC 932051-a,b, 932038. ... 346
Stauffer Chemical, North Love Canal, site 62, NYSDEC 932034 351
Stauffer-Art Park, site 63, NYSDEC 932049 351
Union Carbide, site 64, NYSDEC 932035 353
Reichhold-Varcum, site 66, NYSDEC 932040 354
La Salle Expressway, site 73, NYSDEC 932067 357
Lynch Park, site 76, NYSDEC 932006 358
Modern Disposal Services, site 77, NYSDEC 932025 360
Cecos and Niagara Recycling, sites 78a, 78b, NYSDEC 932046, 932042 ... 361
Power Authority Road Site, site 79, NYSDEC 952091 367
Niagara County Refuse Disposal, site 81, NYSDEC 932026 367
Adams Generating Plant, site 82, NYSDEC 932079 376
Buffalo Avenue, site 83, NYSDEC 932080 379
Cayuga Island, site 84, NYSDEC 932008 383
Griffon Park, site 85, NYSDEC 932081 385
Hydraulic Canal, site 86, NYSDEC 932082 390
New Road, site 87, NYSDEC 932083 391
64th Street, site 88, NYSDEC 932085 393
Whirlpool Site, site 89, NYSDEC 932088 396
Witmer Road, site 90, NYSDEC 932027 397
Town of Niagara Landfill, site 91, NYSDEC 932089 399
Niagara Falls Transportation Authority, site 92, NYSDEC 932090 399
Niagara River, Belden, site 94, NYSDEC 932055 401
Old Creek Bed, Dibacco, site 95, NYSDEC 932056-a 404
Robert Moses Parkway, site 96, NYSDEC 932067 408
Silbergeld Junk Yard, site 100, NYSDEC 932093 408
Rodeway Inn, site 237, NYSDEC 932086 410
St. Marys School, site 238, NYSDEC 932087 412
Charles Gibson Site, site 242, NYSDEC 932063 414
93rd Street School, site 244, NYSDEC 932078 415
97th Street Methodist Church, site 245, NYSDEC 932084 416
Olin Deep Well, site 247, NYSDEC 932037 418
Solvent Chemical, site 251 418
Stauffer-Power Authority of State of New York, site 255,
NYSDEC 932053 422
XXV
-------
Preliminary Evaluation of Chemical Migration
To Groundwater and the Niagara River
From Selected Waste-Disposal Sites
by
Edward J. Koszalka, James E. Paschal, Jr.,
Todd S. Miller, and Philip B. Duran
ABSTRACT
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency and the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation, made a preliminary hydrogeologic and chemical evaluation of 138
known toxic waste-disposal sites along the United States side of the Niagara
River from Lake Erie to Lewiston, approximately 20 miles downstream. The pur-
pose of the investigation was to identify sites that are a possible source of
contamination to the ground-water system.
The 138 sites were grouped into three areas—Buffalo, Tonawanda, and Niagara
Falls. Results from the geologic and hydrologic investigations and chemical
analyses are as follows:
Buffalo area.—25 sites were studied, of which 19 were drilled and sampled, and
6 evaluated through a literature review. Of the 25 sites, 10 were designated as
having a major potential for contaminant migration.
Tonawanda area.—50 sites were studied, of which 29 were drilled and sampled,
and 21 evaluated through a literature review. Of the 50 sites, 20 were
designated as having a major potential for chemical migration.
Niagara Falls area.—63 sites were studied, of which 31 were drilled and
sampled, and 32 evaluated through a literature review. Of the 63 sites, (31
were designated as having a major potential for contaminant migration.
INTRODUCTION
United States and Canadian monitoring of the Niagara River, which flows 37
miles north from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, has indicated the presence of con-
tamination. A report issued in March 1979 by an Interagency Task Force on
Hazardous Waste, composed of representatives of the New York State Department
of Environmental Conservation, the New York State Department of Health, and the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, identified 215 hazardous waste-disposal
sites in Erie and Niagara,Counties. Of these and additional sites identified
since 1979, 164 are within a strip 3 miles wide along the east bank of the
Niagara River (fig. 1). The possibility that toxic substances from these sites
could migrate to the ground-water system and from there to the Niagara River and
into Lake Ontario has become of increasing concern in recent years.
-------
PLATE 3
NIAGARA FALLS
• NORTH TONAWANDA
I
•TONAWANDA
Base from US Geological Survey, 1974
Figure 1. Location of study area in Erie and Niagara Counties-
-------
Effective remedial action requires information on the hydrogeology and the
potential for migration of contaminants into the ground water.
Purpose and Scope
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), began a preliminary hydrogeologic eval-
uation of 138 of the 164 known toxic waste-disposal sites along the Niagara
River from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, on the United States side of the river.
The main objectives of the investigation were to evaluate the hydrogeology and
potential for chemical migration to ground water at the 138 sites. Test
drilling and core analysis were done at selected sites to obtain information
on the composition of the overburden, and ground-water and core samples were
collected and analyzed to identify the substances present and their con-
centration. The location and extent of the disposal area at some sites were
unknown; therefore, some wells and test holes may not have been installed at
the most significant locations.
The project was limited to preliminary investigations only and was not
designed to assess the actual effect of ground-water contamination on the
Niagara River nor to establish whether contaminant migration has actually
occurred.
This report presents the hydrologic and chemical data collected during the
investigation, describes the probable ground-water flow patterns as inferred
from the available data, and categorizes each site in terms of its potential
for contaminant migration. It also contains suggestions for future studies to
evaluate the regional effects of contaminant migration on the Niagara River.
Acknowledgments
This report was done in cooperation with the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The
authors express special thanks to NYSDEC, Region 9, particularly John McMahon,
Peter Buechi, and their technical staff, for assistance during the field
investigations and for report review. Thanks are also extended to the members
of USEPA Great Lakes National Program Office (GLNPO) and Region II.
Appreciation is extended to Vacys Saulys (GLNPO) and to Rolland Hemmett and
Gerard McKenna of USEPA, Region II, for technical guidance and report review.
Thanks are also extended to Donald Campbell of Erie County Department of
Environment and Planning, and Michael Hopkins of Niagara County Health
Department, for help in the field investigation of several sites and for their
review of this report.
Thanks are also extended to the contract drillers.
-------
METHODS OF INVESTIGATION
The region was divided on the basis of disposal-site density into three
areas—Buffalo, Tonawanda, and Niagara Falls (fig. 1). The Buffalo area (pi.
1) extends from Lackawanna to the northern boundary of the city of Buffalo;
most of the sites are concentrated in the southern part of Buffalo. The
Tonawanda area (pi. 2) begins at the northern boundary of Buffalo and extends
to the western boundary of the city of North Tonawanda; in this area the sites
are distributed evenly. The Niagara Falls area (pi. 3) extends from the
western boundary of North Tonawanda to the mouth of the Niagara River; most
sites in this area are concentrated within the city of Niagara Falls.
Prior to this study, consultants had done subsurface hydrogeologic and
chemical-contaminant investigations at 59 of the 164 sites. The consultant
reports were reviewed in this study, but those sites were not included in the
1982 field investigation. Another 26 sites were omitted from the field
studies because NYSDEC reported that they did not warrant an investigation,
either because the materials deposited were not considered hazardous or
because the site location could not be determined. The remaining 79 sites
required subsurface hydrogeologic investigations and chemical analyses to
identify which sites are possible sources of ground-water contamination.
During the summer of 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey did test drilling and
core sampling at the 79 latter sites and collected ground-water samples
and(or) samples of unconsolidated materials for interpretation of contaminant
migration. Electromagnetic surveys were done at several sites at which the
extent of the disposal area was uncertain to help define the extent of
leachate plumes or locate the boundaries of fill areas. The number of sites
in each area and the type of investigations done are summarized below. The
site names, site numbers, and potential for ground-water contamination are
given in the individual site descriptions in appendices.
Number of sites
Field
Area investigations
Buffalo
Tonawanda
Niagara Falls
19
29
31
Literature
review only
6
21
32
Investigations
not needed (as
determined by NYSDEC) Total
8
10
8
33
60
71
TOTAL
79
59
26
164
Several tasks, needed to achieve the objectives of the study are described
below.
Individual Site Studies
Assignment of Site Numbers
Each site has been assigned two numbers. The first is a site-designation
number from 1 to 254 given by the New York State Department of Environmental
-------
Conservation (NYSDEC) as a local identifier in Erie and Niagara Counties. The
second is a six-digit NYSDEC registration number for regional and county iden-
tification. The short number is used throughout the text and on the plates for
identification; the six-digit number is given at the beginning of each site
description in the appendices for reference.
Literature Review
Geohydrologic and chemical data provided by the USEPA, NYSDEC, USGS, con-
sultants to the site owner, or the site operator were used for a preliminary
evaluation of 59 sites to determine their potential for contaminant migration.
Site evaluations based on these sources are included among the site descriptions
in the appendices.
Drilling and Coring
Test holes were drilled in the overburden of the deposition area at each of
the 79 sites previously identified as containing hazardous waste to assess the
potential for contaminant migration. These holes were drilled by a truck-
mounted auger rig. The depth of the holes varied, depending upon the thickness
of a saturated zone (if encountered), the presence of a tight confining unit,
the depth of known waste burial, or the depth determined necessary to describe
hydrogeologic conditions at the site.
Core samples were collected where possible to delineate the site geology and
zones of potential contaminant migration. A monitoring well was installed in
each test hole that intersected the water table to obtain a water sample. Wells
consisted of a 1.5-in O.D. black iron casing with a 1.25-in-diam. 2-ft-long
slotted black iron screen. At sites where the water table was not encountered,
a substrate sample was collected in a zone of potential contaminant migration.
Geologic logs of the test borings are included in the site descriptions.
Substrate and Water Sampling
Ground water, surface water, and(or) substrates were sampled on the 79
sites. (The term substrates, as used here, means any unconsolidated materials
such as soil, sediment, till, or artificial fill.) All sampling was done
according to a quality-assurance/quality-control plan acceptable to the NYSDEC,
USEPA, and USGS. The methods used to collect samples, the quality-control pro-
cedures, and the results of quality-control analysis are described at the end of
this section.
The heavy metals and(or) organic compounds to be analyzed in each sample
were selected by NYSDEC. Selection was based upon knowledge of buried chemicals
and records of disposal operations. Substrate samples were analyzed only for
acid-leachable metals (not total); water samples were analyzed for total
recover-able metals and for organic compounds. Surface-water samples were
collected from onsite streams or adjacent drainage ditches. The number of test
holes drilled, number of samples collected, and the chemical constituents and
compounds analyzed are listed in table 1.
-------
Table 1.—Substrate and water-sample data, 1982-83.
(Site locations are shown in plates 1-3.)
Site name
Buffalo Area
Hanna Furnace
Allied Chemical
Anaconda
McNaughton Brooks
Division
Mobil Oil
Ramco Steel
Republic Steel [
Lehigh Valley Railroad
Niagara Frontier
Port Authority
Squaw Island
Donner Hanna Coke
West Seneca
Transfer Station
Containment Site1
Hied Chemical
(Hurwi tz-Ranne)
Hopkins Street
Small Boat Harbor
Buffalo Harbor
Buffalo area totals
Site
number
035
107
113
138
140
141
144
147
148
190
196
203
217
220
249
19 site
Sampling
date
08-02-82
07-19-82
07-28-82
05-29-83
08-05-82
08-06-82
05-20-83
08-06-82
Q8-30-82
07-22-82
07-22-82
07-19-82
08-05-82
07-29-82
05-18-83
08-05-82
05-18-83
08-26-82
08-11-82
05-18-83
8
Number of
test Number of
holes previous
drilled wells
7
3
4
4
4
4 -
4
8
3
7
20
4
8
2 -
4
4 -
4
6
6 -
121 10
Number of
water samples Number of
Ground Surface substrate
water water samples
8
3 - -
- - 4
4
4
4
2 4
6 1
20
— — 4
8
4
5
7
18 6 109
Type of analysis
GC/MS
Extractables
.
-
4
4
4
4
7
_
-
8
4
5
-
81
Volatiles
.
-
-
_
-
_
-
-
40
3 and number
As Cd Cr
8
- - 3
444
- 4 4
- - -
_
6
111
- 20 20
- 4 4
6
- - -
555
- - 7
32 60 90
of samples analyzed
Cu
8
3
4
_
4
_
6
7
20
4
6
-
5
-
Fe
8
3
4
4
4
4
6
7
20
4
6
4
5
7
83 102
Pb
8
3
4
4
4
4
6
7
20
4
-
-
5
-
85
Hg Hi V Zn CN S
3 3 - - 3
4 4 - 4 - -
_ _ _ _ _
4 _ - _ -
- - - _ -
_ _ _ _ ^ _
7 7 7 7 - -
- 20 - - - -
_ 4 _ _ _ -
- - - - -
- - - 4 -
5 5 - - - -
_ . - - - _ -
32 59 22 27 43
' Also analyzed for aluminum, antimony, barium, beryllium, boron, cobalt,'manganese, selenium, silver, thallium, and tin.
-------
Table 1.—Substrate and water-sample data, 1982-83 (continued)
(Site locations are shown in places 1-3.)
Site name
Tonawanda Area
Buffalo Pumps Division
Frontier Chemical-
Pendleton Site
Gratwick-Riverside
Park
Holiday Park
Nash Road
R. P. Adams Company
Allied Chemical,
Tonawanda
Tonawanda Coke
Tonawanda Coke
Tonawanda Coke
Aluminum Match Plate
Dunlop Tire & Rubber
Dupont Company
FMC Corporation
INS Equipment Corp.
Pennwalt-Lucidol
Division
Roblin Steel Company
Shan co Plastics
Spaulding Fibre
J. H. Williams Company
Chemical Leaman
Tank Lines
Huntley Power Station
William Strassman
Property
City of Tonavanda
Landfill
Botanical Gardens
Creekside Golf Course
Tonawanda area totals
Niagara Falls Area
Airco Speer Carbon-
Graphite
Basic Carbon Company
Bell Aerospace Textron
Chisholm Ryder
Site
number
006
067
068
072
093
103
105
108
109
110
111
125-27
128
131
136
137
149
150-51
155
160
167
182
204
207
243
252
002
004
005
Oil
Sampling
date
06-21-82
06-22-82
05-23-83
07-28-82
06-19-82
06-24-82
08-11-82
07-20-82
05-19-83
07-13-82
05-24-83
07-14-82
05-24-83
05-24-83
07-20-82
07-09-82
08-18-82
08-04-82
08-19-83
08-10-82
07-30-82
08-10-82
05-31-83
07-21-82
07-19-82
07-19-82
07-15-82
05-21-83
05-24-83
07- -83
06-19-82
08-25-82
29 sites
07-14-82
05-27-83
05-26-83
06-01-82
06-30-82
05-25-83
Number of
test
holes
drilled
2
3
2
7
4
4
4
4
3
2
1
3
3
4
4
4
4
10
4
1
4
4
4
13
16
4
8
3
129
4
3
2
2
3
3
Number of
previous
wells
5
4
3
2
14
-
Number of
water samples
Ground
water
2
2
5
7
2
1
1
5
3
2
3
2
35
-
Surface
water
2
4
1
1
2
2
12
-
Number of
substrate
samples
1
2
2
1
4
4
4
4
2
2
3
4
4
4
4
4
10
4
1
4
4
4
18
20
4
8
3
129
4
3
2
2
3
1
Type of analysis and number of samples analyzed
GC/MS
Extractables
3
2
5
12
6
4
4
4
4
2
2
3
4
4
4
5
4
4
10
4
4
4
3
20
4
10
3
5
143
4
3
2
3
3
Volatiles
2
5
4
2
1
3
4
4
4
4
20
4
57
3
2
1
As Cd Cr Cu Fe
- - 3 3 3
- 6 6 6 6
55555
- - - 12 12
66666
- - 4
444-4
- - - - 4
22222
- — — — 4
- - 4
- 10 10 - 10
11111
- - - - 3
- - 4
20 20 20 - 20
- 10 - 10
- - 3 3
38 54 67 38 105
- 2 2 2 2
3333
Pb Hg Hi V 2n CN S
- - 6 - 6 - -
5 5 5 - - - -
666----
4 4 4 - - - -
_ - _ 4 _
2 2 2 2 2 - -
4 - - - - -
- - 4 - -
10 ----- -
1 1 - - 1 - -
- - 3 _ _
4 ------
20 20 20 - - - -
-------
56 42 43 2 16 40
3 3 - - 3 - -
-------
Table 1.—Substrate and water-sample data, 1982-83 (continued)
(Site locations are shown in plates 1-3.)
OO
Site
Site name number
Niagara Falls Area (continued)
Sampling
date
Frontier Bronze 021 07-08-82
05-26-82
Great Lakes Carbon 022 06-28-82
Olin, Buffalo Avenue 058,59,
248 08-09-82
Art Park 063 07- -82
Union Carbide 064 08-29-82
Lynch Park 076 06-19-82
Modern Disposal
Services 077 08-19-82
Niagara County Refuse
Disposal Site 081 06- -82
Adams Generating Plant 082 07-27-82
05-28-83
Buffalo Avenue 083 06-25-82
05-28-83
Cayuga Island 084 01-12-83
05-28-83
Griffon Park 085 07-12-82
Hydraulic Canal 086 01-14-83
Sew Road Site ' 087 07-08-82
64th Street Site 088 08-11-82
05-29-83
Whirlpool Site 089 82
Witmer Road Site 090 06-29-82
05-25-83
Niagara Frontier Transportation
Authority 092 07-27-82
Niagara River Site
(Belden) 094 06-26-82
Old Creek Bed Dibacco1 095 07-09-82
Robert Hoses Parkway 098
Silbergeld Junk Yard 100 07-08-82
05-27-83
Rodeway Inn 237 06-29-82
05-29-83
Saint Marys School 238 08-12-82
05-29-83
97th Street Methodist
Church 245 08-27-82
Stauffer Chemical-Power Authority
State of New York 300 08-12-82
Niagara Falls area totals
Totals for all areas
31 sites
79 sites
Number of
test Number of
holes previous
drilled wells
2
2
3
10
3
3
11
4
4
9
6
1
1
4
1
4
2
1
2
2
2
2
6
2
2
2
2
3
3
4
4
124
374
2
2
3
7
31
Number of
water samples
Ground
water
2
2
3
1
1
1
3
2
5
1
41
88
Surface
water
2
1
4
7
25
Number of
substrate
samples
2
2
2
11
3
3
6
4
4
12
6
1
3
4
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
4
3
4
4
112
350
Type of analysis and number of samples analyzed
GC/MS
Extractables
2
2
2
11
4
2
3
2
9
4
4
12
6
1
1
3
1
3
4
2
1
2
2
2
2
2
5
2
2
2
2
4
3
5
4
133
357
Volatiles As Cd Cr Cu
2
4
6
1
2
2
2
5
2
2
3
39
136
- 2
_ _
- - 3
- - 4 4
- - - -
1 1 1
- - 1
- 2
2222
- _ - -
- - - -
- - - -
9 15 19 27
79 129 176 148
Fe Pb Hg Ni V Zn
2 - -
11 - 11 - - -
3 3 - -
4 _ 4 - _ -
1 1 - - - 1
1 - -
4 4 - -
2 2 - -
2 22222
2 2 - -
2 2 - -
4 4 - -
5 - 5 - - -
67 13 61 95 13
274 154 135 111 29 56
CN S
- -
- -
- -
- -
- -
- -
_ _
- -
- -
- -
0 0
8 3
-------
Electromagnetic-Conductivity Survey
An electromagnetic conductivity survey was done on 21 of the 79 hazardous-
waste sites to help delineate the areal extent of buried waste. The technique
involved traversing the site on selected survey lines. A variation in observed
values indicates changes in ground-water conductivity. The names and site num-
bers of the 21 sites investigated are:
Buffalo area: Donner Hanna Coke (217), Anaconda Brass Company (113)
Tonawanda area: Nash Road Landfill (93), Tonawanda Coke (108, 109, 110),
Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company (125, 126, 127), Spaulding Fiber Company (153,
154, 155), Huntley-Power Station (182), City of Tonawanda Landfill (207)
Niagara Falls area: Dupont Necco Park (14), Olin Industrial Welding (57),
Stauffer Power Authority (62), Art Park (63), Niagara County Refuse Disposal
(81), Griffon Park (85), Cayuga Creek (242). The data and analyses of the sur-
veys are given in the site descriptions in the appendices.
Study of Dredge-Spoil-Containment Sites
The Geological Survey studied three containment sites selected by USEPA
along Lake Erie to determine the potential for migration of contaminated water
from dredge-spoil containment sites to the Niagara River. The sites are the
Times Beach containment site (site 241), the Small Boat Harbor containment site
(site 253), and the Buffalo Harbor containment site (site 254), all in the
Buffalo area (appendix A). Locations are shown in plate 1.
A nested piezometer was installed at each containment site. Each piezometer
consisted of three wells screened at approximately 5, 10, and 15 ft below land
surface. The deep well was screened at 15 ft or at the bottom of the fill
material, whichever was less. Water samples were obtained from each well and
from the ponds of each site and were analyzed for "priority pollutants."1 The
site descriptions, well-completion data, and chemical analyses are given in the
Buffalo area site descriptions (appendix A).
A water-level recorder was installed at the Times Beach containment site to
continuously measure water levels in the containment area. Lake-level data were
obtained from automatic recorders at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers station
along the lake. This information was used to estimate the rate of flow from the
containment area to Lake Erie.
Regional Hydrologic Investigation
Hydrogeology, Stratigraphy, and Water Quality
Eleven locations were chosen to help define the general hydrogeology and
water quality in the three areas. (Locations are shown in pis. 1-3.) At each
USEPA priority pollutants are toxic constituents and compounds for which
technology-based effluent limitations and guidelines are required by
Federal law.
-------
site a test hole was drilled to the top of bedrock by a conventional truck-
mounted auger rig with hollow-stem augers. Where feasible, cores were collected
at 5-ft intervals by a split-spoon assembly. These cores were used to describe
the local geology.
When bedrock was reached, a monitoring well with a 1.5-in.-diameter casing and
a 2-ft-long, 1.25-in. diameter screen was installed. Where saturated thickness
was 20 ft or more, two additional holes were drilled, and wells were installed
at intermediate and shallow depths. The drilling method and well specifications
were the same as for the deep monitoring wells. Where the saturated thickness
was less than 20 ft, only one additional monitoring well was installed at a
shallow depth. Each well was surveyed for elevation in reference to sea level.
A water sample was collected from the deepest well at nine of the 11 loca-
tions and was analyzed for USEPA priority pollutants (table 2). Water was evac-
uated from the casing three times by a peristaltic pump, and then the sample
was collected with a stainless steel, Teflon - coated bailer.
Table 2.—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency list of recommended
priority pollutants^-
METALS
antimony
arsenic
beryllium
cadmium
chromium
copper
lead
mercury
nickel
selenium
silver
thallium
zinc
MISCELLANEOUS SUBSTANCES
asbestos
cyanide
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
acenaphthene
acrolein
acrylonitrile
benzene
benzidine
carbon tetrachloride
(tetrachloromethane)
chlorinated benzenes
(other than dichlorobenzenes)
chlorobenzene
1,2,4-trichlorobenzene
hexachlorobenzene
chlorinated ethanes
1,2-dichloroethane
1,1,1-trichloroethane
hexachloroethane
1,1-dichloroethane
1,1,2-trichloroethane
1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane
chloroethane
chloroalkyl ethers (chlororaethyl,
chloroethyl, and mixed ethers)
bis (chloromethyl)ether
bis (2-chloroethyl)ether
2-chloroethyl vinyl ether (mixed)
1 USEPA priority pollutants are toxic constituents and compounds for which
technology-based effluent limitations and guidelines are required by Federal
law.
10
-------
Table 2.—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency list of recommended
priority pollutants (continued)
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS (continued)
chlorinated naphthalene
2-chloronaphthalene
chlorinated phenols (other than
those listed elsewhere; includes
trichlorophenols and chlorinated
cresols)
2,4,6-trichlorophenol
para-chloro-beta-cresol
chloroform (trichloromethane)
2-chlorophenol
dichlorobenzenes
1,2-dichlorobenzene
1,3-dichlorobenzene
1,4-dichlorobenzene
dichlorobenzidine
3,3'-dichlorobenzidine
dichloroethylenes
1,1-dichloroethylene
1,2-trans-dichloroethylene
2,4-dichlorophenol
dichloropropane and dichloropropene
1,2-dichloropropane
1,2-dichloropropylene
(1,3-dichloropropene)
2,4-dimethylphenol
dinitrotoluene
2,4-dinitrotoluene
2,6-dinitrotoluene
1,2-diphenylhydrazine
ethylbenzene
fluoranthene
haloethers (other than those
listed elsewhere)
4-chlorophenylphenyl ether
4-bromophenylphenyl ether
bis(2-chloroisopropyl) ether
bis(2-chloroethoxy)methane
halomethanes (other than those
listed elsewhere)
methylene chloride
(dichloromethane)
methyl chloride (chloroinethane)
methyl bromide (bromoraethane)
bromoform (tribromomethane)
dichlorobromomethane
chlorodibromomethane
hexachlorobutadiene
hexachlorocyclopentadiene
isophorone
naphthalene
nitrobenzene
nitrophenols
2-nitrophenol
4-nitrophenol
2,4-dinitrophenol
4,6-dinitro-o-cresol
nitrosamines
N-nitrosodimethylamine
N-nitrosodiphenylamine
N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine
pentachlorophenol
phenol
phthalate esters
bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
butylbenzyl phthalate
di-n-butyl phthalate
di-n-octyl phthalate
dioctyl phthalate
dimethyl phthalate
polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons
benzo(a)anthracene
(1,2-benzanthracene)
benzo(a)pyrene (3,4-benzopyrene)
3,4-benzofluoranthene
benzo(k)fluoranthane
(11,12-benzofluoranthene)
chrysene
acenaphthene
anthracene
11
-------
Table 2.—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency list of recommended
priority pollutants (continued)
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS (continued)
Polynulcear aromatic hydrocarbons (cont.)
benzo(ghi)perylene
(1,12-benzoperylene)
fluorene
phenanthrene
d ibenzo(a,h)anthr acene
(1,2,5,6-dibenzanthracene)
indeno(l,2,3-cd)pyrene
(2,3-o-phenylenepyrene)
pyrene
tetrachloroethylene (tetrachlorethene)
toluene
trichloroethylene (trichloroethene)
vinyl chloride (chloroethene)
Pesticides and metabolites
aldrin
dieldrin
chlordane (technical mixture
and metabolites)
DDT and metabolites
4,4'-DDT
4,4'-DDE (p,p'-DDE)
4,4'-DDD (p,p'-DDD)
endosulfan and metabolites
a-endosulfan
3~endosulfan
endosulfan sulfate
endrin and metabolites
endrin
endrin aldehyde
heptachlor and metabolites
heptachlor
heptachlor epoxide
hexachlorocyclohexane
(all isomers)
ot-BHC
3-BHC
y-BHC (lindane)
6-BHC
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
PCB-1242
PCB-1254
PCB-1221
PCB-1232
PCB-1248
PCB-1260
PCB-1016
(Arochlor
(Arochlor
(Arochlor
(Arochlor
(Arochlor
(Arochlor
(Arochlor
1242)
1254)
1221)
1232)
1248)
1260)
1016)
toxaphene
2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin
(TCDD)
The geologic logs from these test holes are described in the section titled
"Geology" in the discussions of the respective areas; results of the chemical
analyses are given in the corresponding "Ground-Water Quality" sections of the
site descriptions in the appendices.
Monitoring Wells
Several monitoring wells were installed in the Niagara Falls area to help
define the geohydrology of the unconsolidated deposits in that area and the
upper part of the Lockport Dolomite. Six additional wells were drilled along
the Robert Moses Parkway to monitor the ground-water quality in the uncon-
solidated deposits along the Niagara River. (Locations are shown in pi. 3.)
Drilling was done by a contract drilling company to specifictions written by
the U.S. Geological Survey. The wells, 800 ft apart, were drilled to bedrock
12
-------
or to the top of a relatively impermeable layer, if present. Upon completion,
five wells were pumped dry and water levels were allowed to recover; a water
sample was then collected for analysis for priority pollutants. One well did
not yield sufficient water for a sample.
Another four wells were installed along the gorge of the Niagara River (pi.
3) by contract drillers to obtain information on the quality of ground water
that ultimately discharges to the gorge face of the lower Niagara River. Two
wells were installed to the Rochester shale, and two in the first permeable zone
of the Lockport Dolomite. A sample from each well was analyzed for priority
pollutants.
Bedrock Drilling
In the City of Niagara Falls, 11 wells were installed in the Lockport
Dolomite (pi. 3) at five sites along the Falls Street Tunnel, an unlined tunnel
in the dolomite. Two of the wells were shallow, one placed north and one south
of the tunnel, and were screened 5 to 15 ft below the water table to measure the
potentiometric surface of ground water in the upper part of the formation. Four
deeper wells were installed at three of the sites to measure the potentiometric
surface of deeper water-bearing zones. Water samples were collected from nine
of the wells and analyzed for the priority pollutants. Well-construction data,
geologic logs, and results of chemical analyses are given in the discussion of
the Niagara Falls area.
Quality Assurance for Chemical Data
To ensure the validity of chemical data obtained from the study, quality-
assurance practices were instituted for sample collection, sample preservation,
sample storage and shipping, sample analysis, and data evaluation.
A quality-assurance plan was prepared by the U.S. Geological Survey with
assistance of the USEPA to define project organization and responsibility,
quality-assurance objectives and practices, corrective actions to be taken in
case of discrepancies, and the content and schedules for reports. The plan was
written according to the "Interim Guidelines and Specifications for preparing
Quality Assurance Project Plans" (USEPA, 1980). The quality-assurance practices
are described below; the detection limits and estimated accuracy and precision
for each constituent and compound type are given in table 3.
Practices
Sampling and sample preservation.—Drilling equipment was thoroughly washed
with water and steam-cleaned before each hole was drilled. After boreholes had
been drilled, space around the casing was backfilled with drill cuttings to pre-
vent vertical migration of water. The sequence of drilling was recorded so that
contamination of successively drilled wells could be readily detected. Wells
were pumped dry three times and water levels allowed to recover before water
samples were taken. Pumps and sample bottles were rinsed with hexane and with
deionized water free of organic compounds before samples were taken. Except for
substrate cores, which were handled with rubber or polyethylene gloves, samples
for organic-compound analyses were allowed to touch only glass, Teflon, the
untreated side of aluminum foil, silicon-based tubing, or iron.
13
-------
Table 3.—Detection limits and estimated accuracy and precision for
water and substrate samples from Niagara River waste-disposal
sites, 19821
Constituent2
GC/MS organic
compounds ,
base/neutral
extractable
GC/MS organic
compounds
acid-
extractable
GC/MS organic
volatiles
Arsenic, total
recoverable
Cyanide, total
recoverable
Fluoride, total
recoverable
Sulfide, total
recoverable
Heavy metals,
total
cadmium
chromium
copper
iron
lead
mercury
nickel
zinc
Sample Detection
type limit
water 1-5 ug/L
substrate 300 ng/kg
water 1-5 ug/L
substrate 300 Mg/kg
water 1-5 ug/L
water 1 Mg/L
substrate 1000 Mg/kg
water 10 Mg/L
substrate 500 ug/kg
water 100 yg/L
water 500 Mg/L
water 1 Mg/L
substrate 1,000-10,000 Mg/kg
Estimated
accuracy
(percent
recovery)
40-120
30-100
70-130
70-130
70-130
70-130
70-130
63-131
62-148
52-134
67-141
61-130
66-130
73-130
46-130
Estimated
precision
(relative
percent
difference)
<30
<30
<30
<30
<30
<30
<30
<40
<40
<40
<40
<40
<40
<40
<40
Accuracy and precision goals are based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
laboratory etimates, except for precision of heavy metals, which is based on
U.S. Geological Survey Central Laboratory estimates. Goals are based on con-
centrations of at least 10 times the detection level.
GC/MS = gas chrotnatograph/mass spectrometer,
14
-------
Two types of blank water samples were used to detect contamination during
sampling or shipping. Trip blanks were bottles of deionized and organic-free
water that were mailed from the laboratory to the field, then returned to the
laboratory with the samples. Wash blanks were deionized, organic-free water
samples that were passed through the iron pipe, tubing, and pumps. The blanks
were analyzed by the laboratory for the same organic compounds analyzed in the
samples. Duplicates of water and substrate samples were obtained to evaluate
the precision of sampling and analysis.
Most blanks and duplicates were obtained during the first few weeks of
sampling to validate procedures and to discover sources of contamination
occurring during sampling or analysis. The number of quality-control samples
was reduced in subsequent weeks to levels commensurate with sample submission.
Unfiltered samples were placed in labeled bottles, treated with preserv-
ative, and placed in coolers where they were protected from sunlight, then
chilled without being frozen. The amount of sample required, bottle types, pre-
servatives required, and maximum holding times for the constituents in the
samples are shown in table 4.
Table 4.--Sampling and analysis procedures for experimental constituents1
GC/MS organic
compounds
base/neutral-
and acid-
extractable
GC/MS organic
volatiles
Arsenic, total
recoverable
Sample
type
water
substrate
water
water
substrate
Minimum
amount
required
500 mL
50 g
50 mL
50-100 mL
10 g
Type of
container Preservative
glass cool to 4°C
glass cool to 4°C
plastic HN03 to pH<2
Maximum
holding
time
7 days
40 days ,
extracted
14 days
6 months
Analytical procedure
GC/MS2
do
GS/MS3
Atomic absorption
troraetry, hydride
spect-
1979
Cyanide, total
recoverable
Fluoride, total
recoverable
water 50 mL
substrate 10 g
water
300 mL
plastic cool to 4°C 24 hours
NaOH to
pH 12
plastic — 7 days
(p. 73 water, p. 81
substrate)1*
Colorimetry
(p. 353 water,
p. 349 substrate)1*
Ion-selective electrode
(p. 529)1*
Sulfide, total
recoverable
Heavy metals,
total
recoverable
water
water
substrate
250
200
10
mL
mL
g
plastic
plastic
2 mL Zn-
acetate
HN03 to PH<2
24 hours
6 months^
Titrimetry, iodometric
(p. 619)1*
Atomic absorption
spectrometry
(p. 97-277)1*
* U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1974) and U.S. Geological Survey (1977).
GC/MS, gas chromatograph and mass spectrometer. Variation of method 625 developed
by U.S. Geological Survey, (1982, unpublished).
Federal Register, Monday, December 3, 1979, method 624, p. 69532.
"* Skougstad and others, 1979.
Maximum time for mercury is 13 days.
15
-------
Storage and shipping.—All samples were stored and shipped in chilled, closed
containers. A formal documentation of custody of samples and containers by all
personnel (chain-of-custody) was not done.
Sample analysis.—All chemical analyses of soil and water samples collected by
the U.S. Geological Survey were analyzed by the Geological Survey Central
Laboratory or by USEPA contract laboratories. The USEPA contract laboratories
had their own quality control. The quality assurance used by the Geological
Survey is discussed below. The complete procedures for calibration and quality
control of U.S. Geological Survey laboratory equipment are described in Friedman
and Erdmann (1981). Standard operating procedures for each instrument were done
according to manufacturer's specifications. Instruments were calibrated daily,
and the highest available grade of standards and reagents were used (American
Chemical Society grade or equivalent).
Calibration standards for organic compounds were perfluorotributylamine,
obtained from the gas-chromatograph and mass-spectrometer manufacturers.
Cholesterol, a-terpinol, and nC35 were used to check column efficiency and
system performance; instrument tuning with decafluorotriphenylphosphine (DFTPP)
and bromofluorobenzene (BFB) was done routinely. All organic-compound standards
were obtained from the USEPA or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Stock
solutions were made in the laboratory; highest grade standards available were
used.
The following checks were done in the laboratory:
1. At least one replicate analysis was done per two sets of samples (8 samples
per set).
2. One spike was added per two sets of water samples.
3. Control charts were used when applicable to determine recovery and
repeatability. If the analytical result was not acceptable and the
sample was large enough, the analysis was repeated until two or three
results agreed; if the sample was insufficient for reanalysis, the
result was rejected.
4. One reagent blank was run per set of samples.
5. Internal standards were used as appropriate for the analytical method
(Goerlitz and Brown, 1972; Skougstad and others, 1979; and USEPA, 1979).
6. Quality-control samples (USEPA reference samples) were used in place of
spiked samples on every 10th spike.
7. Surrogate compounds as specified by the USEPA were added to each water
sample, standard, substrate, and blank where organic compound analysis was
done.
8. Calibration standards and devices were used as appropriate for method.
9. Reagent checks were performed.
16
-------
The data-reduction scheme in the laboratory, the principal criteria used to
validate data, and the methods used to treat data outliers are described in
Friedman and Erdtnann (1981), Goerlitz and Brown (1972), and Skougstad and others
(1979).
Evaluation of the validity of chemical data.—Data were reviewed according to
the project quality-assurance plan and the review process described in USEPA
(1982). The following is a summary of the review process:
1. Determine representativeness of the data; that is, verify that the data
were the proper type to meet the objectives of the study.
2. Determine completeness of data; that is, whether samples were analyzed for
the requested constituents.
3. Identify contaminants in trip blanks, wash blanks, laboratory spike blanks,
and glassware blanks. Reject data from samples with concentrations less
than or equal to five times the concentration found in the blanks. Data from
samples having concentrations greater than 5 times that of the blanks were
reduced by subtracting the blank value from the sample value.
4. Estimate accuracy of data from surrogate spike recoveries. The measure
of accuracy was percent recovery:
,, yg of surrogate found in sample , AA
Percent recovery = £-*—2 * ——: *-=— x 100
Mg of surrogate added to sample
5. Estimate precision by comparing the results of duplicate samples. Precision
was measured by relative percent difference:
Relative percent difference = SI - S2 x 100
SM
where:
SI = ug of substance in sample 1,
S2 = lag of substance in sample 2,
SM = mean, in ug/L or pg/kg, of the two samples.
6. Determine whether priority polluants were identified properly by checking
a representative number of spectra of compounds reported in the computer
quantitation report.
7. Quality-assurance coordinator and analytical coordinator check data and
review process.
Results
None of the data were rejected for lack of representativeness. Samples were
obtained for a reconnaissance of potential contamination, and all organic com-
pounds present in the samples were identified where their concentration and
availability of reference spectra made it possible. Naturally occurring com-
pounds that were identified are listed in table 5.
17
-------
Except where new samples needed to be obtained, the data were more than 95
percent complete. A few heavy-metal analyses were not performed, either because
a sample was too small, the laboratory request sheets were missing or
incomplete, or laboratory error occurred.
Organic compounds detected in trip, wash, and laboratory blanks are listed
in table 6. Surrogate recoveries for blanks are shown in table 7.
Table 5.—Organic compounds identified as a naturally occurring, possibly
naturally occurring, or possible artifact compounds in ground
water, surface water, and substrates, 1982.
[Identification by U.S. Geological Survey.]
Naturally occurring organic compounds
Butanoic acid
Benzoic acid
Hexanoic acid
Pentanoic acid
Undecane
1,2-Octanediol
1,3,3-Trimethylbicyclo-
[2.2.1J heptan-2-one
1,7,7,-Trimethylbicyclo [2,
heptan-2-one (camphor)
2,2-Dimethyl decane
2-Methylbutanoic acid
5-Butyl-5~nonanol
2.1]
Possibly naturally occurring organic compounds
Butylcyclooctane
Cyclohexanone
Decane
Dodecane
Eicosane
Heptadecane
Heptanal
Hexadecane
Hexacosane
Nonadecane
Octacosane
Octadecane
Pentadecane
Tetradecane
Tridecane
l-Butoxy-2-propanol
1-Hexanol
2-Hexanone
2-Methylpentadecane
2-Methyl-propanoic acid, butyl ester
2,2-Dimethylundecane
2,3,5-Trimethylundecane
2,6,11-Trimethyldodecane
2,7-Dimethylundecane
3-Hexen-2-one
3-Methylbutanoic acid
3-Methy1-2-pentanone
3,8-Dimethylundecane
4-Methyldecane
4,4,5-Trimethyl-2-hexene
5-Methyl-3-hexen-2-one
5,7-Dimethylundecane
10-Methylisocosane
Possible artifacts
Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane
Dodecamethylcyclohexasiloxane
Octamethy1eyelotretrasiloxane
2,6-Dimethyl-2,5-heptadien-4-one
(phorone)
4-Hydroxy-4-methy1-2-pentanone
4-Methyl-3-hepten-2-one
4-methyl-3-penten-2-one
5-Methyl-3-hexen-2-one
6-Methyl-3,5-heptadien-2-one
18
-------
The surrogate recoveries (accuracy) and the precision for the samples are
listed in tables 8 through 11. Some samples had surrogate recoveries below
quality-assurance goals but were sufficiently close to goals or had a sufficient
number of surrogates meeting the goals to justify acceptance of the data. In a
few cases, sample extracts evaporated. In others, volatile surro-gates eva-
porated before being integrated in the sample; therefore, different surrogates
were substituted for subsequent analyses. Some substrate samples had zero or
minimal surrogate recoveries, but reanalysis showed that the surrogates had
sorbed to the substrate matrix. No data were rejected on the basis of surrogate
recoveries, but such data are noted in the tables of chemical data. Surrogate
recoveries in substrates were found to be related to the time between surrogate
addition and extraction. No standard method for surrogate use in substrates is
available.
Precision estimates for heavy metals were calculated from duplicate and
split samples. In most samples, the precision estimates exceeded quality-
assurance goals. Because the types of organic compound analyses used in this
study are semiquantitative, precision estimates for the organic compounds under
ideal conditions may have deviated by more than ^300 percent and would not have
been representative of the sampling precision.
Some sample characteristics often made it impossible to achieve close
agreement among organic compound duplicates and may have caused erratic surro-
gate recoveries. These characteristics are summarized below:
1. Most of the substrate samples contained large stones, chunks of wood, mixed
clay, charcoal, or coke that made homogenizing difficult or impossible.
2. Sample concentration was difficult to measure because of heavy, nonvolatile
asphaltic residues.
3. The black color of some samples made it impossible to determine when precip-
itates were forming.
4. Several samples were not concentrated to the intended volume because they
became oily and thick.
5. Many components were not well resolved on the packed column for volatile
analysis.
6. The oily and nonvolatile components left deposits on the injection liners.
Liners had to be changed frequently, and new blanks had to be run.
7. The chromotagrams were extremely complex. Some pesticides could not be
quantitated or verified properly.
USEPA officials sent samples containing known quantities of priority pollu-
tants to the U.S. Geological Survey Central Laboratory. Where percent recovery
of priority pollutants did not meet quality-assurance goals, the Geological
Survey determined the causes of incorrect recovery readings and corrected them.
The USEPA considered the Geological Survey's identification and quantification
of priority pollutants to be adequate.
19
-------
Table 6.—Contamination of quality-assurance water blanks, 1982.
[Concentrations in ug/M LT indicates that contaminants
were detected but below the quantifiable detection limit;
dashes indicate they were not detected.]
Date
collected
06-21-82
06-25-82
06-28-82
07-09-82
07-21-82
07-21-82
07-22-82
07-23-82
07-28-82
07-28-82
08-02-82
Type
Trip blank
do
do
Glassware blank
for June 1982
laboratory
Trip blank
Wash blank
Trip blank
do
do
Wash blank
do
Trip blank
Contaminants
—
—
2 , 4-Dimethy 1-2-pentene 1
Borinic acid, diethyl,
methyl ester1
3 , 3-Dimethyl-2-butanone 1
3-Methyl-2-pentanone1
2-Methyl-heptane1
3-Hexen-2-one1
Acetic acid, 1-methylester 1
2, 6-Dimethyl heptane1
6-(acetyloxy)-2-hexanone1
2-Chloronapthalene1
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate1
—
1,2-Cyclo hexanediol1
di-n-butyl phthalate
4-chloro-trans-cyclohexanol
2,2' — oxybis-propane
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthlate
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthlate
2,2' oxybis-propane1
1,1' -oxybis (3-methyl)butane
2
2
2
2
—
Concentration
—
—
0.4
4.0
20
62
24
39
95
48
33
90
1,100
—
5.0
19
LT
LT
10
6.6
LT
LT
—
—
—
—
—
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
Sample evaporated.
20
-------
Table 6.—Contamination of quality-assurance water blanks, 1982 (continued)
[Concentrations in Mg/L; LT indicates that contaminants
were detected but below the quantifiable detection limit;
dashes indicate they were not detected.]
Date
collected Type
Contaminants
Concentration
08-12-82
Trip blank
08-18-82
Wash blank
08-20-82
Trip blank
Spike
Glassware blank
Glassware blank
Glassware blank
Spike
3-methyl-2-pentenone 23
Toluene 2.3
Tetrahydro-5-methyl-trans-2-
furanmethanol1 3.9
1,6-Hexanediol1 5.0
2-Cyclohexen-l-ol1 13
2-Cyclohexen-l-orie1 16
2-(2-ethoxyethoxy-ethanol1 7.1
1,4-Dichlorobenzene1 LT
4-Chloro-trans-cyclohexanol 17
Bromophenoxybenzene^ 1.7
3,3-Dimethyl-2-butanone1 14
2-Methyl-2-pentanol1 2.3
4~Methyl-2-pentanone^ 1.6
3-Methyl-2-pentanone1 23
3-Cyclohexen-l-ol1 11
2-Cyclohexen-l-one1 15
2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol1 2.4
4-Chloro-transcyclohexanol-'- 18
2,6-Bis(l,1-dimethylethyl)-
4-methylmethyl carbamate1 1.2
N-Phenylbenzenamine^ 2.5
4-(l,l,3,3-TetramethylbutyD-
phenol1 1.0
Di-n-butyl phthalate 1.1
Methoxycyclohexane 10
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate 90
2-Cyclohexen-l-ol
2-Cyclohexen-1-one
1,2-Cyclohexanediol
2,3-Dichlorophenol^-
1,2-Dihydroacenaphthylene1
2-Methyl-l-l-biphenyl1
LT
LT
LT
4.3
14
10
21
-------
Table 7.—Surrogate recoveries from water blanks
(All values are in percent; dashes indicate analysis not performed.)
Date
collected
Sample type
Water spike
(1)
(2)
Decaf luoro-
biphenyl
1-f luoro-
napthalene
_
2,2-
Dif luoro-
biphenyl
47
Surrogate
Trifluoro-
Phenol-d6 m-cresol
75
(1) Tribromophenol
(2) Dibromophenol
(3) D ibromobenzene
(1)140, (2)105, (3)60
Quality control
sample 2
Quality control
sample 3
(acid only)
Water spike
(2) 61
66
44
64
19
25
06-21-82
06-25-82
06-28-82
07-09-82
07-21-82
07-21-82
07-22-82
07-23-82
07-23-82
07-28-82
07-28-82
08-02-82
08-12-82
08-18-82
08-20-82
08-20-82
09-08-82
09-08-82
-
Trip blank
Water spike
Water spike
Water spike -
Water spike (2) 29
Water spike (2) 71
Glassware blank (2) 27
Trip blank
Trip blank (2) 52
Trip blank (2) 79
Wash blank (2) 71
Trip blank (2) 75
Trip blank
Trip blank
Trip blank
Wash blank
Wash blank
Water spike —
Trip blank
Trip blank
Water spike
Wash blank
Trip blank
Wash blank
Trip blank
Trip blank (2)64
Water spike (2)42
Water spike -
95
28
22
-
82
84
74
84
-
-
-
73
57
61
55
69
55
38
73
54
47
51
61
40
45
31
90
60
76
12
40
40
45
60
48
97
75
56
70
41
64
41
46
46
51
75
76
66
40
67
66
(2)20, (3)70
(1)44, (2)28, (3)27
90
30
69
68
73
67 (3) 58
100 (3) 47
100 (3) 98
(1)80, (2)70, (3)69
(1)67, (2)58, (3)56
(1)86, (2)89, (3)83
(1)51, (2)47, (3)48
(1)71, (2)86, (3)73
(1)51, (2)47, (3)48
(1)26, (2)30
(2)64, (3)51
(1)48, (2)75, (3)40
(1)140, (2)105,
(3)60
22
-------
Table 8. Qualicy-assurance results for waste-disposal sites
[Site locations shown in specific site descriptions.]
U>
Date
collected
06-18-82
do
do
06-19-82
do
do
06-21-82
do
06-19-82
do
do
06-21-82
do
do
06-17-82
do
do
06-21-82
06-21-82
do
06-22-82
do
do
06-23-82
06-25-82
do
07-09-82
do
do
do
do
(1)
Site name Sample Sample (2)
and number no. type
Botanical Gardens
(243) do
do
Lynch Park (076)
do
do
Holiday Park (072)
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
1
1
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
3
4
5
5
6
7
8
8
9
Buffalo Pumps (083)1
do
NCRD.Wheatfield
(081)
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
7
7
8
9
10
11
water2
do 2
do
substrate
do
do
water
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
substrate
do
water
water
do
substrate
do
do
do
water
do
do
substrate
do3
do3
do3
do3
Decaf luoro-
biphenyl
1-Fluoro- 2
napthalene
(2)68
-
(1)28
(2)74
(1)31
(1)65
-
(1)63
(1)31
(1)42
(1)85
(1)60(63)
(2)67
(2)96
(1)34(36)
-
-
(2)64(64)
(2)12
(2)85
(2)31
(2)54
(2)48
(2)81
(2) Ql
(2)42(103)!
(2)66'
(2)15'
Surrogate
,2-Difluoro-
biphenyl
78
87
58
70
35
56
35
65
35
34
65
62(93)1
43
86
36(59)1
-
-
36(42)1
10
69
58
40
51
72
Ql
43(95)'
41 1
141
Recoveries (in percent)
Trifluoro-
Phenol— d6 m— cresol
-
102
41
55
101
77
68
82
60
138
86(37)1
87
200
65
-
-
73(92)1
5
70
16
_
_
24.
o1
29(74)!
22 1
91
_
99
52
64
99
70
73
63
54
59
124(12)!
-
-
80
-
-
_
2
40
48
_
_
_
_
_
_
-
(1) Tribromophenol
(2) Dibromophenol
(3) Dibromobenzene
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
_
-
(1)5, (2)16, (3)72
(1)59, (2)77, (3)87
-
-
-
(1)4(5)1, (2)10(13)1
(3)59(66)1
-
_
-
_
_
(2)25
(1)0(66)1, (2)0(51)1
(DO1, (2)0'
(DO1, (2)0'
Precision
(Relative
Percent
Difference)
-
-
-
_
-
10,10
do
-
15,0
do
-
0,4
do
-
_
-
-
-
_
-
-
„
_
_
_
_
-
-------
Table 8. Quality assurance results for waste-disposal sites (continued)
r-o
-P-
Surrogate Recoveries
Date
collected
06-24-82
do
do
do
do
do
06-22-82
06-25-82
do
do
06-26-82
do
06-28-82
do
do
do
do
06-28-82
do
do
do
06-28-82
do
do
08-21-82
do
do
06-28-82
06-25-82
(I)
Site name Sample Sample (2)
and number no. type
Nash Road
do
do
do
do
do
Frontier
do
do
do
do
(093)
Chemical
(067)
Niagara River
do
Gratwick
do
do
do
do
(094)
Park
(068)
Great Lakes Carbon
do
do
do
Art Park
do
do
do
do
do
Whirlpool
(022)
(063)
(089)
Buffalo Ave. (083)
do
do
do
do
do
1
1
2
2
3
4
1
2
2
3
4
1
2
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
6
1
2
1
1
3
4
5
6
water1*
do *
substrate
do
do
do
water
do
do
substrate
water
water
do
water1*
do 3
do
do 3
do
substrate
do
water
do
water
substrate3
do
do3
substrate
do
substrate
do
Decaf luoro-
biphenyl
1-Fluoro-
napthalene
(2)
(2)
85
2
(2)113
(2)
(2)
(2)
19
84
-
-
-
-
-
-
31
(2)133
(2)
(2)
^
-
59
57
(2)122
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
62
59
70
19
76
oi
70
20 !
-
70
17
2,2-Difluoro-
biphenyl Phenol-d6
53
45
83
81
57
106
-
-
-
-
-
56
129
6
-
65
69
148
56
37
124
28
89
31
55
II1
92
130
24
-
68
31
23
40
_
-
-
-
-
13
27
11
-
12
20
25
91
71
61
19
22
O1
35
2'
76
7
4
(in percent) Precision
(1) Tribromophenol (Relative
Trifluoro- (2) Dibromophenol Percent
m-cresol (3) Dibroraobenzene Difference)
-
50
73
24
_
-
-
-
-
87
133
22
_
25
100
130
_
123
49
46
0'
-
-
-
8
9
0 to 25
do
0 to 50
do
-
(1)131, (2)88, (3)59
-
0 to 26
do
-
-
_
-
_ _
_
_
-
-
(1), 8, (2)27, (3)62
(2)10, (3)62
-
-
_
(1)01,(2)01
(1)47, (2)39
(1)9',(2)711
_
(1)30, (2)98, (3)75
0 to 9
do
-
-
-
-
1 Analysis repeated
2 Niagara County Refuse Disposal
3 Matrix interferences
"* Acid portion evaporated
-------
Table 8. Quality assurance results for waste-disposal sites (continued)
[Site locations shown in specific site descriptions.]
Date
collected
06-28-82
do
do
do
do
06-30-82
do
07-02-82
do
07-10-82
08-21-82
do
do
do
08-27-82
do
07-29-82
07-29-82
do
do
do
08-30-82
do
do
do
do
07-30-82
do
do
do
08-04-82
do
do
do
Site name Sample
and number no.
Buffalo
do
do
do
do
do
do
64th St
do
City of
Ave.
(083)
. N. (088)
Tonawanda Dump
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
(207)
J.H. Williams Co.
do
do
do
(160)
Squaw Island
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
Luc idol
do
do
do
(203)
Division
(137)
Urn. Stausman Prop
do
do
do
(204)
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
1
2
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
(1) Decaf luoro-
biphenyl
Sample (2) 1-Fluoro-
type napthalene
substrate
do
substrate
do
water
substrate3
do3
do
do
do 3
do3
substrate
substrate
do
do3
do3
do3
do3
substrate
do
do
do
substrate
do
do
do
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
63
65
9
64
20
91
13
85
66
32
O1
-
56
(2)100
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
(2)
40
16
40
15
-
-
-
-
68
42
54
74
Surrogate
2,2-Difluoro-
biphenyl
53
51
5
68
75
101
8
65
46
15
Ql
47
80
19
38
11
38
17
60(72)!
62
55
57
76
30
61
81
Recoveries (in percent)
Precision
(1) Tribromophenol (Relative
Trifluoro- (2) Dibromophenol Percent
Phenol-d6 m-cresol (3) Dibromobenzene Difference/
90
91
28
27
50 82
0'
2
47
25
4
Ql
57
104
86
4
0
27
1
60(76)1
28
42
47
50
17
41
64
(2)15, (3)70
(1)9, (2)21,
(1)4, (2)2
(1)70, (2)63
(1)62
(DO1, (2)0'
(1)12, (2)4
(1)52, (2)51
(1)44, (2)34
(3)61
,(3)56
-
_
-
-
_
-
_
-
—
-
-
-
(1)0, (2)0, (3)31
(1)01,(2)01
-
_
_
_
(1)140, (2)105, (3)60
(1)76, (2)78
(1)94, (2)92
(1)10, (2)4
(1)40, (2)30
-
(1)45(48)',
(3)60(69)'
,(3)59
,(3)94
,(3)26
(2)62(72)!,
_
_
-
-
_
(1)110, (2)56, (3)70
(1)37, (2)57
(1)85, (2)61
(1)53, (2)50
(1)21, (2)18
(1)39,(2)34
(1)52, (2)61
,(3)48
,(3)54
,(3)73
,(3)47
,(3)55
,(3)79
-
-
_
-
-
-
-------
Table 8. Quality assurance results for waste-disposal sites (continued)
Surrogate Recoveries (in percent)
Date
collected
08-05-82
do
do
do
08-05-82
do
do
do
08-11-82
do
do
do
08-12-82
do
do
do
08-18-82
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
08-19-82
do
08-20-82
Site name SampL
and number no.
Donner Hanna Coke
do (217)
do
do
McNaughton Brooks
do (138)
do
do
R. P. Adams (103)
do
do
do
Stauffer Chemical
do (300)
do
do
Dupont of
Tonawanda (128)
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
Modern Disposal
do (077)
Quinns Motel ( )
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
3
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
1
(1)
e Sample (2)
type
substrate
do
do
do
substrate
do
do
do
substrate
do
do
do
substrate
do
do
substrate
do
water
do
do
water
do
do
do
do
substrate
Decaf luoro-
biphenyl
1-Fluoro- 2,2-Dif luoro-
napthalene biphenyl
(2) 73
(2) 57
(2) 62
(2) 71
(2) 56
(2) 48
(2) 66
(2) 73
(2) 58
(2) 69
(2)150
(2)110
(2) 58(7)'
(2) 47
(2) 51
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(2) 15
49
14
-
30
55
50
37
55
38
52
50
89
15U)1
40
52
49
55
62
31
35
42
12
29
34
11
(1) Tribromophenol
Trifluoro- (2) Dibromophenol
Phenol-d6 m-cresol (3) Dibromobenzene
46
-
-
-
42
62
-
21
31
25
37
63
O(l)1
39
42
103
32
48
29
27
35
93
33
35
8
(2)24, (3)75
(3)69
(3)77
(3)49
(1)41, (2)40, (3)56
(1)36, (2)47, (3)42
(1)8, (3)83
(1)11, (2)21, (3)61
(1)32,(2)30
(1)86, (2)39
(1)34, (2)33
(1)78, (2)63
(l)ll(O)1 (2)10(0)!
(1)0, (2)27, (3)38
(1)41,(2)39,(3)56
U)l,(2)8, (3)154
(1)51, (2)47, (3)48
(1)60, (2)55, (3)58
(1)77, (2)52, (3)48
(1)37, (2)54, (3)54
(1)57, (2)82, (3)66
(1)124, (2)11, (3)31
(1)54, (2)80, (3)38
(1)73, (2)84, (3)47
(1)0, (2)0
Precision
(Relative
Percent
Difference)
_
_
-
_
_
-
_.
_
-
_
_
-
_
_
_
_
_
-
_
-
-
1 Analysis repeated
2 Niagara County Refuse Disposal
3 Matrix interferences
k Acid portion evaporated
-------
Table 8. Quality assurance results for waste-disposal sites (continued)
[Site locations shown in specific site descriptions.]
Surrogate Recoveries (in percent) Precision
Date
collected
08-20-82
do
08-26-82
do
do
do
do
08-27-82
do
do
do
do
08-30-82
09-08-82
08-25-82
do
do
09-08-82
See quality
bedrock
01-01-82
01-04-82
a)
Site name Sample Sample (2)
and number no, type
Union Carbide
do (064)
West Seneca
Transfer Station
do (220)
do
do
do
97th St. Church
do (245)
do
do
do
Otis Elevator(144)
Creeks ide Golf
Course (252)
do
do
do
do
assurance results
1
2
1
2
3
3
4
1
2
3
4
4
1
1
1
2
3
3
water
do
substrate3
do3
do3
do3
do3
substrate3
do3
do3
do3
do3
substrate
water
substrate3
do3
do3
water
Decaf luoro-
biphenyl
1-Fluoro- 2
napthalene
_
-
_
(2) 14
(2) 19U15)1
(2) 62
(2) 38
(2) 0
(2H111
(2) 9
(2) 0
(2) 25
(2) 16
(2) 55
(2) 4
(2) 4
(2) 44
(2) 63
(1) Tribroraophenol (Relative
,2-Difluoro- Trifluoro- (2) Dibroraophenol Percent
biphenyl Phenol-d6 m-cresol (3) D ibromobenzene Difference)
32
31
-
5
20U11)2
32
25
1
91
7
07
0
11
57
2
3
29
72
30
32
_
1
18(83)'
13
6
°i
61
3
63
6
9
41
.
_
20
55
(1)57, (2)80, (3)42
(1)33, (2)81, (3)45
(1)18, (2)0
(1)0, (2)0
(1)8(80)', (2)16(61)!
(1)0,(2)17,(3)63
(1)0, (2)0, (3)33
(1)0, (2)0, (3)0
(1)81,(2)61,(3)101
(1)0, (2)0
(1)99, (2)108, (3)111
(1)0, (2)108, (3)24
(1)0, (2)7
(1)105, (2)50, (3)45
-
-
(1)16,(2)126
(1)114, (2)69, (3)55
«
-
-
-
-
-
-
—
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
for unconsolidated deposits in Niagara Falls,
wells in Niagara Falls, and wells
Cayuga Island(084)
Hydraulic Canal
(086)
1
1
water
water
along Niagara
(2)75
(2)52
River - Robert
100
63
Moses Parkway
81
59
(1)115, (2)111, (3)86
(1)92,(2)67,(3)70
-
-
1 Analysis repeated
2 Niagara County Refuse Disposal
3 Matrix interferences
** Acid portion evaporated
-------
Table 9.—Surrogate recoveries for ground-water samples from bedrock
wells in Niagara Falls, N.Y., December 1982 through January 1983.
[All values are in percent; locations shown in pi. 3.]
Site
American Falls Park,
do
Robert Moses Parkway,
do
13th Street
14th Street
Cudaback Street
Niagara Street
61st Street
60th Street
Power Authority State
do
do
(1)
(2)
109 ft well
47 ft well
we 1 1 no . 1
well no. 2
of NY well no. 1
well no. 2
well no. 3
Bromochloromethane (1) d6 Benzene
l-Bromo-2-chloroethane (2) Flourobenzene
(1)85,
(1)61,
(1)88,
(1)94,
(1)93,
(1)92,
(1)86,
(1)67,
(1)66,
(1)64,
(1)69,
(1)112,
(1)101,
(2)97
(2)62
(2)79
(2)94
(2)74
(2)72
(2)66
(2)64
(2)56
(2)60
(2)105
(2)109
(2)105
(1)102,
(1)70,
(1)85,
(1)105,
(1)66,
(1)56,
(1)58,
(1)71,
(1)60,
(1)63,
(1)96,
(1)93,
(1)101,
(2)102
(2)71
(2)87
(2)107
(2)70
(2)67
(2)62
(2)73
(2)65
(2)66
(2)95
(2)103
(2)115
(1) 1-Fluoronapthalene (1)
(2) p-Dibromobenzene (2)
(3) 2,2'-Difluorobiphenyl (3)
American Falls Park, 109 ft well
do
47 ft well
Robert Moses Parkway, well no. 1
do well no. 2
13th Street
14th Street
Cudaback Street
Niagara Street
61st Street
60th Street
Power Authority State of NY no. 1
do no. 2
do no. 3
Phenol~d6
Dibromophenol
2,4,6-Tribromo-
phenol
(1)55,
(1)64,
(1)48,
(2)34,
(1)94,
(1)44,
(1)77,
(1)53,
(1)91,
(1)61,
(1)46,
(1)60,
(1)52,
(2)59,
(2)74,
(2)46,
(3)55
(2)105
(2)50,
(2)99,
(2)66,
(2)89,
(2)78,
(2)57,
(2)71,
(2)63,
(3)64
(3)85
(3)76
, (3)79
(3)50
(3)70
(3)60
(3)96
(3)60
(3)44
(3)61
(3)44
(1)65,
(1)43,
(1)65,
(1)64,
(1)62,
(1)47,
(1)52,
(1)36,
(1)57,
(1)43,
(1)42,
(1)45,
(1)44,
(2)70,
(2)46,
(2)65,
(2)55,
(2)43
(2)35,
(2)40,
(2)38,
(2)53,
(2)35,
(2)66,
(2)70,
(2)76,
(3)103
(3)88
(3)94
(3)97
(3)58
(3)56
(3)50
(3)57
(3)56
(3)94
(3)106
(3)97
28
-------
Table 10.—Surrogate recoveries for ground-water samples from wells in
the unconsolidated deposits along the Niagara River, Robert Moses
Parkway, N.Y., January 1983.
[All values are in percent; locations are shown in pi. 3.]
Robert
Robert
Site
Moses Parkway
do
do
do
do
Moses Parkway
do
do
do
do
no.
no.
no.
no.
no.
no.
no.
no.
no.
no.
2
3
4
5
6
2
3
4
5
6
(i) Bromochloromethane
(2) l-Bromo-2-chloroethane
(1)54, (2)124
(1)124, (2)104
(1)39, (2)123
(1)95, (2)102
(1)105, (2)119
(1) 1-Fluoronapthalene
(2) p-Dibromobenzene
(3) 2,2'-Difluorobiphenyl
(1)41, (2)51, (3)45
(1)76, (2)45, (3)48
(1)71, (2)90, (3)77
(1)61, (2)71, (3)59
(1)50, (2)61, (3)52
(1) d6 Benzene
(2) Flourobenzene
(1)101, (2)103
(1)99, (2)98
(1)105, (2)101
(1)83, (2)93
(1)117, (2)92
(1) Phenol-d6
(2) Dibromophenol
(3) 2,4,6-Tribromophenol
(1)37, (2)61, (3)76
(1)1, (2)34, (3)27
(1)73, (2)122, (3)165
(1)78, (2)82, (3)109
(1)52, (2)75, (3)63
Table 11.—Surrogate recoveries for ground-water samples from wells used
to characterize area water quality; Buffalo, Tonawanda, and Niagara
Falls, N.Y., November 1982.
[All values in percent; locations shown in pis. 2 and 3.]
Site
Department of Transportation
Shawnee Road
Niagara Falls Boulevard
Whitmer Road
Airport Triangle
I90-R62 Interchange
West Seneca Street
Griffon Park
Gratwick Park
Department of Transportation
Shawnee Road
Niagara Falls Boulevard
Whitmer Road
Airport Triangle
I90-R62 Interchange
Seneca Street
Griffon Park
Gratwick Park
(1) Bromochloromethane
(2) l-Bromo-2-chloroethane
(1)109, (2)113
(1)73, (2)124
(1)97, (2)132
(1)91, (2)104
(1)100, (2)143
(1)115, (2)94
(1)116, (2)98
(1)110, (2)115
(1)101 (116)1,
(2)100 (112)1
(1) 1-Fluoronapthalene
(2) p-Dibromobenzene
(3) 2,2'-Difluorobiphenyl
(1)32, (2)32, (3)36
(1)32, (2)38, (3)43
(1)42, (2)47, (3)47
(1)35, (2)34, (3)31
(1)49, (2)41, (3)29
(1)37, (2)40, (3)35
(1)62, (2)64, (3)58
(1)57, (2)88, (3)65
(1)62, (2)86, (3)67
(1) d6 Benzene
(2) Flourobenzene
(1)116, (2)124
(1)115, (2)119
(1)121, (2)114
(1)97, (2)92
(1)112, (2)100
(1)113, (2)114
(1)95, (2)127
(1)120, (2)125
(1)99 (103)1,
(2)104 (129)1
(1) Phenol-d6
(2) Dibromophenol
(3) 2,4,6-Tribromophenol
(1)36, (2)69, (3)36
(1)52, (2)128, (3)83
(1)36, (2)108, (3)88
(1)33, (2)134, (3)47
(1)47, (2)79, (3)32
(1)39, (2)83, (3)30
(1)49, (2)85, (3)29
(1)56, (2)95, (3)25
(1)44, (2)105, (3)43
^Analysis repeated
29
-------
EVALUATION OF CONTAMINANT MIGRATION
This report evaluates the potential for ground-water contamination from
migration of hazardous wastes in a qualitative manner only; a quantitative
assessment would require efforts beyond the scope of this preliminary survey.
The following paragraphs give (1) criteria for the qualitative assessment of
contaminant-migration potential, (2) a general method for computing the rate and
quantity of chemical discharges, should sufficient data become available, and
(3) suggestions for future quantitative studies to assess the regional effects
of contaminant migration on the Niagara River.
Qualitative Assessment
All sites are designated as having either a major or indeterminable poten-
tial for contaminant migration in ground water, as described below:
Major potential.—These sites are close to the river or a tributary and (1)
contain hazardous constituents or chemicals and have permeable soils or suf-
ficient ground-water gradients for ground-water movement, as evidenced by site
records, chemical analyses, and water-level or core analyses; and(or) (2) have
evidence that offsite migration of hazardous contaminants has already occurred.
Indeterminable.—These sites were those for which data were inadequate to
make a realistic assessment of contaminant migration; that is, where either the
geohydrologic data or the chemical data were insufficient to indicate the poten-
tial for offsite migration.
Of the 138 sites evaluated in this study, 61 were judged to have a major
potential for contaminant migration and are listed in table 12. The sites
having a major potential may already be contaminating the river(s). The sites
designated as having indeterminable potential may be reclassified as other data
become available.
Quantitative Assessment
A quantitative assessment of migration rates and amount of contamination was
beyond the scope of this study; however, a general procedure for calculating
chemical discharges to the river, based on representative data from this study as
an example, is given below. The methods presented herein should be used with
extreme caution. The values would be, at best, an indication of relative dif-
ferences between sites.
General Considerations
At some sites, the ground-water or substrate samples may have been obtained
from within the disposal area and therefore could not be used to determine off-
site migration. Many of the soil samples were taken from above a clay or con-
fining unit that was unsaturated; chemical migration in such layers would be
considerably slower than in saturated units.
30
-------
Table 12.—Sites designated as having a major potential for contaminant
migration to ground water.
[Locations are shown in pis. 1-3.]
Site no.
107
118
120-122
138
141
162
203
241
24-37
68
105
108
123
136
182
5
14
15-19,250
38
39
40
41
41a-49
56
58,59,248
66
81
83
85
242
251
Site name
BUFFALO AREA (10 sites)
Allied Chemical
Bethlehem Steel Company
Buffalo Color Corp.
McNaughton-Brooks , Inc.
Mobil Oil Corporation
Alltift
Squaw Island
Times Beach
TONAWANDA AREA (20 sites)
Occidental, Durez
Gratwick-Rivers ide Park
Allied Chemical
Tonawanda Coke
Columbus McKinnon Corporation
INS Equipment Corporation
Huntley Power Station
NIAGARA FALLS AREA (31 sites)
Bell Aerospace
DuPont, Necco Park
DuPont, Buffalo Avenue
Occidental, Love Canal
Occidental, Hyde Park
Occidental, 102nd Street
Occidental, Buffalo Avenue S-Area
Occidental, Buffalo Avenue Plant
Olin, 102nd Street
Olin, Buffalo Avenue Pland
Reichold-Varcum
Niagara County Refuse Disposal
Buffalo Avenue
Griffon Park
Charles Gibson
Solvent Chemical
EPA number
915004
915009
915012a-c
915034
915040
915054
915052
915080
932018
932060
915003-b
915055-a
915016
915031
915063
932052
932047
932013a-f
932020
932021
932022
932019a
932019b-i
932031
932051a,b, and
932038
932040
932026
932080
932081
932096
—
31
-------
To assess the effects of each site on the Niagara River would require eval-
uation of geohydrologic and plume characteristics of each site by periodic,
long-term monitoring. Specific knowledge of the following would be required:
1. Type and extent of unconsolidated material and bedrock units.
2. Vertical and horizontal permeability for pertinent geologic units.
(Horizontal and vertical permeabilities are not equal.)
3. Rate and direction of ground-water flow (based on potentiometric gradients
and saturated thickness of units.)
4. Effect of manmade disturbances such as conduits, storm drains, sanitary
sewers, water lines, retaining walls, etc., on rate or direction of flow*
5. Sources, extent, and characteristics of chemical plumes, including con-
taminant concentrations and time and spatial variation.
6. Contaminants' degree of mixing and rate of leaching.
7. Chemical interactions, changes, and attenuation between site and river.
Method of Computation
An analytical approach for calculating discharges to the river would use
Darcy's law, expressed by the following equation:
ki
V=~ (1)
where: v = average linear velocity of ground-water movement
k = permeability of the material
i = hydraulic gradient
n = the effective porosity of the material
The equation can be used if the values are known and have small variability. A
two-dimensional sketch showing these relationships in a ground-water system is
given in figure 2. Some estimated values for these variables in the
Erie-Niagara County area are given below.
Permeability.—Permeability tests on the porous fill and sand from some sites
yielded mean values of about 10~3 cm/s. The vertical permeability of the clay
units at the sites ranged from 10~5 to 10~9 cm/s; no data on horizontal per-
meabilities are available. Clay is highly anisotropic owing to the internal
structure and alignment of the platey minerals that form it; therefore, horizon-
tal permeability within clay can exceed the vertical permeability a hundredfold
Sand stringers in clay may increase both horizontal and vertical permeability of
a given unit.
Hydraulic gradient.—The hydraulic gradients in the areas studied are poorly
defined. During the test-drilling phase of the study in 1982, perched water was
encountered above a clay unit at many sites, and the regional water table was
encountered within the clay. The differences in hydraulic head between the
32
-------
perched water and the water table varied considerably among sites—generally
frota 0.5 to 5 ft, although greater differences occurred at some sites.
The vertical hydraulic gradient is calculated by dividing the difference
between water levels at two wells in the same unit by the saturated thickness of
the unit (fig. 2). Horizontal hydraulic gradients is calculated by dividing the
difference between water-level altitude in two wells by the distance (L) be-
tween the wells (fig. 2). In general, the horizontal gradients at the sites
studied are relatively small except in areas where geologic conditions or arti-
ficial recharge have caused ground-water mounding.
Effective porosity.—The effective porosity (the fraction of interconnected
pore space available for fluid transmission) of the materials at the sites
studied is estimated to range from 0.3 to 0.7. Fill and sand porosity ranges
from 0.3 to 0.4, and clay porosity ranges from 0.5 to 0.7.
Flow velocity.—Substituting the maximum and minimum values for the variables
discussed above into equation 1 yields the ranges of horizontal and vertical
velocity of ground water given below:
n= effective porosity
b= saturated thickness
L = distance
Ky'vertical hydraulic conductivity
«h=horizontal hydraulic conductivity
hx=hydrostatic head
oo
RIVER
C f
Kv=10~6-10~7
-h3»2-5feet
••••*••
I
h! - h2=.5->5feet
b*20feet
Bedrock (fractured)
Figure 2. Horizontal and vertical ground-water gradients in a
generalized hydrologia cross section.
33
-------
Vertical velocity: . (2.8 x 10~3 ft/d) ( 5 ft)
Vmax = _ki = 20 = 2.4 x 10~3 ft/d
n 0.3
(2.8 x 10~6 ft/d) (_5 ft)
Vmin = ki = 20 = 1 x 10~6 ft/d.
n 0.7
Horizontal velocity: Vmax = (2.8 x IP"1 ft/d) (.005 ft) = 0.005 ft/d
0.3
Vmin = (2.8 x 10~3 ft/d) (.002 ft) = 8 x 10~6 ft/d.
0.7
The calculations indicate that ground-water movement in the area studied is
relatively slow and ranges over three orders of magnitude. The application of
such a wide range may be inappropriate for specific site analysis; local
geologic and hydrologic variations could change the velocities substantially.
Contaminant flux.—To assess the rate of contaminant discharge to the river
from equation (1), multiply the velocity by the cross-sectional area of a site
and by the effective porosity, then by appropriate conversion factors to obtain
discharge, in gal/d (eq. 2). Then multiply the flow rate by the chemical con-
centration and appropriate conversion factors to obtain the flux of con-
taminants, in Ib/d (eq. 3).
Q = vAn x 7.48 gal
(2)
where:
where:
Q
V
A
n
F
Q
c
= flow rate, in gal/d;
= average linear velocity, in ft/d;
= cross-sectional area, in ft2;
= effective porosity.
F = QC x 3.785 L_
Ib
(3)
§al 4.54 x 108
flux of contaminants, in Ib/d;
flow rate, in gal/d;
concentration, in yg/L.
Again, note that the calculations are only an example and should not be used
as measures of contamination from the sites.
REGIONAL HYDROLOGIC EVALUATION
This section describes hydrogeologic character—the unconsolidated deposits
and bedrock units, the ground-water conditions, and the general ground-water
quality—of the three study areas. The individual waste-disposal sites in each
area are described in the appendices.
34
-------
BUFFALO AREA
Geology
The Buffalo study area (pi. 1) consists of units of sedimentary bedrock
composed of shale, limestone, and dolomite overlain by unconsolidated deposits
of clay, sand, and till. The bedrock units are of Silurian and Devonian age;
the unconsolidated deposits are primarily of Pleistocene age. The extent of
the sedimentary bedrock units is shown in figure 3; the distribution of the
unconsolidated units is shown in figure 4.
The bedrock units of concern in this study are: Camillus Shale, Bertie
Limestone, and Akron Dolomite (described as one unit); Onondaga Limestone;
Marcellus Shale, and the Skaneateles Formation. The unconsolidated deposits
of interest are of glacial origin and consist of a glaciolacustrine clay-sand
deposit, end-moraine deposits, and an outwash-terrace-delta gravel deposit.
Bedrock Units.—The oldest sedimentary bedrock unit encountered in this
study is the Camillus Shale of Silurian age (fig. 3), which occurs only in the
northern part of the Buffalo area. This unit has been described by LaSala
(1968) as a gray, red, and green thin-bedded shale containing massive
mudstone; the unit also contains beds and lenses of gypsum approaching 5 ft in
thickness. Subsurface information indicates a dolomitic mudrock to be inter-
bedded within the unit also. The Camillus Shale, estimated to be about 400 ft
in thickness, dips southward throughout the area at approximately 40 ft/mi.
Information from gypsum miners indicates that the dip of the formation is
undulatory within a range of a few feet.
Two other units of Silurian age overlie the Camillus Shale—the Bertie
Limestone and the overlying Akron Dolomite. The Bertie Limestone is a gray
and brown dolomite with some interbedded shale; the Akron Dolomite is a
greenish-gray and buff fine-grained dolomite (LaSala, 1968). The Bertie
Limestone, the thicker of the two units, ranges from 50 to 60 ft thick,
whereas the Akron Dolomite is estimated to be 8 ft thick. Both formations dip
southward, as does the underlying Camillus Shale.
The Onondaga Limestone of middle Devonian age overlies this limestone-
dolomite unit; the two units are separated by an unconformity or an erosional
contact. The Onondaga Limestone consists of three members. The lowest, which
overlies the Akron Dolomite, is a gray, coarse-grained limestone generally a
few feet thick. This member, according to Buehlor and Tesmer (1963), grades
laterally into reef deposits, thereby increasing its thickness. The middle
member consists of a gray limestone and blue chert and reaches a thickness of
40 to 45 ft. The upper member is a dark gray to tan limestone ranging in
thickness from 50 to 60 ft. The overall thickness of the Onondaga Limestone
is approximately 110 ft.
The Marcellus Shale overlies this limestone unit; the formation is
described by LaSala (1968) as being black and fissile. The unit ranges in
thickness from 30 to 55 ft and dips generally southward at 40 ft/mi. The
uppermost unit within the study area is the Skaneateles Formation. It is
olive-gray to dark-gray and black, fissile shale with calcareous beds. The
lower 10 feet of the unit is gray limestone. Total thickness is 60 to 90
feet. This unit is found in the southernmost part of the study area.
35
-------
EXPLANATION
78° 52'30
Base from USGS, 1974
Geology from LaSala, 1968
5MILES
O
0)
Q
CL
O.
c
(0
C
O
(II
Cr
CO
Q.
Q.
Genesee and Sonyea Formations
Ludlowville and Moscow Shale
Marcellus and Skaneateles Shales
Onondaga Limestone
Bertie Limestone and Akron Dolomite
Camillus Shale
Boundary of area
Geologic contact
Figure 3. Bedrock geology of the Buffalo area.
La Sola, 1968.)
(Modified from
36
-------
EXPLANATION
78° 52'30
Base from USGS, 1974
Geology from Muller, 1977
SMILES
o
Lake silt, sand and clay
Lake silt, sand and clay
Ground moraine
Boundary of area
Glacial marginal position
Geologic contact, dashed
where uncertain
Figure 4. Surfiaial geology of the Buffalo area.
Muller, 1977.)
(Modified from
37
-------
No additional data on the bedrock units within the Buffalo area were
obtained. The geology of the units is summarized by La Sala (1968) in his
report about ground-water resources of the Erie-Niagara basin.
Unconsolidated Deposits.—The unconsolidated units (fig. 4) consist of
glacial material deposited during the latter part of the Pleistocene epoch.
The main unconsolidated unit in the Buffalo area is a glaciolacustrine clay-
sand deposit consisting of silt, fine to medium saad, and clay and containing
laminae of alternating sand and clay.
Two other unconsolidated deposits of lesser extent are present in the area-
an end-moraine deposit and a small area of outwash, terrace, and delta gravel.
The end-moraine material, which consists of ablation and lodgment tills or
poorly sorted gravel that contain more than 20 percent carbonate and
crystalline clasts, was deposited at the edge of an ice sheet by meltwater
either at the end of an advance or during a stillstand of glacial retreat.
The outwash, terrace, and delta gravels, which consist of well-sorted pebbles
and cobbles with sand, contain more than 30 percent carbonate and crystalline
clasts. The material was deposited by meltwater streams forming coalescent
aprons near the ice sheet or as stream terraces or terrace remnants.
Three test holes were drilled to bedrock in the Buffalo area to help
define the subsurface geology; their locations are shown in plate 1. The
geologic descriptions are as follows:
Boring no.
SA-9
Depth (ft)
Description
0
- 1.5
SA-10
SA-11
1.5 - 6.5
6.5 - 11.5
11.5 - 25.5
25.5
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 6.5
6.5 - 11.0
11.0
0 - 16.5
16.5 - 21.5
21.5 - 36.5
36.5 - 60.0
60.0
Topsoil
Sand, brown
Clay, sandy, with gravel, dark brown
Clay, sand with clay, gray, wet at 11.5 ft
Bedrock
Topsoil
Clay, sandy, red
Clay, some gravel, red
Bedrock, material was dry throughout
Fill, black, ground water at 10 ft
Clay, silty, green
Clay, silty, gray-green
Clay, silty, pinkish-gray
Bedrock
The geologic information from these test holes, combined with the data from
the waste-disposal sites, enables a general characterization of the area.
The unconsolidated deposits, primarily the glaciolacustrine clay, tend to
decrease in thickness toward the east and north, where bedrock rises to less
than 5 ft below land surface. Also, the clay unit is generally less than 2 ft
below land surface except where it has been removed by landfilling and waste-
disposal operations or urbanization.
38
-------
Aquifer Lithology and Water-Bearing Characteristics
The ground-water system within the Buffalo area consists of a fractured
bedrock aquifer and an overlying aquifer of unconsolidated deposits.
Bedrock aquifer.—The bedrock aquifer consists of all the bedrock units
discussed previously. The main sources of water are the fractures and solu-
tion cavities. The specific-capacity and transmissivity values of selected
bedrock aquifer units are shown below.
Specific capacityzTransmissivity2
Bedrock unit1 (gal/min)/ft (gal/d)/ft
Akron Dolomite
Camillus Shale
Min
2
4
Max
13
83
Min
4,000
7,000
Max
25,000
70,000
1 Position of units is shown in figure 3.
2 Data from LaSala (1968)
The specific capacity of a well is the rate of discharge of water from the
well divided by the drawdown of the water level within the well. If the spe-
cific capacity is constant except for the time variation, it is roughly pro-
portional to the transmissivity of the aquifer. Transmissivity is the rate at
which water is transmitted through a unit width of the aquifer under a unit
hydraulic gradient.
The data above indicate that these two properties differ considerably within
and among the units. This variation reflects the amount and size of the frac-
tures and solution cavities.
Unconsolidated aquifer.—The unconsolidated aquifer consists of a glacio-
lacustrine clay and sand and gravel deposits. The thicker unit is the glacio-
lacustrine clay. The test drilling during the summer of 1982 encountered the
water table at various depths within the clay, and saturated sand stringers up
to 3 inches thick were common. These stringers were not large, however, and
generally thinned out within a few feet.
A seasonal water table above the clay unit was observed during wet periods
but not during the summer. This water table is formed by the ponding of
infiltrated precipitation above the relatively impermeable clay. As the water
mounds upward, gradients toward natural or manmade topographic lows develop
and eventually discharge to nearby surface-water bodies. As the season becomes
drier and warmer, vegetation increases and takes up the remaining ground water
through transpiration.
The hydrologic properties of the unconsolidated aquifer within the Buffalo
area are also described in consultants' reports for Buffalo Color Corporation
(sites 120-122), Bethlehem Steel Corporation (site 118), and the Alltift
Landfill (site 162).
The general range of hydraulic conductivity was 0.0328 to 155.8 ft/d. The
larger value can be attributed to slag fill material, which would have a con-
siderably greater permeability than the glaciolacustrine clay. A permeability
test was performed on a clay sample from the Alltift landfill; the permeability
ranged from 1.6 x 10"1* to 1.8 x 10-lf ft/d.
39
-------
The rate of ground-water movement within the unconsolidated aquifer at the
Buffalo Color Corporation (sites 120-122) was calculated and ranges from 0.02 to
0.06 ft/yr.
The direction of ground-water movement in the unconsolidated aquifer is
generally toward the major surface-water bodies—Lake Erie, Niagara River,
and Buffalo River (fig. 4). The ground-water flow pattern is dissected in the
northern part of the area, where impermeable bedrock is less than 5 ft below
land surface, as indicated in figure 4. This unsaturated zone diverts the
flow northward and southward.
Ground-Water Quality
The quality of ground water in the bedrock aquifer in the Buffalo area has
been documented by LaSala (1968), who included maps showing the concentration
ranges for sulfate, hardness, and chloride. Sulfate concentrations given in
that report ranges from 100 to 500 ppm and hardness (as CaC03) from 150 to 1,000
ppm; chloride concentrations range from 100 to 1,500 ppm, and specific conduc-
tance ranges from 1,000 to 9,000 vimho/cm.
To estimate background water quality in the Buffalo area, a water sample
was collected from the unconsolidated deposits in the fall of 1982 and ana-
lyzed for priority pollutants. The observation well was on Seneca Street
(well SA-9, pi. I), in the eastern part of the area just east of the Buffalo
city line, and was screened above the bedrock contact. The results are given
in table 14. Cadmium, lead, and zinc exceeded USEPA drinking-water criteria;
minor amounts of some organic compounds were also detected. Additional
sampling of the ground water in the unconsolidated aquifer would be needed to
define the quality of water in this aquifer in the Buffalo area.
Three substrate samples were collected in the Buffalo area at localities
not affected by waste-disposal sites to compare their concentrations of
heavy metals with those in substrate samples from waste-disposal sites.
Results are given in table 13.
Table 13.—Heavy-metal concentrations in samples from undisturbed soils
in Buffalo, N.Y., June 1, 1983
[Locations shown in pi. 1. Concentrations in yg/kg.]
Location
Forest Lawn
Cemetery
Martin Luther
King Park
Holy Cross
Cemetery1
Sample
number
SB-1
SB-2
SB-3
Cadmium
5,000
5,000
9,000
Chromium
8,
8,
30,
000
000
000
Copper
7,000
10,000
40,000
Lead
20,
40,
290
000
000
,000
Mercury
100
90
280
Nickel
10
20
40
,000
,000
,000
Zinc
31,000
42,000
160,000
1 This location is downwind from a major industrial area.
40
-------
Table 14.—Analyses of a ground-water sample from well SA-9 in the uncon-
solidated deposits along Seneca Street, West Seneca, N.Y., November
13, 1982.
[Location shown in pi. 1. Concentrations are in pg/L. Dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Inorganic constituents
Antimony 2
Arsenic 17
Beryllium
Cadmium 22t
Chromium 1
Copper 160
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Zinc
490t
210
1
53,000t
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride 3.2
Toluene 3.9
Ethylbenzene LT
DDT 0.17t
Nonpriority pollutants
Chlordene
l-Methyl-3-phenoxybenzene1
l-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethanol1
2-Ethylhexanoic acid1
Exo-2-chloro-l-methyl-
bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane1
Cis-l-bromo-2-chlorocyclo-
hexane1
Benzenepropanoic acid1
0.19
LT
490
15.7
LT
LT
67
Phenol LT
Naphthalene LT
Dimethyl phthalate LT
Diethyl phthalate 19
Dibutyl phthalate LT
1,3-Dimethylbenzene1 LT
2-Butoxyethanol1 LT
l-(l-isobutyl-3-methyl-l-
butenyl)-pyrrolidine LT
2,3,3,4-Tetramethylpentane1 LT
Methyl-3,5-di-O-methyl-alpha-
D-xylofuranoside1 550
N-Ethylbutanamide1 100
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water.
41
-------
TONAWANDA AREA
Geology
The Tonawanda study area (pi. 2) consists of unconsolldated deposits of
clay, sand, and till of Pleistocene and Holocene age overlying Camillus Shale
bedrock of Silurian age.
Bedrock Units.—The Camillus Shale is the only bedrock unit encountered in
the area. As described previously, it is a gray, red, and green thin-bedded
unit with massive mudstone and also contains beds and lenses of gypsum.
Thickness of the shale is estimated to be 400 ft but decreases to the north
near the contact with the Lockport Dolomite.
Unconsolidated Deposits.—The unconsolidated units consist of glacial
material deposited during the latter part of the Pleistocene epoch and
lacustrine material deposited during the early Holocene. The distribution of
unconsolidated deposits in the area is shown in figure 5.
The Pleistocene materials are similar to those in the Buffalo area except
for a ground-moraine deposit, which consists mainly of lodgment till, silty clay
till, and sandy till. This deposit was formed by the transport and deposition
of material beneath the southward flowing continental ice sheet (Muller, 1977)
and is thus compacted and relatively impermeable.
The northern part of the area contains a Holocene lacustrine deposit con-
sisting primarily of clay with stringers of sand and silt. Most stringers are
less than 3 inches thick and are discontinuous throughout the area.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled five test holes in 1982 to obtain addi-
tional data on the subsurface geology of the area. (Locations of these holes,
SA-4 through SA-8, are shown on pi. 2.) The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring No. Depth (ft) Description
SA-4 0 - 1.5 Topsoil
1.5 - 6.5 Clay, sand, green
6.5 - 18.5 Clay, pink
18.5 Bedrock
SA-5 0 - 6.5 Road fill, rubble
6.5 - 19.0 Clay, pink
19.0 - 24.5 Sand
24.5 Bedrock
SA-6 0 - 3.0 Topsoil, rubble
3.0 - 28.0 Clay, pink
28.0 - 44.0 Sand, silty
44.0 Bedrock
SA-7 0 - 1.5 Topsoil
1.5 - 16.5 Clay, gray-green
16.4 - 19.0 Clay, pink
19.0 - 27.0 Clay, sandy pink
27.0 Bedrock
42
-------
EXPLANATION
o>
-------
Boring No.
SA-8
Depth (ft)
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 31.5
31.5 - 63.0
63.0
Description
Topsoil
Clay, red
Clay, red, interbedded
with gravel
Bedrock
The information obtained from these test borings, together with the data
from the disposal sites, can be used to characterize the geology of the area in
general terms. The unconsolidated deposits, primarily the Pleistocene and
Holocene lacustrine clays, are encountered within 6 ft of land surface.
Their thickness, which seems to be dependent upon the depth to bedrock, ranges
from 18.5 to 63.0 ft. The test drilling confirmed the boundaries of the
unconsolidated deposits as drawn by Muller (1977). Also, the Pleistocene and
Holocene clay units are similar except in color and the presence of sand
stringers in the latter.
Aquifer Lithology and Water-Bearing Characteristics
The hydrologic system of the Tonawanda area is similar to that of the
Buffalo area—a bedrock aquifer consisting of Camillus shale overlain by an
aquifer of unconsolidated deposits.
Water within the bedrock aquifer flows through the joints, fractures, and
solution cavities within the unit. The Camillus Shale is estimated to have a
transmissivity ranging from 7,000 to 70,000 (gal/d)/ft (LaSala, 1968).
Regionally, under nonpumping conditions, ground water in the shale moves west
and south. Ground water in shallow bedrock discharges into Tonawanda Creek,
Ellicott Creek, and the Niagara River (pi. 2)
The overlying aquifer consists of unconsolidated morainal and clay depos-
its. The morainal material is generally a clayey till whose permeability is
as low as that of the lacustrine clays. During the test drilling, ground
water was encountered at various depths within the clayey units; also encoun-
tered were stringers of permeable sand that initially yielded considerable
amounts of water. The yield diminished with time, however, as the stringers
became dewatered.
The low permeability of the deposits causes a seasonal perched water table,
similar to that of the Buffalo area, during periods of high precipitation.
This water table discharges into areas of low topography and eventually into
nearby surface-water bodies.
The hydrologic properties of the unconsolidated aquifer have been
discussed in several consultant reports on the geohydrology of the major
disposal sites; these reports are cited in the site descriptions (appendix B).
Permeability tests done by consultants on clay samples from several of the
disposal sites indicate that the vertical permeability is low, ranging from
10~5 to 10~8 cm/s. This is probably the reason for the nearly steady water
levels in monitoring wells screened in this aquifer. Horizontal permeability
may be orders of magnitude greater than vertical permeability.
44
-------
The direction of ground-water movement in the aquifer is generally toward
the major surface-water bodies—the Niagara River and Ellicott, Sawyer, and
Tonawanda Creeks (pi. 2).
Ground-Water Quality
The chemical quality of ground water in the bedrock aquifer has been
investigated by LaSala (1968). Concentrations of sulfate ranged from 100 to
1,000 mg/L and hardness (as CaC03) from 1,500 to 3,000 mg/L. Chloride con-
centrations ranged from 100 to 1,500 mg/L, and specific conductance from 1,500
to 9,000 Mmho/cm at 25°C.
Water samples were collected in the fall of 1982 from five observation
wells (SA-4, 5, 6, 7, and 8; locations shown in pi. 2 ) screened in the
unconsolidated deposits above the bedrock contact and were analysed for
priority pollutants. Four of the wells were along the eastern edge of
the area and one was adjacent to the Niagara River. Results of the analyses
(table 16) indicate that concentrations of cadmium, lead, and zinc exceeded
USEPA drinking-water criteria and NYS ground-water standards. A few organic
compounds were detected, all in minimal quantities except methylene chloride
and toluene. Chlordane was detected at a well along the eastern edge of the
area, and a-chlordane was detected at one well adjacent to the Gratwick-
Riverside Park site along the Niagara River. Additional sampling of ground
water in the aquifer would be needed to define its quality in the Tonawanda
area.
Three substrate samples were collected at localities not affected by
waste-disposal sites in the Tonawanda area and were analyzed for heavy metals;
results are given in table 15.
Table 15.—Heavy-metal concentrations in substrate samples from undisturbed
soils in Tonawanda, N.Y., May 31, 1983 and June 1, 1983.
[Concentrations in yg/kg. Locations shown in pi. 2]
Location
Beaver Island State Park
Mount Olive Cemetery
Oppenheim Park
Ellicott Creek Park
Beaver Island State Park
Mount Olive Cemetery
Oppenheim Park
Ellicott Creek Park
Sample
number
SB-4
SB-5
SB-6
SB-7
SB-4
SB-5
SB-6
SB-7
Cadmium
4,000
4,000
1,000
4,000
Mercury
200
120
110
120
Chromium
8,000
20,000
20,000
10,000
Nickel
20,000
30,000
20,000
20,000
Copper
10,000
20,000
20,000
20,000
Zinc
57,000
58,000
59,000
47,000
Lead
100,000
30,000
20,000
20,000
45
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Table 16.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in the unconsolidated
deposits along the Niagara River, Tonawanda, N.Y. , November 13, 1982
[Concentrations are in Mg/L, dash indicates that constituents or
compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but at less
than the quantifiable detection limit. Locations shown in pi. 2.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(SA-4) (SA-5) (SA-6)
Whitmer Gratwick Niagara Falls
Road Park Boulevard
pH
Specific conductance (ymho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Zinc
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride
Toluene
Ethylbenzene
Dibutylphthalate
Phenol
Pentachlorophenol
a-chlordane
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethylphthalate
Methylcyclopentane1
3-Methylpentane1
1-MethyIpentylhydroperoxide1
2,2,3-Trimethylbutane1
2-Methyl-l-propene
Hexane
2,4-Dimethylpentanol1
Chlordene
6.9
975
18.2
2t
12t
1
65
180t
33
16,000t
42
41
LT
LT
5.6t
LT
LT
LT
41
LT
6.6
2,590
2T
20t
1
33
220t
18
1,400
110
170
LT
11
1.08T
8.2
LT
0.05
6.8
985
It
10
1
18
120t
18
630
210
410
25
14
6.3
LT
40
1.6
t
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or NYS standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
46
-------
Table 16.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in the unconsolidated
deposits along the Niagara River, Tonawanda, N.Y., November 13, 1982
(continued)
[Concentrations are in yg/L, dash indicates that constituents or
compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but at less
than the quantifiable detection limit. Locations shown in pi. 1.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(SA-4)(SA-5)(SA-6)
Whitmer Gratwick Niagara Falls
Road Park Boulevard
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
1,3-Dimethylbenzene1 — — LT
2-Ethylhexanoic acid1 — — 140
Octanoic acid1 — — 47
Nonanoic acid1 — — 22
4-Hydroxy-3,5-
dimethylbenzaldehyde1 — — LT
2,2,4-Trimethylpentane1 15
Methylcyclohexane1 28
2,5-Dimethylhexane1 40
2,4-Dimethylhexane1 43
Ethylcyclopentane1 7.8
2,3,3-Trimethylpentane1 19
2-Methylheptane1 48
3-Methylheptane1 25
3,3-Dimethylhexane1 14
2,3,4-Trimethylhexane1 15
2-Methyl-4-heptanone1 18
1,4-Dimethylbenzene 26 — —
1,2-Dimethylbenzene1 4.7
2-Heptanone 3.1 —
2,2,4,4-Tetramethyl-3-pentanone1 94
2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptanol1 5.4
2-Decanone1 40 — —
2-Decanol1 LT
1,4-Dioxane1 61 — —
4-Chloro-trans-cyclohexanol1 7.4 — —
5-Ethyldihydro-2(3H)-furanone1 7.2
4-Methylbenzoic acid1 LT
Compound potentially of natural origin
Hexanoic acid1 — — 160
2-Hexanone1 5.4 — —
47
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Table 16.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in the unconsolidated
deposits along the Niagara River, Tonawanda, N.Y., November 13, 1982
(continued)
[Concentrations are in Mg/L, dash indicates that constituents or
compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but at less
than the quantifiable detection limit. Locations shown in pi. 2.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(SA-7)(SA-8)
Shawnee Department of
Road Transportation
pH 7.3 6.6
Specific conductance (ymho/cm) 585 2,400
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony — —
Arsenic 2t 7T
Beryllium
Cadmium 10 22t
Chromium 2 1
Copper 40 18
Lead 290t 210t
Mercury — —
Nickel 24 8
Selenium
Zinc 690 3,800
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride 30 3.6
Toluene 15 5.1
Ethylbenzene — LT
Dimethyl phthalate — 130
Dibutylphthalate — 2
1,4-Dioxane-'- — LT
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethylphthalate — LT
Methylcyclopentane1 3.8 —
1-Methylpentylhydroperoxide^ — 1.4
Chlordene 0.13
Butyl-2-methylpropyl/phthalate — 86
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)-ethanol — 140
1,l-0xybis(2-ethoxy)ethane1 — 6
Acetic acid, 1-methylpropylester^ — ' 550
2-Pentanol1 — LT
l-Chloro-2-ethenyl-methyl-
cyclopropane1 — LT
1,3-Isobenzofurandione — LT
48
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NIAGARA FALLS AREA
Geology
The Niagara Falls study area (pi. 3) consists of unconsolidated Pleistocene
and Holocene-age deposits of till, lacustrine clay and silt, and alluvial fine
sand underlain by dolomite of middle Silurian age. The bedrock units studied
are the Lockport Dolomite and the upper part of the Rochester Shale. The
bedrock stratigraphy beneath this area is shown in figure 6; the distribution
of unconsolidated deposits is shown in figure 7.
Bedrock Units.—The Lockport Dolomite is a hard and resistant calcium-
magnesium carbonate sedimentary rock that crops out in the study area and forms
the Niagara Escarpment north of Niagara Falls. In the northern part of the
area, erosion has removed much of its upper part, leaving a thickness of only 30
ft at the escarpment, but the unit thickens to the south and, in the southern
part of the city of Niagara Falls, it is 155 ft thick.
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey installed 11 observation wells in the
upper part of the dolomite in the city of Niagara Falls and two open-hole wells
through the entire thickness of the Lockport Dolomite adjacent to the gorge
face. (Locations of the wells are shown on pi. 3.)
Unconsolidated Deposits.—A relatively thin layer of unconsolidated depos-
its, 3 to 35 ft thick, overlies bedrock (fig. 7). Along the upper Niagara
River, in the southern part of Niagara Falls, fill and (or) alluvial fine sand
overlie clay and till or bedrock; elsewhere lacustrine clay and silt overlie the
bedrock. In the middle and northern parts of the area, a layer of till 5 to 20
ft thick overlies bedrock. The till consists of a silty clay or sandy matrix
that was formed by the transport and lodgment of material beneath the flowing
continental ice sheet (Muller, 1977) and is thus compacted and relatively imper-
meable.
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey drilled three test holes (SA-1, SA-2,
and SA-3) to the top of the bedrock; the geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
Depth below
land surface (ft)
Description
SA-1
SA-2
SA-3
0
3.0
18.0
24.0
0
1.5
6.5
24.0
34.0
0
1.5
16.5
20.0
- 3.0
- 18.0
- 24.0
- 1.5
- 6.5
- 24.0
- 34.0
- 1.5
- 16.5
-20.0
Topsoil and fill
Clay, pink
Sand, clayey, with gravel
Bedrock
Topsoil
Fill, black
Clay, pink
Clay and gravel (
Bedrock
Topsoil
Clay, pink
Clay, pink, some
Bedrock
till?)
gravel
49
-------
EXPLANATION
o>
c
01
o
_o
o
o>
01
o
4-t
-
—
ol
Lake silt, sand and clay
Ground moraine
Base from USGS, 1974 Geology from Muller, 1977
Boundary of area
Glacial marginal position
5MILES
Geologic contact, dashed
where uncertain
XX X X XX Strand line
Figure 6. Geologic column of the Niagara Falls area.
50
-------
System
Silurian
1 Ordovician
*
Tl
•o
X
I
i
Group
Cl Inton
Albion
Formation
Lockport Dolomite
Rochester Shale
1 rondequo it L i mes tone
Reynales Limestone
Neahga Shale of Sanford (1933)
Thorold Sandstone
Grlmsby Sandstone
of Williams
(191"*)
Unnamed un i t
Whirlpool Sandstone
Queens ton Shale
Thickness I/
(feet)
150
60
12
10
5
8
"•5
40
20
1,200
Descrl pt Ion
Dark-gray to brown, massive to thin-bedded dolomite,
locally containing algal reefs and small, Irregularly
shaped masses of gypsum. At the base are light-gray,
coarse-grained limestone (Gasport Limestone Member)
and gray shaly dolomite (DeCew Limestone Member of
Williams, 1919).
Oark-gray calcareous shale weathering light-gray
to ol ive.
Light-gray to pinkish-white coarse-grained limestone.
White to yellowish-gray shaly limestone and dolomite.
Greenish-gray soft flssil* shale.
Greenish-gray shaly sandstone.
Reddish-brown to greenish-gray cross-bedded sandstone
interbedded with red to greenish-gray shale.
Gray to greenish-gray shale Interbedded with light-
gray sandstone.
White, quartzltic sandstone.
Brick-red sandy to argillaceous shale.
** Average figure for area. Thickness at falls Is not necessarily
Figure 7. Surficial geology of the Niagara Falls area
-------
The Geological Survey drilled six other test holes (RMP-2 through RMP-6) along
the Robert Moses Parkway in 1982. Test-hole locations are shown on pi. 3.
Aquifer Lithology and Water-Bearing Characteristics
The ground-water system within the Niagara Falls area (pi. 3) consists of
the Lockport Dolomite and an overlying aquifer of unconsolidated deposits, as
shown in the generalized geologic column of the area in figure 6.
Bedrock aquifer.—The Lockport Dolomite consists of a predominantly fine
crystalline matrix with some poorly connected vugs, mostly in the upper part,
but few primary openings through which ground water can move. Significant
ground-water movement occurs in secondary openings such as joints and fractures,
and these may have been slightly widened by solution. The secondary openings
are more numerous in the upper part of the dolomite as a result of weathering.
Some joints and fractures have developed in the underlying Rochester Shale (fig.
6), but not nearly to the extent as in the Dolomite because the shale is less
brittle. Little hydrologic information on the deeper rock units is available.
Most of the ground-water movement occurs along the horizontal bedding joints
of the Lockport, in which Johnston (1964) identified seven major zones. Some
movement also occurs in other thin-bedded zones (0.5 to 4 inches thick), which
tend to be weaker and more likely to fracture than the more massive beds, which
are 2 to 10 ft thick. Johnston (1964) noted that major water movement occurs
within thin-bedded zones that are overlain by thick, massive beds.
Movement of ground water in vertical joints is greatest in the upper 10 to
15 ft of the Dolomite (weathered zone) and in the vicinity of the gorge wall.
Tension-release joints have formed to about 200 ft inland from the gorge wall
since the erosion of the supporting rock mass. These joints are probably signi-
ficant avenues for downward flow of ground water to the Niagara River. The ver-
tical joints near the gorge wall may explain the lack of seepage springs from
the dolomite along the gorge wall. Ground water has been observed to seep out
along the top of the underlying Rochester Shale and other deeper rock units.
Water levels in wells installed in the Lockport Dolomite at depths of 5 to
20 ft below the water table were used to compile a map showing the potentio-
metric surface of the upper water-bearing zones (fig. 8). The differences
among potentiometric heads in deeper water-bearing zones could not be defined
because not enough wells could be installed in each water-bearing zone nor
grouted to seal off the effects of other zones. Johnston (1964) described the
water-bearing bedding joints as being separated by essentially impermeable rock
and considered them as distinct artesian aquifers. The horizontal joints are
probably connected to some extent by vertical fractures, but little information
is available to determine the extent of hydraulic connection.
An unlined storm-sewer tunnel, the Falls Street Tunnel, runs through the
upper part of the Lockport Dolomite in the Niagara Falls area (fig. 8). The tun-
nel starts 1 mi east of the power conduits and 0.7 mi north of the upper Niagara
River and extends westward to a gorge interceptor tunnel near the gorge wall
just north of American Falls. Flow is then pumped to the Niagara Falls
Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Tunnel is 3.5 mi long and slopes at an average
rate of 20 ft/mi toward the gorge face.
52
-------
EXPLANATION
Robert Moses Hydro-
power plant
Potentiometnc contour of the upper
water bearing zone i n the Loekport Dolomite.
Dashed whereapproxlmate. Interval lOfeet.
Arrow shows di rect ion of ground-water
movement
X
Data point-Well in whicha water
measurement was made
Pumped -storage reservoir
Reservoir pump-generating plant
Major industrial pumping center
Well used for cross-section
of Fall Street sewer
City of Niagara Falls
\\\
|M\
I J M
I'll
Fall Streeysewer
Base from U.S. Geological Survey, 1974
Figure 8. Potentiometria surface of the upper water-bearing zones
of the Loekport Dolomite and location of bedrock wells
in the Niagara Falls area.
53
-------
South of the Falls Street Tunnel and east of the power conduits, ground
water in the upper water-bearing zones of the Lockport Dolomite moves northwest
from the Niagara River to the tunnel and the power conduits. This reach of the
tunnel is in the upper 15 ft of the Dolomite, which Johnston (1964) described as
being the most permeable zone owing to weathering, small solution cavities, and
relatively abundant vertical joints. At the east end of the tunnel, water
levels at wells NFB-9 and 10 were 3 to 5 ft above the top of the tunnel, which
indicates a relatively low slope in potentiometric surface, ranging 0.3 to 0.8
ft per 100 ft between the wells and the tunnel.
The potentiometric surface near the intersection of the conduits and the
Falls Street Tunnel may be controlled by the water level in the forebay canal of
the powerplant at the north end of the area (fig. 8). The backfill on top of
the conduits may be more permeable than the dolomite, which would create a
hydraulic connection between the forebay canal and conduit system. Water-level
altitudes measured on March 2, 1983, at wells NFB-11, -12, and -13 adjacent to
the conduits near the Falls Street Tunnel were 547.91, 546.41, and 547.80 ft,
respectively. These altitudes are below that of the weir control (560 ft) at
the sump station at Royal Ave., which would enable ground water in the backfill
to move into the aqueducts if the water level were above 560 ft. Because the
ground-water altitude in the backfill was below the weir control on that date,
no flow into the conduits occurred at that time. A possible discharge area for
ground water in the backfill may be the forebay canal, in which the water level
usually fluctuates between 541 and 546 ft during the winter. During periods of
low water levels in the forebay canal, ground water may be able to flow through
the backfill above the conduits and discharge into the canal. Thus, the direc-
tion of ground-water flow in the immediate area may oscillate according to the
water level in the forebay canal.
The Falls Street Tunnel is a significant ground-water discharge area in
the vicinity of the conduits, where ground-water seepage (estimated 6 Mgal/d)
into the tunnel has been observed at pipe joints where the tunnel crosses the
conduits (Camp, Dresser, and McKee, 1982). Lesser ground-water seepage, mostly
along the northern wall, has been observed along the entire length of the
tunnel.
North of the Falls Street Tunnel and more than 1 mi east of the conduits,
ground water flows southward from the Niagara Escarpment and pumped-storage
reservoir toward the Falls Street Tunnel and the Niagara River. North of the
Falls Street Tunnel and less than 1 mi east of the conduits, ground water also
flows southwest toward the tunnel. Along a 1-mi-wide band along the east side
of the conduits, ground water moves westward toward the conduits.
South of the Falls Street Tunnel and 0.75 mi west of the conduit, an
industrial pumping center withdraws large quantities of ground water (2,000 to
4,000 gal/min). Johnston (1964) reports that part of the pumped water is
induced river water from the Niagara River.
Water-level data are insufficient to indicate the effects of the industrial
pumping center on the upper water-bearing zone of the dolomite. If the well
field has a large cone of influence affecting the upper water zones, ground
water probably moves radially into the well field. If the well field does not
greatly effect the upper water-bearing zone, however, ground water may flow
north-northeast from the river toward the conduits.
54
-------
Approximately 0.75 mi west of the conduits, water levels in the shallow
bedrock wells (NFB-7 and NFB-8, pi. 3) on either side of the Falls Street Tunnel
were 20 ft above the top of the tunnel in December 1982, indicating that ver-
tical downward flow of ground water into the tunnel is impeded by the massive,
relatively unfractured rock units. West of the conduits, the tunnel dips below
the fractured layer (upper 10 to 15 ft of the Lockport Dolomite) and penetrates
less fractured and less weathered dolomite. In this area, ground water in the
upper water-bearing zone flows over the top of the tunnel. Adjacent to shallow
well NFB-7, a deeper well (NFB-7A) was installed and screened at the same depth
as the bottom of the tunnel. The water level in the deeper well was 17.5 ft
lower than that in the adjacent shallow well, which suggest that west of the
conduits, the tunnel drains the water-bearing zones it intercepts but probably
has little effect on the zones above or below. The same phenomenon was seen at
another pair of wells (NFB-5 and 5A) 1.5 mi west of the conduits, in which the
water level in the deeper well (NFB-5A) was 9 ft lower than that in the shallow
well (NFB-5).
From 0.5 to 1.0 mi west of the industrial pumping center, water from the
Niagara River recharges the Lockport Dolomite and flows northwestward to
discharge at the gorge wall. Wells adjacent to the Niagara River at Prospect
and Terrapin Points reveal a steeply declining potentiometric surface toward the
Niagara River in the gorge. The steep potentiometric gradient within 200 ft of
the gorge wall is probably due to the large drop of the river at the falls and
the presence of vertical stress-release joints in the bedrock that allow ground
water to move downward toward the lower river elevation.
In the northwest part of Niagara Falls, ground water flows radially outward
from the apex of a ground-water mound south of the forebay canal. Discharge
areas include the Niagara River to the west and northwest, the forebay canal to
the north, the conduits to the east, and the city to the south. (The central
part of the city has little water-level information to determine ground-water
flow paths). A ground-water divide trending roughly north-south runs through
the central part of the city. Ground water west of the divide flows toward the
Niagara River, and ground water east of the divide flows east-southeast toward
the conduits or possibly south to the industrial pumping center.
Unconsolidated aquifer.—The unconsolidated deposits (fig. 7) consist of
till, lacustrine silt and clay, and alluvial fine sand overlying bedrock. The
till has pebble to cobble clasts embedded in a clayey silt matrix. Permeability
of till and lake deposits is low. During the test drilling of 1982, ground
water was usually encountered 5 to 15 ft below land surface. The unconsolidated
deposits were unsaturated in some areas to the north and along the gorge, where
they are thin.
The low permeability of the deposits causes a seasonal water table to form
in many places, particularly where fill and coarse-grained material overlie the
till or clay. This perched water table usually develops mounds that discharge
radially into topographic lows, drainage ditches, and streams.
The hydrologic properties of the unconsolidated aquifer are discussed in
consultant reports referred to in the site descriptions in appendix C. The
direction of ground-water movement in the aquifer is generally toward the major
surface-water bodies—the Niagara River, Bergholtz Creek, and Cayuga Creeks
(pl. 3).
55
-------
Ground-Water Quality
Canadian studies of chemical quality in natural ground water near the river
indicate that water in the Lockport Dolomite contains lead and zinc concentra-
tions of 300 to 800 Mg/L, with the concentrations increasing with depth (Haynes
and Mostaghal, 1982). The lead and zinc are leached from lead- and zinc-sulfide
minerals (galena and sphalerite) in the host rock. Natural lead concentrations
in most places exceed the USEPA drinking-water criterion of 50 Mg/L, whereas
zinc concentration is generally less than the Federal and State criteria of
5,000 Mg/L. Little information is available about concentrations of other heavy
metals in ground water in the dolomite.
To evaluate whether lead and zinc concentrations are natural or man-
induced, the highest naturally occurring concentration was doubled, giving a
value of 1,600 Mg/L. Analytical results above 1,600 Mg/L were interpreted to be
the result of man's activity.
The presence of natural organic compounds in the rock was evident during
drilling, when an acrid oil smell arose during the crushing of the dolomite.
Natural gas and oil water have been detected in gas-exploration wells in western
New York (Kreidler, 1963). Some of the volatile alkanes of low molecular weight
(methane, propane, n-butane, and n-pentane) may occur as natural gas in the
Lockport Dolomite.
Ground-water samples were collected and analyzed for USEPA priority pollu-
tants in November and December of 1982 and in January 1983. Three wells (SA-1,
SA-2, and SA-3, pi. 3) were screened in the unconsolidated deposits above the
bedrock in the eastern part of the Niagara Falls area, five wells (RMP-2 through
RMP-6) were screened at or just above the bedrock contact along the Robert Moses
Parkway adjacent to the upper Niagara River, four wells (NFB-1 through NFB-4)
were installed in the Lockport Dolomite near the gorge wall within the city of
Niagara Falls, and nine wells (NFB-5 through NFB-13) were screened in the
Dolomite along the Falls Street Tunnel (pi. 3). The results of the analyses are
given in tables 17, 18, and 19.
Water from wells SA-1, SA-2, and SA-3 showed cadmium, lead, and zinc con-
centrations that exceed USEPA criteria for drinking water and the New York State
ground-water standards. Methylene chloride and toluene were found in signifi-
cant concentrations, and other organic compounds were also detected.
Water from wells RMP-2 through RMP-6 had high concentrations of heavy
metals, inorganic constituents, and organic compounds, particularly cyanide,
methylene chloride, dichloroethylene, chloroform, trichloroethylene, tetra-
chloroethane, tetrachloroethylene, and toluene. The presence of these compounds
in these concentrations can probably be attributed to the disposal practices of
the industrial complex bordering the northern part of the Parkway. Cyanide
exceeded the USEPA criterion for drinking water; and cyanide, lead, chloroform,
trichloroethylene, benzene, and the BHC's exceeded New York State ground-water
standards.
A deep and a shallow well were installed in the Lockport Dolomite at each of
two sites along the gorge wall. Wells NFB-2 and NFB-4 were screened several
feet below the first water-bearing zone encountered, and wells NFB-1 and NFB-3
penetrated the entire thickness of the Lockport and were left as open holes so
56
-------
that a composite sample could be collected from all water-bearing zones in the
formation. Generally, the ground-water quality of the deep wells was similar to
that of the Niagara River, which may indicate that river water discharges into
the dolomite in this area.
Heavy-metal concentrations were high in the shallow wells (NFB-2 and NFB-4)
along the gorge wall, especially in well NFB-2, where of cadmium, lead, and zinc
(66, 3,600 and 8,700 ug/L, respectively) exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking
water and New York State standards for ground water. The mercury concentration
in well NFB-3 also exceeded the criterion and standard.
Several organic compounds were present in the wells along the gorge wall.
Heptachlor exceeded New York State ground-water standards in wells NFB-1 through
NFB-4, and ct-BHC exceeded the standard in well NFB-4.
Except for hexane and 2-methyl-l-pentene, both in concentrations of 20
Ug/L, the concentration of other organic compounds in well NFB-3 were below 5
Ug/L. Higher concentrations and several more compounds were detected in wells
NFB-1 and NFB-2. Several of the alkanes and alkenes may be derived from natural
gas in the dolomite. Heavy-metal concentrations at wells NFB-11 through NFB-13
were less than the USEPA drinking-water standards, although the zinc con-
centration (3,500 ug/L) at well NFB-11 is probably higher than in natural ground
water in the dolomite.
The largest variety and highest concentrations of organic compounds were
detected in ground-water samples from two wells (NFB-11 and NFB-13) along the
east side of the conduits. In well NFB-11, toluene, benzene, and trans-1,2-
dichloroethylene were detected at 34, 180, and 1,400 ug/L> respectively, and in
well NFB-13 at 5.7, 250, and 1,400 yg/L, respectively. A total of 56 organic
compounds were found in ground water at well NFB-11, and 24 at well NFB-13.
Ground water from well NFB-12, on the opposite (west) side of the conduits,
contained fewer compounds (12) and at generally much lower concentrations. The
significant difference in water quality on the two sides of the conduits
suggests that ground water does not flow across the conduits, but probably into
the backfill material, then northward toward the forebay canal.
The highest heavy-metal concentrations were detected at well NFB-7, where
cadmium, lead, zinc, and selenium (89, 3,500, 30,000, and 760 Ug/L,
respectively) exceeded the USEPA drinking-water standards. A seepage sample
collected from the dolomite wall inside the Falls Street Tunnel at 27th Street
was found to contain 14,000 ug/L of zinc and 430 ug/L of lead (Camp, Dresser and
McKee Eng., 1982). Another seepage sample collected from the tunnel wall 1,600
ft west of 27th Street contained natural levels of zinc (220 ug/L). The high
concentrations of heavy metals in the vicinity south of the Falls Street Tunnel
and 27th Street may be due to leaching of metal debris from several vacant lots
in the area or possibly from leachate moving from the industrial area to the
south. More ground-water-level data would be needed to determine the effects of
the industrial pumping center on ground-water flow in that area, however.
Several organic compounds were detected in wells NFB-5 through NFB-8 (table
19), but the concentrations were less than 9 ug/L for all constituents except
hexane (20 to 160 ug/L) in all four wells and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene (80 ug/L)
57
-------
in well NFB-7. The hexane may have been introduced when used as a solvent to
wash the sampling bailer.
Three substrate samples were collected in the Niagara Falls area at locali-
ties not affected by waste-disposal sites to compare their concentration of
heavy metals with those in substrate samples from waste-disposal sites. Results
are given in table 20.
Table 17. — Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in unconsolidated
deposits along the Niagara River, Niagara Falls, N.Y. ,
November 10, 1983.
[Locations are shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but at less than the quantifiable
detection limit.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(SA-1) (SA-2) (SA-3)
1190-162 Griffon Airport
Interchange Park Triangle
_ (24.0) _ (20.0)
pH 7.2
Specific conductance (umho/cm) 480
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony — — 4
Arsenic 1 2 4t
Beryllium — — —
Cadmium 13t 17t 100T
Chromium 11 8
Copper 39 31 800
Lead 230T 130t 2,200t
Mercury — — —
Nickel 28 14 980
Selenium —
Zinc 3,300 8,900t 640,000!
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or NYS standards for maximum concentration in ground water.
58
-------
Table 17.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in unconsolidated
deposits along the Niagara River, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,
November 10, 1983 (continued)
[Locations are shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in Mg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but at less than the quantifiable
detection limit.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(SA-1) (SA-2) (SA-3)
1190-162 Griffon Airport
Interchange Park Triangle
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride 140 7.1 375
Toluene 150 10 230
Ethylbenzene 5.9 LT 4.5
Chloroform 4.2
Dibutylphthalate 12 0 2.05
Mirex — 0.21
Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene — — 23
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethylphthalate LT 7.7 2.5
Methylcyclopentane1 4.2 5.6 3.7
1-Methylpentylhydro-
peroxide1 (or 1-butanol) 2.0 2.0
Hexane — 12 —
Chlordene — — 0.08
1,1-Ethanediol, diacetetate1 — — 44
heptane1 — — 240
(2, 2-DimethylpropyDoxirane1 — — LT
Methylcyclohexane* — — 17 .
Ethylcyclopentane1 — — 7.7
2,3,5-Trimethylpentane1 — — 14
1,2,3-Trimethylcyclopentane1 — — LT
3-Methyl~2,4-hexadiene1 — — LT
2,3-Dimethylhexane1 — — 5.8
2-Methylheptane1 — — 44
3,3-Dimethylhexanol1 — — 21
1,4-Dimethyljcis-cyclohexane1 — — LT
2,5-Dimethyl-l-hexene1 — — 5.2
2,3,4-Trimethylhexane1 — — 14
(1,l-Dimethylbutyl)oxirane1 — — 2.3
2-Bromohexane1 — — 14
2,6-Dimethylheptane — — 18
1,2-Dimethylbenzene1 11 — 46
1,4-Dimethylbenzene1 5.1 — 15
2,2,4,4-Tetramethyl-3-
pentanone1 10 — 21
59
-------
Table !?•—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells in unconsolidated
deposits along the Niagara River, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,
November 10, 1983 (continued)
[Locations are shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in yg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but at less than the quantifiable
detection limit.]
Well number
(SA-1)
1190-162
Interchange
(SA-2)
Griffon
Park
(SA-3)
Airport
Triangle
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
2-Decanone — — 57
2-Ethoxybutaae1 290 -- 270
2-Pentanone1 — — 9.1
4-Chloro-trans-cyclohexanol1 — — LT
l-chloro-2-ethenyl-l-
methylcyclopropane — — LT
3-Ethylhexane1 11
2-Chloronaphthalene1 LT
2,6-Bis(l,l-dimethylpropyl)-2,5-
cyclohexadiene,1,4-dione1 5.9
5-Ethyldihydro-2(3H)-furanone1 2.8
3,5,5-Trimethylhexanoic acid1 5.1 —
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol1 93
Nonanoic acid1 85 — —
1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid1 LT —
Decanoic acid1 29 —
2,5-Bis(l,1-dimethylpropyl)-
2,5-cyclohexadiene-l,4-dione1 LT —
2-Ethylhexanoic acid1 — 31
Benzoic anhydride1 — 59 —
4-Chlorobenzoic acid1 — 13 —
3-Ethylpentene1 — 6.7
Methylcyclodecane1 — LT
2-Methylundecane1 — LT
4,11-Dimethyltetradecane1 — LT
5-Propyltridecane1 — LT
l-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol — — 8.0
Compounds potentially of natural origin
Hexanoic acid1 13 — —
60
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Table 18.—Analyses of ground-water samples from unconsolidated deposits
along the Niagara River-Robert Moses Parkway, Niagara Falls,
N.Y., January 13, 1983.
[Locations are shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in yg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but at less than the quantifiable
detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(RMP-2) (RMP-3) (RMP-4) (RMP-5) (RMP-6)
29.0 26.0 23.0 25.0 25.0
PH
Specific conductance (yraho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
6.6
2,500
9.3
7.7
627
8.0
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Cyanide
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Zinc
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene Chloride
Chloroform
Trichlorethylene
1,1,2,2-tetrachloro-
ethane
Tetrachloroethylene
Benzene
Toluene
Chlorobenzene
1.3
It
2
10
7
130t
47t
O.IT
5
1
0.7
27t
2
5
5
15
0.
20
IT
2T
10t
2
5
1
,000t
6
O.lt
2
1
2,500
9,200t
-- 2,200,000
100 ll.OOOt
HOt 470,000t
391 310,000
6.It 48,000t
2,000t
28 820
3,600
120,000
150,000t
52,000t
11,000
2,000t
1,200
1.0
It
2
4
6
27
5.9T
7
2,400
2,300
62
130t
66
13t
2.81
4.3
1.3
It
3
lit
71
430t
O.lt
10
520
11
2.9
7.2t
11
1.7T
44t
l.l1
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or NYS standard for maximum concentration in ground water,
61
-------
Table 18.—Analyses of ground-water samples from unconsolidated deposits
along the Niagara River-Robert Moses Parkway, Niagara Falls,
N.Y., January 13, 1983 (continued)
[Locations are shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in yg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but at less than the quantifiable
detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number
(RMP-2) (RMP-3) (RMP-4) (RMP-5) (RMP-6)
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
a-BHC 0.12t 49t ~ 0.68T 0.22t
3-BHC 0.68t 47t -- 0.64t 0.141
Lindane (y-BHC) ~ 7.9T — 0.28
Heptachlor — — ~ 0.67T
Trans-1,2-dichloro-
ethylene 1601 20,000 9,100 180
Ethylbenzene — — — LT LT
1,1,2-Trichloroethane — 270t
Tetrachloroethane — 3,100t
1,3-Dichlorobenzene — LT 20
1,2-Dichlorobenzene — LT 14
1,4-Dichlorobenzene — ~ 13 — —
Hexachloroethane — 280T
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene — 72 22
Hexachlorobutadiene — 15t —
Naphthalene LT
Dibutylphthalate 9.9 ~ 23 13 7.3
Butylbenzlphthalate — — — 29
Bis(2-ethylhexyl)
phthalate 22 — 17 — 7.1
Phenol -- — 14T
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethylphthalate 10 LT 10 — 8.3
Hexane1 170 — 3,100 22 220
Octachloropentene — — LT —
Dibenzoanthracene 10 —
Acetone(2-propanone)1 — 8,800
2,2,4-Trimethylpentane1 — 1,600
Methylcyclopentane1 — — — LT 22
3-Methylpentane1 — — — — 5.6
2-Methylthietane1 5.7 — 15
1,3-Dichlorobutane1 LT
l-(2-Butoxyethoxy)-
ethanol1 LT — ~ — 15
1,1'-Oxybis(4-chloro)-
butane1 36
1,2,3,4,7,7-Hexachloro-
bicyclo-(2.2.1)hepta-
2,5-diene1 LT
62
-------
Table 18.—Analyses of ground-water samples from unconsolidated deposits
along the Niagara River-Robert Moses Parkway, Niagara Falls,
N.Y., January 13, 1983 (continued)
[Locations are shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in Pg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but at less than the quantifiable
detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number
(RMP-2) (RMP-3) (RMP-4) (RMP-5) (RMP-6)
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
Hexanedioic acid,
dioctylester1 LT
Pentachloroethane1 — 1,500
Pentachlorocyclopropane1 — 50 —
l,l,3,4-Tetrachloro-l,3
butadiene1 — 280
Hexanedinitrile1 — 77
1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene1 — 47
Ilexachlorobutene1 — 14
1,3,5-Trithiane1 — 31 26
1-Propoxybutane1 — 52 —
1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachloro-
(1 alpha,2 beta,3 alpha,
4 beta,5 alpha,6 beta)-
cyclohexane1 — 20 — —
1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachloro-
(1 alpha,2 alpha,3 beta,
4 alpha,5 alpha,6 beta)-
cyclohexane1 — 110 —
1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachloro-
(1 alpha,2 alpha,3 beta,
4 alpha,5 beta,6 beta)
cyclohexane1 — 35
1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachloro-
(1 alpha,2 alpha,3 alpha
4 beta,5alpha, 6beta)-
cyclohexane1 — 8.5 — —
2-Butoxyethylbutyl
phthalate1 — 31
Dimethylsulfide — — 31
l-(l-Isobutyl-3-methyl-l-
butenyl)pyrrolidine1 — — LT
0-Cresol1 — — LT
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene1 — — - LT
1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene1 — — - LT
Compounds potentially of natural origin
1,7,7-Trimethylbicyclo-
(2.2.l)-heptan-2-one
(camphor) * -- -- 12 —
63
-------
Table 19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y., December 1982-January 1983.
[Locations shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in yg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not
found, LT indicates it was found but at less than the
quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(NFB-1)
American
Falls
109 ft well
(48.0)
(NFB-2)
American
Falls
47 ft well
(45.0)
(NFB-3)
Robert Moses
Parkway
North #1
(73.7)
(NFB-4)
Robert Moses
Parkway
North #2
(72.2)
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Cyanide
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Zinc
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Chloroform
Toluene
a-BHC
Heptachlor
Endosulfan
Bis(2-ethylhexyl)
phthalate
Di-n-octylphthalate
Trichloroethylene
Tetrachloroethylene
It
12
3
0.3t
120
1
2
230
5t
10t
66t
580
3,600t
O.lt
460
1
2
8,700t
6T
26
24
6.8t
32
4
250
7t
6
190
630t
1.2T
10
2
5
1,200
1.7
LT
0.04t
15
13
6.2T
58
LT
3.7
LT
O.OZt
0.2t
0.03t
0.04
6.0
1.7
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or NYS standard for maximum concentrtion in ground water.
64
-------
Table 19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y., December 1982-January 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in ug/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not
found, LT indicates it was found but at less than the
quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number
(NFB-1)
American
Falls
109-ft well
(NFB-2) (NFB-3)
American Robert Moses
Falls Parkway
47-ft well North #1
(NFB-4)
Robert Moses
Parkway
North #2
Organic Compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants
l,l,2-Trichloro-l,2,2-
triflouroethane1
2-Methy1-1-pentene1
3-Methylpentane1
Hexane1
2,3-Dimethyl-2-pentene
Butane1
2-Butene1
2-Methylbutane1
2.1
—
—
—
J 1 _ —
—
—
"
Well
130
15
320
LT
--
—
"
number and
20
1.3
20
—
LT
LT
LT
depth below land
930
74
5,100
—
—
—
_— .
surface (ft)
(NFB-5) (NFB-6) (NFB-7) (NFB-8)
13th 14th Cudaback Niagara
Street Street Avenue Avenue
(22.0^ (21.0) (20.0) (20.0)
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Cyanide
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Zinc
—
2t
—
20t
13
110
—
570t
O.lt
130
2
2
1,900
—
3t
—
16t
6
49
60 1
400t
O.IT
90
1
1
310
5
2t
—
89t
—
800
—
3,500t
O.lt
760t
1
30,000t
1
14T
—
13T
16
53
—
300t
O.lt
130
1
1
1,400
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Toluene
Trichloroethylene
Tetrachloroethylene
5.4
LT
LT
LTt
7.8
33t
8.8t
1.6
LTt
65
-------
Table 19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y., December 1982-January 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not
found, LT indicates it was found but at less than the
quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number
(NFB-5) (NFB-6) (NFB-7) (NFB-8)
13th 14th Cudaback Niagara
Street Street Avenue Avenue
Organic Compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants
2-Methyl-l-pentene1 56 7.1 6.9
Methylcyclopentane^ — — — 8.0
3-Methylpentane1 6.0 LT
Ilexane1 160 47 20 24
Isooctane1 1.5
Trans-1,2-dichloro-
ethylene — — 80
Trichlorofluoro-
methane — — — 4.7
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-
triflouroethane* — — — 4.4
7-Oxabicyclo[4.1.0]-
heptane1 18
2,2-Dichlorobutyl-
propanoate 8.8 — — —
E-2-Hexen-l-ol1 — 16
l-Chloro-2-nitroso-
cyclohexane1 — 15
Methylcyclohexane^- — — 10 —
Trans-4-chlorocyclo-
hexane1 — — 11
Trans-2-chlorocyclo-
hexanol — — — 16
2-Bromo-l-phenylethanol1 — — — 2.8
N-(Aminocarbonyl)-
benzamide1 — — — 7.0
66
-------
Table 19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y., December 1982-January 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in Mg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not
found, LT indicates it was found but at less than the
quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number and depth below land surface (ft)
(NFB-9)(NFB-10)
61st Street 60th Street
(22.0) (21.0)
pH 7.5
Temperature (°C) 9
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony — —
Arsenic 4t 3t
Beryllium
Cadmium 30t 23t
Chromium 37 44
Copper 180 190
Cyanide 90t 360|
Lead 400t 630T
Mercury O.lt O.U
Nickel 190 200
Selenium 1 1
Silver 2 1
Zinc 670 720
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Toluene LT
Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate 9.4
Trichlorofluororaethane 15 LT
Nonpriority pollutants
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-
triflouroethane1 14 4.6
Hexane1 LT 16
Methylcyclopentane1 — 5,4
Trans-4-chlorocyclohexanol1 8.6
l.l'-Bicyclohexyl1 15
67
-------
Table 19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y. , December 1982-January 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in Mg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not
found, LT indicates it was found but at less than the
quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number and
depth below land
Power Authority of State of
(NFB-11) (NFB-12)
PASNY #1 PASNY #2
(37. 0} (37. OJ
PH
Specific conductance (^mho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic Constituents
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Cyanide
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Zinc
Molecular sulfur (S6)
Molecular sulfur (S8)
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
Toluene
Chlorobenzene
Ethylbenzene
Hexachlorobenzene
a-3HC
3-BHC
Lindane
Heptachlor
1 ,4-Dichlorobenzene
1 , 3-Dichlorobenzene
1 , 2-Dichlorobenzene
Nitrobenzene
1 , 2,4-Tr ichlorobenzene '
Naphthalene
7.4
1,290
10.4
1.0
4t
—
3
20
92
—
410t
0.9t
43
—
—
3,500
25
1,450
180T
34
15
5.6
0.47T
0.44T
0.26t
LT
Lit
10
18
15
8.5
11
31
8.4
450
7.9
—
4T
—
3
20
63
—
420T
O.lt
20
1
—
710
—
—
—
2.2
LT
1.4
0.09T
0.781
0.25t
LT
Lit
—
—
—
—
—
—
surface (ft)
New York
(NFB-13)
PASNY#3
(36. Oj)
8.3
1,750
8.4
1.5
3t
—
5
12
61
0.04
390T
0.2T
16
—
--
280
30
330
250t
5.7
35
1.4
—
1.4T
1.4T
0.13
—
65
30
33
—
27
LT
68
-------
Table 19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y. , December 1982-January 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in yg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not
found, LT indicates it was found but at less than the
quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number
Power Authority of State of New York
(NFB-11) (NFB-12) (NFB-13)
PASNY #1 PASNY #2 PASNY #3
Organic Compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Di-n-butylphthalate
Butylbenzylphthaiate
Bis(2-ethylhexl)phthalate
Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene
Trichloroethylene
Tetrachloroethylene
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethylphthalate
Hexane1
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane1
l-Chloro-2-methylbenzene1
4-Bromobutylbenzene1
l-Chloro-4-methylbenzene1
1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene1
l-Ethyl-2-methylbenzene1
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene1
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene1
l-Ethenyl-2-methylbenzene1
1,4-Diethylbenzene1
1-Methy1-2-propylbenzene1
Decylbenzene1
l-Methyl-3-(l-methylethyl)-
benzene1
1,2-Diethylbenzene1
l-Methyl-3-propylbenzene1
l-Ethyl-2,4-dimethylbenzene1
l-Methyl-2-(l-methylethyl)-
benzene1
2-Methyl-2-propenylbenzene1
l-Methyl-3-(l-methylethyl)
benzene1
2-Ethy1-1,4-dimethylbenzene1
l-methyl-4-(l-methylethyl)
benzene1
1,2,3,5-Tetrarnethylbenzene1
17
36
13
1,400
LTt
LT
64
17
71
90
14
150
31
11
84
8.
5.
7.2
9.6
5
,9
5.7
LT
18
29
22
LT
24
5.3
8.5
9.6
9.4
24
26T
8.8
12
12
18
61
10
1,400
1ST
3.4
LT
20
14
69
-------
Table 19.—Analyses of ground-water samples from bedrock wells in
Niagara Falls, N.Y. , December 1982-January 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in pi. 3. Concentrations are in pg/L,
dashes indicate that constituents or compound was not
found, LT indicates it was found but at less than the
quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Well number
Power Authority of State of New York
(NFB-11) (NFB-12) (NFB-13)
PASNY #1 PASNY #2 PASNY #3
Organic Compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
1,2,3,4-Tetrainethylbenzene1 24 —
l-Ethyl-2,4-dimethylbenzene1 28
2,3-Dihydro-l-methyl-l-H-
indene 6.3 — —
1,2,3,4-Tetrahydronaphthalene1 2.5
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene1 1.5 —
2-Methylnaphthalene1 3.7
l.l'-Biphenyl1 LT
1,1'Oxybisbenzene1 5.4 —
1,5-Dimethylnaphthalene1 LT
1,4-Dimethylnaphthalene1 LT
4-(l,1,3,3-Tetramethyl-
butylphenol1 5.7 —
Hexathiopane LT — —
Unknown hydrocarbons1 — 19 --
2,4-Dichloro-2-Methylbenzene1 — — LT
y-BHC — — LT
N-Methyl-lH-imidazole-
4-ethanamine1 — — 11
Table 20.—Heavy-metal concentrations in samples obtained from undisturbed
soils in Niagara Falls, N.Y., May 31, 1983 and June 1, 1983
[Locations are shown in pi. 3. Concentrations in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent was not found.]
Location
DeVeaux
Oakwood
Liberty
School
Cemetery
Park
Sample
number
SB-8
SB -9
SB-10
Cadmium
5,
5,
__
000
000
Chromium
7
10
10
,000
,000
,000
Copper
9,
20,
20,
000
000
000
Lead
20
30
50
,000
,000
,000
Mercury Nickel Zinc
DeVeaux School
Oakwood Cemetery
Liberty Park
SB-8
SB-9
SB-10
150
80
130
__
20,000
20,000
23,000
46,000
130,000
70
-------
RESULTS OF HYDROLOGIC AND CHEMICAL EVALUATION
Results of the field investigations and literature reviews for the 138
hazardous-waste-disposal sites (plus the 26 sites not recommended for investi-
gation by NYSDEC) are summarized in tables 21 and 22. Table 21 identifies
each site as having either a major or indeterminable potential for contaminant
migration on the basis of available chemical and hydrologic data; table 22
lists the sites designated as having a major potential for contaminant migra-
tion. These designations are based on the data available as of 1983 and are
preliminary only. More accurate predictions as to the rate and extent of
leachate migration would require additional hydrologic data to define the
ground-water flow patterns within the unconsolidated deposits and the frac-
tured bedrock below, and additional sampling to determine the type, amount,
and concentration of chemicals buried at each site.
Table 21.—Potential for contaminant migration from sites studied
Site
number
Registry
number
Type of
investi-
Site
Migration
potential
Indeter-
gation1 Major minate
Geo-
hydro-
logic
Type of data
Chera- Offsite
ical migration
BUFFALO AREA (pi. 1)
107
113
118
120-122
132
135
138
140
141
142
144
146
147
148
162
173
180
184
190
196
200
203
206
216
217
219
220
241
249
t253
T254
915004
915007
915009
915012
(a,b,c)
915024
915029
915034
915037
915040
915041
915073
915045
915046
915047
915054
915065
915011
915095
915781
915026
915085
915052
915072
915013
915017
915030
915039
915080
915120
—
—~
Allied Chemical F
Anaconda F
Bethlehem Steel L
Buffalo Color L
Fedder Automotive L
Hanna Furnace F
McNaughton Brooks F
Houdaille-Manzel F
Mobil Oil F
Mollenberg-Betz L
Otis Elevator F
Pratt & Letchworth L
Ramco Steel F
Republic Steel F
Alltift Landfill L
Empire Waste F
Hopkins Street L
Kelly Island L
Lehigh Valley Railroad F
Niagara Falls Port Authority F
Procknall & Katra L
Squaw Island p
Tifft Farm L
Erie Basin Marina L
Conner Hanna Coke F
Hartwell Street Landfill L
W. Seneca Transfer Station F
Times Beach F
Allied Chemical, Hurwitz-Ranne F
Small Boat Harbor F
Buffalo Harbor F
F field investigation
L literature review only
X information available
- no information available
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
XX
XX
XX
XX
T
not a source of ground-water contaminatio
but hydraulically connected to Lake Erie
* limited information
XX contaminant migration reported or observe
71
-------
Table 21.—Potential for contaminant migration from sites studied (continued)
Migration
potential
Type of data
Site
number
Registry
number
TONAWANDA AREA (pi
6
24-37
50
60
67
68
72
93
103
105
106
108
109
110
111
114
115
116
117
123
125-127
128
130
131
136
137
143
149
150-151
153-155-
(a,b)
158
160
167
182
201
204
207
208
211
243
252
NIAGARA
1
2
4
5
7
8
9
932044
932018
932066
932059
932043
932060
932054
915001
915003-b
915003-c
915055-a
915055-b
915055-c
915055
915061
915008-c
915008-a
915008-b
915016
915018
(a.b.c)
—
915023
915025
—
915035
—
915036
915048
915050
(a-d)
915057
915014
915063
915074
915083
915079
915078
915067
932068
915123
FALLS AREA
932001
932002
932004
932052
932048-a
932048-b
932007
Type of
investi- Indeter-
Site gation1 Major minate
. 2)
Buffalo Pumps Division
Occidental Chemical-Durez Div.
National Grinding Wheel
Roblin Steel Company
Frontier Chemical-Pendleton
Gratwick Park
Holiday Park
Nash Road
R. P. Adams
Allied Chemical, Tonawanda
Allied Chemical, Tonawanda
Tonawanda Coke
Tonawanda Coke
Tonawanda Coke
Aluminum Match Plate
Ashland Petroleum
Ashland Petroleum
Ashland Petroleum
Ashland Petroleum
Columbus McKinnon
Dunlop Tire
Dupont
Exolon
FMC
INS
Pennwalt-Lucidol Div.
0-Cel-O
Roblin Steel
Shanco Plastics
Spaulding Fibre
Union Carbide
J. H. Williams
Chemical Leaman
Huntley Power Station
Seaway Industrial Park
William Strassman
City of Tonawanda Landfill
Veteran's Park
Air Force Plant no. 40
Botanical Gardens
Creekside Golf Course
(pi. 3)
Airco Alloys
Airco Speer Carbon-Graphite
Basic Carbon Co.
Bell Aerospace
Carborundum, Bldg. 89
Carborundum, Bldg. 82
Carborundum-Abrasive Div.
F
L X
L
L
F
F X
F
F
F
X
F X
F
F
F
L
L
L
L
L X
F
F
L
F
F X
F
L
F
F
F/L
L
F
F
F X
L
F
F
L
L
F
F
L
F
F
F X
L
L
L
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Geo-
hydro-
logic
_
-
-
*
X
*
-
-
-
-
X
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
*
-
-
-
-
X
-
-
*
-
-
-
-
*
X
X
*
-
-
-
*
*
-
*
-
-
-
-
-
Chem-
ical
X
X
*
*
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
*
-
*
X
-
X
X
X
-
X
X
X
-
*
X
X
*
X
X
X
X
X
X
*
-
X
X
X
X
X
X
—
-
X
Offsite
migration
_
XX
-
-
-
-
*
-
-
XX
-
*
-
-
-
-
*
-
-
XX
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
*
-
-
-
-
*
-
-
XX
-
-
-
72
-------
Table 21.—Potential for contaminant migration from sites studied (continued)
Migration
potential
Site
number
Registry
number
TONA WANDA AREA (pi
6
24-37
10
11
14
15-19,
250
21
22
38
39
40
41a
41b-49
51
56
57
58,59,
248
62
63
64
66
73
76
77
78a,78b
79
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
94
95
96
100
237
238
242
245
247
251
255
932044
932018
932036
932009
932047
932013
(a-f)
932015
932016
932020
932021
932022
932019-a
932019b-c
932028
932031
932050
932051
(a.b)
932038
932034
932049
932035
932040
932067
932006
932025
932046,
932042
952091
932026
932079
932080
932008
932081
932082
932083
932085
932088
932027
932089
932090
932055
932056-a
932067
932093
932086
932087
932063
932084
932037
932053
Type of
invest i-
Site gation1 Major
. 2)
Buffalo Pumps Division
Occidental Chemical-Durez Div.
Carborundum-Globar Plant
Chisholm Ryder
Dupont, Necco Park
Dupont, Buffalo Avenue
Frontier Bronze
Great Lakes Carbon
Occidental-Love Canal
Occidental-Hyde Park
Occidental-102nd Street
Occidental-S-area
Occidental-Buffalo Ave, Plant
TAM Ceramics
Olin-102nd Street Landfill
Olin-Industrial Welding
Olin-Buffalo Avenue
Stauffer Chemical, N Love Canal
Stauffer-Art Park
Onion Carbide
Reichold-Varcum
La Salle Expressway
Lynch Park
Modern Disposal Service
CECOS & Niagara Recycling
Power Authority Road Site
Niagara County Refuse Disposal
Adams Generating Plant
Buffalo Avenue
Cayuga Island
Griffon Park
Hydraulic Canal
New Road
64th Street
Whirlpool Site
Witmer Road
Town of Niagara Landfill,
Lockport Road
Niagara Falls Transportation
Authority
Niagara River-Belden Site
Old Creek Bed-Dibacco
Robert Moses Parkway
Sibergeld Junk Yard
Rodeway Inn
St. Marys School
Charles Gibson Site
97th St. Methodist Church
Olin Well
Solvent Chemical
Stauffer-PASNY
F
L X
L
F
L X
L X
F
F
L X
L X
L X
L X
L X
L
L X
L
F X
L
F
F
L X
L
F
F
L
L
F
F
F X
F
F X
F
F
F
F
F
L
F
F
F
F/L
F
F
F
L X
F
L
L X
F
Indeter-
minate
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Type of data
Geo-
hydro-
logic
-
_
*
-
X
-
-
X
*
X
-
-
-
-
-
X
-
*
-
-
-
-
-
_
-
-
-
X
*
X
-
-
-
-
-
-
*
-
*
*
-
*
-
X
*
_
-
-
Chem-
ical
X
_
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
*
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
-
X
*
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
_
X
X
Offsite
migration
-
XX
_
-
XX
-
-
-
XX
XX
XX
XX
XX
-
XX
-
-
*
-
-
XX
-
*
-
_
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
_
_
_
-
-
*
_
-
_
_
_
-.
_
_
XX
-
73
-------
Table 22.—Sites that have a major potential for contaminant migration
Buffalo area.—19 sites were field checked and 6 evaluated through a litera-
ture review. Of these 25 sites, the 10 listed below were designated as having
a major potential for contaminant migration:
107 Allied Chemical 915004
118 Bethlehem Steel Company 915009
120-122 Buffalo Color Corp. 915012a-c
138 McNaughton-Brooks, Inc. 915034
141 Mobil Oil Corporation 915040
162 Alltift 915054
203 Squaw Island 915052
241 Times Beach 915080
Tonawanda area.—29 sites were field checked and 21 evaluated through a
literature review. Of these 50 sites, the 20 listed below were designated as
having a major potential for chemical migration:
24-37 Occidental Chemical-Durez 932018
68 Gratwick-Riverside Park 932060
105 Allied Chemical 915003-b
108 Tonawanda Coke 915055-a
123 Columbus McKinnon Corporation 915016
136 INS Equipment Corporation 915031
182 Huntley Power Station 915063
Niagara Falls area.—31 sites were field checked and 32 evaluated through a
literature review. Of these 63 sites, the 31 listed below were designated as
having a major potential for contaminant migration:
5
14
15-19,250
38
39
40
41
41a-49
56
58,59,248
66
81
83
85
242
251
Bell Aerospace
Dupont, Necco Park
Dupont, Buffalo Avenue
Occidental, Love Canal
Occidental, Hyde Park
Occidental, 102nd Street
Occidental, Buffalo Avenue S-Area
Occidental, Buffalo Avenue Plant
Olin, 102nd Street
01 in, Buffalo Avenue Plant
Reichold-Varcum
Niagara County Refuse Disposal
Buffalo Avenue
Griffon Park
Charles Gibson
Solvent Chemical
932052
932047
932013a-f
932020
932021
932022
932019a
932019b-i
932031
932051a,b
932038
932040
932026
932080
932081
932096
—
74
-------
GUIDELINES FOR FUTURE STUDIES
This study indicates that some hazardous-waste sites will require further
investigation to determine the potential for contaminant migration. At other
sites, however, either there is no evidence of hazardous materials, or the
hydrogeologic character of the site does not appear to allow for contaminant
migration, so the need for further investigation may not be required.
Hazardous wastes have been disposed of in five ways: (1) in permeable
deposits adjacent to the Niagara River or tributaries to the river, (2) in
relatively impermeable deposits more than 15 ft thick and overlying bedrock,
(3) in relatively impermeable deposits that are less than 15 ft and overlying
bedrock, (4) in relatively impermeable deposits originally thicker than 15 ft
and overlying bedrock but where thickness has been reduced by excavation to
less than 15 ft and overlying bedrock, and (5) in relatively impermeable depos-
its where manmade interferences have altered site characteristics and
increased the potential for flow of water from the site. Where contaminants
from sites have reached bedrock, their effects have become regional. Some
general guidelines for studying these five types of sites and the related
regional contamination problems are given below.
Site Studies
Sites in Permeable Deposits Adjacent to the River
Where wastes are buried in or on permeable fill or alluvial sand adjacent
to the Niagara River or its tributaries, contaminants can move laterally
toward the river. An example of a hydrologic investigation that addressed
this concern is that conducted by Dames and Moore (1981) at the Bethlehem
Steel site in the Buffalo area (see appendix A, site 118).
In an investigation of this type of site, the wastes produced and buried
would be identified, the stratigraphy of the site documented, the quantity of
ground water and the direction of flow delineated, and mean concentrations of
the contaminant plume determined. Several observation wells would be
installed in the unconsolidated deposits between the site and the river and on
the upgradient side of the site to determine ground-water gradients and extent
and depth of geologic units. Where possible, wells would penetrate to below
yearly low water-table levels. Single measurements of water levels would give
only instantaneous gradient; seasonal monitoring would indicate changes
throughout the year. Water-level recorders on wells would allow correlation
of ground-water fluctuations with storms and river stage. Pumping tests and
slug tests could be used to measure the conductivity of geologic units.
If contaminants could have infiltrated to bedrock, or if the ground-water
flow system in the bedrock differs from that in the unconsolidated deposits,
several wells would need to be installed in the bedrock to determine direction
of ground-water flow. Several wells would also be needed to delineate the
extent of the plume and the average concentration of selected constituents in
the plume. Sampling methods would depend on whether contaminant transport was
relatively uniform, varied seasonally, or was influenced primarily by
recharge, river fluctuations, or other influences. Initially, a wide range of
contaminants would be tested at each well. Routine analyses could then be
restricted to selected constituents, with a wider range analyzed periodically.
75
-------
Sites in Relatively Impermeable Deposits More Than 15 Feet Thick
Where wastes are buried in relatively impermeable deposits such as
lacustrine silt, clay, or till some distance from the Niagara River, tribu-
taries, or manmade disturbances, the major form of contaminant transport is
overland runoff or vertical movement to the underlying bedrock. An example of
a hydrogeologic investigation that addressed this concern was that conducted
at Occidental Chemical Durez by Recra Research Inc. (1980) in the Tonawanda
area (appendix B, sites 24-37).
In an investigation of this kind of site, wastes produced and buried would
be identified, runoff from the site measured or estimated, stratigraphy of the
site documented, vertical ground-water gradients and direction of flow delin-
eated, and mean concentrations of contaminants in ground water and in
overland runoff determined. One or more wells would be installed in bedrock
below the disposal area to test for contaminants.
Test drilling would be done close to the disposal area to determine the
thickness of geologic units. Nested peizometers would be placed on or close
to the disposal area to define vertical and horizontal hydraulic gradient,
and slug or pumping tests could be done to determine the permeability of the
sediments; these data could then be used to calculate rate and quantity of
ground-water discharge. Where materials are unsaturated or where wells do not
produce enough water for sampling, cores and associated core water could be
obtained by suction lysimeter or other means for chemical analysis. The rela-
tionship between concentrations in cores and those in core water, once
established at representative sites, could subsequently be used at other sites
where only soil cores are obtained for analysis.
Runoff and water quality would be monitored for those sites where overland
flow is significant. In addition to routine sampling, stage-activated flow
monitoring and water sampling may be required during and immediately after
intense storms. Substrate samples collected from dry channel bottoms may indi
cate presence of contaminants, but negative findings do not rule out the
possi-bility of contaminant transport.
Sites in Relatively Impermeable Deposits Less Than 15 Feet Thick
Where wastes are buried in lacustrine silt, clay, sand, or till less than 15
ft thick, weathering and desiccation cracks may create secondary avenues for
movement to underlying bedrock and significantly increase the potential for
lateral movement offsite. Examples of hydrogeologic investigations that
addressed this concern are those done in the Niagara Falls area at Necco Park
(site 14) by Weston (1979) and at Tarn Industries (site 51) by the
Cones toga-Rovers and Associates (1979 Hyde Park monitoring program).
Further investigation of this type of site would entail identification of
(1) wastes produced and buried, (2) runoff from the site (measured or
estimated), (3) stratigraphy of the site, (4) vertical ground-water gradients
and direction of flow, and (5) mean concentrations of contaminants in ground
water and in overland runoff. Observation wells would be installed in the
unconsolidated deposits both upgradient and downgradient of the site to deter-
mine horizontal movement of contaminants, and slug or pumping tests could
determine permeability. Several wells would be installed in the bedrock to
sample for contaminants.
76
-------
Sites with Identifiable Bedrock Contamination
Where contamination from a site has reached the underlying bedrock in
large, relatively permeable units such as Lockport Dolomite and Onondaga
Limestone, the potential for contaminant migration offsite and to underlying
bedrock units is increased significantly. A system of wells along lines
radiating from the site may be needed to determine the extent of the con-
taminant plume in a multilayered bedrock such as that at the Hyde Park
landfill in Niagara Falls (site 39, appendix C) by Occidental Chemical
Corporation (1983).
At sites near a ground-water divide or mound, concentric sets of nested
peizoraeters or wells with packers would be installed along vectors radiating
from the site to define the contaminant plume. If ground water moves
regionally in one direction, most observation wells would be installed
downgradient from the site. Each major water-bearing zone should be screened
or packed and sampled for contaminants. Water levels would be measured to
determine hydraulic gradients, and pumping tests would determine permeability
of the water-bearing units.
Sites With Manmade Interferences
Drainage ditches, french drains, unlined sewers, power lines, aqueducts,
trenches, or pumping wells significantly increase the potential for lateral
migration of contaminants in the unconsolidated deposits. Examples of studies
at such sites include that by Recra Research, Inc. and Wehran Engineering
Corporation (1979) at Seaway (site 201, Tonawanda, appendix B) and by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1982) at Occidental Chemical Love Canal
(site 38, Niagara Falls, appendix C).
In addition to installing wells and sampling water flowing horizontally,
conduits and fill around conduits would be sampled for contaminants, par-
ticularly during storms.
Modeling of Regional Ground-Water Flow
A regional ground-water model of flow patterns in both the unconsolidated
material and in the bedrock units would be needed to assess the regional
effects of contaminant migration. An example of a flow model of part of a
region is that developed by Bergeron (U.S. Geological Survey, written commun.,
1984) for the Hyde Park Landfill (site 39) in Niagara Falls.
Because ground water moves vertically, a three-dimensional model or cross-
sectional model would be required, and in some areas, multiple layers would be
needed to represent the bedrock units. The modeled area should be large
enough to include hydrologic boundaries (Niagara River, Lake Erie, forebay
canal, underground conduits, etc.). Water-level data from wells would be
needed for model calibration and verification, and, where data were inade-
quate, additional observation wells would need to be installed. Also, the
location, type, thickness, and permeability of the geologic units would need
to be determined. Maps of depth to top of bedrock, thickness of uncon-
solidated overburden, and maps of bedrock stratigraphy would be useful guides.
A model could provide information about (1) direction and rate of ground-
water flow, (2) effects of external hydrologic fluctuations such as changes of
77
-------
river stage and seasonal recharge on ground-water fluctuations and boundary
discharges, (3) effects of pumping on flow patterns, (4) rate of leakage to
deep aquifers, (5) effects of removing or adding discharge wells, and (6)
effects of proposed remedial measures. The model could also serve as a basis
for solute-transport models to evaluate the effects of contaminant migration
from individual sites.
SUMMARY
American and Canadian monitoring of the quality of the Niagara River has
indicated a need to assess contamination entering the river through the ground-
water system. The contamination probably emanates from point and nonpoint
sources in the adjacent area, which contains a high density of chemical-
manufacturing facilities and waste-disposal sites.
An Interagency Task Force on Hazardous Waste, composed of representatives of
the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State
Department of Health, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, identified 215
hazardous waste-disposal sites in Erie and Niagara Counties in a report issued
in March 1979. Of these sites, 164 are within 3 miles of the Niagara River in
Erie and Niagara Counties, N.Y. Of the 164 sites, 138 were studied as having a
potential for offsite contaminant migration.
The U.S. Geological Survey reviewed records and, during the summer of 1982,
obtained chemical analyses of ground-water and core samples from 79 sites. The
objectives of the investigation were to (1) determine which sites are a possible
source of contamination to the ground-water system, (2) classify the sites as to
potential for ground-water contaminant migration, and (3) determine, where
data were sufficient, the potential effects of site leachate on the quality of
ground water.
The study area, a 37-mile band 3 miles wide along the Niagara River from
Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, was divided into three areas—Buffalo, Tonawanda, and
Niagara Falls on the basis of site density. The study entailed three phases—
a general literature review, site reconnaissance and sampling, and a regional
drilling and sampling program to obtain background hydrogeologic data for
reference.
This report describes the methods of investigation, the field procedures,
and the quality-control system for chemical sampling and analysis. It also
categorizes the sites' potential for contaminant migration either as major or
indeterminable from the data available. Hydrogeologic and chemical data from
the individual sites are given in the appendices; the sources of data are
included. For the few sites having sufficient data, the probable effects of
leachate on the ground-water quality are discussed.
Records of past and current disposal practices and geohydrologic and chemi-
cal data on 85 of the 138 sites were provided by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (USEPA), New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation (NYSDEC), the U.S. Geological Survey, consultants to the site
owner, or the site operator for use in a preliminary evaluation of the sites'
potential for contaminant migration. Of these 85 site records, 59 were used as
complete evaluations for this study. The remaining 26 sites along with 53 other
sites were drilled and sampled as described below.
78
-------
Ground water, surface water, and(or) substrates were sampled on the 79 sites
mentioned above. All sampling was done according to a quality-assurance/
quality-control plan acceptable to the New York State Department of Environ-
mental Conservation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S.
Geological Survey.
The number of sites studied, test holes drilled, samples collected, and the
chemical constituents and compounds analyzed from each area are shown in table
23. (These summary values and individual site values are also given in table 1.)
Table 23. Sampling Summary
A.
Number of sites studied
, wells/
test holes sampled,
and samples obtained from chemical analysis
Area
Buffalo
Tonawanda
Niagara Falls
TOTAL
Sites
19
29
31
79
No. of
test holes
drilled
121
129
118
368
No.
of
existing
wells
10
14
7
31
B. Number of samples analyzed
Area
Buffalo
Tonawanda
Niagara Falls
TOTAL
Organic
GC/MS
extract-
ables
82
143
128
352
compounds
sampled
Samples
collected
Ground Surface
water water
18
35
16
59
for chemical
Inorganic
Volatile As
40 32
57 38
34 9
131 79
Cd Cr
60 90
54 67
15 19
129 176
Cu Fe
83 102
38 105
27 67
148 274
Pb
85
56
13
154
6
12
7
25
Substrate
109
129
112
350
constituents
constituents
Hg Ni
32 59
42 43
61 9
135 111
V
22
2
5
29
Zn CN
27 4
16 4
13 0
56 8
S
3
0
0
3
In addition to the test-hole-drilling program, an electromagnetic conduc-
tivity survey was done on 21 of the 79 sites to help delineate the extent of
the disposal areas.
Among the 79 sites that were drilled and sampled were three dredge-spoil-
containment sites along Lake Erie in the Buffalo area, which were studied to
evaluate the potential for leachate migration to the lake. They are the Times
Beach containment site (site 241), the Small Boat Harbor containment site
(site 253), and the Buffalo Harbor containment site (site 254).
79
-------
SOURCES OF DATA
American Falls International Board, 1974, Preservation and enhancement of the
American Falls at Niagara, Appendix C - Geology and rock mechanics: 71 p.
Anderson, E. G., 1982, Hydrogeology review, Hyde Park Landfill: Toronto,
Canada, Gartner Lee and Associates, 19 p.
Buehlor, E. J., and Tesmer, I. H., 1963, Geology of Erie County, New York:
Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences Bulletin, v. 21, no. 3, 118 p.
Calspon Corporation, 1977, Soils, geology, and hydrology of the NEWCO-Niagara
Recycling site, Niagara Falls, New York: Calspon, 96 p., 10 figs., 6 tables.
Camp, Dresser, and McKee Engineers, 1982, City of Niagara Falls—Reports on
Fall Street sewer tunnel, visual inspection and infiltration, air, and
sediment evaluation: Camp, Dresser, and McKee Engineers, 230 p.
Cartwright, R. H., and Ziarno, J. A., 1980, Chemical quality of water from
community systems in New York, November 1970 to May 1975: U.S. Geological
Survey Water-Resources Investigations 80-77, 444 p.
CM CHAIN, Division Columbus McKinnon Corporation, 1982, Closure plans for
inactive landfill site, Tonawanda, New York: CM Chain, 22 p., 6 tables, 3 figs.
Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1979, Progress report I, Hyde Park Landfill:
Waterloo, Ont., Canada, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 17 p.
1979, Progress report III, Hyde Park Landfill, Bloody Run, and
102nd Street Landfill: Waterloo, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 27 p.
1979, Progress report IV, Hyde Park Landfill and Bloody Run:
Waterloo, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 33 p.
1979, Progress report V, Hyde Park Landfill, Bloody Run and 102nd
Street Landfill: Waterloo, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 23 p.
1979, Progress report VI, Hyde Park Landfill, Bloody Run, 102nd Street
Landfill, Hooker, Niagara Falls, New York: Waterloo, Conestoga-Rovers
and Associates, 18 p., 1 append., 1 map.
1979, Site investigation and monitoring programme, 102nd Street
Landfill, Hooker, Niagara Falls, New York: Waterloo, Conestoga-Rovers and
Associates, 20 p., 2 maps.
1980, Progress report VIIIA, Hyde Park-Bloody Run: Waterloo,
Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 18 p.
1980, Progress report VIIIB, 102nd Street Landfill, Hooker, Niagara
Falls, New York: Waterloo, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 2 p., 2 tables,
1 append.
80
-------
SOURCES OF DATA (continued)
1981, Hydrogeologic investigation, acid neutralization facility,
Pine Avenue/Packard Road, Town of Niagara: Waterloo, Conestoga-Rovers and
Associates, 47 p., 25 fig., 1 table, 8 append.
1981, Hydrogeologic investigation, Landfill site, Carborundum:
Toronto City, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 25 p., 1 append.
1981, Monitoring well installation details, monitoring well water
elevations, Hooker Buffalo Avenue plant and Drinking Water Treatment
Plant: Toronto City, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 25 p.
1982, Overburden investigation, S-area, December 1981 to March 1982:
Waterloo, Ont., Conestoga-Rovers and Associates.
Dames and Moore, 1981, Summary report of monitoring well program, Lackawanna
Plant, Bethelem Steel Corporation: Dames and Moore, 23 p., 12 figs.
Dominion Soil Investigations, Inc., 1979, Report of Lewiston Escarpment Project,
analysis of subsoil conditions, Whittaker Subdivision, Lewiston, New York:
Dominion Soil Investigations, Inc., 18 p., 2 tables, 1 enc.
Dunn Geoscience Corporation, 1981, Town of Niagara SLF, Facility No. 32S08,
open dump inventory, ground-water quality evaluation, New York State Depart-
ment of Environmental Conservation, Resource Conservation Recovery Act:
Albany, N.Y., Dunn Geoscience Corp., 16 p., 4 append., 1 map.
"Environmental Monitoring at Love Canal," Volume I, II, 1982, and jua New York
State Department of Health, "Love Canal-A special report to the Governor
and Legislature," Albany.
Friedman, L. C., and Erdmann, D. E., 1981, Quality assurance practices for the
chemical and biological analyses of water and fluvial sediments: U.S.
Geological Survey Open-File Report 81-650, 323 p.
Goerlitz, D. G., and Brown, Eugene, 1972, Methods for analysis of organic
substances in water: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of Water-Resources
Investigations, Book 5, Chapter A3, 40 p.
Haynes, S. J. and Mostaghel, M. A., 1982, Present-day precipitation of lead
and zinc from groundwaters: Mineral Deposits, v. 17, p. 213-228.
Johnston, R. H., 1964, Ground water in the Niagara Falls area, New York:
New York State Water Resources Comm. Bull. GW-53, 93 p.
1982, Simulation of ground-water flow in the vicinity of Hyde Park
landfill, Niagara Falls, New York: U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File
Report 82-159, 18 p.
Krehbiel Associates, 1978, Industrial solid waste management facility for
Spaulding Fibre Co., Inc.: Krehbiel Associates, 17 p., 3 figs., 1 pi.
81
-------
SOURCES OF DATA (continued)
Kreidler, W. L. , 1963, Selected deep wells and areas of gas production in
western New York: New York State Museum and Science Bull. No. 390, 404 p.
La Sala, A. M., Jr., 1968, Ground-water resources of the Erie-Niagara Basin,
New York: State of New York Conservation Department, Water Resources
Commission, Basin Planning Report ENB-3, 114 p.
Leggette, Brashears and Graham, Inc., 1979, Shallow ground-water quality
investigation, Hooker Chemical and Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls, New
York Plant: Westport, Conn., Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc.,
Progress Report 1, 4 p., 13 figs., 1 append.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals
and Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn.,
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 2, 7 p., 8 figs.,
3 append.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals
and Plastic Corporation, Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn.,
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 3, 4 p., 3 figs.,
3 append.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals and
and Plastic Corporation, Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn.,
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 4,
4 p., 4 figs., 3 append.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals and
Plastic Corp., Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn., Leggette,
Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 6, 13 p.,
20 figs.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals and
Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn., Leggette,
Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 7, 12 p.
1980, Hooker Chemicals and Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls Plant, New
York: geologic logs, 162 p.
Leonard S. Wegman Co., Inc., 1978, Sanitary landfill report, Town of Niagara:
50 p., 4 appendices.
R. B. MacMullin Associates, and Auer, C., 1979, Engineering report for the elimi-
nation and replacement of the Varcum settling lagoon, Varcum Chemical
Division, Reichold Chemicals, Inc., Niagara Falls, New York: R. B.
MacMullin Associates, 8 p., 6 drawings, 2 addendums.
Maslia, M. L. , and Johnston, R. H. 1982, Simulation of ground-water flow in
the vicinity of Hyde Park Landfill, Niagara Falls, New York: U.S.
Geological Survey Open-File Report 82-159, 19 p.
82
-------
SOURCES OF DATA (continued)
Moriarity, L. R., 1979, Report on Love Canal Section, Lewiston, New York: U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Rochester Program Support Branch, 8 p.,
1 addendum.
Muller, E. H., 1977, Quaternary geology of New York, Niagara Sheet: New York
Museum and Science Service, Map and Chart Series, no. 28, 1 sheet.
Neruda, F. D. , 1980, Niagara Frontier inactive waste disposal sites, Hyde Park
Landfill, Bloody Run, 102nd Street Landfill, 'S* Area Landfill, site con-
ditions and proposed remedial action: Niagara Falls, N.Y., Hooker, 31 p.,
14 figs., 1 append.
Occidental Chemical Corporation, 1983, Hyde Park—Bloody run aquifer survey and
testing program, Niagara Falls, New York: Niagara Falls, N.Y., Occidental
Chemical Corporation, v. I-III.
Recra Research, Inc., 1978, Evaluation of ground-water quality in the Lockport
Dolomite bedrock beneath the NEWCO-Niagara Recycling site, Niagara Falls,
New York: 21 p., 7 attachments, 5 tables.
1980, Hydrogeologic investigation, Durez Division, Hooker
Chemicals and Plastics Corporation, Walck Road, North Tonawanda, Niagara
County, New York: City of Buffalo, 74 p., 10 figs., 11 append.
1982, Supplemental hydrogeological investigation, Buffalo, N.Y. :
Alltift Company, Inc., 17 p., 1 appendix, 3 tables, 1 fig., 3 prints.
Recra Research, Inc. and Sodarholm Engineering, 1980, Part 360 application for
permit to operate a solid waste management facility; Buffalo, N.Y.: Alltift
Company, Inc., 22 p., 1 appendix.
Recra Research, Inc. and Wehran Engineering Corporation, 1979, Hydrogeologic
investigation, Olin 102nd Streed Landfill, Niagara Falls, Niagara County,
New York: 98 p., 1 appendix, 13 figs.
1979, Hydrogeologic investigation, Seaway Industrial Park Sanitary
Landfill, Town of Tonawanda, New York: Buffalo, N.Y., 80 p., 1 append.
4 maps.
Skougstad, M. W., Fishman, M. J., Friedman, L. C., Erdmann, D. E., and Duncan,
S. S., eds., 1979, Methods for determination of inorganic substances in
water and fluvial sediments: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques of Water-
Resources Investigations, Book 5, Chapter Al, 626 p.
U.S. Department of Energy, 1981, Evaluation of liquid effluent discharges from
the Linde Air Products Company Ceramics Plant: U.S. Department of Energy,
Executive Summary, 10 p.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1980, Water quality criteria pursuant to
section 304(a)(l) of the Clean Water Act: Federal Register, v. 45, part
231, no. 231, Nov. 28, 1980, p. 79318-79379.
83
-------
SOURCES OF DATA (continued)
U.S. Environmeatal Protection Agency, 1980, Interim guidelines and specifica-
tions for preparing quality assurance project plans: Washington, B.C.,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Report QAMS-005/80, 26 p.
1982, Environmental monitoring at Love Canal: U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, EPA/600/4-82-030a-d, v. I-III, 2823 p.
1982, Standard operating procedure for the validation of GC/MS hazardous
waste data: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 11 p.
Wehran Engineering, 1981, Hydrogeologic-Geotechnical Investigations, Proposed
sanitary landfill facilities, NEWCO Waste Systems, Inc., Pine Avenue site,
Niagara Falls, New York: Wehran Engineering, 34 p., 7 figs., 5 pi., 1
table, 11 append.
1981, Supplemental hydrogeologic study of the Packard Road/Pine Avenue
site: Wehran Engineering, 14 p., 9 figs., 1 append.
Wehran Engineering and Recra Research, Inc., 1978, Hydrogeological investigation
of Alltift Landfill, Buffalo, N.Y.: Wehran Engineering, 50 p., 1 append.,
2 maps, 5 figs., 10 tables.
West Coast Technical Service, Inc., 1982, Final report to the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (Water and soil samples from the Niagara
River Gorge): Cerritos, Calif., West Coast Technical Service, Inc., 78 p.
Weston, R, F., Environmental Consultants-Designers, 1978, Hydrogeologic
investigation of the NEWCO-Niagara Recycling site, Niagara Falls, New
York: Weston, R. F., 34 p., 17 figs., 7 tables, 5 appendices.
1979, Hydrogeologic evaluation, Necco Park Landfill, E. I.
Dupont de Nemours and Co., Niagara Falls, New York: 14 p., 6 append.,
4 tables.
84
-------
APPENDICES
Page
A. Buffalo Area 91
B, Tonawanda Area . 175
C. Niagara Falls Area 289
85
-------
APPENDICES
The site descriptions herein give the location, site history, and the poten-
tial for contaminant migration as major or indeterminate; they also include
geologic, hydrologic, and chemical information in the form of driller's logs,
site sketches, and tables of chemical analyses. Results of the electromagnetic
conductivity surveys are also included.
The tables of chemical data on samples obtained by the U.S. Geological
Survey indicate which inorganic constituents or organic compounds exceeded USEPA
1980 criteria for maximum permissible concentrations in drinking water or the
New York State standards for maximum concentration in ground water. Because no
criteria or standards have been established for most constituents and compounds,
the absence of indicators does not mean that the quality is acceptable for use.
The USEPA criteria are given in table 24 with the State of New York criteria for
comparison.
All analyses were done by contract laboratories through USEPA or U.S.
Geological Survey except where otherwise indicated.
Table 24.—Maximum permissible concentrations of selected chemical con-
stituents and organic compounds in surface water and ground water.
[Concentrations are in Ug/L; dashes indicate no established
limit, ND means none should be detected using most current
methods of detection.]
PH
Foaming agents
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency Risk
criteria (1980) [ factor2
—
State of
Drinking-
water
standards
(1982)3
—
New York
Ground-
water
standards
(1978)1*
6.5-8.5
500
Inorganic constituents
Antimony 146 — — —
Arsenic ND 2.2 x 1Q-1* 50 25
Barium — — 1,000 1,000
Beryllium ND 3.7 x 10~3
Cadmium 10 — 10 10
Chloride — — 250,000 250,000
Chromium VI 50 — 50 50
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1980, Water quality criteria pursuant
to section 304 (a) (1) of the Clean Water Act: Federal Register, v. 45,
no. 231, November 28, 1980, p. 79318-79379.
Risk of obtaining one more case of cancer at the given concentration in a
population of 1 million.
3 New York State drinking-water regulations, 1982.
"* Ground-water classifications, quality standards, and effluent standards:
Title 6, official compilation of codes, rules and regulations, pt 703,
September 1978.
86
-------
Table 24.—Maximum permissible concentrations of selected chemical con-
stituents and organic compounds in surface water and ground
water (continued)
State of New
Drinking-
U.S. Environmental water
Protection Agency Risk standards
criteria (I960)1 factor2 (1982)3
Inorganic constituents
Copper
Cyanide
Fluoride
Iron
Lead
Manganese
Mercury
Nitrate
Selenium
Silver
Sulfate
Thallium
Zinc
Organic compounds
Acenaphthene
Acrolern
Acrylonitrile
Alachlor
Aldicarb
Aldrin
Atrazine
Azinphosraethyl
Benef in
Benzene
Benzidine
Benzo(a)pyrene
Bis-2-chloroe thy 1 ether
Bis-chloromethylether
BHC's
a-HCH
B-HCH
tech-HCH
Y-HCH
Bromacil
Butachlor
Captan
Carbaryl
(continued)
1,000 — 1,000
52
2,000-2,200
300
50 — 50
300
1.7 x 10-3 __ 2
10,000
260 — 10
50 — 50
250,000
13
5,000 — 5,000
20
320
ND 5.8 x 10-2
—
—
ND 7.4 x ID"5
—
—
—
ND 6.6
ND 1.2 x 10-1*
—
ND 3.0 x 10~2
ND
ND 9.2 x ID'3
ND 1.63 x ID"2
ND 1.23 x 10-2
ND 1.86 x 10-2
—
—
—
—
York
Ground-
water
standards
1,000
200
1,500
300
25
300
2
10,000
20
50
250,000
—
5,000
—
__
__
35
0.35
ND
7.5
4.4
35
ND
—
ND
1
__
ND
ND
ND
ND
4.4
3.5
17.5
28.7
Carbon chloroform exact 200 — — —
Carbon tetrachloride
Chloramben
Chlordane
Chloroform
DDT
Diazinon
ND .4
—
ND 4.6 x 10-4
—
ND 2.4 x 10~5
—
5
87.5
0.1
100
ND
0.7
87
-------
Table 24.—Maximum permissible concentrations of selected chemical con-
stituents and organic compounds in surface water and ground
water (continued)
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency
criteria (1980)1
Organic compounds (continued)
Dicamba
Dichlorobenzenes
Dichlorobenzidines
Dichloroethylene
Dieldrin
Diphenylhydrazine
Di thane
Endosulfan
Endrin
Ethylbenzene 1,
Ethylenethiourea
Ferbam
Fluoranthene
Folpet
Halomethanes
Heptachlor
Hexachlorobenzene
Hexachlorobutadiene
Hexach lor oe thane
Hexachlorophene
Hexachloropentadiene
Isophorone 5
Kepone
Lindane
Malathion
Maneb
Methoxychlor
Methyl methacrylate
Monochlorobenzene
Nitralin
Nitrobenzene 19
Nitrophenols
Dinitrophenol
2 ,4-Dinitro-o-cresol
Nitrosamines
n-nitrosodiethylamine
n-nitrosodimethylamine
n-nitrosodi-n-butylamine
n-nitrosodiphenylamine
n-nitrosopyrrolidine
Paradichlorobenzene
Paraquat
Parathion
Pentachlorobenzene
Pentachloronitrobenzene
—
400
ND
ND
ND
—
—
74
1
400
—
—
42
—
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
—
206
,200
—
2
—
—
100
—
488
—
,800
70
13.4
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
—
—
74
—
Risk
factor2
—
—
1.03 x 10-2
3.3 x ID"2
7.1 x 10~5
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
.19
.28
7.2 x 10-1*
.45
1.9
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
8.0 x 10~4
1.4 x 10~3
6.4 x 10-3
4.9
1.6 x lO-2
7.2 x 10-3
—
—
—
—
State of New York
Drinking- Ground-
water water
standards standards
(1982)3 (1978)1*
0.44
—
—
ND
ND
1.75
—
0.2 ND
— —
ND
4.18
— — — —
56
— —
ND
0.35
— — —
7
— —
— —
ND
4
7.0
1.75
100 35
700
— — — _
35
—
— —
— —
—
— —
—
—
—
4.7
2.98
1.5
— —
ND
88
-------
Table 24.---Maximum permissible concentrations of selected chemical con-
stituents and organic compounds in surface water and ground
water (continued)
U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency Risk
criteria (I960)1 factor2
Organic compounds (continued)
Pentachlorophenol 1
Phenols 3
Phorate
Phthalate esters
Diethyl phthalate 350
Dimethyl phthalate 313
Di-n-butyl phthalate 34
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) 15
phthalate
Polychlorinated biphenyls
Polynuclear aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAH)
Propachlor
Propanil
Propazine
Simazine
Styrene
Tetrachloroethylene
Thiram
Trif luralin
Toxaphene
Toluene 14
Total trihalomethanes
Trichloroethylene
Vinyl chloride
Zineb
Ziram
1 , 1-Dichloroethylene
1,1,1, 2-Tetrachloroe thane
1,1, 2-Trichlorethane
1 , 2-Dichloroethane
1 ,2-Diphenylhydrazine
1 ,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzen
2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxy
acetic acid
2,3,7, 8-Tetrachloro-
dibenzo-p-dioxin
2,4-D
2,4-Dichlorophenol 3
2,4-Dinitrotoluene
2,4,5-T
2,4,5-TP (Silvex)
2,4,5-Trichlorophenol 2
2 ,4,6-Trichlorophenol
,010
, 500
—
,000
,000
,000
,000
ND 7.9 x 10~5
ND 2.8 x 10~3
— —
— —
— —
—
—
ND .8
—
—
— —
, 300
—
ND 2.7
ND 2.0
— —
— —
ND 3.3 x lO-2
ND .17
ND .6
ND .94
ND 4.2 x 10~3
38
— —
ND 1.3 x 10-8
—
,090
ND .11
—
—
,600
ND 1.2
State of New York
Drinking- Ground-
water water
standards standards
(1982)3 (1978)"
21
1
ND
— -" •"•—
__ — —
770
4,200
.1
— — —
35
7
16
75.25
931
— — — —
1.75
35
5 ND
— —
100
— — r
5
1.75
4.18
—
— —
10
—
—
— — —
— —
.44
—
3.5 x 10~5
100 4.4
— — —
— —
35
10 0.26
— —
— — —
89
-------
90
-------
APPENDIX A
BUFFALO AREA SITE DESCRIPTIONS
A total of 33 disposal sites in the Buffalo area were investigated to deter-
mine the potential of contaminant migration. Nineteen were investigated and
sampled by the U.S. Geological Survey during its 19R2 test-drilling and sampling
program; the remaining 14 were evaluated through a literature review.
Of the 33 sites investigated, 10 were designated as having a major potential
for contaminant migration; the remaining 23 were designated as having an inde-
terminable potential.
The following section describes the location, past and current disposal
practices, and potential for contaminant migration at the 33 sites; it also
includes the geologic, hydrologic, and chemical data. Site locations are shown
on plate 1.
91
-------
107. ALLIED CHEMICAL (ITSGS reconnaissance)
NYSBFC 915004
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Allied Chemical
site is in the southern part of the city of Buffalo. The site had a sludge
lagoon during 1930-70, in which an unknown quantity of spent vanadium pen-
toxide catalyst, sulfate sludges, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, salts, slag, and
polymerized "sulphan" were deposited. Since then, the lagoon has been exca-
vated and filled with clean fill.
The proximity of the site to the Niagara Fiver creates a potential for
seepage of contaminants to the river. The low pH of the ground water would
tend to increase the mobility of heavy metals, thereby causing the site to have
a major potential for contaminant migration.
Geologic information.—No geologic data were obtained. The site owners
drilled three monitoring wells between the disposal site and the Buffalo
River, but no drilling logs are available.
Hydrologic information.—Water levels in the three monitoring wells indicate
ground water to be 14 to 15 ft below land surface. The water-table altitude
is approximately that of the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected samples from the
three monitoring wells in July 1982 for chromium, copper, iron, lead, nickel,
vanadium, and sulfide analysis. Results are shown in table A-l. Iron and lead
concentrations exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking water and New York State
ground-water standards.
Table A-l.—Analyses of ground—water samples from Allied Chemical, site 107,
Buffalo, N.Y., July 19, 1982.
[Concentrations are in Mg/L; dashes indicate that
constituent was not detected.!
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2 3
(15.0) (14.9) (14.0)
pH
Specific conductance
Temperature (°C)
(u mho /cm)
3
2,580
11
.6t
.0
3
6,700
11
.9T
.0
3
2,040
11
.2
.0
t
Inorganic constituents
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Nickel
Sulfide
Vanadium
—
41
170,000t
370t
19
—
9.0
—
190
900.000T
90T
900
—
—
—
23
170,000t
6lt
200
—
30
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
92
-------
113. ANACONDA COMPANY (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915007
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Anaconda Company,
in the northern part of the city of Buffalo, received 21,600 tons of coal ash,
27,000 tons of metal slag, and unknown amounts of refractories during 1930-70.
The clay unit underlying the site probahly retards vertical migration of
contaminants, but the rate of dispersion could not be determined. The borehole
data indicated disturbed fill material; thus, contaminant migration could not be
evaluated. Organic priority pollutants were found in two samples. The poten-
tial for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings on
the site; locations are shown in figure A-l. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 3.5
3.5 - 4.5
4.5 - 10.0
0
1.5 -
3.0 -
4.0 -
5.0 -
6.0 -
1.5
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
11.5
Description
Topsoil and debris.
Clay, sand, dark green, wet.
Clay, reddish, "balls."
SAMPLE: 4.0 ft.
Topsoil brown, fill.
Fill, fine-grained, clay, gray.
Clay, blue-gray, wet.
Clay, blue-gray.
Clay, brown.
Clay, brownish-red.
SAMPLE: 4.0 ft.
0
0.5 -
2.0 -
5.0 -
6.0 -
6.5 -
7.0 -
8.0 -
0.5
2.0
5.0
6.0
6.5
7.0
8.0
10.0
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 5.0
5.0 - 6.0
6.0 - 6.5
Topsoil.
Clay, red, cap?
Fill, dark soil, gravel.
Sand, gray, hard, some gravel.
Blue, green material, wet.
Same.
Clay, green.
Clay, red.
SAMPLE: 6.0 ft.
Topsoil.
Clay, sandy, brown.
Black, organic-looking material,
Clay, gray-green.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic data were collected. Wet material was
encounted in boreholes 1, 2, and 3, which may indicate a perched seasonal water
table above the clay unit. The altitude of the perched water table at the time
of sampling was 595 ft above NGVD.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample at
each borehole for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, mercury,
93
-------
nickel, zinc, and organic-compound analysis. Results are given in A-2.
Chromium, copper, and zinc exceeded the concentrations in soil samples from
undisturbed areas. Samples 2 and 4 contained 13 organic priority pollutants,
some in high concentrations. Four nonpriority pollutants and some unknown
hydrocarbons were also detected.
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey ran an electromagnetic sur-
vey in November 1982. Two traverses were made; results are plotted in figure A-2.
Several interpretations could be made from the data, as follows.
Line 1.—Except for the section between 200 and 300 ft from the origin, all
of line 1 indicates subsurface waste disposal. The composition of the artifi-
cial fill (or its depth of burial), however, varies along the line. One
interpretation of line 1 would be that it crosses six distinct zones of artifi-
cial fill. The first zone may be larger than the second and much broader than
zones 3, 4, and 5. The horizontal extent of zone 6 cannot be determined. An
alternative interpretation is that the line crosses three zones of fill and two
buried metal conductors 400 and 440 ft from the origin. Other interpretations
may also be possible.
Line 2.—This line also shows evidence of disturbed subsurface conditions
throughout its length. Buried metallic debris is indicated at at least two
locations—120 and 380 ft from the origin.
78° 53'30"
42°
57'
20"
EXPLANATION
• 3
Test boring and
substrate sample
^ Line 1
Electromagnetic survey
traverse
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-l.
Loea.ti.on of sampling holes and electromagnetic survey
lines at Anaconda Company, site 113, Buffalo,
94
-------
Table A-2. — Analyses of substrate samples from Anaconda Company, site 113,
Buffalo, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. A-l. Concentrations are in ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not detected,
LT indicates it was detected but below the quantifiable detection
limit. ]
First sampling (07-28-82)
number an(j depth below land surface (ft)
12 34
(4.0) (4.0) (6.0) _ (5.5)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Zinc
Second sampling (05-29-83)
2,000
8,000
60,000tt
8,600,000
70,000
10,000
170,000tt
1,000
10,000
22,000
8,300,000
60,000
10,000
250,000tt
Sample number and depth
2,000
5,000
15,000
2,300,000
30,000
10,000
34,000
below land
1,000
240, 000 tt
2,000
12,000,000
50,000
20,000
2,300,OOOtT
surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A 4A
(4.0) (4.0) (6.0) (5.5)
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur1
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
3,4-benzofluoranthene
Chrysene
Acenaphthylene
3,000
4,600
LT
2,000
1,800
2,600
1,700
LT
10,000
4,000
2,600
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Buffalo area. Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
95
-------
Table A-2.—Analyses of substrate samples from Anaconda Company, site 113,
Buffalo, N.Y. (continued)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A 4A
Second sampling (05-29-83) (4.0) (4.0) (6.0) (5.5)
Organic compounds (continued)
Anthracene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
PCB-1260
1 ,2-Dichlorobenzene
LT
LT
3,900
4,100
LT
LT
•5,200
3,400
LT
LT
Nonpriority pollutants
Dibenzofuran —
oi-Terpene1
2-Methylnaphthalene
Hydrocarbons1 —
LT
2,000
LT
6,000
100 200 300 400
DISTANCE, IN FEET
500
600
700
Figure A-2. Results of electromagnetic conductivity survey at
Anaconda Company, site 113, Buffalo.
96
-------
118. BFTHLEHEM STEEL (Literature review) NYSDEC Q15009
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Bethlehem Steel
site,in Lackawanna (pi.1),containsapproximately 2,200 acres, 750 of which
consist of fill adjacent to Lake Erie. The fill is mainly slag, cinders, sand,
and gravel. Within this fill are wastes consisting of pickling liquor, coke-
oven tar, industrial-treatment sludge, and asbestos. The location is shown in
figure A-3.
A chemical-dispersion analysis was made in 1981 by the consulting firm
Dames and Moore to evaluate the dilution of maximum cumulative concentration of
constituents into Lake Erie. Their conclusions were as follows:
1. Analyses of lake-shore currents indicate that lake water adjacent to the
landfill flows northward at approximately 1,000 ft3/s. The discharge of
ground water from the landfill is approximately 1 ft3/s.
2. Dispersion analysis indicates that the maximum cumulative concentration of
constituents at the north end of the slag waste fill area is of the same
order of magnitude as the weighted average constituent discharge from the
fill.
3. Dispersion analysis and results of the lake-sample analyses indicate that
the 1 ft /s discharge of ground water from the fill area to the lake will
have no significant chemical effect, provided that all other factors
remain constant.
The resulting chemical concentrations in the lake are low; however, lead,
phenol, chloride, sulfate, cyanide, and pH exceed New York State ground-water
standards. Migration of contaminants to Lake Erie is indicated; therefore, this
site has a major potential for contaminant migration to Lake Erie.
Geologic data.—Dames and Moore used several test borings to define the subsur-
face geology at the site. In their report (1981), they incorporated previous
test-boring data with additional information obtained during the installation of
monitoring wells to produce several cross-sectional diagrams of the site.
In general, the geologic sequence at the site consists of a shale or dolo-
mitic bedrock overlain by till and (or) lake deposits of sand and silt. These
units are overlain by peat, sand, gravel, and (or) fill. The fill consists of
slag, cinders, sand, gravel, etc.
Hydrologic data.—Dames and Moore installed 11 monitoring wells at the site and
measured the water levels at each during July through December 1980 (table A-3).
In their report (Dames and Moore, 1981) they estimated the ground-water gradient
to be 1.7 x 10~3 ft in the overburden and much lower in the upper bedrock.
Dames and Moore also ran a short-term pumping test on monitoring wells MW-1A
through MW-5A (fig. A-3) to determine hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity
of the overburden, and also ran short-term pumping tests on monitoring wells
MW-6B through MW-8B to determine hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity of
the upper bedrock. Results of these tests are given in table A-4.
97
-------
Dames and Moore (1981) used the above data and Darcy's equation to calcu-
late an approximate seepage velocity of ground water into Lake Erie. An average
hydraulic conductivity of 155.8 ft/d yielded a seepage velocity of 0.88 ft/d.
However, if the high hydraulic conductivity at well MW-3A is eliminated, the
computed seepage velocity is 0.61 ft/d. They also calculated the total ground-
water flow entering Lake Erie from the slag fill area to be 1 ft3/s or approxi-
mately 650,000 gal/d.
Chemical data.—Dames and Moore collected several water samples from each of the
11 monitoring wells from July through December 1980. The mean concentrations of
each constituent are summarized in table A-5.
Source of data.—Dames and Moore, 1981, Summary report of monitoring well
program, Lackawanna Plant, Bethlehem Steel Corporation: 23 p., 12 figs.
EXPLANATION
Monitoring well installed by
Dames and Moore consulting
firm. All wells are shallow
except those with number
fol lowed by B
Bethlehem Steel Plant
Base from Dames and Moore (1981)
Figure A-3. Location of monitoring wells at Bethlehem Steel,
site 118, Laekawanna.
98
-------
Table A-3.—Water-level measurements in monitoring wells at Bethlehem Steel, site 118,
Lackawanna, N.Y., July through December 1980.
[Water-level data from Dames and Moore (1981). All values are in feet
above NGVD.1 Well locations are shown in fig. A-3.1
Dates of
sampling
1980 MW-1A MW-2A MW-3A MW-4A MW-5A MW-6A MW-6B MW-7A MW-7B MW-8A MW-8B
07/09-11 575.8 574.1 574.9 574.3 582.4 577.5 577.3 578.9 572.9 583.4 574.6
07/23-24 575.0 573.9 574.7 574.3 574.5 577.5 571.3 579.0 572.4 583.3 574.6
08/06-07 575.8 574.5 575.0 574.3 574.5 577.6 571.3 579.1 572.9 583.4 574.6
08/20-21 575.8 574.1 574.8 574.3 574.3 577.3 577.5 578.8 572.8 582.8 574.6
09/03-04 575.8 574.1 574.8 574.3 574.8 577.8 577.3 579.1 572.5 583.4 574.6
09/19 576.3 574.0 574.6 575.9 574.5 587.9 577.P 579.1 572.9 583.3 574.7
10/01 575.9 574.0 574.5 573.8 574.6 577.6 577.6 578.9 572.5 583.1 574.5
10/15 575.5 573.4 574.2 572.5 573.9 577.5 577.3 578.9 572.4 582.9 574.8
1 Mean-surface altitude of Lake Erie 573.5 ft above NOVD
Table A-4.—Pumping-test analyses of selected wells at
Bethlehem Steel, site 118, in Lackawanna, N.Y.
[Data and analyses by Dames and Moore (1981),
Well locations are shown in fig. A-3. Dashes
indicate that value was not determined.]
Hydraulic
conductivity (K)
Well number1 (ft/d)
MW-1A
MW-2A
MW-3A
MW-4A
MW-5A
Average
Average minus
well 3A value
MW-6B
MW-7B
MW-8B
84
74
344
101
176
155.8
108.8
0.08
187.9
18.38
Transmissivity ,
x 103
(ft2/d)
2.52
2.59
12.04
2.52
4.40
4.81
3.00
—
—
—
1 A suffix = unconsolidated strata;
B suffix = upper part of bedrock.
-------
Table A-5.—Analyses of ground-water samples from the Bethlehem Steel,
site 118, Lackawanna, N.Y., July through December 1980.
[Data from Dames and Moore (1981). Locations are shown in
fig. A-3. Concentrations are in yg/L.]
Well number
Constituent
Iron, dissolved
Zinc, dissolved
Lead, dissolved
Chromium, dissolved
Ammonia (as nitrogen)
Sulfide
Phenol
Chloride
Sulfate
Total dissolved solids
Cyanide, total
Oil and grease
PH
Total organic carbon
Total suspended solids
1
MW-1A
70
20
60
10
3,800
39,200
60
11,700
842,000
1,905,000
440
2,000
11.53
4,540
108,000
MW-6A
Iron, dissolved
Zinc, dissolved
Lead, dissolved
Chromium, dissolved
Ammonia (as nitrogen)
Sulfide
Phenol
Chloride
Sulfate
Total dissolved solids
Cyanide, total
Oil and grease
PH
Total organic carbon
Total suspended solids
2
51
161
493
1
25
885
150
50
70
10
,100
300
40
,000
,000
,000
160
,230
7.44
,900
,000
MW-2B
11,
160,
1,
444,
377,
2,239,
1,
11
48,
58,
60
20
60
10
QOO
700
500
600
000
000
300
900
.31
240
000
MW-3A
22
34
1
1,184
163
3,551
2
1
50
125
Well
MW-6B MW-7A
460
40
60
10
2,400
200
18
87,000
67,000
765,000
50
3,150
7.22
22,540
324,000
74
223
605
1
15
649
130
30
100
10
700
300
24
,000
,000
,000
160
,290
7.53
,530
,000
110
40
130
10
,200
,300
,100
,000
,000
,000
420
,900
1.10
,220
,000
2,
5,
MW-4A
5
5
512
151
865
1
1
6
23
110
40
210
20
,500
,700
210
,000
,000
,000 1
220
,100
1.90
,870
,000
HW-5A
5
3
167
120
,728
1
110
30
100
10
,100
,500
300
,000
,000
,000
190
,030
12.48
10
14
,230
,000
number
MW-7B
2,
1,
137,
245,
980,
2,
7
10,
256,
580
30
70
10
400
500
28
000
000
000
130
670
.23
840
000
MW-8A
220
30
70
10
1,200
900
47
150,000
337,000
898,000
230
1,510
8.18
15,080
1,225,000
MW-8B
1
107
72
470
2
7
119
120
30
70
10
,700
200
10
,000
,000
,000
40
,160
7.87
,130
,000
100
-------
120-122. BUFFALO COLOR CORPORATION (Literature review) NYSDEC 915012-a,b,c.
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Buffalo Color
Corporation sites, in the southern part of the city of Buffalo (pi. 1), consist
of the following:
(120) two lagoons for iron oxide sludge that were used from 1930-63,
(121) a weathering area that may contain traces or organic compounds in dye
sludge, and
(122) a 774-ft well used to dispose of 3.5 Mgal of 40-percent ammonium
sulfate from 1957-63.
The limited hydrologic data suggest that the movement of ground water is
relatively slow; however, the proximity of the disposal sites to the Niagara
River, and concentrations of hazardous organic compounds and heavy metals
greater than 10 times the levels in the samples from undisturbed areas, indicate
that these sites have a major potential for contamination to the Buffalo River.
Geologic information.—The site owners installed nine piezometers on the pro-
perty in 1982; the locations are shown in figure A-4. Only the drilling log of
piezometer 6, shown below, was available.
Depth (ft) Description
0-2 Mixture of purple and black cinders, slag, and foundry sand.
2-4 Fill, mostly clay with cinders, slag and foundry sand.
Clay varied in color with red and brown.
4-6 Fill, mostly brown clay, with some pockets of slag and
cinders. Cinders and foundry sand in lower 6 inches.
6-8 Fill, brown clay with black, clayey layer 6 inches at
bottom. Slight odor.
8-10 Mixed brown clay, slag, cinders.
10-12 Wet black cinders, foundry sand and slag. Slight odor.
12-14 Wet black cinders, slag, foundry sand.
14-16 Brown sandy silt with thin clay laminations. Mottling
of sample from brown to gray brown. Slight odor.
16-18 Gray-brown sandy silt with some organic (woody) material
interbedded. Slight odor.
18-20 Dark brown sandy silt with organic (woody) plug at base.
Slight odor.
101
-------
Hydrologic information.—Daily water-level measurements were taken at eight of
the nine piezometers during June 1-24, 1982. The average water level in each
piezometer during this period is listed below; the water-table contours from
these levels are shown in figure A-4.
Piezometer
number
1
2
3
4
5
6
Average daily
water level
(ft above NGVD)
573.5
573.5
573.6
573.7
573.5
575.3
Piezometer
number
7
8
9
10
11
Average daily
water level
(ft above NGVD)
574.0
- -
573.8
1 573.2
1573.1
Buffalo River stage
The hydraulic conductivity (K) of the overburden at the site has been calcu-
lated to be approximately 0.01 m/d (0.0328 ft/d) (Holzmacher, McLendon and
Murrel, written commun. to NYSDEC, 1982). This value, combined with the gra-
dient data from figure A-4, yields a rate of ground-water movement of 0.024
ft/yr in the weathering area and of 0.06 ft/yr in the sludge-pond areas. These
values are only approximations; additional data would be needed to verify them.
Chemical information.—No ground-water chemical data are available. However,
two composite soil samples collected in December 1982 by the site owner indi-
cated the following constituents and compounds in the weathered area at the
levels shown below. (NYSDEC, written commun., 1983):
Priority pollutants
Arsenic
Chromium, total
Copper
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Zinc
Benzidine
Acenaphthene
Naphthalene
Fluorene
Anthracene, Phenanthrene
Fluoranthene
Pyrene
Chrysene, Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(b)f luoranthene , benzo
f luoranthene , benzo(a)pyrene
Dinitro toluene
Concentration
maximum
1,870
1,050
6,200
57,600
138
103
2,130
1.0
1.0
2.0
1.9
9.6
10
6.7
4.6
7.9
1,000
(yg/kg)
mean
989
904
5,905
41 ,900
89
82
1,462
1.0
1.0
1.5
1.5
5.2
6
3.8
2.8
4.8
500
Nonpriority pollutants
Chromium, hexavalent
1-Naphthylamine
3.2
0.2
1.9
0.2
102
-------
78° 50'50"
42°
51'
100
BUFFALO
RIVER
EXPLANATION
• 3 Piezometer
o11 River-water-level monitoring point
573.5— Water-table contour in 1982.
Conyour interval 0.5feet.
Datum is NGVD of 1929
200
400 FEET
Base from Holzmacher, McLendon, and
Murrell (written communication to NYSDEC)
Figure A-4. Water-table altitude and location of sampling holes at
Buffalo Color Corporation, sites 120-122, Buffalo.
103
-------
132. FEDDERS AUTOMOTIVE COMPONENT COMPANY (Literature review) NYSDEC 915024
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Fedders Automotive
Component Company is at the intersection of Tonawanda Street and Scajaquada
Creek Expressway in the city of Buffalo (pi. 1). Waste oil was spread on the
ground as a dust suppressant at a rate of about 165 gal/yr. The waste oils
are reported to have been light lubricating oils or hydraulic fluids, not
transformer oils. No monitoring has been undertaken.
The site consists of glacial lacustrine clay underlain by Onondaga
Limestone at a depth of 40 to 60 ft.
No hydrologic or chemical information are available. Thus, the potential
for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
135. HANNA FURNACE CORPORATION (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915029
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Hanna Furnace
Corporation site, in the southern part of the city of Buffalo, is used for the
disposal of brick, slag, scrap metal, concrete, earth, rubble, and "flue dust"
consisting of iron, iron oxide, alumina, silica, carbon, and magnesium.
The potential for vertical migration of contaminants is probably limited
because the site is underlain by a thick clay unit. The potential for lateral
dispersion of contaminants could not be evaluated, but the chemical data indi-
cate some potential for horizontal migration of contaminants away from the
site. The actual potential is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying units of sand and
clay that are underlain by limestone bedrock, which begins approximately 25 ft
below land surface. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled seven test borings in
August 1982. The locations are shown in figure A-5; the geologic logs are as
shown on page 105.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered at a depth of approxi-
mately 5 ft. Land-surface altitude is estimated to be 580 ft above NGVD; thus
the water-table altitude was 575 ft above NGVD.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample from
each test boring for chromium, copper, iron, and lead analyses; results are
given in table A-6. The results indicate that the sample from borehole 1 may
have been collected on the disposal site and therefore is not indicative of
contaminant migration. No other samples except sample 2, which had an ele-
vated copper concentration, exceeded the concentrations in samples from
undisturbed areas.
104
-------
Boring no. Depth Description
1 0 - 2.5 Topsoil and fill.
2.5 - 4.0 Fill material, black, organic smell.
4.0 - 15.0 Clay, light green, tight, dry.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
2 0-1.0 Topsoil and fill.
1.0 - 2.0 Rust-colored debris and gravel.
2.0 - 3.5 Gravel roadbed fill with coarse sand.
3.5 - 5.5 Sand, coarse, dark, wet.
5.5 - 6.5 Clay, greenish.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
3 0-2 Topsoil and "coal dust", dark brown to
black.
2 - 12 Sand, black, coarse, wet 5 ft.
12 - 15 Clay, olive, tight, dry.
SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
4 0-1.0 Topsoil, red.
1.0 - 3.5 Sand, light gray, coarse.
3.5 - 4.0 Pea rock, light green-blue.
4.0 - 6.0 Sand, reddish, coarse, with clay, wet.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
5 0-3.0 Topsoil, dark brown to dark red.
3 - 4.0 Sand, reddish, coarse.
4.0 - 4.5 Sand, light-colored, coarse, damp.
4.5 - 6.0 Sand, reddish, coarse, "iron ore", damp,
SAMPLF: 6 ft.
6 0-1.0 Topsoil, dark brown to red.
1.0 - 3.0 Black, fine material.
3.0 - 3.5 Same, but light gray.
3.5 - 5.5 Sand, red, coarse, damp, some clay.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
7 0-0.5 Topsoil.
0.5 - 1.5 Clay, red.
1.5 - 4.0 Sand, red, coarse, with gravel, damp.
4.0 - 6.0 Looks exactly like "Sakrete."
6.0 - 6.5 Sand, black, coarse, wet.
6.5 - 10.5 Same, with slag.
SAMPLE: 10 ft.
105
-------
Table A-6.—Analyses of substrate samples from Hanna Furnace, site 135,
Buffalo, N.Y., August 2, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. A-5. Concentrations are in ug/kg.]
Sample number
Constituents
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Constituents
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
1 (Split)
(2.5)
400, OOOtt (380
170, OOOtt (160
83,000,000 (71,000
40,000 (70
Sampl
4
11
4,200
30
, OOOtt)
, OOOtt)
,000) 21
,000)
e number
5
(6)
,000
,000
,000
,000
and
(3
7
92
,000
60
and
6
depth
2
.5)
,000
,ooot
,000
,000
depth
6
(5.
10,
28,
,000,
30,
below land
t
8
3
(6.5)
6,000
4,000
,700,000
10,000
below land
5)
000
000
000
000
5
surface
3
4
(5.
3
11
,700
20
surface
(
3
12
,000
10
7
10)
,000
,000
,000
,000
(ft)
5)
,000
,000
,000
,000
(ft)
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples from undisturbed soils in the Buffalo area.
Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
78° 5V04'
42°
50'
09"
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS Field sketch, 1982
Figure A-5.
Location of sampling holes at Hanna Furnace Corporation,
site 135, Buffalo.
106
-------
138. MCNAUGHTON-BROOKS, INC. (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915034
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The McNaughton-Brooks,
Inc. site, in the city of Buffalo, contains a rubble pile upon which approxi-
mately 600 gallons of solvents such as xylol, toluol, and paint sludges were
disposed of in the 1960's. This activity ceased in 1966.
Vertical migration of contaminants by ground-water movement would be inhib-
ited by the clay layer below land surface. Horizontal migration due to advec-
tion could occur during seasons of high precipitation. The high concentration
of synthetic organic compounds in one of the soil samples indicates that hori-
zontal migration away from the disposal site may have occurred. The presence of
these compounds indicates a major potential for contaminant migration.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test holes on the
site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure A-6. The geologic logs are as
follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-3.5 Topsoil, debris, rubble, could not
drill there, moved 5 ft.
0 - 2.5 Topsoil, debris, rubble.
2.5 - 3.0 Sand, black wet.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
2 0-4 Topsoil and debris.
4 - 6 Dark gray.
6 - 6.5 Clay, green.
SAMPLE: 5 ft.
3 0-2 Brown topsoil and debris.
2 - 3 Dark gray.
3 - 5 Clay, light gray/green.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
4 0-2 Black organic topsoil.
2 4 Clay, gray/green.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic data were obtained because water did not
collect in the wells installed in test holes, even though the material appeared
to be wet below about 2.5 ft. The moist material was encountered at approxi-
mately 580 ft above NGVD.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample at
each borehole for cadmium, chromium, iron, lead, and organic-compounds analyses;
results are given in table A-7. The lead concentrations were higher here than
in the soil samples from undisturbed areas. The samples contained 21 organic
priority pollutants, 22 nonpriority pollutants, and some unknown hydrocarbons.
107
-------
EXPLANATION
jest boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-6. Location of sampling holes at MeNaughton-Brooks, Inc.,
site 138, Buffalo.
108
-------
Table A~7.—Analyses of substrate samples from McNaughton Brooks, site 138,
Buffalo, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. A-6. Concentrations are in pg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
First sampling (08-05-82) (2.5) (5.0) (2.5) (3.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Iron
Lead
1,000 1,000 1,000
6,000 7,000 4,000 5,000
7,500,000 7,100,000 2,900,000 5,700,000
520,OOOTt 40,000 70,000 70,000
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A 4A
Second sampling (05-17-83) (2.5)
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur1
Organic compounds
(5.0) (2.5)
37,000
(3.0)
—
Priority pollutants
Benzene
Ethylbenzene
Methylene chloride
Toluene
Phenol
Acenaphthene
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
6.8**
70.2**
284 **
18.0**
*
*
*
30.1
119
91.5
*
*
33.5
84.5
*
*
*
15.6
4.3
*
*
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Buffalo area. Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
* Compounds detected but not quantified—Holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
109
-------
Table A-7.—Analyses of substrate samples from McNaughton Brooks, site 138,
Buffalo, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-6. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface
1A 2A 3A 4A~
(2.5) (5.0) (2.5) (3.0)
Second sampling (05-17-83)
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Di-n-butyl/phthalate
Di-n-octyl/phthalate
Benzo( a) anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)f luoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene
Chrysene
Acenaphthylene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Dibenzo( a, h) anthracene
Indeno( 1 ,2 ,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
Acetone
2-Butanone
Carbon disulfide
4-Methyl-2-pentanone
Styrene
0-xylene
Dibenzofuran
2-Methylnaphthalene
1 ,7 ,7-Trimethyl-tricyclo-
(2.2.1.02,6)heptane1
l-Ethyl-2-methyl-benzene1
Tetrahydrofuran1
3-Methyl-2-butanone1
1-Pentanol1
2 ,6 ,6-Trimethyl-bicyclo-
(3.1.1)hepten-2-ene1
1,3-and 1 ,4-Dimethylbenzene1
Benzofuran1
Unknown hydrocarbons1
Cis-1 ,2-Dimethylcyclo-
hexane1
5-Methyl-l-phenyl-hexane1
2-Propyloxybenzene1
1 ,3 ,5-Trimethylbenzene1
1 ,2 ,3-Trimethylbenzene1
*
—
* *
* *
* *
* A
*
*
*
*
*
* *
257 540
99.5
7.9
208
15.5
609 265
* *
* _
*
*
— *
— A
— *
— *
*
*
*
__
— __
__
*
*
*
*
*
*
— _
*
*
_ —
614
*
A
„_
*
*
*
*
*
*
__
—
*
*
*
*
*
— ._
__
*
A
__
— __
13.1
A
A
A
A
A
__
A
A
A
110
-------
NYSDEC 915037
140. HOUDAILLE INDUSTRIES—MANZEL DIVISION (USGS field reconnaissance)
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Houdaille
Industries-Manzel Division site, in the southern part of the city of Buffalo,
was used for cutting oils, solvents, and cooling compounds, which were dumped
directly upon the ground.
The potential for horizontal migration of contaminants at this site is
indeterminable, but the potential for vertical migration is limited by the under-
lying clay unit. The U.S. Geological Survey first sampled this site in 1982 but
resatnpled it in the spring of 1983 to verify offsite contaminant migration.
Geologic information.—The site is underlain by glacial-lake deposits of inter-
bedded clay, silt, and fine sand; these in turn are underlain by limestone
bedrock at 20 ft below land surface.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings on the site in August
1982; the locations are shown in figure A-7. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 4.0 Topsoil and fill.
4.0 - 4.5 Clay, dark gray.
4.5 - 6.5 Clay, yellow.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
2 0-1.5 Topsoil, organic, peatlike.
1.5 - 3.0 Soil, loose, brown, dry.
3.0 - 6.5 Clay, greenish-yellow, dry.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
3 0-3.0 Topsoil, black, organic,
becoming brown near bottom.
3 - 3.5 Sand, greenish-yellow.
3.5 - 6.6 Clay, greenish-yellow.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
4 0 2.5 Topsoil, black, organic.
2.5 - 4.0 Clay, yellow.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Hydrologic data are lacking because the test borings
did not encounter ground water, but a seasonal water table may form within the
more permeable sand zones above bedrock. The direction of ground-water flow
would most likely be southward toward the Buffalo River.
Chemical information.—In August 1981, the Erie County Department of Environment
and Planning collected seven soil samples for benzene, toluene, xylene, chloro-
form, and polychlorinated biphenyl analysis. Toluene and xylene had concentra-
tions of less than 7,000 Mg/kg in all samples. Benzene had a concentration of
less than 7,000 Mg/kg in six samples, but the seventh had a concentration of
56,000 Mg/kg. Chloroform concentrations ranged from 253,000 to 425,500 ppb, and
polychlorinated biphenyls ranged from 310 to 38,100 ppb.
Ill
-------
In August 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey collected four soil samples for
copper, iron, lead, nickel, and organic compound analysis; results are given in
table A-8. Copper in sample 3 exceeded concentrations in soil samples from
undisturbed areas. The samples contained 22 organic priority pollutants, some
with concentrations as high as 30,000 yg/kg (fluoranthene); six organic
nonpriority pollutants were also detected.
42°
52'
24'
EXPLANATION
Test boring and
substrate sample
Boys club
playground
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-7. Location of sampling holes at Houdaille Industries-Hansel Division,
site 140, Buffalo.
112
-------
Table A-8.—Analyses of substrate samples from Houdaille Industries, site 140,
Buffalo, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. A-7. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
12 34
First sampling (08-06-82) (4.0) (3.0) (3.0) (2.5)
Inorganic Constituents
Copper
Iron
Lead
Nickel
Second sampling (05-20-83)
2,000
620,000
Sample number
1A
67,000
(depths are
2A
100,000tt
1,600,000 1
10,000
same as in first
3A
,800,000
20,000
sampling)
4A
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride
Tetrachloroethene
Toluene
Trichloroethene
Acenaphthene
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Chrysene
Acenaphthalene
Anthracene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
Indeno(l,2,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene
6-BHC
Benzo(b)fluoranthene
Benzo(k)fluoranthene
380
560
10
LT
30,000
4,000
6,000
14,000
18,000
10,000
16,000
4,000
18,000
12,000
16,000
28,000
29
650
370
370
280
370
LT
LT
LT
750
LT
560
LT
24
2,300
1,400
1,900
2,800
1,900
LT
2,800
1,900
2,800
LT
3,300
3,300
210
20
1,400
9,500
2,400
3,300
1,900
3,300
4,300
2,400
LT
1,900
10,000
1,400
6,200
2,400
2,400
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Buffalo area. Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
113
-------
Table A-8.—Analyses of substrate samples from Houdaille Industries, site 140,
Buffalo, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-7. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
1A
Second sampling (05-20-83) (4.0)
Nonpriority pollutants
Acetone 190
Dibenzofuran —
Fluorotrichloromethane 50
2-Methylnaphthalene
1-Methylnaphthalene1 —
1 , 8-Dimethylnaphthalene1
Benzo( j)f luoranthene1
Sample
2A
(3.0)
—
170
18
280
350,000
325,000
— — .
number
3A
(3.0)
—
LT
16
LT
—
—
700,000
4A
(2.5)
—
1,900
46
LT
—
—
1,000,000
141. MOBIL OIL CORPORATION (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915040
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Mobil Oil
Corporation site, in the southern part of the city of Buffalo, was used to
dispose of unknown quantities of cooling water, air-flotation unit sediments,
gravity-separator sediments, tetraethyl lead, lubricating sludges, spent cata-
lysts, and soil contaminated with asphalt.
The highly permeable sand underlying the site suggests a major potential
for contaminant migration to the Buffalo River. The rate of movement and the
concentration of contaminants would depend on the amount of precipitation per-
colating through the unsaturated zone and the ground-water gradients at the
site.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill underlain by fine to medium
sand and gravel. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings in August
1982; locations are shown in figure A-8. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 6.5 Topsoil, fill, gravel, sand, fine to
medium, brown, wet at 5.5 ft.
6.5 - 11.5 Same but wetter.
11.5 - 16.5 Sand, dark gray-green; depth is below
river bed.
SAMPLE: 8 ft.
114
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
2 0-1.0 Topsoil, brown.
1.0 - 1.5 Clay, greenish, with petroleum smell.
1.5 - 5.5 Sand, brown to dark brown, fill material.
5.5 - 6.0 Black, tar-looking material.
6.0 - 11.5 Same as above but not as wet.
Still strong petroleum smell.
11.5-16.5 No return, bit looked same as above.
SAMPLE: 6 ft.
3 0-11.5 Fill, gravel, sand, fine to medium.
SAMPLE: 9 ft.
4 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 5.0 Sand, medium to coarse, brown.
5.0 - 10.0 Sand, clayey, medium to coarse, gray-brown.
10.0 - 11.5 Clay, sandy.
SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water is at or slightly above the water-surface
altitude of the Buffalo River. Direction of ground-water flow is toward the
river.
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-8. Location of sampling holes at Mobil Oil Corporation,
site 141, Buffalo.
115
-------
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample from
each test boring for lead, iron, and organic compound analysis; results are
given in table A-9. One substrate sample had a much greater concentration of
lead (920,000 yg/kg) than samples from undisturbed areas. Samples contained 19
organic priority pollutants, some with concentrations as high as 46,000 yg/kg;
and nine organic nonpriority pollutants.
Table A-9.—Analyses of substrate samples from Mobil Oil, site 141, Buffalo, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. A-8. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
First sampling (08-06-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(8.0) (6.0) (9.0) (6.5)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Lead
Second sampling (05-20-83)
150,000 110,000 3,500,000 72,000
30,000 920,000tt
Sample number (depth is same as in first sampling)
1A 2A 3A 4A
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride
Ethylbenzene
Toluene
Aldrin
a-BHC
Fluoranthene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene
Benzo(k)fluoranthene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
Chrysene
Naphthalene
Acenaphthalene
790
1,500
1,000
1,000
LT
LT
1,000
LT
1,000
300
95
13
LT
38,000
15,000
15,000
LT
15,000
46,000
31,000
15,000
LT
15,000
11
LT
1,100
520
520
730
030
730
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
ft Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Buffalo area. Analyses for iron were not done for the undisturbed soils.
116
-------
Table A-9.—Analyses of substrate samples from Mobil Oil, site 141, Buffalo, N.Y.
(continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-8. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A 4A
Second sampling (05-20-83) (8.0) (6.0) (9.0) (6.5)
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Anthracene — 11,000
Benzo(ghi)perylene — LT
Fluorene ~ 11,000
Nonpriority pollutants
Fluorotrichloromethane — 47
2-Methylnaphthalene — LT
Carbon disulfide — LT
2-Methylbutane1 — 45,000
Cyclohexane1 — 100,000
Benzo(k)fluoranthene — — — 600,000
Methylcyclohexane1 — 550,000
1,2-Dimethyl-cis-cyclohexane1 - 360,000
3-Hepten-2-one1 — 80,000
1-Methylpyrene1 — — — 600,000
Hydrocarbons1 — 870,000 ~ —
142. MOLLENBERG-BETZ CORPORATION (Literature review) NYSDEC 915041
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Mollenberg-Betz
Corporation site, in the downtown area of the city of Buffalo, is used primarily
for the servicing and manufacturing of commercial refrigeration equipment.
Before August 31, 1978, machinery brought into the plant was reportedly steam
cleaned in a 20- by 20-ft area behind the main building before being serviced.
The washwater contained oil, grease, and dirt and was permitted to percolate
directly into the ground. Also reported was the use of waste oil on the parking
lot for dust control. These practices ceased as of September 1, 1978.
The company's present disposal practices make contaminant migration unlikely,
but the potential for contamination from this site is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—Soils in the area consist of lake silt, sand, and clay
overlying dolomitic bedrock. Depth to bedrock is estimated to be approximately
20 ft below land surface.
Hydrologic information.—No ground-water data are available. Surface drainage
from the site probably flows into the Buffalo sewer system.
Chemical information.—No chemical data are available.
117
-------
144. OTIS ELEVATOR (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915073
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Otis Elevator
site, in the eastern part of the city of Buffalo, was used to dispose of an
unknown quantity of foundry sand containing phenol binders until 1942. Since
then, the site has been covered with soil, graded, and planted.
Data are insufficient to confirm contamination or contaminant migration.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled eight test borings
on the site; the locations are shown in figure A-9. Seven of the borings hit
refusal at 3 ft below grade, which was attributed to the rocky fill. The
eighth was drilled to 4 ft below grade, and a split-spoon sample was taken.
The core was described as soil with rock fragments.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic data were collected at the site because
all test-bore cuttings were dry.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected the soil sample on
August 30, 1982, for phenolic compound analysis; no phenols were detected.
The Survey collected another substrate sample on June 8, 1983, for organic
priority pollutant analysis; no compounds were detected.
78° 49'50"
42°
55'
15"
Parking lot
Fence
-X *—
Delevan
Ave
Not to seale
01
•o
c
EXPLANATION
• Test boring (no sample)
O Substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-9. Location of sampling holes at Otis Elevator, site 144, Buffalo.
118
-------
146. PRATT AND LETCHWORTH (Literature review)
NYSDEC 915045
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Pratt and
Letchworth site, in the northern part of the City of Buffalo, was used during
1949-65 to dispose of foundry sands, slag, lubricating and hydraulic oil, paper,
and wood. The quantities of these materials were: sand, 1,200 tons/yr; slag,
1,000 tons/yr; and lubricating and hydraulic oil, 14,000 gal/yr.
Available chemical data indicate some potential for migration of consti-
tuents through the fill and into the clay unit, but more data would be needed to
substantiate this and to evaluate horizontal movement. Thus, the potential for
migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—In August 1982, the site owners drilled one geologic test
boring onsite; the log indicated 15 to 18 ft of foundry sand underlain by clay.
Hydro1 og i c informat i on.—No hydrologic data are available because the core was
dry. Any ground-water flow that may occur would probably be southeastward
toward Scajaquada Creek.
Chemical information.—In August 1982, the site owners collected three soil
samples of the following types: (1) foundry sand from the surface of the fill,
(2) foundry sand from just above the clay, and (3) the clay soil.
The samples were analyzed for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, iron, nickel, and
PCB's. In November 1982, the site owners collected three samples of the above
type for phenol and total organic halogen analyses; they also collected soil
samples upstream, adjacent to, and downstream of the site for the constituents
listed above. Results of the analyses are given in table A-10.
Table A-10.—Analyses of soil samples from Pratt and Letchworth,
site 146, Buffalo, N.Y., 19821
[Concentrations are in ug/kg; blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Sample description
Constituent
Foundry
sand at
surface
Foundry
sand above
clay
Clay
soil
Upstream
soil
Adjacent
soil
Downstream
soil
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Iron
Nickel
Phenols
<30
<50
<250
<25
560
Total organic
halogens
plus PCB <1,000
<30
<60
<650
2,500
300
340
<30
50
1,500
5,600
1,000
310
<1 ,000 <1,000
<400
1,120
27,100
10,700,000
12,800
<1,000
<300
1,870
26,700
18,300,000
20,200
-------
147. RAMCO STEEL (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915046
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Ramco Steel site
is in the city of Buffalo. A detailed map showing the location of the site and
of soil and surface-water-sampling points is shown in figure A-10. For an
unknown period of time, a lagoon at the site received a mixture of used pickling
liquors, rinse water, lime sludge, iron, and chrome. The quantity of each waste
disposed of was as follows:
waste liquor
rinse water and lime sludge
iron
chrome
75,000 gal/yr
6,000 gal/yr
unknown
unknown
Use of the lagoon for waste disposal has been discontinued.
The potential for the migration of contaminants offsite is indeterminable.
The slightly elevated concentrations of copper and lead indicate that some
migration may be taking place, but if the underlying clay is continuous
throughout the area, the potential of vertical migration would be limited. The
pond-water quality should be studied in detail because the pond is a route of
contaminant egress from the site.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three test borings on
the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure A-10. The geologic logs are
as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 4.0 Topsoil, black, gravel.
4.0 - 7.0 Cinders and soil, black, very wet,
7.0 - 10.0 Clay, sandy, brown-green, soupy,
hit refusal at 10 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 7-9 ft.
2 0-2.5 Rock fill.
2.5 - 4.0 Sand, fine, brown, soupy.
4.0 - 5.5 Clay, brown-red.
SOIL SAMPLE: 4 ft.
3 0-2.5 Rock fill, cinders.
2.5 - 4.0 Rock fill, very wet.
4.0 - 5.5 Clay, sandy, olive green, wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic data were obtained from the site because
a well could not be developed to produce significant water, even though the soil
was moist below 2.5 ft. Probably a seasonal water table had formed at an alti-
tude of 580 ft above NGVD at the time of sampling.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected a soil sample from each
of the three boreholes, a duplicate soil sample at borehole 1, and two surface-
water samples from holes 4 and 5; results are given in table A-ll. The sub-
strate samples contained higher copper concentrations than soil samples from the
undisturbed areas. The concentrations of iron and lead exceeded USEPA criteria
for drinking water.
120
-------
Table A-ll.—Analyses of substrate and surface-water samples from Ramco Steel,
site 147, Buffalo, N.Y. , July 22, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. A-10. Concentrations are in ug/kg and
Mg/L; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found.
Blank space indicates not measured.]
(7
1
.0)
Subs
depth
trate sampl
below land
(
Split)
e number
surface
(4
2
.0)
Specific conductance
(p mho/ era)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic Constituents
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
10,
21,
6,500,
30,
000
000
000
000
(10
(9
(7,600
(40
,000)
,000)
,000) 6,
,000)
6
500
,000
,000
and Surface-water
(ft) sample number
3 4
(5.0)
720
23.0
3,000 1
53,000tt 19
9,360,000 7,400t
6
5
3,980
24.0
24
17,OOOT
270T
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Buffalo area. Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
78° 50'15"
Two drainage ditches connected
Lagoon
Red sludge at bottom of lagoon
and m ditches 4
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Surface-water sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-10. Location of sampling holes at Ramco Steel, site 147, Buffalo.
121
-------
148. REPUBLIC STEEL (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915047
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Republic Steel
landfill, in the southern part of the city of Buffalo, has been used since 1930
for disposal and storage of precipitator dust, clarifier sludge, railroad ties,
checker bricks, scrap wood, roll scale, blast-furnace dust, EOF brick, refuse,
and miscellaneous debris.
Geologic and preliminary chemical data collected by the U.S. Geological
Survey indicate a limited potential for contaminant migration. One water sample
indicates contamination by ethylbenzene and phenol. The potential for con-
taminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site is underlain by a layer of lacustrine sediments
ranging in thickness from 8 to more than 20 ft overlying a dense silty till that
overlies shale bedrock.
Hydrologic information.—Water levels in five deep monitoring wells during
August 1979 and February 1982 are shown in table A-12. The potentiometric
surface at those times is depicted in figure A-ll; both maps show the general
direction of ground-water flow to be westward toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected six ground-water
samples from two shallow wells and from four deep wells on the site and a
surface-water sample from a drainage ditch. All ground-water samples were
analyzed for USEPA priority pollutants; results are given in table A-13. Con-
centrations of iron in the samples were higher than the USEPA criterion for
drinking water or the New York State standard for ground water. Lead was higher
than the New York State standard in all samples, and manganese in sample 3A was
higher than the standard. Phenol in sample 2A was much higher than the State
standard. The samples contained two organic priority pollutants, six organic
nonpriority pollutants, and three organic compounds potentially of natural
origin.
Table A-12.—Water levels in five deep monitoring wells
on Republic Steel, site 148, Buffalo, N.Y.l
[Well locations are shown in fig. A-ll.]
Well
number
1
2
3
4
5
Water level (feet
August 1979
dry
579.56
580.49
dry
583.10
above sea level)
February 1982
dry
dry
581.57
579.93
582.86
1 August 1979 data from McPhee, Smith, Rosenstein
Engineers, P.C. February 1982 data from Malcolm
Pirnie Associates.
122
-------
Table A-13.—Analyses of ground-water and surface-water samples from Republic
Steel, site 148, Buffalo, N.Y., July 22-23, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. A-ll. Concentrations are in Ug/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
PH
Specific conductance
Surface water
1
7.8
1,430
2
(24.8)
9.2
608
Ground water
2A
(4.3)
11.4
2,125
3A
(14.9)
8.0
900
(umho/cm)
Temperature (°C) 27.0 10.2 17.0 10.5
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum — 357 662 —
Antimony — — — —
Arsenic — — I4t —
Barium 224 — -- 532
Beryllium — — — —
Cadmium — — — —
Chromium 30 17 37 46
Cobalt
Copper — — — —
Iron 373t l.OROt 829t 2,220t
Lead 53T 51T 36t 40t
Manganese 24 90 72 l.OOOt
Mercury — — —
Nickel
Selenium — — — —
Silver
Tin
Tellurium — — —
Vanadium — — — —
Zinc — 26 18 46
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Ethylbenzene** — — LT
Phenol — — 40t
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concen-
tration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an internal
standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts,
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or the NYS standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
** Volatile found in GC/MS extractions. Concentration probably higher than
that detected.
123
-------
Table A-13.—Analyses of ground-water and surface-water samples from Republic
Steel, site 148, Buffalo N.Y., July 22-23, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-ll. Concentrations are in yg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Surface water Ground water
1
2
(24.8)
2A
(4.3)
3A
(14.9)
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants
2,3-Dichloro-2-methyl
butane1 LT
1,3-Ditnethylbenzene1 —
3-Hexanol1 —
4-Methyl-2-pentanol1 —
l-(2-butoxyethoxy)-
ethanol1 52
14
24
24
13
370
20
650
Ground water
4
(19.7)
5
(17.7)
5A
(4.6)
pH
Specific conductance
(umho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum
Antimony
Arsenic
Barium
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Cobalt
Copper
Iron
Lead
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Tin
Tullerium
Vanadium
Zinc
11.2
710
10.0
7.5
1,025
10.5
7
3,625
14.5
158
39
264
20
26
52
276,0001
17
574t
4
37
23,400t
19
8,520t
17
33
124
-------
Table A-13.—'•Analyses of ground-water and surface-water samples from Republic
Steel, site 148, Buffalo N.Y., July 22-23, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-ll. Concentrations are in ug/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Ground water
A
(19.7)
5
(17.7)
5A
(4.6)
Organic compounds
Nonpriority pollutants
1 ,3-Dimethylbenzene1
Cyclohexanol
Hexahyd ro-2H-azepho-
2-one1
l-(2-butoxyethoxy)-
ethanol1
Cyc lohexanone^
2-Hexanone1
16
25
78
5.6
LT
150
LT
—
78° 50'09'
42°
50'
09'
Not to scale
'582-
EXPLANATION
Monitoring well
Surface water sample
• Water-table altitude m1982
Contour interval 1 foot
General direction of
ground-water flow
Base from Republic Steel Corporation, 1982
Figure A-ll.
Potentiometris surface and location of sampling holes at
Republic Steel, site 148, Buffalo, August 1979 and February 1982.
125
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162. ALLTTFT LANDFILL (Literature review)
NVSDKC
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Alltift Landfill,
a 25-acre area south of the city of Buffalo, has been a disposal site since the
1950's. From the 1950's to the early 1970's, the site was used to dispose of
bulk loads of dye, oil sludges, phenolic compounds, chrome sludge, copper
sulfate, nitrobenzene, monochlorobenzene, and naphthalene. The amount of
material deposited is unknown.
The landfill was inactive from the early 1970's to the late 1970's. Since
then it has been used for the disposal of auto-demolition shredder waste, core
sands, fly ash, and sand waste at a rate of 40,000 to 60,000 yd3/yr. The dispo-
sal area is now in the northern third of the site (fig. A-12).
Chemical data suggest that inorganic contaminants are migrating through the
clay unit. The concentration of phenols, arsenic, mercury, chlorides, and
sulfates in the zone above the clay greatly exceed ground-water standards;
therefore, the potential for contaminant migration would become major if the
contaminants were to move through the clay and into the lower aquifer.
78° 50' 19"
42°
50'
40'
EXPLANATION
Monitoring well screened
above the clay unit
Monitoring well screened
below the clay unit
Not to scale
Base from Recra Research, 1982
Figure A-12. Location of sampling holes at Alltift Landfill, site 162, Buffalo.
126
-------
Geologic information.—The site consists of alluvium and fill of recent age
underlain by till and lacustrine clay, which are in turn underlain by limestone
and shale of Devonian age. Two consulting reports—Wehran Engineering and Recra
Research (1978) and Recra Research (1982)—discuss these units in detail and
include geologic cross sections. A generalized geologic column is shown in
figure A-13.
PERIOD
QUATERNARY
z
<
z
0
>
Q
PERIOD
RECENT
5CONSIN AGE)
PLEISTOCENE (WIJ
FORMATION
Fill
Unconformable
Alluvium
Conformable
Glaciolacustrine clay
Conformable
Basal
glaciolacustrme/
glacial till
• Unconformable •
Skaneateles
formation:
Stafford limestone
member
Marcel lus
tormation'
Oatka Creek
shale member
COLUMNAR
SECTION
£
~ ;•?-" . — :: T- .T
TT-.- -*r:'. — -:•
:>:i^vo
:™V'-A
ZS&>
1
THICKNESS
IN FEET
0-18
0-6
6-43
0-12.5
<15
30-55
CHARACTER
Refuse, wood, concrete,
cinders, fly ash,
decomposed vegetation,
sand, metal fragments;
highly permeable
Fine sand silt*
Marginally permeable
Grey varved clay,
occasional laminations
of silt or fine sand,
stiff at upper contact,
soft to very soft below;
highly impermeable
Clayey silts, some sand
and gravel; marginally
permeable
Grey limestone
Black calcareous shale
Figure A-13.
Generalised geologic column of formations underlying the
Alltift Landfill, site 162, Buffalo.
(Site location is shown in fig. A-12. Modified from Recra
Research, Inc., 1982.)
127
-------
Hydrologic information.—A water-table map of the shallow fill and alluvium by
Wehran and Recra (1978) indicates a ground-water mound near the eastern boundary
of the site. Water levels in the eight borings used to construct the map ranged
from 580.8 to 584.8 ft above NGVD. This mound is probably the result of the
relatively impermeable glaciolacustrine clay, which inhibits vertical flow and
causes water infiltrating from the surface soils and alluvium to move laterally
away from the site.
Permeability tests on two samples of the glaciolacustrine clay by Wehran and
Recra (1978) indicated permeabilities of 5.8 x 10~8 cm/s and 6.4 x 10~8 cm/s.
The report concluded that the permeability of the clay was sufficiently low to
prevent vertical migration of contaminants from the upper unconsolidated water-
bearing zone to the lower aquifers.
In 1982, the site owner drilled four borings to the upper part of the
bedrock aquifer, collected water-level data, and constructed a potentiometric-
contour map. The potentiometric surface slopes gently northward and ranges from
576.3 ft to a low of 574.9 ft above NGVD. Comparison of the water-table and
potentiometric-surface maps indicates that the heads beneath the clay are lower
and that a vertical flow component is present; however, the rate of movement
through the unit would be slow. Additional data would be needed to define the
vertical ground-water gradients at the site.
Chemical information.—In 1978, the site owner collected seven ground-water
samples from wells screened above the glaciolacustrine clay for inorganic
constituent analysis; results are given in table A-14.
In 1982, the site owner drilled four wells screened below the clay and
collected water samples for chemical analysis. Well locations are shown in
fig. A-12. The samples were analyzed by Recra Research; results are given
in table A-15.
Sources of data
Wehran Engineering and Recra Research, Inc., 1978, Hydrogeological investigation
of Alltift Landfill, Buffalo, N.Y.: 50 p., 1 appendix, 2 maps, 5 figs.,
10 tables.
Recra Research Inc. and Sodarholm Engineering, 1980, Part 360 application for
permit to operate a solid waste management facility; Buffalo, N.Y.:
Alltift Company, Inc., 22 p., 1 appendix.
Recra Research Inc., 1982, Supplemental hydrogeological investigation, Buffalo,
N.Y.: Alltift Company, Inc., 17 p., 1 appendix, 3 tables, 1 fig., 3 prints.
128
-------
Table A-14.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells screened above
glaciolacustrine clay at the Alltift landfill, site 162,
Buffalo, N.Y., July 19781
[Locations shown in fig. A-13. Concentrations are in pg/L
except as indicated. NV indicates that value was not reported.]
Constituent or
characteristic
PH
Specific conductance
(pmho/cm at 25°C)
Dissolved oxygen
Biochemical oxygen
demand, 5-day
Chemical oxygen
demand
Coliform, total
(organisms/lOOmL)
Ammonia, as nitrogen
Nitrate, as nitrogen
Nitrite, as nitrogen
Total kjedahl nitrogen,
as nitrogen
Phosphate, total (as phosphorous)
Sulfate
Detergent (Methylene blue
active substances
Phenols
Alkalinity „
Total lolids 4
Color (platinum-
cobalt units)
Hardness, total
Chlorides 3
Total organic carbon
Total halogenated
hydrocarbons, as Cl
PCB
Aluminum, total
Arsenic, total
Chromium, total
Chromium, hexavalent
Copper, total
Lead, total
Mercury, total
Potassium, total
Bl
7.28
6,000
5,800
359,000 7
489,000 2
130
77,600 1
<100
50
91,900 1
556
86,300
160
37
,280,000 8
,410,000 30
500
665,000 1
,630,000 8
950,000 1
8.42
<1 .0
260
6.3
14
<10
<3
<30
<1.3
98,000
Sample
B2
7.47
21,000
4,300
,020,000
,580,000
24,000
,930,000
<500
50
,490,000
1,290
number
B4
6.43
11,000
7,200
96,500
593,000
230
73,9000
<500
50
106,000
44
441,000 2,660,000
50
696
,270,000
190
50
B5
7.10
4,000
4,200
242,000
291,000
130
61,200
120
80
69,200
86
387,000
150
20
915,000 1,530,000
,000,000 9,590,000 2,
NV
,250,000 2,
,450,000 3,
,400,000
38.4
<1 .0
50
131
546
40
26
<30
3.8
908,000
Sodium, total 1,060,000 3,080,000 2,
Calcium, total
Silver, total
Iron, total
214,000
<2
280
54,000
<2
2,430
200
260,000
880,000
313,000
1.32
<1 .0
240
<4
<3
<10
15
<30
<1.3
146,000
020,000
760,000
<2
5,080
990,000
150
665,000
730,000
110,000
1.24
<1 .0
60
5.1
10
<10
210
<30
<1 .3
118,000
840,000
146,000
<2
160
1 Data from Wehran Engineering and Recra Research, 1978.
129
-------
Table A-14.—Analyses of ground-water samples from wells screened above
glaciolacustrine clay at the Alltift landfill, site 162,
Buffalo, N.Y., July 19781 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-13. Concentrations are in ug/L
except as indicated. NV indicates that value was not reported,)
Constituent or
characteristic
PH
Specific conductance
(25°C) (umho/cm)
Dissolved oxygen
Biochemical oxygen
demand, 5-day
Chemical oxygen
demand
Coliform, total
(organisms/lOOmL)
Ammonia, as nitrogen
Nitrate, as nitrogen
Nitrite, as nitrogen
Total kjedahl nitrogen,
as nitrogen
Phosphate, total (as phosphorus)
Sulfate
Detergent (Methylene blue
active substances
Phenols
Alkalinity
Total solids
Color (platinum-
cobalt units)
Hardness, total
Chlorides
Total organic carbon
Total halogenated
hydrocarbons, as Cl
PCB
Aluminum, total
Arsenic, total
Chromium, total
Chromium, hexavalent
Copper, total
Lead, total
Mercury, total
Potassium, total
Sodium, total
Calcium, total
Silver, total
Iron, total
Sample number
B6
7.34
5,400
6,200
605,000
379,000
24,000,000
107,000
<100
50
125,000
130
240,000
30
30
1,760,000 2
4,950,000 6
200
594,000
1,010,000 2
488,000
3.33
<1 .0
<30
21.3
6
<10
5
<30
<1.3
128,000
1,140,000 1
190,000
<2
30
B7
8.00
7,900
NV
NV
780,000
NV
259,000
<100
70
NV
NV
NV
NV
89
,250,000 2,
,100,000 6,
NV
NV
,070,000 1,
NV
NV
NV
<30
15.4
16
10
10
<30
10.7
182,000
,560,000 1,
56,000
<4
460
B8
7.70
6,000
NV
NV
499,000
NV
113,000
<100
120
NV
44
299,000
30
71
390,000
100,000
700
536,000
430,000
538,000
NV
NV
40
12.2
12
10
14
<30
NV
118,000
300,000
18,000
3
20
1 Data from Wehran Engineering and Recra Research, 1978.
130
-------
Table A-15.—Analyses of ground-water samples from four wells screened below
glaciolacustrine clay at Alltift landfill, site 162, Buffalo,
N.Y, May 19821
[Locations are shown in fig. A-13. Concentrations are in ug/L
unless otherwise indicated; LT indicates constituent or compound
was found but below quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number
Characteristic
Ammonia, as nitrogen
Nitrate, as nitrogen
Biochemical oxygen
demand, 5-day
Chemical oxygen demand
Total kjedahl nitrogen, as N
Sulfate
Methylene blue active
substances
Total recoverable
phenolics
Alkalinity (pH 4.5), as CaC03
Total filterable
residue (180°C)
pH
True color (Platinum-
cobalt units)
Total hardness, as
CaC03
Chloride
Odor (Threshold odor number)
Specific conductance
(ymho/cm at 25°C)
Total organic carbon
Coliform, total
( organisms /lOOmL)
Aluminum, total
Arsenic, total
Chromium, total
Chromium, hexavalent
Cadmium, total
Zinc, total
Selenium, total
Copper, total
Lead, total
Mercury, total
Sodium, total
Calcium, total
Silver, total
Manganese, total
Iron, total
Nitrogen-phosphorus
scan (ug/L as nitrogen;
N,N'-dimethylaniline standard)
W-l
2,500
<50
10,000
16,000
4,400
29,000
29
<10
590,000
1,000,000
7.73
15
390,000
260,000
1.8
1,780
5,000
<3
4,300
LT
40
6
LT
1,100
LT
100
30
LT
540,000
68,000
LT
220
88,000
LT
W-2
950
120
6,000
24,000
2,200
52,000
<20
<10
310,000
480,000
8.11
15
250,000
88,000
3.2
820
4,500
<3
7,300
LT
50
12
LT
803
LT
38
LT
LT
150,000
46,000
LT
230
28,000
LT
W-3
740
<50
<5,000
11,000
1,700
45,000
72
<10
350,000
540,000
7.99
17.5
270,000
83,000
9.0
822
2,500
<3
2,000
LT
64
8
LT
1,400
LT
22
LT
LT
14,000
28,000
LT
200
35,000
LT
W-4
2,100
170
<5,000
23,000
2,800
54,000
160
<10
700,000
890,000
12.31
2.5
451,000
88,000
1.4
2,990
9,000
<3
2,200
LT
40
LT
LT
109
LT
40
LT
LT
18,000
170,000
LT
160
54,000
LT
1 Data from Recra Research (1982).
131
-------
173. EMPIRE WASTE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915065
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Empire Waste site,
in the northern part of the city of Buffalo, was used for storing sand and slag
for resale and also received slag from a metal-castings firm in 1977. The con-
centrations of copper and zinc in substrates were higher than those in samples
collected from undisturbed soils not affected by disposal sites. The potential
for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings on
the site; the locations are shown in fig. A-14. The geologic logs are as
follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-4.0 Fill, tannish, then black.
4 - 6.0 Clay, reddish, discolored.
to bluish by overlying fill.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
2 0 - 2.5 Topsoil.
2.5 - 6.5 Clay, reddish, discolored.
SAMPLE: 5.0 ft.
3 0-1.5 Topsoil, mixed.
1.5 - 2.5 Black organic wet dirt.
2.5 - 5.5 Clay, reddish, dry.
5.5 - 6.5 Clay, greenish, wet.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
4 0 - 3.5 Topsoil, becoming black.
3.5 - 5.5 Organic dirt, black, wet.
5.5 - 6.5 Clay, greenish.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic data were obtained from the site except
for moist material encountered between 3.5 and 5.5 ft at an altitude of 595 ft
above NGVD.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a substrate sample
at each borehole for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, mecury, and
zinc analyses; results are given in table A-16. The substrate samples had
higher concentrations of copper and zinc than samples from the undisturbed
areas.
132
-------
Table A-16. — Analyses of substrate samples from Empire Waste, site 173, Buffalo,
N.Y., July 30, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. A-14. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(4.0) (5.0) (5.5) (5.5)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Zinc
—
1,000
6,000
90,000tt
23,000,000
30,000
—
170, 000 -ft
—
—
4,000
17,000
13,000,000
20,000
—
40,000
—
1,000
4,000
95,000tt
17,000,000
100,000
—
74,000
—
—
4,000
41,000tt
38,000,000
40,000
—
39,000
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Buffalo area. Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
42°
57'
25'
c
0)
U
Not to scale
T3
§
OC
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
EXPLANATION
»3 Test boring and
substrate sample
Figure A-14. Location of sampling holes at Empire Waste, site 173, Buffalo,
133
-------
180. HOPKINS STREET (Literature review) NYSDEC 915011
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Hopkins Street
site, in the city of Buffalo, is reported to have been used as a landfill in
the early and mid-1970's. Aerial photographs from these years indicate dispo-
sal operations to have been small and to have caused no major changes in the
physical setting of the site.
No chemical monitoring has been recommended by NYSDEC, and the potential
for chemical migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—No geologic data are available.
Hydrologic information.—No ground-water data are available. However, com-
parison of aerial photographs from past years with 1982 field observations
indicates a change in drainage and grade; also a pond has formed on the site.
The pond is probably perched upon fill or material of low permeability and
does not reflect ground-water conditions.
Chemical information.—No chemical data are available.
184. KELLY ISLAND (Literature review) NYSDEC 915095
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—Kelly Island is a
peninsula bounded by the Buffalo River, City Ship Canal, and Ohio Street.
Most of the fill consists of demolition material, earth, and cinders. The
area was extensively developed before the early 1900's, leaving little room
for hazardous-waste-disposal operations.
The site is in direct hydraulic contact with the Buffalo River and the
City Ship Canal; thus contaminants, if present, would migrate readily.
However, no hazardous waste is known to have been buried at the site; there-
fore, NYSDEC has not recommended chemical monitoring. The potential for con-
taminant migration from this site is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—Construction borings from along Ganson Street (pi. 1)
indicated a mixture of gravel, sand, silt, clay, cinders, and wood to a depth
of 10 ft along the length of the site.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic data are available.
Chemical information.—No chemical data are available.
134
-------
190. LEHIGH VALLEY RAILROAD (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDFC 91507R1
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Lehigh Valley
Railroad site, in the southern part of the city of Buffalo, is an abandoned
landfill covered with soil and vegetation. The material buried at the site con-
sists of fly ash, pit sludge, foundry sand, and sand slurry. The quantity of
material buried is unknown.
The site is underlain by a thick clay deposit that would act as a deterrent
to vertical migration of contaminants. Horizontal migration would occur only if
precipitation moved through the fill, then laterally along the clay surfaces to
eventually discharge westward to the adjacent outer harbor. Cadmium, chromium,
copper, and lead were present, but the potential for contaminant migration is
indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled 20 test holes in July
and August of 1982. The locations are shown in figure A-15; geologic logs are
as follows:
78° 51'22"
Lehigh Valley
Rail yard
42°
50'
52"
EXPLANATION
• 10 Test boring and
substrate sample
Wetland boundary
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-15.
Location of sampling holes at Lehigh Valley Railroad,
site 19Q, Buffalo.
135
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.5 Brown soil and black organic material.
1.5 - 9.0 Clay, olive green, wet.
9.0 - 16.5 Clay, dark green, wetter.
SAMPLE: 9 ft.
2 0-1.0 Topsoil.
1.0 - 3.5 Clay, greenish brown.
3.5 - 21.5 Clay, gray green.
SAMPLE: 17 ft.
3 0-1.5 Topsoil, dark brown, some rock fill.
1.5 - 3.5 Soil, dark brown.
3.5 - 4.5 Clay, dark green, dry.
4.5 - 11.5 Clay, dark green, "soupy."
SAMPLE: 9 ft.
4 0-2.5 Topsoil, brown.
2.5 - 3.5 Clay, sandy, gray-green, dry.
3.5 - 8.0 Sand, gray-green, some clay, moist.
8.0 - 11.5 Same as above but very wet.
SAMPLE: 10 ft.
5 0-3.5 Topsoil.
3 - 6.0 Clay, sandy, green, dry.
6 - 9.0 Clay, sandy, green, wet.
SAMPLE: 10 ft.
6 0-3 Topsoil, brown, with rubble-gravel.
3 - 6.5 Gravel to wet sand, fine to medium.
SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
7 0 - 3.3 Topsoil.
3.3 - 3.5 Clay.
3.5 - 6.5 Sand, fine to medium, gravel at bottom.
SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
8 0-21.5 Gravel fill (probably used to elevate
roadbed). Extremely hard drilling.
Gravel wet at 11.5 ft which is about
level of adjacent lake.
SAMPLE: 11.5 ft.
9 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 3.5 Sand, dark brown.
3.5 - 6.5 Sand, dark green, damp.
6.5 - 11.5 Clay, sandy, dark green, damp.
SAMPLE: 10.0 ft.
10 0 - 5.5 Topsoil, with clay lenses.
5.5 - 6.5 Clay, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
136
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
11 0 - 3.0 Topsoil.
3.0 - 5.5 Clay, dark green.
5.5 - 6.5 Clay, dark green, wet.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
12 0-2.0 Topsoil, black.
2.0 - 5.5 Sand, dark gray, wet.
5.5 - 6.5 Clay, gray green.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
13 0-2.0 Topsoil, yellow-green at top,
darker green downward.
2 - 4.0 Sand, clayey, dry olive green.
4.0 - 10.0 Clay, sandy, olive green,
yellow at 9 ft.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
14 0 - 3.0 Topsoil.
3.5 - 6.0 Clay, olive green.
6.0 - 6.5 Sand, some clay, gray green.
SAMPLE: 6 ft.
15 0 - 11.5 Pebble-size fill; moved east toward treeline,
0-3 Topsoil.
3-6 Clay, gray green, damp.
6 - 6.5 Clay, yellow green, wet.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
16 0-3 Topsoil with rocks and rubble.
3 - 4 Clay, gray green, wet.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
17 0-3 Topsoil, iron colored, very hot coming
out of hole.
3 - 6.5 Clay, gray green, getting wetter
toward bottom.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
18 0-2 Topsoil.
2-3 Sand, coarse, gray green.
3 - 6.5 Clay, gray green, wet.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
19 0-2.5 Topsoil and gravel, black, wet.
2.5 - 5.0 Sand, black, very wet.
5.0 - 6.5 Clay, gray green.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
20 0-3 Topsoil and gravel, black.
3 - 6.5 Clay, gray green.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
137
-------
One test boring was drilled to bedrock. The log is as follows:
0 - 16.5 Black fill material. Hit water table at 10 ft,
16.5 - 56.5 Gray-green clay with some gravel and pebbles.
56.5 - 60.0 Gray-green sandy clay.
60.0 Bedrock.
The well logs suggest glacial lake deposits overlying bedrock and overlain
by fill.
Hydrologic information.—The test-boring information suggests a water table
within the fill at an altitude between 570 and 575 ft above NGVD. Ground water
would probably discharge from the site to the outer harbor.
Chemical information.—In 1982, the Erie County Department of Environment and
Planning and NYSDEC took water and sediment samples for chemical analysis.
Results indicated significant concentrations of heavy metals and minor quan-
tities of polychlorinated biphenyls and total organic halogens (Erie County
Department of Environment and planning, written commun., 1982).
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey collected and analyzed a substrate
sample from each of 20 test borings for cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead,
nickel, and phenols; results are given in table A-17. The concentrations of
cadmium, chromium, copper, and lead were higher than in soil samples from the
undisturbed areas.
Table A-17.—Analyses of substrate samples from Lehigh Valley Railroad,
site 190, Buffalo, N.Y., July-August 1982
[Locations are shown in fig. A-15. Concentrations are in
Mg/kg, dashes indicate constituent or compound was not found.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
12345
(11.5) (17.0) (9.0) (10) (9.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium — — — 1,000 1,000
Chromium 1,000 2,000 7,000 6,000 6,000
Copper 17,000 19,000 14,000 16,000 28,000
Iron 7,200,000 10,000,000 5,400,000 4,100,000 2,300,000
Lead 10,000 10,000 50,000 140,000 50,000
Nickel — 10,000 10,000 10,000
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Phenol
Tt Exceeds concentrations in soil samples from undisturbed areas. Undisturbed soils
were not analyzed for iron.
138
-------
Table A-17.—Analyses of substrate samples from Lehigh Valley Railroad,
site 190, Buffalo, N.Y., July-August 1982 (continued)
[Locations are shown in fig. A-15. Concentrations are in
Ug/kg, dashes indicate constituent or compound was not found.]
Sample
6
(6.5)
number and
7
(6.5)
depth below
8
(11.5)
land surface
9
(10.5)
(ft)
10
(5.5)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Nickel
Organic compound
Phenol (priority
1,000
7,000
40,000
3,400,000 1
26,000
pollutant) —
11
(5.5)
7,000
20,000
2,000,000
10,000
10,000
—
12
(2.0)
5,000
170,000tt
44,OOOtT
20,000,000
35,000
20,000
—
13
(2.0)
1,000
7,000
19,000
7,000,000 10
10,000
20,000
—
14
(6.0)
2,000
20,000
45,000tt
,000,000
140,000
30,000
—
15
(4.5)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Nickel
Organic compound
Phenol (priority
14,000tt
20,000
2,100,000tt
16,000,000
l,600,000tt
30,000
pollutant) —
16
(3.0)
10,000
3,000
4,500,000
10,000
10,000
—
17
(2.5)
3,000
12,000
2,000,000
10,000
—
18
(2.5)
3,000
10,000
2,300,000 5
10,000
—
19
(3.5)
1,000
10,000
21,000
,000,000
40,000
—
20
(3.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Nickel
Organic compounds
Phenol (priority
2,000
8,000
22,000
5,900,000
160,000
10,000
pollutant) —
9,000
25,000
1,400,000
30,000
20,000
—
3,000
13,000
3,500,000
30,000
—
1,000
8,000
74,OOOtT
12,000,000 3
200,000
20,000
—
4,000
13,000tt
,700,000
20,000
—
139
-------
196. NIAGARA FRONTIER PORT AUTHORITY (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915026
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Niagara Frontier
Port Authority site, at the Buffalo outer harbor, was used by an automotive
assembly plant to dispose of an unknown quantity of cafeteria, office, and plant
refuse, including paint sludges. The site also contains dredged lake-bottom
material and demolition debris as well as an unknown amount of casting sands
deposited by a different automobile manufacturer.
Hydrologic data suggest that chemical migration would most likely be toward
the Buffalo harbor. The chemical data, however, do not indicate high con-
centrations of contaminants on the site and suggest that horizontal migration
may not be taking place. Additional data would be needed to evaluate vertical
migration; thus the migration potential is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill material overlying clayey sand.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings in August 1982. Locations
of the borings are shown in figure A-16; logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 10.0 Rock debris, fill.
10.0 - 16.5 Sand, fine to medium, tan to
gray-green at 14 ft, wet.
SAMPLE: 13 ft.
2 0-5.0 Fill debris.
5.0 - 6.0 Sand, light blue-green, damp.
6.0 - 11.5 Sand, clayey, tan.
11.5 - 13.0 Looks like clay at 12-13 ft, gray, wet.
SAMPLE: 12-13 ft.
3 0-1.5 Lime, smells like paint.
1.5 - 3.0 Same.
3.0 - 6.5 Sand, tan to black, gravel and debris,
wet at top.
6.5 - 11.5 Same, with some clay.
11.5 - 16.5 Same with more debris: bricks, glass, etc.
16.5 - 21.5 Hit hard zone at 17 ft; another
at about 19 ft.
21.5 - 26.5 No return—sample off bit.
SAMPLE: 26.5 ft.
4 0-1.5 Brown sand.
1.5 - 5.0 Same.
5.0 - 8.0 Sand, fine to medium, light brown, wet.
8.0 - 11.5 Sand, olive green, some clay, wetter.
SAMPLE: 8.0 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered at 13 to 14 ft below
land surface (590 ft above NGVD); thus, the water-table altitude is 576 to 577
ft above NGVD. The direction of ground-water flow is most likely westward
toward the Buffalo harbor.
140
-------
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a substrate sample
from each test boring for cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, nickel, and
phenol analyses; results are given in table A-18. None of the heavy-metal
concentrations exceeded those in soil samples from the undisturbed areas.
78° 52'30'
42°
5V
42"
EXPLANATION
•2 Test boring and
substrate sample
Heliport
Not to scale
Figure A-16.
Location of
sampling holes
at Niagara
Frontier Port
Authority,
site 196,
Buffalo.
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Table A-18.—Analyses of substrate samples from Niagara Frontier Port
Authority, site 196, Buffalo, N.Y., August 5, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. A-16. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate compound was not found.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(13.0) (13.0) (26.5) (8.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Nickel
—
1,000
—
58,000
—
—
—
2,000
1,000
270,000
—
—
1,000
1,000
38,000
340,000
60,000
—
—
—
—
130,000
—
—
141
-------
200. PROCKNAL AND KATRA (Literature review)
NYSPEC 91S085
General information and chemical migration potential.—The Procknal and Katra
site is in the Village of Blasdell. The active part of the site receives trash
from the Village of Blasdell and bulky material from the City of Lackawanna.
The inactive part, immediately to the south, was used for disposal of rubbish
from the Village of Blasdell. In January 1982 the site received 200 to 300
Q
yd of sand contaminated with coal-tar derivatives from National Fuel Gas. This
material was buried with 1,000 Ib of dehydrated lime. Analyses of the water and
soil samples show low concentrations of metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocar-
bons (PAH). A complete assessment of the site would require more subsurface
data. The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—No site-specific geologic information is available, but
the site is in an area in which the bedrock consists of Skaneateles and
Marcellus shale and thin limestone.
Hydrologic information.—No monitoring wells have been installed; therefore, no
site-specific hydrologic information is available.
Chemical information.—The company collected soil and water samples from four
different locations in 1982; sampling locations are shown in fig. A-17. Water
samples were analyzed for heavy metals, iron, total organic halogens (TOH),
total organic carbon (TOC), and PAH; the soil samples were analyzed for all but
TOG. A leachate breakout was observed at site 2. Results of the soil and water
analyses are given in table A-19.
42°
48'
20'
EXPLANATION
I Sampling hole
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-17* Location of sampling holes at Procknal and Katra,
site 200, Blasdell.
142
-------
Table A-19.—Analyses of surface-water and substrate samples from Procknal
and Katra, site 200, Buffalo, N.Y., April 27, 1982.x
[Locations shown in fig. A-17. Concentrations are in yg/L and
Mg/kg; LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable
detection limit.]
Surface-water sample
Inorganic constituents
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Thallium
Zinc
Organic compounds
Total Organic Carbon
Total Organic Halogen,
asCl2 (Lindane standard)
Polycyclic aromatic compounds
Acenaphthene
Acenaphthylene
Anthracene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Benzo(k)fluoranthene
Chrysene
D ibenzo(a,h)anthr acene
Fluoranthene
Fluorene
IndenoCl,2,3-cd)pyrene
Naphthalene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
LT
LT
LT
10
4
58
410
40
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
4
30
2,200
40
LT
60
LT
LT
LT
120
LT
LT
10
LT
LT
40
1,000
40
LT
60
LT
LT
LT
97
2,000
0.38
8,000
0.64
14,000
1.1
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
0.047
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
0.45
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
0.51
LT
1 Samples analyzed by Procknal and Katra, 1982.
143
-------
Table A-19.—Analyses of surface-water and substrate samples from Procknal and
Katra, site 200, Buffalo, N.Y., April 27, 19821 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-17. Concentrations are in ug/L and
Mg/kg; LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable
detection limit.]
Substrate sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 234
Dry weight percent (46) (76) (12) (72)
Inorganic constituents
Antimony LT
Arsenic 27,000
Beryllium LT
Cadmium 2,000
Chromium 24,000
Copper 570,000
Iron 350,000
Lead 44,000
Mercury LT
Nickel 11,000
Selenium 500
Silver LT
Thallium LT
Zinc 59,000
Organic compounds
Total organic halogen, 1,600
as Cl2 (Lindane standard)
Polynuclear aromatic compounds
LT
2,600
LT
400
9,100
21,000
200,000
10,000
LT
2,000
770
LT
6,600
34,000
1,500
110,000
49,000
LT
29,000
46,000
170,000
1,700,000
220,000
LT
98,000
4,200
LT
22,000
280,000
2,400
8,700
4,400
LT
1,400
8,300
18,000
240,000
49,000
LT
11,000
440
2,900
34,000
560
Acenaphthene
Acenaphthylene
Anthracene
Benzo( a) anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)f luoranthene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Benzo(k) f luoranthene
Chrysene
D ibenzo( a, h) anthracene
Fluoranthene
Fluorene
Indenod , 2,3-cd)pyrene
Naphthalene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
LT
LT
500
3,500
4,200
4,600
6,600
3,800
5,600
12,000
5,600
340
1,820
420
6,500
5,100
LT
LT
LT
LT
550
LT
LT
LT
130
2,000
320
LT
LT
LT
36
LT
LT
LT
290
1,400
2,300
1,900
2,600
2,200
1,700
2,600
3,100
94
1,900
240
880
3,700
LT
370
480
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
370
LT
LT
180
LT
370
1,100
LT
1 Analyses by Procknal and Katra, 1982.
144
-------
203. SOUAW ISLAND (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915052
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—Squaw Island is be-
tween the Niagara River and the Black Rock Canal, which borders the mainland of
the city of Buffalo. The site accepted foundry sand with phenolic binders,
incinerator residue, street sweepings, forest debris, and general refuse for
more than 3 decades. During 1954-70, the island was used for the disposal of
waste foundry sand containing clay, insoluble metal compounds, trace oils, and
resins. The rate of disposal is estimated to have been 300,000 to 400,000
tons per year. In the mid-1970's, much of the fill was excavated and transferred
to the Tifft Farm (site 206, pi. 1).
The highly permeable foundry sand that was used to fill and increase the
size of the island indicates a major potential for migration of contaminants to
the Niagara River and the Black Rock Canal. Any leachate would readily per-
colate to the water table and migrate to the surrounding water bodies.
Geologic information.—The site contains a thin mantle of till and unsorted
sediments overlying limestone bedrock. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled eight
test borings in 1982. Locations of the test holes are shown in fig. A-lft; the
geologic logs are on page 146.
78° 54'12'
42°
55'
23'
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
test boring and
substrate sample
Figure A-18.
Location of
sampling holes
on Squaw Island,
site 203f
Buffalo.
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
1A5
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-3.0 Topsoil, black.
3.0 - 8.0 Clay, red, tight.
8.0 - 10.0 Clay, sandy, damp, greenish.
10.0 - 15.0 Same, but wetter.
15.0 - 17.0 Same, but tighter. Sample depth may be
at lower altitude than river surface.
SAMPLE: 10 ft.
2 0 5.0 Black, organic topsoil.
5.0 -11.5 Gray cinder ash, glass, etc., getting
wet at about 10 ft.
11.5 - 16.5 Same.
16.5 - 21.5 No return.
SAMPLE: 10 ft.
3 0-1.5 Light gray cinder ash.
1.5 - 8.0 Dark brown dirt, dry, changing to
dark gray at about 6 ft.
8.0 - 11.5 Clay, tan to dirty yellow, damp.
SAMPLE: 8 ft.
Note.—Drill was moved several times
to miss rock fill.
4 No drilling log was obtained, only a sample
from 11.5-ft depth. A considerable amount of
the waste fill was removed and redeposited at
Tifft Farms. The area once occupied by the
fill is now covered by additions to the muni-
cipal waste-treatment facilities. Well 4 was
drilled at the southern edge of the additions
(southern edge of the removal area).
5 0-1.5 Black soil, fill, rocky.
1.5 - 6.5 Whitish rocky fill material.
6.5 - 11.5 Brown, wet, rocky fill into wet green clay.
SAMPLE: 7.5 ft.
6 0-1.5 Fill.
1.5 - 6.5 Black oily soil, fill, smells wet.
6.5 - 11.5 Black, sandy, clay, oily, water.
11.5 - 16.5 Black, sandy, clay, oily, water.
SAMPLE: 16 ft.
7 0-1.5 Brown topsoil, rocky fill.
1.5 - 6.5 Loose soil, black to red clay, 1 in thick.
6.5 - 11.5 Green sandy clay, wet.
SAMPLE: 11 ft.
8 0-1.5 Road fill.
1.5 - 6.5 Fill, rubble.
6.5 - 11.5 Red clay, wet, tight.
11.5 - 16.5 Green, sandy, clay.
SAMPLE: 16 ft.
146
-------
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered at approximately the
same altitude as the water surface in the Niagara River and the Black Rock
Canal. The direction of ground-water flow would be toward these water bodies.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a substrate sample
from each test boring for chromium, copper, iron, and organic-compound analysis;
results are given in table A-20. The substrate samples had higher concentra-
tions of chromium and copper than soil samples from undisturbed areas. The
samples contained 17 organic priority pollutants; the highest concentration
among these compounds (fluoranthene) was 330 yg/kg; 25 organic nonpriority
pollutants and some unknown hydrocarbons were also found.
Table A-20.—Analyses of substrate samples from Squaw Island, site 203, Buffalo, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. A-18. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates it
was found but below the quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate
not analyzed.]
First sampling (07-29-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
12 34
(10.0) (10.0) (8.0) (11.5)
Inorganic constituents
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Molecular sulfur
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Fluoranthene
Bis(2-ethylhexl) phthalate
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene
Pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
1,1-Ethanediol, diacetate^
4-Methyl-2-pentanone^
2-Butanone *
2-Methylheptane1
2,3,4-Trimethyl hexane1
***
8,000
17,000
6,400,000
LT
20,000tt
l,700,000tt
15,000,000
***
***
330
LT
LT
LT
1,100
2,300
4,800
640
780
420
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
Tt Exceeds concentrations in samples from undisturbed areas in Buffalo area.
Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
* Compounds detected but not quantified—Holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
*** Inadequate sample. No analyses performed.
147
-------
Table A-20.—Analyses of substrate samples from Squaw Island, site 203, Buffalo, N.Y.
N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-18. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates it
was found but below the quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate
not analyzed.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
First sampling (07-29-82) 10.0 10.0 8.0 11.5
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
2,6-Dimethylheptane1 1,100 750
1,3,5-Cycloheptatriene1 330
3-Methylheptane1 370
2,2'-[methylenebis(oxy)]-
bis propane1 380
3-Methyl-l-pentanol1 LT
2-Methyl-2-propy1-1,3-
dioxylane * 680 —
2-Methyl-2-hexanol1 340
2,3,3,4-Tetramethylpentane1 — 1,500
1,2-Dimethylbenzene^ — 800
1,4-Dimethylbenzene1 — LT
Propyl benzene * — 580
l-Ethyl-2-methylbenzene1 — 820
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene — 420
2-Methyl-l-heptene1 — LT
3-Ethyl-hexane1 — 370
4-Penten-2-one1 — LT
2,2,3-Trimethylbutane1 — 460
l-Methyl-4-propylbenzene1 — LT
2-Chloro-l-phenyl-ethanone1 — LT
2,4,4-Trimethylhexane1 — 350
2-Chloronaphthalene1 — LT
l-Methyl-7-(l-Methylethyl)-
phenanthrene1 — LT
5-Ethyl-S-propylundecane1 — LT
2-Cyclohexen-l-one1 430
3-Methyl-2-pentanonel — 1,100
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
56 78
(7.5) (16.0) (11.0) (16.0)
Inorganic constituents
Chromium 5,000 9,000 10,000 4,000
Copper 69.000TT 37,000 550,000tt 12,000
Iron 56,000,000 74,000,000 79,000,000 72,000,000
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Pyrene 730 —
148
-------
Table A-20.—Analyses of substrate samples from Squaw Island, site 203, Buffalo,
N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-18. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates it
was found but below the quantifiable detection limit, blanks indicate
not analyzed.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
5678
First sampling (07-29-82) (7.5) (16.0) (11.0) (16.0)
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants
5-Methyl nonane1 — — 420
2,2,5-Triraethyl-3,4-
hexanedione1 — — 500
2H-pyran-2-one1 — — 570
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
Second sampling (05-18-83) (12.0) (14.0)
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur1 810 270
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene — 6.0
Acenaphthene * *
Fluoranthene * *
Naphthalene * *
Bis(2-ethylhexl) phthalate — *
Di-n-butyl phthalate — *
Di-n-octyl phthalate — *
Benzo(a)anthracene * *
Benzo(a)pyrene * *
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene * *
Chrysene * *
Acenaphthalene * *
Fluorene * *
Phenanthrene *
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene * *
Indenod ,2,3-cd)pyrene * *
Pyrene * *
Nonpriority pollutants
Benzoic acid — *
4-Methylphenol * —
Dibenzofuran * *
2-Methylnaphthalene * *
3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2- *
(4,18,12-trimethyl)-2H-l-
benzopyren-1-ol1 * —
Unknown hydrocarbons1 * *
149
-------
206. TIFFT FARM (Literature review) NYSDEC 915072
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Tifft Farm site,
in the southwestern part of the city of Buffalo, was a disposal site for
material hauled from Squaw Island (site 203, pi. 2) during the mid-1970's. The
site was designed with clay barrier walls and base and a leachate-collection
system. The site was capped with a clay seal and has been incorporated into a
nature preserve. Subsurface investigations were not included as a part of this
site-assessment program.
216. ERIE BASIN MARINA (Literature review) NYSDEC 915013
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Erie Basin
Marina is on Lake Erie at the mouth of the Buffalo River in the city of
Buffalo. Construction of the site began in 1972 and was completed in the
mid-1970's. The fill is reported to consist of 90 percent slag from a steel
corporation and 10 percent construction and demolition material from area
buildings that were being torn down. The site is in direct hydraulic contact
with the Buffalo River and Lake Erie; thus contaminant migration would be
likely. No hazardous waste is reported to be deposited at the site. The poten-
tial for contaminant migration from the site is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site is a manmade area built out into the water.
It consists of a slag and hard fill base overlain by imported soil and
underlain by lake deposits.
Hydrologic information.—The fill material is in direct contact with Lake
Erie; thus any ground water at the site would mix directly with lake water.
All surface runoff would also flow directly into the Buffalo River or Lake
Erie.
Chemical information.—No evidence of hazardous waste was found; therefore, no
water or soil analyses were made.
217. DONNER HANNA COKE COMPANY (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915017
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Donner Hanna Coke
Company, in the southern part of the city of Buffalo, was a disposal area for
ammonium sulfate and water-treatment-plant solids. The site is now used for
coke storage.
The potential for vertical migration of contaminants is probably minimal
because an extensive clay unit underlies the site. The geologic cores and
results of an electromagnetic survey indicate the area of fill to be larger than
visual inspection of the site would indicate. All samples were taken within the
disposal area; thus, more data would be needed to determine the potential for
horizontal migration offsite. The potential is indeterminable at present.
150
-------
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings in
August 1982.Locations are shown in fig. A-19; the geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 4.0 Black coke, fill material.
4.0 - 5.0 Clay, dark olive green, wet.
5.0 - 10.0 Clay, tan to yellowish, dry, tight,
getting wet at about R ft and sandy.
SAMPLE: 5 ft.
2 0-3.5 Topsoil and rubble, debris.
3.5 - 6.0 Clay, sandy, gray-green, "soupy",
becomes drier and tighter at 4.0.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
3 0-2.5 Topsoil and coke debris, black.
2.5 - 5.0 Asphaltic-looking, watery material
with gravel. Volatile sensing meter
reading of 20 (2.5 background) Meter
setting of 9 - calibrated for benzene.
smells less asphaltic than in first hole.
5.0 - 6.0 Clay, gray, green.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
4 0 - 3.0 Coke bed material, bricks, wood, etc.
3.0 - 5.0 Sand, black, very coarse, damp.
5.0 - 6.0 Soupy, black material. Sample would
not burn.
6.0 - 6.5 Clay, greenish, wetter than in other
holes.
SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—The test borings indicate a zone of ground water at 4
to 6 ft below land surface. This ground-water zone may be perched, as suggested
by the second well log.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a substrate sample
from each test boring for cyanide, iron, and organic compound analyses; results
are given in table A-21. The samples revealed no cyanide but contained 21 orga-
nic priority pollutants, 18 organic nonpriority pollutants, and some unknown
hydrocarbons.
Electromagnetic survey information.—The U.S. Geological Survey conducted an
electromagnetic survey in November 1982; results are shown in figure A-20. The
line both begins and ends in a wetland. The conductivity values recorded within
the wetland, as well as those outside the wetland, show high readings of conduc-
tivity that possibly indicate buried waste (fig. A-20). The pattern of readings
around the 420-ft mark would normally be considered evidence of buried metal but
here may reflect remnants of a large coke pile that once occupied the area (fig.
A-20). (Coke, a form of carbon, has a conductivity similar to that of metal.)
151
-------
a
CONDUCTIVITY, IN MILLIMHOS PER METER
Ln
ro
i-j
-------
Table A-21.—Analyses of substrate samples from Donner Hanna Coke, site 217,
Buffalo, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. A-19. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
First sampling (08-05-82) (5.0) (3.5) (3.5) (5.5)
Inorganic constituents
Cyanide — — — —
Iron 8,100,000 5,000,000 5,200,000 2,400,000
Sample number (depths are same as in first sampling)
Second sampling (05-18-83) 1A 2A 3A 4A
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur1 27,000 680
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene 14.0 18.5 37.8 51.8
Ethylbenzene — — 3.8 —
Toluene 2.5 — 21.6
2,4-Dimethylphenol — * — —
Phenol — * — —
Acenaphthene — * * *
Fluoranthene * * * *
1,2-Dichlorobenzene — *
Naphthalene * * * *
Benzo(a)anthracene — * * *
Benzo(a)pyrene — * * *
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene * * * *
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified—Holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
153
-------
Table A-21.—Analyses of substrate samples from Donner Hanna Coke, site 217,
Buffalo, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-19. Concentrations are in pg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number (depths are same as first sampling)
Second sampling (continued) 1A 2A 3A 4A
Organic Compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Chrysene
Acenaphthylene
Anthracene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene
IndenoQ ,2,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene *
Nonpriority pollutants
Acetone 399
Carbon disulfide —
2-Hexanone
0-xylene 3.7
2-Methylphenol
4-Methylphenol
Dibenzofuran
2-Methylnaphthalene
gH-Carbazole1
3-Methylphenanthrene1
Hexadecanoic acid1 —
1-MethyIpyrene1
Trichlorofluoromethane1 —
Methy1eyelohexane1
4-Methyl-2-pentanone1
2,6,6-Trimethyl-
bicycloO.l.l)-
hepten-2-ene1
1,3- and 1,4-Dimethyl-
benzene1
l-Ethenyl-2-methylbenzene1
Unknown hydrocarbons1
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
346
5.7
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
83.7
41.5
69.8
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
*
4.7
154
-------
219. HARTWELL STREET LANDFILL (Literature review) NYSDEC 915030
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—This landfill, at the
west end of Hartwell Street in the northern part of the city of Buffalo, con-
tains earth fill, wood pallets, pieces of trucks, metal products, and construc-
tion and demolition debris. No evidence of hazardous waste has been reported.
The potential of contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—No data are available. The overburden is estimated to be
60 to be 80 ft thick.
Hydrologic information.—No data are available. No surface water or wetlands
are within a mile of the site.
Chemical information.—NYSDEC, Region 9, inspected this site on March 29, 1982,
and collected water and soil samples from three locations—ponded water on the
east side of the landfill, ponded water on the west side near the Atlas Steel
Company property (see pi. 1), and from a sump in the basement of a house adja-
cent to the landfill. The latter two samples contained lead in excess of USEPA
drinking-water criteria and the New York State standard for ground water as well
as detectable concentrations of chromium, copper, zinc, and total organic car-
bon. The substrate samples contained relatively high amounts of copper, nickel,
and zinc, and detectable amounts of chromium, lead, and silver.
220. WEST SENECA TRANSFER STATION (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915039
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The West Seneca
Transfer Station site, in the town of West Seneca, was used during 1930-70 for
the disposal of municipal refuse. The site also contained an incinerator faci-
lity, which was replaced in 1970 by a solid waste-transfer station that is still
in operation.
Although the site is adjacent to the Buffalo River, the potential for hori-
zontal and vertical migration could not be evaluated. The potential for con-
taminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site contains about 20 ft of fill and refuse
underlain by a layer of sand, silt, and clay overlying shale bedrock. The shale
is approximately 40 ft below land surface.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings in August 1982; the
locations are shown in fig. A-21. The geologic logs are on p. 156.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was found between 6.5 and 11.5 ft below
land surface. The land surface is approximately 590 ft above NGVD; thus the
water-table altitude ranges from 580 to 585 ft above NGVD.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected a soil sample from each
test boring for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, mercury, nickel,
and organic compound analysis; results are shown in table A-22. A duplicate
sample was taken from boring 3. The substrate sample contained elevated con-
centrations of copper and lead. Copper in sample 2 exceeded heavy-metal con-
centrations in soil samples from undisturbed areas.
155
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 1.5 Dirt, fill, rocky.
1.5 - 6.5 Fill, black, smelly.
6.5 - 11.5 Fill, black, smelly, wet.
11.5 - 16.5 Fill, black, wet, smelly.
16.5 - 21.5 Gray clay, wet, gravel.
SAMPLE: wet gray clay at 21.5 ft.
2 0 - 1.5 Black fill, dirt and rocks.
1.5 - 6.5 Black fill, fine, green, wet.
6.5 - 11.5 Wet black fill, dirt, fine, green.
11.5 - 16.5 Same as above, with gravel.
16.5 - 21.5 Wet gray clay.
SAMPLE: 21.5 ft.
- 1.5 Brown dirt, topsoil.
5 - 6.5 Brown dirt, loose to gray clay, wet,
black to brown dirt.
6.5 - 11.5 Brown, sandy dirt with gravel.
11.5 - 16.5 Same as above.
SAMPLE: 16.5 ft.
0 - 1.5 Dirt, fill, very rocky.
1.5 - 6.5 Gray clay to brown wet sand.
6.5 Wet brown sand.
SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
0
1.
Table A-22.—Analyses of substrate samples from West Seneca Transfer Station,
Buffalo, N.Y., August 26, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. A-21. Concentrations are in ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found.)
»
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Organic compounds
Sample
1
(21.5)
1,000
1,000
5,000
20,000
8,100,000 7
20,000
—
10,000
—
number and
2
(21.5)
1,000
1,000
5,000
Sl.OOOtt
,200,000
70,000
—
10,000
—
depth below
3
(16.5)
—
4,000
9,000
3,000,000 (1
10,000
—
—
—
land surface
(Split)
(--)
(-- )
(4,000)
(5,000)
,700,000) 1
(--)
(--)
(--)
(--)
(ft)
4
(6.5)
—
—
1,000
—
,200,000
—
—
—
—
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Buffalo area. Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
156
-------
78° 47'42'
42°
52'
Buffalo
Solid waste
transfer station
X
• 2 »3
River
Fence
D
n
•4
EXPLANATION
3 Test boring and
substrate sample
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-21. Location of sampling holes at West Seneca
Transfer Station, site 220, West Seneca.
241. TIMES BEACH CONTAINMENT SITE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915080
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—This site is a 46-acre
strip of land with a 1,600-ft by 400-ft pond in the city of Buffalo along Lake
Erie. The site was used during 1971-76 for disposal of dredge spoils from the
Buffalo River, Buffalo Harbor, and the Black Rock Canal (fig. A-22). It was
abandoned in 1976 with 20 acres of open water left. Approximately 550,000
yd3 of dredged material was deposited on the site.
During 1983, the U.S. Geological Survey maintained a surface-water-stage
gaging station at the site and obtained 15-min interval stage records for both
Lake Erie and the containment pond. Summaries of hourly lake stages were
obtained from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Agency and were plotted
against hourly values of pond stage. Results indicate that, in the absence of
major abrupt changes, the pond stage fluctuates with the lake stage but with a
lag of about 1 hour. The lake and pond stages fluctuated as much as 2.5 ft, but
normal daily fluctuations ranged from 0.3 to 0.4 ft. Seasonal fluctuations were
not greater than the diurnal fluctuations. At regular 6-hour periods, the lake
stage rises faster and remains higher than the pond stage, which causes inflow
157
-------
to the pond. When the lake stage falls, it recedes more rapidly than the pond
stage, which causes water to flow from the pond to the lake for extended
periods. Rates of outflow from the pond are slower than inflow rates; the
average outflow rate calculated by the U.S. Geological Survey was 2.5 Mgal/d.
The rate is seldom less than 1 Mgal/d and may exceed 10 Mgal/d. Under low-wind
conditions, the diurnal fluctuations alone could probahly cause a complete
exchange of pond water every 2 weeks.
The barrier does not seem to prevent water from entering or leaving the
pond; thus any leachate produced within the site would readily enter Lake Erie
and Buffalo Harbor. This site therefore has a major potential for contaminant
migration. Additional water-quality monitoring would be needed to define the
rate of contaminant migration.
Geologic information.—The dredged sediments on the area consist of sand, silt,
and clay. The underlying bedrock is Onondaga Limestone overlain by natural lake
deposits of silt and clay.
Hydrologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey installed three monitoring
wells in the area in 1982 (fig. A-22). The well data and geologic logs are
given on p. 159.
Access to the wells is obtained from Fuhrman Avenue across from fire
hydrant 6, 1.5 mi south of Coast Guard station entrance (fig. A-22).
The 12-ft well is 150 ft from Fuhrman Boulevard; the R-ft well is 240 ft
from the 12-ft well; and the 4-ft well is 180 ft from the 8-ft well. All wells
emitted a strong petroleum odor, and an oily film was seen on water surface in
each.
78° 53'
42°
52'
30'
OOP s"os
OO(
Fire hydrant number Q
Coast Guard
EXPLANATION
)1 Monitoring well. Number is well depth,
in feet below land surface
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-22. Location of monitoring wells at Times Beach
disposal site, site 241, along Lake Erie, Buffalo.
158
-------
Well no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.0 Organic muck. Depth to water surface
approximately 0.5 ft.
1 - 4.0 Sandy-silty loam. Entire well was augered.
2 0-8.0 Surface layer of organic muck. Became
sandier with depth. Depth to water surface
0.5 ft to 1 ft. Entire well was augered.
3 0-12.0 Surface layer of organic muck. Became
sandier with depth. Well was augered to
about 8 ft below land surface into sandy
loam. Because of slumping, well was driven
the remaining 4 ft of depth. Depth to water
approximately 1 ft. Light gray material at
7 ft below land surface.
Chemical information.—In the summer of 1981, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
collected 16 sediment samples from the site and analyzed them for selected metals
and organic compounds; results are given in table A-23 and A-24, respectively.
In January 1983, the U.S. Geological Survey collected samples from the
three monitoring wells and the containment pond for priority-pollutant analysis;
results are given in table A-25. The samples were from dredge spoils and there-
fore were not compared to State and Federal standards. The samples contained 19
organic priority pollutants; benzene exceeded the New York State standard in all
three wells. Also 10 organic nonpriority pollutants and 5 organic compounds
potentially of natural origin were found.
Table A-23.—Range and mean concentration of selected metals in 16 sediment
samples from Times Beach containment site, site 241, Buffalo, N.Y.1
[Concentrations are in pg/kg. Dashes indicate that values were
not calculated.]
Method of extraction
Inorganic
constituents
Zinc
Cadmium
Copper
Iron
Manganese
Arsenic
Mercury
Nickel
Chromium
Lead
Mini-
mum
1,031,000
10,900
238,000
54,000
619,000
2,000
2,900
49,000
302,000
156,000
HNO^
Maxi-
mum
1,845,000
13,300
269,000
74,000
723,000
58,900
9,400
63,000
393,000
1,037,000
Mean
1,283,000
11,900
251,000
64,000
694,000
22,700
4,800
55,000
332,000
497,000
Mini-
mum
84,000
500
10,000
810
77,000
90
<50
4,200
350
82,000
DPTA
Maxi-
mum
202,000
3,000
33,000
1,070
114,000
290
—
7,000
470
421,000
Mean
150,000
1,760
21,400
940
91,000
170
—
5,300
400
191,000
Data from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
159
-------
Table A-24-.—Analyses of 16 sediment samples from Time Beach containment
site, site 241, Buffalo, N.Y.1
[Concentrations are in pg/kg.]
Organic compounds
Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
PCB (Aroclor 1242)
PCB (Aroclor 1254)
Aniline
1-amino/napthalene
N-benzyl-N-ethyl /aniline
4-(dimethyl/amino)benzophenone
4,4-methylene bis ,(N,N-dimethyl/aniline)
N, N, N' , N'-tetramethylbenzidine
p, p'-benzylidene bis (N,N-dimethyl/aniline)
benzo-(a)-pyrene
Chlordane
Toxaphene
Dimethyl phthalate
Diethyl phthalate
Dibutyl phthalate
Benzylbutyl phthalate
Lindane
Heptaclor
Aldrin
p, p'-DDE
Dieldrin
Endrin
p, p'-DDD
p, p'-DDT
Methoxyclor
Mirex
Phenol
1 ,2-dichlorobenzene
1 ,3-dichlorobenzene
1 ,4-dichlorobenzene
Naphthalene
Phenanthrene
Anthracene
Fluoranthene
Pyrene
Benzo/ ( a) / anthracene
Chrysene
Mini-
mum
1,500
420
620
1,700
1,700
2,400
<100
540
<100
2,600
20,000
<200
<200
<200
<200
<200
<200
<100
<100
<100
<100
<100
<100
<100
<100
<100
<100
<1,700
830
1,200
8,000
11,000
10,000
7,000
10,000
9,800
6,200
7,200
Maxi-
mum
5,500
1,000
2,500
2,800
4,100
7,000
1,400
4,700
96,000
9,800
9,500
22,000
20,000
15,000
13,000
24,000
27,000
23,000
26,000
Mean
3,000
750
1 ,500
2,300
2,700
4,500
930
3,300
39,000
3,500
3,QOO
12,000
14,000
13,000
9,700
17,000
17,000
12,000
14,000
1 Data from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
160
-------
Table A-25.—Analyses of water samples from Times Beach Containment Site, site 241,
Buffalo, N.Y., January 11, 1983.
[Locations shown in fig. A-22. Concentrations are in ug/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
PH
Specific conductance
Sample
1
(4)
6.8
1,750
number and depth
Ground water
2
(8)
7.1
2,100
below
3
(12)
land surface (ft)
Surface water
4
(0.5)
7.4
485
(pmho/cm at 15°C)
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum 3,130 2,500 95,800 30,500
Antimony 24t — — 311
Arsenic 66t 106t 30 115t
Barium 187t 280t 2,320t 331t
Beryllium — —
Boron — — — —
Cadmium 7.8 5.8 17t 39t
Chromium 10 It 72t 496T 758t
Cobalt — — 220
Copper 102 64 l,250t 912
Iron 60,700t 30,900t 63,600t 130,000t
Lead 239t 195t 3,560t 2,020t
Manganese 3,020t 496t 19,200t 2,930t
Mercury 0.96t — — —
Nickel — — 659 129
Selenium — —
Silver
Thallium
Tin ~ — — 66
Vanadium — — — —
Zinc 18,200t 4,100 761,000t 3,340
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
Chlorobenzene
Ethylbenzene
Toluene
Acetone
370T
4,600
25
15
—
42t
360
18
—
—
35 1
270
46
7.7
LT
—
LT
—
—
—
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
T Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
161
-------
Table A-25.—Analyses of water samples from Times Beach Containment Site, site 241,
Buffalo, N.Y., January 11, 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-22. Concentrations are in yg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Ground water Surface water
1
(4)
2
(8)
3
(12)
4
(0.5)
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
2-Chlorophenol 39
1,2-dichlorobenzene — — 230
1,3-dichlorobenzene — — 22
1,4-dichlorobenzene 49 — 120
1,2,4-trichlorobenzene — — 77
N-nitrosodiphenylamine 48 — 24 38
Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate 30 — 81
Aniline 35
4-Chloroaniline 430
Naphthalene — — 100
Benzo(b)f luoranthene — — — LT
Benzo(k)f luoranthene — — — LT
Chrysene — — — LT
Anthracene — — — LT
Nonpriority pollutants
0-xylene 32 LT
F luoranthene — — — 9.2
Methylcyclopentane1 180 74 64
Hexane 2,500 1,100 1,000
4-Ethyl-2-methylhexane1 — 40
4-Methylbenzeneamine* 470 — —
2-Chlorobenzeneamine1 300 — 53
3-Ethyl-S-methylpyridine1 110
2,4-Dimethylheptane1 — 33
1,3-Dimethylbenzene1 — 6.8
3-Hexanone1 — — 35
2-Hexanone1 — — 35
3-Hexanol1 ~ ~ 23
2-Hexanol1 ~ ~ 37
1-Hexanol1 — — 12
162
-------
249. ALLIED CHEMICAL (HURWITZ-RANNE) HOPKINS STREET
(USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915120
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Hopkins Street site,
in the southern part of the city of Buffalo, consists of two parcels of land
having different owners. Site information indicates that neither area was used
for disposal or lagooning, but NYSDEC received information that burial trenches
had been operated on both areas.
Geologic data indicate a limited potential for contaminant migration from
the northern property. Vertical migration of contaminants on the southern prop-
erty is unlikely because the site is underlain by clay. Organic priority pollu-
tants and a high chromium concentration suggest a possibility of contaminant
migration, but the potential is indeterminable at this time.
Geologic information.—The two sites consist of 3 to 4 ft of fill and debris
underlain by extensive clay. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled six test holes
in August 1982 and another six in May 1983. Locations are shown in figure A-23.
The geologic logs are as follows:
78' 49'53'
I 1
42°
50'
09'
Manila St
Northern disposal site
EXPLANATION
Test boring and
substrate sample
Southern disposal site
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-23. Location of sampling holes at Allied Chemical,
Hurwitz-Ranne Hopkins Street, site 249, Buffalo,
163
-------
South Property
Boring no.
1
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 3.5
3.5 - 4.0
0
3.0 -
0
2.5 -
3.0
5.0
2.5
3.0
Depth (ft)
0
2.5 -
3.0 -
0
4.0 -
5.0 -
0
3.0 -
3.5 -
4.5 -
2.5
3.0
4.0
4.0
5.0
6.5
3.0
3.5
4.5
6.5
Description
Topsoil, dark brown.
Clay, sand, with oily fluid.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
Fill, slag.
Clay, dark green to yellow, wet,
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
Topsoil, gray, gravel, turning.
green at 1.0 ft.
Clay, greenish, gray,
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
North Property
Description
Topsoil and fill.
Clay, green, tight.
Clay, greenish-gray, wet.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
Fill, debris.
Clay, green, wet.
Clay, yellow, wet.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
Fill, debris, black.
Hard zone, rock, and gravel.
Clay, green, wet.
Clay, yellow.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Test-boring data indicate a perched water table within
the clay unit 3 to 4 ft below land surface. The altitude of this water table is
approximately 580 ft above NOVD.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample from
each test boring for chromium, iron, and organic compound analysis; results are
given in table A-26. The samples contained 28 organic priority pollutants. The
Erie County Department of Environment and Planning sampled the site; PCB's were
detected in surface soils.
164
-------
Table A-26.—Analyses of substrate samples from Allied Chemical (Hurwitz-Ranne),
site 249, Hopkins Street, Buffalo, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. A-23. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
North Property
First sampling (8-11-82)
1
(3.0)
2
(4.0)
3
(3.5)
Inorganic constituents
Chromium
Iron
30,000 180,000tt 340,000tt
10,000,000 28,000,000 29,000,000
South Property
1
(3.5)
Duplicate
sample
2
(4.0)
3
(2.5)
Chromium
Iron
30,000 (20,000) 180,000tt 3,000
10,000,000 (10,000,000) 21,000,000 3,700,000
Second sampling (5-18-83) 1A
Sample number (depths are same as in first sampling)
North Property South Property
2A
3A
1A
2A
3A
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
Methylene chloride
Toluene
Heptachlor
2,4-Dimethylphenol
Phenol
Pentachlorophenol
Acenaphthene
1,2-Diphenylhydrazine
as azobenzene
Fluoranthene
LT
19.1**
314**
22.6
538
LT
LT
3.4
27.9
313
2.8
10.6
*
*
* **
* **
A
*
*
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
Tt Exceeds concentrations in samples from undisturbed soils in the Buffalo
area. Undisturbed soils were not analyzed for iron.
* Compounds detected but not quantified—Holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
165
-------
Table A-26.—Analyses of substrate samples from Allied Chemical (Hurwitz-Ranne),
site 249, Hopkins Street, Buffalo, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-23. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample
North
Second sampling (continued) 1A
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Naphthalene *
Bis(2-ethylhexl)
phthalate *
Di-n-butyl/phthalate *
Diethyl/phthalate *
Di-n-octyl /phthalate
Benzo(a)anthracene *
Benzo(a)pyrene *
Benzo(b)f luoranthene and
benzo(k)f luoranthene *
Chrysene *
Acenaphthylene *
Anthracene —
Benzo(ghi)perylene *
Fluorene —
Phenanthrene
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene *
Indeno( 1 ,2,3-cd)pyrene *
Pyrene —
N-nitrosodiphenyl-
amine —
Nonpriority pollutants
number (depths
Property
2A 3A
* *
— —
A AA A
* AA *
A AA A
* AA A
A AA A
A A
A AA A
A A
A AA A
A AA A
A AA A
are same as
South
1A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
in first
Property
2A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
sampling)
3A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Acetone -- 328** 696
2-Butanone —
Carbon disulfide —
0-xylene —
4-Methylphenol —
Dibenzofuran *
2-Methylnaphthalene *
2-Hexanone —
4-Methyl— 2-pentanone —
Tetrahydrofuran1
3,2,1-Bicyclooctane1
2-Methylphenol —
Cis-octahydropentelene1 —
Cis-1 ,2-dimethylcyclo-
hexane —
Ethylcyclohexane1 —
2,6,6-Trimethyl-(3.1.1)
bicyclo-hept-2-ene1
165
55.5** 100
31.2**
—
A A
A A
A A
A
A
A
A
*
13.4
—
A
A
A
__
A
121
—
A
A
A
A
A
A
__
A
A
A
A
A
166
-------
Table A-26.—Analyses of substrate samples from Allied Chemical (Hurwitz-Ranne),
site 249, Hopkins Street, Buffalo, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-23. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found hut below the quantifiable detection limit.1
Sample number (depths
North Property
Second sampling (continued) 1A 2A 3A
are same as in first sampling)
South Property
1A 2A
3A
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
6,6-Dimethyl-2-
methylene-bicyclo-
(3.1.0-heptane1
1, 2,3-Trimethycyclo-
hexane — '
2-Methylnaphthalenel — -•
1,8-Dimethyl-
naphthalene1
Carbazole1 —
3-Methylphenanthrene1
9-Methylphenanthrene1 —
2-Phenylnaphthalene1 — -
l-Methylpyrenel
7-Methyl-benzo(a)-
anthracene1 — -•
*
*
*
*
*
*
253. SMALL BOAT HARBOR CONTAINMENT SITE (USOS field reconnaissance)
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—This site lies along
Lake Erie south of the Small Boat Harbor in the city of Buffalo and is operated
by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority. The site was used for dispo-
sal of dredge spoils from the Buffalo River, Buffalo Harbor, and the Black Rock
Canal (fig. A-24). This site was the first of three containment sites
constructed and was a prototype for other containment sites—Times Beach (site
241) and Buffalo Harbor (site 254).
If the barrier is similar to the one at the Times Beach containment site
(site 241), it would not prevent water from entering or leaving the site, and
any leachate produced within the site would readily enter Buffalo Harbor.
Therefore, this site has potential for contaminant migration. Additional water-
quality monitoring would be needed to define the rate of contaminant migration.
Geologic information.—The dredged sediments on the area consist of sand, silt,
and clay. The underlying bedrock is Onondaga Limestone overlain by natural lake
deposits of silt and clay.
Hydrologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey installed three monitoring
wells in the area in 1982. The well data and geologic logs are as follows:
167
-------
Well no. Depth _(_f_tj_ Description
1 0-4.0 Organic clays. Depth to water surface
less than 0.5 ft. Sandier at depth. Entire
well was augered.
2 0-8.0 Organic clays and fine silts. Became sandier
with depth. Coarse, granular material at
about 3.5 ft. Depth to water surface about
5 ft (sandy loam). Entire well was augered.
3 0-12.0 Organic clays and fine silts through entire
depth. Well approximately 2 ft below lake
level, however, well yielded little water.
Entire well was augered.
Well 1 is in the northwest corner of the site, approximately 150 ft south of
the northern dike and 100 ft east of western dike. Well 2 is in the northeast
corner of the site, 50 ft south of the billboard and 170 ft west of the road.
Well 3 is in the east-central part of the site, 6 ft south of the double
billboard and 50 ft west of the road.
All wells emitted a strong petroleum odor, and an oily film was seen on
water surface in each. Vegetation around well 1 was dying.
Chemical information. — In January 1983, the U.S. Geological Survey collected
samples from the three monitoring wells and the containment pond for USEPA
priority-pollutant analysis; results are given in table A-27. These samples
are dredge spoils and therefore were not compared to State and Federal criteria,
The samples also contained 16 organic nonpriority pollutants and two organic
compounds potentially of natural origin.
78° 51 '50'
42°
50'
45'
Small boat harbor
Single billboard
I I I I I I I I I II I I I I I I I i l\l i | | | |
\ Fuhrman Blvd /
/-
Double billboard
™^
01
02 ^^
^^\ ^ ~ ">" •»
/- S
f C Wooded area I ^
EXPLANATION
Q1 Monitoring well. Number is well depth,
in feet below land surface
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-24. Location of monitoring wells at Small Boat Harbor
Containment Site, site 253 f along Lake Erie, Buffalo.
168
-------
Table A-27.--Analyses of water samples from Small Boat Harbor Containment Site,
site 253, Buffalo, N.Y., January 11, 1983.
[Locations shown in fig. A-24. Concentrations are in pg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
PH
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
1
(4)
6.9
3,200
Ground water
2 3
(8) (12)
6.9
2,900
Surface water
4
(0.5)
7.4
400
Inorganic constituents
Priority pollutants
Aluminum
Antimony
Arsenic
Barium
Beryllium
Boron
Cadmium
Chromium
Cobalt
Copper
Iron
Lead
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Thallium
Tin
Vanadium
Zinc
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
Chlorobenzene
Toluene
Ethylbenzene
6,320
21t
83t
268t
14t
2381
214
79,800t
89 31
3.430T
84
48
12,500t
19t
2,200
LT
2,470
21t
I48t
374
3.4
30
12,400t
441
2,220t
2,280
28t
143t
32t
99t
69
116,000t
135t
4,630t
0.90t
59
234
4Q7t
2,810
LTt
14
18,lOOt
46t
290
11
14
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concen-
tration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an internal
standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts,
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or the New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground
water.
169
-------
Table A-27.—Analyses of water samples from Small Boat Harbor Containment Site,
site 253, Buffalo, N.Y., January 11, 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-24. Concentrations are in yg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number
Ground water Surface water
1
234
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
1,3-dichlorobenzene LT — 62
N-nitrosodiphenylamine 46t — 25t
1,4-dichlorobenzene — 26 —
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate — LT LT
Di-n-octyl phthalate — — — LT
Nonpriority pollutants
0-xylene LT — 18
2-Methylbutane1 2.8
Methylcyclopentane1 15 — 15
Hexane1 41 — —
1,3-Dimethyl-cis-
cyclopentane1 7.4 —
1,1,3-Trimethylcyclo-
pentane1 8.4 —
2-Chlorobenzeneamine1 10 — — —
2,4-Dimethylheptane1 — 37 8.0
3,5-Diroethylheptane1 — 38 9.8
Cyclohexane1 — — 8.3 1,600
Methylcyclohexane1 — — 41
1-Nonanol1 — — 9.0
l-Chloro-2-methylbenzene1 — — 13
2-Chlorobenzeneamlne1 — — 21 —
4-Fluorobenzeneamine1 — — — 32
Compounds potentially of natural origin
Tin H£»P ^ITI (* ——
— 18 —
Eicosane1 — — LI '—
254. BUFFALO HARBOR CONTAINMENT SITE (USGS field reconnaissance)
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—This site, on Lake
Erie near the Bethlehem Steel Plant in the city of Lackawanna, at the intersec-
tion of Route 5 and Ridge Road (pi. 1), was used for disposal of dredge spoils
from the Buffalo River, Buffalo Harbor, and the Black Rock Canal (fig. A-25).
If the barrier here is similar to that at Times Beach containment site (site
241), it would not prevent water from entering or leaving the site, and any
leachate produced within the site would readily enter Lake Erie and the Buffalo
170
-------
Harbor waters. Therefore, this site has a major potential for contaminant
migration. Additional monitoring would he needed to define the rate of con-
taminant migration.
Geologic information.—The dredged sediments on the area consist of sand, silt,
and clay. The underlying bedrock is Onondaga Limestone overlain by natural lake
deposits of silt and clay.
Hydrologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey installed three monitoring
wells in the area in 1982 (fig. A-25); the well data and geologic logs are given
on p. 172. The wells form an east-west line, approximately 100 ft south of the
dredge pipe on the east side of the containment area.
Chemical information.—In January 1983, the U.S. Geological Survey sampled the
three monitoring wells and the containment pond for USEPA priority pollutant
analysis; results are given in table A-28. The samples are dredge spoils and
therefore were not compared to State and Federal criteria. The samples con-
tained eight organic priority pollutants, several organic nonpriority pollu-
tants, and one organic compound that may be of natural origin.
78° 52'05'
1
Boat slip
Light house
Dredge pipe.
42°
49'
45'
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Monitoring well. Number is well depth,
in feet below land surface
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure A-25,
Location of monitoring wells at Buffalo Harbor
Containment Site, site 254, on Lake Erie, Lackawanna.
171
-------
Well no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 0.5 Fine sand. Land surface probably less than
2 ft above pond surface.
0.5 - 4.0 Depth to water surface approximately 1.5 ft
below land surface. Entire well augered.
2 0 - 0.5 Fine sand. Land surface less than 4 ft above
pond level.
0.5 - 8.0 Sandy loam. Water surface at 2.5-3.5 ft
below land surface. Augered entire well;
some slumping.
3 0-0.5 Fine sand.
0.5 - 6.5 Sandy loam.
6.5 - 8.0 Hard pack (possibly cemented) black, granular
material much like fly ash. Saturated at
about 8 ft. Well was augered to 8 ft, drove
pipe to 12 ft at about 1 ft/hr.
Table A-28.—Analyses of water samples from the Buffalo Harbor Containment Site,
site 254, Lackawanna, N.Y., January 10, 1983.
[Locations shown in fig. A-25. Concentrations are in Mg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth
PH
Specific conductance (yumho/cm)
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum
Antimony
Arsenic
Barium
Beryllium
Boron
Cadmium
1
(12)
11.5
3,000
5,630
—
—
270t
—
—
—
Ground water
2
(8)
6.2
1,500
4,050
—
15t
219t
—
—
6.7
below land surface (ft)
Surface water
3
(4)
6.8
1,030
5,410
—
36 1
212t
—
—
12T
4
(0.5)
4.3
280
1,680
—
—
—
—
169
—
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or the New York State standard for maximum concentration
in drinking water.
172
-------
Table A-28.—Analyses of water samples from the Buffalo Harbor Containment Site,
site 254, Lackawanna, N.Y., January 10, 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. A-25. Concentrations are in Mg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number
Ground water Surface water
Inorganic constituents (continued)
Chromium 216T 40 51t 19
Cobalt
Copper — — 62
Iron 39,600t 57,200t 82,500t 7,080t
Lead 128T 120T 125T 72t
Manganese 5,240t 2,550t 7,540t 311T
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Thallium
Tin 24 — 52
Vanadium
Zinc 1,200 14,7001 27,900t 124
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene 37t 120t 610T
Chlorobenzene 11 67 250
Toluene 8.3
Fluoranthene 24t
Naphthalene 110
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate 22 LT 38
Acenaphthylene 21t
Phenanthrene 24t
Nonpriority pollutants
o-Xylene — LT 5.6
Methylcyclopentane1 200 — 31
3-Methylpentane1 28
Hexane* 580 — 100
4-Methylbenzeneamine1 16
2-Naphthaleneamine1 17 — —
2,4-Dimethylheptane1 — 21
4-Ethyl-2-methylhexane1 — 9.6
3,5-Dimethylheptane1 — 22
1,3-Dimethylbenzene1 — 5.0
1,2-Dimethylbenzene1 — — — 5.1
l-(2-Butoxyethoxy)-ethanol1 — 230
173
-------
174
-------
APPENDIX B
TONAWANDA AREA SITE DESCRIPTIONS
A total of 60 waste-disposal sites in the Tonawanda area were investigated
to determine the potential for contaminant migration. Twenty-nine were sampled
by the U.S. Geological Survey during its 1982 test-drilling and sampling
program; the remaining 31 were evaluated through a literature review.
Of the 60 sites investigated, 20 were designated as having a major potential
for contaminant migration; the remaining 40 were designated as having an inde-
terminable potential.
The following section describes the location, past and current disposal
practices, and potential for contaminant migration at the 33 sites; it also
includes the geologic, hydrologic, and chemical data. Site locations are shown
on plate 2.
175
-------
6. BUFFALO PUMPS DIVISION (USGS reconnaissance) NYSDEC 932044
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Buffalo Pumps
Division site, in the City of North Tonawanda, was used to dispose of an
unknown quantity of boiler ash. The site was closed in 1971 and has since
been partly covered with grass.
Heavy-metals concentrations in a sediment sample from a wetland at the
west end of the property were higher than in water samples from near the
refuse area. Additional data would be needed to determine whether migration
is taking place; thus, the potential for contaminant migration is indeter-
minable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of glacial lacustrine clay overlying
bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled on the site in
1982; locations are shown in figure B-l. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-6.2 Fill.
6.2 - 11.2 Clay, tan, wet.
11.2 - 27.0 Same, but wetter.
27.0 - 28.5 Clay, sandy, pinkish.
28.5 - 30.0 Bedrock.
SAMPLE: 5-7 ft.
2 0-1.0 Topsoil.
1.0 - 3.0 Clay, gray.
3.0 - 5.0 Sand, clayey, dark, very wet.
5.0 - 5.5 Clay, dry.
5.5 - 6.2 Sand, dry, tight.
SAMPLE: 3 - 5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Water levels in the two wells indicated ground water
to be 3 to 5 ft below land surface. The direction of ground-water flow
appeared to be toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected water samples from
the two wells and a sediment sample from the swamp on the west side of the
property (fig. B-l) for chromium, copper, iron, and organic-compound analyses.
Results are given in table B-l. No organic compounds were found; however, the
sediment sample was analyzed at a detection limit of mg/kg instead of ug/kg.
The concentrations of chromium, copper, and iron in the water samples exceeded
USEPA criteria for drinking water and the New York State ground-water stan-
dards. The substrate sample had a higher copper concentration than soil
samples from undisturbed areas.
176
-------
Table B-l.—Analyses of ground-water and sediment samples from Buffalo Pumps
Division, site f>, North Tonawanda, N.Y., June 21, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-l. Concentrations are in [Jg/L and
Ug/kg respectively; dashes indicate that compound was not found.]
Sample number
Inorganic constituents
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Organic compounds
Ground
1
150T
3,400t
260,000!
—
water
2
40
300
51 ,000t
—
Surface-water sediment
3
l,500,000tt
10,000,000
***
T Exceeds USF.PA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or NYS standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples from undisturbed soils in the Tonawanda
area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
*** Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
No compounds detected.
78° 53'10'
43°
02'
46"
EXPLANATION
^ Monitoring well and
water sample
o
° Substrate sample
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-l. Location of sampling holes and monitoring well at
Buffalo Pumps Division, site 6, North Tonawanda.
177
-------
24-37. OCCIDENTAL CHEMICAL-DUREZ DIVISION (Literature review) NYSDEC 932018
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Occidental
Chemical-Durez Division, in the city of North Tonawanda, has 14 separate
disposal areas, which were operated during 1930-73. Sites 36 and 37 (fig.
B-2) have been properly capped with clay and are being monitored by the
present owner. The buried materials consist of 250 tons of phenol tar (some
may contain chlorobenzenes), 28,000 tons of phenol-bearing material, and 25
tons of calcium-aluminum oxide and calcium phosphate. The site has been under
investigation since 1979. A second investigation that was initiated in
response to the detection of dioxin was completed in November 1982. In May
1983, 32 additional piezometers were installed, bringing the total number of
piezometers to more than RO. The site owner did additional soil and ground-
water sampling in July 1983. In addition, New York State has begun a program
to delineate the direction of ground-water flow and chemical migration.
The potential for contaminant migration within the permeable fill and
fluvial sand and gravel is major. Analyses of the monitoring-well samples
indicate that some migration has taken place, although no chlorinated organic
contaminants had reached bedrock as of 1980. This would be expected because
78° 51'33'
—
Z
_c
ID
z
Residential
Revere
'••
Rest dential
Harding
Residential
Wilson Ave
|*W-12
"D CD
' I -P-25
| § P-3« A
V) JZ \I/
03 CD
* - •p-24r-^
I2*/
.P-2P-4.
1
Residential
Ave
Resi denti a 1
Ave
• W-16
.M9
• P-18
• P-8
c^
01
<
•6
o
VI
£
i P^x p"22'/
Ik35) .P-,n /
P-17|| ^^ "p-23. /
• P-27p.
/34\
• P-28 P-16«
^Jiy\
^*P-15
P 13«|
32x_
M2.TL
C~?x-*yl
-^ W-7P-14|
O2? • p- 11 '
i
Si /
c ^
<•>
fe
I
0.
$
£
cc
P-21 /
36 • /
X^ c?
I 37 I /
-------
the bedrock is overlain by silt and clay. Offsite migration within ground
water has been detected in the southwest corner of the site north of Walck
Road, in utility beddings along Walck Road, and perhaps along Wilson Avenue
and eastward past the railroad grade (fig. B-2).
Additional chemical data, given in the August 1982 report by Occidental
Chemical-Durez, indicate the presence of chemical constituents in the bedrock
wells on site. This may have resulted from vertical migration through several
old bedrock wells on site that were not properly plugged until 1981 or 1982.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying glaciolacustrine
silt and clay units that are underlain in places by till. These units overlie
bedrock of Camillus Shale. A geologic column is shown in figure B-3.
The present owner installed 23 shallow wells during 1979-80 to monitor
water levels and collect water samples (fig. R-2). The geologic logs and
well-construction specifications are given in Recra Research, Inc. (1980).
Hydrologic information.—The bedrock (Camillus Shale) is estimated to have a
transmissivity value ranging from 7,000 to 80,000 (gal/d)/ft. This wide range
reflects the varying amount of dissolution cavities, joints, and bedding
PERIOD
>-
DC
—;•.;•;
ii-sj^iiiis
-_-_ _-_-_-_-_
S-Vvrtf
• • ••..'» -: • .••
••i)0iij>if:
= : L_^_
- - " • -
•<*2>.v<;
$!g
±5tc
5^
c^
THICKNESS,
IN FEET
0-5
0-5
16-23
0-7
500-700*
CHARACTER
Gravel, fly ash, coal dust,
industrial waste, clean
Brown clayey si Its to fine
Medi um to coarse sands
occasionally grading to
gravel
Purple brown clay; verystiff
at top becoming very soft at
bottomired, silty laminations
i ncrease wi th depth
Brown si Ity gravelly sand
with cobbles
Gray-green shale to
carbonate mudstone, highly
fractured, numerous veins
and bod i es of gypsum
Figure B-3.
* Drill ing penetrated upper 60 feet
General geolog-La column of formations underlying Occidental
Chemical-Durez Division, sites 24 through 37, North Tonatfanda.
(Modified from Recra Research, Inc., 1980.)
179
-------
planes within the formation. Regionally, under nonpmping conditions, ground
water in the Camillus Shale moves west and south to discharge into Tonawanda
Creek and Niagara River (Recra Research, Inc., 1980).
The unconsolidated depoists contain a water table, which suggests
generally southward flow from most of the site, except where ground-water
gradients on the northeast side indicate northeastward flow. These flow
patterns are generally restricted to the more permeahle material overlying
the silt and clay. The permeability of the silt and clay is estimated to be
10~6 cm/s.
Table B-2 .--Water-table altitudes in wells at Occidental Chemical-r»ureZ,
sites 24-37, North Tonawanda, N.Y., 19801
[All altitudes are in reference to site benchmark 2
at 100.08 ft above NRVD. Locations are shown in
fig. B-2. Blank space indicates no measurement made.]
Well
number2
P-l
P-2
P-3
P-4
P-5
P-6
P-7
P-8
P-9
P-10
P-ll
P-l 2
P-l 3
P-14
P-15
P-16
P-17
P-18
P-19
P-20
P-21
P-22
P-2 3
P-24
P-25
P-26
P-27
P-28
P-29
P-30
W-7
W-12
W-16
W-17
Reference-
point
altitude
(ft)
100.58
100.32
100.68
100.20
100.58
99.73
99.66
102.95
102.03
102.60
103.17
103.56
101. 94
103.11
101.86
100.10
100.44
100.81
102.72
101.60
100.53
100.21
101.49
100.12
100.64
101.72
100.93
100.92
101.83
102.11
103.34
101.63
102.85
100.23
Land-
surface
altitude
(ft)
98.2
98.3
98.7
98.5
98.7
97.9
98.0
101.0
99.8
101.7
101.4
101.2
99.9
101.0
99.3
98.1
98.4
99.1
101.2
99.8
98.3
97.9
98.7
98.3
98.2
100.5
98.7
99.2
98.4
100.1
100.0
98.6
97.9
98.1
Date of measurement
1-10-80
95.83
93.24
96.43
93.12
94.66
92.73
93.83
94.95
95.86
95.43
99.55
97.19
97.19
97.44
97.11
97.10
97.61
97.14
93.76
93.93
96.74
96.88
96.91
95.91
96.22
96.64
96.93
96.75
96.66
97.19
1-15-80
96.08
93.49
96.76
93.17
95.00
92.77
92.99
95.12
96.20
96.02
99.75
97.23
97.77
98.07
97.69
97.35
98.11
97.19
94.10
94.18
97.53
97.21
97.24
96.70
96.93
96.97
98.18
98.09
97.83
97.61
2-5-80
95.50
92.65
96.22
93.12
94.58
92.65
93.58
94.49
95.78
95.18
99.71
97.14
96.61
97.11
96.78
97.27
97.27
97.14
93.39
Q3.68
96.36
96.59
96.45
95.10
95.85
96.47
96.26
96.21
96.37
96.61
88.76
88.55
88.85
88.48
4-3-80
96.33
94.20
97.18
93.28
95.67
93.34
94.37
95.78
96.70
96.89
99.80
96.89
98.19
18.69
98.19
97.52
98.02
97.48
95.10
94.77
97.45
97.38
97.32
97.75
97.52
97.26
98.88
98.21
97.91
97.61
88.34
88.59
88.35
88.40
6-18-80
95.75
93.53
96.81
93.12
94.83
93.99
95.03
95.23
99.46
97.27
96.94
97.53
97.03
96.27
96.19
93.80
96.09
95.41
95.31
96.89
96.05
88.01
87.92
87.52
88.31
Data from Recra Research, Inc. (1980)
P - shallow well, W = bedrock well
180
-------
Chemica1 information.—Recra Research sampled several of the monitoring wells
for selected organic compounds; results are given in table B-3. Water from
the shallow wells contained a substantial amount of contamination from the
overburden; the bedrock wells did not indicate chlorinated organic compounds
in 1980.
Source of data.—Recra Research, Inc., 1980, Hydrogeologic investigation,
Durez Division, Hooker Chemicals and Plastics Corporation, Walck Road, North
Tonawanda, Niagara County, New York: City of Buffalo, 74 p., 10 figs.,
11 append.
Table B-3.—Analyses of samples from monitoring wells at Occidental Chemical-Durez, sites 24-37,
North Tonawanda, N.Y., 19801
[Well locations are shown in fig, B-2. Concentrations are in pg/L. Dashes
indicate not analyzed, ND indicates not detected.]
Constituent
pH (Field)
pH (Lab)
Specific conductance (timho/cm)
Total recoverable phenolic*
Toluene
Monochloroenzene
0-dichlorobenzene
M-dichlorobenzene
P-dichlorobenzene
1 ,2,3-trichlorobenzene
1 ,2,4-trichlorobenzene
1,3, 5-tr ichlorobenzene
Constituent
pH (Field)
pH (Lab)
Specific conductance (pmho/cm)
Total recoverable phenolica
Toluene
Monochloroenzene
0-dich lorobenzene
M-dichlorobenzene
P-dichlorobenzene
1 ,2, 3- t rich lorobenzene
1 ,2,4-trichlorobenzene
1,3, 5-trichlorobenzene
Constituent
pH (Field)
pH (Lab)
Specific conductance (pmho/cm)
Total recoverable phenolics
Toluene
Monochloroenzene
0-dichlorobenzene
M-dichlorobenzene
P-dichlorobenzene
1 ,2,3-trichlorobenzene
1,2,4-trichlorobenzene
1 ,3,5-trichlorobenzene
P-l
4-4-80
8.90
1,290
4.3
80
ND
190
32
170
ND
ND
ND
P-5
4-2-80
12.46
8,410
0.34
98
—
2,300
330
1,500
ND
ND
ND
P-ll
4-1-80
8.27
679
64
480
ND
17
16
25
ND
ND
ND
P-l
6-18-80
7.68
970
2.3
290
85
160
62
280
ND
ND
23
P-5
6-18-80
12.37
7,450
0.62
89
4,000
430
52
350
ND
20
ND
P-ll
6-17-80
6.60
7.87
452
190
1,100
460
76
ND
26
ND
ND
ND
Well numbe
P-2
4-4-80
—
—
0.023
ND
ND
22
ND
29
ND
ND
ND
P-7
4-4-80
7.61
3,640
190
190
ND
1,000
200
1,300
33
34
ND
P-12
4-2-80
7.32
2,900
1.1
180
ND
54
21
170
ND
ND
ND
:r and date i
P-2
6-17-80
7.44
2,080
0.015
ND
ND
13
ND
18
ND
ND
ND
P-7
6-17-80
7.45
7.81
2,250
44
680
12,000
3.200
1,100
5,500
ND
910
NO
P-12
6-18-80
6.75
7.49
1,810
29
ND
1,300
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
sampled (P
P-3
4-4-80
„
9.80
2,010
0.49
ND
-- 1,
2,600
780
2,200
ND
ND
ND
P-8
4-4-80
._
—
—
0.024
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-13
4-2-80
7.47
1,180
0.021
ND
ND
ND
29
18
ND
ND
ND
• shallow w<
P-3
6-17-80
„
7.99
2,810
0.71
ND
400,000
1,500
350
1,800
ND
ND
ND
P-9
4-1-80
..
6.91
5,100
0.21
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-14
4-2-80
..
12.34
5,620
0.098
NO
ND
ND
ND
12
ND
ND
ND
ill)
P-4
4-2-80
_
7.02
1,310
0.22
ND
ND
2,300
770
1,400
370
680
27
P-10
4-4-80
7.68
936
0.022
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-14
6-18-80
11.90
12.04
3,720
0.058
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-4
6-18-80
6.75
7.76
1,380
0.025
ND
940
3,200
2,000
5,000
200
1,100
46
P-10
6-17-80
6.90
7.68
870
0.018
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-l 5
4-2-80
7.69
4,800
0.13
ND
ND
58
25
25
ND
ND
ND
181
-------
Table B-3.—Analyses of samples from monitoring wells at Occidental Chemical-Duress, sites 24-37,
North Tonawanda, N.Y., 1980' (continued)
Well number and date sampled (P * shallow well; W
Constituent
pH (Field)
pH (Lab)
Specific conductance (pmho/cm)
Total recoverable phenolics
Toluene
Monochloroenzene
0-dich lorobenzene
M-dich lorobenzene
P-dichlorobenzene
1 , 2 , 3- t rich lorobenzene
1 ,2 ,4-trichlorobenzene
1 ,3,5-trichlorobetizene
Constituent
pH (Field)
pH (Lab)
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
Total recoverable phenolics
Toluene
Monochloroenzene
0-dichlorobenzene
M-dich lorobenzene
P-dichlorobenzene
1,2, 3- t rich lorobenzene
1 ,2,4-trichlorobenzene
1 , 3, 5- 1 rich lorobenzene
Constituent
pH (Field)
pH (Lab)
Specific conductance (umno/cm)
Toluene
Monochloroenzene
0-dichlorobenzene
M-dichlorobenzene
P-dichlorobenzene
1,2, 3- t rich lorobenzene
1 ,2,4-trichlorobenzene
1 ,3,5-trichlorobenzene
Constituent
pH (Field)
pH (Lab)
Specific conductance (pmho/cm)
Total recoverable phenolics
Toluene
Monochloroenzene
0-dichlorobenzene
M-dichlorobenzene
P-dichlorobenzene
1 ,2,3-trichlorobenzene
1 ,2,4-trichlorobenzene
1 ,3,5-trichlorobenzene
P-15
6-18-80
6.75
7.36
4,890
0.48
110
160
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-22
6-17-80
6.80
7.49
1,510
0.031
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-27
4-2-80
6.96
1,600
0.014
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-16
4-2-80
12.57
10,300
0.049
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-23
4-2-80
7.71
1,240
0.016
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-28
4-2-80
7.73
1,470
0.014
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
W-12
6-12-80
7.63
3,720 4
11
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-17
4-2-80
12.49
8,640
0.013
ND
ND
ND
ND
11
ND
ND
ND
P-24
4-1-80
7.17
780
1.0
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-28
6-18-80
6.85
7.49
1,210
0.002
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
W-16
4-3-80
7.14
,300
19
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-19
4-4-80
7.14
7,200
0.065
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-24
6-17-80
6.95
7.48
765
0.11
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-29
4-2-80
7.37
965
0 .042
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
W-16
6-12-80
—
7.56
4,110 13
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-19
6-18-80
6.50
7.19
5,700
0.207
ND
ND
46
ND
14
ND
ND
ND
P-25
4-4-80
7.42
1,270
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-30
4-2-80
7.55
1,870
0*023
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
W-17
4-3-80
6.98
« deep well)
P-20
4-2-80
__
7.73
1,770
0.037
ND
ND
37
ND
25
ND
ND
ND
P-25
6-17-80
7.00
7.39
890
0.02
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
W-7
4-3-80
7.28
4,120
Qni ft
• \) IO
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
W-17
6-12-80
7.34
P-21
4-2-80
7.41
1,710
0.028
ND
ND
52
ND
17
ND
ND
ND
P-26
4-4-80
6.46
1,640
23
2,400
—
13
ND
12
ND
ND
ND
W-7
6-12-80
7.71
3,970
Onvs
• U / J
240
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-22
4-2-80
8.23
1,220
0.047
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
P-26
6-17-80
6.95
7.75
1,070
5.1
3,300
1,200
15
ND
15
ND
ND
ND
W-12
4-3-80
—
0 060
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
,400 10,900
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
ND
Data from Recra Research, Inc., 1980.
182
-------
50. NATIONAL GRINDING WHEEL (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932066
General information and chemical-migration potential.—National Grinding
Wheel Division of Federal-Mogul Corporation, is on Walck Road in North
Tonawanda. During 1974-77, the company disposed of waste in an undeveloped
area northwest of the plant. A sketch of the site showing sampling points is
given in figure B-4.
The landfilling operations took place in three trenches covering an area
of about 100 ft2 and extending to a maximum depth of 18 ft. The waste
material consisted of unknown quantities of vitrified bakelite wheels, rubber
resinoid mix, dust-collector fines, and general refuse. Disposal ceased
during 1977 when National Grinding Wheel withdrew its application for a permit
to operate a landfill at this location.
After completion of a hydrogeologic investigation of the site (NYSDEC,
written commun., 1983), National Grinding Wheel proposed to remediate the site
by excavating the disposal trenches. Remediation began in July 1983 and,
except for final grading, was completed in September. Salvageable grinding
43°
02'
50'
78° 5V24'
/
//
z
EXPLANATION
| _j Approximate area of landfill waste
BOW2-81 Monitoring well
Kilns
50 FEET
Base from Conestoga-Rovers & Associates, 1983
Figure B-4. Location of monitoring wells and surface-water samples
at National Grinding Wheel, site 50, North Tonawanda.
183
-------
wheels were reclaimed, and contaminated soil and nonreclaimable wheels were
sent to a sanitary landfill for disposal. The excavated area was backfilled
with clean material.
The present potential for offsite contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—In January 1981, Empire Soils installed five monitoring
wells; locations are shown in figure B-5. Well depths range between 5 and 10
ft. The geologic logs are as follows:
Well no. Depth Description
OW1 0-1' Brownish red silt and clay cover mottled.
1' - 10.5' Fill - grinding wheels, stone, glass,
plastic - reddish black oily liquid.
10.5' - 14' Medium-brown silty clay - soft.
OW2 0 - 1' Topsoil.
1' - 2' Brown and orange silty fine sand.
2' - 5' Medium-brown silty fine sand, wet at 4 ft.
5' - 8.5' Red, brown, and gray silty clay layers - stiff.
8.5' - 10' Reddish-brown and gray silty clay - stiff.
OW3 0 - 1.5' Fill - brown and orange silt, sand and clay.
1.5' - 2' Topsoil.
2' - 5' Medium-brown silty fine sand - wet.
5' - 8' Brown, red, and gray silty clay layers.
8' - 13' Medium-brown silty clay.
13' - 20.5' Medium- and reddish-brown silty clay - soft.
20.5' - 21' Reddish-brown clayey silt till.
OW4 0-2' Brown, red, and tan silty clay.
2' - 5' Medium-brown fine sandy silt - moist.
5' - 9" Brown, gray, red, and tan silty clay layers.
OW5 0-3' Fill - brown and orange clay, silt and fine sand.
3' - 7' Fill - grinding wheels, stones, few chuncks
of medium-brown sandy silt.
7' - 12' Reddish-brown and gray silty clay.
12' - 14" Reddish-brown silty clay - soft.
Foundation borings made on the site encountered bedrock at an average
depth of 38 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Conestoga Rovers and Associates (1982) collected
ground-water data and constructed a ground-water map showing flow direction.
As shown on figure B-5, ground-water flow in the overburden is radially out-
ward from the trenches.
Chemical information.—Recra Research, Inc. collected surface-water and
ground-water samples for chemical analysis. Sampling locations are shown on
figure B-4. Most samples were analyzed for pH, total organic carbon, specific
conductance, and phenols. Results are given in tables B-4 and B-5.
184
-------
78° 51'24'
43°
02'
50"
«,
/ /
/ / ^
/ / f .
/ / •. 97 18v-*T
< iC-/ ' \
- / // \ N
r- s& ' \
/• Q»/ \
^ c^/ \
/'
.••• /
J
f
/Fence
/ Gate
/ .+
/ / EXPLANATION
A'
\
OW2-81 \
i (97.89) '••.
S ~~^\ ^*
""" 198.281 ' ^ _ (97.79)
v \ *
M^
T Manhole
IQ7 731 1 .'
51
1
1 Kilns
oil —~
SJ (75)
"'l
/ / ^i
/ / .OW2-81 Monitoring well. Number in parentheses °°
' * (97.89) is water levek measured on March 13, 1981
/ in feet above sea level
/
0 50 FEET
/ — 98.0— — Water-table contour. Shows altitude of
water-table in March
1981. Datum is sea level
Base from Conestoga-Rovers & Associates, 1983
Figure 3-5. Direction of ground-water flow at National Grinding Wheel,
site 50, North Tonauanda, N.Y.
(Modified from Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1982.)
Table B-4.—Analyses of surface-water samples from National Grinding Wheel,
site 50, North Tonawanda, N.Y. April 6, 1979.
[Concentrations in yg/L; LT indicates constituent or compound
was detected but below the quantifiable detection limit.]1
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
Aluminum, soluble
Chloride
Chromium, soluble
Copper, soluble
Iron, soluble
Nickel, soluble
Zinc, soluble
Grease and oil, total
Grease and oil, hydrocarbon
Grease and oil, polar
Phenol
Total organic carbon
Sample
A
472
800
17,500
8
1,660
180
40
45
LT
LT
LT
780
29,500
identification
B
700
800 1,
95,200 36,
LT
480
210
LT
78
LT
LT
LT
1,400
43,500 44,
C
489
000
500
4
34
220
LT
29
LT
LT
LT
100
500
Data from Recra Research, Inc., 1979
185
-------
Table B-5.—Analyses of water samples from National Grinding Wheel, site 50,
North Tonawanda, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. B-4. Concentrations in yg/L; dashes
indicate constituent or compound not analyzed, LT indicates it
was detected but below the quantifiable detection limit.]1
Constituent or
characteristic
OW-1
Sampling site
OW-2 OW-3
OW-4
OW-5
North
ditch
Sewer
manhole
PH
(02-17-81)
(03-04-81)
(06-03-82)
10.1
10.0
10.0
7.3
6.8
7.5
7.0
6.7
7.9
7.3
6.8
8.2
7.3
6.7
7.8
7.0
7.6
8.7
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
(02-17-81)
(03-04-81)
(06-03-82)
Aluminum
(02-17-81)
(03-04-81)
(06-03-82)
Total organic
(02-17-81)
(03-04-81)
(06-03-82)
Phenols
(02-17-81)
(03-04-81)
(06-03-82)
7,660
7,020
8,500
14,500
6,750
5,670
carbon
5,300,000
5,740,000
8,328,000
952,000
1,150,000
1,007,000
1,740
1,500
1,670
50
LT
LT
43,300
4,600
7,270
18
6
6
1,800
1,600
1,348
1,750
LT
1,000
21,100
19,300
172,000
1,680
1,040
40
1,610
1,450
735
1,600
3,350
— -
5,000
17,100
7,250
11
28
100
1,320
1,140
1,120
70,000
1,350
15,360
5,100
6,800
19,750
13
11
10
423
—
—
500
—
LT
15,800
—
50,380
5
—
~
—
—
1,500
—
—
250
—
—
90,080
—
—
100
Data from Recra Research, Inc., 1982
60. ROBLIN STEEL COMPANY (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932059
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Roblin Steel
Company site, in the city of North Tonawanda, contains an unknown quantity of
phosphate sludge, steel scale, furnace brick, oil, and oxides. The phosphate
sludge is concentrated, compacted, and covered for secure landfilling; the
remaining materials are stored in an area of about 1 acre and are being
transported periodically to other landfills.
No geologic or hydrologic information are available.
contaminant migration is indeterminable.
The potential for
186
-------
67. FRONTIER CHEMICAL COMPANY—PENDLETON SITE
(USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932043
General information and chemical migration potential.—The Frontier
Chemical Company-Pendleton Site, in the town of Pendleton, was used for treat-
ment of industrial wastes. An unknown quantity of waste oil, solvent, acids,
paint waste, dyes, heavy-metal sludges, and other material was disposed of on
the site. A quarry lake on the property that was used in the treatment opera-
tions is contaminated with heavy metals. A remedial program is being imple-
mented that consists of treating and dewatering the lake and excavating the
sludge, which will be contained in a secure facility to be built on the pro-
perty.
The potential for downward migration through the clay beneath the site
appears limited, but the chemical data suggest that a small quantity of heavy
metals may be leaching laterally, as indicated by surface-water sample 5
(table B-6). Additional testing would be needed to confirm the migration of
contaminants. Currently the potential for contamination migration is indeter-
minable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a Holocene lacustrine clay
overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three
test borings in 1982; locations are shown in figure B-6. The geologic logs
are as follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0
4.5
5.0
11.4
4.5
5.0
11.4
26.5
Description
Fill material.
Debris, wet, black.
Clay, tan, pinkish at 9.0 ft.
Same.
Note: Logged hole with Gamma ray,
SOIL SAMPLE: 3.0 - 3.5 ft.
2 0-1.3 Topsoil
1.3 - 3.0 Clay and brick debris.
WATER SAMPLE: 2.5 - 3.0 ft zone.
3 0-1.4 Clay, tan
1.4 - 2.1 Same.
2.1 - 2.6 Clay, damp, with some sand
2.6 - 3.4 Same.
3.1 - 3.6 Clay, pink.
3.6 - 4.0 Clay, with some quartz sand.
4.0 - 4.6 Clay, brown, tight
SOIL SAMPLE: 3.6 - 4.0 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered 2 to 5 ft below land
surface. The U.S. Geological Survey installed one well on the property, in
which the water level was slightly higher than in the quarry lake, which was
573 ft above NGVD.
187
-------
Chemical Information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected five samples in
1982—a water sample from the well, two soil samples from the test borings,
and two surface-water samples from the drainage ditch along Townline Road
(fig. B-6) for cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, nickel, and zinc analyses. In
May 1983, the Survey collected two substrate samples for organic-compound ana-
lyses. Results are given in table B-6. The water samples contained iron con-
centrations that exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking water and New York State
standards for ground water; the soil samples had high concentrations of
copper.
Additional data on chemical quality of lake water and sediments are
available at the NYSDEC office in Buffalo, N.Y.
78° 49'52
EXPLANATION
Monitoring well and water sample
Test boring and substrate sample
Surface water sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-6. Locations of sampling holes and monitoring wells
at Frontier Chemical Company, site 67, Pendleton.
188
-------
Table B-6.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and substrate samples from
Frontier Chemical, site 67, Pendleton, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. B-6. Concentrations are in ug/L and ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indi-
cates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit. Blank
space indicates that samples were not analyzed for characteristic.]
First
sampling
(06-22-82)
PH
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Sample
Substrate
1
(3.2)
2
number
and depth
Ground water
2
(2.8)
7.0
,190
13.0
(dupli-
cate)
below land
Substrate
3
(3.8)
2
surface
Surface
4
7.2
,020
26.0
(ft)
water
5
7
1,970
20
.4
.0
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Nickel
Zinc
5,000
74,000tt
6,000,000
26,000
2 (2) 1,000 2 4
(—) 10,000
18 (15) 150,000tt 24 670
3,000t(l,400t) Q,500,000 34,000t 200,000t
53 (57) 20,000 38 1,000
1,700 (1,300) 39,000 180 3,600
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Substrate
Second sampling (05-23—83)
1A
(3.2)
3A
(3.8)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Trans-1,3,-dichloroethene
Trichloroethene
Di-n-butyl phthalate
110
900
LT
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or NYS standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples from undisturbed soils in the area.
Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
189
-------
68. GRATWICK-RIVERSIDE PARK (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 932060
General information and chemical-migration potential.—Gratwick-Riverside
Park, in the City of North Tonawanda, was used by two large manufacturing
firms for the disposal of 25,000 tons of phenolic resin, 25,000 tons of pheno-
lic molding compounds, 50 tons of oil and grease, and 50,000 tons of municipal
rubbish and hard fill. In 1982, the owner removed more than 30 barrels of
hazardous waste from the bank of the Niagara River.
The potential for contaminant migration is major. The fill is permeable,
enabling ground water to move laterally toward the Niagara River, which is
adjacent to the site. Downward movement of contaminants through the
underlying clay is unlikely, however.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a Holocene
lacustrine clay, which in turn overlies bedrock of Camillus Shale. Depth to
bedrock is approximately 25 ft. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled one well
and obtained a test boring on the site in 1982; its location is shown in
figure B-7. The geologic log is as follows:
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 4.5 Topsoil, fill, dark.
4.5 - 5.5 Debris, pottery, tile.
5.5 - 9.0 Soil, dark, black, wet.
9.0 - 11.5 Gravel, little or no return, bricks.
11.5 - 16.0 No return.
16.0 - 21.5 Clay, sandy, gravel, wet, hard drilling.
Hydrologic information.—Water levels in the newly installed well (no. 1) and
four older wells (nos. 2-5) indicate ground water to be approximately 6 ft
below land surface. The apparent direction of ground-water flow is southwest-
ward toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—In 1979, Recra Research, Inc. completed an investiga-
tion of the site. The analytical data and drilling logs are available at
NYSDEC in Buffalo, N.Y.
In 1981, the Niagara County Health Department sampled wells 2 through 5
(fig. B-7) for cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, nickel, total organic halo-
gens, and phenol. Concentrations of all heavy metals were less than or equal
to their detection limits. Total organic halogen concentration ranged from
less than 1 yg/L to 35 yg/L, and phenol ranged from 200 yg/L to 17,000 yg/L.
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey sampled the new monitoring well (no.
1) along with the four others for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron,
lead, mercury, nickel, and organic compounds. Results are given in table B-7.
All wells except no. 5 had iron and lead concentrations exceeding USEPA
drinking-water criteria and New York State ground-water standards. In wells
3, 4, 5, phenols exceeded the USEPA criterion and State standard, and at well
4, phenol was found in concentrations as high as 1,914 ug/L. Concentrations
of most other compounds were less than 100 ug/L.
190
-------
Table B-7.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Gratwick Riverside Park,
site 68, North Tonawanda, N.Y., July 28, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-7. Concentrations are in Mg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
12345
(15.3) (15.0) (11.7) (19.4) (19.2)
pH
Specific conductance
(ymho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Molecular sulfur1
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Phenol
Naphthalene
Butylbenzyl phthalate
2,4-Dimethylphenol
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Bis-2(ethylhexyl)
phthalate
Tetrachloroeylene
Ethylbenzene
Nonpriority pollutants
l-(2~butoxyethoxy)
ethanol1
[l-l'-biphenyl]-2-ol1
11.4
2,110
10.0
LT
8**
85**
32**
10.6 10.8
1,650 2,450
12.0
12.0
10.0
504
13.0
97t
l,900t
50.3
20.9
LTt
6
LT
5.2
11.2
1,780
13.0
1
3
3
56
8,800t
loot
0.7T
—
—
10
1
—
25
6,400t
150t
—
5
—
1
—
—
12
4,400T
64 T
—
3
—
1
1
—
22
15,000t
140t
O.lt
20
—
1
—
—
10
3, 100!
43
0.7t
5
546
13.7t
LT
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or NYS standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
191
-------
Table B-7.—
Analyses of ground-water samples from Gratwick Riverside Park,
site 68, North Tonawanda, N.Y. , July 28, 1982 (continued)
Sample number
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
11**
5.2**
8.8**
[l-l'-biphenyl]-3-olL
[l-r-biphenyli-4-ol1
2-dibenzofuranol1
l-chloro-3-
phenoxybenzene
4~chloro[l,1'-biphenyl]-
4-011
l-chloro-4-phenoxybenzene
0-cresol
3-(l,1-dimethylethyl)-
phenol1
1-H-indole1
1,6-dimethy1-4-
(1-methylethyl)
naphthalene
2-[(4-hydroxypheny1)methy1]
phenol 1
4,4'-methylenebisphenol1
m-cresol
l,r-(l,2-ethanediyl)bis
[3,4-dimethy1]benzene1
2-butoxyethylbutyl
phthalate1
1,6-hexanediol1
1-1'-oxybisbenzene1 —
1-(1,1'-dimethylethyl)
benzene1 —
3,8-dimethylundeeane1
Dibenzofuran1
[l-l'-biphenyl]-2-ol1
2-phenoxyphenol1 —
3-ethyl-3-methyl hexane1
4-phenoxylphenol —
4-(l,l-Dimethylethyl)-
phenol1
1,4-Dimethyl-7-(l-methylethyl)
azulene1
1,2-Dimethylbenzene1
1,3-Dimethylbenzene1
l-Ethyl-3-methylbenzene1
l-Ethyl-4-methylbenzene1 —
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene1
P-cresol
1-Ethy1-2-methy1benzene1
53**
35**
15**
LT**
LT**
LT**
5.0
LT
31.2
LT
LT
LT
LT
370
194
LT**
7.4**
LT**
6.2**
LT**
2.5**
3.2**
44**
4.8**
1.3**
16**
14.7
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
5
18
LT
192
-------
Table B-7.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Gratwick Riverside Park,
site 68, North Tonawanda, N.Y., July 28, 1982 (continued)
Sample number
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
Dihydro-5-methyl-5-phenyl
2(3H)-furanone l
a,a,-Dimethylbenzene-
methanol * —
1,2 ,3,4-Tetramethylbenzene1 —
3,4-Dimethylphenol1 —
2,3-Dihydro-4-methyl
4-indene 1 —
2-Ethylphenol
2,3-Dimethylphenol1
2-[2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)
ethoxy]ethanol 1 —
1 ,4-Dihydro-l,4-methano-
naphthalene —
5-(l,1-Dimethylethyl-
butanethioate 1 —
1-Methylnaphthalene1 —
LT
LT
LT
15
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
EXPLANATION
Monitoring well and water sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-7. Location of monitoring wells at Gratwiek-Riverside
Park, site 68, North Tonawanda.
193
-------
72. HOLIDAY PARK (USGS field reconnaissance)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Holiday Park site,
in the city of North Tonawanda, was used primarily for municipal-waste dispo-
sal and by a chemical firm to dispose of 125 tons of pheolic resin, 500 tons
of phenolic molding compounds, and 500 tons of mixed refuse. The materials
were buried in three areas on the property and in much of the area now occupied
by the golf course.
Chemical data indicate a possiblity of leachate migration from two of the
areas. Two samples suggest possible northward migration from the southeast
disposal area, and one indicates possible migration from the westernmost area.
The presence of organic compounds in one sample is attributed to sampling
within the disposal area, as indicated by the drilling log, and cannot be con-
sidered evidence of contaminant migration. Additional testing would be needed
to confirm migration. The potential for contaminant migration at this site is
indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The area consists of glacial lacustrine clay overlying
bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled six test
borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure B-8. The
geologic logs are on p. 195.
Hydrologic information.—Seven monitoring wells are on the site—five new
wells installed by the U.S. Geological Survey in 1982 for this study and two
older ones. Water levels in the wells suggest the direction of ground-water
flow to be east toward Tonawanda Creek and the drainage ditches (fig. B-8).
After water samples were withdrawn from these monitoring wells, recovery time
often exceeded 48 hours, which indicates extremely slow ground-water movement.
78° 50'40'
43°
02'
30"
Site243
(Botanical
Gardens)
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
06 Monitoring well and water sample
D? Test boring and substrate sample
A^O Surface-water sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-8. Location of sampling holes and monitoring wells
at Holiday Park, site 72, North Tonawanda.
194
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.5 Dark topsoil, clay.
1.5 - 5.0 Clay, greenish-gray.
5.0-11.0 No returns; hit many kinds of debris, such as
mattress springs, etc. Depth to water 5.15 ft
below land surface
WATER SAMPLE: 9.2 - 11.2 ft.
2 0 0.5 Topsoil with gravel fill.
0.5 - 1.5 Clay, olive-drab, "modeling clay."
1.5 - 3.0 Clay, sandy, yellowish, moist.
3.0 - 3.5 Clay, brown/yellow, saturated, sandy.
3.5 - 4.5 Clay, sandy, dry, yellow/buff.
4.5 - 6.0 Clay, sandy, dry.
6.0 - 7.5 Sand, very fine, rust stained.
7.5 - 10.0 Clay, sandy, some gravel-size cherty material,
may be fill.
10.0 - 11.5 Clay, sandy.
11.5 - 15.2 Clay, pinkish color.
Water level 7.62 ft below land surface.
WATER SAMPLE: 13.2 - 15.2 ft.
3 0-4.5 Topsoil, light to dark brown.
4.5 - 6.0 Clay, sandy, greenish gray. Hit saturation
at 6.0 ft
6.0 - 15.0 Clay, very sandy, gray, saturated.
Water level 7.62 ft below land surface.
WATER SAMPLE: 12.4 - 14.4 ft.
4 0-2.0 Topsoil, dark brown to yellow tan.
2 - 3.5 Topsoil, brown, wet at 3.5 ft.
3.5 - 22.5 Clay, sandy, alternating brown and gray, wet.
Hit hard layer at 22.5 ft. Bedrock? Camillus
Shale?
WATER SAMPLE: 20.5 - 22.5 ft.
6 0-1.5 Topsoil, black to brown.
1.5 - 6.5 Clay, brown, wet.
6.5 - 9.0 Same, water at 8.0 ft.
9.0 - 11.5 Clay, pinkish, tight, "modeling clay."
11.0 - 15.0 Same, extremely tight. Moved rig forward 3 ft
and augered to clay.
WATER SAMPLE: 13.0 - 15.0
7 0-1.0 Topsoil, black, organic.
1.0 - 5.0 Clay, sandy, brown, saturated.
5.0 - 6.5 Clay, tight, dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
Cltemical information.—Recra Research completed an investigation of the site
in 1979. The data are available from NYSDEC in Buffalo, N.Y. In 1982, the
U.S. Geological Survey collected water samples from all seven monitoring
wells, one soil sample, four samples of pond water from the golf course, and
three sediment samples from the moist drainage ditches. All samples were ana-
lyzed for copper, iron, and organic compounds; results are shown in table B-8.
Only iron exceeded the USEPA criterion for drinking water and the New York
State standard for ground water. Only two organic priority pollutants were
found; their concentrations were below 50 Mg/L. The samples contained 15
organic nonpriority pollutants and 10 possibly naturally occurring compounds.
195
-------
Table B-8.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and sediment samples from
Holiday Park, site 72, Nortb Tonawanda, N.Y., June 19, 1982 to
July 9, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-8. Concentrations are in ug/L and ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the Quantifiable detection limit;
blanks indicate it was not analyzed.]
pH
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
1
6.9
2,140
10.0
Sample number
Ground water
2 3 duplicate
7.2 7.2
1,160 760
10.5 12.5
4
7.2
470
11.0
Inorganic constituents
Copper
Iron
Molecular sulfur1
46 211 8 (9) 25
90,000t 49,000 4,700t (5,200t) 19,000t
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Dibutyl phthalate
Ethylbenzene3 17
Nonpriority pollutants
4-(l,1-Dimethylethyl)-
phenol1 LT
1,3-Isobenzofurandione1 LT
4-Chloro-
transcyclohexanol1 —
3-methycyclopentanone1 LT
2-Cyclohexen-l-one1 —
2-Cyclohexen-l-ol1 —
Compounds potentially of natural origin
1,7,7-Trimethyl-bicyclo
[2.2.1]heptan-2-one1 56
2-hexanone1 LT
1,3,3-Trimethyl-bicyclo
[2.2.1]-heptan-2-one1 LT
l-Butoxy-2-propanol1 LT
LT
8.0
LT
31.8
196
-------
Table B-8.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and sediment samples from
Holiday Park, site 72, North Tonawanda, N.Y., June 19, 1982 to
July 9, 1982 (continued)
pH
Specific conductance (ymho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
5
8.0
618
9.0
Sample number
Ground water
(duplicate) 6
7.0
11.40
11.0
Inorganic constituents
Copper
Iron
Molecular sulfur
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Dibutyl phthalate
Nonpriority pollutants
2-Cyclohexen-l-one1
Ethanol,2[2-(2-
methoxyethoxy)]-acetate
2,2-Dimethyldecane1
2-Butoxyethylbutyl
phthalate^
4-Chloro-
transcyclohexanol*
l-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethanol1
12,000t
(7)
(I4,000t)
2110
96,000!
(2.0)
LT
LT
LT
LT
(11.7)
13
49
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
2 Analysis done by direct aspiration because of high iron concentration.
3 Volatile found in GC/MS extractions. Concentration probably higher than
that detected.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
***Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study. No compounds
detected.
197
-------
Table B-8.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and sediment samples from
Holiday Park, site 72, North Tonawanda, N.Y., June 19, 19R2 to
July 9, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-8. Concentrations are in Ug/L and
Pg/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit; blanks indicate it was not analyzed.]
Sample number
Sediment
duplicate
Ground water
_
PH
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic constituents
Copper 6,000
Iron 2,200,000
Molecular sulfur —
Organic compounds
Nonpriority pollutants
3,3-dimethyl-2-butanone1 1,000
2-butanone1 21,000
2-methylheptane1 2,300
acetic acid,l-methyl ester1 3,650
2,6-dimethyl heptane1 2,850
2-methyl-2-proply-l,3-
dioxolane 710
2,2'-oxybispropane1 4,200
2,6-dimethyloctane1 560
Compounds potentially of natural origin
undecane1 2,400
tridecane1 2,200
2,7-dimethylundecane1 710
2,3,5-Trimethyldecane1 2,208
Possible artifact
(6,000)
(2,300,000)
7.4
1,050
11.0
60
37,000t
LT
4-methyl-3-penten-2-one
1
4,100
(LT)
198
-------
Table B-8.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and sediment samples from
Holiday Park, site 72, North Tonawanda, N.Y., June 19, 1982 to
July 9, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-8. Concentrations are in ug/L and yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit;
blanks indicate it was not analyzed.]
Sample number
Sedi-
ment Surface water Sediment
10 duplicate U 1_2_
pH 9.0
Specific conductance (ymho/cm) 63
Temperature (°C) 24.0
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum — (—)
Antimony — (—)
Arsenic — (—)
Barium — (—)
Beryllium — (—)
Cadmium — (—)
Chromium — (—)
Cobalt — (—)
Copper 8,000 — (--) 5,000 14,000
Iron 3,600,000 198 (205) 1,800,000 370,000
Lead 33 (36)
Manganese 21 (24)
Mercury — (—)
Nickel — (—)
Selenium — (—)
Silver — (—)
Tellurium — (—)
Vanadium — (—)
Zinc 17 (16)
Organic compounds *** *** ***
Priority pollutant
Di-n-butyl phthalate — — (20)
Nonpriority pollutants
1,3-Dimethylbenzene — — (29) — —
Cyclohexanone -— — (29) — —
199
-------
93. NASH ROAD (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932054
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Nash Road site, in
the town of Wheatfield, was used by seven firms for disposal of an unknown
quantity of caustics, plating-tank sludge, and municipal waste during 1964-68.
Material excavated during construction of a highway adjacent to the southern
border of the Love Canal was buried in a trench 100 ft by 30 ft across and 27
ft deep in the northeast corner of the site. Clean fill 15 ft deep was repor-
tedly placed over the material.
The potential for contaminants to travel downward through the underlying
clay seems limited, and the potential for lateral migration cannot be eval-
uated from the available data. The chemical data indicate several organic
compounds in the ground water, but the rate at which these compounds move is
unknown. Additional data and monitoring would be needed to confirm offsite
migration. Thus, the potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a Holocene lacustrine clay unit
overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four
test borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure B-9. The
geologic logs are as follows:
78° 51'35'
1
43°
04'
08'
Suspected area of disposal
isposal area may extend
another 400 feet —•-
Wheatf i eld
North Tonawanda
EXPLANATION
O^ Monitoring well and water sample
• 2 Test boring and substrate sample
f Electromagnetic survey traverse
O Earth mounds
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-9. Location of monitoring welle and electromagnetic-conductivity
survey lines at Nash Road, site 93, tfheatfield.
200
-------
jSoring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 5.0
5.0 - 6.5
0 - 8.0
8.0 - 10.0
10.0 - 11.5
Description
Fill.
Clay, pink.
WATER SAMPLE:
6.0 ft,
Clay, tan to light green, sandy, dry,
Clay, green.
Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 8 - 10 ft.
0 - 1.5 Tan and black fill.
1.5 - 3.5 Clay, greenish, sandy, dry.
3.5 - 7.0 Clay, greenish, sandy, wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 7 ft.
A 0-1.0 Topsoil.
1.0 - 3.5 Clay, sandy, dry.
3.5 - 6.5 Clay, greenish, wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered approximately 6 ft below
land surface. The water table is estimated to be between 570 and 575 ft above
NGVD. The direction of ground-water flow is probably northeastward toward
Sawyer Creek, a tributary to Cayuga Creek, but additional wells would be
needed to confirm this.
Chemical information.—In 1982, the Geological Survey collected one water
sample and three soil samples for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron,
lead, mercury, nickel, and organic-compound analyses. Results are given in
table B-9. In sample 2, copper concentrations exceeded those in soils from
undisturbed sites, and in sample 1, iron and lead exceeded USEPA criteria for
drinking water and the New York State standard for ground water. The samples
contained five organic priority pollutants, but except for fluoranthene (538
Ug/kg), concentrations were not above the quantifiable detection limit. In
addition, 39 organic nonpriority pollutants and four possibly naturally
occurring compounds were found.
The site was also investigated by Recra Research in 1979 and by NYSDEC in
1983. The data are available from NYSDEC in Buffalo, N.Y.
Electromagnetic survey.—The Geological Survey ran an electromagnetic survey
with eight traverses in November 1982; locations are shown in figure B-9. The
effect of buried pipe is evident in the stripchart In fig. B-10.
Figure B-10,
Effect of buried pipe
on eleotromagnetie-
eonduetivity reading.
Normal conductivity
reading
201
ill
n
x' Distance (D) is of the order
'•;. of the depth of burial of
'.- the pipe
-------
The southern parts of lines 1 through 8 (fig. B-ll) show the effects of
interference by a series of high-power electrical transmission lines. These
powerlines and a housing development south of them made it impossible to begin
the southern end of each line in a waste-free area.
Lines 1, 2, and 3 show an irregular pattern of conductivity values within
the disturbed area. Beyond the trees that form the northern border of the
site, the conductivity values are within the background range.
Lines 4, 5, and 6, though longer than the first three lines, show a simi-
lar pattern. Areas of zero conductivity probably correspond to a zone of
buried metallic debris. (When readings are taken over a buried pipe or other
metal conductor, the conductivity value first rises, then drops to zero.)
Line 7 both begins and ends in a obvious zone of dumping. Data collection
beyond 340 ft was impeded by a small pond. Line 8 shows the clearest example
of powerline interference; the conductivity range throughout this line beco-
mes artifically elevated within 40 ft of the powerlines.
No definite conclusions could be made from the survey. Variability of
fill and interferences make data interpretation questionable.
100
Background conductivity
Background conductivity
100 200
DISTANCE, IN FEET
300
Figure B-ll. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at Nash Road,
site 93t Wheatfield. (Locations of lines are shown in fig. B-10.)
202
-------
125
100 -
Background conductivity
tr.
cr.
LU
o_
C/5
O
I
175
150 -
125 -
>
t—
O
Q
Z
O
u
100 -
Backqround conductivity
Background conductivity
Background conductivity
125
250
375 0
DISTANCE, IN FEET
250
Figure B-ll (continued). Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at
Nash Road, site 93, Wheatfield.
203
-------
Table B-9.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Nash Road,
site 93, Wheatfield, N.Y., June 24, .1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-9. Concentrations are in yg/L and
Ug/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Ground water Substrate
1
(6.0)
duplicate
2
(9.5)
split
pH 6.4
Specific conductance (ymho/cm) 2,650
Temperature (°C) 17.0
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromiurn
Copper
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Fluoranthene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Chrysene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene
Benzo(k)fluoranthene
1 ,4-dichlorobenzene
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Nonpriority pollutants
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene1
1 ,2 ,4-trimethylbenzene1
(l-methylethyl)benzene1
1 ,3,3-Trimethyl-bicyclo-
[2.2 .llheptan-2-one1
1,7 ,7-Trimethyl-bicyclo-
[2.2.1]heptan-2-one1
5t
1
17
90,000t
67t
0.3
34
(5t)
(O
(--)
(21)
(90,000t)
(74t)
(0.5)
(34)
] ,000
2,000
77,000tt
,500,000
20,000
(1
(4
,000)
,000)
(lOO.OOOtt)
(5,000,000)
(20,000)
(538)
(LT)
(LT)
(LT)
(LT)
7.3
LT
6.2
18
9.3
62
390
(—)
(5.7**)
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water and the New York State standard for maximum concentration
in ground water.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Tonawanda area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
204
-------
Table B-9.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Nash Road,
site 93, Wheatfield, N.Y., June 24, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-9. Concentrations are in ug/L and
Ug/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Substrate
3 4
(6.5)
PH
Specific conductance (vimho/cro)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic — —
Cadmium 1,000 1,000
Chromium 2,000 2,000
Copper 71,000 71,000
Iron 2,100,000 2,400,000
Lead 13,000 20,000
Mercury —
Nickel —
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
D-n-butyl/phthalate
Nonpriority pollutants
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene1 LT
1,2,4-trimethylbenzene1 LT —
1,4-dichlorobenzene1 LT —
(l-methylethyl)benzene1 LT —
1,3,3-Trimethyl-bicyclo-
[2.2.1]heptan-2-one1 LT
1,7,7-Trimethyl-bicyclo-
[2.2.1]heptan-2-one1 LT
205
-------
Table B-9.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Nash Road,
site 93, Wheatfield, N.Y., June 24, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-9. Concentrations are in yg/L and
yg/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number
Ground
1
water
(dupli-
cate)
Substrate
(split)
2
3
4
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
1,7 ,7-Trimethyl-bicyclo
[2.2.1]heptane-2,5-dione1 LT
3-(l,l-dimethylethyl)
phenol1 20
2-methylbenzo chloride1 LT
Diethyl phthalate1 6.2
Phosphoric acid
tributylester1 10
2(3H)-benzothiazolone LT
1,2,3,4,4a,9,10,lOa-
octahydro-1,4a-dimethyl-
7-(l-methyethyl)-[1R-
(1 alpha, 4a beta,
lOa alpha)]-
1-phenanthrenecarbox-
aldehyde1 LT
Cyclohexl phthalate1 LT
3,5-Dimethylphenol1
2-ethyl-4-phenol-.delta.
2-1,3^-oxadiazolin-S-one1 —
i
ri—butylbenzenesulf onamide —
3-(2-phenylethyl)phenol1
2H-l-benzopyran1 —
2-methylpentadecane1 —
4,8,12-Trimethyl-3,
7 ,11-tridecatriene-
nitrile1
o-methyloxime-3,5-dimethyl-
2-cyclohexen-l-one1 —
lococyclohexane1 —
N-[2-methyl-l-(l-methylethyl)
bitulidienejmethanamine1 —
(20**)
(LT**)
(—)
(8.0**)
(110**)
(60**)
(LT**)
(11**)
(100**)
(9.9**)
(LT**)
(LT**)
(LT**)
(LT**)
( —) 804
(--) 10,052
(—) 36,569 (--)
206
-------
Table B-9.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Nash Road,
site 93, Wheatfield, N.Y., June 24, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-9. Concentrations are in ug/L and
Mg/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number
Ground water Substrate
(dupli- (split)
cate) 2
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
N-(2-hydroethyl)-
dodecanamide1 -- (--) 16,342
l-(2-butenyl)-2,3-
dimethylbenzene1 — (—) 1,301
2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10-octahydri-
5-hydroxy-2,2,7,7,9-
pentamethyl-5,9-menthano-
benzocycloocten-4(lH)-one — (—) 6,294 (—)
10-methylisocosane1 — (—) LT (—)
Hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane1 — (—) — (—) — 1,300
OctamethyIcyclotetra-
siloxane1 — (—) — (—) — 5,440
Decamethylcyclopenta-
siloxane1 -- (—) — (—) — LT
Dodecamethylcyclohexa-
siloxane1 — (--) — (—) — 90.7
5-Methyl-3-hexen-2-one1 — (—) — (3,500)
Dichloromethylbenzene1 — (—) — (LT)
2-(1,1-Dimethyl)-4-
methylfuran1 — (—) — (183,000)
2,4-Dimethyl-2-pentene — (182,000)
3-Octanol1 — (45,000)
2,6-Bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)
naphthalene1 — (—) — (1,650)
1,1,4,5,5,8-Hexamethyl-S-
hydrindacene1 — (—) — (5,750)
2,6-Dimethyl-2,5-heptadien-
4-one1 — (—) — (—) 509
2-Methyl-2-octen-4-one1 — (—) — (—) 13,300
l,2,4-Trimethyl-5-(l-methyl-
ethenyDbenzene1 — (—) — (—) 159
Compounds potentially of natural origin
Heptadecane1 -- (LT**)
Octacosane1 — (LT**)
Nonadecane1 — (LT**)
3,8-Dimethylundecane1 — (LT**)
207
-------
103. R. P. ADAMS COMPANY (ITSGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDRC 915001
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The R. P. Adams Company
site, in the city of Tonawanda, was used as a parking lot on which waste oil
was applied at a rate of 165 gal/yr for dust control. Chemical results indi-
cate disposal of some hazardous materials.
Downward movement of contaminants through the extensive underlying clay is
unlikely. Horizontal migration may occur during periods of excessive
precipitation; but a more detailed investigation would be needed to confirm
this. The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of glacial lacustrine clay overlying
bedrock of Camillus Shale. Depth to bedrock is approximately 60 ft. The U.S.
Geological Survey drilled four test borings on the site in 1982; locations are
shown in figure B-12. The geologic logs are on p. 209.
78°53'38'
42°
faB'
48"
N
*
Not to scale
,\
m
0)
"0
01
7T
D
(D
V
Sheridan Drive
Fence
"• »1 x A X x x .2
• 3
Q- ^ ^
u
Property line
EXPLANATION
.2 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-12. Location of sampling holes at R. P. Adams Company,
site 103, Tonawanda.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered in the test drilling.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample at
each borehole for iron, lead, and organic-compound analyses; results are given
in table B-10. Substrate sample 4 showed eight organic priority pollutants in
concentrations at or above 3,500 ug/kg. Only fluoranthene was found in any
other sample (sample 3 at 640 ug/kg). The pollutants in sample 4 may be
associated with the rubble encountered during the test drilling.
208
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-5.0 Clay, red, dry except for
top 1 inch.
SAMPLE: 1 ft.
2 0-1.5 Clay, red, dry.
SAMPLE: 1 ft.
3 0-1.5 Clay, red, dry.
SAMPLE: 1 ft.
4 0-1.5 Topsoil and rubble
1.5 - 2.0 Same.
2.0 - 6.5 Clay, red, dry, tight.
SAMPLE: 1 ft.
Table B-10.—Analyses of substrate samples from R. P. Adams Co., site 103,
Tonawanda, N.Y., August 11, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-12. Concentrations are in ug/kg;
dashes indicate compound was not found.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(1.0) (1.0) (1.0) (1.0)
Inorganic constituents
Iron 3,400,000 2,800,000 2,500,000 2,400,000
Lead 30,000 10,000 30,000 20,000
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Fluoranthene — — 640 4,900
Phenanthrene — — — 5,700
Pyrene — — — 4,400
Benzo(a)anthracene — — — 3,500
Chrysene — — — 4,100
Benzo(b)f luoranthene — — — 5,750
Benzo(k)f luoranthene — — — 4,700
Benzo(a) pyrene — — — 4,850
Non-priority pollutant
1,1-Ethanediol,
diacetate1 — — 6,700
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
209
-------
105. ALLIED CHEMICAL, TONAWANDA (IISGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915003-b
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Allied Chemical
site, an area 40 ft in diameter in the western part of the town of Tonawanda,
was used during 1950-60 to dispose of an unknown quantity of scrap clorinated
and nonchlorinated polyethylene and spent catalyst.
Chemical data indicate migration of contaminants from the site, specifi-
cally chromium, lead, and nickel. The potential for contaminant migration
could be major, but additional information would be needed to confirm this.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a lacustrine clay deposit
overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four
test borings on the site in 1982; their locations are shown in figure B-13.
The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-2.5 Gravel fill.
2.5 - 9.5 Clay, debris, sand, dark green.
9.5 - 11.5 Clay, pink, tight and dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
2 0-3.5 Topsoil, black, wet.
3.5 - 11.5 Clay, pink, very dry. Moved a few
feet to redrill to 3.5 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 3 ft.
3 0-3.0 Very little if any topsoil. Went almost
immediately into red, dry clay.
3.0 - 5.0 Clay, gray-green, dry.
5.0 - 6.5 Clay, tan.
6.5 - 10.0 Clay, red, dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
4 0 - 4.3 Clay, red.
4.3 - 5.0 Clay, dark green.
5.0 - 6.0 Clay, yellowish, sandy.
6.0 - 6.5 Clay, red.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No substantial ground water was encountered in the
test boring. The upper part of the clay unit was moist, indicating the possi-
bility of a perched water table during periods of high precipitation. The
direction of ground-water flow is probably westward toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected four soil samples
for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, iron, lead, mercury, nickel, and organic-
compound analyses; results are given in table B-ll. Chromium and lead concen-
trations in samples 1 and 2 were above those in samples from undisturbed soils
in the Tonawanda area. The samples contained 21 organic priority pollutants
and 11 nonpriority pollutants.
210
-------
78° 56'
42°
58'
43"
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
_L
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-13, Location of sampling holes at Allied Chemiaal,
Tonatianda, site 105, Tonawanda.
Table B-ll.—Analyses of substrate samples from Allied Chemical, site 105,
Tonawanda, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. B-13. Concentrations are in pg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
First sampling (7-20-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
6.5 3.0 5.0 5.0
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
5
1
90
,200
170
60
,000
,000tt
,000
,000tt
20
,000
3
80
2,000
200
120
,000
,000t
,000
T
3
2,000
-
t
y
-
000
000
,000tt
—
,000
20
-
>
-
000
1
4
25,000
30
-
20
9
>
>
»
-
»
000
000
000
000
000
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Tonawanda area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
211
-------
Table B-ll.—Analyses of substrate samples from Allied Chemical, site 105,
Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. R-13. Concentrations are in ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number
Second sampling (5-19-83) LA 2A 3A 4A
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur1 450,000 360 — 580
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene 6.2
Tetrachloroethene 9.8 — —
Dieldrin — — LT LT
Aldrin — — — LT
Heptachlor — — — LT
Acenaphthene — *
Fluoranthene * * * —
Naphthalene * * *
Bis(2-ethylhexl) phthalate — — * *
Di-n-butyl phthalate — *
Benzo(a)anthracene * * * —
Benzo(a)pyrene * * *
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene * * * —
Chrysene * * *
Acenaphthylene — * —
Benzo(ghi)perylene — * *
Fluorene — * — .
Phenanthrene — * —
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene — * — —
Indeno(l,2,3-cd)pyrene — * *
Pyrene * * * —
Nonpriority pollutants
Carbon disulfide 26.6
0-xylene 3.6 — —
Dibenzofuran — * —
2-Methylnaphthalene — * — —
2-Chloro-transcyclo-
hexanol1 — *
9-Methylphenanthrene1 — * — —
3-Methylphenanthrene1 — *
4H-Cyclopenta(def)-
phenanthrene1 — * — —
2-Methylphenanthrene1 — *
1-Methylpyrene1 — *
Perylene* -- * ™ — ...
212
-------
106. ALLIED CHEMICAL, TONAWANDA (Literature review)
NYSDEC 915003-c
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Allied Chemical
site, in the western part of the town of Tonawanda, consisted of pools of coal
tar from spillage and leakage during product-transfer operations. The amount
is unknown. In 1981, the material was removed and new fill added (fig. B-14).
The site has an indeterminable potential for contaminant migration. The
chemical data indicate some contamination within the site hut given no evi-
dence of contaminant migration.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a lacustrine clay deposit
overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic information is available, but the con-
ditions are probably similar to those of adjacent site 10S. Oround-water flow
is probably toward the river.
Chemical information.—The company collected six soil samples from the fill
area and analyzed them for several organic compounds associated with the coal-
tar fill; results are shown in table B-12. Samples contained eight priority
pollutants, all below 100 yg/kg.
78° 55'40"
1
42°
58'
50"
Sampling depths below grade
Sample Depth
5ft
8ft
9ft
7ft
16ft
3ft
Test holes Approximate 3 ft to clay
X
b
.Buried transfer line
/ and wooden culvert
-++<-^+l II I I I I I-H
Railroad siding
Fence
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-14. Location of sampling holes at Allied Chemical,
Tonatfanda, site 106, Tonawanda.
213
-------
Table B-12.-
-Analyses of soil samples from Allied Chemical, site 106,
Tonawanda, N.Y.I
[Locations are shown in fig. B-14. Concentrations are in yg/kg,
Dashes indicate that compound was not found.2]
Sample number
Constituent 1
Acenaphtene —
Acenaphthylene —
Fluorene —
Naphthalene —
Phenanthrene/
anthracene —
Phenol —
2,4 Dimethylphenol
2
22
—
18
—
14
14
76
345
61
13
84
65
98 — 15
— — —
— — —
6
—
__
—
—
—
Data from Allied Chemical Fibers and Plastics Company, Tonawanda, N.Y.
2 Limit of detection = 10 ug/kg
108. TONAWANDA COKE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915055-a
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Tonawanda Coke
site, adjacent to the Niagara River in the town of Tonawanda, was used for
general landfilling with fly ash, cinders, and tar sludges during 1Q30-79.
The rate of disposal on the site was 4,680 tons/yr.
The information collected does not conclusively indicate contaminant
migration. Although one ground-water sample indicates a cyanide concentration
of 280 ug/L, two substrate samples downgradient did not contain cyanide.
Substrate samples collected near the riverbank in 1983 contained high con-
centrations of organic priority pollutants. Additional sampling and chemical
analyses would be needed to confirm the migration of contaminants. Proximity
of this site to the river implies a major potential for contaminant migration.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a glacial
lacustrine clay, which in turn overlies bedrock of Camillus Shale.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three test borings on the site in 1982;
the locations are shown in figure B-15. The geologic logs are on page 215.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered at 11 to 12 ft below
land surface. The probable direction of ground-water flow is toward the
Niagara River.
214
-------
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0
4
6,
9,
4.0
6.5
9.0
11.5
11.5 - 16.5
0
2
3.5
6.0
2.0
3.5
6.0
11.5
_ Description _
Topsoil, fill.
Clay, some sand, dry, dark green.
Clay, some sand, olive green.
Clay, dark green, almost blue, wet
right at bottom, sandy.
Clay, olive green, tight
SAMPLE: 15.5 - 16.5
ft
Topsoil.
Black organic soil.
Clay, sandy, black dry.
Fly ash, cinders, black, wet
SAMPLE: 6.0 ft.
0
2
8
2.0
8.0
11.5
Topsoil.
Clay, red, tight, sandy, dry.
Plack, organic, mixed with red clay.
SAMPLE: 8.0 ft.
78° 56' 10
42°
58'
42'
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Surface-water sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-15. Location of sampling holes and surface sample at
Tonawanda Coke, sites 108, 109, and 110, Tonauanda.
215
-------
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected one ground-water sample
and two soil samples from the boreholes on the site and a surface-water sample
from a drainage ditch near the Niagara River. Each sample was analyzed for
cyanide, iron, and organic compounds; results are given in table B-13.
Iron exceeded the USEPA criterion for drinking water and New York State
ground-water standard in both water samples, and cyanide exceeded the cri-
terion and standard in sample 1. Substrate samples contained 17 organic
priority pollutants; vinyl chloride concentration was 2,100 ug/kg. Also 12
nonpriority pollutants and some unknown hydrocarbons were found.
Table B-13.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and substrate samples from
Tonawanda Coke, site 108, Tonawanda, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. B-15. Concentrations are in ug/L and
Ug/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number and depth
below land surface (
ft)
Ground water Substrates Surface water
First sampling (7-13-82)
PH
Specific conductance
1 2
(16.5) (6.0)
6.8
1,480
3 4
(8.0)
7
1,020
.2
(umho/cm)
Temperature (°C) 12.0 26.2
Inorganic constituents
Cyanide 280t — — 30
Iron 170,000t 9,500,000 5,^00,000 2,400t
Organic compounds
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethyl phthalate LT
Benzoic acid LT
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were above or below the acceptance limits.
216
-------
Table B-13.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and substrate samples from
Tonawanda Coke, site 108, Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-15. Concentrations are in ug/L and
Ug/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number
Substrates
Second sampling (5-24-83)
2A
3A
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur1
Organic Compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
1 ,2-Trans-dichloroethene
Ethylbenzene
Methylene chloride
Tetrachloroethene
Toluene
Vinyl chloride
Acenaphthene
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Bis(2-ethylhexl) phthalate
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene
Acenaphthylene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
Acetone
Carbon disulfide
0-xylene
Dibenzofuran
2-Methylnaphthalene
2 ,3-Dihydro-lH-indene1
IH-Indene1
Cyclohexane1
Methylcyclopentane1
1,1,3-Trimethyl-cyclohexane1
2 ,2 ,3 ,4-Tetramethylpentane1
l-Ethyl-3-methyl-trans-cyclopentane1
2,6,6-Trimethyl-bicyclo-
(3.1.1)hepten-2-ene1
Unknown hydrocarbons1
11,000
32.2**
28.5**
45.0**
16.1**
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
44.2**
126**
*
*
*
*
134**
468**
150**
33.0**
363**
2,180**
352**
247**
530**
*
*
*
*
*
217
-------
109. TONAWANDA COKE (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDFC 915055
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Tonawanda Coke
site, in the town of Tonawanda, was used as a general landfill for bricks,
rubble, and demolition material during 1930-78. The quantity of material
disposed of is unknown.
The potential for vertical migration through the extensive clay unit
underlying the site is probably limited. Data are insufficient to evaluate
horizonal migration from the site; therefore the contaminant-migration poten-
tial is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a glacial
lacustrine clay that is in turn underlain by bedrock of Camillas Shale.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three test borings on the site in 1982;
the locations are shown in figure B-15. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-2.5 Black organic topsoil and gravel.
2.5 - 11.5 Clay, red, very dry.
NO SAMPLE (no permeable zone below surface).
2 0-3 Topsoil.
3 - 10 Clay, greenish, sandy, some water
right at bottom.
10 - 16.5 Clay, red, tight.
WATER SAMPLE: 11 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5.5 ft.
3 0-1.5 Black fill.
1.5 - 5.0 Clay, sandy, brown-red.
5.0 - 16.5 Clay, reddish, tight, dry.
NO SAMPLE (no permeable zone below surface).
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered at approximately 10 ft
below land surface. The probable direction of ground-water flow is westward
toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a ground-water
sample, a soil sample, and a surface-water sample in 1982, and three substrate
samples in 1983. The ground-water and soil samples were analyzed for organic
compounds; the surface-water sample was analyzed for several inorganic and
organic compounds. Results are given in table B-14. In the surface-water
sample, chromium, iron, and lead exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking water,
and one organic priority pollutant was found. In the substrate samples, 21
organic priority pollutants, 16 organic nonpriority pollutants, one possibly
naturally occurring organic compound, and some unknown hydrocarbons were
found. The pH of the surface-water sample was very low.
218
-------
Table B-14.—Analyses of surface-water, ground-water and substrate samples from
Tonawanda Coke, site 109, Tonawanda, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. B-15. Concentrations are in ug/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Surface water Ground water
1 2
First sampling (7-14-82) (0.2) (11.0)
pH 3.2 6.8
Specific conductance 3,000 1,600
(umho/cm)
Temperature (°C) 21.0 13.0
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum 1,300
Antimony
Arsenic
Barium 284
Beryllium —
Cadmium 3
Chromium 1,1OOt
Cobalt 65
Copper 724
Iron 280,0001
Lead 120t
Manganese 5,040
Mercury 0.3
Nickel 244
Selenium —
Silver
Tellurium —
Vanadium —
Zinc 192
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Di-n-butyl phthalate LT
Nonpriority pollutant
1,2-dimethylbenzene1 26
Compound potentially of natural origin
5.0
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. CC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water.
219
-------
Table B-14.—Analyses of surface-water, ground-water and substrate samples from
Tonawanda Coke, site 109, Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-15. Concentrations are in Mg/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Substrates
Second sampling (5-24-83)
1A
(2.0)
2A
(4.0)
3A
(3.0)
Inorganic constituent
Molecular sulfur1
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
Toluene
a-BHC
Acenaphthene
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Bis(2-ethylhexl) phthalate
Butylbenzl phthalate
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Diethyl phthalate
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene
Chrysene
Acenaphthylene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene
1,900
5.7**
3.9**
*
*
*
*
8.3
LT
LT
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
LT
8.2**
LT
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were above or below the acceptance limits.
220
-------
Table B-14.—Analyses of surface-water, ground-water and substrate samples from
Tonawanda Coke, site 109, Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-15. Concentrations are in Ug/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Substrates
Second sampling (5-24-83)
1A
(2.0)
2A
(4.0)
3A
(3.0)
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants
Carbon disulfide
o-Xylene
Benzole acid
2-Methylphenol
Dibenzofuran
2-Methylnaphthalene
1 ,3-Dimethylbenzene1
1,4-Dimethylbenzene1
1-Methylnaphthalene1
1 ,8-Dimethylnaphthalene1
1 ,6,7-Trimethylnaphthalene1
7-Octadecanol
Hexadecanol1
Hexadecanoic acid1
2-Octadecanol1
Perylene1
9-Methylphenanthrene
Unknown hydrocarbons1
Unknown PAH1
Compound potentially of natural origin
2 ,6-Dimethylundecane1
2.9**
*
33.4
LT
*
*
37.9**
5.3**
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
221
-------
110. TONAWANDA COKE (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915055-c
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Tonawanda Coke
site, in the western part of the town of Tonawanda, was used as a general
landfill for spent iron oxide and wood shavings during 1930-78. The rate of
disposal on the site was 728 tons/yr.
All samples were taken from the fill area. The potential for contaminant
migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a glacial
lacustrine clay that inturn overlies a bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S.
Geological Survey drilled three test borings on the site in 1982; the loca-
tions are shown in figure B-15 (p. 215). The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.0 Coke dust and debris.
1 -2.0 Black organic material, water.
2.0 - 5.0 Clay, reddish pink.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
2 0-4 Coke dust mixed with soil.
4 - 6.5 Clay, reddish pink.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
3 0-4 Topsoil and coke debris.
4-8 Coke debris, wet.
8 - 11.5 Clay, rust colored.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered at depths ranging from 2
to 8 ft below land surface. The probable direction of ground-water flow is
toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected three soil samples
for organic-compound analyses; results are shown in table B-15. The samples
contained 27 priority pollutants and more than 18 nonpriority pollutants. The
samples were held longer than the 7-day limit before organic compounds were
extracted, so the concentrations may have been higher than indicated. The
samples also contained 17 organic nonpriority pollutants and some unknown
hydrocarbons.
222
-------
Table B-15.—Analyses of substrate samples from Tonawanda Coke, site 110,
Tonawanda, N.Y., May 24, 1983.
[Locations shown in fig. B-15. Concentrations are in ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 (split) 2 3
(4.0) (4.0) (4.0)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Acrolein
Benzene
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
Cis,l,3-Dichloropropene
Ethylbenzene
Methylene chloride
Toluene
Dieldrin
Heptachlor epoxide
Acenaphthene
3,4-Dinitrotoluene
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
N-nitrosodidiphenylamine
Bis(2-ethylhexl) phthalate
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Di-n-octyl phthalate
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene
Chrysene
Acenaphthylene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
D ibenzo(a,h)anthracene
Indeno(l,2,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene
LT
64.0**
LT
LT
81.4**
5.97**
22**
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
A
*
*
( —)
(--)
(10.8**)
(83.9**)
(21.0**)
(31)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
(*)
3,560**
737**
314**
1,420**
77.1**
3.0**
5.9**
160**
16.8**
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were above or below the acceptance limits.
223
-------
Table B-15.—Analyses of substrate samples from Tonawanda Coke, site 110,
Tonawanda, N.Y., May 24, 1983 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-15. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 (split) 2 3
(4.0) (4.0) (4.0)
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants
Acetone — (164**) 379**
Carbon disulfide 180** (614**) 620** 161**
Diethyl phthalate — (*)
2-Hexanone ~ (--) — 17.1**
4-Methyl-2-pentanone — (—) — 6.3**
Styrene -- (—) 86.1**
0-xylene 4.7** (25.5**) 238** 17.1**
4-Chloroaniline * (—)
Dibenzofuran — (*) — *
2-Methylnaphthalene * (*) — *
4-Methylphenanthrene1 — (*)
Tetrahydrofuran1 — (—) — *
Perylene — (*)
1-Methylnaphthalene1 * (—)
1,8-Dimethylnaphthalene1 * (—)
Thiophene1 — (—) *
2-Methylbutane1 — (—) — *
Cyclohexane1 — (—) — *
Unknown hydrocarbons1 * (*)
111. ALUMINUM MATCH PLATE CORPORATION (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915005
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Aluminum Match
Plate Corporation site, a 1-acre area in the city of Tonawanda, was used to
dispose of an unknown quantity of molding sand with phenolic binder and alumi-
num grindings.
The potential for the downward movement of contaminants is probably small
because of the thick clay below. Chemical data give no indication of horizon-
tal migration. The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of glacial lacustrine clay overlying
bedrock of Camillus Shale. The shale is about 60 ft below land surface.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings on the site in 1982;
the locations are shown in figure B-16. The geologic logs are as follows:
224
-------
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 1.0
1.0 - 4.0
4.0 - 8.5
Description
Topsoil with clay cap.
Clay, sandy, gray-green.
Clay, red, dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 3.0 ft.
0
-1.5
1.5 - 2.0
2.0 - 2.5
Topsoil, black.
Clay, yellow.
Clay, red, tight.
SOIL SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
3 0-1.5 Topsoil, black.
1.5 - 5.0 Clay, red.
SOIL SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
4 0 - 2.0 Topsoil, black.
2.0 - 5.0 Clay, red.
SOIL SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
Hydrologic information. — No ground water was encountered in the test borings
nor in previous test drilling along Military Road (pi. 2), and no ground water
was encountered to a depth of 16 ft.
Chemical information. — The U.S. Geological Survey collected four soil samples
from the boreholes for iron, mercury, and phenols analyses; results are given
in table B-16. Only iron was detected.
42°
58'
T 1
f
f Sheridan Drive
r «2 V
/,'"'?' '
f 'WfCpr,«l 1 «
f site
f ^
1 ?
1 I
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
V1 Test boring and
substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-16. Location of sampling holes at Aluminum Match
Plate Corporation, site 111, Tonaaanda.
225
-------
Table B-16.—Analyses of substrate samples from Aluminum Match Plate, site 111,
Tonawanda, N.Y., July 20, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-16. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
Organic compounds
Phenol
Sample number and depth
1 2
3.0 1.5
11,000,000 13,000,000
— — —
— —
below land surface (ft)
3 4
1.5 1.5
11,000,000 8,200,000
— —
— —
114. ASHLAND PETROLEUM COMPANY (Literature review)
NYSDEC 915061
General information and chemical-migration potential.—This site, in the northern
part of the town of Tonawanda, is a solid-waste landfill containing spent lime,
clay, wood, concrete, metal, and phosphoric acid catalysts. The potential for
contaminant migration is indeterminable because data are lacking.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings on
the site in 1975. The geologic logs indicated bedrock (Camillus Shale) at
approximately 80 ft below grade. Overlying the bedrock is a sequence of silt
and clay layers with occasional embedded gravel.
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic information is available.
Chemical information.—No chemical data are available, and no monitoring has
been proposed.
115. ASHLAND PETROLEUM COMPANY (Literature review)
NYSDEC 915008c
General information and chemical-migration potential.—This site, received low-
level radioactive material during 1944-46. Approximately 8,000 tons of uranium
ore tailings containing 0.54 percent uranium was spread over the area to a depth
of 2 ft.
No data are available to determine contaminant migration by ground-water
movement. However, the chemical analyses of water from adjacent drainage
ditches indicate the presence of some heavy metals and low-level radiation,
which indicates possible offsite migration by surface runoff. The potential
for contaminant migration in ground water is indeterminable.
226
-------
Geologic information.—The site is underlain by glacial lacustrine clay of
unknown thickness that in turn overlies bedrock of Camillus Shale. No geo-
logic test borings have been made.
Hydrologic information.—No ground-water data are available. Surface water
flows from the site into drainage ditches and culverts, which drain into Two
Mile Creek, a tributary to the Niagara River (pi. 2).
Chemical information.—The U.S. Energy Research and Development Administration
(ERDA) and the Erie County Department of Environmental Planning (ECDEP) have
collected and analyzed several surface-water and soil samples.
In 1976, ERDA collected nine mud samples and eight water samples from
drainage ditches upgradient and downgradient of this site. The mud samples
were analyzed for uranium 238, and the water samples for radium 226, uranium
234, 235, 238, and thorium 228, 230, and 232. The results indicated low-level
radiation and contamination of soils in the area.
In June 1981, ECDEP collected four water samples from the drainage ditches
leading downstream from the site and analyzed them for heavy metals and
selected organic compounds and tested for alpha, beta, and gamma radiation.
Results supported the ERDA data, confirming the migration of low-level
radiation from the site through the drainage areas. The levels of radiation
in the drainage ditches are significantly below Nuclear Regulatory Commission
standards.
\
116. ASHLAND PETROLEUM COMPANY (Literature review) NYSDFC 915008-a
General information and chemical-migration potential^—This site, in the
northern part of the town of Tonawanda, was a weathering area for tetraethyl
lead sludges in 1953. The area used was 10 ft x 30 ft. The site was well con-
tained, and no leachate was present upon surficial inspection. Owner represen-
tatives indicated that lead sludge had been excavated and disposed of offsite
after the lead had weathered for several years. The site probably poses no
hazards, and no monitoring has been proposed. The potential for contaminant
migration is indeterminable.
117. ASHLAND PETROLEUM COMPANY (Literature review) NYSDEC 915008-b
General information and chemical-migration potential.—This site, in the
northern part of the town of Tonawanda, has been a storage pit for sediments,
oil sludges, and chemical-spill recovery. The area is a concrete storage pit
280 ft wide and 220 ft long. No monitoring has been proposed for the site, and
the potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
227
-------
123. COLUMBUS MCKINNON CORPORATION (Literature review)
NYSftEC QlSOlfS
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Columbus McKinnon
Corporation site, in the city of Tonawanda, was used during 1930-65 to dispose
of 27,000 gallons of water-soluble waste-cutting oils in an open pit 20 ft by
20 ft adjacent to Ellicott Creek (fig. B-17). The area has since been covered
with soil and graded.
The geology, direction of ground-water flow, and results of the chemical
analyses indicate a major potential for contaminant migration toward Fllicott
Creek, but the rate of migration has not been determined. Additional infor-
mation would be needed to determine the rate of movement in both the saturated
and unsaturated zone.
78° 52'11"
43°
00'
56"
« »— — x )c —
Offices
— X- k
8"4 o
10ft
-1-D
• 1 Soi
D Riv
1
Shop area
i
8.
Concrete pad
>->
/
/ *z ^ OH
/ J storage
( 6 r bldg
.9 y .4 ^
V^^^-^z
.7 '5
-x x „ Fence
"- * * «- «-— ••- — i
-l/icott Creek r, ' ~T
•* — Flow direction °
10
EXPLANATION
I sampling location
0 10 2
er sediment-sample location ""' " *"
t
:
:
1
[.
—
nfT
ft
--O
DFEET
Base from CM Chain, 1982
Figure B-17.
Location of sampling holes at Columbus MaKinnon
Corporation, site 123, Tonawanda.
228
-------
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying silt and fine sand.
No deep test holes were drilled on the site, but the underlying bedrock is
assumed to be Camillus Shale. Nine shallow test borings were drilled to a
depth of 8 ft in 1981; all indicated only fill or fill overlying silt and fine
sand.
Hydrologic information.—No information was obtained from the borehole-
drilling program. However, the direction of ground-water flow is probably
toward Ellicott Creek.
Chemical information.—CM Chain collected several soil samples for poly-
chlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) and total halogenated organics (THO) analysis.
Locations of the boreholes are shown in figure B-17; results are given in
tables B-17 and B-18. CM Chain also collected four stream-sediment samples
for PCB and THO analysis; results are given in table B-19.
Source of data.—CM CHAIN, Division Columbus McKinnon Corporation, 1982,
Closure plans for inactive landfill site, Tonawanda, New York: CM Chain,
22 p., 6 tables, 3 figs.
Table B-17.—Total polychlorinated biphenyl concentration in soil samples from
Colombus McKinnon Corporation, site 123, Tonawanda, N.Y.I
[Locations are shown in fig. B-17; concentrations are in ug/kg.
Dashes indicate that samples were not taken.]
Depth of
sample
(ft)
1 2
3
Borehole number
4567
8
9
0.0 124,100 1,610 164,000 78,800 2,560 59,800 1,290 <500 125,000
0.42 - 2.0 — — — 459,000
1.0-1.8 — -- — — 201,000
.84 - 1.68 — — — — — 13,600
1.0 - 2.0 — 217,000
1.25 - 2.5 — — -- — — -- 549,000
2.0 - 4.0 — — — — — — — — 8,940
2.0 - 4.5 — — 250
3.3 - 3.5 — — — — — -- — 210
4.0-4.5 — — — — 27,600
4.0 - 5.5 — 74,300 -- 165,000 — 7,100 53,00 — 560
3.5-5.5 — — — — — — — 150
4.5-5.5 — — 310
5.5 - 7.0 — 49,100 230 141,000 17,100 — 58,800 360 40
5.5-7.6 — — — — — 6,050
Data from CM CHAIN, Division of Columbus McKinnon Corporation
2 Refusal due to concrete
229
-------
Table B-18.—Concentrations1 of total halogenated organic compounds (THO)
in soil samples from Columbus McKinnon Corporation, site 123,
Tonawanda, N.Y.2 (Except for borehole 1, THO was from composite
of samples from each borehole).
[Locations are shown in fig. R-17. Concentrations are in
yg/kg.]
Borehole
number
1
2
3
4
5
Total
halogenated
organics
14,900
14,600
4,300
19,000
2,600
Borehole
number
6
7
8
q
Total
halogenated
organics
1,200
3,400
<100
4,000
1 Total halogenated organics (THO) qualitative scan
is used as an approximation of halogenated compounds
based on a lindane standard curve.
2 Data from CM CHAIN, Division of Columbus McKinnon
Corporation.
Table B-19.—Concentration of polychlorinated biphenyls and total
halogenated organic compounds in soil samples from
Columbus McKinnon Corporation, site 123, Tonawanda, N.Y.I
[Concentrations are in pg/kg. Locations are shown in
fig. B-17.]
Sample location
Upstream and 5.
Upstream and 15
Downstream and
Downstream and
0 ft from bank
.0 ft from bank
5.0 ft from bank
15.0 ft from bank
Total
polychorinated
biphenyls
130,000
113,000
<390
570
Total
halogenated
organics
21,300
27,400
37,000
52,000
Data obtained from CM CHAIN, Division of Columbus McKinnon Corporation.
230
-------
125, 126 and 127.
DUNLOP TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY
(USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915018a,b,c
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Dunlop Tire and
Rubber Company site, in the town of Tonawanda, consists of three disposal
areas within the same property. Site 125 was a disposal site for construction
and demolition material; site 126 received an unknown quantity of scrap rubber
products, carbon black, sulfur, amines, and general refuse; and site 127
received coal cinders at a rate of 4,000 tons/yr during 1923-73.
The potential for vertical migration through the underlying clay to deeper
units is probably limited. Additional sampling would be needed to evaluate
horizontal migration of leachate from the sites. The potential for con-
taminant migration is indeterminable. The company has started a site investi-
gation as a result of their chemical testing.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a glacial
lacustrine clay that overlies bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological
Survey drilled four test borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown
in figure B-18. The geologic logs are on page 232.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered in the unconsolidated
material above the unsaturated clay, which indicates a perched water table.
The probable direction of ground-water flow is tdward the Niagara River.
78° 55'09"
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Electromagnetic survey traverse
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-18.
Location of sampling holes and eleetromagnetie-conduetivity
survey lines at Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company, sites 125,
126, and 127, Tonawanda.
231
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.5 nark organic soils.
1.5 - 4.0 Same.
4.0 - 6.5 Clay, brown, some sand, hit gravel at
6 to 6.5 ft.
6.5 - 11.5 Clay, pinkish, dry.
11.5 - 16.5 Same.
SAMPLE: 1.8 ft.
2 0-1.5 Black organic topsoil, wet.
1.5 - 2.0 Same.
2.0 - 4.0 Clay, sandy, yellowish.
4.0 - 6.5 Clay, brownish-pink.
6.5 - 10.0 Same.
SAMPLE: 1 ft.
3 0-1.0 Black organic topsoil.
1.0 - 3.0 Black and white organic zone
3.0 - 16.5 Clay, reddish, some sand, dry
16.5 - 21.5 Clay.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
4 0-1.5 Brown/black organic topsoil, some rocks.
1.5 - 4.0 Clay, reddish brown, with well-rounded and
polished pebbles.
4.0 - 6.5 Hard zone at 4 ft—went through fairly easily;
hit another about 5.5 ft. Returns indicate
gravel zone.
6.0 - 11.5 Same, becoming sandy last 2 to 3 ft.
11.5 - 17.0 Same, hit brown clay at about 17 ft.
SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected a soil sample from each
borehole for organic-compound analysis and split each with representatives of
the site owner for private analysis. The site owner's results are given in
table B-20. The Geological Survey data were lost, and the site was not resampled,
Table B-20.—Analyses of soil samples from Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company,
sites 125, 126, and 127, Tonawanda, N.Y., July 19821
[Locations are shown in fig. B-18; concentrations are in
yg/kg.]
Sample number
Constituent
Total volatile organic
halogens
Total Kjedahl nitrogen
Phenol
1
1,070
1,680,000
188
2
351
708,000
219
3
448
747,000
194
4
82
673,000
196
Data from Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company, Tonawanda, NY.
232
-------
Electromagnetic survey.—The Geological Survey conducted an electromagnetic
survey with five traverses in November 1982. Locations are shown in figure
B-18; the data are plotted in figure B-19.
The location of line 1 is controlled primarily by the railroad tracks.
Even the first 50 ft of the line are clearly within an area of artificial
fill, which shows even more clearly in line 2 (p. 234). The values in the
vicinity of the 250-ft mark (near 1,000 ymho/m) were the highest recorded
during the entire study. Line 2 ends in the middle of the swamp and has con-
ductivity values above those expected for uncontaminated materials, which
suggests the presence of leachate.
The beginning of line 3 also shows evidence of artificial fill, but near-
background values begin within 200 ft and persist for 200 ft. Beyond that
point, conductivity values rise slightly.
Line 4 (p. 234) shows clear evidence of a buried conductor (probably
metallic) just beyond 200 ft, beyond which is a zone of natural conductivity
values. This does not necessarily mean that the ground there is uncon-
taminated because not all contaminants change the local conductivity. Near
the parking-lot fence, the values again indicate artificial fill.
Line 5 (p. 235), run within 20 ft of the parking-lot fence, indicates
buried material that differs from that along lines 3 and 4. At the 450-ft
mark, conductivities are almost as high as the highest values in line 2, which
suggests that the waste material underlying lines 2 and 5 may be similar.
Background conductivity
125
250
Background conductivity
250
500
DISTANCE, IN FEET
Figure B-19. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at Dunlop
Tire and Rubber Company, sites 125, 126, and 127, Tonawanda,
lines I and 3.
233
-------
CONDUCTIVITY, IN MILLMHOS PER METER
o
o
NJ
UJ
-C-
m
en
o
-------
250
225
DC
200
e
o- 175
to
O
I
-. 150
^ 125
p 100
O
Q
O
O
75
50
25
420 600
_J L
Line 5
250
Background conductivity
J_
500
750
DISTANCE, IN FEET
Figure B-19 (continued). Results of eleatromagnetia-eonduetivity survey
at Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company, sites 125, 126, and 127,
Tonawanda, line 5.
128. DUPONT COMPANY (USGS reconnaissance)
NYSDEC P15019
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Dupont Company
site, in the town of Tonawanda, consists of six excavated pits that were
filled with various materials during 1921-78. The types and quantity of
buried material are as follows:
cellulosic-ulicose, rayon, cellophane, and sponges
dry "Corian" waste
polyvinyl alcohol film
wet "Corian" waste
"Vexar" netting
dry "Tedlar" polyvinyl fluoride film
"Tedlar" with dimethylacetamide
nylon shutters and water-based paints
miscellaneous laboratory chemicals and foundry
sand from an automobile manufacturing plant
80,000 tons
5,000 tons
100 tons
1,500 tons
1,500 tons
750 tons
1,000 tons
75 tons
1 ton
235
-------
Data collected in August 1982 Indicate a limited potential for contaminant
migration. No definite organic leachate plume is evident, but additional data
would be needed to confirm its absence. If such a plume exists, its downward
movement through the underlying clay would probably be slow. The potential
for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of approximately 40 ft of glacio-
lacustrine clay overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The site owner drilled
seven monitoring wells (fig. B-20), but no geologic logs are available.
Hydrologic information.—Water levels in six of the seven monitoring wells
average 6.5 ft below land surface; in well 3, the water level was more than 20
ft below land surface.
Permeability tests were run on three samples of undisturbed clay. Results
indicate relatively low permeability ranging from 1.08 x 10~^ to 1.60 x
10~8 cm/s.
78° 54'34"
42°
58'
16'
Access Rd
• 3
Landfi
• 5
• 6
Not to seal e
EXPLANATION
• 5
Monitoring wells installed
by property owners
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-20, Location of monitoring wells at Dupont Company,
site 128, Tonawanda.
Chemical information.—Chemical analyses of water samples from monitoring
wells by the site owner indicate that concentrations of sulfate, chloride,
dissolved barium, dissolved lead, and dissolved mercury exceed the TTSEPA cri-
terion for drinking water.
In August 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey sampled the seven wells for
organic compounds; results are given in table B-21. Although no organic
priority pollutants were detected, 30 nonpriority pollutants, 7 possibly
naturally occurring compounds, and 1 possible artifact were detected.
236
-------
Table B-21.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Dupont Company, site 128,
Tonawanda, N.Y., August 18, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-20. Concentrations are in ug/L;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit,
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
123 (dupli- 4
(5.3) (4.1) (21.0) cate) (5.3)
pH 7.0 7.2 7.3 6.8
Specific conductance (umho/cm) 4,900 6,700 1,000 3,125
Temperature (°C) 15.0 17.5 12.0 16.0
Organic compounds
Nonpriority pollutants
3,3-dimethylbutanoic acid1 — — () 7.5
1,3-dimethylbenzene1 — () LT
1,4-dimethylbenzene1 — — () LT
1,1,2-trimethylcyclohexane1 — — () 15
1,2,3-trimethylcyclohexane1 — — () 6.6
2,2-dimethylcyclohexanone1 — — (~~) LT
2,3-dimethylcyclohexanone1 — — () LT
3,4-dimethyl-2-hexanone1 — — () 18
3,4,5-trimethyl-2-cyclopenten-
1-one1 — (") LT
3-methyl-(Z)-2-hexene1 — ~ ~ C) LT
3-methyl-(E)-l,3,5-
hexatriene1
2,3,4-Trimethyl-2-
cyclopenten-1-one1 — — — ( ) I20
1 _ f —^ T T
Benzothiazole1 — ^~ ' LlL
1,1,2-trimethylcyclopropane1 — — () H
2-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]
ethanol1 ™ — () 9.6
4-butoxybutanoic acid1 — — () LT
2-methylbenzene sulfonamide1 — — — (") H
3-ethyl-2-methyl-l,3-
hexadiene1 — — — (--) 8.1
Compounds potentially of natural origin
3-hexanone1 — — (--) LT
2-hexanone1 — () LT
3-methyl-cyclopentanone1 — — — (—) LT
Possible artifact
4-methyl-3-hepten-2-one1 — II (—) LT
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
237
-------
Table B-21.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Dupont Company, site 128,
Tonawanda, N.Y., August 18, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-20. Concentrations are in yg/L;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
5 6 7
(6.0) (5.4) (3.9)
pH 6.8 6.9 7.0
Specific conductance (umho/cm) 1,680 700 6,600
Temperature (°C) 18.0 6.0 16.5
Organic compounds
Nonpriority pollutants
Bis-2,2'[methylenebis(oxy)] butane1 5
Phenol,2-methoxyAcetate1 LT
1-1(1,1'-dimethylethoxy)-
4-methoxybenzene 14 — —
2,6-dimethyl-4-heptanone1 — 6
1-(1,l'-dimethlethyl)-4-
methylbenzene1 — 5
2,6,10,15-tetramethylheptadecane1 — 7
2-methylbenzenamine1 — — 185
Trans-4-chlorocyclohexanol1 — — 21
1,3,3-trimethylbicyclo-
[2.2.1]heptan-2-one1 — — 12
1,7,7-trimethylbicyclo-
[2.2.1] heptan-2-one1 — — 7
1,3-Dihydro-2H-imidazo-
[4,5-b]pyridin-2-one1 — — LT
Compounds potentially of natural origin
Octacosane — 8 —
Hexacosane — 8 —
Tridecane1 — LT
Hydrocarbon1 - LT
5,7-dimethylundecane1 — 7 —
238
-------
130. EXOLON CORPORATION (Literature review) NYSDEC 915023
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The ExoIon Company, on
East Niagara Street in the City of Tonawanda, manufactures aluminum oxide and
silicon carbide abrasives for grinding wheels and general industrial use. The
company was reported to have disposed of refractory bricks, iron tailings, and
coal cinders in a low area of approximately 1.5 acres.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable from the data
available.
Geologic information.—The soils are lacustrine silt, sand, and clay deposits.
The site has one well, which is reported to be 140 ft deep. Information pro-
vided by the site owner indicates the following geologic log:
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 4 sandy loam
4 - 80 clay and silt
80 - 86 sand
86 - 140 bedrock (Camillus Shale)
Hydrologic information.—Ground-water data are scant. Depth to water has been
reported to be approximately 4 ft. The water table probably fluctuates season-
ally during spring and other wet periods. Horizontal flow would be greatest
during these periods, particularly in the sandy loam. The direction of flow
would probably be northward toward the Erie-Barge Canal. Ground water could
flow vertically through the sandy loam but would be impeded by the deeper clay
and silt layer.
Chemical information,—No chemical information is available, and no monitoring
has been planned.
131. FMC CORPORATION (USGS field reconnaissance)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The FMC Corporation
site, in the town of Tonawanda, contains disposal pits for approximately 100
tons of persulfates, perborates, sodium carbonate peroxide, hydrogen peroxide,
peracetic acid, calcium and zinc peroxide, magnesium, urea, pyrophosphate, and
dipicolinic acid. The site was in operation from 1964-76. The pits have
since been closed.
The potential for downward migration is probably limited by the underlying
clay unit. The potential for offsite lateral migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a glacial lacustrine deposit
overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The depth to bedrock is greater than
60 ft.
239
-------
The Geological Survey drilled four test borings in 1QR2; the locations are
shown in figure B-21. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft)
1 0-0.5
0.5 - 6.5
0 - 2.0
2.0 - 3.0
3.0 - 11.5
0 - 2.5
2.5 - 3.5
3.5 - 6.5
Description
Topsoil.
Clay, reddish, dry, tight.
Note: Moved forward and took 0.5
sample with hand auger.
Clay, red, "cap"?
Sand, some clay, dark green, wet.
Clay, reddish.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
Clay, red, some fill and gravel.
Clay, dark green, some sand, damp.
Clay, red, dry, tight.
SAMPLE: 2.0 ft?
0 - 2.5 Clay, red.
2.5 - 3.0 Clay, dark green.
3.0 - 3.5 Clay, red, tight. Hit hard material
at 3.5 ft.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
EXPLANATION
2 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-21. Location of sampling holes at FMC Corporation,
site 131, Tonawanda.
240
-------
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered in the test borings.
The moist material encountered in borehole 2 can be attributed to a buried
water main that was leaking at the time of drilling.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a substrate sample
from each borehole for iron and zinc analysis in 1982 and for organic com-
pounds in 1983. Results are given in table B-22. The samples contained 18
organic priority pollutants, 23 organic nonpriority pollutants, and some
unknown hydrocarbons.
Table B-22.—Analyses of substrate samples from FMC, site 131, Sawyer Street,
Tonawanda, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. B-21. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
First sampling (08-04-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(0.5) (2.5) (2.5) (2.5)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Zinc
Second sampling (08-19-83)
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur
160,000
1,000
470,000
17,000
410,000
29,000
370,000
13,000
Sample number
1A
2A
3A
4A
10,000
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Acenaphthene
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Bis(2-ethylhexl) phthalate
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Di-n-octyl phthalate
Benzo(a)anthracene
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified—Holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
241
-------
Table B-22.—Analyses of substrate samples from FMC, site 131, Sawyer Street,
Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-21. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number
Second sampling (08-19-83) 1A 2A 3A 4A
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Benzo(a)pyrene * * * *
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene * — * *
Chrysene * * * *
Acenaphthylene *
Anthracene * * *
Benzo(ghi)perylene * * * *
Fluorene * * *
Phenanthrene * * *
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene * * * *
Indeno(l,2,3-cd)pyrene * * * *
Pyrene * * * *
Nonpriority pollutants
Dibenzofuran * * * *
2-Methylnaphthalene * * *
Benzoic acid — * *
1-Methylnaphthalene1 *
Dibenzothiophene1 *
Acridine1 *
Phenanthridine1 *
9H-carbazole1 * — *
9-Methylphenanthrene1 *
3-Methylphenanthrene1 *
4-Methylphenanthrene1 *
T-Methyl-gti-carbazole1 *
1-Phenylnaphthalene1 *
9,10-Anthracenedione1 * — — —
9-Ethylphenanthrene1 *
2,5-Dimethylphenanthrene1 *
1-Methylpyrene1 * * *
7-Methylbenzo(a)
anthracene1 * — *
4-Cyclopenta(def)
phenanthrene1 *
Perylene — — *
Hexadecanoic acid1 — — *
4-Hydroxy-3-methoxy-
benzaldehyde1 — — *
4H-Cyclopenta(def)
phenanthrene1 — — *
Unknown hydrocarbons1 * * * —
242
-------
136. INS EQUIPMENT CORPORATION (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSPEC 915031
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The INS Equipment
Corporation site, in the City of Tonawanda, contains 55 acres and was used to
dispose of an unknown quantity of pit sludge, cutting oils, grinding waste,
and foundry sand. The site has since been covered, graded, and seeded.
This site has a major potential for contaminant migration to the Niagara
River. The proximity of the site to the river, the probable direction of
ground-water flow, the chemical results, and the former wetland character of
the site together suggest that migration could be occurring.
Geologic information.—Before the site was graded and seeded, it consisted of
wetlands and glacial lacustrine deposits. The underlying bedrock is Camillus
Shale.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled 10 test borings on the site 1982;
locations are shown in figure B-22. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 14.5 Black foundry sand, asphaltic smell, debris,
rubble. Hit hard zone at 14 ft; could
barely drill 6 inches more.
SAMPLE: 14 ft.
2 0 - 15.0 Black and gray zones of foundry sand, debris.
Hit hard zone at 15 ft.
SAMPLE: 15 ft.
3 0-18.0 Black foundry sands, debris.
18.0 - 18.5 Gravel and pebbles.
18.5 - 21.5 Sand, black, wet.
21.5 - 26.5 Clay, gray-green.
SAMPLE: 18.5 ft.
4 0 - 16.5 Black foundry sands, cinder ash debris.
16.5 - 19.5 Same but saturated.
19.5 - 21.5 Clay, gray-green.
SAMPLE: 16.5 ft.
5 0 - 6.5 Black foundry sands, dry.
6.5 - 11.5 Same, with rubble and gravel.
11.5 -16.5 Same with nuts, bolts, rubber hoses, wood,
metal bindings, wet at 15 ft.
SAMPLE: 15 ft.
6 0-6.5 Foundry sand, black to brown, medium.
6.5 - 11.5 Same, rubble at 10 - 11.5.
11.5 - 16.5 Sand, brown to black, rubble, hard drilling,
no returns.
16.5 - 21.5 No returns, gray-green sandy clay on bit.
SAMPLE: 20 ft.
243
-------
jtoring no,
7
Depth (ft)
-8.0
Description
Slag on top, then foundry sand, then
limestone—could not drill.
SAMPLE: 8 ft.
0 - 9.0 Topsoil, brown to black, slag, debris, gravel,
hard drilling.
9 - 15.0 Gravel, gray and pea rock. Could not drill
through.
SAMPLE: 14 ft.
0 - 0.5 Black cinder ash.
0.5 - 4.0 "Iron ore" with gravel, could not drill
through.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
10
Note; Moved twice to get around hard zone
at 1.0 ft. Tried again — still drilling in
fresh wood. Fourth try:
0 - 1.5 Topsoil and wood.
1.5 - 4.0 Sand, dark brown to black, gravel, could not
drill through.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
Hydrologic information. — Ground water was encountered in two of the 10 bore-
holes at depths of 15 and 18 ft below land surface. Past history of the site
indicated that some areas were wetlands. The direction of ground-water flow
is probably westward toward the Niagara River.
42°
59'
19"
78° 56'19"
Not to scale
S
EXPLANATION
2 Test boring and
substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-22. Location of sampling holes at INS Equipment
Corporation, site 136, Tonawanda.
244
-------
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected a soil sample at each
borehole within the disposal area for cadmium, chromium, iron, lead, and
organic-compound analyses; results are given in table B-23. The concentrations of
cadmium, chromium, and lead were higher than in samples from undisturbed areas not
affected by waste-disposal sites. The samples contained 19 organic priority
pollutants, most in concentrations above 10,000 ug/kg and one as high as 150,000
ug/kg (fluoranthene in hole 9); 15 organic nonpriority pollutants and 14 possibly
naturally occurring organic compounds also were found. Ground-water quantity
was insufficient for sampling.
Table B-23.—Analyses of substrate samples from INS Equipment Corporation,
site 136, Tonawanda, N.Y., August 10, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-22. Concentrations are in pg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
12345
(14.0) (15.0) (20.0) (16.5) (15.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Iron
Lead
Organic compounds
53,000tt 20,000tt
430,000tt 70,000tt
100,000,000 26,000,000
2,500,000tt 630,000tt
3,000
3,700,000
10,000
5,000tt 6,000tt
30,000tt 180,000tt
16,000,000 41,000,000
iio.oontt no.ooott
***
***
***
***
***
Priority pollutants
Phenol
Naphthalene
Acenaphthalene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
Anthracene
Fluoranthene
Pyrene
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Benzo(a)anthracene
Chrysene
Bis(2-ethylhexl)
phthalate 52,000
2,4-dimethylphenol LT
61,000
LT
LT
LT
41,000
LT
25,000
18,000
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
33,000
17,000
11,000
LT
LT
5,000
1
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. The
concentration reported is semi-quantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Tonawanda area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
***Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
245
-------
Table B-23.—Analyses of substrate samples from INS Equipment Corporation,
site 136, Tonawanda, N.Y., August 10, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-22. Concentrations are in Mg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
_ _ _ ^ - .
(14.0) (15.0) (20.0) (16.5) (15.0)
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants
Dibenzofuran — — — — LT
0-cresol 11,000
P-cresol 43,000 — — LT
2-Methylnaphthalene LT — — — LT
2,4-Dimethyl-l,3-
dioxolane1 30,000
1,3-Dimethyl-
benzene1 5,200
Decane1 25,000
Undecane1 55,000
Tridecane1 90,000 — 23,000 -- 26,000
Tetradecane1 270,000 13,000 — — 82,000
Hexadecane1 305,000 — 64,000
Heptadecane1 160,000 — — — 600,000
Octadecane 310,000 — — ~ 550,000
Eicosane1 188,000 — — -- 570,000
Hexicosane1 97,000
2,6,10,14-Tetramethyl-
heptadecane1 88,000 — — — 63,000
4-Methyldecane1 7,300
Dodecane1 — — 5,300
2,6,11-Trimethyldodecane1 -- — 8,700
Pentadecane1 — — — — 260,000
2-Methylpentadecane1 — — — — 49,000
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
6789 10
(20.0) (8.0) (14.0) (4.0) (4.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium 1,000 4,000 1,000 2,000 2,000
Chromium 7,000 120,000tt 30,000tt 20,000 120,000tt
Iron 6,000,000 29,000,000 2,900,000 25,000,000 19,000,000
Lead 30,000 120,000tt 30,000 130,000tt 100,000
Molecular sulfur1 — — 44,000
246
-------
Table B-23.—Analyses of substrate samples from INS Equipment Corporation,
site 136, Tonawanda, N.Y., August 10, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-22. Concentrations are in ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, l,T
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.)
__Samp_le_ number and depth below land surface (ft)
6789 10
(20.0) (8.0) (14.0) (4.0) (4.0)
Organic compounds **
** ** ** **
Priority pollutants
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate — LT
Fluorene — — — 13,000
Phenanthrene — — — 70,000
Anthracene — — — 26,000
Fluoranthene — — — 150,000
Pyrene — — — 88,000
Benzo(a)anthracene — — — 47,000
Chrysene — — — 35,000
Benzo(a)pyrene — — — 23,000
Indenod ,2,3-cd)pyrene — — — LT
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene — — — LT
Benzo(g,h,i)perylene — — — LT
Benzo(b)fluoranthene — — — 33,000
Benzo(k)fluoranthene — — — 33,000
Acenaphthylene — — — 21,000
Nonpriority pollutants
Dibenzofuran — — — 12,000
2-Methylnaphthalene — — — LT
Benzo(k)phenanthrene1 — — — 6,000
Perylene1 — — — 16,000
1,5-Hexadiyne1 30,000
Cyclohexane1 11,000
3-Hexen-2-one1 4,900
4-Methylphenanthrene1 — — — 18,000
2-Phenylnaphthalene1 — — — 7,100
1-Methylpyrene1 — — — 9,500
7-H-Benzo(DE)
anthracene-7-one1 — — — 17,500
Hexadecane1 — 2,500
247
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137. PENNWALT-LUCIDOL DIVISION (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915035
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Pennwalt-Lucidol
Division, in the town of Tonawanda, was used to dispose of phosphorus acid
sludge and limestone during 1956-70 at a rate of 62.5 tons/yr. The material
has since been removed.
The potential for downward movement of contaminants is probably limited by
the clay unit. Additional information would be needed to confirm lateral
migration; therefore, the potential for offsite migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of glacial lacustrine clay overlying
bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test
borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure B-23. The
geologic logs are on page 249.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered.
78° 53'22"
~r
x x x * v x * * » K v
• Building on plant site
Former disposal areas
EXPLANATION
1 Test boring and
substrate sample
Base from NYSDEC, 1982
Figure B-23. Location of sampling holes at Pennwatt-Luoidol
Division, site IS?, Tonawanda.
248
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-2.0 Fill, gray to brown.
2.0 - 3.0 Clay, rusty brown.
3.0 - 11.5 Clay, red, dry.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
2 0 - 1.5 Fill, black topsoil.
1.5 - 3.0 Black, loose dirt, fill, rocky.
3.0 - 4.0 Clay, rusty brown as in borehole.
4 .0 - 6.5 Clay, rusty brown to clay, red, tight.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
3 0-2.0 Topsoil and gravel.
2.0 - 3.5 Black, organic, "slushy" material,
pea gravel.
3.5 - 4.0 Clay, brown, sandy, dry.
4.0 - 6.5 Clay, reddish.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
4 0-1.0 Topsoil, reddish.
1.0 - 3.0 Black, damp, organic material, gravel.
3.0 - 4.0 Clay, greenish, damp.
4.0 - 5.0 Clay, reddish.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected four soil samples for
organic-compound analyses; results are shown in table B-24. The samples con-
tained seven organic priority pollutants; concentrations ranged from 930 to
3,260 ug/kg.
Table B-24.—Analyses of substrate samples from Pennwatt-Lucidol Division,
site 137, Tonawanda, N.Y. , July 30, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-23. Concentrations are in pg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT
indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
. (2.5) (3.0) (3.0) (2.5)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Fluoranthene — 1,440 2,010
Pyrene — 1,190 2,350
Benzo(a)anthracene — 1,060 903
Chrysene — 1,400 1,510
Benzo(b)fluoranthene — 1,880 — 1,052
Benzo(k)fluoranthene — 3,260
Benzo(a)pyrene — — — 911
Possible artifact
4-methyl-3-penten-2-one LT — — II
249
-------
143. 0-CEL-O PRODUCTS (Literature review)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—0-CEL-O Products, on
Sawyer Avenue in the city of Tonawanda, consists of a settling pond to hold
sulfur sludge. An aqueous sulfur slurry from the process buildings is pumped
to the pond, and the residual in the pond is a sulfur sludge that was recov-
ered and sold. The amount of sulfur sludge produced is reported to be 75,000
gal/yr. Before the settling pond was put into service, the sludge was removed
by a sewer discharging to the Town of Tonawanda wastewater-treatment facility.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable because data are
lacking.
Geologic information.—The site owners had five test borings drilled on the
property in 1974—four to a depth of 10.5 ft; the fifth to 30.5 ft. The four
shallow borings indicate the same material from 0 to 10.5 ft. The geologic
log for the deepest boring is as follows:
Depth (ft) Description
0-2 Gray-brown medium silt and clay
2 - 16.5 Gray-brown hard silty clay with
embedded pebbles, occasional lenses
of fine sand and silt.
16.5 - 30.5 Moist brown medium silty clay, trace
of embedded fine gravel.
Hydrologic information.—Water was not encountered in any of the borings.
Upon completion of the deepest boring, water was poured into the hole to fill
it. The water level dropped 0.3 ft within 4 hours, indicating a low per-
meability for the screened zone.
Chemical information.—No chemical data for this site are available, and no
monitoring has been proposed.
149. ROBLIN STEEL COMPANY (ITSGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915036
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Roblin Steel
Company site, in the western part of the town of Tonawanda, was used to
dispose of 1 Mgal of sulfuric acid pickling liquor and 300,000 to 400,000 tons
of foundry sand. The liquor was disposed of in 1969-70, and the foundry sand
during 1964-71.
The permeable river deposits and the proximity of the site to the Niagara
River suggest a large potential for contaminant migration from this site;
however, the chemical data are limited and migration of contaminants cannot be
confirmed; therefore, the potential for offsite migration is considered inde-
terminable.
250
-------
Geologic information.—The site consists of topsoil overlying river deposits
of sand and gravel. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled one test hole in 1982.
The geologic descripton is as follows:
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 4.5 Topsoil and gravel fill.
4.5 - 5.5 Dark-brown sand with river gravel
(polished and rounded), wet.
5.5 - 6.5 Sand, greenish, gravel, saturated.
SAMPLE: 6 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered 5 ft below land surface.
The direction of ground-water flow is westward toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a substrate sample
from the borehole at a depth of 6 ft for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper,
iron, lead, mercury, and zinc analyses; results are shown in table B-25. The
concentration of cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, and zinc exceeded those in
undisturbed soils not affected by waste-disposal practices.
Table B-25.—Analyses of substrate sample at 6-ft depth from Roblin Steel,
site 149, Tonawanda, N.Y., August 10, 1982.
[Concentrations are in yg/kg; dash indicates constituent not
found.]
Inorganic constituents Concentration
Arsenic
Cadmium 6,000tt
Chromium 80,000tt
Copper 52,000tt
Iron 32,000,000
Lead 180,000tt
Mercury —
Zinc 440,OOP It
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Tonawanda area.
150, 151. SHANCO PLASTICS AND CHEMICALS NYSDEC 915048
(USGS field reconnaissance)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Shanco Plastics and
Chemicals sites, in the town of Tonawanda, were used to dispose of phenols and
phenolic resins at a rate of 80 tons/yr until 1976. Also, unknown amounts of
polymerizers, carbolic acids, and drums of chemical wastes were deposited.
The drums have since been removed for proper disposal. The sites are now
inactive, and little is known about past burial practices or removal of con-
taminated soils. The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
251
-------
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings in
1983; the locations are shown in fig. B-24. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring, no. Depth (ft)
1
0 - 3.5
3.5
Description
Topsoil.
Clay
SAMPLE: 3.5
0 - 2.0
2.0
Topsoil.
Clay.
SAMPLE: 2.0
0 - 3.0
3.0
Fill.
Clay, red.
SAMPLE: 3.0
0 - 4.0
4.0
Fill, black.
Clay, red
SAMPLE: 4.0
Hydrologic information.—No hydrologic data are available.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey took four substrate samples
from the site in May 1983 for organic-compound analyses. The samples con-
tained four organic priority pollutants, three of which were below the quan-
tifiable detection limit. Phenol concentration in sample 1 was 170,000 yg/kg.
The samples also contained two organic nonpriority pollutants, seven possibly
naturally occurring organic compounds, and some unknown hydrocarbons; results
are shown in table B-26.
78° 54'42"
• 4
42°
48'
35'
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
,2 Test boring and
substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-24* Location of sampling holes at Shanoo Plastics and
Chemicals, sites 150 and 151, Tonawanda.
252
-------
Table B-26.—Analyses of substrate samples from Shanco Plastics, sites 150 and
151, Tonawanda, N.Y., May 31, 1983.
[Locations shown in fig. B-24. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(3.5) (2.0) (3.0) (4.0)
Inorganic constituents
Molecular sulfur1 — — — 3,000
Organi c compounds
Priority pollutants
Phenol 170,000 — LT
Naphthalene LT — — —
Fluoranthene — — LT —
Pyrene — — LT —
Nonpriority pollutants
1,2,3,4,4A, 9,10,10A-
Octahydro-1,4A-
dimethyl-7-
isopropyl-1-
phenanthrene
carboxylic acid,
methylester1 100,000
Fenchone1 200
Dodecane1 200,000
Tridecane1 400,000
Tetradecane1 500,000
Pentadecane1 500,000
Hexadecane1 500,000
Heptadecane1 400,000
Octadecane1 200,000
Unknown hydrocarbons1 400,000 — —
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiauantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. OC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
253
-------
153. SPAULDING FIBRE COMPANY
(USGS field reconnaissance and literature review)
NYSDEC 915050a-d
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Spaulding Fibre
Company site, in the city of Tonawanda, contains four disposal sites:
Site 153 was used for the disposal of 20 tons of asbestos and fiberglass
resin dust during 1977-78.
Site 154 was a disposal site for approximately 750 drums of waste varnishes.
Site 155a,b contain several lagoons that were used to collect grinding wastes
containing phenol and zinc chlorides. The sludge that collected in
these lagoons has been excavated and the lagoons filled with clean
material. The site has now been properly closed.
The potential for vertical migration through the underlying clay unit
appears limited. Horizontal migration of contaminants is possible during
periods of intense preciptation, but additional data would be needed to con-
firm leachate migration. Thus, the potential for contaminant migration is
indeterminable until more data become available.
78° 53'12"
42°
00'
16"
1
••
!
.
1
&
Lagoon i
site 155
*T
>v .
N
Not to scale
Jil
2}
&
•^
• o
\
pHP —
LT,
n
£
J
Spaulding Fibre
Company
^~7 Bag material
disposal site 153
• 2
^f
i
r
Drum and bag
a!
' i
"•
di
snnQ^ 1 Q i t
^ 1 KA
1C— —
- i
X- .
,. .,
s
01
(D
CD
~"
in
t
EXPLANATION
»2 Jest boring and substrate
sample
O^ Monitoring well
C)2 USGS test boring and
substrate sample
1
— — « — Electromagnetic survey
traverse
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-25. Location of sampling holes, monitoring wells, and eleotromagnetis-
aonductivity survey lines at Spaulding Fibre Company, sites 15S,
154, 155a, and 155bf Tonawanda.
254
-------
Geologic information.—Earth Dimensions, Inc. drilled three geologic test
borings on sites 154 and 155 in 1978 (Krehbiel Associates, 1978); the loca-
tions are shown in fig. B-25. The geologic logs indicate clayey lake sediments
overlying a silty clay till. These units vary in thickness within the site.
The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - .5 Moist, reddish-brown silty clay fill,
very firm.
.5 - 4 Extremely moist to wet black cinders,
reddish-brown silty-clay and industrial
waste, very friable to firm.
4 - 4.5 Moist, reddish-brown silty clay with
less than 5 percent gravel.
4.5 - 20 Moist, reddish-brown, silty clay loam
with 5 to 10 percent subangular, gray,
hard shale and dolomitic gravel.
2 0 - .5 Extremely moist, black, cinder fill,
very friable.
Moist, black, silty loam topsoil.
Moist, mottled, reddish-brown silty
clay with gray vertical desiccation
cracks.
2 - 14 Moist, reddish-brown silty clay loam
with 10 to 15 percent subangular hard
dolomite and shale gravels and occasional
cobbles.
14 - 20 Moist, brown, silty clay loan with 10 to
15 percent subangular hard dolomite and
shale gravel.
3 0 - .5 Moist, black, silt loam topsoil, very
friable.
.5 - 3 Moist, distinctly mottled, reddish-brown,
silty clay with gra desiccation cracks.
3 - 6 Moist, reddish-brown heavysilt loam, thinly
bedded.
6 - 12.5 Moist, reddish-brown silty clay loam with
10 to 15 percent subangular, hard, gray
shale and dolomite gravels.
12.5 - 20 Moist to extremely moist, brown silty clay
loam with 10 to 15 percent subangular, gray
hard shale and dolomite gravels.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings at site 155 in 1982;
the locations are shown in figure B-25. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 0.5 Topsoil.
0.1 - 3.5 Clay, red, mixed with gravel,
extremely tight.
SOIL SAMPLE: 2 - 3.5 ft.
255
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
2 0-5.5 Clay, red, tight, dry, with layers of gravel.
5.5 - 7.0 Clay, red, wet.
7.0 - 11.5 Clay, red, tight, dry.
11.5 - 16.5 Clay, red, tight, dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5.5 - 7.0 ft.
3 0 - 5.0 Clay, reddish, tight, dry, some gravel.
5.0 - 5.5 Clay, reddish, wet.
5.5 - 26.5 Clay, reddish, dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 - 5.5 ft.
4 0 - 0.5 Topsoil.
0.5 - 3.5 Clay, reddish, tight, dry.
3.5 - 4.5 Clay, reddish, damp.
4.5 - 16.5 Same as above but with gravel layers.
SOIL SAMPLE: 3.5 - 4.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Hydrologic data are reported in Krehbiel Associates
(1978) and in Calspan Corporation (written commun., 1979). The Calspan
Corporation ran permeability tests on undisturbed cores from the three test
borings from site 154.
A study by Dunn Geoscience Corporation indicates the direction of ground-
water flow to be northward from the site (Krehbiel Associates, 1978). Calspan
Corporation calculated permeability coefficients from six undisturbed cores
from the three test borings; results are given in table B-27.
Chemical information.—Two monitoring wells were installed on the site. One
well is upgradient from the disposal area, the other is downgradient. Samples
were analyzed for chemical oxygen demand, phenol, and antimony; results are
Table B-27.—Permeability coefficients from test borings at
Spaulding Fibre Company, sites 154 and 155,
Tonawanda, N.Y.I
[Locations are shown in fig. B-25.]
Test boring
1
2
3
Sample zone
(ft below
land surface)
4.5 -
15
5
15
3.5 -
14.5 -
5.5
17
6
17
4.5
15.5
Permeability
coefficient
(cm/s)
k =
k =
k =
k =
k =
k =
1.06
2.1
2.0
2.3
2.2
1.4
X
X
X
X
X
X
10-7
10-7
10-5
10-7
10-5
10~6
Tests by Calspan Corporation.
256
-------
given in table B-28. The highest phenol concentration was 230 ug/L. The
Geological Survey also collected a soil sample from each borehole at the
lagoon (site 155a,b) for iron, zinc, and phenol analyses; results are given in
table B-29. No phenols were found, and zinc concentrations did not exceed
those in undisturbed soils not affected by waste-disposal practices.
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey conducted an electromag-
netic survey on sites 154 and 155 in November 1982. Two lines were run. The
locations are shown in fig. B-25; the data are plotted in fig. B-26.
Line 1 was in an open field south of the main plant on site 154. All
measurements within 120 ft of the disposal-area mound show the effects of
artificial fill. Buried metal is strongly indicated at several points along
the traverse (15 ft, 100 ft, 200 ft, and 400 ft). The final two data points
along line 1 may represent background values, but additional data would be
needed to confirm this.
Line 2, northwest of line 1, was run over site 155. No large deviation
from background conductivity is evident except at the 200-ft mark; the cause
of this decrease is unknown.
Source of data.—Krehbiel Associates, Inc., 1978, Industrial solid waste
management facility for Spaulding Fibre Co., Inc., Unpublished report to site
owner, 17 p., 3 figs., I pi.
Background conductivity
Background conductivity
100
200
DISTANCE, IN FEET
300
Figure B-26,
Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at
Spaulding Fibre, site 154 and 155, Tonawanda.
(Locations are shown in fig* B-25.)
257
-------
Table B-28.—Analyses of water from monitoring wells at Spaulding Fibre
Company, site 154, Tonawanda, N.Y.I, 1979-81
[Well locations are shown in fig. B-25. Concentrations
are in ug/L except where indicated .]
Date
11-23-78
1-25-79
8-18-79
9-20-79
12-20-79
5-15-80
10-23-80
3-26-81
12-10-81
Constituent
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
chemical oxygen demand
phenol
antimony
Well 1
(upgradient)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
(mg/L)
175
<250
<10
78
220
<10
26.5
40
<100
24.4
150
<5
19.8
70
<5
7.9
230
<1
18.8
<30
<2
7.7
210
<5
<5
<30
<2
Well 2
(downgradient)
89
100
10
59
90
<10
49.1
30
<100
50.1
80
<5
32.2
80
<5
19.9
190
<1
55.6
<30
<2
11.5
260
<5
<5
<30
<2
Analyses by Acts Testing Labs., Inc.
258
-------
Table B-29.—Analyses of substrate samples from Spaulding Fibre, site 155,
Tonawanda, N.Y., July 21, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-25. Concentrations are in pg/kg.
Sample 4 was not analyzed.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ftT
1234
(3.2) (5.5) (5.0) (5.0)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Zinc
9,400,000
38,000
5,200,000
41,000
7,000,000
37,000
158. UNION CARBIDE, LINDE DIVISION (Literature review) NYSDEC 915038
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Union Carbide Linde
Division site, in the town of Tonawanda, was used as a storage site for ura-
nium tailings during 1942-48. A report by the U.S. Department of Energy
(1978) states that the radiation standards were being met. However, 72,000 yd3
of soil was contaminated with low-level radiation, and 19,000 yd3 of building
material in and around five buildings used in processing the uranium were con-
taminated. In addition, approximately 50 Mgal of liquid waste containing small
amounts of a radioactive residual from the production of U-jOg concentrate was
pumped into wells on the property that discharge to the Camillus Shale.
According to a Department of Energy report (1981), the data from a survey
by the Department of Energy:
...clearly demonstrated that the concentrations of radionuclides in
ground water were well below the levels established by the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission as acceptable for release to an unrestricted
area. Due to the very high natural mineral content of the ground
water, it is not acceptable as drinking water or for many other
industrial or residential uses; hence, no significant pathway exists
for exposure of the general public.
Thus, the potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a glaciolacustrine clay overlying
bedrock of Camillus Shale. The shale lies about 95 ft below land surface.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was reported at 1 to 1.5 ft below land
surface during site construction. This probably represents a perched water
table above the clay unit.
Chemical information.—No chemical data are available.
Source of data.—U.S. Department of Energy, 1981, Evaluation of liquid
effluent discharge from the Linde Air Products Company Ceramics Plant: U.S.
Department of Energy, Executive Summary, 10 p.
259
-------
160. J. H. WILLIAMS COMPANY (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915057
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The J. H. Williams
Company site, in the City of Tonawanda, contained two small areas where oils
and solvents were disposed of. The soils have since been excavated and removed,
The potential for downward migration is probably limited by the underlying
clay unit. Preliminary sampling indicates the presence of organic priority
pollutants and a possiblity of horizontal migration, but until additional
testing is done, the potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a glacial lacustrine clay
overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four
test borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure B-27. The
geologic logs are on page 261.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered in the boreholes.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample from
each borehole for iron, lead, and organic-compound analyses; results are
given in table B-30. Concentratons of lead in sample 2 exceeded those in
samples from undisturbed sites not affected by waste-disposal practices.
78° 54' II1'
EXPLANATION
»2 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-27. Location of sampling holes at J. H. Williams
Company, site 160, Tonawanda.
260
-------
Sample 4 contained seven organic priority pollutants, all in concentrations
above 3,400 yg/kg. The fill encountered at borehole 4 indicates that the
sample may be from within the disposal area.
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.5 Topsoil, dark brown.
1.5 - 3.5 Clay, gray-green to red-brown.
3.5 - 10.5 Clay, red.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
2 0-1.5 Topsoil, black, organic, not very damp.
1.5 - 3.5 Clay, greenish gray.
3.5 - 6.5 Clay, reddish, dry, tight.
Note; Moved back and took sample at 2 ft.
3 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 2.0 Clay, gray-green, sandy, "mushy".
SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
4 0-1.5 Topsoil, black, fill.
1.5 - 2.0 Clay, gray-green, sandy.
2.0 - 6.5 Clay, red.
SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
Table B-30.—Analyses of substrate samples from J. H. Williams, site 160,
Tonawanda, N.Y., July 29, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-27. Concentrations are in yg/kg.)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(2.0) (2.0) (1.5) (1.5)
Inorganic constituents
Iron 8,000,000 13,000,000 12,000,000 15,000,000
Lead 20,000 360,000tt 100,000 60,000
Organic compounds *** *** ***
Priority pollutants
Phenanthrene — — — 3,760
Fluoranthene — — — 3,580
Pyrene — — — 4,120
Benzo( a) anthracene — — — 3,410
Chrysene — — — 4,520
Benzo(b)f luoranthene — — — 4,180
Benzo(k)f luoranthene -- -- -- 5 ,180
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Tonawanda area.
***Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
261
-------
167. CHEMICAL LEAMAN TANK LINES (USGS reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915014
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Chemical Leaman
Tank Lines site, in the city of Tonawanda, consists of three unlined settling
ponds that are used to hold drained tanker residue for offsite disposal to the
Tonawanda sewer system.
Geologic and chemical data indicate a possibility for contaminant migra-
tion, but the potential is indeterminable. Ground-water samples contained
several organic compounds that could be associated with past disposal
operations.
Geologic information.—The Anderson Drilling Company drilled four test
borings in 1981. The drilling logs indicate that the site consists of fill
overlying a fine silty sand approximately IS ft thick and underlain by a soft
red clay. The borings did not reach bedrock, which is probably Camillus Shale,
Table B-31.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Chemical Leaman Tank Lines,
site 167, Tonawanda, N.Y. , July 19, 1982.
[Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes indicate that compound was
not found, LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable
detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2 3
(8.1) (8.7) (11.6)
PH
Specific conductance (ymho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
6.9
1,496
11.0
7.0
2,400
11.0
7.4
1,400
11.0
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Phenol — LT 38t
Nonpriority pollutants
3,4-Dichlorobenzoic acid1 780
4-(l,l-nimethylethyl)phenol1 — — 62
l-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol1 690
Compounds potentially of natural origin
1-Hexanol1 — — 60
2-Methyl-2-propanol1 13 — —
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or New York State standard for maximum concentration
in ground water.
262
-------
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered at depths of 8 to 12 ft
below land surface. The direction of ground-water flow is southward toward
Ellicott Creek.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected water samples from
three monitoring wells downgradient from the settling ponds along the southern
boundary of the property. Each sample was analyzed for organic compounds;
results are given in table B-31. Phenol concentrations in samples from well
3 exceed the USEPA criterion for drinking water and the NYS ground-water
standard. No other priority pollutants were found.
182. HUNTLEY POWER STATION (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915063
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Huntley Power
Station site, also known as the "Cherry Farm" area, in the town of Tonawanda,
was reportedly used by Occidental Chemical-Durez for the disposal of approxi-
mately 625 tons of phenol tars, some of which contained varying amounts of
chlorinated benzenes. An unknown amount of foundry sand and slag was also
disposed of on the site.
The potential for contaminant migration is major. Preliminary results of
organic-compound analyses indicate the presence of unknown quantities of
priority pollutant compounds. Heavy-metal data indicate that lead has
migrated through the fill into the sand unit below. Geologic logs indicate
that all substrate samples were collected from within disposal areas; there-
fore additional data would be needed to evaluate horizontal migration toward
the Niagara River.
Geologic information.—The unconsolidated layers consist of glacial lacustrine
sand, silt, and clay overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological
Survey drilled 13 test borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in
figure B-28. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-19 Black cinder ash, wet at about 11 ft.
19 - 26.5 Sand, gray, fine, "soupy."
SAMPLE: 26.5 ft.
2 0-10 Cinder ash, black. Hit rocks at 10 ft;
could not drill through. Moved inland 50 ft,
could not drill through again, moved 50 ft
further inland.
0-15 Cinder ash, black.
15 - 16.5 Sand, fine, gray, "soupy."
SAMPLE: 15 ft.
3 0 - 26.5 Cinder ash, black. Probably hit gray/green
sand at 20 ft, but hole was so large that no
returns came to surface.
SAMPLE: Took sample from auger stem at 20 ft.
263
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
4 0-20 Cinder ash, black, wet at 11 ft.
20 - 21.5 Sand, gray, wet.
SAMPLE: 18 ft.
5 0-22 Cinder ash, black.
22 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 22 ft.
6 0-18 Cinder ash, black.
18 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 18 ft.
7 0-15 Fly ash, black.
15-19 Sand, brown, wet.
19 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 19 ft.
8 0-17 Fly ash, brownish color at about 11 ft, wet.
17 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green. Much water in hole but
could not make a well.
SAMPLE: 17 ft.
9 0-21 Cinder ash, black. Hit exceptionally hard
zone about 14 ft. Boulder?
21 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 21 ft.
10 0 - 21.5 Fly ash, black. Hard drilling, but not rocks,
at 10 ft. At 12 ft started to get rock sound
- no returns. Started to move faster at 13 ft,
but rock sound still present—must be loose
rocks in large borehole or cavity. Various
debris coming out; metal strapping, springs,
rubber gloves, etc. Strong benzene odor.
Swept with HNU volatiles detection: metal
strappings give reading 12 times background.
SAMPLE: 21 ft
11 0-10 Fly ash, black. Hit boulders at 10 ft and
could not drill through. Moved 50 ft inland.
0-21 Fly ash, black.
21 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 21 ft.
12 0-21 Fly ash, black, brown, rusty colored layer at
10 ft.
21 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 21 ft.
13 0-20 Fly ash, black; brown zone at about 11 ft.
20 - 26.5 Sand, gray-green, wet.
SAMPLE: 20 ft.
264
-------
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered between 11 and 16 ft
below land surface within the fill material. The direction of ground-water
flow is probably westward toward the Niagara River. Field inspection of the
site indicates extensive surface-water runoff toward the river along the
western boundary of the property.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected a soil sample at each
borehole in 1982 for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, iron, lead, mercury, and
nickel analyses and in May 1983 for organic-compound analyses. Results are
given in table B-32.
Iron and phenol exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking water. The samples
contained 22 organic priority pollutants, some in concentrations as high as
199,000 ug/kg (PCB-1248), and 21 organic nonpriority pollutants, 9 possibly
naturally occurring organic compounds, and some unknown hydrocarbons.
Substrate samples from sites 14, 15, 16, 19, and 20 (fig. B-28) were from
drainage ditches or bottom materials from the Niagara River.
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey conducted an electromag-
netic survey in November 1982 with 10 survey lines. Locations are shown in
figure B-28; the data are plotted in figure B-29.
78° 56'15'
42°
59'
25"
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Surface-water sample
Electromagnetic survey traverse
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-28. Locations of sampling holes, surface sample, and
electromagnetic-conductivity survey lines at
Huntley Power Station, site 182, Tonawanda.
265
-------
With the possible exception of one reading (at the river's edge), all of
lines 1 and 2 showed fluctuating readings, which indicates variable fill.
Lines 3, 4, and 5 were more regular and probably indicate homogeneous fill.
The sharp rise in conductivity at the end of line 5 indicats the end of the
line, which is at the edge of the Niagara River and 30 ft below the rest of
the line.
Line 6, along the riverbank, showed mostly background conductivity values
until approximately the 2,200-ft mark, after which the values increased with
numbers of what appear to be refractory bricks on the surface. The highest
conductivity values were at the southern end of the line, near a large stream;
this may reflect a group of small oil-containment booms strung together across
the current further downstream.
Lines 7, 8, and 9 showed further evidence of varying fill material; most
of the readings south of the large gulley crossed by line 8 showed both very
high and very low values, whereas north of the gulley, the fluctuations were
considerably smaller and departed less from the background range.
225
200
cc
LLJ
uj 175
DC
LLJ
D_
to
O
I
150
125
— 100
>
K;
>
1- 75
O
D
Q
O 50
25
230
i-
Line 1
Background conductivity
250 500
DISTANCE, IN FEET
750
Figure B-29. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at Huntley
Power Station, site 182, Tonawanda, line 1. (Locations
are shown in figure B-28.)
266
-------
100
75
50
25
50
25
Line 2
Background conductivity
cc
LLJ
LU
DC
LLJ
O
50
25
50
^ 25
0
Q
O
O
100
75
50
25
250
500
750
Background conductivity
LineS
Background conductivity
Line 4
Background conductivity
Line 5
300
500
1000
1500
Line 6 (continued) _
Background conductivity
2000
2500
DISTANCE, IN FEET
3000
Figure B-29 (continued). Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey
at Huntley Power Station, site 182, Tonawanda, lines 2 through 6.
(Locations are shown in figure B-28.)
267
-------
125
100 -
Background conductivity
Background conductivity
250
500
150
125
100
75
50
25
Line 9
Background conductivity
750
Line 10
Background conductivity
50
100 0
250
500
DISTANCE, IN FEET
Figure B-29 (continued). Results of eleatromagnetie-eonductivity survey
at Huntley Power Station, site 182, Tonawanda, lines 7 through 10,
(Locations are shown in figure B-28.)
268
-------
Table B-32.—Analyses of substrate samples from Huntley Power Station, site 182,
Tonawanda, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. B-28. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
12345
First sampling (7-13-82) (26.5) (15.0) (20.0) (22.0)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic —
Cadmium 1,000
Chromium
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel 10,000
3,000
1,000
12,000,000 18,000,000 29,000,000 6,500,000 11,000,000
30,000 120,000tt 30,000 20,000 10,000
20,000
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
67 8 9 10
First sampling (7-15-82) (18.0) (19.0) (17.0) (21.0) (21.0)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic —
Cadmium 1,000
Chromium
Iron
Lead
Mercury —
Nickel 10,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
13,000,000 15,000,000 13,000,000 25,000,000 15,000,000
30,000 30,000 20,000 40,000 30,000
10,000
20,000
10,000
10,000
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
11 12 13 14 15
First sampling (7-16-82) (21.0) (20.0)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
31,000,000 12,000,000 5,900,000 8,900,000
40,000 30,000 20,000 20,000
10,000
10,000
10,000 10,000
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Tonawanda area.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base neutral-extractable compounds were extracted.
269
-------
Table B-32.—Analyses of substrate samples from Huntley Power Station, site 182,
Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-28. Dashes indicate that constituent
or compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but below
the quantifiable detection limit.]
First sampling (7-16-82)
16
Sample number
(Concentrations are in ug/kg)
19
20
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
1,000
Iron
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
8,200,000
20,000
—
10,000
12,000,000
20,000
—
»_ .
12,000,000
30,000
—
« —
First sampling (7-16-82)
Surface-water sample number
(Concentrations are in ug/L)
17 18
pH
Specific conductance (ymho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum
Antimony
Arsenic
Barium
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Colbalt
Copper
Iron
Lead
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Tellurium
Vanadium
Zinc
7.4
1,640
26.0
2,420
23
148
3
16
4,450t
7
599
7.6
1,650
28.0
280
13
400t
12
532
206
160
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water.
270
-------
Table B-32.—Analyses of substrate samples from Huntley Power Station, site 182,
Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-28. Dashes indicate that constituent
or compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but below
the quantifiable detection limit.]
Second sampling (5-21-83)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A 4A 5A
(16.0) (11.0) (14.0) (11.0) (22.0)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
Ethylbenzene
Toluene
PCB-1248
Phenol
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
2,4-Dime thylphenol
Benzo(a)pyrene
Chrysene
Bis(2-ethylhexyl)
phthlate
Anthracene
Fluorene
Nonpriority pollutants
2-Methylnaphthalene
0-xylene
2-Methylphenol
4-Methylphenol
Dibenzofuran
Tetrachloro-1,1 '-
biphenyl
2-(l-tnethylethyl)-
18
130
phenol
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride
Toluene
Benzene
PCB-1254
PCB-1248
Phenol
Fluoranthene
18
48,000
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
—
—
—
—
—
— —
LT
LT
—
—
—
—
—
Sample
6A
17.0
170
52
—
—
LT
—
LT
—
199,000
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
—
—
—
LT
LT
LT
LT
—
3,600
5,700
LT
33,000
—
number and
7A
15.0
180
24
—
—
LT
LT
LT
26 12
11,000 LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
— —
LT
— — __
LT
510
—
—
— —
—
—
depth below land surface
8A 9A
17.0 21.0
180
LT
—
LT
LT LT
LT 2,200
250 LT
IP
2,500
35,000t
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
—
LT
—
—
—
LT
—
—
11,000
—
1,000
(ft)
10A
12.0
280
15
13
—
13,000
LT
—
271
-------
Table B-32.—Analyses of substrate samples from Huntley Power Station, site 182,
Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-28. Dashes indicate that constituent
or compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but below
the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
6A 7A 8A 9A 10A
Second sampling (5-21-83) 17.0 15.0 17.0 21.0 12.0
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Naphthalene
Bis(2-ethylhexl)-
phthalate
Diethyl phthalate
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Chrysene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
2-4-Dimethylphenol
Nonpriority pollutants
Carbon disulfide
2-Methylnaphthalene
Acetone
0-xylene
4-Methylphenol
Dibenzofuran
Tetrachloro-1,1'-
biphenyl1
Terphenyl1
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene1 —
1,2-Dimethylnaphthalene1 —
2-(1-methylethyl)-
phenol1
1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic
acid1
Hexadecane1
Heptadecane1
Undecane1
Dodecane1
Tridecane1
Tetradecane1
2,6-Dimethylundecane
2,3,7-Trimethyloctane
Pexadecanoic acid
LT
3,600
3,900
4,400
LT
44,000
2,100
LT
120
23
LT
49
—
7,900
LT
2,700
120
—
—
380
5,600
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
—
—
—
—
—
LT
LT
LT
—
—
—
—
—
LT
290
960
LT
380
9,400
4,700
LT
—
LT
LT
4,700
LT
470
5,600
850
LT
LT
LT
16
LT
—
—
—
.-
1,750
1,700
1,600
1,500
1,300
1,500
—
—
600
1,450
—
—
9,000
—
5,600
—
18,200
6,000
1,170
1,200
—
—
600
4,000
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1,000
272
-------
Table B-32.—Analyses of substrate samples from Huntley Power Station, site 182,
Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B-28. Dashes indicate that constituent
or compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but below
the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
11A (Split) 12A 13A 14A 15A
Second sampling (5-21-83) (12.0) (12.0) (12.0)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride 280 (—) 180 380 880
Toluene — (—) 13
Trans-1,2,-dichloroethene - (—) — 47
Trichloroethene — (—) — 59
PCB-1254 -- (—) — — — LT
PCB-1248 18,000 (*) 20,000 21,000 1,100 750
Aldrin — (*)
Heptachlor epoxide — (*) —
Phenol — (*) 2,900 3,400
Fluoranthene LT (*) — — LT
Naphthalene LT (*) LT 1,500 LT
2,4-Dimethylphenol — (*) — 560
Bis(2-ethylexyl)
phthalate — (*)
Benzo(a)anthracene LT (—) — — LT —
Benzo(a)pyrene LT (—) — — LT
Acenaphthene — (—) — 280 — —
Acenaphthylene — (*) — — — —
Chrysene LT (*) — — LT
Fluorene — (*) — 280
Phenanthrene LT (—) LT 560 LT
Pyrene LT (*) — — LT
Nonpriority pollutants
Acetone 300 (—) 220
Carbondisulf ide — (—) — LT — —
2-Methylnaphthalene LT (*) 3,700 3,700 LT
4-Methylphenol — (*) — 2,500
Dibenzofuran — (*) — 230
1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene1 — (*)
1,4-Dimethyl-2-ethyl-
benzene* — (*) — —
2-(l-methylethyl)-
benzene1 — (*) — —
7-Methyltridecane1 — (*)
4-Fluoro-l,l'-biphenyl1 — (*)
2-Methylundecane1 — (*) — — —
273
-------
Table B-32.—Analyses of substrate samples from Huntley Power Station, site 182,
Tonawanda, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. B—28. Dashes indicate that constituent
or compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but below
the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number
Second sampling (5-21-83) 11A (Split)
12A
13A
14A
15A
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
5-Propyl-tridecane1
1-Ethyl-2-methylbenzene1 —
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene1 —
2-Ethyl-l,4-dimethyl-
benzene —
1,8-Dimethylnaphthalene1 —
1,6,7-Trimethyl-
naphthalene —
Unknown hydrocarbons1 —
Undecane1 —
Dodecane1 —
Tridecane1
Decane1 —
Tetradecane1
Hexadecane1 —
Feptadecane1
Octadecane1 —
2,6 ,10,14-Tetramethyl-
heptadecane1
3,100
610
1,100
930
1,300
4,900
3,900
4,400
1,100
930
1,500
1,400
(*)
Sample number
Second sampling (5-21-83) 16A
17A
18A
19A
20A
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride
PCB-1248
PCB-1260
B-BHC
6-BHC
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
Acetone
220
390
300
350
620
590
10
LT
230
320
LT
290
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
Hexane
1
830
10,000
274
-------
201. SEAWAY INDUSTRIAL PARK LANDFILL (Literature review) NYSDEC 915074
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Seaway Industrial
Park Landfill, in the town of Tonawanda, has been used for the disposal of fly
ash, demolition debris, municipal solid waste, waste oil, spent solvents,
sludges, oily sludges, dry "corian" wastes, and low-grade uranium ore
tailings.
A leachate-collection system has been installed at the base of fill around
the edge of the site and encloses all waste within the site. In addition, a
subsurface barrier wall consisting of a clay slurry surrounds the site just
outside the leachate-collection system. This wall extends into the clayey
till and lacustrine clay beneath the site and thus prevents lateral migration
of leachate offsite and movement of ground water into the site. Vertical
migration through the clayey till and(or) lacustrine clay is unlikely. All
collected leachate is piped to the Tonawanda sewer system for treatment.
Geologic information.—The site consists of recent fill and alluvium overlying
a series of alternating tills and glaciolacustrine clays. Three units uncon-
formably overlie a bedrock of Camillus Shale.
Wehran Engineering installed 5 exploratory test borings, 22 shallow
exploratory test pits, and 3 monitoring wells in 1979. Results are depicted
in the geologic column in figure B-30. Geologic descriptions for each of the
above units are given in Recra Research Inc. and Wehran Engineering (1979).
Hydrologic information.—The hydrologic properties of each geologic unit vary
locally. Permeability of the Camillus Shale reflects the extent of bedding
planes and joints. The lower sandy till overlying the bedrock, which is
saturated and hydraulically connected with the Camillus Shale, has a low per-
meability. The overlying basal glaciolacustrine unit is interbedded with
sand and clay and is considered moderately permeable (Recra Research 1979).
The glaciolacustrine clay unit overlying the basal unit, where present, is
highly permeable. An undisturbed core had a permeability of 1.6 x 10~° cm/s.
The upper clayey till, which overlies the lacustrine clay, is also highly
impermeable. An undisturbed core had a permeability of 1.6 x 10~8 cm/s. The
overlying recent material of fill and alluvium is the most permeable material
on the site, although the alluvium contains some silt and clay.
The till and clay units are highly impermeable. Annual recharge to the
site has been estimated by Recra-Wehran (1979) to be approximately 13 in/yr;
an equal amount of ground-water discharge is assumed. This probably occurs as
lateral movement throughout the landfill to topographic lows. The time needed
for ground water to migrate through the entire thickness of impermeable
material has been calculated by Recra-Wehran (1^79) to be 1,500 years or 0.04
ft/yr, an estimate based on what they considered to be a conservative figure.
A map of the water-table configuration in April 1979 was drawn from water
levels measured at borings and test pits. The map shows two mounds exceeding
610 ft above NGVD and separated by a depression greater than 590 ft NGVD that
extends northeast-southwest across the center of the property. Ground water
flows away from the mounds toward the property line, except between the mounds,
where the flowlines converge to form a stream that discharges into a culvert.
275
-------
Chemical information,—Recra Research, Inc. collected several surface-water
samples and test-pit samples in 1979 for grouped organic-compound and heavy-
metals analyses; results are published in Recra Research (1979, tables 5
through 7). The data indicate that leachate was entering the surface-water
bodies bordering the property and also infiltrating into a buried drainage
pipe beneath the landfill before the construction of the barrier wall. Also,
PCB's were detected in two of the three piezometers on the property and in
some of the surface-water samples.
Source of data,—Recra Research, Inc., and Wehran Engineering Corportion,
1979, Hydrogeologic investigation, Seaway Industrial Park Sanitary Landfill,
Town of Tonawanda, New York: Buffalo, N.Y., 80 p., 1 appendix, 4 maps.
PERIOD
QUATERNARY
1
UPPER SILURIAN
EPOCH !
RECENT
CONSIN)
CO
5
UJ
UJ
U
P
to
UJ
i
FORMATION
Fill
Alluvium
Upper clayey till
Glaciolacustrine
clay unit
Basal
glacio lacustrine unit
— Unconformable
Lower sandy ti 1 1
Camillus shale
COLUMNAR
SECTION
iik
ill
'vYc'.'x'-::
-------
204. WILLIAM STRASSMAN PROPERTY (CONSOLIDATED FREIGHTWAYS)
(USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 915083
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The William Strassman
property, in the City of Tonawanda, was used as a landfill to receive foundry
sand, possibly containing phenolic binders, from an automobile-manufacturing
plant in Tonawanda.
Geologic data indicate limited potential for chemical migration. If
migration does occur, it would be during periods of high precipitation and
would be in the permeable surface material. The potential for contaminant
migration is indeterminable, but the presence of contaminants and the site's
proximity to the Niagara River suggest changing the potential to major.
Geologic information.—The site consists of glacial lacustrine clay and till
overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four
test borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure B-31. The
geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft)
1 0-8.0
Description
0
- 5
- 11.5
Clay, red, tight, dry.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
Clay, red, tight, dry.
SAMPLE: 5 ft.
Clay, red, damp. Hit dark green clay at about
10 ft. Green clay is about 6 in thick and is
probably between fill material and natural
grade.
SAMPLE: 10 ft.
4 0 - 2.0 Clay, red.
2.0 - 2.5 Clay, green, damp.
2.5 - 6.5 Clay, red, tight, dry.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered in the drilling.
regional direction of ground-water flow in the unconsolidated material is
westward toward the Niagara River.
The
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey obtained a soil sample from each
borehole for organic-compound analyses; results are given in table R-33. The
samples contained 19 priority pollutants, six nonpriority pollutants, and
some unknown hydrocarbons.
277
-------
Table B-33.—Analyses of substrate samples from William Strassman Property,
site 204, Tonawanda, N.Y., May 24, 1983.
[Locations shown in fig. B-31. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(2.0) (2.0) (2.0) (2.5)
Inorganic constituent
Molecular sulfur1 — — — 390
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene * ** *
Toluene LT LT
Phenol *
Acenaphthene — — *
Fluoranthene * * ** * *
Naphthalene * — *
N-nitrosodiphenylamine — — *
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate — — * *
Di-n-octylphthalate — — *
Benzo(a)anthracene * — *
Benzo(a)pyrene — — * —
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene * * *
Chrysene * * **
Benzo(ghi)perylene — * *
Phenanthrene * — — —
Fluorene — — *
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene — — *
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene — — *
Pyrene * * ** *
Nonpriority pollutants
Dibenzofuran * — * —
2-Methylnaphthalene * — *
Benzole acid1 — — — *
1-Methylpyrene1 — — *
Benzo(c)phenanthrene1 — — * —
2-Octadecanol1 — — * *
Hexadecanol1 — — — *
Unknown hydrocarbons1 ~ —- * *
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified—Holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base neutral-extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
278
-------
»2 Test boring and
substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-31
Location of sampling holes at William Strassman
Property, site 204, Tonawanda.
207. CITY OF TONAWANDA LANDFILL (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915079
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The City of Tonawanda
landfill, in the northern part of the City of Tonawanda, began operation in
1940 and is still active. The site has been used for disposal of industrial
and municipal wastes, incinerator ash, and sewage sludge and has also accepted
unknown quantities of waste from several chemical and manufacturing firms.
Currently the landfill accepts only construction and demolition material and
nonputrescible household waste.
Offsite migration of contaminants is indeterminable. The analyses of 10
soil and water samples from along the perimeter of the disposal area showed no
significant concentrations of organic compounds; however, the leachate sampled
in the wooded wetlands adjacent to the site contained high concentrations of
phenol. Additional testing would be needed to confirm offsite migration.
Geologic information.—The disposal area consists of fill and a thin mantle of
sandy material overlying a lacustrine clay unit of Holocene age. The uncon-
solidated material overlies bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological
Survey drilled two test borings on the site in 1982; locations are shown in
figure B-32. The geologic logs are as follows:
279
-------
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0
4
14
- 4.0
- 14.0
- 16.5
Description
Black topsoil, wet.
Clay, olive green, wet,
Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
2 0 - 6.5 Fill, blocks, debris, oily, wood bits.
6.5 - 11.5 Clay, olive green, wet.
WATER SAMPLE: 3 - 5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered between 4 and 6 ft below
land surface. A perched water table is indicated above and within the upper
clay zones. The eastern boundary of the landfill consists of a swamp that is
ponded upon the clay. The direction of ground-water flow is toward the
drainage ditches on the north and south boundaries of the landfill, which flow
eastward to a drainage pipe that discharges into Ellicott Creek (pi. 2).
Chemical information.—In 1980 and 1981, the Erie County Department of
Environmental and Planning collected and analyzed three samples of leachate
from the wooded wetlands on the eastern boundary of the property; results are
given in table B-34.
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey collected 10 samples along the perim-
eter of the landfill for chromium, iron, and organic compound analyses;
78° 51'20"
Co,
Drainage ditch
nn L7
EXPLANATION
Leachate samples
Observation well and
water sample
• 8 Test boring and substrate
sample
*3 Surface-water sample
« — Electromagnetic survey
traverse
Fillmore St
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-S2. Location of monitoring wells, sampling holes, surface samples,
and electromagnetic-conductivity survey lines at City of
Tonawanda Landfill, site 207, Tonawanda.
280
-------
results are given in table B-35. Chromium concentration in sample 8 was
higher than in samples from undisturbed sites. Only one organic nonpriority
pollutant and no organic priority pollutants were detected. Samples 4, 5, and
10 were not analyzed for heavy metals.
Electromagnetic survey.—The Geological Survey conducted an electromagnetic
survey in November 1982 with two survey lines. Locations are shown in figure
B-32; the data are plotted in figure B-33.
Both lines begin in the landfill and end beyond the limit of dumped
materials, and both show elevated, erratic conductivity values within the
landfill, with an immediate drop to background values beyond the edge of the
landfill. No leachate plume is indicated.
Table B-34.—Analyses of leachate from City of Tonawanda Landfill, Tonawanda,
site 207, N.Y., 1980-811
[Locations are shown in figure B-32. Concentrations are in yg/L.
Dashes indicate that constituent was not analyzed, N indicates
it was detected, but in neglible quantities]
Constituent
Phenol
Cyanide
Pesticides
Herbicide 2 ,4-D
Total organic compounds
Arsenic
Barium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Magnesium
Manganese
Mercury
Selenium
Silver
Zinc
Calcium
Sodium
A
12-15-80
903
N
N
37.7
2,465,000
20
400
3,000
100
180
91,930
3,890
299,500
10,740
0.4
60
10
15,200
830,000
852,000
B
4-21-81
1,980
—
—
—
—
20
500
68
300
4,270
44,310
450
18,500
10,860
0.4
7
10
5,030
1,260,000
298,700
C
4-21-81
147
—
—
—
—
50
200
22
10
40
5,780
70
72,200
2,050
0.4
0.9
10
720
287,000
325,700
1 Data from Erie County Department of Environmental and Planning, 1982.
281
-------
Table B-35.—Analyses of ground-water, surface-water, and substrate samples
from City of Tonawanda Landfill, site 207, Tonawanda, N.Y. ,
July-August 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-32. Concentrations are in Mg/L and
yg/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found;
blanks indicate it was not analyzed.]
pH
Specific conductance
Temperature (°C)
Sample number and depth
Sub- Ground
strate water
1 2
(5.0) (5.0)
6.6
below land surface (ft)
Surface water
3 4
(0.2) (0.2)
6.9 7.1
Sub-
strate
5
(0.5)
(ymhos/cm) 1,330 940 2,340
16.0
23.0 25.0
Inorganic constituents
Chromium — — 3
Iron 6,700,000 54,000t 36,000t
Organic compounds *** ***
Nonpriority pollutant
Trans-4-chlorocyclohexanol1 54 — —
1-cyclohexen-l-ol1 17 — —
2-cyclohexen-l-one1 24 — — —
Sample number and
depth below land surface
(ft)
Substrates
6 7
(0.5) (0.
8 9
5) (0.5) (0.5) (1
10
.0)
Inorganic constituents
Chromium 10,000 4,000 40,000tt 5,000
Iron 47,000,000 4,100,000 15,000,000 4,400,000
Organic compounds — — — — —
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or NYS standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from the soils of undisturbed sites
in the Tonawanda area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
***Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study. No other
compounds detected.
282
-------
CONDUCTIVITY, IN MILLIMHOS PER METER
N3
30
cn
Oo
to
01
Ul
o
vj
en
o
m
m
o
o
Edge of fill-
o
/C
tQ
O
C
O
O
C
o
<
r+
CD
N)
-------
208. VETERAN'S PARK (Literature review) NYSDEC 915078
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Veteran's Park
site, within the City of Tonawanda, was thought to be developed on fill
material containing dredging and demolition material. Investigation of the
site's history revealed that offsite fill had not been used and that regrading
had entailed only the relocation of native material. Nonhazardous waste was
disposed of on the site, and no monitoring has been proposed. The potential
for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
211. AIR FORCE PLANT NO. 40 (Literature review) NYSDEC 915067
General information and chemical-migration potential.—Air Force Plant No. 40,
on the property currently owned by the General Motors Corporation in the town
of Tonawanda, was used for the maintenance, repair, and testing of rocket
engines during 1955-58. No evidence of generation or disposal of hazardous
waste has been noted, and no monitoring has been undertaken.
The facility is underlain by glacial lacustrine clay overlying the
Camillus Shale. No hydrologic or chemical information is available. The
potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
243. BOTANICAL GARDENS (USGS reconnaissance) NYSDEC 932068
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Botanical Gardens
site, in the City of North Tonawanda, is across the road from the Holiday Park
(site no. 72) and borders Tonawanda Creek. The site was reportedly used for
the disposal of heavy metals, organic compounds, and plasticizers during
1958-59. The estimated quantity of material disposed is 200 tons.
Additional data would be needed to evaluate the potential for chemical
migration. The potential for chemical migration appears to be limited but is
considered indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of topsoil overlying glacial
lacustrine deposits underlain by bedrock of Camillus Shale.
Hydrologic information.—The site contains two monitoring wells (fig. R-34) .
Water-level information indicates that the direction of ground-water flow is
eastward toward Tonawanda Creek. After these wells were pumped to obtain
water samples in 1982, the total recovery time exceeded 48 hours, which indi-
cates that ground-water movement is slow.
284
-------
Chemical information.—In 1979, Recra Research conducted an investigation of
the site. Boring logs and water-quality data are available from NYSDEC in
Buffalo, N.Y.
In 1982, the U.S. Geological Survey sampled the two monitoring wells for
copper, iron, and organic-compound analyses; results are given in table B-36.
No organic compounds were detected except in a split sample from well 1, which
contained 250 Mg/L of 2-(2-butoxyethoxy) ethanol. Only iron exceeded the
USEPA criterion for drinking water and the New York State standard for ground
water.
78° 50'40'
43°
02'
30"
•Site 243
(Botanical
Gardens)
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
O6 Monitoring well and water sample
Q7 Test boring and substrate sample
^ Surface-water sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-34
Location of monitoring
site 243, North Tonawanda.
at Botanical Gardens,
285
-------
Table B-36.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Botanical Gardens, site 243,
North Tonawanda, N.Y., June 18, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-34. Concentrations are in ug/L.; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit; blanks
indicate it was not analyzed.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
I(duplicate)2
(20.5)
pH 6.8 6.9
Specific conductance (ymho/cm) 1,380 1,550
Temperature (°C) 12.0 1.0.5
Inorganic compounds
Copper 129 (—) 161
Iron 130,000t (--) 70,000t
Molecular sulfur LT (LT)
Organic compounds
*** ***
Nonpriority pollutant
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol2 250
Analysis done by direct aspiration because of high iron concentration.
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantttative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
*** Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in
drinking water or New York State standard for maximum concentration
in ground water.
252. CREEKSIDE GOLF COURSE (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 915123
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Creekside Golf
Course site is in the town of Amherst. Interviews by NYSDEC indicate that a
few hundred barrels were disposed of during 1946-53. Most are believed to
have contained phenolic tars and residues. Scrap metals from Occidental
Chemical-Durez and other sources have also been disposed of at the site.
The presence of ground water suggests a possibility for contaminant migra-
tion, but the potential is indeterminable.
286
-------
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three test holes on
the site in 1982; locations are shown in fig. B-35. The geologic logs are as
follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 6.5
6.5 - 10.0
Description
Brown clay and topsoil.
Brown clay: compact, ropey, and moist.
Fine sand, brown clay, substrate sample
was fine, soupy, gray-brown clay. Well
driven to 11.5 ft.
SUBSTRATE SAMPLE: 9.0 ft
GROUND-WATER SAMPLE: 11.5 ft
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 6.5
6.5 - 10.0
Brown clay and topsoil.
Tight, green, ropey clay.
Gray-green, soupy clay
SUBSTRATE SAMPLE: 9.0 ft
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 6.5
6.5 - 10.5
Brown clay and topsoil.
Tight, green-brown, ropey clay.
Brown-gray, soupy clay. Well driven
to 11.5 ft.
SUBSTRATE SAMPLE: 9.0 ft
GROUND-WATER: 11.5 ft
Hydrologic information.—The ground water probably flows north toward
Tonawanda Creek.
43°
03'
02'
78° 49'05"
EXPLANATION
»2 Monitoring well and water sample
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure B-35. Location of monitoring wells at Creekside Golf
Course, site 252, Amherst.
287
-------
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected two water samples
and three substrate samples in 1982 for organic-compound analyses; the results
are in table B-37. The only priority pollutant found was dibutyl phthalate in
substrate sample 3A at a concentration of 6.9 ug/kg. One nonpriority pollu-
tant was found.
Table B-37.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Creekside Golf
Course, site 252, Amherst, N.Y., August 25, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. B-35. Concentrations are in yg/L and
Ug/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
blank space indicates measurement not made, LT indicates it was
found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and
depth below land surface (ft)
Ground water Substrates Ground Water
1
(11.5)
1A
(9.0)
2
(9.0)
3
(11.5)
Substrate
3A
(9.0)
pH 6.6 6.4
Specific conductance (umho/cm) 715 750
Temperature (°C) 13.0 13.0
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Dibutyl phthalate 6.9
nonpriority pollutant
3,4-Dimethyl-
2-pentene1 — — — — . LT
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
288
-------
APPENDIX C
NIAGARA FALLS AREA SITE DESCRIPTIONS
A total of 71 waste-disposal sites in the Niagara Falls area were investi-
gated to determine the potential for contaminant migration. Thirty-one were
investigated and sampled by the U.S. Geological Survey during its 1982 test-
drilling and sampling program; the remaining 40 were evaluated through a
literature review.
Of the 71 sites investigated, 31 were designated as having a major poten-
tial for contaminant migration; the remaining 40 were designated as having an
indeterminable potential.
The following section describes the location, past and current disposal
practices, and potential for contaminant migration at the 71 sites; it also
presents the geologic, hydrologic, and chemical data. Site locations are shown
on plate 3.
280
-------
1. AIRCO ALLOYS (Literature review) NYSDEC 932001
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Airco Alloys site,
in the city of Niagara Falls, was used for the disposal of graphite plant
waste and slurried flue dusts. The site is monitored quarterly, and no signif-
icant contamination has been indicated. The waste materials were deemed
nonhazardous by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Overland runoff creates a large potential for surface migration from
the site.
Geologic information.—The site consists of unconsolidated deposits of clay,
stratified drift, and till overlying bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. Depth to
bedrock ranges from 11 to 24 ft.
Hydrologic information.—The site overlies two aquifers. The lower one is the
confined aquifer of the Lockport Formation, in which water-bearing zones are
generally limited to fractures in the upper zones of the Formation; the upper
one is an unconfined system within the unconsolidated deposits. The direction
of flow is probably southwestward.
Chemical information.—The site owner collected ground-water and surface-water
samples in 1979 and 1980 for chemical analysis. The ground-water samples
indicated little or no contamination, but the surface-water samples indicated
an elevated chromium concentration in water leaving the site. The owners plan
continued monitoring.
2. AIRCO SPEER CARBON-ORAPHITE (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 932002
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Airco Speer
Carbon-Graphite site, in the city of Wheatfield, was used during 1930-45 for
the disposal of 28,800 to 144,000 yd3 of furnace insulation, refractories, and
sand as well as 2,500 gal/min of linseed oil and 7 tons of asbestos fiber and
tape. Most of the area is paved to facilitate control and cleanup of process
dust.
The overburden at several points on the site is only 4 to 6 ft deep, and
the chemical analyses indicated high concentrations of organic priority pollu-
tants. The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site was built on a filled area of unknown com-
position overlying a lacustrine silty clay. Beneath the clay is Lockport
Dolomite. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test boring on the site in
1982; locations are shown in figure C-l. The geologic logs are on page 291.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water appears to be contained in the fractures
within the bedrock and was not encountered during the 1982 drilling.
290
-------
Boring no.
I)epth (ft)
0 - 2.0
2.0 - 6.2
- 4.0
- 2.1
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 4.2
Description
Topsoil.
Clay, reddish, some sand, fairly dry.
Sample: 6.2 ft.
Topsoil, black, gravel fin. nit
bedrock at 4.0 ft. Red clay mixed
in.
SAMPLE: 4.0 ft.
Red top soil. Hit bedrock at 2.0 ft.
sample: 2.0 ft.
Top soil, black.
Clay, sandy, red, dry. Hit bedrock
at 4.2 ft.
SAMPLE: 4.0 ft.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected four soil samples
at each test boring for organic compound analyses, but the samples exceeded
holding time and were recollected in May 1983. Results are given in table
C-l. The samples contained 14 organic priority pollutants, some in con-
centrations as high as 61,000 ug/kg, and five organic nonpriority pollutants.
«1 Test boring and
substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-l.
Location of sampling holes at Airoo Speer Carbon-
Graphite, site 2, Wheatfield.
291
-------
Table C-l.—Analyses of substrate samples from Airco Speer Carbon-Graphite,
site 2, Wheatfield, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. C-l. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
First sampling (07-14-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
123 4
(6.0) (4.0) (2.0) (4.0)
Organic compounds
Second sampling (05-27-83)
***
***
***
***
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
2A
(4.0)
3A
(2.0)
4A
(4.0)
Inorganic compound
Molecular sulfur
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Pyrene
Acenaphthene
Fluoranthene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
3,4-Benzofluoranthene
Chrysene
Acenaphthalene
Anthracene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene
Indenod, 2,3-cd)pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
Dibenzofuran
Carbon disulfide
Methylphenanthrene1
Benzo(b)naphthothiophene1
Methylbenzo(a)anthracene1
3,000
8,000
9,100
7,100
7,900
13,000
5,600
LT
LT
4,600
LT
4,000
30,000
LT
LT
LT
32,000
LT
34,000
24,000
49,000
43,000
23,000
LT
2,000
13,000
LT
19,000
12,000
61,000
LT
2,000
2,000
2,000
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
***Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study. No other
compounds detected.
292
-------
4. BASIC CARBON COMPANY (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932004
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Basic Carbon Company,
in the city of Niagara Falls, generated graphite, 30-percent coal-tar pitch,
carbon, and garbage wastes in unknown quantities. Whether any of these wastes
were buried on site is unknown. The site now is used as a storage area for
antique automobiles and similar machinery.
The clay unit beneath the site would inhibit downward migration, and ground
water, which would be the major mechanism for lateral migration, was not encoun-
tered. The U.S. Geological Survey samples may not represent conditions adjacent
to the site because the exact location of the buried material was unknown. The
potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled two test holes in
1982; the locations are shown in figure C-2. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 4.0 Topsoil, black with gravel at 1.0 ft.
4.0 - 6.5 Clay, sandy, greenish black. 6 inches
yellowish sand at 4 - 4.5 ft.
6.5 -10.0 Clay, pinkish, wet at top.
SAMPLE: 5 ft.
0
2.5
3.5
5.0
7.0
2.5
3.5
5.0
7.0
Topsoil
Topsoil and fill.
Sand, clayey, reddish,
Clay, sandy, greenish
Clay, pink.
SAMPLE: 6 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered during the test drilling
and may be restricted to fractures in the underlying bedrock. Additional
drilling would be needed to define the hydrologic characteristics beneath the
site.
EXPLANATION
1 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-2. Location of sampling holes at Basis Carbon
Company, site 4, Niagara Falls.
293
-------
ChemicajL information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected two soil samples for
organic-compound analyses; results are given in table C-2. The samples con-
tained 13 organic priority pollutants, most at concentrations below the quan-
tifiable detection limit, and seven organic nonpriority pollutants and some
unknown hydrocarbons.
Table C-2.—Analyses of substrate samples from Basic Carbon, site 4, Niagara
Falls, N.Y., May 26, 1983.
[Locations shown in fig. C-2. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(4.0) (4.5)
Organic constituents
Priority polluants
Acenaphthene * *
Hexachlorobenzene * —
Fluoranthene * * **
Naphthalene * *
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate *
Benzo(a)anthracene * * **
Benzo(a)pyrene * *
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene * *
Acenaphthylene * *
Benzo(ghi)perylene * *
Fluorene * —
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene * * **
Pyrene 52.0 * **
Nonpriority pollutants
Carbon disulfide — *
Dibenzofuran * *
2-Methylnaphthalene * *
1,2-Benzoisothiazole1 *
4-Fluoro-l.I'-biphenyl1 *
0-aniliophenylthiocyanate1 * —
Benzo(j)fluoranthene1 * *
Unknown hydrocarbons * *
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were above or below the acceptance limits.
294
-------
5. BELL AEROSPACE TEXTRON (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC Q32052
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Bell Aerospace
Textron site, in the town of Wheatfield, consists of a 60-ft by 50-ft neutrali-
zation pond that has been used since the 1950's. Wastes are held in the pond
until they reach a pH of 6 to 9 and are then discharged into a sanitary sewer.
The wastes generally consist of rocket fuels, nitric acid, sodium hydroxide
neutralizer, and plating wastes.
The site has a major potential for contaminant migration. The chemical
data show elevated concentrations of chromium and copper in soil away from the
pond. Results of an investigation by the property owners indicate that leachate
from the pond is migrating into the ground water. Additional data would be
needed to describe the geohydrology of the site.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled two boreholes on the
site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure C-3. The geologic logs are on
page 296.
78° 55'44'
Niagara Falls International
Airport
43°
06'
09'
Dike , .(•
•I lull- VKflllUl""
Treatment
"n -i
pond *T_J
,.,.
. \
Guard house | [
Gate 6
EXPLANATION
,1 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-3. Location of monitoring wells at Bell Aerospace
Textron, site 5, Wheatfield.
295
-------
Boring no. • Depth (ft) Description
1 0-3 Topsoil.
3 -9 Clay, red, hit hard zone at 9 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
2 0-1.5 Topsoil, black to gray.
1.5 - 4.0 Same as above, slag.
4.0 - 8.0 Clay.
8.0 - 9.0 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered during the test
drilling and is probably restricted to the lower unconsolidated units and
fractures in the dolomitic bedrock underlying the site.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a soil sample at
each test hole for cadmium, chromium, copper, and iron analyses; results are
given in table C-3. None of the heavy-metal concentrations exceeded those
samples of undisturbed soils in the area.
Ground water samples collected by the owner contained high concentrations
of dichloroethylene, trichloroethylene, methyl chloride, and vinyl chloride.
Table C-3.—Analyses of substrate samples from Bell Aerospace Textron, site 5,
Wheatfield, N.Y., July 1, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-3. Concentrations are in ug/kg.l
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(6.5) (5.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium 1,000 1,000
Chromium 10,000 4,000
Copper 14,000 7,000
Iron 15,000.000 1,700.000
Additional information.—Ooldberg-Zoino Associates of New York City made a pre-
liminary study of this site in 1982. In an unpublished status report, they give
the following results from six newly installed monitoring wells.
1. A ground-water mound seems to have formed below the pond; the direction of
flow is radial.
2. Estimated ground-water flow rate is 15 ft/yr.
3. Leachate from the pond has migrated to the water table and is moving
radially from the pond.
296
-------
The report also recommends the installation of additional monitoring wells and
continued sampling to help define the geohydrology of the site for use in
planning remedial action.
As part of an investigation by the site owner, several wells were drilled
on the site. Two water samples were collected at a downgradient well and were
analyzed for volatile organic compounds. Results are as follows:
Priority pollutants
Methylene chloride
Trichlorofluoromethane
1,1-Dichloroethylene
1,1-Dichloroethane
Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene
Chloroform
1,2-Dichloroethane
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
Trans-1,3-dichloropropylene
Trichloroethylene
Benzene
Tetrachloroethylene
Toluene
Ethyl benzene
Vinyl chloride
Mean concentration of two
samples (in yg/L)
125,000
15,000
375
140
14,000
910
15
630
27
420,000
66
38
65
26
665
Source of data.—Goldberg-Zoino Associates, 1982, Unpublished status report
about Bell Aerospace Textron site: New York, Goldberg-Zoino Associates.
7. CARBORUNDUM, BUILDING 89 (Literature review)
NYSDEC 93204Ra
General information and chemical migration potential.—The Carborundum Building
89 site, along Buffalo Avenue in the city of Niagara Falls, was used during
1972-78 to dispose of coolant containing 50 parts water to 1 part alkaline con-
centrate with citride amine, as well as steel chips and abrasive sludge. The
quantity of waste deposited was 5,200 gal/yr. The site has been remediated by
excavation of the surface soils.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable. Additional
sampling of soil and ground water would be needed to evaluate the effect of the
disposal practices on the underlying ground water.
Geologic information.—No site-specific information is available. The site
probably consists of fill and glacial material overlying bedrock of Lockport
Dolomite.
Hydrologic information.—No site-specific information is available. Ground-
water flow in the unconsolidated deposits is probably southward toward the
Niagara River; flow in the bedrock is probably westward toward the gorge.
Chemical information.—The site owners collected four soil samples for nitrate,
nitrite, and iron analyses. Data are available from the property owners.
297
-------
8. CARBORUNDUM,-BUILDING 82 (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932048-b
General information and chemical-migration potential.—Building 82 is at
Carborundum's Buffalo Avenue Plant in Niagara Falls. The area south of Building
82 is used as a transfer point for general waste products, which include silicon
dust and fibers. The waste is sent away for disposal. No geologic, hydrologic,
or chemical information is available. The potential for contaminant migration
is indeterminable.
9. CARBORUNDUM—ABRASIVE DIVISION (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932007
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Carborundum-Abrasive
Division site, in the town of Wheatfield, was an open dump used during 1968-76
to dispose of 800 to 1,600 pounds of phenols and 400 tons of solidified resins,
floor sweepings, and waste fillers, including calcium carbonate, clays, and
animal glue. This site has been remediated through the installation of a clay
cap, which was joined to the silty clay around the site. The potential for con-
taminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of clay and silty fill underlain by a
silty lacustrine clay, which is in turn underlain by a discontinuous layer of
till. These units overlie bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. A geologic cross sec-
tion is shown in figure C-4.
Southeast
565
50
100
T
150 200 250
DISTANCE, IN FEET
300
T,
350
400
Figure C-4.
Geologic aross section of formations underlying Carborundum-
Abrasive Division, site 9, Wheatfield.
(Modified from Conestoga-Rovers and Assoa., 1981.)
298
-------
Hydrologic information.—The property owners installed five monitoring wells on
the site; locations are shown in figure C-5. Water-level measurements taken in
1981 indicate ground-water flow to be northeastward. The potentiometric con-
tours and direction of ground-water flow are given in fig. C-5.
78° 56'01'
43°
06'
15"
Abandoned taxi strip
Grass
f\
Approximate area of landfill waste »^|_
EXPLANATION !
• OW1"81 OW3-81
•,585.23, .OW38^
Monitoring well and well number. '
Lower number is water level -^^^^^ \ \
measured March 3 1,1 981 ^"'"""'^s^ \ I
58° OWV8>4i
Potentiometric contour. (585.23)1 i
Interval 1 foot ^s^ i I
* ^x^L
a>
c w
c"| o Co
CD 3 >
°-&%
£e$
t
icrete pavement
0 50 100 FEET
OW4-8i^ *Storm sewer sampl ing station
(578.98) >J> Manhole 1
t * |\. Concrete pavement
k.' / \>
K /
Directionof ground-waterflow V *T. H \ /
OW2-81«\ PS. V /.OWB-Sl
(582.26) \ | ff\ ^ (5V9.2D
*§> i ] J^Slorm sewer
^ ' | TManhole2
ll
(f
3 Propane tanks-£_|
Grass
— x x * x „
Base and data from Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1981
Figure C-5. Potentiometrie surface at the overburden-bedroek interface and
location of monitoring wells at Carborundum-Abrasive Division,
site 9, Wheatfield.
Chemical information.—Advanced Environmental Systems collected eight ground-
water samples from each of the five monitoring wells and three manholes five
times from February through November 1981 for phenol analysis; results are shown
in table C-4.
Source of data.—Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1981, Hydrogeologic investiga-
tion, Landfill site, Carborundum: Toronto City, 25 p., 1 append.
299
-------
Table C-4.—Phenol concentrations in ground-water samples from Carborundum
Abrasive Division, site 9, Wheatfield, N.Y., 1981.
[Concentrations in ug/L, <1 = detection limit. Blank space
indicates no analysis performed.)1
Sample
Field Blank
Manhole 1
Manhole 2
Manhole 3
OW-1-81
OW-2-81
OW-3-81
OW-4-81
OW-5-81
Date of collection
2-17-81
3-4-81
250
53,500
11
9
17
25
50,000
7
8
24
9-15-81
1
Data from Advanced Environmental Systems, Inc.
OW
Observation wells.
10-6-81
2
14
13
30
11-24-81
3
6
<1
4
<1
4
8
6
4
5
1
4
2
<1
10. CARBORUNDUM, GLOBAR PLANT (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932036
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Carborundum Globar
Plant, on Hyde Park Boulevard in Niagara Falls, generated sand, fly ash,
pallets, incinerator ash and residue until 1962, and scrap containers and pro-
ducts, wood, pulp, and empty drums as waste. Plant wastes were temporarily
stored in the northeast corner of the property before onsite incineration or
offsite disposal. This site is no longer active, and the incinerator is not
used. No geologic, hydrologic or chemical information is available. The poten-
tial for chemical migration is indeterminable.
11. CHISHOLM RYDER (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932009
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Chisholm Ryder site,
in the city of Niagara Falls, was used to dispose of unknown quantities of ash,
cinders, rubble, grease, oil, metal turnings, and water-soluble coolant.
The potential for vertical contaminant migration may be high because the
overburden is shallow. The elevated concentrations of some heavy metals such as
zinc and the presence of organic priority pollutants indicate that sampling may
have been within the burial area. The potential for contaminant migration is
indeterminable because the hydrogeologic data are limited.
300
-------
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a veneer of ground-
moraine material that overlies bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. The U.S.
Geological Survey drilled three test holes on the site in 1982; the locations
are shown in figure C-6. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 1.5 Black organic soil.
1.5 - 2.0 Same, impenetrable materials, possibly
bedrock at 2 ft.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
0 - 3.5
3.5 - 5.0
5.0 - 6.5
6.5 - 8.5
Reddish brown topsoil.
Silt (?), tan, friable, some gravel,
dry, sandy.
Silt or clay, reddish, dry, some
gravel.
Same, impenetrable material, possibly
bedrock at 8.5 ft.
SAMPLE: 8.5 ft.
0 - 1.0
1.0 - 5.0
Black organic topsoil.
Clay, sandy, reddish, gravelly.
SAMPLE: 5 ft.
79° 02'45'
43°
07'
21'
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
2 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-6. Location of sampling holes at Chisholm Ryder, site llf
Niagara Falls.
301
-------
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was not encountered and is probably con-
fined to fractures in the underlying bedrock.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected three soil samples
for cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, mercury, zinc, and organic-compound
analyses; results are shown in table C-5. The concentrations of zinc in samples
2 and 3 are substantially higher than in samples collected in undisturbed soils
not affected by hazardous-waste-disposal practices. The samples contained 14
organic priority pollutants, 15 organic nonpriority pollutants, and some unknown
hydrocarbons.
Table C-5.—Analyses of substrate samples from Chisholm Ryder, site 11, Niagara
Falls, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. C-6. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2 3
First sampling (06-30-82) (2.0) (8.5) (5.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium 1,000 2,000 2,000
Chromium 10,000 2,000 3,000
Copper 5,000 3,000 12,000
Iron 13,000 26,000 1,500,000
Lead 10,000 20,000 50
Mercury — — —
Zinc 2,000 200,000t 220,000t
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A
Second sampling (05-25-83) (2.0) (8.5) (5.0)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Toluene — — 3.3**
Trichloroethene — — 4.8**
Phenol — — *
Fluoranthene * * *
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
T Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Niagara Falls area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
302
-------
*
*
*
*
*
Table C-5.—Analyses of substrate samples from Chisholm Ryder, site 11, Niagara
Falls, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. C-6. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A
Second sampling (05-25-83) (2.0) (8.5) (5.0)
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Naphthalene
ni-n-butyl phthalate
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene
Acenaphthylene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
Carbon disulfide
0-xylene
Benzole acid
Dibenzofuran
2-methylnaphthalene
Trans-2-chloro-cyclohexanol1
Dibutyl-dodecanedioate1
Di-isooctyl phthalate1
Trichlorofluoromethane1
Tetrahydrofuran1
Cyclohexane1
Methylcyclohexane1
1,1,3-Trimethylcyclopentane1
Cis-1,2-Dimethylcyclohexane1
1,1,3-Trimethylcyclohexane1
(l-Methylethyl)-cyclohexane1
1,3- and 1,4-Dimethylbenzene1
Unknown hydrocarbons1
*
*
*
*
*
43.7**
9.6**
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
303
-------
14. DUPONT, NECCO PARK (Literature Review)
NYSDEC 932047
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Necco Park landfill,
a 25-acre site in the city of Niagara Falls, was used during 1930-77 for the
disposal of 93,000 tons of sodium cell brick, graphite scrap and butts, sludge
from brine-plant salt dissolver, furnace brick and rubble, scrap Elvanol,
chlorinolysis residues, and other chemicals. The site has since been clay
capped, and the owner installed three wells on the south side of the site to
collect leachate that was infiltrating into the bedrock aquifer.
The potential for contaminant migration is major. The chemical data
collected at the site and adjacent areas indicates a leachate plume migrating
south-southeast from the landfill. The plume also has migrated into the upper
20 ft of the Lockport Dolomite, where it has been estimated to be moving
laterally at the rate of 100 ft/yr. No migration of contaminants to surface-
water bodies or sewerlines is evident.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a sequence of clays
that are underlain by Lockport Dolomite. The unconsolidated deposits range in
thickness from 0 to 20 ft. A generalized east-west cross section of the site is
shown in fig. C-7.
Hydrologic information.—The site owner installed several monitoring wells along
the periphery of the site and measured water levels in both overburden and
bedrock wells. The potentiometric surface of each unit in March 1981 are shown
in figure C-8.
Advanced Environmental Systems, Inc. (written commun., 1982) ran aquifer
tests at some of the monitoring wells. The transmissivity of the bedrock
aquifer is highly variable because of anistropy due to fractures.
Transmissivity values ranged from 195 (gal/d)/ft2 to as high as 8,399
(gal/d)/ft2 (Weston, 1979).
D-18
D-20
D-14
Red Clayw/Dolomite I
fragments
Figure C-7.
General geologic cross section of formations underlying Dupont,
Necco Park, site 14, Niagara Falls.
(Modified from Wehran, Inc., 1981.)
304
-------
EXPLANATION
573 Water-table altitude. Number is feet
above NGVD. Contour interval is 1 foot.
NEWCO solid-waste management facilities
20 ft easement
Dupont-Necco Park
Mohawk Power Corporation (R.O W
EXPLANATION N
573 Potentiometnc-surface altitude. Number is
feet above NGVD. Contour interval is 1 root.
NEWCO solid-waste management facilities
20ft easement
Dupont-Necco Park
Mohawk Power Corporation (R.O.W.
Figure C-8. Water1-table altitude (above) and potentiometr>ic-sur>faee altitude
of bedrock aquifer (below) at Dupont, Necco Park, site 14,
Niagara Falls, March 1981.
(Modified from Wehran, Inc., 1981.)
305
-------
Chemical information.—The site owners sampled three wells in June 1982; results
are given in table C-6. The analyses indicate high concentrations of many
inorganic and organic compounds from wells near the periphery, indicating the
offsite migration of leachate.
Table C-6.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Lockport Dolomite at Dupont
Necco Park, site 14, Niagara Falls, N.Y., June 25, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-7. Concentrations are in yg/kg
except where otherwise indicated.]^
Constituents
or characteristics
Well numbers
D-12
D-48
D-52
573.78
7.30
999.6
1,941
53,900
310,000
1,600
2,900
272,000
574.59
7.71
235.2
2,249
31,600
50,000
2,000
1,100
54,000
573.48
5.92
3,822
80,725
175,000
520,000
4,300,000
69,000
105,000
Ground-water altitude
(ft above NGVD)
pH
Chemical oxygen demand (mg/L)
Chloride (mg/L)
Ammonia, as nitrogen
Total organic carbon
Barium, soluble
Halogenated organic scan
(as chlorine lindane standard)
Total volatile halogenated
organics (as chlorine
tetrachloride standard)
Methylene Chloride
Chloroform
Carbon tetrachloride
1,1,2-trichloroethane
Tetrachloroethane
1,1,-dichloroethylene
Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene
Tetrachloroethylene
Trichloroethylene
Hexachloro-1,3-butadiene
Benzene
Toluene
Data from Advanced Environmental Systems, Inc.
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey conducted an electromagnetic
survey consisting of one line. The location is shown in fig. C-8; the data are
plotted in fig. C-9. This site was one of the few areas in Niagara County in
which no natural background conductivity could be found; this is attributed to
the long history of waste disposal in this area. As a result, no locations
along the traverse registered background or below-background conductivity.
Conductivity values, though fairly irregular, increase from west to east
until just west of pumping station 2 (fig. C-9). Although an overhead cable
crosses through this area, it could not be the sole cause of the high
1,300
26,000
63,000
12,000
19,000
530
5,400
34,000
45,000
700
<50
100
1,600
11,000
110
1,200
1,000
70
690
1,200
18,000
1,100
<50
45
3,000
18,000
14,000
6,100
14,000
130
2,100
3,000
14,000
42,000
800
590
306
-------
conductivity here. The probable cause is a change in the composition of buried
materials or a local subsurface flow pattern. At the extreme eastern end of the
traverse, the conductivity rises abruptly, probably the result of the NEWCO
sanitary landfill 10 ft away.
225
290
270 ,270
JLU
Landfill
Background conductivity
250
500
750
DISTANCE, IN FEET
Figure C-9. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey for Dupont,
Necco Park, site 14, Niagara Falls, N.Y.
Additional information.—Aquifer tests were conducted during the winter and
spring of 1982. Since then, two wells, nos. 52 and D-12, have been pumped to
control offsite leachate migration. Planned pumping rates are 5 gal/min for
well D-12 and 10 gal/min for well 52. Organic-phase liquid has been detected in
three wells along the southeast corner of the site. The site owner has begun an
investigation to determine the lateral and vertical extent of organic-phase
migration and has installed wells south of the two pumping wells to confirm the
effectiveness of the pumping program in controlling offsite migration.
The site owner samples the pumping wells weekly and other wells monthly.
To date, no significant trend in contaminant reduction has been noted.
Sources of data.—Weston, R. F., 1979, Hydrogeologic evaluation, Necco Park
Landfill: E. I. Dupont de Nemours and Co., Niagara Falls, New York: 14 p.,
6 appendices, 4 tables.
307
-------
15-19, and 250.' DUPONT, BUFFALO AVENUE FACILITY
(Literature review)
NYSDEC 932013a-f
General information and chemical-migration potential.—These three sites, which
are at the Dupont Buffalo Avenue plant in the city of Niagara Falls, contain six
disposal areas. Each area was used for different disposal practices, as
described below:
Site number & location
Type of waste
15 - west yard
16 - open dump
17 - building 117
18 - south boundary
19 - parking lot
250 - plant site 310
sodium cyanide
(cyanide leachate concentration
less than State ground-water
standard)
metal cyanide
(cyanide leachate concentration
less than State ground-water
standard)
trichloroethylene
perchloroethylene
(wastes excavated)
metal cyanide sludge
(wastes excavated)
metal sludge
cell bricks
rubble
demolition debris
(metals concentration in soil
less than background)
polychlorinated biphenyls
(wastes excavated)
Quantity
500 tons
500 tons
unknown
unknown
unknown
unknown
unknown
unknown
unknown
unknown
The geohydrologic setting suggests a major potential for contaminant
migration. Water samples from monitoring wells along the adjacent Moses Parkway
showed high concentrations of contaminants. If the direction of ground-water
flow is southward toward the Niagara River, these contaminants may have come
from the burial sites. Additional testing would be needed to confirm the source
of contaminants. A detailed remedial investigation program by the owner is
underway.
Geologic information.—The site was built on fill underlain by old river-bottom
sediments of silt and clay overlying Lockport Dolomite. The depth to bedrock is
approximately 10 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Hydrologic data on the individual sites are minimal.
On a regional basis, ground water in the unconsolidated deposits would probably
flow southward to the Niagara River or Gill Creek, whereas ground water in the
bedrock would flow northwestward toward the Niagara River gorge.
308
-------
Chemical information.—Recent test drilling and ground-water sampling by the
U.S. Geological Survey, south of the plant, along the north side of the Parkway,
indicates high concentrations of several contaminants. Well locations (RMP1 to
RMP6) are shown on plate 3. The results of the ground-water analyses are given
in table 18 in the main part of the report (p. 61).
21. FRONTIER BRONZE COMPANY (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932015
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Frontier Bronze
Company, in the city of Niagara Falls, is a storage area for spent foundry sand,
The site began operation in the 1960's and continues to receive sand at a rate
of 5 ton/d.
The potential for vertical contaminant migration may be high because the
overburden is shallow. Some organic priority pollutants were detected in soil
samples, but hydrogeologic data are lacking. The potential for contaminant
migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled two test borings on
the site in 1982; locations are shown in figure C-10. The geologic log is as
follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 6.2 Clay, reddish, some gravel. Bedrock
at 6.2 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 6 ft.
0 - 6.0
79° 00'17
Clay, reddish; hit bedrock at 6 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 6 ft.
EXPLANATION
2 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-10. Location of sampling holes at Frontier Bronze
Company, site 21, Niagara Falls.
309
-------
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered during the test
drilling; it is probably restricted to the fractures within the bedrock.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected two soil samples for
copper, iron, and organic-compound analyses; results are given in table C-7.
The samples contained no phenols but contained 10 organic priority pollutants,
four organic nonpriority pollutants, and some unknown hydrocarbons.
Table C-7.—Analyses of substrate samples from Frontier Bronze, site 21, Niagara
Falls, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. C-10. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
First sampling (07-08-82) (6.0) (6.0)
Inorganic constituents
Copper 4,000 6,000
Iron 150,000 870,000
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A
Second sampling (5-26-82) (4.0)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Acenaphthene * —
Fluoranthene * —
Naphthalene * —
N-nitrosodidi phenylamine * —
Benzo(a)pyrene * —
Acenaphthylene * —
Benzo(ghi)perylene *
Fluorene * —
Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene *
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene *
*
Nonpriority pollutants
Dibenzofuran *
2-Methylnaphthalene *
0-anilinophenylthiocyanate1 * —
Perylene *
Unknown hydrocarbons1 * ~
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
310
-------
22. GREAT LAKES CARBON COMPANY (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932016
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Great Lakes Carbon
Company, in the city of Niagara Falls, was used to dispose of unknown quantities
of carbon, graphite, packing sand, and furnace bricks. These materials have
been buried as fill, and the filled areas are now used for storage and other
plant operations.
Chemical data suggest that the potential for contaminant migration is prob-
ably limited, but here it is considered indeterminable because other data are
lacking. High concentrations of naphthalene were detected but may not indicate
migration because the sample may have been taken within the disposal area.
Additional sampling would be needed to confirm this, however.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a thin layer of unconsolidated
material overlying Lockport Dolomite. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three
test holes on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in fig. C-ll. The
geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 4 Topsoil and carbon dust.
4 - 6.5 Clay, greenish, wet at 5 ft.
6.5 - 11.5 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 3 - 4.7 ft.
43°
OS'
30'
Industrial area
0 - 2.0 Topsoil, hit somthing hard at 1.0 ft,
2.0 - 5.0 Sand, brown to mustard, clayey, wet.
5.0 - 6.5 Clay, tan, pink at 6.5 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 2.0 ft.
78° 59'38"
I 1
Pond
Power lines
i
•2
Disposal area I
X
- -- L
Industrial area
EXPLANATION
• 1 Test boring and substrate sample
*3 Surface-water sample
Parking area
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-l1.
Location of sampling holes at Great Lakes Carbon
Company, site 22, Niagara Falls.
311
-------
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered between 2 and 4 ft below
land surface. It probably represents a seasonal perched water table above the
clay unit.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected three soil samples
and one surface-water sample for organic-compound analyses; results are given in
table C-8. The samples contained four organic priority pollutants, with only
naphthalene (252 Ug/kg) above the quantifiable detection limit, as well as two
organic nonpriority pollutants and four possibly naturally occurring organic
compounds.
Table C-8.—Analyses of surface-water and substrate samples from Great Lakes
Carbon, site 22, Niagara Falls, N.Y., June 28, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-ll. Concentrations are in ug/L and
yg/kg; dashes indicate that compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Substrates Surface water
1
2
3
(0.2)
4
(0.2)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Naphthalene 252
Anthracene — — — LTt
Fluoranthene — — — LTt
Pyrene — — — LTt
Nonpriority pollutants
4-(l,1-dimethylethyl-
phenol1 — — 5 —
Butyric acid, thio,
5-decyl ester1 — — — LT
Benzoic acid1 — — 21
Compounds potentially of natural origin
Hexanoic acid1 — — 9
Pentanoic acid1 — — 18
2-methylbutanoic acid1 — — 10
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
T Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
312
-------
38. OCCIDENTAL. CHEMICAL, LOVE CANAL (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932020
General information and chemical-migration potential. — The Occidental Chemical,
Love Canal site, a 16-acre site in the city of Niagara Falls, was used during
1942-53 for disposal of industrial toxic materials and municipal waste. During
this time, 21,800 tons of toxic waste were deposited. A detailed description of
the type and quantity of the wastes is given below. A complete history of the
site is given by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1982).
Type of waste
Total estimated quantity (tons)
Miscellaneous acid chlorides other than
benzoyl — includes acetyl, caprylyl,
butyryl, nitro benzoyls
Thionyl chloride and miscellaneous
sulfur/chlorine compounds
Miscellaneous chlorination — includes
waxes, oils, naphthalenes, aniline
Dodecyl (Lauryl, Lorol) mercaptans (DDM) ,
chlorides and miscellaneous organic
sulfur compounds
Trichlorophenol (TCP)
Benzoyl chlorides and benzotrichlorides
Metal chlorides
Liquid disulfides (LDS/LDSN/BDS)
Hexachlorocyclohexane (y-BHC/Lindane)
Chlorobenzenes
Benzylchlorides — includes benzyl chloride,
benzyl alcohol, benzyl thiocyanate
Sodium sulf ide/sulfhydrates
Miscellaneous - 10 percent of above
Total
400
500
1,000
2,400
200
800
400
700
6,900
2,000
2,400
2,000
2,000
21,800
Remedial measures have been taken at the site, including the installation of
a clay cap, use of a leachate-collection system, and a leachate-treatment plant.
Remedial measures are also being taken under Federal Superfund Program,
including cleaning of storm sewers and sanitary sewers and installation of an
expanded and improved cap.
313
-------
Before the' leachate-collection system was installed, the geologic and
hydrologic data indicated a major potential for contaminant migration. The
chemical data indicated that leachate had migrated to adjacent surface water
through storm sewers. Contaminants were detected in Black, Bergholtz, and
Cayuga Creeks; and in the 102nd Street delta in the Niagara River.
Geologic information.—The site and adjacent areas consist of fill and glacial
unconsolidated deposits of lacustrine clay and till underlain by Lockport
Dolomite and Rochester Shale. A summary of the units is given below.
Hydrologic information.—By 1983 a total of 174 ground-water monitoring wells
had been installed in the unconsolidated deposits and bedrock; the locations are
shown in figure C-12. The water levels are depicted in figure C-13.
Generalized stratigraphic column of formations underlying
Occidental Chemical, Love Canal, site 38, Niagara Falls
(Modified from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1982.)
TvTZ
/ / /
/it
T / 1 I
J / /
'•—!=-.
Syitttn
Quaternary
1 Silurian
V
«j
3
Middle
u
ti
i
Formation
Unit
rill
Lacuatrina
D«po«lt«
Till
Loekport
Do lorn It.
Roch.it.tr
Shala
Thicknaaa
(Paat)
0.1-J
C-14
1-2S
160-180
to
Ganaral Caologlc and Hydrologic Charactarlatlci
- Covura naarly antira atudy araa
induatrial waataa
throughout ragion and conaiat of loamy to aandy clayr aoma-
timaa axpoaad at aurfaca in undiaturbad arafta
from north to aouth in vicinity of canal
- Upptr aaquanca dapoaltad In (orm.r Laka Tonawanda (J-8 faat
thick) la raddlah brown to gray, molat, firm to vary firm.
varvad, ailty-clfty to clayi daaaication cracka raportad in
•alactlva araaa within aaquanca
- Lowar aaquanca (3-20 faat thick) attributabla to forma r Laka
Dana la raddiah brown, vary molat to wat, vary plaatic* vary
aticky, ailty-clay to clay
- Parmaabllity of laeuatrlna dapoalta la a. n. rally low
- Raddlah brown, molat, firm, allty to aandy clay with graval
and cobblaai aandy Bonai, wall-aortad *jraval
- Two or thraa ridgaa of till orlantad NE-SW ara in Canal Araa
- Ganarally low parmaability
- Xpproilmataly $-30 faat thick in Canal Araa
- Dark gray to brown, maaaiva to thin baddad riolomita rtipplnq
at low angla to aouthi aacondary ri.po.lt. of aultldaa,
aut fatai, and carbonata. occur throughout tha formation
- Principal aquifar in Niagara Palla araai mA)or producing
zonal in uppar part of formation
- Artaaian and unconfinad watar tabla conditLona axiat aaaoei-
atad with vartical fractura tonaa, cavitiaa formad by aolu-
tion of minarala and batwaan badding planaa
- Vartical joint ayatam hydraulically connactad to Niagara'
Rlvar
- Dark-grty calearaoui aha la i ralatlvaly imparmaibla
314
-------
EXPLANATION
.99555 Location and number of monitoring
well screened in the overburden
Base and data from USEPA, 1982
.9901B
995EO»
» \ I
\.02040 I
,020,, \ I .110M ,„&
"\ .02043 | ^O3'
\ .0204* CANAl
-03513 AREA
J .0351$ ,1,039
I 1.11017
03524 ,„,
.03517 . [."047 |
03518 .IV
.09019
.09015
EXPLANATION
Location and number of monitoring
well screened in the upper part of
the Lockport Dolomite
.10041
.10051
Figure C-12.
Location of monitoring wells screened in unconsolidated deposits
(left) and in bedrock (right) at Occidental Chemical, Love Canal,
site 38, Niagara Falls.
-------
ON
564.6
564.7
564J 5645
r
567 O 561.6
5695
X
5S2.9
564 6
,Canal area
566.6
566.3
565.0 S6
56 .7 569.3
5653
EXPLANATION
565.0 Number is water level in feet above mean sea level
from wells screened in overburden monitoring wells
Base and data from USEPA, 1 982
Figure C-13.
**.
564.7
,'643 *
564.9
564
.9
x
564.8
S64.7 563
5642
565.2
rCanal area
565.4
565.3
565.3
EXPLANATION
565.0 Number is water level in feet above mean sea level
from wells screened in the upper part of the Lockport Dolomite
—564.0— Water-level contour. Contour interval 0.5 feet
Water levels -in unconsolidated deposits (left) and in bedrock
(right) at Occidental Chemical, Love Canal, site 38, Niagara Falls.
-------
Field tes-ting gave the following estimates of permeability of the various
units:
lower lake deposits 10~8 cm/s artificial fill M0~5 cm/s
till 10~7 cm/s upper lake deposits 10~7 cm/s
Pumping tests were conducted in wells tapping the Lockport Dolomite.
Transmissivity was calculated to be 0.015 ft2/s, and the storage coefficient
1.49 x 10-4 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1982).
Ground-water movement through unconsolidated deposits is probably toward
Bergholtz and Black Creeks to the north, Cayuga Creek to the west, and Little
Niagara and Niagara Rivers to the south. Ground-water gradients in the Lockport
Dolomite indicate the direction of flow to be south and southwestward toward
the Niagara River.
Flow velocities given by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1982)
are as follows:
- Vertical velocity in the clay is approximately 0.001 in/yr;
- Horizontal velocities in the rest of the overburden range from 1
to 60 ft/yr, depending on the permeability of the material.
Chemical information.—Extensive chemical testing has been conducted for this
site, but the large quantity of data available make its inclusion in this report
impractical. The data are given in Environmental Protection Agency (1982, v. I
and v. II). A summary of chemical data on water from one well at the periphery
of the site, provided by NYSDEC, is presented in table C-9. This well (no.
77A), was used by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to
characterize the contaminants observed at the periphery of the site.
Sources of data.—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1982, Environmental
monitoring at Love Canal: EPA-600/4-82-030a-d, v. T-III, 2823 p.
Table C-9.—Chemical data from well 77A in the southwest part
of site 38. [Data from USEPA, 1982.]
Concentration (yig/L)
Priority pollutants Maximum Mean
1,1-Dichloroethethylene 1 0.5
Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene 14 8
Chloroform 80 62
Benzene 500 430
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane 500 267
Tetrachloroethylene 320 186
Toluene 500 475
Chlorobenzene 500 371
Ethylbenzene 11 6
1,1,1-Trichloroethane Trace Trace
317
-------
Table. C-9.—Chemical data from well 77A in the southwest part
of site 38 (continued)
Concentration (yg/L)
Priority pollutants (continued)
Trichloroethylene
1 ,1 ,2-Trichloroethane
2-Chlorophenol
4-Chlorophenol
Phenol
2,4-Dichlorophenol
2,4 ,6-Trichlorophenol
1,4-Dichlorobenzene
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene
Naphthalene
a-BHC
S-BHC
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethyl phthalate
3-Chlorotoluene
4-Chlorotoluene
m-Xylene
p and o-Xylene
4-Chlorophenol
2,4 ,6-Trichloroaniline
1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene
2-Chlorotoluene
Maximum
157
11
Trace
Trace
3
507
734
190
130
Trace
Trace
Trace
5
17
Trace
500
500
2
1
Trace
Trace
Trace
304
Mean
79
6
Trace
Trace
3
507
734
190
130
Trace
Trace
Trace
5
17
Trace
500
328
2
1
Trace
Trace
Trace
152
39. OCCIDENTAL, HYDE PARK LANDFILL (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932021
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Occidental Hyde Park
landfill, a 15-acre site in the northwest corner of the town of Niagara, was
active during 1953-75 and was used for disposal of 80,000 tons of chemical
wastes related to production of fertilizers, plastics, and various industrial
products. Typical wastes deposited are listed in table C-10. The landfill was
clay capped, and a leachate-collection system was installed in ]979.
Chemical analyses of ground water from several wells suggest some migration
of leachate away from the burial area, but the lateral and vertical extent of
contaminant movement is not known. The log of one well describes a slurry of
mixed chemicals as deep as 26 ft below the top of the fill. Contaminants have
also been detected in ground water from 50 ft below the top of the Lockport
Dolomite, and nonaqueous chemicals have been found at this depth at a distance
of 700 ft from the site. Recent chemical data indicate that contaminants have
migrated through the full thickness of the Lockport Dolomite. Well locations
are shown in figure C-14.
318
-------
Contaminants in the upper unconsolidated deposits (lake deposits and till)
move slowly because the permeability of these deposits is low. The leachate-
collection system and clay cap would help deter horizontal contaminant movement,
but some contaminants could move vertically downward and enter the more per-
meable Lockport Dolomite. Johnston (1982) estimated that ground water in the
Lockport Dolomite in the area would take 4.9 years to reach the Niagara River
gorge, 3,000 ft to the northwest. Leachate may not move at the same rate as
uncontaminated ground water, however, and more data would be needed on the flow
regime of both the Lockport Dolomite and the underlying Rochester Shale to
determine the vertical and horizontal flow components. Water levels in wells
completed in the unconsolidated deposits and in bedrock near the landfill indi-
cate gradients to be west-northwest toward the Niagara River gorge. The site
has a major potential for contaminant migration.
The site is undergoing an intensive investigation by Occidental Chemical
Corporation that is being conducted under the terms of a negotiated settlement
agreement that was approved by Federal Court. As of 1983, 47 bedrock wells and
13 overburden wells have been installed along lines radiating outward from the
site. Chemical and hydrogeologic data from this investigation are available
from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, in Buffalo,
N.Y. These data indicate that contamination from the site extends to the top of
the Rochester Shale, that aqueous-phase migration has been detected east, north-
west, and southwest of the site, and that nonaqueous-phase migration has been
detected southwest of the site.
Geologic information.—Glacial deposits 10 to 35 ft thick and consisting of till
and lacustrine clay, silt, and fine sand overlie the Lockport Dolomite. Pebbles
occur sporadically in lake sediments, which might indicate this deposit to be a
till (reworked lake deposit).
The Lockport Dolomite in this area ranges from 90 to 130 ft in thickness.
Depth to bedrock is generally less than 15 ft east of the landfill, and
increases to about 35 ft west of the landfill. The upper 10 to 15 ft is the
most permeable zone (Johnston, 1982). Underlying the Lockport Dolomite is the
Rochester Shale, a relatively impermeable unit. Bedrock-surface contours in the
site vicinity are shown in figure C-15.
Table C-10.—Type of chemical wastes deposited at the Occidental Chemical-
Hyde Park Landfill, site 39, Niagara, N.Y., 1953-79.l
[Data from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.]
Calcium fluoride
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene
derivatives
Mercury brine sludge
Organic phosphates
Dechlorane
Benzotrichloride
Chlorotoluenes
Chlorindic acid
Dodecylmercaptan
Trichlorophenol
Benzotrifluoride derivatives
Benzoyl chloride
Liquid disulfides, chlorotoluene
based disulfides
Chlorobenzenes
Benzyl chloride
Thiodan
Miscellaneous chlorinations
Acid chlorides
319
-------
79° 02'02'
EXPLANATION
• 2 Well
• Dump
site
— Qa
•owV?"-?! |HVde Park Landfill site-«vja/lto>>3
OW7-78
•OW8-78
OW13-79 ^"«^_ *ef~
• IOW14-79 ^^^ c°
^_^ Property boundary ^^___L^S>,
. nTiTTTTTi i i ri fiTnTTT^T"~"'^^^
•OW28-80 • •! *m «OW24-80
OW29-80 OW26-80 W *OW25-80
UW27"8U Ao
TAM Ceramics Inc _o
OW31-80
• OW32-80
*OW30-80
-Town of Lewi ston-
Town of Niagara
. OW11-79
'OW12-79
Base from Conestoga, Rovers, and Associates,1980
Figure C-14. Location of monitoring wells, Occidental Chemical—Hyde Park
Landfill, site 39, Niagara Falls.
Hydrologic information.—The ground-water flow system in the area is described
by Johnston (1982) as a horizontally layered system bordered on three sides by
ground-water drains. These drains are (1) the Niagara River Gorge to the west,
which penetrates below the Rochester shale; (2) the canal of the Niagara River
Project to the north, which penetrates the Rochester shale; and (3) the buried
conduits of the power project to the east, which fully penetrate the Lockport
Dolomite. Ground-water recharge is estimated to be slightly less than 6 in/yr
(Johnston, 1982). Ground water entering the area moves to one of these three
discharge areas.
The ground-water flow regime was modeled by Johnston (1982), who suggests
that ground water in the immediate vicinity of the landfill in the upper 10 to
15 ft of the Lockport Dolomite flows northwest toward the Niagara River. The
potentiometric surface and direction of ground-water flow in the upper part of
the Lockport Dolomite is shown in fig. C-16.
Johnston's ground-water model indicates a ground-water divide east of the
landfill; ground water east of the divide flows eastward toward the conduits,
while ground water west of the divide flows northwestward toward the Niagara
320
-------
I l\ \ pr°PertV boundary S S~
Base from Conestoga, Rovers, and Associates, 1980
Figure C-15. Altitude of top of the Lockport Dolomite, Occidental Chemical—
Hyde Park Landfill, site 39, Niagara Falls.
(Modified from Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1982.)
River gorge. The model also indicates that ground water in the lacustrine unit
and till near the landfill flows horizontally (northwestward) and downward into
the Lockport Dolomite. Permeabilities calculated from pumping tests of wells
tapping the overburden or bedrock-till interface are given in table C-ll. West
of the landfill, ground water in the unconsolidated deposits flows mainly down-
ward.
The flow regime of the bedrock aquifer is controlled mainly by the distri-
bution of joints and fractures. The upper 10 to 15 ft of the Lockport Dolomite
is highly fractured and is the most permeable zone in the area (Johnston, 1964).
Beneath this zone, the joints are narrower, although some horizontal bedding
planes are partly open. Ground water in the upper Lockport layers flows north-
westward horizontally to the vicinity of the Niagara River gorge, where
weathering of the gorge wall has increased the vertical and horizontal frac-
turing and allows ground water to move downward (Johnston, 1982). Installation
of piezometers as close as possible to the gorge wall could verify this
interpretation. Most ground water flows through the upper and lower Lockport
Dolomite; only a small percentage moves through the Rochester shale and the
unconsolidated deposits.
321
-------
EXPLANATION
—580—Water-level contour. Shows altitude of
water level August 1980. Contour
interval 5 feet. Datum is NGVD
»580 Measured water level, altitude in feet
Direction of ground-water flow
»593
400 FEET
Data from Johnston, 1982
Figure C-16. Water levels in upper part of Lookport Dolomite, Occidental
Chemical—Hyde Park Landfill, site 39, Niagara Falls.
Estimated traveltimes for ground water to move the 3,000 feet from the
landfill to the gorge through the respective units are as follows: till,
years; upper Lockport Dolomite, 4.9 years; lower Lockport Dolomite, 6.0 years.
Estimated traveltime to move vertically to the bottom of the Rochester shale is
38 years (Johnston, 1982).
Chemical information.—Many ground-water samples have been collected on and near
the site; results of analyses are given in several progress reports by
Conestoga-Rover and Associates (1979a, b, c; 1980). In addition, the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency has collected soil and water samples along the
Niagara River gorge; results are given in a report by West Coast Technical
Service, Inc. (1982). The site is currently undergoing extensive sampling by
t he owne r.
The data collected thus far indicate that leachate generated in the land-
fill has infiltrated through the overburden and into upper part of the Lockport
Dolomite. Elevated concentrations of heavy metals and organic compounds have
been found in both units.
322
-------
Table C-ll.—Permeability of overburden at Occidental Chemical-Hyde Park Landfill,
site 39, Niagara Falls, N.Y.
[Locations are shown in fig. C-18. Data from Conestoga-Rovers and
Associates, 1978.]
Well
number1
OW 2-78
OW 3-78
OW 5-78
OW 6-78
OW 8-78
OW 9-78
OW 10-78
Average K
(permeability
factor (cm/s)
7.0 x 10~7
4.9 x 10-7
7.. 3 x 10-5
9.4 x 10-5
9.8 x 10-6
8.9 x 10-7
6.0 x 10~6
Location of
screen
overburden
interface
interface
overburden
interface
overburden
interface
1 Observation wells drilled in 1978.
Sources of data
Anderson, E. G., 1982, Hydrogeology review, Hyde Park Landfill: Ontario,
Canada, Gartner Lee and Associates, 19 p.
Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1979a, Progress report I, Hyde Park Landfill:
Waterloo, Ontario, Candada, 17 p.
1979b, Progress report III, Hyde Park Landfill, Bloody Run, and
102nd Street Landfill, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, 27 p.
1979c, Progress report IV, Hyde Park Landfill and Bloody Run:
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, 33 p.
1979d, Progress report V, Hyde Park Landfill, Bloody Run and 102nd
Street Landfill: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, 23 p.
_1980, Progress report VIIIA, Hyde Park-Bloody Run: Waterloo,
Ontario, Canada, 18 p.
Johnston, R. H., 1964, Ground water in the Niagara Falls area: New York Water
Resources Commission Bulletin GW-53, 93 p.
Masila, M. L., and Johnston, R. H., 1982, Simulation of ground-water flow in
the vicinity of Hyde Park Landfill, Niagara Falls, New York: U.S.
Geological Survey Open-File Report 82-159, 19 p.
West Coast Technical Service, Inc., 1982, Final report to the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (Water and soil samples from the Niagara
River Gorge): Cerritos, Calif., 78 p.
323
-------
40. OCCIDENTAL CHEMICAL COMPANY 102nd Street Site
(Literature review)
NYSDEC 932022
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Occidental Chemical
Company site, a 14-acre site in the city of Niagara Falls, was used during
1943-71 to dispose of the materials listed below. The site is currently (1984)
under litigation for cleanup and remedial action.
organic phosphates
sodium hypophosphites
inorganic phosphates
BHC cake
chlorobenzenes
Miscellaneous (10 percent, includes
other chlorinated organic compounds)
100 tons
20,000 tons
300 tons
300 tons
100 tons
2,200 tons
TOTAL 23,000 tons
Hydrogeologic data indicate a major potential for contaminant migration.
The fill overlies an alluvial deposit that is probably in hydraulic contact with
the river. Recent ground-water-level monitoring by the company has indicated
that ground-water flow is southward toward the Niagara River. Chemical sampling
of ground water on- and offsite has indicated that migration is occurring.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying alluvial deposits
that are underlain by a glaciolacustrine clay. The clay overlies a thin layer
of till that overlies bedrock of Lockport Dolomite.
Twenty-four test borings were drilled on the site, the geologic logs are
given in Conestoga-Rovers and Associates (1980).
Hydrologic information.—Water levels were measured periodically from August
1979 through March 1980 and are reported by Conestoga-Rovers and Associates
(1980). A few localized ground-water mounds have been detected in which water
levels are higher than the river stage. Recent studies by the company indicate
that ground water flows southward from the site to the river, which is also the
ground-water flow direction at adjacent sites.
Chemical information.—No chemical information on the site was available in 1983,
Sources of data
Conestoga-Rover and Associates, 1979a, Site investigation and monitoring
program, 102nd Street Landfill, Hooker, Niagara Falls, New York: 20 p.,
2 maps.
1979b, Progress report V, Hyde Park Landfill, Bloody Run, 102nd Street
Landfill, Hooker, Niagara Falls, New York: 23 p., f> tables, 3 maps,
3 appendices.
1979c, Progress Report VI, Hyde Park Landfill, Bloody Run, 102nd Street
Landfill, Hooker, Niagara Falls, New York: 18 p., 1 appendix, 1 map.
324
-------
Sources of data (continued)
1980, Progress Reports VIIIB, 102nd Street Landfill, Hooker, Niagara Falls,
New York: 2 p., 2 tables, 1 appendix.
Neruda, F. D.,1980, Niagara Frontier inactive waste disposal sites, Hyde Park
Landfill, Bloody Run, 102nd Street Landfill, 'S' Area Landfill, site con-
ditions and proposed remedial action: Niagara Falls, N.Y., Hooker, 31 p.,
14 figs., 1 appendix.
4la. OCCIDENTAL CHEMICAL-BUFFALO AVENUE, S-AREA NYSDEC 932019-a
(Literature review)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The S-area, a 16-acre
landfill in the southeast corner of the Hooker-Buffalo Avenue plant, was used
to dispose of 63,100 tons of organic phosphates, acid chlorides, phenol tars,
thionyl chloride, chloridic acid (CgityCtyClg), trichlorophenol, benzoyl chloride,
liquid disulfides and chlorotoluene-based disulfides, metal chlorides, thiodan,
chlorobenzenes, and miscellaneous chlorinated hydrocarbons.
In 1978, organic chemicals were discovered in the shore shaft intake struc-
ture and forebay of the City of Niagara Falls water-treatement plant. The con-
tamination was traced to this site. The site is currently undergoing Federal
and State litigation.
Data collected on the site and along its perimeter indicate that chemical
migration is occurring and that remedial action is required; thus the con-
taminant-migration potential is major. Data are insufficient, however, to eval-
uate the rates and quantities of contaminant migration into the bedrock aquifer
or to the Niagara River.
The State and Federal Governments have negotiated with Occidental Chemical
Corportion to reach an agreement for investigation and remediation of the site.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill ranging from 8.5 to 17.5 ft in
thickness and overlying natural sand and silt deposits 14 to 17.5 ft thick.
Below these deposits is a till stratum 1 to 5 ft thick and composed predomi-
nantly of silt and rock fragments. The unconsolidated deposits are underlain by
Lockport Dolomite. Maps showing the surface altitude and thickness of the
clay/till unit are given in figures C-17 and C-18; a map of the bedrock-surface
altitude is shown in fig. C-19.
Hydrologic information.—Water-level and permeability data are available in
several reports by consultants. The data (not included herein) are summarized
below.
Measured water levels in the overburden wells in February 1980 were used to
construct a water-table map (fig. C-20). The map indicates a ground-water mound
with a maximum altitude of 572 ft above NGVD, which suggests that ground-water
flow at this site is essentially radial.
325
-------
EXPLANATION
Ground-water monitoring well
Borehole location
544 Clay/till contour
Note- All elevations Based on Hooker datum
562
Robert Moses
Industrial Wharf
0 50 1OO 2OOFEET
Base from Cones toga-Rovers and Associates, 1982
Figure C-17. Altitude of top of clay/till unit, Occidental Chemical-
Buffalo Avenue, S-area, site 41a, Niagara Falls.
326
-------
79° OOM9"
EXPLANATION
Ground-water monitoring well
Borehole location
3 •»— Clay/til I contour
Note- All elevations based on Hooker datum
Industrial Wharf
0 50 100 200FEET
Base from Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1982
Figure C-18. Thickness of clay/till unit, Occidental Chemical—Buffalo
Avenue, S-area, site 41a, Niagara Falls.
327
-------
EXPLANATION
Ground-water monitoring well
Borehole location
542—~ Bedrock contour
Note: All elevations based on Hooker datum
Industrial^ Wharf
0 50 100 200FEET
Base from Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1982
Figure C-19. Bedrock-surface altitude, Occidental Chemical—Buffalo
Avenue, S-areat site 41 a, Niagara Falls.
328
-------
Water levels measured in observation wells screened In the bedrock yielded
the values shown on the potentiometric map in fig. C-21. The map indicates that
ground-water flow is toward the northwest. A small ground—water mound of 0.5 ft
is indicated, but additional data would be needed to confirm it.
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham (1980) ran permeability tests at obser-
vation wells screened in the fill and overburden and obtained permeability
values of 0.10 to 10 (gal/d)/ft2 (5 x 10~4 to 5 x 10~6 cm/s) for the lower over-
burden stratum of very fine sand and 70 to 100 (gal/d)/ft2 (3 x 10~3 to S x
10~3 cm/s) for the upper stratum of fill. These values indicate that ground
water would move considerably faster in the fill than in the underlying
material.
EXPLANATION
Ground-water monitoring well
Water-table contour, number is
feet above NGVD. Contour
interval 1 foot
Moses Parkway
Base from Leaflette, Brashears, and Graham, i960
Figure C-20. Water levels of February 1980 in the S-area, Occidental Chemical-
Buffalo Avenue, site 41at Niagara Falls.
329
-------
79° 00'19'
Robert Moses Parkway
I ntakes
EXPLANATION
Ground-water monitoring well
560.0— Potentiometric contour. Number is
feet above NGVD. Contour
interval 0.5 feet.
Base from Legg«tt«, Brashears, and Graham, 1979
Figure C-21. Potentiometric surface of bedrock aquifer, April 1979,
Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue, S-area, site 41a,
Niagara Falls.
330
-------
Chemical information.—Extensive chemical data are given in unpublished reports
by consultants for Federal, State, and local agencies involved in the litigation
proceedings.
Chemical data from samples collected by the site owner from a well south of
the Robert Moses Parkway along the Niagara River and wells along the southern
part of the S-Area indicate high concentrations of organic contaminants. The
compounds and their concentration maximums and means are as follows:
Concentration(ug/L)
Priority pollutants Maximum Mean
trans-1,2,-Dichloroethylene 261 162
Chloroform 1,750 530
Trichloroethylene 6,870 1,774
Benzene 3,860 1,799
Toluene 1,420 588
Chlorobenzene 4 160 1,781
Phenol 2,990 1,184
Dichlorobenzenes 2,980 758
Hexachloroethane 4 450 912
Hexachlorobutadiene 22,800 4,995
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene \2 000 2,400
Hexachlorobenzene 25,200 5,319
Carbon tetrachloride 7,400 1,496
Trichlorophenols 1,280 257
Mirex 1,610 463
1,1 ,2,2-Tetrachloroethylene 15,400 5,621
Nonpriority pollutants
Trichlorobenzenes 50,400 11,318
Tetrachlorobenzenes 223,000 45,521
Monochlorotoluenes 9,300 2,264
Dichlorotoluenes 5,840 1,271
Octachlorocyclopentene 15,000 3,000
Pentachlorobenzene 1,200 255
Data from Occidental Chemical Corporation, 1983.
Sources of data
Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1982, Overburden investigation, S-area,
December 1981 to March 1982: Waterloo, Ont., Conestoga-Rovers and
Associates.
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, 1979, Shallow ground-water quality investiga-
tion, Hooker Chemicals and Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls, New York plant:
Westport, Conn., Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 2,
7 p., 8 figs., 3 append.
331
-------
41b-49. OCCIDENTAL CHEMICAL—BUFFALO AVENUE PLANT, NYSDEC 932019b-i
(Literature review)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—Occidental Chemical-
Buffalo Avenue Plant sites 41b through 49 are considered together herein because
of their proximinity to one another. The sites contain mostly unknown quantities
of organic chemicals, metals, chlorides, sulfides, and phosphorus compounds.
Approximately 120 monitoring wells have been installed by the site owners
to determine the hydraulic gradients and extent of ground-water contamination.
Hydrogeologic data indicate a major potential for lateral contaminant
migration, but clay deposits underlying the site would retard downward movement
of contaminants into the bedrock. Offsite migration is occurring as a result of
ground-water infiltration into sewerlines. Ground-water sampling would be
needed to determine the rate and extent of the migration, however. These sites
are the subject of New York State litigation.
Geologic information.—Approximately 120 geologic logs of wells and borings in
and around the sites are published in a report by Leggette, Brashears, and
Graham, Inc., (1980).
During postglacial time, the Niagara River flowed over the southern part of
the site. North of this area the site consists of poorly sorted till, averaging
13 ft in thickness, that overlies very fine sand and (or) a clay layer averaging
6 ft thick. These layers are underlain by till that, in turn, overlies the
Lockport Dolomite (Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., 1978). South of the
ancient shoreline, the clay is mostly absent, and the till also thins or is
absent; consequently the very fine sand and till are thicker (Leggette, Brashears,
and Graham, Inc., 1979). Geologic cross sections of the southern and eastern
plant boundaries are shown in Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc. (1979).
Hydrologic information.—Water levels in wells installed in the unconsolidated
deposits indicate some ground-water mounds, but the main direction of flow is
southward toward the Niagara River (fig. C-22 and C-23. Permeability measure-
ments were made at 13 wells (table C-12), and artificial fill was found to be
the most permeabile unit at most locations. Permeability of the clay and till
was not evaluated.
Water levels in wells tapping the Lockport Dolomite indicate ground water
to be moving northwestward, away from the Niagara River (fig. C-24). At these
sites, the Lockport Dolomite is recharged by the Niagara River, and water levels
in wells tapping the Lockport Dolomite fluctuate with the river stage and at
approximately equal altitudes, indicating a hydraulic connection between bedrock
and the river (Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, 1979). Water-level measurements
in the Lockport Dolomite were not obtained far enough north of the site to
determine the extended path of ground-water migration or eventual discharge
area. Ground water may flow north-northwest to the Niagara Falls sewer system,
which then drains to the west toward the gorge.
Chemical information.—The site owner sampled 11 plant-site wells tapping the
unconsolidated deposits along the Robert Moses Parkway from May to July, 1980;
results indicate highly elevated levels of organic contaminants:
332
-------
Concentration (pg/L)
Priority pollutants Maximum Mean
Trichloroethylene % 400,000 71,790
Tetrachloroethylene 32,000 7,120
Toluene 2,940 435
Dichlorobenzene 31,000 5,830
Nonpriority pollutants
Monochlorobenzene
Chlorobenzotrif luoride
Chlorotoluene
Dichloro toluene
Trichlorobenzene
Tetrachlorobenzene
1,025
400
79,000
14
150
240
255
112
10,500
12
44
125
Data from Occidental Chemical Co.
Sources of data
Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 1981, Monitoring well installation details,
monitoring well water elevations, Hooker Buffalo Avenue plant and Drinking
Water Treatment Plant: Toronto, Conestoga-Rovers and Associates, 25 p.
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., 1979, Shallow ground-water quality
investigation, Hooker Chemical and Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls, New York
Plant: Westport, Conn., Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress
Report 1, 4 p., 13 figs., 1 appendix.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals
and Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn.,
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 2, 7 p., 8 figs.,
3 appendices.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals
and Plastic Corporation, Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn.,
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 3, 4 p., 3 figs.,
3 appendices.
1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals and
and Plastic Corporation, Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn.,
Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 4, 4 p., 4 figs.,
3 appendices.
_1979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals and
Plastic Corp., Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn., Leggette,
Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 6, 13 p., 20 figs.
JL979, Shallow ground-water quality investigation, Hooker Chemicals and
Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls, New York Plant: Westport, Conn., Leggette,
Brashears, and Graham, Inc., Progress Report 7, 12 p.
1980, Hooker Chemicals and Plastics Corp., Niagara Falls Plant, New
York, geologic logs: Westport, Conn., Leggette, Brashears, and Graham,
Inc., 162 p.
333
-------
Water-table contour. Number is feet above NGVD
Contour interval is 1 foot
Base from Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, 1979
Figure C-22. Water-table altitudes in overburden aquifer, June 1979,
Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue Plant, sites 41b
through 49, Niagara Falls.
334
-------
EXPLANATION
Water-table contour. Number is feet above NGVD
Contour interval is 1 foot
Base from Leggette. Brashears, and Graham. 1979
Figure C-23. Water-table altitudes in overburden aquifer, September 1979,
Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue Plant, sites 41b through
49, Niagara Falls.
335
-------
561 Potentiometric Contour. Number is feet above NGVD.
Contour interval is 1 foot
Base from Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, 1979
Figure C-24. Potentiometric surface of bedrock aquifer, June 1979,
Occidental Chemical—Buffalo Avenue Plant, sites 41a
through 49, Niagara Falls.
336
-------
Table C-12.—Results of permeability tests at Occidental Chemical, Buffalo Ave.
Plant, sites 41b-49, Niagara Falls, N.Y., January 7-8, 1980.1
Well
no.
B-5A
B-7A
B-8A
B-10A
B-10A
Saturated
thickness
(ft)
5.5
14.5
19.0
8.0
7.5
Transmissivity
(gal/d)/ft
390
195
106
1
63
2.
5
2
1
1
9
(cm2
.6
.8
.5
.5
.1
X
X
X
X
X
/a)
10-1
lo-1
10-1
10-3
10-*
Permeability
(gal/d)/ft
70.9
13.4
5.6
0.13
8.4
(cm/s)
3.3 x
6.3 x
2.6 x
6.1 x
4.0 x
10-3
10-1*
10-*4
10~6
10- *
Formation
material
Fill
Silty
Silty
Silty
Silty
fill
fill
fill
fill
B-13A
B-14A
B-14B
B-15A
B-16A
CW-1A
20.0
7.0
16.0
19.0
6.5
7.0
Recovered too
quickly for
evaluation
Recovered too
quickly for
evaluation
2
34
552
2.9 x 10"3
4.9 x 10"2
7.9 x 10-1
200* 9 x 10-3
200* 9.0 x 10-3
0.13 6.1 x 10~6
1.8 8.5 x 10~5
85 4.0 x 10-3
Recovered too
quickly for
evaluation
CW-1B 10.0
TRW-1A** 5.5
102
554
1.5 x 10-1
7.9 x 10-1
200*
10.2
100
9.0 x 10-3
4.8 x 10-t
4.7 x ID'3
Fill
Fill
Very fine sand
Very fine sand
Fill
Fill
Very fine sand
Fill
1 Data from Leggette, Brashears, and Graham, Inc. (1980).
* Arbitrarily assigned value.
** Pumping test run in July 1979.
51. TAM CERAMICS (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932028
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The TAM Ceramics site, in
the northern part of the city of Niagara Falls, contains several small shallow
landfills for disposal of obsolete equipment, ceramics, and metallic salts. The
site contains 12 monitoring wells (fig. C-25).
Nonaqueous-phase organic compounds have been found in the sewerlines of the
TAM property that are attributable to the Hyde Park Landfill (site 39). As a
result, several new wells were installed on the TAM property by Occidental
337
-------
Chemical Corporation as part of the aquifer survey program at the Hyde Park
site. Geohydrologic information would be needed to determine the movement of
contaminants from this site. The potential for contaminant migration is inde-
terminable.
Hydrologic information.—Water levels were measured in nine of the monitoring
wells. Water levels decrease with well depth and toward the west, which
indicates downward and westward movement of ground water. No water-level infor-
mation is available from wells 1, 2, or 3.
Chemical information.—TAM sampled wells 1, 2, and 3 in June 1979 and analyzed
for several metals, pH, 28 priority pollutants, and several other nonpriority
organic compounds. Well 1, nearest to the Hyde Park landfill, contained several
compounds in significant concentrations; data are available from NYSDEC,
Buffalo, N.Y.
OW21-80
OW22-80
EXPLANATION
»2 Well
• Dump site
OW20-79
• OW21-79
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I t
OW4-78
OW5-78
OW6-78
•OW28-80
OW29-80
•OW24-80
OW25-80
TAM Ceramics Inc
OW31-80
• OW32-80
Base from Conestoga, Rovers, and Associates,1980
Figure C-25. Location of monitoring wells at TAM Ceramics,
site 51, Niagara Falls,
338
-------
56. OLIN 102ND STREET LANDFILL (Literature review) NYSDEC 932031
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Olin landfill, on
102nd Street in the city of Niagara Falls, was used during 1948-70 for disposal
of chemical wastes. More than 80,000 tons of waste are buried on the site.
The types and quantities of waste buried at the site during 1948-70 are:
Substance Quantity (tons)
"Black Cake" 20,000
Graphite 742
Benzene hexachloride and 60
trichlorophenol mixture
Trichlorbenzene 150
a- and g-BHC cake 1,200
Tetrachlorobenzene 1,100
Lime sludge 23,900
Brine sludge 20,000
Hexachlorobenzene 60
Trichloroanisole unknown
Concrete 6,625
This site has a major potential for contaminant migration. A recent report
of the site by Recra and Wehran (1979) indicates a plume of contaminanted ground
water intruding the alluvial deposits of the Niagara River beneath the landfill
and discharging into the Niagara River. Additional data would be needed to
determine the rate of contaminant migration and the total amount of contaminants
entering the river. The site is currently under litigation for remedial action.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill and recent alluvial river sedi-
ments underlain by Pleistocene lacustrine clay and till. These unconsolidated
deposits are underlain by Lockport Dolomite. A generalized geologic column is
shown in fig. C-26.
The site owner drilled 21 test borings and monitoring wells on the prop-
erty. A geologic description of each boring is included in a report by Recra
Research Inc., and Wehran Engineering Corporation (1979).
Hydrologic information.—Water levels were measured in the monitoring wells in
January 1979. A cross section of the flow pattern and direction of contaminant
migrtion is gien in fig. C-27; a ground-water-contour map is given in figure
C-28. The contours indicate that ground water flows toward the Niagara River
and into adjacent streams and sewerpipes.
Chemical information.—Many water samples from wells and the Niagara River and
sediment samples from the river were collected. Results are reported in Recra
and Wehran (1979). The analyses indicate elevated concentrations of iron, man-
ganese, sodium, zinc, mercury, chlorides, sulfates, and total halogenated organic
within the ground water. Most of the halogenated organics were chlorinated.
Source of data.—Recra Research Inc., and Wehran Engineering Corp., 1979,
Hydrogeologic investigation, Olin 102nd Street Landfill, Niagara Falls, Niagara
County, New York: 98 p., 1 appendix, 13 figs.
339
-------
SYSTEM
^TERNARY
=>
O
z
<
cc
3
to
PERIOD
l-
LU
O
LLJ
IT
LJU
LUO
z<
ttz
PLEISTO
(WISCONSI
FORMATION
Fill
Alluvium
of the
Niagara River
Glaciolacustrine
Clay
— Conformable —
Glacial till
Great
unconformity
Lockport
Dolomite
COLUMNAR
SECTION
HHill!
:=i.'=--^_"^.—
"?•?:' X~:s?'fr*
•x^=S^'_L,- •» ••
-''fW-W
'"'•l^'Sy
r~\'*.\' N*V*»
&*&$
s'iiLui;,>vv
1 ,
71 _
JLJ-
'-, -
r^
^ [
THICKNESS
IN FEET
8-17
0-20.5
0-23-5
3-5-15
1 50*
CHARACTER
Demolition debris, flyash, chemical
wastes, brine sludges; 0.5 to
2.0 feet of soil cover
Black organic silt, soft, moderately
low permeability; grading to gray
silt and fine sand, loose, moderately
permeable; grading to gray-brown
coarse to fine sandy at base.
clean, loose, highly permeable
Gray, brown, and red-brown finely
laminated clay, highly impermeable,
firm to stiff at top. Very soft at base
Red-brown silty, gravelly sand,
some clayey zones, moderately
permeable
Gray laminated dolomite, seams of
gypsum; secondary permeability
along bedding planes, joints, and
minor solution channels; aquifer
Figure C-26.
Generalized
geologic column
of formations
underlying Olin
102nd Street
Landfill, site
56, Niagara
Falls.
* Drilling penetrated upper 15 feet
Figure C-27.
Profile of
ground-water
flow patterns
and contami-
nation plume,
Olin 102nd
Street Landfill,
site 56,
Niagara Falls.
Ground-water recharge area
Ground-water discharge area
Potentiometric surface in confined
to semi-confined Lockport dolomite aquifer
Potentiometric surface in semi-confined
aquifer with recent alluvium
Water table in landfill
EXPLANATION
•«— Direction of ground-water flow in aquifers .
Direction of ground-water flow in confining unit
1979 extent of leachate plume
| ) Probable ultimate extent of leachate plume
Alluvial deposits of the
Nt Niagara R4ver
Not to scale
^Southern extent of
hydrogeologic investigation
340
-------
78° 56'50"
43°
04'
20'
EXPLANATION
567 08 Altitude of water-table on
January 15, 1979
565-
Approximate ground-water contour
on January 13, 1979
Generalized ground-water
flow direction
Data from Recra and Wehran,1979
Figure C-28.
Water-table altitude at Olin 102nd Street Landfill, site 56,
Niagara Falls, January 15, 1979.
-------
57. OLIN INDUSTRIAL WELDING CORPORATION
(Literature review and USGS electromagnetic survey)
NYSDEC 932050
General information and chemical-migration potential,—The Olin Industrial
Welding Corporation site, north of Buffalo Avenue in the city of Niagara Falls,
was used as a landfill during 1974-60 for the disposal of 403 tons of brine
sludge with mercury waste and transformer oil that may contain PCB's and
miscellaneous industrial scrap.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable. No samples
(soil or water) were taken. Additional testing would be needed to determine the
presence of leachate migration.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying silt and silty clay
underlain by bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. Thickness of the unconsolidated
deposits ranges from 12 to 17 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was found in the fill overlying the silt-
clay unit; this is probably a perched water-bearing zone that forms during
seasons of high precipitation. Ground water also occurs in the silt-clay unit
above the bedrock. Regional ground-water flow in this zone is generally south-
ward, but in the bedrock it is generally northwestward.
Chemical information.—No chemical information is available except that the
waste material contains mercury (2,200 to 130,000 yg/kg), hexachlorobenzene (20
to 780 ug/kg), and hexachlorocyclohexane (40 to 48,000 yg/kg). The owners
estimate the rate of offsite migration of mercury to be 0.2 Ib/yr.
79° 01'27"
43°
05'
08"
EXPLANATION
Electromagnetic survey traverse
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-29.
Location of electromagnetic-conductivity survey lines at Olin
Industrial Welding Corporation, site 57, Niagara Falls.
342
-------
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey conducted an electromagnetic
survey with eight lines in 1982. Locations are shown in fig. C-2Q; the data are
plotted in fig. C-30.
125
cc
LU
Q.
t/3
O
• Open field
225
- 200
175
O 150
CJ
125
100
75
50
25
500
270 390 380 250
Mound
LINE 2
100 200
DISTANCE, IN FEET
300
Figure C-30. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at Olin
Industrial Welding Corporation, site 57, Niagara Falls,
lines 1 and 2.
343
-------
All conductivity lines but no. 8 were within a fenced area adjacent to
Packard Road, and all show unnatural variations from beginning to end. The
extremely high values at the beginning of line 4 seem to be related to the
nearby concrete foundations. Steel reinforcing rods in the concrete founda-
tions along lines 3,4, and 7 strongly affected the conductivity readings. The
extremely high values in the middle of line 2 are not explained but may indicate
locally buried conductive material or the edge effects of a buried conductor not
evident from the surface.
The areas in which conductivity was closest to background level are line 5
(west of the parking lot) and most of the southern half of line 6. Line 5 shows
stable conductivity values in the 20-25 tnmho/m range, and line 6 shows values in
the 45-50 umho/m range. These values suggest locally homogeneous fill of rela-
tively low conductivity.
Line 8, along Gill Creek, indicates that the bank is composed of or covered
with artificial fill, which would mask any evidence of a conductive plume
emanating from the site.
150
125
100
LLJ
Q_
CO
O 50
^ 25
LINE 3
Background conductivity
100
200
300
CJ
Q
§50
25
Background conductivity
50
25
0
Background conductivity
LINE 5
200
300 0
DISTANCE, IN FEET
100
Figure C-30 (continued). Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at
Olin Industrial Welding Corporation, site 57, Niagara Falls,
lines 3 through 5.
344
-------
CONDUCTIVITY, IN MILLIMHOS PER METER
-------
58, 59, 248.
OLIN, BUFFALO AVENUE
(TJSGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932051-a, b, 932038
General information and chemical-migration potential.—These three sites, at the
Olin Buffalo Avenue plant in the city of Niagara Falls, were used for land-
spreading of brine sludge containing mercury and possibly polychlorinated
biphenyls. Also on the property is a pond that was used to collect overflow
water from site 248, which contains traces of mercury.
Chemical data, proximity to the Niagara River, and the shallow overburden
indicate a major potential for contaminant migration. Some samples indicated
mercury concentrations to be above background levels. Additional sampling would
be needed to determine whether the contaminant is migrating into the ground-
water system.
Geologic information.—The sites consists of fill and debris underlain by a
sandy clay. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test borings on site 58
and six along the perimeter of sites 59 and 248 in 1982 (fig. C-31). The
geologic logs are on page 347.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered. If ground water were
in the unconsolidated deposits, the direction of flow would probably be south-
ward toward the river.
79° 01'50'
43°
55"
F
1 Site
1
1
^
Not to scale
Allen
• 2
58
Parking lot
Buffalo
1 Plant
1
Ave
3.
Ave
1 • 3 •
• Site 59
1 .2
,
co
1
4
»te
•1
.7]
Site 58
Parking lot
~
248 •X* | EXPLANATION
' »2 Test boring and
6 1 substrate sample
1
J
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-31. Location of monitoring wells at Olin Buffalo
Avenue, sites 58, 59, and 248, Niagara Falls.
346
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
Site 58
1 0-3.0 Topsoil.
3.0 - 3.5 Clay, sandy, yellowish, damp,
3.5 - 8.0 Clay, reddish, gravel, sandy.
Bedrock at 8.0 ft.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
0 - 2 Black topsoil
2 - 4.5 Clay, sandy, gravel, yellowish.
Bedrock at 4.8 ft.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
0 - 3.0 Topsoil, brown to black at 2.0 ft,
3.0 - 3.5 Clay, red.
SAMPLE: 3 ft.
0 - 1.5 Topsoil and gravel.
1.5 - 2.5 Sand soil, black.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
Sites 59 and 248
0 - 3.5 Soil, sand, gravel fill.
3.5 - 5.5 Clay, sandy, tan, damp.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
0 - 3.0 Gravel fill.
3.0 - 6.5 Sandy clay.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
0 - 1.0 Topsoil, brown.
1.0 - 4.0 Clay, sandy.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
0 - 2 Fill, debris, bricks.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
0 - 3.0 Topsoil, debris.
SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
0 - 1 Topsoil, debris.
SAMPLE: 1 ft.
347
-------
Chemical information.—Olin installed 10 monitoring wells in the eastern area of
the plant site adjacent to Gill Creek in 1980. Sampling during 1980-82 indi-
cates the following concentrations at the downgradient well, which was drilled to
the top of bedrock in the southeastern area of the plant:
Olin Plant Site - Downgradient Well
Concentration (yg/L)
Priority pollutants Maximum Mean
Mercury 21.5 13,
2-Chlorophenol 170 56
2,3 and 2,4 and 2,5 Dichlorophenol 83 33
Pentachlorophenol 50 23
Y-BHC (Lindane) 4,200 1,248
Nonpriority pollutants
Total halogenated organics
Total volatile halogenated organics
3-Chlorophenol & 4-Chlorophenol
2,4,5 and 2,3,4 Trichlorophenol
2,3,4,6 Tetrachlorophenol
14,000
9,400
98
140
50
4,087
4,287
47
49
23
The U.S. Geological Survey collected soil samples from each test boring for
iron and mercury analysis. Each sample was split with the site owner. Results
of the U.S. Geological Survey analyses are shown in table C-13. Mercury con-
centration in sample 6 of the pond borings exceeded concentrations from
undisturbed soils in the area. The samples contained eight organic priority
pollutants, of which only benzene (48,000 yg/kg) exceeded the quantifiable
detection limit, and two organic nonpriority pollutants.
Results of the site owner's analyses are shown in table C-14, which indi-
cates high concentrations of mercury in samples 3 and 4 from the parking lot and
samples 2, 4, 5, and 6 of the pond borings. Relative concentrations of organic
compounds between samples are indeterminable because the quantifiable detection
limits are unknown.
348
-------
Table C-13.—U.S. Geological Survey analyses of substrate samples from Olin
parking lot and Olin mercury ponds, sites 58, 59, and 248,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., August 9, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-31. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
PARKING LOT
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 (Split) 234
(3.5)
(4.0)
(3.0)
(2.5)
Inorganic constituents
Iron 1,300,000 (7,100,000) 830,000
Mercury — (—) —
Organic compounds ***
Nonpriority pollutant
Hexamethylcyclo-
trisiloxane1 —
MERCURY PONDS
***
***
3,000
2,800,000 1,800,000
330tt 10
***
3,200
A**
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1
(3.5)
2
(4.0)
3
(2.0)
4
(2.0)
5
(2.5)
6
(2.0)
Inorganic constituents
Iron 2,600,000 1,800,000 1,000,000 1,900,000
Mercury 40 80 -- 14
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Phenanthrene
Fluoranthene
Pyrene
Benzoanthracene
Chrysene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene
Benzo(k)fluoranthene
Benzene
Nonpriority pollutants
3-Hexen-2-one1
Hexamethylcyclotri-
siloxane1
***
***
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
***
***
48,000
5,100
2,700
940,000 1
60
***
,400,000
220t1
***
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. The
concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Niagara Falls area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
*** Samples analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
349
-------
Table C-14.-
-Site owner's analyses of substrate split samples from Olin parking
lot and Olin mercury ponds, sites 58, 59, and 248, Niagara Falls,
N.Y., August 9, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-31. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found. Data from Olin
Incorporated, 1982.]
PARKING LOT
Inorganic constituents
Cyanide, total
Mercury, total
Mercury extract
Organic compounds
Polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAH)
Chlorobenzenes
Hexachloro butadiene
Chlorinated methanes
and ethanes
Other volatiles
Pesticides, Non-BHC
Pesticides, BHC
MERCURY PONDS
Sample number and depth
1 2
(3.5) (4.0)
_- _ __
170 300
<500 <500
«6,000
—
— —
<10 <52
<10 <20
—
<41
Sample number and depth
1 2 3
(3.5) (4.0) (2.0)
below land
3
(3.0)
1,400
4,500tt
<500
«10,000
«4,000
<2,000
<580
<138
<55
<45
below land
4
(2.0)
surface (ft)
4
(2.5)
4,800
20,000tt
<500
«12,000
«12,000
—
<50
<30
—
<137
surface (ft)
5 6
(2.5) (2.0)
Inorganic constituents
Cyanide, total
Mercury, total
Mercury extract
Organic compounds
2,000 1,200
17,000t 6,700tt
<0.5 <0.5
<80 40,000t
<0.5 <0.5
2,800tt
<0.5 <0.5
Polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons <«27,200
Chlorobenzenes «4,000
Hexachlorobutadiene <2,000
Chlorinated methanes
and ethanes <«59
Other volatiles <66
Pesticides, Non-BHC 40
Pesticides, BHC 92
<«37,300
<2,000
—
«140
<21
40
<20
<«44,300
<4,000
—
11 <229
<420
—
<125
<«22,000
<2,000
<2,000
<10 «52
<10
—
106
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the Niagara Falls
area.
350
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62. STAUFFER-CHEMICAL, NORTH LOVE CANAL (Literature review) NYSDEC 932034
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Stauffer Chemical,
North Love Canal site, in the town of Lewiston, was used by Stauffer during
1930-52 to bury approximately 50,000 yd3 of waste asbestos, cell parts, reactor
linings, scrap sulfur, other metallic industrial wastes, and possibly flux. The
site was then covered, and a housing development has been built over it.
Previous studies indicate the potential for contaminant migration to be
limited, but the potential is indeterminable from the limited data. Some chemi-
cal constituents have been detected at high concentrations in offsite soil and
water samples. Periodic sampling would be needed to confirm the migration of
leachate, however.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a few inches of organic topsoil
overlying a reddish-brown clayey silt or till, ranging in thickness from 1.5 ft
to 17 ft (Dominion Soil Investigations, Inc., 1979). The underlying bedrock is
Lockport Dolomite.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered in the lower part of the
till unit. The direction of ground-water flow is northward. Ground-water flow
in the underlying bedrock is also probably northward toward the Niagara
Escarpment.
Chemical information.—Chemical data on soil and water samples are summarized in
a report by Dominion Soil Investigations, Inc. (1979). Results indicate high
concentrations of fluoride, magnesium, nitrate, and sulfate within the site.
Sources of data
Dominion Soil Investigations, Inc., 1979, Report of Lewiston Escarpment
Project, analysis of subsoil conditions, Whittaker Subdivision, Lewiston,
New York: Dominion Soil Investigations, Inc., 18 p., 2 tables, 1 enclosure
Moriarty, L. R., 1979, Report on Love Canal Section, Lewiston, New York: U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Rochester Program Support Branch, 8 p.,
1 addendum.
63. STAUFFER CHEMICAL—ART PARK SITE NYSDEC 932049
(USGS field reconnaissance)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Stauffer Chemical—
Art Park site, in Lewiston, was used for the disposal of unknown quantities of
asbestos, graphite, cinders, reactor linings, scrap sulfur and metal, and sili-
con, zirconium, and titanium oxides. Most of the waste had been covered by
1979, and the site is now a park.
Chemical data indicate the potential for contaminant migration to be
limited. However, proximity to the Niagara River and the closeness of fractured
bedrock to land surface suggest that migration could occur, but additional data
would be needed to substantiate this. The potential for contaminant migration
is indeterminable.
351
-------
Geologic Information.—The site consists of a thin mantle of till underlain by
dolomitic limestone. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three test borings in
1982 by hand auger to bedrock, which was encountered within 3 ft. The bedrock
appeared to be shale; the overburden consists of topsoil and clean fill.
Locations of the borings are shown in fig. C-32.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered during the test
drilling; ground water is probably restricted to fractures within the shale.
The direction of ground-water flow is westward toward the river.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected three soil samples
and one surface—water sample for organic—compound analyses; no organic compounds
were detected.
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey made an electromagnetic sur-
vey at the site in 1982. The steep topography west of the site allowed only two
practical locations for conductivity lines; these are shown in fig. C-32; the
data are plotted in fig. C-33. Line 1 was along the bank of the Niagara River;
line 2 was along a path parallel to, but much higher than, line 1. The first
300 ft of line 1 show mostly background values, but at least two buried objects
are indicated. Less irregularly spaced buried materials are indicated between
300 and 700 ft, but the fluctuations remain within a general trend of elevated
values. Beyond 700 ft, a gradual decline in conductivity is indicated, which
Storm dram outlet
Disposal area
EXPLANATION
2 Test boring and substrate sample
Surface-water sample
Electromagnetic survey traverse
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-32. Location of sampling holes and electromagnetic-conductivity survey
lines at Stauffer Chemical—Art Park Site, site 63, Lewiston.
352
-------
may reflect a local contact between shale and dolomite. This decrease is
clearly visible in line 2. The elevated values at the beginning of line 2 are
caused by a local drainage pipe.
Although most of line 2 is above the background conductivity range typical
for Erie and Niagara Counties. It probably indicates natural conditions because
background conductivity would be elevated in saturated shale outcrops such as
that traversed by line 2.
Background conductivity
Background V- conduct!vity
250
500
750 1000 0
DISTANCE, IN FEET
250
500
750
Figure C-33. Results of eleetromagnetie-eonduetivity survey at Stauffer
Chemieal—Art Park Site, site 63, Lewiston.
64. UNION CARBIDE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932035
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Union Carbide site,
an active landfill in the city of Niagara Falls, was used to dispose of car-
bonaceous material, wood scraps, and firebrick at an estimated rate of 8.5
million Ib/yr.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable. The geologic
character of the site indicates that a layer of lacustrine clay would impede
vertical migration. The chemical analyses indicate no contamination offsite.
Geologic information.—The owners installed two monitoring wells on the site.
The geologic logs are as follows:
Well no.
1 (north)
Depth (ft)
0 - 12.5
12.5 - 19.0
19.0
Description
Carbonaceous fill.
Till.
Lockport Dolomite
2 (south)
0 - 4.0 Carbonaceous fill,
4.0 - 15.0 Lacustrine clay.
15.0 - 19.8 Till.
19.8 Lockport Dolomite.
353
-------
Hydro!ogic information.—Although no water-level data from the monitoring wells
are available, a regional seasonal water table forms above the lacustrine clay
during periods of high precipitation. Ground-water flow in the unconsolidated
deposits is probably southward toward the river.
Chemical information.—The site owner has sampled both monitoring wells for
selected heavy metals and organic compounds semiannually since 1978 and reports
the results to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation; the
data are available at the Department's regional office in Buffalo, N.Y.
The U.S. Geological Survey collected water samples from both monitoring
wells in August 1982 for organic-compound analysis; results are shown in table
C-15. Only dibutyl phthalate was found in well 2, and the concentration was
below the quantifiable detection limit.
Table C-15.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Union Carbide, site 64,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., August 29, 1982.
[Concentrations are in yg/L; dashes indicate that constituent
or compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but below
the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(20.8) (15.2)
pH 8.3 7.2
Specific conductance (ymho/cm) 1,570 780
Temperature (°C) 11.0 13.5
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Dibutyl phthalate — LI
66. REICHHOLD-VARCUM CHEMICAL DIVISION (Literature review) NYSDEC 932040
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Reichhold-Varcum
Chemical Division site, on Packard Road in the city of Niagara Falls, had a
settling pond for phenolic waste sludges. The pond was evacuated in 1979, and
all materials were transported to a secure landfill.
Recent chemical data suggest a major potential for contaminant migration.
354
-------
Geologic information.—The site consists of a thin unit of silty clay overlying
bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. The depth to bedrock ranges from 6 to 8 ft.
MacMullin Associates, Inc. drilled three test borings. The geologic logs are as
follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 0.2
0.2 - 0.8
0.8 - 2.5
2.5 - 6.0
6.0 - 8.0
8.0
Description
Asphalt surface.
Brown and black loamy sand with
gravel.
Black loamy silt with some gravel.
Reddish-brown, silty clay. Some
vertical desiccation cracks.
Brown clayey-silt.
Refusal—bedrock?
0
0.2
1.0
3.0
4.0
5.2
0.2
1.0
3.0
4.0
5.2
6.1
6.1
0-1.0
1.0 - 2.0
2.0 - 6.3
6.3 - 7.7
7.7 - 9.5
9.5 - 9.9
9.9
Asphalt surface.
Sand and gravel backfill.
Blacktop or fill.
Brown and black clayey sand.
Black gravelly sand.
Brown silty clay.
Refusal—bedrock?
Black and brown gravelly fill.
Black silty clay.
Brown, silty clay with some
desiccation cracks.
Brown gravelly sand.
Gray loamy sand.
Brownish-gray, gravelly loam.
Refusal—bedrock?
Hydrologic information.—The owner installed three monitoring wells; locations
are shown in fig. C-34. Water levels indicate the direction of ground-water
flow to be southward. No hydrologic data on the underlying bedrock are
available.
Chemical information.—The site owner has collected water samples from the moni-
toring wells; results are given in table C-16. Recent sampling of additional
monitoring wells by the property owner indicates that the unconsolidated
material contains phenols in concentrations ranging from 68,000 to 2,700,000
Ug/L.
Source of data.—R. B. MacMullin Associates and Auer, C., 1979, Engineering
report for the elimination and replacement of the Varcum settling lagoon, Varcutr
Chemical Division, Reichhold Chemicals, Inc., Niagara Falls, New York: R. B.
MacMullin Associates, 8 p., 6 drawings, 2 addendums.
355
-------
79° 00'10'
EXPLANATION
O2 Monitoring well
01
-------
Table C-16.—Analyses of ground water from Reichold Varcum Chemical Division,
site 66, Niagara Falls, N.Y., June-July 1982l
[Locations are shown in fig. C-34. Concentrations are in ug/L.]
Date Well No. Phenol
1 3,000
2 50,000
3 4,000
6/11/82 1 25,000
2 210,000
3 15,000
6/23/82 1 60,000
2 166,000
3 30,000
6/30/82 1 30,000
2 126,000
3 15,000
7/8/82 1 20,000
2 162,000
3 20,000
1 Data collected by Reichold Varcum Chemicals, Inc.,
Niagara Falls, N.Y.
73. LA SALLE EXPRESSWAY NYSDEC 93206;
General information and chemical-migration potential.—LaSalle Expressway is in
the city of Niagara Falls. During the construction of the expressway, approxi-
mately 20,000 tons of vulcanized fiber and fiber sheeting, thermosetting
plastics, and trimmings were deposited as fill. These materials are considered
nonhazardous. No geologic, hydrologic, or chemical information are available.
The potential of contaminant migration is indeterminable.
if
357
-------
76. LYNCH PARK (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDFC 932006
General information and chemical-migration potential.—Lynch Park, in the town
of Wheatfield, was used to deposit clean fill from a sewer project and assorted
rubble from an abrasives plant.
Geologic data indicate some potential for contaminant migration offsite,
but the actual potential is indeterminable. One substrate sample contained a
high concentration of copper. Additional sampling and monitoring would be
needed to evaluate the extent of migration.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying lacustrine clay
deposits containing sand stringers. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three
test holes on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in fig. G-35. The
geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 2.9 Brown topsoil.
2.9 - 4.6 Clay, greenish-gray with rust stains,
4.6 - 6.3 Clay, green-gray.
6.3 - 8.0 Sand, fine to coarse, wet.
Clay, pinkish.
SOIL SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
2 0 - 3.4 Topsoil, dark brown, clay, gray.
3.4 - 5.0 Reddish fill.
5.0 - 6.6 Clayey, black, oily, sandier lower
8 inches.
6.6 - 8.1 Clay, tan, tight.
8.1 -11.8 Black organic debris.
11.8 -13.3 Sand, black-gray, fine to very fine,
wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 12 ft.
3 0-2.0 Topsoil.
2.0 - 3.5 Debris, fill material, clay, gray,
tight, dry.
3.5 - 5.0 Black carbonlike material.
5.0 - 6.6 Black organic material.
6.6 - 8.7 Black, oily, sandy material.
8.7 - 10.2 Clay, black, sandy, wet.
10.3 - 11.8 Sand, fine to medium, black, saturated,
SOIL SAMPLE: 11 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered in each test boring at 6
to 11 ft below land surface. That saturated material was mainly fine-grained
sand but did not produce sufficient water to warrant the installation of moni-
toring wells. Ground-water flow is southwestward toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected three soil samples
for copper, iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results are given in
table C-17. Copper was above background levels in sample 2. Only two organic
nonpriority pollutants were detected.
358
-------
78° 56'30"
43°
04'
12"
V
/
/ Disposal area \
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-35. Location of sampling holes at Lynch Park, site 76, tfheatfield.
Table C-17.—Analyses of substrate samples from Lynch Park, site 76, Wheatfield,
N.Y., June 19, 1982.
(Locations shown in fig. C-34. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2 3
(6.5) (6.5) (12.6)
Inorganic constituents
Copper 5,000
Iron 2,300,000
Mercury —
Organic compounds
Nonpriority pollutants
3,5-Dimethyl-2-pyroxoline-l-
carboxamide1 —
4,4,5-Trimethyl-2-hexene1 —
61,000tt
20,000,000
13,000
7,400,000
15,700
512
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau
of Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
QC/MS analysts.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from Niagara Falls area.
Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
359
-------
77. MODERN DISPOSAL SERVICES (USGS reconnaissance) NYSDEC 932025
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Modern Disposal
Services site, in the town of Lewiston in the area of Model City, has been a
landfill for the deposition of nonhazardous wastes such as graphite, silica
dust, wood, paper, metal scrap, brick, cinders, and industrial waste. It has
accepted approximately 150 ton/d.
Additional monitoring would be needed to confirm migration potential. The
potential is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site owner installed two monitoring wells, but no
logs are available. The site probably consists of a thin layer of glacial
ground moraine overlying shale bedrock.
Hydrologic information.—No water levels have been recorded. The direction of
regional ground-water flow is probably northwestward toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a ground-water
sample from both monitoring wells in 1982 for organic-compound analyses; results
are given in table C-18. Three nonpriority pollutants and one possibly
naturally occurring compound were detected.
Table C-18.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Modern Disposal, site 77,
Model City, N.Y., August 19, 1982.
[Concentrations are in ug/L; dashes indicate that constituent or
compound was not found, LT indicates it was found but below the
quantifiable detection limit.)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(40.6) (22.7)
pH 7.6 7.0
Specific conductance (umho/cm) 880 1,175
Temperature (°C) 7.5 11.5
Organic Compounds
Nonpriority pollutants
1,2-Benzisothiazole-3-
carboxylic acid1 — 17
2(3H)-Benzothiazolone1 — 82
Compound potentially of natural origin
Heptacosane1 — LT
Octacosane1 — LT
Hexacosane1 -- LT
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
360
-------
78a. CECOS and NYSDEC 932046
78b. NIAGARA RECYCLING (NEWCO) (Literature review) NYSDEC 932042
General Information and chemical-migration potential.—These two sites, on the
border of the city of Niagara Falls and the town of Niagara, are adjacent to
each other and abut the Necco Park landfill (site 14).
The CECOS site is an active municipal, industrial, and chemical waste-
management facility operating under New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation permits. The site has received metal-finishing solids and sludges,
halogenated materials, filter-press sludges, and contaminated soils.
The NEWCO site is part of CECOS and is an active sanitary landfill facility
that currently receives nontoxic and municipal wastes. In the early years of
operations, some hazardous waste was buried at this site.
The potential for contaminant migration offsite is indeterminable. The
underlying clay and till seem sufficiently impermeable to prevent vertical
migration to the bedrock. The elevated concentrations of heavy metals and
barium on site 78b can probably be attributed to southward migration of leachate
from the Necco Park landfill.
Both sites have had extensive geohydrologic investigations by private
consultants. Borehole, water-level, and chemical data are published in the
references listed herein. Maps showing the surface altitude of bedrock and
of water levels in the underlying aquifers are given in figure C-36.
Geologic information.—The NEWCO site consists of fill overlying lacustrine
silt and very fine sand that are underlain by 10 ft df older lacustrine clay and
silt. Below is a till about 5 ft thick underlain by Lockport Dolomite. The
depth to bedrock ranges from 15 to 18 ft below land surface.
The CECOS site is geologically similar and the clay, till, and bedrock
extend through the area. Bedrock-surface altitude is shown in figure C-36.
Hydrologic information.—The sites have been described as having three aquifers—
a water-table aquifer at the top of the clay zone, a confined zone just above
the bedrock, and an upper bedrock aquifer extending to 15 ft below the bedrock
surface (Wehran Engineering, 1981). Maps of the 1981 potentiometric surface of
each aquifer are shown in figs. C-37, C-38, and C-39.
Ground-water flow in both the unconsolidated and bedrock aquifers is
generally southward except at several ground-water mounds in the unconsolidated
aquifers, which have radial flow patterns and probably affect ground-water move-
ment within the sites. The depression in the northern part of the CECOS site
(fig. C-37) can be attributed to pumping.
Wehran Engineering (1981) ran permeability tests on the underlying clay and
till units. Results are as follows:
361
-------
Sample
no. Soil type Permeability (cm/s)
1 Lacustrine clay 8.6 x 10"9
2 Lacustrine clay 5.5 x 10~9
3 Lacustrine clay 7.1 x 10"9
4 Lacustrine clay 1.1 x 10~8
5 Till 6.6 x 10~8
6 Till 4.4 x 10-8
These low values indicate that vertical movement through these units to bedrock
would be extremely slow.
Chemical information.—Extensive chemical information is available. Water
samples from monitoring wells on the CECOS site show slightly elevated con-
centrations of calcium, sodium, and chloride, that exceed New York State
ground-water standards and USEPA drinking-water criteria.
Water samples also show high concentrations of heavy metals and barium.
Results of chemical analyses are given in the references cited below.
Sources of data
Calspan Corporation, 1977, Soils, geology, and hydrology of the NEWCO-Niagara
Recycling site, Niagara Falls, New York: Calspan Corporation, 96 p.,
10 fig., 6 tables.
Cones toga-Rovers and Associates, 1981, Hydrogeologic investigation, acid
neutralization facility, Pine Avenue/Packard Road, Town of Niagara:
Cones toga-Rovers and Associates, 47 p., 25 figs., 1 table, 8 appendices.
Recra Research, Inc., 1978, Evaluation of ground-water quality in the Lockport
Dolomite bedrock beneath the NEWCO-Niagara Recycling site, Niagara Falls,
New York: Recra Research, Inc., 21 p., 7 attachments, 5 tables.
Wehran Engineering, 1981, Hydrogeologic-Geotechnical Investigations, Proposed
sanitary landfill facilities, NEWCO Waste Systems, Inc., Pine Avenue site,
Niagara Falls, New York: Wehran Engineering, 34 p., 7 figs., 5 pi. ,
1 table, 11 appendices.
1981 , Supplemental hydrogeologic study of the Packard Road/Pine Avenue
site: Wehran Engineering, 14 p., 9 figs., 1 appendix.
Weston, R. F., Environmental Consultants-Designers, 1978, Hydrogeologic
investigation of the NEWCO-Niagara Recyclying site, Niagara Falls, New
York: Weston, R. F., 34 p., 17 figs., 7 tables, 5 appendices.
362
-------
Monitoring well
n rock)
EXPLANATION
Dupont
Property
f_g Monitoring well and
elevation of bedrock
575— Bedrock contour elevation
Approximate area of
soil removal
Base and data from Calspan Corp, 1977
Figure C-36. Altitudes of bedrock and ground-water in aquifer and confining
unit at Ceaos and Niagara Cyoiing (NEWCO), sites 78a and 78b,
Niagara Falls. (Modified from Calspan Corp.,, 1977.)
363
-------
Acid
neutralization
Phase 1 waste-water
_.,_ treatment
b /o
Secure sludge management
facility
Dupont exception
EXPLANATION
Sanitary
landfill
572 •— Piezometric contour, in feet.
Contour interval 2 feet
Secure chemical management facilities
Base and data from Wehran. 1981
Figure C-37. Potentiometrie surface of water-table aquifer at Ceeos and
Niagara Recycling, sites 78a and 78b, Niagara Falls.
-------
Acld/ _ o
neutralization £
Phase 1 waste-water
treatment
Secure sludge management
facility
Dupont exception
EXPLANATION
Piezometric contour, in feet
Contour mterval variable
Sanitary
landfill
Base and data from Wehran, 1981
Figure C-38.
Potentiometric surface of confined aquifer above the bedrock at
Ceeos and Niagara Recycling, sites 78a and 78b, Niagara Falls.
-------
Phase 1 waste-water
treatment
Secure sludge management
facility
Dupont exception
EXPLANATION
Piezometric contour, in feet
Contour interval 5feet
|
Secure chemical management facilities
I
Base and data from Wehran, 1981
Figure C-39.
Potentiometric surface of upper bedrock aquif&r at Cecos and
Niagara Recycling, sites 78a and 78bJ Niagara Falls.
-------
79. POWER AUTHORITY ROAD SITE (Literature review) NYSDEC 952091
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Power Authority Road
Site, north of the Power Authority storage reservoir in the town of Lewiston,
was a landfill for mostly general municipal refuse. No geologic, hydrologic, or
chemical information is available; thus, the potential for contaminant migration
is indeterminable.
81. NIAGARA COUNTY REFUSE DISPOSAL SITE NYSDEC 932026
(USGS field reconnaissance)
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Niagara County Refuse
Disposal site, in the town of Wheatfield, received thousands of tons of heat-
treatment salts, plating-tank sludge, PVC skins and emulsion, thiazole polymer
blends, polyvinyl alcohol, phenolic resins, and brine sludge with mercury during
1968-76. The site has been declared one of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency "superfund" sites.
Although contaminant migration seems possible, preliminary sampling does
not indicate that it has occurred. Most samples taken within the refuse area
had elevated concentrations of organic compounds, but most samples taken along
the perimeter did not. Additional drilling and monitoring would be needed to
assess the effect of this site on the" local or regional ground-water regime.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of lacustrine clay deposits with thin
sand stringers overlying bedrock of Camillus Shale. The U.S. Geological Survey
drilled 10 test holes on the site in 1982; locations are shown in fig. C-40
(p. 373). The geologic logs are on page 368.
Hydrologic information.—A seasonal water table perched upon the clay unit
discharges into the bordering drainage ditches and into the swampy area to the
east (fig. C-40). The saturated sand stringers within the clay unit are easily
dewatered. A saturated zone near the base of the clay unit may represent a
regional water table in which the direction of ground-water flow movement is
probably southward toward the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected two water samples
and 10 soil samples for organic-compound analyses; results are given in table
C-19. Only three priority pollutants were found, all below the quantifiable
detection limit. The samples contained 18 organic nonpriority pollutants and
14 possibly naturally occurring compounds. In September 1980, the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency collected two water samples and five sediment
samples from the ditches; in June 1981, New York State Department of
Environmental Conservtion collected four sediment samples and four water samples
from the ditches; results are given in table C-20.
367
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0-1.6 Topsoil.
1.6 - 2.6 Fill.
2.6 - 11.7 Clay, pink, tight, dry
11.7 - 13.4 Clay, pink, wet
SOIL SAMPLE: 11.7 ft.
2 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 10.9 Clay, tan, tight.
10.9 - 11.4 Clay, tan, wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 10.9 ft.
3 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 9.5 Clay, pink, dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
4 0 0.75 Clay, pink.
0.75 - 3.5 Organic material, black, wet.
3.5 - 4.5 Clay, green.
4.5 - 11.5 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
6A 0 - 3.5 Clay, buff.
3.5 - 16.5 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
7 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 7.0 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
8 0-1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 6.5 Clay, pink, dry.
6.5 - 11.5 Clay, pink, wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 11.5 ft.
9 0-1.5 Road fill.
1.5 - 6.5 Clay, pink, dry.
6.5 - 11.5 Clay, pink, wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 11.5 ft.
10 0-1.5 Clay, sandy, gray.
1.5 - 3.0 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
11 0-1.5 Clay, sandy, gray.
1.5 - 3.0 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 1.5 ft.
368
-------
Table C-19.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Niagara County
Refuse Disposal, site 81, Wheatfield, N.Y., June-August ]9B2.
[Locations shown in fig. C-40. Concentrations are in yg/L and
Pg/kg, respectively; dashes indicate that constituent or compound
was not found, LT indicates it was found but below the quan-
tifiable detection limit. Blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Substrate number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(12.5) (11.2) (1.5) (2.2)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Naphthalene LT
Dibutyl phthalate — LT
Nonpriority pollutants
2,4-dimethyl-4-heptanol1 — LT
2-(l,l-dimethyl-4-
methyl furan1 — LT
Bromocyclohexane1 — 4,350 —
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Groundwater Substrate
5 6 (Duplicate) 6A 7
(12.4) (15.7) _________________
pH 9.2 8.4
Specific conductance
(pmho/cm) 475 620
Temperature (°C) 10.0 10.0
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Diethyl phthalate — LT (LT)
Di-n-butyl phthalate — LT (LT)
Nonpriority pollutants
n—butylbenzene sulfonamide1 — 7.2 (LT)
butyl-2-methyl-propyl
phthalate1 — LT (—)
3,5-Dimethoxy-a-(2-methyl-
propyl)-benzenementhanol1 — 9.2 (—)
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking wate
369
-------
Table C-19.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Niagara County
Refuse Disposal, site 81, Wheatfield, N.Y., June-August 1982 (continued)
Sample number
Ground water
Substrate
(Duplicate) 6A
LT
7
Organic compounds (continued)
Nonpriority pollutants (continued)
Hexadecanoic acid, bis-
(2-ethyhexl)-ester —
Benzaldehyde1 —
3-methoxybenzoic acid,
methylester1 —
1-Heptyne1
[l,l'-Biphenyl]-2-ol
2-(1,l-Dimethylethyl)-4-
methylfuran1 —
l-(4-fluorophenyl)-
ethanone1 —
(Z,Z)-3,4-nimethyl-2,4-
hexadiene —
6-methyl-3,5-heptadien-
2-one1
3-methyl-2-cyclohexen-
1-one —
3,5,5-Trimethyl-2-
cyclohexen-1-one1 —
2-Bromoethylcyclohexane —
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol1 —
l-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethanol1 LT
2-methylnapthalene
1-methylnapthalene1
Butyl-cyclooctane1
2-methyl-propanoic acid,
butyl ester1
2-methoxy-benzoic acid,
butyl ester1
3-methoxy-benzoic acid,
methyl ester1
S-butyl-S-nonanol1
Cyclohexanone1
LT
LT
43
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
LT
Compounds potentially of natural origin
1,7,7-Trimethyl-
bicyclo[2.2. l]-heptan-
2-one1 -- LT
1,2-octanediol1 — LT
(LT)
(LT)
(LT)
(LT)
(--)
(LT)
104,000
55,900
LT
11,800
LT
65,800
16,700
430
LT
Substrate number and depth below land surface (ft)
8 9 10 11
(11.5) (1.5) (1.5)
Organic compounds
370
-------
Table C-20.—Analyses of surface water and bottom samples from drainage ditches
at Niagara County Refuse Disposal, site 81, Wheatfield, N.Y.
[Blanks indicate not analyzed.]
Surface water (pg/L)
Inorganic constituents
Antimony
Arsenic
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Zinc
Maximum
30
52
160t
1.58
100
174
Mean
25
20
32
0.4
20
61
Bottom material (yg/kg)
Maximum
4,000
7,800
16,000
3,800
23,000
61,000
84,000
14,200
45,000
200
400
1,500,000
Mean
2,600
6,300
10,600
800
14,100
34,000
47,000
3,200
16,400
60
240
390,000
37t
8
2
56
31
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene
Chlorobenzene
Chloroform
1,2-Dichloroethane
Trans-1,2-dichloroethylene
1,2-Dichloropropane
Ethylbenzene
Methylene chloride
Tetrachloroethylene
Toluene
1,1,1-Trichloroethane
Trichloroethylene
Vinyl chloride
3-BHC
6-BHC
4,4'-DDE
PCB-1248
PCB-1254
Phenol
Acenaphthene
Acenaphthylene
Anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate 330
Butylbenzyl phthalate 0.8
Chrysene
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
1,3-Dichlorobenzene
7T
2
1
11
6
2
0.4
0.5
5
4
4
12
1
3
31
19
4
0.5
5
0.
1
2
1
2
1
1
15
4
1
0.
2
2
1
34,000t
5,666t
57
0.1
58
90
11
320
180
1,900
17
130
2,000
2,300
2,200
7,605
6,900
330
3,200
39
59
6
10
3
53
37
333
4
14
273
299
282
845
,444
64
356
8
17
371
-------
Table C-20.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Niagara County
Refuse Disposal, site 81, Wheatfield, N.Y., June-August 1982 (continued)
Surface water (yg/L)Bottom material (yg/kg)~
Maximum Mean Maximum Mean
Organic compounds (continued)
Priority pollutants (continued)
1,4-Dichlorobenzene 59 17
Di-n-butyl phthalate 9 2 470 217
Di-n-octyl phthalate 10 2 170 19
Fluoranthene 2,500 319
Fluorene 93 15
Hexachlorobenzene 39 4
Naphthalene 160 34
Phenanthrene 2,000 273
Pyrene 2,000 254
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene 47 6
Benzo(a)anthracene 3,200 356
Indeno(l,2,3-cd)pyrene 820 91
2,4-Dimethyl phenol 990 110
Heptachlor 0.13t 0.04t
Nonpriority pollutants
Trichlorof luoroniethane 1 0.2
Diethyl phthalate 40 7 180 67
372
-------
78° 54'26"
43°
03'
54
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
• 7 Test boring and
substrate sample
0,6 Monitoring well and
water sample
?
—«— Electromagnetic
survey traverse
Base from USQS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-40.
Location of monitoring wells, sampling holes, and
electromagnetic-conductivity survey at Niagara County
Refuse Disposal, site 81, Niagara Falls.
Ej. e c t r omagne t i c survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey ran five electromagnetic
traverses over the site. Locations are shown in fig C-40; results are plotted in
fig. C-41.
Of all the sites investigated by electromagnetic traverses in this study,
this landfill produced some of the most easily interpretable data. This can be
attributed largely to the relatively undisturbed ground on three sides adjacent
to the site. Only to the south of the landfill did cultural interference
(railroad tracks, roads, powerlines) affect the reading.
Line 1.—The line most indicative of interferences was line 1, which ran
partly along a paved road. Conductivity values (fig. C-41) show a steady
increase from below background at the western end to above background between
450 and 700 ft. After 700 ft, the values hover near the upper ranges of
background conductivity.
Line 2.—This site is unusual in having two zones of differing background
conductivity. The western end of each line terminated within a cornfield
showing background conductivity within the range indicated on each graph (fig.
C-42), but the eastern part of lines 1 and 2 were in a wetland, which has a con-
siderably lower background conductivity. This is probably because the wetlands
are underlain by silt and organic material, whereas the cornfield is on clay.
373
-------
The lower conductivity of the wetlands shows up well in line 2 but is masked on
the eastern end of line 1 by the roadbed upon which the traverse was conducted.
Otherwise line 2 shows a classic pattern of low background conductivities on
either side with much higher and more erratic values in between. This is the
type of pattern most often associated with a conductivity traverse beginning and
ending in an uncontaminated zone but crossing a landfill in between. The
erratic pattern among the high conductivity values corresponds to the hetero-
geneity of buried materials.
100
75
50
25
LINE 1
Background conductivity
Wetland
Line 6
100 200
250
500
750 1000
DISTANCE, IN FEET
1250
1500
Figure C-41. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at Niagara
County Refuse Disposal, site 81, Wheatfield, lines 1, 2, and 6.
374
-------
Line 3.--The relatively low values at the western end of line 3 probably
reflect the wetland and drainage ditch, which seem to act much as the wetland
area in line 2. The high, erratic values of line 3 begin at 340 ft and continue
to the dense woods around the 1,100-ft mark. The density of vegetation pre-
vented the collection of additional data points within the wooded area.
Cornfield
270 340 300 320
270250 300350340300260
J_L
Background conductivity
500
750
DISTANCE, IN FEET
1000
1250
1500
Figure C-41 (continued). Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at
Niagara County Refuse Disposal, site 81, tfheatfield, line 3>
Line 4.—This traverse, which ran primarily along a dirt track paralleling
a drainage ditch, shows conductivity values beginning to rise 40 ft before
reaching the landfill area (at 460 ft) but not remaining extremely high along
much of the traverse. This is probably due to the relatively nonconductive
nature of the waste material in this area (indicated on the Niagara County Board
of Health sketch map as a pile of gravel and fill). As before, when the tra-
verse reached the wooded area at 800 ft, the conductivity values dropped to or
below background values.
Line 5.—This line shows a pattern similar to line 2—the background values
on the western end of the line begin to increase 40 ft before the boundaries of
the landfill. This rise may correspond to contaminated ground water emanating
from the site.
375
-------
225
Cornfield •
. Landfill
Woods-
-Cornfield
250 250
— t Landfill-
andfill | |
~I PT T
Woods
Background / conductivity
Background conductivity
250
500
750
1000 0
250
500
750 850
Figure C-41 (continued). Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at
Niagara County Refuse Disposal, site 81, Wheatfield, lines 4 and 5.
Line 6.—This line (see p. 371) was run at right angles to the 420-ft mark
of line 5 in an attempt to delineate the northern boundary of the landfill.
Conductivity values drop precipitously at the 120 ft mark, but no futher data
could be collected owing to the impassability of the terrain in this direction.
82. ADAMS GENERATING PLANT (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSPEC 932079
General information and contaminant-migration potential.—The Adams Generating
Plant, in the city of Niagara Falls, is an inactive generating plant adjacent to
the Niagara River. The City filled a forebay and two penstocks (444 yd3 each)
with incinerator residue and clean stone and rock in the early 1960's.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable,
would be needed to confirm contaminant migration.
Additional work
376
-------
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill and clay overlying bedrock of
Lockport Dolomite. The Geological Survey drilled four test holes on the site in
1982; locations are shown in figure C-42. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
Depth (ft)
0
6.0
- 6.0
- 9.0
Description
Brown topsoil.
Gravel at 6.0 to 6.5
at 6.5 to 9.0 ft.
SAMPLE: 8.0 ft.
ft. "Shot rock
0 - 2.0 Topsoil, could not drill past 2.0 ft,
moved to new spot.
0 - 3.0 Topsoil.
3.0 - 5.0 Dark brown soil at 3.0 ft.
5.0 - 7.0 Clay, sandy, damp, tannish green.
7.0 -11.0 Clay, reddish, sandy, gravel lens.
SAMPLE: 8.0 ft.
0 - 5.0 Topsoil.
5.0 - 7.0 Clay, brown.
7.0 -10.5 Clay, reddish, gravelly.
SAMPLE: 10.0 ft.
0 - 5.0 Top soil with gravel.
5.0 - 8.0 Clay, brown, sandy, with some gravel.
8.0 -10.0 Clay, light gray, pea gravel, damp.
10.0 -10.5 Clay, slate gray, damp.
SAMPLE: 10.0 ft.
79° 02'40"
43°
52"
1 Buffalo Ave
City of
Niagara Falls
waste-water
treatment plant
*3 / . /
v
/^Old forebay
EXPLANATION
Bl Test boring and substrate sample
Not to scale
Figure C-42.
Location of
sampling holes
at Adams
Generating
Plant, site
82, Niagara
Falls.
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
377
-------
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered during the test
drilling. If ground water occurs in the unconsolidated deposits, the direction
of flow would be toward the filled forebay and the Niagara River.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected four soil samples
for chromium, copper, iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results are
given in table C-21. Copper exceeded background levels in sample 4, and three
organic priority pollutants were found in sample 4 but in concentrations below
the quantifiable detection limit. These data may not represent actual con-
ditions at the site because the sampling locations and depths may not be repre-
sentative of the deep, extensive fill in the penstocks and forebay.
Table C-21.—Analyses of substrate samples from Adams Generating Plant,
site 82, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 27, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-48. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.)
First sampling (07-27-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(8.0) (8.0) (10.0) (10.5)
Inorganic constituents
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Mercury
Second sampling (05-28-83)
5,000
10,000
1 ,300,000
5,000
9,000
1,500,000
6,000
9,000
3,800,000
6,000
24,000tt
13,000,000
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A 3A 4 A
(3.0) (7.0) (4.0) (7.0)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Fluoranthene
Phenanthrene
Pyrene
LT
LT
LT
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Niagara Falls area.
378
-------
83. BUFFALO AVENUE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932080
General information and chemical-migration potential. — The Buffalo Avenue site,
in the city of Niagara Falls between Buffalo Avenue and Robert Moses Parkway,
was formerly a wetland on which the City of Niagara Falls buried an unknown
quantity of noncombustibles and incinerator residue during 1930-50. Traprock
fill was used along the southern part of the area during construction of the
parkway.
Hydrogeologic and chemical data indicate a major potential for contaminant
migration because ground water can flow unimpeded through the fill to the river.
Chemical results show elevated concentrations of several organic compounds. A
map showing locations of borings is given in fig. C-43.
Geologic information. — The site consists of several extensive areas of fill
overlying clay, till, and alluvium. The unconsolidated material is approxi-
mately 30 ft thick. The underlying bedrock is Lockport Dolomite. The U.S.
Geological Survey drilled 32 test holes on the site, but 23 could go no deeper
than 1 ft because of the rock fill. Locations of the nine test holes from which
a soil sample was obtained are shown in fig. C-43. The geologic logs are on
page 380.
Hydrologic information. — Water levels indicated a maximum water-table altitude
of 565 ft above NGVD in the two northern wells and 562 ft above NGVD in the two
southern wells. The direction of ground-water flow is southward toward the
Niagara River.
78° 59' 50"
EXPLANATION
jest boring and
substrate sample
Existing monitoring wel I
installed by property
I ^-~.^^
City water j 7* „
treatment L
plant D
Robert Moses P^U...... ^ O
— North Grand Island
Bridge
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-43.
Location of sampling holes at Buffalo Avenue, site 83,
Niagara Falls.
379
-------
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 11.5 Fill material, boulders.
11.5 - 26.5 Clay, dark gray, sandy, wet.
SOIL SAMPLE: 26.5 ft.
2 0-2 Topsoil.
2 Fill.
SOIL SAMPLE: 2 ft.
0 - 2.5 Topsoil.
2.5 Fill.
SOIL SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
0 - 1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 4.0 Clay, brown, boulder fragments.
4.0 - 6.5 Clay, reddish, still some rock
fragments, sandy.
6.5 - 6.7 Same, above 6 in of water in hole.
SOIL SAMPLE: 6.7 ft.
4 Clay, reddish, brown, sandy.
SOIL SAMPLE: 4 ft.
6 0-4 Clay, brown, some black material.
4 - 8 Clay, tan, sandy, damp, gray sandy
clay on bit.
8 - 10 Clay, pink.
10 - 15 Clay, dark brown, black material.
SOIL SAMPLE: 7 - 8 ft.
7 0 - 3.5 Topsoil, organic, black.
3.5 5 Clay, sandy, tan.
5 - 6.5 Clay, sandy, light tan, wet.
6.5 - 9.0 Same, wetter.
9.0 Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 - 6.5
8 0-4 Topsoil and brown, wet, sandy clay.
SOIL SAMPLE: 4.0 ft.
9 0-4 Clay, tan.
4 - 7 Clay, gray.
SOIL SAMPLE: 4.0 ft.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected nine soil samples
for iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results are given in table
C-22. The samples contained 12 organic priority pollutants and 10 organic
nonpriority pollutants. Most organic priority pollutants in sample 1 were in
concentrations above 1,500 ug/kg.
380
-------
Table C-22.—Analyses of substrate samples from Buffalo Avenue, site 83, Niagara
Falls, N.Y.
[Locations sbown in fig. C-43. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates it
was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
First sampling (6-25-R2)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 (Split) 234
(26.5) (2.0) (3.0) (6.7)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
3,800,000 (3,500,000) 1,400,000 4,800,000 9,900,000
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Phenanthrene
Flouranthene
Pyrene
Benzo(a)anthracene
Chrysene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene
Benzo(k)fluoranthene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
5-Methyl-3-hexen-2-one1
2,6-nimethyl-2,5-hepta-
dien—4-one
4,5,7-Trimethylindan1
(E)-4-(2-Butenyl)-l,2-
dimethylbenzene
***
***
***
***
4,200
3,800
3,500
1,600
2,600
750
LT
1,400
(5,300)
(5,700)
(5,900)
(2,400)
(3,600)
(1,900)
(2,200)
(4,000)
LT
3,100 (12,000)
360 (--)
(1,400)
Compounds potentially of natural origin
2,3,8-Trimethyldecane1
2,7—nimethylundecane^
Nonadecane1
7-Hexyldocosane
Heptacosane1
2,4-Dimethyl-4-heptanol1
(3,400)
(2,000)
(2,100)
(1,600)
(1,800)
(1,800)
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
***Samples analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
381
-------
Table C-22.—Analyses of substrate samples from Buffalo Avenue, site 83, Niagara
Falls, N.Y. (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. C-43. Concentrations are in |ig/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates it
was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
567 (Split)
First sampling (6-30-82) (4.0) (6.0) (6.5)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
Organic compound
Priority pollutant
Naphthalene
1,100,000 11,000,000
6,700,000 (2,900,000)
***
***
LT
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
8 (Split) 9
First sampling (6-30-82) (4.0) (4.0)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
Organic compounds
Second sampling (5-28-83)
6,800,000 (1,300,000)
***
***
***
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
2A 3A 4A
(2.0) (2.0) (1.5)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
4,4-DDT
Hexachlorobenzene
Hexachlorobutadiene
Second sampling (5-28-83)
25
LT
LT
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
7A 8A 9A
(5.0) (4.0) (5.0)
Organic compounds
382
-------
84. CAYUGA ISLAND (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 932008
General information and chemical-migration potential.—Cayuga Island is in the
Niagara River at the outlet of Cayuga Creek in the city of Niagara Falls. The
west end was extended with an unknown quantity of concrete ruhhle and other
solid debris. No hazardous material is known to be buried on the site.
This site probably has a major potential for contaminant migration because
the rubble and the direct hydraulic connection with the river provide for rapid
movement of water, and certain contaminants are present in the ground water in
significant concentrations. However, additional monitoring would be needed to
confirm the extent and rate of contaminant migration; therefore, the potential
for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The island consists of rock, concrete, brick, and fill.
The U.S. Geological Survey drilled one test boring in the fill area on the
western point of the island in 1982; the depth to bedrock (Lockport Dolomite)
was 26.5 ft. In 1983, the Geological Survey drilled an additional test boring
2 ft deep further inland and collected a substrate sample.
Hydrologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey installed one monitoring
well on the site in 1982. The screened zone is from 24.5 to 26.5 ft below land
surface. The water level in January 1983 was approximately 565 ft above NGVD—
approximately the height of the river. Ground-water flow is probably toward the
river.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected one water sample
from the monitoring well for cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, zinc, and
organic-compound analyses; results are given in table C-23. Iron, zinc, and
phenol concentrations exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking-water standards.
The samples contained 16 organic priority pollutants and two organic
nonpriority pollutants. Isomers of hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC), which include
Lindane, were found in both the water sample near the shore and in the soil
sample about 100 ft inland.
383
-------
Table C-23.-
-Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Cayuga Island,
site 84, Niagara Falls, N.Y.
[Concentrations are in ug/L and ug/kg; LT indicates it was found
but below the quantifiable detection limit. Blanks indicate not
analyzed.]
First sampling at 6.0 ft (1-12-83) Ground water
Inorganic constituents
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Zinc
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene
Naphthalene
Dimethyl phthalate
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
Phenol
1,3-Dichlorobenzene
2
4
9
29,000t
21
7,000t
6.8
1.6
1.5
7.3
4.0
89t
8.1
1,2-Dichlorobenzene 6.7
Trichloroethene1 LTt
Chlorobenzene1 LT
Y-BHC(Lindane)2 5.9t
S-BHC2 6.6t
? -BHC2 111
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethyl phthalate
N-(4-Chlorophenyl) ace t amide3
l-Chloro-4-ethoxybenzene3
Second sampling at 2.0 ft (5-28-83)
8.5 a-BHC2
2.0
1.4
Substrate
97t
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
a-BHC
6-BHC
6-BHC
LT
LT
LT
Volatile found in GC/MS extraction. Concentration at time of sampling
probably higher than that detected.
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. Concentration reported is semiquantitative and
is based only on an internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and
interpreted by GC/MS analysts. For quantitation, pesticides are analyzed
through electron capture.
o
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concentra-
tion reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an internal standard,
GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
384
-------
85. GRIFFON PARK (IISGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932081
General information and chemical-migration potential.—Griffon Park, in the city
of Niagara Falls at the mouth of the Cayuga Island Little River, was used to
dispose mostly of leaves and forestry materials of unknown quantity. Some
domestic wastes may have been included.
The hydraulic connection with the Little River of Cayuga Island indicates a
major potential for contaminant migration. Chemical analyses of soil samples
indicate contamination; but analyses of a ground-water sample indicate limited
migration. Additional testing would be needed to delineate the extent of con-
taminant migration.
Geologic information.—The site contains approximately 34 ft of unconsolidated
deposits of lacustrine clay and till overlying bedrock that is probably dolo-
mitic. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four test holes on the site in 1982;
their locations are shown in fig. C-44. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 3.0 Topsoil, brown.
3.0 - 5.0 Soil, tan.
5.0 - 6.0 Clay, sandy, tan, damp.
6.0 - 6.5 Same, but less sand and less damp.
6.5 -11.5 Same, getting hard and brown, dry,
SOIL SAMPLE: 5-6 ft.
2 0-1.5 Brown topsoil and fill.
1.5 - 6.5 Same, fill material wet.
WATER SAMPLE: 4.5 - 6.5 ft.
3 0 - 2.0 Demolition debris.
2.0 - 6.5 Dark brown fill material.
6.5 -11.5 Same, pulled up bit; black oil
liquid on bit stem starting 2 ft
below joint.
11.5 -16.5 Black oily material.
SOIL SAMPLE: 15 - 16 ft.
4 0 - 6.5 Brown topsoil and fill.
6.5 - 11.5 Same, turning black at about 8 ft.
11.5 - 16.5 Same, black oily materials on stems.
SOIL SAMPLE: 8 - 11.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—The Geological Survey installed one well on the site;
its location is shown in fig. C-44. The direction of ground-water flow is pro-
bably south-westward toward the Little River. Pumping of the well during
sampling caused little drawdown, indicating that the fill is highly permeable.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected a water sample from the
well and three soil samples for heavy-metals and organic-compound analyses;
results are given in table C-24. Chromium, iron, and lead concentrations
exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking water and the New York State ground-water
385
-------
standards; copper concentrations exceeded those in background soils. The only
organic priority pollutant found was di-n-butyl phthalate, and that was at a
concentration less than the quantifiable detection limit. Three organic
nonpriority pollutants were found.
Table C-24.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Griffon Park,
site 85, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 12, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-44. Concentrations are in yg/L and
Ug/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit, blanks indicate inorganic constituent was not analyzed.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Ground
Substrate water Substrates
1
(6.0)
2
(5.5)
3
(11.0)
3A
(split)
4
(10.0)
pH 6.8
Specific conductance (umho/cm) 2,350
Temperature (°C) 13.0
Inorganic constituents
Aluminum 781
Antimony —
Arsenic —
Barium 1 ,220t
Beryllium —
Cadmium 6
Chromium 59t
Cobalt
Copper 8,000t — 49,000tt (63,000)tt 17,000
Iron ll,000,000t 48,500t 13,000,000 (21,000,000) 83,000,000
Lead 140t
Manganese 730
Mercury — 1.3t 40 (40)
Nickel 62
Selenium —
Silver
Tellurium
Vanadium —
Zinc 3,920
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concentra-
tion is semiquantitative and based only on an internal standard. GC/MS
spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water and New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
tt Exceeds concentrations in samples taken from undisturbed soils in the
Niagara Fall area. Undisturbed soils not analyzed for iron.
***Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study. No compounds
detected.
386
-------
Table C-24.—Analyses of ground-water and substrate samples from Griffon Park,
site 85, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 12, 1982 (continued)
[Locations shown in fig. C-45. Concentrations are in yg/L and
Mg/kg; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit, blanks indicate inorganic constituent was not analyzed.]
Sample number
Substrate
1
ftrefflTrfr rntrmnundfi ***
Ground
water
2
3
***
Substrates
(Split)
***
4
***
Priority pollutant
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Nonpriority pollutants
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)-
ethanol1
4-(l,1-Dimethylethyl)-
phenol1
4-Nitrophenol
LT
220
36
LT
Electromagnetic survey.—The Geological Survey ran an electromagnetic survey of
the site with three lines in November 1982. Their locations are shown in fig.
C-45; the values are plotted in fig. C-45 (p. 388).
Line 1.—This line, along the bank of the Little River (fig. C-45) showed
mostly background conductivity until 400 ft from the northern end of the line.
From there southward, however, a considerable deviation is seen. The values
become most erratic at the southern end of the line, near an adjacent hazardous-
waste landfill (site 40).
100
Hooker dump site —
~UJ
75
Od
25
LINE 1
Background conductivity
_L
250
500 750 1000
DISTANCE, IN FEET
1250
1500
Figure C-44.
Results of eleotromagnetia-aonduativity survey at Griffon Park,
site 85, Niagara Falls, line 1. (Locations of lines are shown
in fig. 45.)
387
-------
£75
CONDUCTIVITY, IN MILLIMHOS PER METER
oo
00
N3
Ul
O1
O
O
O
CJI
o
K)
-co
o
-------
Lines 2 and 3.—These lines show unnatural conductivity values throughout
their length. The large conductivity rise and subsequent drop at the northern
end of line 2 (fig. C-51) can probably be attributed to a large pipe below
Buffalo Avenue. The width of the high-conductance area on line 2, however,
indicates that the material below the gravel road is more conductive than the
surrounding fill. The higher conductivity of material below the gravel road is
also clearly shown in line 3 which parallels Buffalo Avenue.
78° 57'13'
43°
04'
30"
I
EXPLANATION
• 3 Test boring and substrate sample
Monitoring well and water sample
Electromagnetic survey traverse
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-45. Location of monitoring well, sampling holes, and eleatromagnetio-
aonduetivity survey lines at Griffon Park, site 85, Niagara Falls
389
-------
86. HYDRAULIC'CANAL (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 932082
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Hydraulic Canal, in
the city of Niagara Falls, was used to supply water to the Schoellkopf Power
Generating Station before its collapse in the mid-1950's. Thereafter the canal
was filled with domestic refuse, demolition material, and clean fill. It is not
known whether industrial wastes were buried in the canal.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable. No evidence of
contaminant migration to the upper river has been reported, but additional moni-
toring would be needed to confirm this.
Geologic information.—The canal was excavated in the upper part of the Lockport
Dolomite. Two wells were drilled in the canal. The drilling logs described the
material as fill.
Hydrologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey installed two monitoring
wells in 1982 in the fill of the canal—one at each end. The well at the south
end has filled with water that is probably river water; the northern well con-
tained no water.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected a water sample from the
southern monitoring well for copper, iron, and organic-compound analyses;
results are given in table C-25. Two volatile organic priority pollutants were
found, but at concentrations less than the quantifiable detection limit.
Neither copper nor iron exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking water.
Table C-25.—Analyses of ground-water sample from the Hydraulic Canal, site 86,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., January 14, 1983.
[Concentrations are in yg/L; LT indicates it was found but below
the quantifiable detection limit.]
Depth below land surface (ft) 14.5
pH 7.8
Specific conductance (ymho/cra) 288
Temperature (°C) 2.5
Inorganic constituents
Copper 3
Iron 260
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Tetrachloroethane** LT
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane** LT
** Volatile found in GC/MS extractions. Concentration probably higher than that
detected.
390
-------
87. NEW ROAD -SITE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932083
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The New Road site, in
the city of Niagara Falls, was used to dispose of an unknown quantity of non-
combustibles and incinerator residue. The site contains three monitoring wells
(fig. C-46).
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site is assumed to consist of a glacial ground
moraine deposit overlying bedrock of Lockport Dolomite.
Hydrologic information.—The direction of regional ground-water flow is probably
southward.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected a water sample in
1982 from each monitoring well for heavy-metals and organic-compound analyses.
Results are given in table C-26. Iron, lead, and maganese concentrations
exceeded USEPA criteria for drinking water in all three samples; aluminium was
much higher than normal. The only organic priority pollutant found was di-n-
butyl phthalate (less than the quantifiable detection limit). Four organic
nonpriority pollutants were found.
79° 00'18"
43°
06'
42"
EXPLANATION
>2 Test boring and substrate sample
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-46. Location of monitoring wells at New Road, site 87, Niagara Falls
391
-------
Table C-26.—Analyses of ground-water samples from New Road, site 87, Niagara
Falls, N.Y., July 8, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-46. Concentrations are in ug/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2 3
(20.3) (14.3) (15.8)
PH
Specific conductance (umho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
Inorganic Constituents
Aluminum
Antimony
Arsenic
Barium
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Cobalt
Copper
Iron
Lead
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Selenium
Silver
Tellurium
Vanadium
Zinc
6.7
3,200
12.0
2,400
—
—
974
—
7
23
—
—
11,000!
71t
4,940t
—
—
—
—
—
—
269
7.0
3,260
12.0
1,380
—
—
382
—
9
58t
55
83
41,900
66t
1.640T
—
68
—
12
—
—
209
7.0
1,200
12.0
2,220
—
—
454
—
13t
34
84
—
13,000t
128t
4,220t
—
77
—
15
—
—
316
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Di-n-butyl phthalate
Nonpriority pollutants
2,4,6-Trimethyl-l,3,5-
trioxane1
2-Ethyl-1-hexanol1
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)-
ethanol1
1,3-Dimethylbenzene1
26
17
LT
150
26
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concen-
tration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an internal
standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
392
-------
88. 64TH STREET SITE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932085
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The 64th Street site, in
the city of Niagara Falls, was used by the city to dispose of an unknown quan-
tity of garbage and refuse. Industrial waste may also have been buried. The
site consists of a north and a south area.
The potential for contaminant migration at this site is indeterminable.
Preliminary chemical data suggest that migration is not taking place, but addi-
tional sampling would be needed to confirm this.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a clay unit interbedded with sand
stringers overlying bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. In 1982 the U.S. Geological
Survey drilled two test borings in the southern part of the site (fig. C-47),
and two auger holes in the northern part. The geologic logs of the southern
part of the site are on page 394; the auger holes at the northern part of the
site both encountered fill overlying the clay within 2 ft of land surface.
78° 59'29'
78° 59'30'
^
I Site 88s 1
\. »2 Pine Ave 1 •
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-47. Location of sampling holes at 64th Street, site 88, Niagara Falls,
393
-------
Boring no-.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 2.0 Topsoil.
2.0 - 3.5 Clay, sandy, dry.
3.5 - 5.0 Sand, yellow brown, wet,
5.0 - 6.0 Clay, red.
SAMPLE: 5 ft.
0
2.0 -
3.5 -
5.0 -
6.0 -
2.0 Topsoil.
3.5 Sand, fine, dry.
5.0 Clay, sandy, yellow,
6.0 Sand, fine, wet.
6.5 Clay, red.
SAMPLE: 3.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered in both test holes in the
southern part of the site at a depth of approximately 6 ft, but no water was
encountered in the northern test holes.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected soil samples at all
four test holes for iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results from
the south site are given in table C-27, those from the north site are in table
C-28. No mercury was detected, but the samples contained 13 organic priority
pollutants, seven organic nonpriority pollutants, and some unknown hydrocarbons.
Table C-27.—Analyses of substrate samples from south site, 64th Street, site 88,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., August 11, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-47. Concentrations are in yg/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound not found.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(5.0) (3.5)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
Organic compound
Nonpriority pollutant
N,N-Dimethyl-l-
dodecanamine
33,000
***
1,300,000
12,000
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
***Sample analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
No compounds detected.
394
-------
Table C-28.—Analyses of substrate samples from north site, 64th Street, site 88,
Niagara Falls, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. C-47. Concentrations are in ug/kg;
dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found.]
First sampling (07-02-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(3.3) (2.7)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
Second sampling (05-29-83)
4,200,000
2,600,000
Sample number
1A
2A
Inorganic constituent
Molecular sulfur1
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Acenaphthene
Fluoranthene
Naphthalene
N-nitrosodidiphenylamine
Benzo(a)anthracene
Benzo(a)pyrene
Benzo(b)fluoranthene and
benzo(k)fluoranthene
Chrysene
Benzo(ghi)perylene
Fluorene
Phenanthrene
Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene
Pyrene
Nonpriority pollutants
Benzoic acid
Dibenzofuran
2-Methylnaphthalene
Benzaldehyde1
Trans-1,2-dichlorocyclohexane
0-anilinephenyl-thiocyanate1
Unknown hydrocarbons
1
*
* **
*
*
* **
* **
* **
* **
*
* **
* **
* **
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concen-
tration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an internal
standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base neutral-extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
395
-------
89. WHIRLPOOL'SITE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932088
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Whirlpool site, along
the Niagara River north of the Whirlpool Bridge, was used by the City of Niagara
Falls to dispose of an unknown quantity of street sweepings and leaves. Some
domestic refuse may have been deposited at the site before 1940.
The potential of ground-water contaminant migration is indeterminable. The
one soil sample gave no evidence of contamination, but additional data would be
needed to confirm this.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled one test boring on the
site in 1982; the location is shown in figure C-48. The geologic log is as
follows:
Boring no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 3.0 Fill and topsoil
3.0 - 9.0 Clay, tan, sandy fill.
9.0 Dolomite.
SAMPLE: R.75 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered. If ground water is
present, it is probably restricted to fractures in the underlying bedrock.
Chemical information.—The soil sample was analyzed for organic compounds. No
organic compounds were detected.
79° 03'30'
43°
26'
36'
EXPLANATION
1 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-48. Looation of sampling hole at Whirlpool, site 89, Niagara Falls.
396
-------
90. WITHER ROAD SITE (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932027
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Witmer Road site, in
the town of Niagara, contains an unknown quantity of incinerator residue. The
site is now a scrapyard. The potential for contaminant migration is indeter-
minable.
Geologic information.—The Geological Survey drilled two test borings on the
site in 1982; locations are shown in fig. C-49. The geologic logs are as follows
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 6.5
6.5
7.0
7.0
8.7
8.7 - 9.0
0
4.0
4.0
7.5
7.5 - 10.0
Description
Black topsoil, reddish, sand clay
at bottom.
Clay, sandy, reddish.
Split spoon - sand, red, some
yellow particles, ashes.
Split spoon—Sand, red, some
yellow particles, and ash
at 9.0 ft.
SAMPLE: 7.0 ft.
Topsoil.
Limestone (dolomite), light gray,
ash.
Sand, reddish, clayey.
SAMPLE: 6.5 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered; it is probably con-
fined to the fractured bedrock.
79° 02'00
43°
07'
35'
Delaware Ave
_ Burning pits : Junkyard
Kach's Scrapyard office
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-49. Location of sampling holes at Witmer Road, site 90, Niagara Falls,
397
-------
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected two soil samples for
copper, iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses. The results are given in
table C-29. The concentration of copper in sample 2 exceeded concentrations
in samples from undisturbed sites not affected by waste-disposal practices. The
samples contained seven organic priority pollutants, five organic nonpriority
pollutants, and some unknown hydrocarbons.
Table C-29.—Analyses of substrate samples from Witmer Road, site 90,
Niagara Falls, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. C-49. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
First sampling (06-29-82) _ (6.5)
Inorganic constituents
Copper 2,000 28,000
Iron 1,200,000 1,400,000
Mercury — —
Sample number
Second sampling (05-25-83) __JA 2A
Inorganic constituent
Molecular sulfur1 — 450
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Benzene — 8.8
1,1,1-Trichloroethane 22.9**
Trichloroethene LT —
Fluoranthene *
Naphthalene * —
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate * **
Pyrene *
Nonpriority pollutants
Carbon disulfide — 38.4
Dibenzofuran * —
2-Methylnaphthalene *
2-Octadecanol1 — *
Unknown hydrocarbons1 * *
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concen-
tration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an internal
standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts,
* Compounds detected but not quantified; holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base neutral-extractable compounds were extracted.
** Surrogate recoveries were outside the acceptance limits.
398
-------
91. TOWN OF-NIAGARA, LOCKPORT ROAD LANDFILL (Literature review) NYSDEC
-------
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 3 Topsoil, brown.
3 - 5.5 Clay, sandy, brown, tight.
5.5 - 6.5 Clay, reddish, tight.
6.5 - 8.0 Same.
8.0 - 13.0 Same.
13.0 - 15.0 Clay, reddish, wet, with some small
gravel.
SAMPLE: 13 - 15 ft.
0 - 3.5 Topsoil, brown.
3.5 - 7.5 Clay, pinkish brown.
7.5 - 10.0 Same, changing to greenish gray.
10.0 - 15.0 Clay, pinkish, wet.
SAMPLE: 14 - 15 ft.
Hydrologic information. — Ground water was encountered from 10 to 1 3 ft below
land surface. The yield from the saturated zone was too low to warrant the
installation of monitoring wells. The direction of ground-water flow is prob-
ably northward toward Cayuga Creek.
Chemical information. — The U.S. Geological Survey collected two soil samples for
organic-compound analyses; results are given in table C-30. The samples con-
tained three priority pollutants, all phthalates and all below 40 Ug/kg, and two
nonpriority pollutants.
78° 55'50"
43°
06'
27'
Ca yuga
Creek
\\
Niagara Falls International Airport
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-50. Location of sampling holes at Niagara Frontier Transportation
Authority, site 92, Niagara Falls.
400
-------
Table C-30.—Analyses of substrate samples from Niagara Frontier Transportation
Authority, site 92, Wheatfield, N.Y., July 27, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-50. Concentrations are in Mg/kg,
dashes indicate that compound was not found.]
Sample number
1A 2A
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate 35.7
Di-n-octyl phthalate 15.8
Diethyl phthalate LT
Non-priority pollutants
Acetone 38.1
Bis(2-ethylbutyl) phthalate1 570
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
94. NIAGARA RIVER—BELDEN SITE (USGS field reconnaissance) NYSDEC 93205
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Belden site, on the
Niagara River in the town of Wheatfield, was used by the Goodyear Company for
the deposition of fill, rubble, and thiazole polymer blends in unknown quan-
tities. Leachate has been noted leaving this site in surface water, but the
chemical composition is unknown.
Preliminary data indicate some potential for contaminant migration, but th
analyses of ground-water samples indicate low concentrations of contaminants.
Additional analyses would be needed to define the extent of ground-water con-
tamination and the potential for offsite migration. The potential for con-
taminant migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled two test holes on the
site and installed two monitoring wells in 1982; the locations are shown it
figure C-51. The geologic logs are on page 402.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered in both test holes. The
direction of ground-water flow is probably southwestward toward the river.
Chemical information.—A water sample was collected from each of the monitoring
wells and analyzed for organic compounds; results are given in table C-31. The
samples contained two priority pollutants, both phthalates, at concentrations
below the quantifiable detection limit, and four nonpriority pollutants as well
as two possibly naturally occurring organic compounds.
401
-------
Boring no.
1
Depth (ft)
0 - 2.6
2.6 - 3.0
Description
Black, wet, organic material.
Clay, water running into hole from
black material above.
WATER SAMPLE: 2 - 3.7 ft.
0 - 3.7 Topsoil.
3.7 - 4.0 Clay, very sandy, buff-colored
particles.
4.0 - 5.0 Clay, some sand, dark, gray.
5.0 - 5.7 Sand, medium, grayish, wet.
WATER SAMPLES: 2 - 4 ft.
78° 56'42"
EXPLANATION
O1 Monitoring well and water sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-51. Location of monitoring wells at Niagara River-Belden site,
site 94, Wheatfield.
402
-------
Table C-31.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Niagara River—Belden site,
site 94, Wheatfield, N.Y., June 26, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-51. Concentrations are in ug/L; dashes
indicate that compound was not found, LT indicates it was found
but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(3.7) (4.2)
pH 7.4 7.0
Specific conductance (umho/cm) 2,080 1,200
Temperature (°C) 16.5 13.5
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Dimethyl phthalate LT
Nonpriority pollutants
Diethyl phthalate LT LT
1,8-Naphthalene dimethano1 5.8
N-(1,l-Dimethylethyl)-4-
methylbenzamide1 18.6 12
1,1'-oxybisbutane1 — 34
2-hydroxy-propanoic acid,
butylester1 — 18
Compounds potentially of natural origin
3-methylbutanoic acid 1 — LT
1,7,7-Trimethylbibyclo
[2.2.1]heptan-2-one(camphor)1 LT LT
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
403
-------
95. OLD CREEK BED (DiBacco no. 1) SITE
(USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932056-a
General information and chemical-migration potential.—This site, in the town of
Niagara, has been used to dispose of fill containing rocks, broken concrete, and
inert wastes from an abrasives-plant warehouse that was destroyed by fire in
1977. A chemical firm indicated that hexachlorocyclopentadiene catalyst may be
buried there also. A sketch of the site is shown in figure C-52.
Although contaminant migration into Cayuga Creek seems possible because the
fill material is in contact with the creek, the preliminary chemical data
suggest that the potential for contaminant migration is limited. Future moni-
toring would be necessary to confirm the migration potential. (At present it is
indeterminable.)
Geologic information.—The site consists of a lacustrine clay deposit overlying
bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. No test holes could be drilled on the site
because the fill was too rocky.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was obtained, but topographic relief
suggests that ground water flows southeastward toward Cayuga Creek.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected four water samples from
Cayuga Creek, next to the site, in 1982; locations are shown in figure C-52.
Each sample was analyzed for copper, iron, lead, mercury, and organic compounds;
results are given in table C-32. Lead exceeded the IISEPA criterion for drinking
water and the New York State ground-water standard. Sample 2 contained one
organic priority pollutant: four organic nonpriority pollutants also were found.
78° 57'30"
43°
06'
00'
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Surface-water sample
Electromagnetic survey traverse
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-52. Location of surface-water samples and electromagnetic-
conductivity survey at Old Creek Bed (Dibacao no. 1),
site 95 f Niagara.
404
-------
Table C-32.—Analyses of surface-water samples from Old Creek Bed (Dibacco),
site 95, Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 9, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-52. Concentrations are in ug/L; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
pH
Specific conductance (ymho/cm)
Temperature (°C)
1
7.7
1,670
22.0
Sample
2
7.8
1,480
23.0
number
3
7.8
1,670
23.0
4
7.8
1,630
23.0
Inorganic Constituents
Aluminum260 281 276 311
Antimony — —
Arsenic — —
Barium 648 234 772 811
Beryllium
Cadmium 5566
Chromium 20 22 20 21
Cobalt
Copper
Iron 463t 324t 312t 398t
Lead 14 10 — 21
Manganese 69 63 66 73
Mercury — —
Nickel
Selenium — —
Silver
Tellurium
Vanadium — —
Zinc 76 64 64 65
Organic compounds
Priority pollutant
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate — 94
Nonpriority pollutants
Diphenylamine LT LT
Heptanal1 — 8.8
2,3-Dichloro-2-methyl-
butane — 7.5 — —
1,3-Dimethylbenzene1 — 20 22 ZL_
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water
405
-------
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey conducted an electromagnetic
survey with three survey lines on the site. Locations are shown in figure C-52;
the values are plotted in fig. C-53.
Line 1.—The high conductivity value at the northern end of line 1 is prob-
ably related to the proximity of Roberts and Disney Roads. The next 200 ft
were run in the open field next to Roberts Road. Though fairly uniform, the
relatively high conductivities in this area indicate artificial fill. This
conclusion is supported by map 28 of the New York State Museum and Science
Service (Muller, 1977), which indicates this site to be in the same deposit as
the Niagara County Refuse Disposal site (site 81). If this is correct,
background conductivity values should be considerably lower than those in the
vicinity of the open field near Roberts Road.
Line 2.—Beyond the open field crossed by lines 1 and 2 is a mound of fill.
Conductivity values along both lines were considerably higher near the fill than
elsewhere. Line 2 showed the more dramatic fluctuations, which suggests buried
metallic refuse within the mounds. All readings taken along the present bank of
Cayuga Creek were between 15 and 20 mmho/m, which is probably the local
background range.
Line 3.—Line 3 was run mostly over visible refuse and showed the irregular
elevated values that might be expected from undifferentiated waste material.
Source of data.—Muller, E. H., 1977, Ouaternary geology of New York, Niagara
Sheet: New York State Museum and Science Service, Map and Chart Series, no. 28,
1 sheet.
200
Background conductivity
100 200
DISTANCE, IN FEET
300
Figure C-53. Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at Old Creek
Bed (Dibaaao no. 1), site 95, Niagara, line 1.
406
-------
320 316 420
225
200 -
175 -
LINE 2
Background conductivity
100
200
300
Background conductivity
250 500
DISTANCE, IN FEET
750
Figure C-53 (continued). Results of electromagnetic-conductivity survey at
Old Creek. Bed (Dibaeeo no. 1), site 55, Niagara, lines 2 and 3.
407
-------
96. ROBERT MOSES PARKWAY (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932067
General information and chemical-migration potential.—During the construction
of the parkway, 200 to 300 drums of unknown material from a chemical firm were
allegedly deposited in trenches, but their exact location is unknown.
Large quantities of fill from the Niagara Power Project excavations were
deposited along several hundred feet of the Niagara river bed adjacent to the
Parkway. The fill is more than 20 ft thick in several locations.
The high permeability of the fill suggests some potential for contaminant
migration to the Niagara River. Contaminants from the industrial area bordering
the northern end of the fill could migrate into the area and to the river.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable from the
available data. The general direction of ground-water flow in the uncon-
solidated material is toward the Niagara River.
100. SILBERGELD JUNK YARD (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932093
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Silbergeld Junk Yard,
in the city of Niagara Falls, received scrap metal from chemical and electro-
chemical firms from the mid-1930's through the mid-19501s. The total quanity of
material deposited is unknown, and the potential for contaminant migration is
indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a thin layer of unconsolidated depos-
its overlying Lockport Dolomite. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled two test
holes on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure C-54. The geologic
logs are as follows:
Boring no.
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 3.0 Topsoil.
3.0 - 4.0 Black organic material.
4.0 -6.5 Clay, light at top to darker pink.
6.5 - 8.5 Clay, pink, dry, hit rock at 8.5 ft,
SOIL SAMPLE: 8.5 ft.
2 0-2.5 Topsoil, black, organic.
2.6 - 6.5 Clay, sandy, ocher in color
6.5 -10.0 Same, hit gravel at 9.0 ft. bedrock
at 10.0 ft.
SOIL SAMPLE: 9 ft.
Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered during the drilling,
but it probably occurs in the bedrock fractures.
Chemical information.—The Geological Survey collected two soil samples for
iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results are given in table C-33.
No mercury or organic compounds were detected.
408
-------
Table C-33.—Analyses of substrate samples from Silbergeld Junk Yard, site 100,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 8, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-54. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
First sampling (07-08-82)
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
(8.5)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
Second sampling (05-27-83)
2,400,000
1,400,000
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A
3.0 2.5
Inorganic constituent
Molecular sulfur1
Organic compounds
2,000
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available. Concen-
tration reported is semiquantitative and based only on an internal
standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by GC/MS analysts,
79° 02'40"
EXPLANATION
2 Test boring and substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-54. Location of sampling holes at Silbergeld Junk Yard, site 100,
Niagara Falls.
409
-------
237. RODEWAY INN (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932086
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Rodeway Inn site, on
the Niagara River in the city of Niagara Falls, was used to dispose of an
unknown quantity of broken concrete from the Olin Corporation and incinerator
residue.
The geology and proximity to the river indicate a limited potential for
contaminant migration, but the chemical data are insufficient to evaluate
whether ground-water contamination has occurred. Additional data would be
needed to evaluate the water quality and the likelihood of contaminant migra-
tion. The potential is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The Geological survey drilled two test borings on the site
in 1982; locations are shown in figure C-55. The geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 5.0 Topsoil, black, some clay.
5 - 6.5 Clay, sandy, with gravel, tan.
6.5 - 7.5 Same, hit slag or bedrock.
SOIL SAMPLE: 7.5 ft.
43°
04'
22"
0 - 3.5
3.5 - 5.0
78° 59'05"
Tar surface and topsoil.
Material looks like incinerator ash, wet
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
Perry Ave
EXPLANATION
»2 Test boring and substrate sample
•1
Suspected
disposal
area
Not to scale
Niagara River
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-55. Location of sampling holes at Rodeway Innt site 237,
Niagara Falls.
410
-------
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered in the test hole closest
to the river (no. 2), but water was insufficient for installation of monitoring
well. The direction of ground-water flow is probably southward toward the
river.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected two soil samples for
iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results are given in table C-34.
Sample 2A contained five organic priority pollutants, but at concentrations
less than the quantifiable detection limit. Two nonpriority pollutants and some
unidentified hydrocarbons also were found.
Table C-34.—Analyses of substrate samples from Rodeway Inn, site 237, Niagara
Falls, N.Y.
[Locations shown in fig. C-55. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1 2
First sampling (06-29-82) (3.0) (2.3)
Inorganic constituents
Iron 5,000,000 30,000,000
Mercury 10 50
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1A 2A
Second sampling (05-29-83) (5.0) (2.5)
Inorganic constituent
Molecular sulfur(S8)1 — 10,000
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Fluoranthene — LT
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate — LT
Benzo(a)anthracene — LT
Chrysene — LT
Phenanthrene — LT
Nonpriority pollutants
Carbon disulfide LT
Terpene1 — 2,000
Hydrocarbons1 — 17,000
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
411
-------
238. SAINT MARY'S SCHOOL (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932087
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The St. Mary's School
site, in the city of Niagara Falls, received an unknown quantity of fly ash from
Occidental Chemical Company during the 1950's. The potential for contaminant
migration is indeterminable.
Geologic information.—The U.S. Geological Survey drilled three test borings on
the site in 1982; the locations are shown in fig. C-56. The geologic logs are
on page 413.
Hydrologic information.—Ground water was encountered in some of the sand units.
The logs indicated a series of perched water-bearing units that may be caused by
seasonal increases in precipitation.
78° 59'2V
43°
05'
00'
Not to scale
9
-------
Boring no« Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 2.5 Topsoil.
2.5 - 3.0 Sand, fine, yellow, damp,
3.0 - 5.5 Clay, yellow.
5.5 - 6.0 Sand, yellow, damp.
6.0 - 6.5 Clay, red.
SOIL SAMPLE: 2.5 ft.
0 - 1.5 Topsoil.
1.5 - 2.5 Same.
2.5 - 4.5 Sand, yellow, fine, dry.
A.5 - 5.0 Clay, sandy, wet.
5.0 - 6.0 Sand, yellow, fine, wet.
6.0 - 6.5 Clay, red, dry.
SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
3 0-3 Topsoil and sand.
3 - 4.5 Clay, yellow
4.5 - 6.0 Sand, yellow, wet.
6.0 - 6.5 SOIL SAMPLE: 5 ft.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected three soil samples
for iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results are given in table
C-35. The samples contained four organic priority pollutants, two organic
nonpriority pollutants, and some unknown hydrocarbons.
Table C-35. — Analyses of substrate samples from St. Mary's School, site 238,
Niagara Falls, N.Y.
(Locations shown in fig. C-56. Concentrations are in pg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
First sampling (08-12-82)
Inorganic constituents
Iron
Mercury
Sample number
1
(2.5)
1,400,000 1
and depth
2
(5.0)
,700,000
below land surface (ft)
(Split)
(130,000)
(--)
3
(5.0)
1,700,000
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
* Compounds detected but not quantified — Holding time exceeded before GC/MS
acid- and base-neutral extractable compounds were extracted.
413
-------
Table C-35.—Analyses of substrate samples from St. Mary's School, site 238,
Niagara Falls, N.Y. (continued)
(Locations shown in fig. C-56. Concentrations are in ug/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
(samples taken from first sand layer)
1A 2A 3A
Second sampling (05-29-83) (2.5) (2.5) (2.5)
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Heptachlor LT LT
Heptachlor epoxide — LT —
Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate * *
Di-n-octyl phthlate * *
Nonpriority pollutants
trans-1,2-Dichloro-cyclohexane1 — * —
cis-1,3-Dichloro-cyclohexane1 — — *
Unknown hydrocarbons1 * —- —
242. CHARLES GIBSON SITE (Literature review) NYSDEC 932063
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Charles Gibson site,
in the eastern part of the town of Niagara, on Cayuga Creek, was used as a
disposal site during 1955-57 for 403 drums (about 90 tons) of hexachlorobenzene
and 101 truckloads (about 1,000 tons) hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC) cake.
A remedial investigation program has been developed by the site owner in
response to the NYSDEC Division of Environmental Enforcement to assess the
extent of past disposal practices and impact on the ground water and surface
water in the area. The potential for contaminant migration is major because of
the proximity to the creek and the nature of the buried material.
Geologic information.—No data are available at present. The site probably con-
sists of a lacustrine clay deposit overlying bedrock of Lockport Dolomite.
Hydrologic information.—No data are available at present. Ground water would
probably occur at or near stream stage. The direction of ground-water flow is
probably eastward toward the stream.
Chemical information.—Sampling by the NYSDEC in 1982 indicated that the waste
material contains BHC's in concentrations exceeding 90,000,000 Ug/kg.
414
-------
244. 93RD STREET SCHOOL (Literature review) NYSDEC 932078
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The 93rd Street School
is in the city of Niagara Falls. The school property was used to dispose of
3,000 yd3 of fly ash and hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC) cake that had been removed
from Love Canal in 1954. Soil samples taken on the property were found to be
contaminated with trichlorobenzene and tetrachlorobenzene. The U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency included the investigation of this site in their
1982 Love Canal Monitoring Report.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable. Results of the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency investigation has been used to assess the
effect of the buried material on the ground water.
Geologic information.—This site and adjacent areas consist of fill and glacial
unconsolidated deposits of lacustrine clays and till underlain by Lockport
Dolomite and Rochester Shale. A general stratigraphic column for a site in the
vicinity is given on page 314 (Love Canal, site 38).
Hydrologic information.—Ground-water flow through unconsolidated deposits is
probably northward toward Bergholtz and Black Creeks, westward to Cayuga Creek,
and southward to Little Niagara and Niagara Rivers. Ground-water gradients in
the Lockport Dolomite indicate that the direction of flow is south and southwest
toward the Niagara River.
Velocities for horizontal flow are 0.001 in/yr in the clay and 1 to 60
ft/yr in the other overburden. Permeability ranges from 10~^ cm/s to
>10~5 cm/s. Transmissivity of the Lockport Dolomite has been calculated to be
^.015 ft2/s, and the storage coefficient to be 1.49 x 10~^ (U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, 1982). Additional information on ground-water flow is given
in the description of Love Canal, site 38 (p. 313).
Chemical information.—Chemical data from USEPA include ground water, surface
water, sediment, waste, and surface soil. Ground water in unconsolidated depos-
its and in bedrock was found to contain traces of benzene and toluene (less
than 25 Ug/L). Storm sewers on 93rd Street adjacent to the school contained
Lindane in concentrations ranging from 15 to 97 Pg/L. Soil samples from the
upper 6 inches of the school grounds contained cadmium ranging from 1 ,200 to
1,700 Ug/kg. Traces of benzene (not exceeding 25 pg/kg) were also found in soil
at the school. Low-level Lindane contamination was detected in the fly-ash
fill; the fly ash was also found to contain 0.380 yg/kg of dioxin. Lindane con-
tamination was also found on the school ball diamond. Sediment in a storm sewer
discharging from the school area into Bergholtz Creek was found to contain 29
yg/kg of dioxin.
Source of data.—U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1982, Environmental
monitoring at Love Canal: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2 vols.
415
-------
245. 97TH STREET METHODIST CHURCH (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932084
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The 97th Street Methodist
Church property, in the city of Niagara Falls, was used for disposal of 23 tons
of broken concrete cells from Olin Corporation in 1958.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable. The extensive
clay unit underlying the site may inhibit downward migration; although the che-
mical analyses indicate high concentrations of some organic priority pollutants,
they do not indicate offsite migration.
Geologic information.—The site consists of a lacustrine clay about 26 ft thick
overlying bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled four
test borings on the site in 1982; the locations are shown in figure C-57. The
geologic logs are on page 418.
Hydrologic information.—During the test drilling, the clay became moist at 11.5
ft below land surface and remained so to the top of bedrock. The general direc-
tion of ground-water flow in the unconsolidated deposit is probably southward.
78° 07'05"
43°
05'
07'
Residential (now evacuated)
Lawn
Parking lot
Wesley United Methodist Church
CO
^l
(-»
3"
Colvm
Blvd
Not to scale
EXPLANATION
Test boring and
substrate sample
Base from USGS field sketch, 1982
Figure C-57. Location of monitoring wells and sampling holes at 97th St.
Methodist Chureh, site 245, Niagara Falls.
416
-------
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected four soil samples
and one water sample for iron, mercury, and organic-compound analyses; results
are shown in table C-36. No mercury was detected. The ground-water sample con-
tained three organic priority pollutants, two of which were in concentrations
ahove 250,000 yg/L.
Table C-36.—Analyses of substrate and ground-water samples from 97th Street
Methodist Church, site 245, Niagara Falls, N.Y., August 27, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-57. Concentrations are in ug/kg and
Ug/L; dashes indicate that constituent or compound was not found,
LT indicates it was found but below the quantifiable detection
limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
Ground
Substrates water
1 2 3 4 4A
(16.5) (11.5) (8.0) (26.0) (20.0)
pH
SpeciJ
7.0
fie conductance (umho/cm) 2,730
Inorganic constituents
Iron 6,500,000 5,200,000 4,300,000 2,400,000
Mercury — — — —
Organic compounds
Priority pollutants
Diethyl phthalate — — — — LT
Butylbenzyl phthalate — — — — 315,000
Bis(2-ethylhexyl)
phthalate — — — — 252,000
Possible artifact
4-Methyl-3-penten-2-one1 — 880
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
t Exceeds USEPA criterion for maximum permissible concentration in drinking
water or New York State standard for maximum concentration in ground water.
417
-------
Boring no,
1
Depth (ft)
0
1.5
6.5
11.5
0
1.5
6.5
0
1.5
6.5
11.5
16.5
21.5
26
- 1.5
- 6.5
-11.5
-16.5
0 - 1.5
1.5 - 6.5
6.5 -11.5
1.5
6.5
8.0
- 1.5
- 6.5
-11.5
-16.5
-21.5
-26
Description
Brown topsoil
Clay, pink.
Clay, pink.
Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE: 16.5 ft.
Topsoil.
Clay, pink.
Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE:
Topsoil.
Clay, pink.
Clay, pink.
SOIL SAMPLE:
11.5 ft.
8 ft.
Topsoil.
Clay, pink.
Clay, pink.
Clay, pink, some gravel.
Clay, pink.
Clay, pink.
Bedrock.
WATER SAMPLE: 26 ft.
247. OLIN DEEP WELL (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932037
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Olin well, at the
Olin Plant site on Buffalo Avenue in Niagara Falls, is 125 ft deep and was used
to dispose of approximately 130,000 tons of end liquor (60 to 65 percent water,
30 percent sulfuric acid, 5 to 10 percent sodium chlorate). The well was
deactivated in 1977. No geologic, hydrologic or chemical information is
available. The potential for contamination migration is indeterminable.
251. SOLVENT CHEMICAL (Literature review)
NYSDEC 932096
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Solvent Chemical
site, in the city of Niagara Falls (fig. C-58), was used for the production of
chlorinated benzenes (dichloro-, trichloro-, and tetrachlorobenzene) during
1974-78. Earlier occupancy of the site is reported to have been by area
chemical firms.
This site has a major potential for contaminant migration. Contaminants
are moving offsite via sewerline infiltration and may also be migrating in the
overburden and penetrating into the bedrock.
418
-------
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill, recent alluvium including
silt, silty clay, fine to medium sand, and discontinuous till and clay with a
total depth varying from 5 to 10 ft. This material overlies the Lockport
Dolomite bedrock.
The site owner dug several test pits in 1980; descriptions are on page 420,
•
1
0)
O
< 1—
o
ro
co
.TP13 '
D • TP3
• TP5
i «TP4
MH1
C
*
\
\ •
MH50 W3Q «
W3AD\
"• OMH2
• TP14
• TP6
i
OMH3
TPI 2
.TP11 »TP8
•
W4DDW4A ^Ss^V.
QW6 «TP7 "^^
\
u
• \\
\]
\
\
^
Fence line OMH4 "Nv
EXPLANATION
• TP5 Test pit
QW2 Overburden monitoring well
OMH2 Manhole
Not to scale 1 — ^^— ^—
43°
04'
52'
Figure C-58. Location of monitoring wells at Solvent Chemical,
site 251, Niagara Falls.
419
-------
Test pit no. Depth (ft) Description
1 0 - 1.5 Fill, black cinders and loose rubble.
1.5 - 6.5 Recent alluvium; mottled light brown and
orange brown silt; some fine sand.
6.5-8 Lacustrine clay; red brown laminated and
silty; gray-filled joints.
2 0-5 Fill; black cinders; loose debris mixed with
silty brown soil.
5 - 6 Recent alluvium; dark gray organic silt.
6 - 9 Till; red-brown clayey silt; coarse to fine
gravel; occasional cobbles.
3 0-8 Fill; loose debris, brick fragments.
8 -9 Recent alluvium; dark gray organic sandy silt.
4 0-1 Black cinder fill.
1 - 8 Recent alluvium; mottled light-brown and
orange-brown silt; some fine sand.
8 - 9 Lacustrine clay; red-brown silty clay.
5 0 4.5 Black cinders and debris.
4.5-6 Recent alluvium; mottled gray and brown
clayey silt; little fine sand.
6 - 8.5 Glacial till; red brown clayey silt; fine to
coarse sand; little fine to medium gravel.
6 0 - 5.5 Black cinderfill.
5.5 - 6.5 Recent alluvium; dark gray organic silt;
grading to gray clayey silt; little
medium to fine sand.
6.5 - 7.5 Glacial till; red-brown clayey till; sand
and some gravel.
7 0 4.2 Fill; rubble, cinders, wood
4.2 - 8.0 Recent alluvium; dark gray organic silt
grading to gray brown clayey silt with
little sand.
8 0-4 Rubble fill.
4 - 6.5 Recent alluvium; black organic silt grading
to gray brown silt with fine sand.
11 0-5 Fill; cinders, debris, dark gray silty soils.
5 - 6 Recent alluvium; dark-gray brown organic silt,
12 0-5 Fill; cinders and rubble.
5 - 6.5 Recent alluvium; dark gray organic clayey
silt; fine sand.
13 0 - 4.5 Fill; debris and dark brown soils.
4.5 - 5.6 Recent alluvium; dark gray organic silt
grading to mottled orange brown fine
sandy silt.
14 0-5 Fill; dark brown silty soil and debris.
5 - 8 Recent alluvium; dark brown organic silt
grading to dark gray sandy silt.
420
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S3
Table C-37.—Analyses of ground-water samples from Solvent Chemical, site 151, Niagara Falls, N.Y.,
July-August 1980.
[Well locations shown in fig. C-59. Concentrations are in pg/L.]
Constituent or
characteristic
PH
Specific conductance
Well number
W-l
12.4
8,400
W-2
7.35
1,500
W-2A
7.06
5,000
W-3
7.51
2,490
W-3A
7.54
2,230
W-4
6.80
5,500
W-4A
6.88
2,740
W-5
7.86
7,400
W-6
6.64
8,000
Mmho/cm
Total organic carbon
Ammonia, as nitrogen
Chloride
Zinc, total
ortho-Dichlorobenzene
meta-Dichlorobenzene
para-Dichlorobenzene
1,2,3,-Trichlorobenzene 5
1,2,4,-Trichlorobenzene 19
1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene <5
Monochlorobenzene 4,000
Benzene 4,800
53,000 28,000 38,000 35,000 850,000 38,000
2,000 5,000 15,000 4,000 13,000 240,000
210,000 1,200,000 230,000 380,000 1,800,000 480,000 1,900,000 2,600,000
51,000
3,600
64,000
6.3
87
18
65
5
19
<5
36,000
8.900
210,000
42
79
11
40
<2
14
<10
29,000
2,000
1,200,0
0.040
1,500
290
410
150
900
<80
6.7 0.047
2,700 2,900
2,000 860
5,800 2,700
52 180
150 570
<10 <90
3,900 12,000 110,000 22,000
4,500 3,300 58,000 5,700
22
4.5
20
230
260,000 16,000 31,000 1,400
27,000 2,700 9,600 420
87,000 7,400 74,000 650
10,000 410 1,500 69
67,000 1,700 8,000 690
<10 <80 <800 <40
4,100 54,000 110,000 1,200
1,600 41,000 170,00 3,600
-------
Hydrologic information.—The site surface is quite level, ranging from 567 ft to
569 ft above sea level. Ground-water altitude during July through September
1980 ranged from 553 ft to 569 ft. The direction of ground-water movement may
be northward toward Buffalo Avenue.
Chemical information.—The owner installed nine monitoring wells in the uncon-
solidated deposits at the site in July and August 1980. Samples from these
wells indicate the highly elevated levels of ammonia, zinc, and organic com-
pounds (table C-37). The analysis of water from the wells tapping overburden
indicate considerable variation within the site.
255. STAUFFER CHEMICAL PLANT - POWER AUTHORITY OF THE STATE
OF NEW YORK (USGS field reconnaissance)
NYSDEC 932053
General information and chemical-migration potential.—The Stauffer Chemical
Plant (PASNY) site, on the north side of the PASNY forebay in the town of
Lewiston, was used to dispose unknown quantities of asbestos, graphite, cinders,
concrete cell parts, reactor linings, scrap sulfur and metal, silicon, zir-
conium, and titanium oxides.
The potential for contaminant migration is indeterminable. Contaminants
may migrate during the periods of excessive precipitation, but additional moni-
toring would be required to document the migration. Bechtel, Inc. is conducting
an investigation of the former plant site and disposal sites.
Geologic information.—The site consists of fill overlying a thin unit of clay
that overlies bedrock of Lockport Dolomite. The U.S. Geological Survey drilled
four test holes on the site in 1982; locations are shown in fig. C-59. The
geologic logs are as follows:
Boring no.
Depth (ft) Description
0 - 3 Fill, topsoil, dark brown.
3 - 4.5 Fill, light gray.
4.5 - 8.0 Clay, red, damp.
8.0 Bedrock.
SAMPLE: 5 ft.
0 - 4.0 Topsoil.
4.0 - 6.5 Clay, yellow, brown, dry.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
0 - 3.0 Topsoil.
3.0 - 7.5 Clay, brown-red.
7.5 Bedrock.
SAMPLE: 4 ft.
0 - 2 Black fill material.
2 - 6.5 Clay.
SAMPLE: 2 ft.
422
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Hydrologic information.—No ground water was encountered during the test
drilling.
Chemical information.—The U.S. Geological Survey collected four soil samples
for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, mercury, nickel, zinc, and
organic-compound analyses; results are shown in table C-38. None of the heavy
metals exceeded concentrations found in undisturbed soils not affected by waste-
disposal practices. One organic nonpriority pollutant was found.
Electromagnetic survey.—The U.S. Geological Survey conducted an electromagnetic
survey with three traverses over the site. The locations are shown in fig.
C-59; the data are plotted in figure C-60.
Both lines 1 and 2 parallel the forebay area near a former chemical plant,
and both indicate high bedrock at this site.
Line 1, along a road approximately 50 ft from the forebay cliff, shows a
gradual westward decline in conductivity that is probably due to the rise in
bedrock in this direction.
Line 2, parallel to line 1 but within 20 ft of the forebay cliff, shows the
effects of bedrock (here within 2 ft of the surface) even more clearly. Neither
line gives any indication of artificially elevated conductivity.
79° 01'45'
43"
08'
38'
c
JO
a
CD
r
Stauffer Chemical
Plant
(Abandoned)
Substation
Forebay
EXPLANATION
Test boring and substrate sample
Electromagnetic survey traverse
Not to scale
Base from USGS field sketch. 1982
Figure C-59. Location of sampling holes and eleatromagnetie-aonductivitu
survey at Stauffer Chemiaal Plant, PASNY, site 255, Lewiston.
423
-------
Line 3.—This line gives strong indications of artificial fill in an area
of high reeds 350 to 450 ft north of the dirt road. Evidence of a buried
(metallic) conductor is also indicated 200 ft north of line 1. Background
values at the north end of line 3 are lower than those at the southern end and
probably reflect a change in surficial geology.
Table C-38.—Analyses of substrate samples from Stauffer Chemical, site 255,
Niagara Falls, N.Y., August 12, 1982.
[Locations shown in fig. C-59. Concentrations are in yg/kg; dashes
indicate that constituent or compound was not found, LT indicates
it was found but below the quantifiable detection limit.]
Sample number and depth below land surface (ft)
1234
(5.0) (4.0) (4.0) (2.0)
Inorganic constituents
Arsenic — — —
Cadmium — — — —
Chromium 2,000 6,000 3,000 1,000
Copper 5,000 11,000 6,000
Iron 2 900,000 5,600,000 2,600,000 75,000
Lead — 10,000 10,000
Mercury — — — —
Nickel — 10,000
Zinc 8,000 21,000 11,000 1,000
Organic compound ***
Nonpriority pollutant
Boric acid, Tris
(l-methylethyl)-ester1 2,200
1 Tentative identification based on comparison with the National Bureau of
Standards (NBS) library. No external standard was available.
Concentration reported is semiquantitative and is based only on an
internal standard. GC/MS spectra were examined and interpreted by
GC/MS analysts.
*** Analyzed at detection limit above that required by this study.
424
-------
50
25
I
Background conductivity
LINE 1
50
25
1
Background conductivity
LINE 2
tr
100
200
300
Background conductivity
25
250 >-Reeds-I 500
DISTANCE, IN FEET
Swampy area 750
Figure C-60. Results of electromagntic-conductivity survey at Stauffer
Chemical Plant, PASNY, site 255, Lewsiton, lines 1 through 3.
425
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1985—556-080/8448
-------
TECHNICAL REPORT DATA
(Please read Instructions on the reverse before completing)
1. REPORT NO
EPA-905/4-85-001
2.
3. RECIPIENT'S ACCES$ION>NO.
4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE "Preliminary Evaluation of Chemical
Migration to Groundwater and the Niagara River from
Selected Waste-Disposal Sites"
5. REPORT DATE
6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION CODE
7. AUTHOFUS)
Edward J. Koszalka, James E. Paschal, Jr.,
Todd S. Miller and Philip B. Duran
}. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NO.
10. PROGRAM ELEMENT NO.
9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS
United States Geological Survey
Water Resources Division
521 West Seneca Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
T1. CONTRACT/GRANT NOi
12. SPONSORING AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS
Great Lakes National Program Office
nited States Environmental Protection Agency
36 South Clark Street, Room 958
Chicago, Illinois 60605
13. TYPE OF REPORT AND PERIOD COVERED
Final
14. SPONSORING AGENCY CODE
Great Lakes National Program
Qffice-USEPA Region V
15. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Region 9
600 Delaware Avenue. Buffalo. New York 14202
16. ABSTRACT
American and Canadian monitoring of the quality of the Niagara River has indicated
a need to assess contamination entering the river through the groundwater system.
The contamination probably emanates from point and nonpoint sources in the adjacent
area, along the U.S. side of the Niagara River from Lake Erie to Lewiston, approx-
imately 20 miles downstream, which contains a high density of chemical manufacturing
facilities and waste-disposal sites.
164 of the 215 hazardous waste disposal sites in Erie and Niagara Counties, New
York are within 3 miles of the Niagara River. In 1982, the USGS, in co-operation
with the USEPA and the NYDEC made a preliminary hydrogeologic and chemical evalua-
tion of 138 of these 164 toxic waste disposal sites. The purpose of the investiga-
tion was to identify sites that are possible sources of contamination to the
ground-water system. The study entailed a general literature review, site recon-
naisance and sampling, and a regional drilling and sampling program to obtain
background hydrogeologic data for reference.
61 of the 138 studies sites were designated as having a major potential for
contaminant migration.
17.
KEY WORDS AND DOCUMENT ANALYSIS
DESCRIPTORS
b.lDENTIFIERS/OPEN ENDED TERMS C. COSATI Field/Group
Hydrogeology
Contaminant transport
Hazardous waste disposal Sites
Erie County, New York
Niagara County, New York
Niagara River
is. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT Document is available
to Public through the National Information
Service (NTIS), Springfield, Virginia
22161
19. S
21. NO OF PAGES
456
20. SECURITY CLASS (This page)
Unclassified
22. PRICE
EPA Form 2220-1 (9-73)
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