&EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Solid Waste And
Emergency Response
(5102G)
SUPERFUND:
EPA/540/R-93/001
December 1992
PB93-963201
Progress at
National
Priority
List Sites
ALABAMA
1992 UPDATE
Printed on Reiycled Papt
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Publication #9200.5-7026
December 1992
NATIONAL PRIORITIES LIST SITES:
Alabama
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Office of Emergency & Remedial Response
Office of Program Management
Washington, DC 20460
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5, Librpp' CPl ••!?<•)
77 West Jackson DculcVil,
Cfiicago, JU 60504-3590 1
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If you wish to purchase copies of any additional State volumes, contact:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
U.S. Department of Commerce
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
(703) 486-4650
The complete set of the 49 State reports may be ordered as PB93-963250.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
A Brief Overview of Superfund v
Streamlining Superfund: The Superfund Accelerated Cleanup Model ix
How Superfund Works x
THE VOLUME
How to Use the State Book xi
A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
.XV
THE NPL REPORT
Progress to Date xix
THE NPL FACT SHEETS i
THE GLOSSARY
Terms used in the NPL Book G-l
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INTRODUCTION
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF SUPERFUND
During the second half of the Twentieth
Century, the environmental conse-
quences of more than 100 years of industrial-
ization in the United States became increas-
ingly clear. Authors such as Rachel Carson
wrote passionately about the often-hidden en-
vironmental effects of our modern society's
widespread use of chemicals and other haz-
ardous materials. Their audience was small at
first, but gradually their message spread.
Growing concern turned to action, as people
learned more about the environment and be-
gan to act on their knowledge
The 1970s saw environmental issues burst
onto the national scene and take hold in the
national consciousness. The first Earth Day
was observed in 1970, the year that the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was
founded. By the end of the 1970s, Love Canal
in New York and the Valley of the Drums in
Kentucky had entered the popular lexicon as
synonyms for pollution and environmental
degradation.
Superfund Is Established
The industrialization that gave Americans the
world's highest standard of living also created
problems that only a national program could
address. By 1980, the U.S. Congress had
passed numerous environmental laws, imple-
mented by the EPA, but many serious hazard-
ous waste problems were slipping through the
cracks.
Responding to growing concern about public
health and environmental threats from uncon-
trolled releases of hazardous materials, the
U.S. Congress passed the Comprehensive En-
vironmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA). Popularly known as
Superfund, CERCLA had one seemingly
simple job—to uncover and clean up hazard-
ous materials spills and contaminated sites.
A Big Job
Few in Congress, the EPA, the environmen-
tal community, or the general public knew in
1980 just how big the nation's hazardous ma-
terials problem is. Almost everyone thought
that Superfund would be a short-lived pro-
gram requiring relatively few resources to
clean up at most a few hundred sites. They
were quite mistaken.
As the EPA set to work finding sites and
gauging their potential to harm people and
the environment, the number of sites grew.
Each discovery seemed to lead to another,
and today almost 36,000 hazardous waste
sites have been investigated as potential haz-
ardous waste sites. They are catalogued in
the EPA's computerized database, CERCLIS
(for the Comprehensive Environmental Re-
-------
INTRODUCTION
sponse, Compensation, and Liability Informa-
tion System).
The damage to public health and the environ-
ment that each site in CERCLIS might cause
is evaluated; many sites have been referred to
State and local governments for cleanup. The
EPA lists the nation's most serious hazardous
waste sites on the National Priorities List, or
NPL. (These Superfund sites are eligible for
federally-funded cleanup, but whenever pos-
sible the EPA makes polluters pay for the
contamination they helped create.) The NPL
now numbers 1,275 sites, with 50 to 100
added each year. By the end of the century,
the NPL may reach as many as 2,100 sites.
Superfund faces some of the most complex
pollution problems ever encountered by an
environmental program. Improperly stored or
disposed chemicals and the soil they contami-
nate are one concern. More difficult to correct
are the wetlands and bays, and the groundwa-
ter, lakes, and rivers often used for drinking
water that are contaminated by chemicals
spreading through the soil or mixing with
storm water runoff. Toxic vapors contaminate
the air at some sites, threatening the health of
people living and working near by.
Superfund aims to control immediate public
health and environmental threats by tackling
the worst problems at the worst sites first.
Wherever possible, Superfund officials use
innovative treatment techniques—many de-
veloped or refined by the EPA—to correct
hazardous materials problems once and for
all. Many of the treatment techniques they use
did not exist when the program was created.
The EPA Administrator had challenged Su-
perfund to complete construction necessary
for cleanup work at 130 NPL sites by the end
of the 1992 federal fiscal year. By September
30, 1992, the end of fiscal year 1992, con-
struction had been completed at a total of 149
NPL sites. Superfund is well on its way of
meeting the Administrator's goal of complet-
ing construction at 200 NPL sites by the end
of fiscal year 1993, and 650 sites by the end
of fiscal year 2000.
Quick Cleanup at
Non-NPL Sites
Long-standing hazardous waste sites are not
Superfund's only concern. The EPA also re-
sponds to hazardous spills and other emergen-
cies, hauling away chemicals for proper treat-
ment or disposal. Superfund teams perform or
supervise responses at rail and motor vehicle
accidents, fires, and other emergencies in-
volving hazardous substances. They also
evacuate people living and working near by,
if necessary, and provide clean drinking water
to people whose own water is contaminated.
Removal crews also post warning signs and
take other precautions to keep people and ani-
mals away from hazardous substances.
Superfund employee prepares equipment for groundwater
treatment.
VI
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INTRODUCTION
Quick Cleanups, or Removals, are not limited
to emergencies. When cleanup crews at con-
taminated sites find hazardous substances that
immediately threaten people or the environ-
ment, they act right away to reduce the threat
or to remove the chemicals outright. As the
EPA implements the Superfund Accelerated
Cleanup Model (SACM), more and more sites
will undergo quick cleanups, and many of
these will be cleaned up completely without
ever being included on the NPL. (See
"Streamlining Superfund: The Superfund Ac-
celerated Cleanup Model.")
Some of Superfund's most significant gains in
public health and environmental protection
have been won by the removal program. As of
March 31, 1992, the Emergency Response
Superfund employee removing drums from a Superfund site.
Program had logged more than 2,300 removal
completions since Superfund was established.
The Public's Role
Superfund is unique among federal programs
in its commitment to citizen participation. Al-
though the EPA is responsible for determin-
ing how dangerous a site is and how best to
clean it up, the Agency relies on citizen input
as it makes these decisions.
Community residents are often invaluable
sources of information about a hazardous
waste site, its current and previous owners,
and the activities that took place there. Such
information can be crucial to experts evaluat-
ing a site and its potential dangers.
Residents also comment on EPA cleanup
plans by stating their concerns and prefer-
ences at public meetings and other forums and
in formal, written comments to Agency pro-
posals. The EPA takes these comments and
concerns seriously, and has modified many
proposals in response to local concerns. For,
ultimately, it is the community and its citizens
that will live with the results of the EPA's de-
cisions and actions; it is only fair that citizens
participate in the process.
A Commitment to
Communication
The Superfund program is very serious about
public outreach and communication. Com-
munity relations coordinators are assigned to
each NPL site to help the public understand
the potential hazards present, as well as the
cleanup alternatives. Local information re-
positories, such as libraries or other public
buildings, have been established near each
NPL site to ensure that the public has an op-
portunity to review all relevant information
and the proposed cleanup plans.
The individual State volumes contain sum-
mary fact sheets on NPL sites in each State
and territory. Together, the fact sheets provide
a concise report on site conditions and the
progress made toward site cleanups as of
March 1992. The EPA revises these volumes
periodically to provide an up-to-date record of
program activities. A glossary of key terms
relating to hazardous waste management and
Superfund site cleanup is provided at the back
of this book.
VII
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INTRODUCTION
Superfund is, of course, a public program, and
as such it belongs to everyone of us. This vol-
ume, along with other State volumes, com-
prises the EPA's report on Superfund
progress to the program's owners for the year
1992.
VIII
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INTRODUCTION
STREAMLINING SUPERFUND: THE SUPERFUND
ACCELERATED CLEANUP MODEL
Historically, critics and supporters alike
have measured Superfund's progress
by the number of hazardous waste sites de-
leted from the NPL. Although easy enough to
tally, this approach is too narrow. It misses
the major gains Superfund makes by reducing
major risks at the nation's worst hazardous
sites long before all clean-up work is done
and the site deleted. It also ignores the Re-
moval Program's contributions to meeting
Superfund's twin mandates of maximizing
public health and environmental protection.
Renewing Superfund's commitment to rapid
protection from hazardous materials, the EPA
is streamlining the program. The Superfund
Accelerated Cleanup Model, or SACM, will
take Early Actions, such as removing hazard-
ous wastes or contaminated materials, while
experts study the site. SACM also will com-
bine similar site studies to reduce the time re-
quired to evaluate a site and its threats to
people and the environment. This way, imme-
diate public health and environmental threats
will be addressed while long-term cleanups
are being planned.
Emergencies such as train derailments and
motor vehicle accidents will continue to be
handled expeditiously. Teams of highly
trained technicians will swing into action
right away, coordinating the cleanup and re-
moval of hazardous substances to ensure pub-
lic safety as quickly as possible.
Breaking With Tradition
The traditional Superfund process begins with
a lengthy phase of study and site assessment,
but SACM will save time by combining sepa-
rate, yet similar, activities. Each EPA Region
will form a Decision Team of site managers,
risk assessors, community relations coordina-
tors, lawyers, and other experts to monitor the
studies and quickly determine whether a site
requires Early Action (taking less than five
years), Long-term Action, or both.
While the site studies continue, the Decision
Team will begin the short-term work required
to correct immediate public health or environ-
mental threats from the site. Besides remov-
ing hazardous materials, Early Actions in-
clude taking precautions to keep contaminants
from moving off the site and restricting access
to the site. Early Actions could eliminate most
human risk from these sites, and Superfund
will further focus its public participation and
public information activities on site assess-
ment and Early Action.
Long-Term Solutions
While Early Actions can correct many hazard-
ous waste problems—and provide the bulk of
public health and environmental protection—
some contamination will take longer to cor-
rect. Cleanups of mining sites, wetlands, estu-
aries, and projects involving incineration of
contaminants or restoration of groundwater
can take far longer than the three to five years
envisioned for Early Actions. Under SACM,
these sites will be handled much as they are
now.
Also under SACM, the EPA will continue its
pursuit of potentially responsible parties who
may have caused or contributed to site con-
tamination. Expedited enforcement and
procedures for negotiating potentially respon-
sible party settlements will secure their par-
ticipation. Superfund personnel will continue
to oversee clean-up work performed by poten-
tially responsible parties.
IX
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INTRODUCTION
HOW SUPERFUND WORKS
Each Superfund site presents a different
set of complex problems. The same haz-
ardous materials and chemicals often con-
taminate many sites, but the details of each
site are different. Almost always, soil is con-
taminated with one or more chemicals. Their
vapors may taint the air over and around the
site. Contaminants may travel through the soil
and reach underground aquifers which may be
used for drinking water, or they may spread
over the site to contaminate streams, ponds,
and wetlands. The contaminating chemicals
may interact with each other, presenting even
more complicated cleanup problems.
Superfund's cleanup process is arduous and
exacting. It requires the best efforts of hun-
dreds of experts in science and engineering,
public health, administration and manage-
ment, law, and many other fields.
The average NPL site takes from seven to ten
years to work its way through the system,
from discovery to the start of long-term
cleanup. Actual cleanup work can take years,
decades if contaminated groundwater must
be treated. Of course, imminent threats to
public health or the environment are cor-
rected right away.
The diagram to the right presents a simplified
view of the cleanup process. The major steps
in the Superfund process are:
• Site discovery and investigation to iden-
tify contaminants and determine whether
emergency action is required;
• Emergency site work such as removing
contaminants for proper treatment or dis-
posal, and securing the site to keep people
and animals away, if warranted by condi-
tions at the site;
• Site evaluation to determine how people
living and working nearby, and the envi-
ronment, may be exposed to site contami-
nants;
1 Detailed studies to determine whether con-
ditions are serious enough to add the site to
the National Priorities List of sites eligible
for federally funded cleanup under Super-
fund;
• Selection, design, and implementation of a
cleanup plan, after a thorough review of
the most effective cleanup options, given
site conditions, contaminants present, and
their potential threat to public health or the
environment.
• Follow-up to ensure that the cleanup work
done at the site continues to be effective
over the long term.
The Superfund Process
From the earliest stages, EPA investigators
work hard to identify those responsible for the
contamination. As their responsibility is es-
tablished, the EPA negotiates with these "re-
sponsible parties" to pay for cleaning up the
problem they helped create. This "enforce-
ment first" policy saves Superfund Trust Fund
monies for use in cleanups where the respon-
sible parties cannot be identified, or where
they are unable to fund cleanup work.
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THE VOLUME
How to Use the State Book
The site fact sheets presented in this book
are comprehensive summaries that cover
a broad range of information. The fact sheets
describe hazardous waste sites on the NPL and
their locations, as well as the conditions
leading to their listing ("Site Description").
The summaries list the types of contaminants
that have been discovered and related threats
to public and ecological health ("Threats and
Contaminants"). "Cleanup Approach" pres-
ents an overview of the cleanup activities
completed, underway, or planned. The fact
sheets conclude with a brief synopsis of how
much progress has been made in protecting
public health and the environment. The
summaries also pinpoint other actions, such as
legal efforts to involve polluters responsible
for site contamination and community con-
cerns.
The fact sheets are arranged in alphabetical
order by site name. Because site cleanup is a
dynamic and gradual process, all site informa-
tion is accurate as of the date shown on the
bottom of each page. Progress always is being
made at NPL sites, and the EPA periodically
will update the site fact sheets to reflect recent
actions and will publish updated State vol-
umes. The following two pages show a ge-
neric fact sheet and briefly describe the infor-
mation under each section.
How Can You Use
This State Book?
You can use this book to keep informed about
the sites that concern you, particularly ones
close to home. The EPA is committed to
involving the public in the decision making
process associated with hazardous waste
cleanup. The Agency solicits input from area
residents in communities affected by Super-
fund sites. Citizens are likely to be affected
not only by hazardous site conditions, but also
by the remedies that combat them. Site clean-
ups take many forms and can affect communi-
ties in different ways. Local traffic may be
rerouted, residents may be relocated, tempo-
rary water supplies may be necessary.
Definitive information on a site can help
citizens sift through alternatives and make
decisions. To make good choices, you must
know what the threats are and how the EPA
intends to clean up the site. You must under-
stand the cleanup alternatives being proposed
for site cleanup and how residents may be
affected by each one. You also need to have
some idea of how your community intends to
use the site in the future, and you need to know
what the community can realistically expect
once the cleanup is complete.
The EPA wants to develop cleanup methods
that meet community needs, but the Agency
only can take local concerns into account if it
understands what they are. Information must
travel both ways in order for cleanups to be
effective and satisfactory. Please take this
opportunity to learn more, become involved,
and assure that hazardous waste cleanup at
"your" site considers your community's
concerns.
XI
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THE VOLUME
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Provides the dates when the
site was Proposed, made Final,
and Deleted from the NPL.
SITE RESPONSIBILITY
Identifies the Federal, State,
and/or potentially responsible
parties taking responsibility
for cleanup actions at the site.
ENVIRONMENTAL
PROGRESS
Summarizes the actions to
reduce the threats to nearby
residents and the surrounding
environment and the progress
towards cleaning up the site.
SITE NAME
EPA REGION XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
STATE
EPA ID# ABCOOOOOOO
Site Description
Site Responsibility:
NPL Listing History
Threats and Contaminants
Cleanup Approach
Response Action Status
Environmental Progress
Site Repository
SITE REPOSITORY
Lists the location of the primary site repository. The site
repository may include community relations plans, public
meeting announcements and minutes, fact sheets, press
releases, and other site-related documents.
XII
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THE VOLUME
SITE DESCRIPTION
This section describes the location and history of the site. It includes descrip-
tions of the most recent activities and past actions at the site that have con-
tributed to the contamination. Population estimates, land usages, and nearby
resources give readers background on the local setting surrounding the site.
THREATS AND CONTAMINANTS
The major chemical categories of site contamination are noted, as well as
which environmental resources are affected. Icons representing each of the
affected resources (may include air, groundwater, surface water, soil, and
contamination to environmentally sensitive areas) are included in the margins
of this section. Potential threats to residents and the surrounding environ-
ments arising from the site contamination also are described.
CLEANUP APPROACH
This section contains a brief overview of how the site is being cleaned up.
®
RESPONSE ACTION STATUS
Specific actions that have been accomplished or will be undertaken to clean
up the site are described here. Cleanup activities at NPL sites are divided
into separate phases, depending on the complexity and required actions at the
site. Two major types of cleanup activities often are described: initial,
immediate, or emergency actions to quickly remove or reduce imminent
threats to the community and surrounding areas; and long-term remedial
phases directed at final cleanup at the site. Each stage of the cleanup strategy
is presented in this section of the summary. Icons representing the stage of
the cleanup process (initial actions, site investigations, EPA selection of the
cleanup remedy, engineering design phase, cleanup activities underway, and
completed cleanup) are located in the margin next to each activity descrip-
tion.
SITE FACTS
Additional information on activities and events at the site are included in this
section. Often details on legal or administrative actions taken by the EPA to
achieve site cleanup or other facts pertaining to community involvement with
the site cleanup process are reported here.
XIII
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THE VOLUME
The "icons," or symbols, accompanying the text allow the reader to see at a glance which envi-
ronmental resources are affected and the status of cleanup activities at the site.
Icons in the Threats
and Contaminants
Section
Contaminated Groundwater resources
in the vicinity or underlying the site.
(Groundwater is often used as a drink-
ing water source.)
Contaminated Surface Water and
Sediments on or near the site. (These
include lakes, ponds, streams, and
rivers.)
Contaminated Air in the vicinity of
the site. (Air pollution usually is
periodic and involves contaminated
dust particles or hazardous gas emis-
sions.)
Contaminated Soil and Sludges on or
near the site. (This contamination
category may include bulk or other
surface hazardous wastes found on the
site.)
Threatened or contaminated Environ-
mentally Sensitive Areas in the vicinity
of the site. (Examples include wet-
lands and coastal areas or critical
habitats.)
Icons in the Response
Action Status Section
Initial, Immediate, or Emergency
Actions have been taken or are
underway to eliminate immediate
threats at the site.
Site Studies at the site to determine
the nature and extent of contamination
are planned or underway.
Remedy Selected indicates that site
investigations have been concluded,
and the EPA has selected a final
cleanup remedy for the site or part of
the site.
Remedy Design means that engineers
are preparing specifications and
drawings for the selected cleanup
technologies.
Cleanup Ongoing indicates that the
selected cleanup remedies for the
contaminated site, or part of the site,
currently are underway.
Cleanup Complete shows that all
cleanup goals have been achieved for
the contaminated site or part of the
site.
XIV
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A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
xv
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X- Major Cites
• NPL Sites
Superfund Activities
in Alabama
The State of Alabama is located within EPA Region 4, which
includes the eight southeastern States. The State covers 51,705
square miles. According to the 1990 Census, Alabama experi-
enced nearly a four percent increase in population between
1980 and 1990, and is ranked twenty-second in U.S. popula-
tion with approximately 4,102,000 residents.
The Alabama Hazardous Substance Cleanup Fund, enacted
in 1988, provides enforcement authority and funding for the
State's responsibility in the execution of the Superfund pro-
gram. The statute grants the State the authority to determine a
polluter's proportional contribution for site cleanup. Once
determined the State is authorized to compel the polluters to
perform or pay for their share of site cleanup. Unless there is an imminent threat
to human health or the environment, a hearing is required prior to the State issuing
a cleanup order. In the event that the State is unable to determine proportional
contributions, the State relies on the judicial system to make final determinations. The statute
also allows the State to issue site access orders, collect civil penalties, and recover the State's
costs involved in cleanup. In practice, the State program encourages voluntary polluter participa-
tion. When no polluters willfully volunteer to address contamination at a site, the State uses the
Hazardous Substance Cleanup Fund to perform small-scale removal actions itself or refers the
case to the air or water programs, as appropriate. State funding may be used only at sites that are
not on the Federal National Priority List at the time cleanup activities begin, as the fund is in-
tended primarily for the small-scale, emergency removals of drums. In addition, the Fund may
be used for the 10 percent contribution required from the State by the Federal Superfund pro-
gram. The statute requires the State to provide the community with a 30-day comment period on
the cleanup plan and to announce the proposed plan in a county-wide paper. Currently, 12 sites
in the State of Alabama have been listed as final on the NPL. No new sites have been proposed
for listing in 1992.
The Alabama Department of Environmental Management
implements the Superfund Program in the State of Alabama
Activities responsible for hazardous
waste contamination in the State of
Alabama include:
Federal
Facilities
Chemical
Manufacturers
Electronics
and Electrical
Equipment
Manufacturers
Other
Storage and
Disposal Facilities
Pesticide
Manufacturers
Facts about the 12 NPL sites
in Alabama:
Immediate Actions (such as removing
hazardous substances or restricting
site access) were performed at eight
sites.
Seven sites endanger sensitive envi-
ronments.
Seven sites are located near residen-
tial areas.
XVII
March 1992
-------
ALABAMA
Most Sites Have Multiple Contaminants and
Contaminated Media:
Media Contaminated at Sites
Air
Surface
Water
Sediments
Soil
Ground-
water
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Percentage of Sites
Contaminants Found at Sites
Percentage of Sites
VOCs
Heavy Metals
Pesticides/Herbicides
PCBs
Creosotes
Petrochemicals/Explosives
Asbestos
67%
58%
25%
8%
8%
8%
8%
The Potentially Responsible
Party Pays...
In the State of Alabama, potentially responsible
parties are paying for or conducting cleanup
activities at 10 sites.
For Further Information on NPL Sites and Hazardous
Waste Programs in the State of Alabama Please Contact:
EPA Region 4 Public Affairs
Office
National Response Center
The Alabama Department of
Environmental Management:
Special Projects Office
EPA Region 4 Waste Management
Division
EPA Superfund Hotline
For information concerning
community involvement
To report a hazardous
waste emergency
For information about the
State's responsibility in the
Superfund Program
For information about the
Regional Superfund Program
For information about the
Federal Superfund Program
(404) 347-3004
(800) 424-8802
(205) 260-2777
(404) 347-5065
(800) 424-9068
March 1992
XVIII
-------
THE NPL REPORT
PROGRESS TO DATE
The following Progress Report lists all
sites currently on, or deleted from, the
NPL and briefly summarizes the status of ac-
tivities for each site at the time this report was
prepared. The steps in the Superfund cleanup
process are arrayed across the top of the chart,
and each site's progress through these steps is
represented by an arrow (O) indicating the
current stage of cleanup.
Large and complex sites often are organized
into several cleanup stages. For example,
separate cleanup efforts may be required to
address the source of the contamination,
hazardous substances in the groundwater, and
surface water pollution, or to clean up differ-
ent areas of a large site. In such cases, the
chart portrays cleanup progress at the site's
most advanced stage, reflecting the status of
site activities rather than administrative ac-
complishments.
£> An arrow in the "Initial Response" cate-
gory indicates that an emergency
cleanup, immediate action, or initial ac-
tion has been completed or currently is
underway. Emergency or initial actions
are taken as an interim measure to pro-
vide immediate relief from exposure to
hazardous site conditions or to stabilize
a site to prevent further contamination.
^> A final arrow in the "Site Studies" cat-
egory indicates that an investigation to
determine the nature and extent of the
contamination at the site currently is on-
going or planned.
O A final arrow in the "Remedy Selection"
category means that the EPA has se-
lected the final cleanup strategy for the
site. At the few sites where the EPA has
determined that initial response actions
have eliminated site contamination, or
that any remaining contamination will
be naturally dispersed without further
cleanup activities, a "No Action" rem-
edy has been selected. In these cases,
the arrows are discontinued at the
"Remedy Selection" step and resume in
the "Construction Complete" category.
^> A final arrow at the "Remedial Design"
stage indicates that engineers currently
are designing the technical specifica-
tions for the selected cleanup remedies
and technologies.
^ A final arrow in the "Cleanup Ongoing"
column means that final cleanup actions
have been started at the site and cur-
rently are underway.
^ A final arrow in the "Construction Com-
plete" category is used only when all
phases of the site cleanup plan have
been performed, and the EPA has deter-
mined that no additional construction
actions are required at the site. Some
sites in this category currently may be
undergoing long-term operation and
maintenance or monitoring to ensure
that the cleanup actions continue to pro-
tect human health and the environment.
/ A check in the "Deleted" category indi-
cates that the site cleanup has met all
human health and environmental goals
and that the EPA has deleted the site
from the NPL.
Further information on the activities and
progress at each site is given in the site "Fact
Sheets" published in this volume.
XIX
-------
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ALABAMA ARMY J§&\ **S*SS 4
AMMUNITION
ALABAMA
EPA ID#AL6210020008
Site Description
The Alabama Army Ammunition Plant (AAAP) covers approximately 5,170 acres just east of
the Coosa River, 4 miles north of Childersburg. The plant was established in 1941 and was
used for the manufacture of explosives including trinitrotoluene (TNT), dinitrotoluene,
nitrocellulose, and tetryl. The Army ceased operations in 1945, but the plant was on standby
status until 1973, when it was declared excess property. Most of the structures used in the
manufacturing processes have been demolished or destroyed by controlled burning. Sources
of contamination include disposal sites, as well as spills and general wastes including recycled
acids from the manufacturing operations. Because the site is of a complex nature, and the
site activities were so varied, the site has been divided into Areas A and B for cleanup
purposes. Present use of the site includes timber cutting and licensed deer hunting. Land use
around the site is primarily recreational, industrial, agricultural, or undeveloped. Three farms
border the site and a small residential community lies several thousand feet southeast of the
site next to Talladega Creek, which may be considered a groundwater divide located between
AAAP and the City. Only an estimated 40 residents live within 1 to 2 miles of the site. There
are other residences both north and south of the site, but they are buffered from the site by
other industry or extensive undeveloped or wooded areas. Childersburg uses groundwater for
drinking water. The total population using the river as a source of drinking water is estimated
to be 1,800, and the population using groundwater is estimated to be 700.
«v» » -U-1-. ^n.- v • u • ^ s *u u NPI_ LISTING HISTORY
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Federal actions. Final Date: Q7/07/87
Threats and Contaminants
Contaminants of concern on site are the nitroaromatic compounds, including TNT,
which have been detected in the surface water and the groundwater, which is the
main source of drinking water. Lead, asbestos, and nitroaromatic compounds have
been detected in the soil. Coming in direct contact with or accidentally ingesting
the contaminated groundwater, surface water, or soils could be a major health
threat. There also is a possibility of a fire or explosion due to the nature of the
wastes on site. Ecological risk will be evaluated as a part of the Army's continued
study to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify
alternatives for cleanup.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of
stockpile soils at Area A, cleanup of groundwater and surface water contamination at Area
B, and investigations of the effectiveness of Area A cleanup.
Response Action Status
Stockpile Soils at Area A: The Army completed an investigation for Area A of
the site to evaluate the nature and the extent of the contamination. The results of
the study helped the Army to decide on the engineering designs to be used to
clean up the site. The EPA concurred with the selected procedures, and the Army has carried
out the cleanup operation. The cleanup actions in Area A included soil excavation and
decontamination of storage igloos and buildings. The work was completed in 1988. By 1992,
all previously excavated and stockpiled soils are expected to be incinerated. Additional soil
removal from Area A will be required under a future remedy decision.
Area B: The Army currently is investigating Area B of the site to evaluate the
nature and the extent of the contamination. Previous investigations have found
that groundwater contaminated with nitroaromatic compounds is above Federal
drinking water standards, and surface water contaminated with nitroaromatics and lead also is
above water quality standards. The investigation is scheduled to be completed in 1992. Once
the study has been completed, the EPA will make a final remedy selection.
Area A: In 1990, the EPA began an investigation to determine if the Army had
excavated and removed soils from Area A according to statutory requirements.
This investigation is scheduled to be completed in 1993.
Site Facts: A Federal Facility Agreement has been filed between the Army, the Alabama
Department of Environmental Management, and the EPA for cleanup actions at the site.
AAAP also is participating in the Installation Restoration Program, a specially funded
program established by the Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate,
and control the migration of hazardous contaminants at military and other DOD facilities.
The Army has selected 24 separate study areas within Areas A and B of the AAAP site.
Environmental Progress
The Army has cleaned up the contamination in Area A of the installation, and investigations
into the extent of contamination in Area B and the remedy recommendations and selection
are proceeding with assistance from the EPA. The potential for exposure to hazardous
materials has been reduced while investigations into the final cleanup solution are taking
place.
March 1992 2 ALABAMA ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT
-------
Site Repository
Earle A. Rainwater Memorial Library, The Alabama Room, 112 Ninth Avenue, SW,
Childersburg, AL 35044
ALABAMA ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT 3 March 1992
-------
ANNISTON
DEPOT
INDUSTRIAL
ALABAMA
EPA ID# AL3210020027
Site Description
REGION 4
Calhoun County
Anniston
The Anniston Army Depot (Southeast Industrial Area) site comprises 600 acres in the
southeastern area of the Nichols Industrial Complex. This area consists of several shipping
and warehouse buildings that have been used since 1948 for the repair and modification of
combat vehicles and artillery equipment. The Depot's initial mission was limited to
ammunition storage, refurbishment, testing, and decommissioning of combat vehicles and
various types of military equipment. A 1979 study revealed that on-site disposal of wastes
generated by chemical cleaning, painting, and plating operations had resulted in groundwater
contamination. Two facilities were closed as a result of the 1979 investigations: a 2-million-
gallon lagoon (A-Block Lagoon) and a landfill operation (Site Z-l). Approximately 39,000
residents live near the site in Anniston. The southeastern industrial area is drained by Dry
Creek, which flows into Choccolocco Creek, a tributary of the Coosa River. Coldwater Spring
is located adjacent to Dry Creek, approximately 1 1/2 miles south of the depot boundary.
The spring is the primary source of drinking water for approximately 72,000 people in
Calhoun County.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
Final Date: 03/15/89
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals, chlorinated solvents, and
volatile organic compounds (VOCs). A soil removal operation was conducted by
the Army on two separate occasions to remove contaminated soils to a permitted
treatment facility. The contamination included chromium, methylene chloride,
trichloroethylene (TCE), phenols, and dichloroethylene. Aquatic life that may be at
risk from contamination in the Coldwater Spring includes pygmy sculpin, water
snake, crayfish, and various aquatic insects. If site-related contaminants have
migrated into Coldwater Spring, residents could drink and be directly exposed to
contaminated water.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleanup of groundwater and cleanup of the South East Industrial Area.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: The Army excavated contaminated soil and removed it to an off-
site approved disposal facility. This removal action was completed in 1983. The Army
installed an air stripper in 1987 to treat the 400,000 to 900,000 gallons per day of
groundwater pumped from underneath the Metal Finish Facility. It is recommended that a
network of groundwater quality monitoring points be established to evaluate extraction system
effectiveness in each area. These monitoring wells ideally would be sampled prior to
groundwater extraction system start-up to establish baseline conditions, and at some regular
interval thereafter (e.g., semi-annually).
Groundwater: A total of 16 extraction wells were installed in 1988: seven wells at
the trench area (Site Z-l), six wells in the northeastern area, and three in the old
landfill area. These wells were evaluated to provide a basis for site characterization
and groundwater extraction system design and optimization. The extraction wells and treatment
facilities are scheduled for construction completion in 1992. The extraction systems will operate
for 24 continuous hours. Automatic on/off systems for intermittent operation (i.e., pumping) will
be used for all wells, especially low-yielding wells in critical capture areas. Extraction system
performance monitoring during the first 3 to 6 months of system operation will provide
additional data on long-term aquifer behavior, draw-down effects, and contaminant capture.
Actual cleanup activities began in late 1991.
Southeast Industrial Area: In 1990, the Army began a study of the nature and
extent of site contamination. When it is completed, scheduled for 1993, appropriate
cleanup remedies will be selected.
Site Facts: A Federal Facility Agreement has been negotiated between the Army, the Alabama
Department of Environmental Management, and the EPA for cleanup actions. Anniston Army
Depot is participating in the Installation Restoration Program, a specially funded program
established by the Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate, and control
the migration of hazardous contaminants at military and other DOD facilities. The Army has
completed the records search phase and has finished an assessment of cleanup alternatives.
Environmental Progress
The Army already has taken several steps to improve conditions at the Anniston Army Depot
(Southeast Industrial Area), such as excavating and removing contaminated soil and installing an
air stripping treatment system to pump and treat contaminated groundwater. Cleanup activities
are continuing, and extraction wells have been installed; therefore, the site currently does not
pose an immediate threat to the public or to the environment.
ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT 5 March 1992
(SOUTHEAST INDUSTRIAL AREA)
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Site Repository
Anniston Public Library, 108 East Tenth Street, Anniston, AL 36202
March 1992
ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT
(SOUTHEAST INDUSTRIAL AREA)
-------
CIBA-GEIGY
CORPORATION
(MCINTOSH PLA
ALABAMA
EPAID#ALD001221902
Site Description
EPA REGION 4
Washington County
Mclntosh
The Ciba-Geigy Corporation (Mclntosh Plant) produces industrial organic chemicals,
pesticides, agricultural chemicals, and synthetic resins on a 1,500-acre site in Mclntosh. The
plant was built in the early 1950s, and the company formerly disposed of wastes in several on-
site landfills and in an open burning area. Disposal of wastes is now carried out under EPA
requirements. Pesticides have been found in soil and sediments downgradient of the burn
area and in a drinking water well on the site. Prior to 1965, effluent from the plant flowed
into the Tombigbee River after chemicals were neutralized in the facility's wastewater
impoundment. However, an aeration basin and holding basin were constructed in 1965 to
treat the effluent. Over the years, modifications have been made to the treatment system to
meet State and Federal discharge standards. Approximately 2,200 residents of Mclntosh
receive drinking water from a public well within 3 miles of the site; however, most public wells
are upstream from the site and do not appear to be contaminated. The closest residence is
less than 1,000 feet away from the site. The Tombigbee River and freshwater wetlands are
within 100 feet of several former disposal areas, and the wetlands area is subject to periodic
flooding by the river.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/24/84
Threats and Contaminants
m
A drinking water well on the site is contaminated with lindane from former waste
disposal practices. Sediments are contaminated with heavy metals including
chromium and mercury. Soil is contaminated with DDT and lindane. Surface water
contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including chlorobenzene, toluene, and
phenols. Trespassers at the facility who accidently ingest or otherwise come into
contact with contaminated groundwater, surface water, soil, or sediments may be
at risk. Runoff from the site could threaten wetlands near the disposal areas.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in four long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the
groundwater; the affected deep aquifer and soil; the wetlands area; and the bluff line, flood
plain and dilute ditch.
Response Action Status
Groundwater: The Ciba-Geigy Corporation installed a groundwater pumping
system consisting of 10 fully penetrating alluvial pumping wells to intercept and
remove contaminated groundwater from the shallow aquifer. The water removed
from these wells is treated by the plant's on-site biological wastewater treatment system and
is then discharged into the Tombigbee River. The EPA has determined that no further action
is needed for this phase of the cleanup. Ciba-Geigy installed 43 monitoring wells and four
corrective action monitoring wells to determine the effectiveness of the groundwater
treatment system.
Deep Aquifer and Soil: In 1991, the Ciba-Geigy Corporation completed a study
determining the type and extent of the soil and deep aquifer contamination at the
site. The cleanup alternatives selected include the following: excavation of
contaminated soils and sludges; on-site thermal treatment of approximately 65,000 cubic yards
of highly contaminated soils and sludge; stabilization/solidification of approximately 62,300
cubic yards of moderately contaminated soils and sludge; disposal of treated soil and residual
ash in an on-site Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) approved landvault(s);
in-situ soil flushing combined with extraction wells to cleanup areas where the risk based
cleanup levels were not achieved before, excavation depth of 20 feet is reached; backfilling
the excavated areas with common fill and vegetating the area; operation and maintenance of
landvault(s) for a minimum of thirty years; and institutional control for land use and
groundwater use. Innovative technologies such as in situ vacuum extraction or in situ
bioremediation also may be used in addition to or instead of in situ soil flushing. The use of
these technologies will be determined during the design phase.
Wetlands: In 1992, the Ciba-Geigy Corporation began a study to determine the
nature and extent of contamination of the wetlands area. The study is expected
to be completed in 1993, at which time a cleanup remedy will be selected.
Bluff Line, Flood Plain, and Dilute Ditch: The Ciba-Geigy Corporation also is
studying the nature and extent of contamination of the bluff line, the flood plain,
and the dilute ditch. These studies are expected to be completed in 1992, at which
time a cleanup remedy will be selected.
Site Facts: The Ciba-Geigy Corporation is operating under a Federal hazardous waste
management permit.
March 1992 8 CIBA-GEIGY CORPORATION
(MCINTOSH PLANT)
-------
Environmental Progress
The EPA has determined that the groundwater cleanup phase of the Ciba-Geigy Corporation
(Mclntosh Plant) site cleanup is completed. Ciba-Geigy is monitoring the effectiveness of the
groundwater treatment system through monitoring wells. Cleanup alternatives for the deep
aquifer and soils have been selected and plans for cleanup activities are currently underway
while investigations at the bluff line, flood plain, and dilute ditch, and wetlands are still
ongoing.
Site Repository
Mclntosh Town Hall, Commerce Street, Mclntosh, AL 36553
CIBA-GEIGY CORPORATION (MCINTOSH PLANT)
March 1992
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INTERSTATE
LEAD COM PA
(ILCO)
ALABAMA
EPAID#ALD041906173
EPA REGION 4
Jefferson County
Leeds
Site Description
Interstate Lead Company (ILCO) owns and operates this 12-acre lead battery reclamation
facility and secondary lead smelter and has generated, treated, stored, and disposed of wastes
containing lead on both its property and other numerous locations near the site. Slag from
reclamation operations was used as fill at seven known sites, including the ILCO parking lot,
the City of Leeds Landfill, Fleming's Patio, the Acmar Church of God, J & L Fabricators,
Inc., the Connell property, and the Gulf Station. The unnamed tributary to Dry Creek,
adjacent to the main facility and parking lot, contains lead-contaminated sediments.
Approximately 3,000 people live within a 3-mile radius of the site, and the nearest home is
less than 1/4 mile away from the site. Six of the locations listed above are within 3 miles of
the springs and wells that supply drinking water to 6,000 families in Leeds. Access to most of
the sites is unrestricted.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, County, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
The County measured elevated lead concentrations in the air south and southwest
of the ILCO site in 1983 and 1984. The owner found lead and cadmium in
groundwater under the facility in 1985. Groundwater and soil also contain
chromium, nickel, and arsenic. The State detected lead in Dry Creek and an
unnamed tributary next to the facility. Surface water and sediments also contain
nickel and arsenic. People could be exposed to heavy metals by coming in direct
contact with or accidentally ingesting contaminated soils or by drinking polluted
groundwater. In addition, contaminants in nearby surface water could pose a
health threat to residents who use the area for recreation.
10
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: emergency actions and two long-term remedial
phase focusing on source control and cleanup of the groundwater.
Response Action Status
Emergency Actions: In 1984, the EPA removed lead-bearing wastes from the
Church of God area. ILCO has placed a synthetic liner over the parking lot,
covered waste piles at the main facility, diverted runoff, and begun construction
on a stormwater treatment system.
Source Control: In 1991, remedies were chosen to address the source of
contamination at each of the seven sub-sites. At the ILCO parking lot and
Fleming's Patio, lead-contaminated soils will be removed, treated, and then
replaced. Batteries and other debris will be removed, stabilized, and disposed of on site or
off site, as appropriate. These areas will be sampled for primary metal contamination
associated with automotive batteries on a semi-annual basis. At the Gulf Station, J & L
Fabricators, the Connell Property, and the Acmar Church of God, lead-contaminated
sediments will be removed, transported to the ILCO parking lot, treated, and placed with the
soils at the ILCO parking lot sub-site or replaced in their original sub-sites. The areas where
soils are removed will be backfilled with clean material. Lead-contaminated sediments will be
removed, dewatered, and transported to the ILCO parking lot for treatment with the soil. At
the Leeds Municipal Landfill, a clay cap will be installed to cover the lead contaminated soils.
Excavated areas at all sub-sites will be revegetated. In addition, access and deed restrictions
and groundwater monitoring will be implemented at all sub-sites. Engineering designs for
these activities are currently being developed and cleanup is expected to begin in mid-1993.
Groundwater: Studies of the groundwater at the Gulf Station and the Acmar
Church of God properties have shown no contamination. The low levels of
contamination at the J &L Fabricators, Fleming's Patio, and Connell Property will
naturally attenuate over time, therefore, no cleanup activities are required. Groundwater
monitoring is the only activity that will continue at these sub-sites. Preliminary studies at the
Leeds Municipal Landfill indicates that the best remedy for treating contaminated
groundwater is extraction, on-site treatment, and discharge of the decontaminated water into
an adjacent surface drainageway. Groundwater monitoring would occur both during and
after the extraction and treatment procedure. A final decision on the groundwater remedy is
not expected until 1996.
Site Facts: ILCO signed a Consent Order, agreeing to conduct a study of site contamination
and cleanup options on the main facility, parking lot, and tributaries to Dry Creek. These
activities were to be conducted under provisions of the Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA). At the present time, however, ILCO is in bankruptcy.
INTERSTATE LEAD COMPANY (ILCO) 11 March 1992
-------
Environmental Progress
The removal of wastes, installation of the liner, and surface drainage control have reduced
the potential for people to be exposed to hazardous materials at the Interstate Lead
Company site while studies and cleanup actions take place.
Site Repository
Leeds Public Library, 802 Parkway Drive, S.E., Leeds, AL 35094
March 1992
12
INTERSTATE LEAD COMPANY (ILCO)
-------
MOWBRAY
ENGINEERIN
COMPANY
ALABAMA
EPA ID# ALD031618069
EPA REGION 4
Butler County
Greenville
Site Description
The 3-acre Mowbray Engineering company site is located on a wetland which is saturated
most of the time. The company, which has repaired electrical transformers since the early
1940s, discharged waste transformer oils containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) to the
neighboring swamp for over 20 years. The swamp water ultimately drained into Persimmon
Creek, which is used for fishing. From 1955 to 1974, operators drained, repaired, and refilled
about 1,000 used transformers each year, each unit holding about 9 gallons of oil. In 1974,
the owners installed a 3,000-gallon underground storage tank to collect waste oil, which was
sold between 1974 and 1978. After that time, waste oil was recycled. Sampling over the years
has yielded inconsistent results. In 1975, after a major fish kill in an adjacent stream, EPA
analysts found only trace levels of PCBs, but when another kill occurred in 1980, they
discovered significant levels of PCBs in swamp soils. An aquifer underlying the site supplies
approximately 11,400 residents with drinking water; however, this aquifer was not affected by
site contamination.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
m
Sampling of the site's four monitoring wells revealed PCBs, carbon disulfide, and
various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the groundwater. Sediments and
soils downstream of the site and in the wetlands contained PCBs. Soil in the on-
site processing area contained PCBs, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs),
and VOCs. Fish caught in 1981 at the confluence of Persimmon Creek and
Tanyard Branch and downstream were contaminated with PCBs. Accidentally
ingesting or coming in direct contact with contaminated groundwater, surface
water, sediments or soil posed health threats. Eating contaminated fish was a
possible health threat, until cleanup actions were taken.
13
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site was addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1981, the EPA sent emergency cleanup workers to the
site to remove debris and the top 6 inches of PCB-contaminated swamp soil and
disposed of these wastes at an EPA-approved facility.
Entire Site: In 1985, when soils in the stormwater drainage pathway were
discovered to be highly contaminated with PCBs, the EPA devised a long-term
cleanup strategy. The remedy selected for this site included: excavating, removing,
and disposing of the underground storage tanks located on company property; treating or
disposing of waste oils encountered in the swamp area and in the underground storage tanks
by a method approved under the toxic substances control laws; diverting the drainage of
surface runoff around the swamp area; excavating contaminated soils and incinerating them
on or off the site, or alternatively stabilizing and solidifying them; grading and replanting the
swamp; properly closing the abandoned water supply well on site; and conducting operation
and maintenance activities as necessary. Cleanup was completed in 1991. Sampling conducted
after each cleanup phase confirmed that site cleanup standards were met. The Mowbray
Engineering Company site is in the process of being formally deleted from the NPL.
Site Facts: In 1990, the potentially responsible parties signed a Consent Decree, in which
they agreed to assume complete responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the site
and to pay for past investigation and cleanup activities.
Environmental Progress
All cleanup activities are completed at the Mowbray Engineering Company site, and the EPA
expects to delete the site from the NPL in 1994. Cleanup activities have eliminated all soil,
surface water, and groundwater contamination, making the site safe to nearby residents and
the environment. The EPA is currently in the process of conducting a 5-year review at the
site to verify that the remedy continues to be protective of public health and the
environment.
Site Repository
Greenville Public Library, 101 Adams Street, Greenville, AL 36037
March 1992 14 MOWBRAY ENGINEERING COMPANY
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OLIN CORPORA
(MCINTOSH P
ALABAMA
EPA ID# ALD008188708
EPA REGION 4
Washington County
Mclntosh
Other Names:
Olin Corp. Old Plant Landfill
Olin Corp-Mercury
Olin Corp Lime Slurry Ponds
Site Description
The 1,500-acre Olin Corp (Mclntosh Plant) has been used since the 1950s to manufacture
chlorine and caustic soda, using a mercury core process. In 1956, Olin constructed a pesticide
and organic chemical plant. The plant closed in 1982, and Olin switched from the mercury
cell process to the diaphragm cell process, which is being used today. Olin's past waste
disposal practices may have contaminated groundwater. On-site wells that once provided the
plant's drinking water are known to be contaminated. In 1980, Olin began installing
monitoring wells and found heavy metals and chlorinated aromatic compounds. Nearby wells
supply water to the community of Mclntosh and to the Ciba-Geigy and Olin plants. The
closest residence is less than a mile from the site. There are an estimated 220 people residing
within a 1-mile radius of the site. Also within 1 mile of the site is a sizable wetlands area. The
Tombigbee River is to the east of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
On-site wells that once provided the plant's drinking water are known to be
contaminated with chromium, lead, mercury, and chlorinated aromatic compounds.
Monitoring also has shown contamination with benzene, carbon tetrachloride, and
other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Accidentally ingesting or coming in
direct contact with volatile components of groundwater may pose potential health
risks to individuals. Soils in the vicinity of the active plant were contaminated with
hexachlorobenzene. The site is presently secured, reducing the risk of exposure to
contaminants. The adjacent river and wetland areas may be threatened by
contaminants from the site.
15
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two phases: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
maintenance activity.
Initial Actions: Contaminated areas were covered in 1984 to prevent the
infiltration of rainwater. The site also was secured. In 1990, contaminated soils
were removed from the active plant facility after having been identified during a
Entire Site: The parties potentially responsible for the site contamination are
continuing to study the groundwater problem and report results regularly to the
State. A water quality study will be conducted on the Tombigbee River and the
wetlands near the plant to determine the extent of contamination by mercury and other
contaminants discharged from the plant into the natural basin near the river. A full-scale
study of contamination at the site and evaluation of possible cleanup techniques began in
1990, with completion scheduled for 1993.
Environmental Progress
Initial actions to cover contaminated areas, remove contaminated soils, and secure the site
have reduced the risks of exposure to contaminants at the Olin Corporation (Mclntosh Plant)
site while further studies take place.
Site Repository
Mclntosh Town Hall, Commerce Street, Mclntosh, AL 36553
March 1992 16 OLIN CORPORATION (MCINTOSH PLANT)
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PERDIDO jgg^ EPAREG.ON 4
GROUNDWATER r>W??M
CONTAMINATIO
ALABAMA
EPA ID# ALD980728703
Site Description
The 15-acre Perdido Groundwater Contamination site was contaminated as a result of a 1965
train derailment on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad (now CSX Transportation, Inc.).
Tank cars spilled approximately 7,600 gallons of benzene into drainage ditches, which then
seeped into the underlying aquifer. The contaminated area is about 300 yards downgradient
of the derailment site. Another possible source of contamination is a cluster of several
underground storage tanks located 1,900 feet from the derailment area. In 1981, residents
became concerned about the taste and odor of the well water. The State confirmed
contamination of nine wells. As a result of the identification of the benzene-contaminated
wells, a Baldwin County Health officer recommended that residents within a 1-mile radius of
the derailment use alternate water supplies. Wells no longer are being used for drinking
water; however, some well water may be used for livestock and gardens. The Town of
Perdido has a population of approximately 450, of which 250 residents were directly affected
by contaminated well water. Within a 1-mile radius of the site are about 125 houses and
businesses. The surrounding area is agricultural; livestock grazing and timber logging for
paper production are the primary activities. A junior high school is 2,000 feet to the south of
the train derailment location.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through NPL LISTING HISTORY
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and soil are contaminated with benzene from the derailed tank
cars. Contaminated drinking water is not a threat to area residents, since an
alternate water supply was provided. However, ingestion of benzene may occur if
contaminated well water is being used to water livestock and gardens. Because
benzene does not have a tendency to be absorbed by soil, but seeps down into
groundwater, there is little threat of direct contact with the soil.
17 March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: an emergency response and a long-term remedial
phase focusing on groundwater cleanup at the site.
Response Action Status
Emergency Response: The National Guard provided two water tanks for
affected residents. CSX Transportation voluntarily connected 150 residences
within 1 mile downgradient of the site to the Atmore municipal water supply
system in 1983.
Groundwater: In 1988, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the groundwater
that includes pumping and treating the water by using air stripping and treating the
spent benzene-laden air with activated carbon adsorption. Air stripping is a process
in which contaminants are removed by forcing a stream of air through the water. Carbon
adsorption involves forcing the air through tanks containing activated carbon, a specially
treated material that attracts the contaminants. Once the water is treated, it will be released
into the aquifer. The air will be monitored and discharged after carbon adsorption treatment,
and groundwater will be monitored after the cleanup to ensure that cleanup goals have been
met. CSX completed construction of the groundwater treatment system in early 1992. Actual
cleanup of the groundwater also was initiated in 1992 and is expected to be completed in late
1993.
Site Facts: CSX Transportation agreed in 1983 to install a groundwater treatment system.
Environmental Progress
With the provision of an alternative water supply to affected residents, no immediate threats
exist at the Perdido Groundwater Contamination site while a groundwater treatment system
is being operated and further cleanup activities take place.
Site Repository
Bay Minette Public Library, 119 West Second Street, Bay Minette, AL 36507
March 1992 18 PERDIDO GROUNDWATER
CONTAMINATION
-------
REDWING
CARRIERS, INC.
(SAR ALAND)
ALABAMA
EPA ID# ALD980844385
Site Description
EPA REGION 4
Mobile County
Saraland
Redwing Carriers, Inc. began operations as a chemical transporting business on this 1-acre
site in 1961 and was used as a parking and washing terminal for company trucks. The trucks
carried numerous substances, including asphalt, diesel fuel, weed killer, oil, and sulfuric acid.
After the site was sold by Redwing in 1971, it was covered with fill material, graded, and an
apartment complex was built on it. Residents of the complex became concerned after tar-like
material began oozing to the surface at numerous locations, including the building courtyard
and parking lot. In 1985, the EPA detected high levels of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs)
in the soil and the leachate coming from the tar-like material. The apartment complex houses
approximately 160 people. The City of Saraland Water Department provides drinking water
to 19,000 people. The water is obtained from three 100-foot-deep wells less than 2 miles from
the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
Soil around the apartment complex and leachate from the tar oozing to the
surface are contaminated with various VOCs from the former site activities. The
aquifer underlying the site may be contaminated. The drinking water potentially is
threatened by the site contamination. People who come in direct contact with the
tar-like substance oozing from the ground may be at risk.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a single long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
19
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: Redwing removed some of the contaminated soil to a federally
approved hazardous waste facility. The company periodically inspects the site and
removes any tar rising to the surface.
Entire Site: Redwing Carriers, under EPA monitoring, is conducting a study to
determine the extent of contamination at the site. Once the study is completed,
scheduled for 1992, various alternatives for cleaning up the area will be
recommended. Redwing will continue to remove any tar oozing to the surface while the site
study is underway.
Site Facts: The EPA sent notice letters in 1990 to the potentially responsible parties,
requiring a study to determine the nature and extent of the contamination. An Administrative
Order on Consent with the potentially responsible parties requires them to conduct cleanup
activities whenever the tar-like material seeps to the surface of the complex.
Environmental Progress
By continually removing the contaminated leachate from the site, the potential for exposure
to hazardous materials at the Redwing Carriers, Inc. (Saraland) site is reduced while further
investigations and cleanup activities are taking place.
Site Repository
Saraland Public Library, 111 Saraland Loop Road, Saraland, AL 36571
March 1992 20 REDWING CARRIERS, INC. (SARALAND)
-------
STAUFFER CHE
CO. (COLD CRE
PLANT)
ALABAMA
EPA ID# ALD095688875
EPA REGION 4
Mobile County
Twenty miles north of Mobile
Other Names:
ICI Plant
Site Description
The 947-acre Stauffer Chemical Company's Cold Creek Plant manufactures pesticides and
formerly operated two on-site landfills to dispose of process wastes including liquids and solids
contaminated with pesticides, solvents, and heavy metals. Stauffer reports that the two
landfills are lined with natural clay and are covered with plastic caps. The landfills are graded,
planted with grass, and fenced. Stauffer maintains monitoring wells at the two landfills. This
site and Stauffer Le Moyne Plant, another nearby NPL site, are being treated in a combined
effort. There are several sparsely populated rural communities within a few miles of the site.
Also, there are 20 residential drinking water supply wells within 2 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
The groundwater and soil are contaminated with various volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) including carbon disulfide. Sediments are polluted with heavy
metals including mercury. Accidentally ingesting or coming in direct contact with
contaminated groundwater and soil pose a health hazard to individuals. Also,
exposure to mercury-contaminated Cold Creek Swamp sediment and fish may pose
a significant threat to public health.
21
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of
groundwater, solid waste management units, and Cold Creek Swamp.
Response Action Status
Groundwater: In 1989, the EPA selected the following remedy to clean up the
site: modify the existing groundwater interception and treatment system; install
additional monitoring and installation wells; continue extracting groundwater from
the surface aquifer through existing and additional intercept wells; monitor groundwater
movement at the site to determine the adequacy of the remedial action; conduct treatability
studies as appropriate for source treatment; and decommission wells no longer needed for
monitoring. Akzo Chemicals and ICI Americas jointly will clean up the site. Designs intended
to modify the groundwater treatment unit were started by the potentially responsible parties
in 1990 and are expected to be completed in 1992. The existing groundwater treatment
system has been in operation since 1989.
Solid Waste Management Units: The solid waste management units are active,
federally regulated waste facilities. An investigation to determine the nature and
extent of contamination in these units is being conducted by the potentially
responsible parties and is expected to be completed in 1994.
Cold Creek Swamp: The parties potentially responsible for the site
contamination were asked to perform an investigation into the nature and extent
of contamination at Cold Creek Swamp and to determine long-term remedial
actions for cleanup. The study began in 1990 and is expected to be completed in 1993, after
which final cleanup remedies will be selected.
Site Facts: There is concern that an adjacent rayon manufacturer uses contaminated
groundwater in the manufacturing process.
Environmental Progress
The plastic cap on the landfills and the fence have reduced the potential for exposure to
hazardous substances at the Stauffer Chemical Co. (Cold Creek Plant) while awaiting the
final cleanup actions.
Site Repository
Toulminville Public Library, 22318 St. Stephens Road, Mobile, AL 36613
March 1992 22 STAUFFER CHEMICAL CO.
(COLD CREEK PLANT)
-------
STAUFFER CHEM
CO. (LE MOYNE
PLANT)
ALABAMA
EPAID#ALD008161176
Site Description
EPA REGION 4
Mobile County
Twenty miles north of Mobile
Other Names:
Akzo Plant
Axis Plant
The Stauffer Chemical Company's Le Moyne Plant began operations in the early 1950s and
manufactured carbon disulfide. In 1964, the company produced chlorine and caustic soda,
using the mercury cell process. In 1974, the plant expanded again, producing additional
industrial inorganic compounds. During the 1950s and the 1960s, Stauffer used an on-site
landfill located east of the manufacturing facility, between the plant and the Mobile River.
Stauffer reported that the landfill contained drums of wastes that included organics, solvents,
heavy metals, acids, and bases. The landfill was constructed in native clay and covered with a
vinyl plastic cap. Topsoil was spread over the cap, and the area was revegetated and fenced.
Wastes were held in clay-lined ponds on site and then discharged to Cold Creek Swamp.
Groundwater, sediments, and surface water around the site are contaminated. The Stauffer
Le Moyne Plant and the Stauffer Cold Creek Plant, another nearby NPL site, are being
treated in a combined effort. The site is located in an industrial area where approximately
1,600 people are employed by all the industrial facilities in the area. There are a few sparsely
populated rural communities within a few miles of the site. Groundwater is the sole source of
drinking water in this area, and approximately 4,000 people, including the employees of the
local industries and the residents of the Axis community, are served by wells within 3 miles of
the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater in the vicinity of the landfill and ponds is contaminated with
various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including carbon disulfide. Mercury
has been found in the sediments of the Cold Creek Swamp. Thiocyanates also
were found in sediments under nearby Halby Pond. People could be exposed to
the contaminants through direct contact or accidental ingestion and inhalation of
contaminated groundwater and sediments. Also, people could be exposed to
mercury by eating fish contaminated by Cold Creek Swamp.
23
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in four stages: initial actions and three long-term remedial phases
focusing on groundwater cleanup, cleanup of Cold Creek Swamp, and cleanup of the solid
waste management units.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: Three extraction wells, with an aeration pond and surface water
discharge, have been pumping and treating contaminated groundwater since 1980.
Groundwater: Stauffer Chemical assumed responsibility to study the nature and
the extent of the contamination in the groundwater and to conduct subsequent
cleanup activities. The study was completed in 1989. The following methods have
been selected to augment the existing groundwater cleanup at the site: modification of the
existing groundwater system; installation of additional monitoring and extraction wells;
extraction of groundwater from the surface aquifer through existing and additional intercept
wells; monitoring of groundwater on site to determine the adequacy of the cleanup action;
performance of studies to determine the best approach for treating the source of
contamination; and decommissioning of wells no longer needed for monitoring. Designs of the
modified groundwater treatment unit are expected to be completed by late 1992. Meanwhile,
the existing treatment system continues to operate.
Cold Creek Swamp: The parties potentially responsible for the site
contamination were asked to perform an investigation to determine the nature and
extent of contamination at Cold Creek Swamp and to identify long-term remedial
actions for cleanup. The investigation, started in 1990, is planned to be completed in 1993.
After this investigation is complete, final cleanup remedies will be selected.
Solid Waste Management Units: The solid waste management units are active
federally regulated waste facilities. An investigation to determine the nature and
extent of contamination in the units began in 1990. Additional studies will be
performed on the source units (disposal ponds), following the design of the modified
groundwater treatment unit.
Site Facts: An Administrative Order on Consent was signed between the EPA and Stauffer
Chemical in 1986 to investigate the site in an effort to determine the nature and extent of
the contamination. Stauffer Chemical is responsible for the studies. In 1990, a Consent
Decree was entered requiring the potentially responsible parties to design and implement the
selected groundwater remedy. There is concern that a rayon manufacturer adjacent to the
Stauffer Chemical plants may be using contaminated groundwater in processing operations.
March 1992 24 STAUFFER CHEMICAL CO.
(LE MOYNE PLANT)
-------
Environmental Progress
Extraction wells have been pumping contaminated groundwater since 1980, reducing the
potential for exposure to hazardous materials while further cleanup activities continue at the
Stauffer Chemical Co. (Le Moyne Plant) site.
Site Repository
Toulminville Public Library, 22318 St. Stephens Road, Mobile, AL 36613
STAUFFER CHEMICAL CO.
(LE MOYNE PLANT)
25
March 1992
-------
T.H. AGRICULTU
& NUTRITION
COMPANY
(MONTGOMERY
PLANT)
ALABAMA
EPA ID# ALD007454085
Site Description
EPA REGION 4
Montgomery County
Downtown Montgomery
The 11 1/2-acre T.H. Agricultural & Nutrition Company (Montgomery Plant) site previously
was used to distribute pesticides. The southern boundary of the site was extended by
approximately 5 acres. A former pesticide formulation operation owned by Pennwait (now
Atochem North America, Inc.) was located on this adjacent 4-acre plot. Releases from this
property may have affected the former T.H. Agriculture property. During the 1970s and,
possibly, the late 1960s, the company operated under the name of Thomson-Hayward
Chemical Company, but this company closed in 1980. The company changed its name to T.H.
Agricultural & Nutrition Company in 1981. When the plant operated, insecticides, herbicides,
and other chemical wastes were buried in pits and trenches covering 1 acre of the plant site.
The City of Montgomery's water supply division has 21 wells within 3 miles of the site, and
this system serves approximately 250,000 people.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Lindane was discovered in the groundwater on and off the site. Drinking
contaminated groundwater is a potential health hazard to the nearby residents.
26
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1981, T.H. Agricultural & Nutrition Company voluntarily
agreed to remove 2,900 cubic yards of contaminated soil to a federally approved
facility.
Entire Site: In 1991, the parties potentially responsible for the site contamination
began an investigation to evaluate the nature and extent of contamination and to
determine remedies for site cleanup. Cleanup activities will begin upon completion
of the investigation in 1993.
Site Facts: An Administrative Order on Consent was signed between the EPA and Atochem
North America, Inc. in March 1991, requiring the company to conduct site investigations. In
addition, a 700,000 gallon-lined-lagoon was closed in cooperation with the Alabama
Department of Environmental Management on the adjacent 5 acres in 1978.
Environmental Progress
The removal of contaminated soil has reduced the potential for exposure to hazardous
materials at the T.H. Agricultural & Nutrition Company (Montgomery Plant) site while
investigations are taking place.
Site Repository
Not established.
T.H. AGRICULTURAL & NUTRITION COMPANY
(MONTGOMERY PLANT)
27
March 1992
-------
TRIANA/
TENNESSEE
RIVER
ALABAMA
EPA ID#ALD983166299
Site Description
EPA REGION 4
Madison County
Triana, near Huntsville
Other Names:
USA Redstone Arsenal
Olin Corp/Huntsville Plant
US Army Missile Command
Triana (Redstone) Arsenal
The Triana/Tennessee River site occupies approximately 1,400 acres, near the small town of
Triana. It is situated along 20 miles of the Tennessee River and its tributaries. The pesticide
DDT was manufactured for commercial use by a lessee, Olin Corp., at Redstone Arsenal
(RSA) in Huntsville between 1947 and 1970. The manufacturing, handling, and disposal
practices at the facility led to the discharge of DDT residues through RSA's drainage system
into the Huntsville Spring Branch-Indian Creek tributary system, which enters the Tennessee
River. An estimated 475 tons of DDT residues accumulated in the sediment of the tributary
system. The plant was closed and demolished in 1971. The area surrounding the site is rural
and has a population of 600 residents. The community has been affected by the
contamination because the residents depend on, to some extent, locally caught fish for food.
Until the introduction of a water supply system in 1967, residents used water from Indian
Creek and the Tennessee River.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/23/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Huntsville Spring Branch-Indian Creek and the Tennessee River have shown signs
of contamination with DDT. Eating fish from contaminated rivers, creeks, and
streams could be harmful to the health of the public. Drinking water from these
sources also may be a potential health threat. To a lesser extent, coming in direct
contact with the sediments from the contaminated river, creek, or tributaries may
be harmful. The contamination of the Tennessee River and its tributaries has
affected the recreational use of the area. The Huntsville Spring Branch flows
through the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, and contamination threatens the wildlife
there.
28
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The Olin Corporation submitted its final engineering design for
cleaning up the site in 1986 and began construction on the initial cleanup phase.
All construction was completed in 1987. The methods that were used to clean up
the site included: bypassing, and burying on site, the most heavily contaminated channel area;
and continuing programs for fish and water studies and investigations of the movement of
contaminants through the water and the fish. Fish, water, and sediment monitoring will
continue in order to determine progress made at the site. Targeted cleanup standards are
scheduled to be met in 1998. The first year's monitoring showed reduced levels of DDT in
selected fish species. Average DDT concentrations in the water column are significantly lower
than original conditions throughout the Huntsville Spring Branch-Indian Creek system. In
the 1990 data, DDT concentrations in fish decreased by a range of 39 percent to 90 percent,
with an average of a 72 percent decrease in contaminant concentrations from original
conditions.
Site Facts: In 1983, Olin and the EPA settled on Olin's responsibility to conduct a study of
the site and on the final design for its cleanup. The settlement included a Consent Decree
that required Olin to develop and carry out a remedial plan to isolate DDT from the nearby
population and environment. The final remedy plan, now being implemented, was submitted
and reviewed by a panel consisting of representatives from the EPA, the Tennessee Valley
Authority, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Department of the Army, the Alabama
Department of Environmental Management, and the Olin Corporation. This panel is
overseeing Olin's cleanup action until it meets the performance standards.
Environmental Progress
Initial cleanup activities have been completed at the Triana/Tennessee River site. The parties
potentially responsible for site contamination, under EPA guidance, will continue to oversee
monitoring activities at the site and ensure the long-term effectiveness of the treatment
methods used.
Site Repository
Town Hall, Town of Triana, 640 Sixth Street, Madison, AL 35758
TRIANA/ TENNESSEE RIVER 29 March 1992
-------
GLOSSARY
Terms Used in the NPL Book
This glossary defines terms used throughout the NPL Volumes. The terms and
abbreviations contained in this glossary apply specifically to work performed
under the Superfund program in the context of hazardous waste management. These
terms may have other meanings when used in a different context. A table of common
toxic chemicals found at NPL sites, their sources, and their potential threats is located
on page G-15
Acids: Substances, characterized by low pH
(less than 7.0), that are used in chemical manu-
facturing. Acids in high concentration can be
very corrosive and react with many inorganic
and organic substances. These reactions possi-
bly may create toxic compounds or release
heavy metal contaminants that remain in the
environment long after the acid is neutralized.
Administrative Order On Consent: A
legal and enforceable agreement between the
EPA and the parties potentially responsible for
site contamination. Under the terms of the
Order, the potentially responsible parties (PRPs)
agree to perform or pay for site studies or
cleanups. It also describes the oversight rules,
responsibilities, and enforcement options that
the government may exercise in the event of
non-compliance by potentially responsible
parties. This Order is signed by PRPs and the
government; it does not require approval by a
judge.
Administrative Order [Unilateral]: A
legally binding document issued by the EPA,
directing the parties potentially responsible to
perform site cleanups or studies (generally, the
EPA does not issue Unilateral Orders for site
studies). This type of Order is not signed by the
PRPs and does not require approval by a judge.
Aeration: A process that promotes breakdown
of contaminants in soil or water by exposing
them to air.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Dis-
ease Registry (ATSDR): The Federal
agency within the U.S. Public Health Service
charged with carrying out the health-related
responsibilities of CERCLA.
Air Stripping: A process whereby volatile
organic chemicals (VOCs) are removed from
contaminated material by forcing a stream of air
through the contaminated material in a pressur-
ized vessel. The contaminants are evaporated
into the air stream. The air may be further
treated before it is released into the atmosphere.
Ambient Air: Any unconfined part of the
atmosphere. Refers to the air that may be
inhaled by workers or residents in the vicinity of
contaminated air sources.
Applicable or Relevant and Appropriate
Requirements (ARARs): Federal, State, or
local laws which apply to Superfund activities at
NPL sites. Both emergency and long-term
actions must comply with these laws or provide
sound reasons for allowing a waiver. ARARs
must be identified for each site relative to the
characteristics of the site, the substances found
at the site, or the cleanup alternatives being
considered for the site.
G-1
-------
GLOSSARY
Aquifer: An underground layer of rock, sand,
or gravel capable of storing water within cracks
and pore spaces, or between grains. When
water contained within an aquifer is of sufficient
quantity and quality, it can be tapped and used
for drinking or other purposes. The water
contained in the aquifer is called groundwater.
A "sole source aquifer" supplies 50 percent or
more of the drinking water of an area.
Artesian (Well): A well made by drilling into
the earth until water is reached, which, due to
internal pressure, flows up like a fountain.
Asbestos: A mineral fiber that can pollute air
or water and is known to cause cancer or
asbestosis when inhaled.
Attenuation: The naturally occurring process
by which a compound is reduced in concentra-
tion over time through adsorption, degradation,
dilution, or transformation.
Background Level: The amount of a sub-
stance typically found in the air, water, or soil
from natural, as opposed to human, sources.
Baghouse Dust: Dust accumulated in
removing particulates from the air by passing it
through cloth bags in an enclosure.
Bases: Substances characterized by high pH
(greater than 7.0), which tend to be corrosive in
chemical reactions. When bases are mixed with
acids, they neutralize each other, forming salts.
Berm: A ledge, wall, or a mound of earth used
to prevent the migration of contaminants.
Bioaccumulate: The process by which some
contaminants or toxic chemicals gradually
collect and increase in concentration in living
tissue, such as in plants, fish, or people, as they
breathe contaminated air, drink contaminated
water, or eat contaminated food.
Biological Treatment: The use of bacteria
or other microbial organisms to break down
toxic organic materials into carbon dioxide and
water.
Bioremediation: A cleanup process using
naturally occurring or specially cultivated
microorganisms to digest contaminants and
break them down into non-hazardous compo-
nents.
Bog: A type of wetland that is covered with
peat moss deposits. Bogs depend primarily on
moisture from the air for their water source, are
usually acidic, and are rich in plant residue [see
Wetland].
Boom: A floating device used to contain oil
floating on a body of water or to restrict the
potential overflow of waste liquids from
containment structures.
Borehole: A hole that is drilled into the
ground and used to sample soil or ground-water.
Borrow Pit: An excavated area where soil,
sand, or gravel has been dug up for use else-
where.
Cap: A layer of material, such as clay or a
synthetic material, used to prevent rainwater
from penetrating and spreading contaminated
materials. The surface of the cap generally is
mounded or sloped so water will drain off.
Carbon Adsorption: A treatment system in
which contaminants are removed from ground-
water and surface water by forcing water
through tanks containing activated carbon, a
specially treated material that attracts and holds
or retains contaminants.
Carbon DJSUlfide: A degreasing agent
formerly used extensively for parts washing.
This compound has both inorganic and organic
G-2
-------
GLOSSARY
properties, which increase cleaning efficiency.
However, these properties also cause chemical
reactions that increase the hazard to human
health and the environment.
Carbon Treatment: [see Carbon Adsorp-
tion].
Cell: In solid waste disposal, one of a series of
holes in a landfill where waste is dumped,
compacted, and covered with layers of dirt.
CERCLA: [see Comprehensive Environmen-
tal Response, Compensation, and Liability Act].
Characterization: The sampling, monitoring,
and analysis of a site to determine the extent and
nature of toxic releases. Characterization
provides the basis for acquiring the necessary
technical information to develop, screen, ana-
lyze, and select appropriate cleanup techniques.
Chemical Fixation: The use of chemicals to
bind contaminants, thereby reducing the poten-
tial for leaching or other movement.
Chromated Copper Arsenate: An insecti-
cide/herbicide formed from salts of three toxic
metals: copper, chromium, and arsenic. This
salt is used extensively as a wood preservative
in pressure-treating operations. It is highly toxic
and water-soluble, making it a relatively mobile
contaminant in the environment
Cleanup: Actions taken to eliminate a release
or threat of release of a hazardous substance.
The term "cleanup" sometimes is used inter-
changeably with the terms remedial action,
removal action, response action, or corrective
action.
Closure: The process by which a landfill stops
accepting wastes and is shut down under Federal
guidelines that ensure the protection of the
public and the environment.
Comment Period: A specific interval during
which the public can review and comment on
various documents and EPA actions related to
site cleanup. For example, a comment period is
provided when the EPA proposes to add sites to
the NPL. Also, there is minimum 3-week
comment period for community members to
review and comment on the remedy proposed to
clean up a site.
Community Relations: The EPA effort to
establish and maintain two-way communication
with the public. The goals of community
relations programs include creating an under-
standing of EPA programs and related actions,
assuring public input into decision-making
processes related to affected communities, and
making certain that the Agency is aware of, and
responsive to, public concerns. Specific com-
munity relations activities are required in
relation to Superfund cleanup actions [see
Comment Period].
Comprehensive Environmental Re-
sponse, Compensation, and Liability
Act (CERCLA): Congress enacted the
CERCLA, known as Superfund, in 1980 to
respond directly to hazardous waste problems
that may pose a threat to the public health and
the environment. The EPA administers the
Superfund program.
Confluence: The place where two bodies of
water, such as streams or rivers, come together.
Confined Aquifer: An aquifer in which
groundwater is confined under pressure that is
significantly greater than atmospheric pressure.
G-3
-------
GLOSSARY
Consent Decree: A legal document, ap-
proved and issued by a judge, formalizing an
agreement between the EPA and the parties
potentially responsible for site contamination.
The decree describes cleanup actions that the
potentially responsible parties are required to
perform, or the costs incurred by the govern-
ment that the parties will reimburse, and the
roles, responsibilities, and enforcement options
that the government may exercise in the event of
non-compliance by potentially responsible
parties. If a settlement between the EPA and a
potentially responsible party includes cleanup
actions, it must be in the form of a Consent
Decree. A Consent Decree is subject to a public
comment period.
Consent Order: [see Administrative Order
on Consent].
Containment: The process of enclosing or
containing hazardous substances in a structure,
typically in a pond or a lagoon, to prevent the
migration of contaminants into the environment.
Contaminant: Any physical, chemical,
biological, or radiological material or substance
whose quantity, location, or nature produces
undesirable health or environmental effects.
Contingency Plan: A document setting
out an organized, planned, and coordinated
course of action to be followed in case of a
fire, explosion, or other accident that releases
toxic chemicals, hazardous wastes, or radioac-
tive materials into the environment.
Cooperative Agreement: A contract
between the EPA and the States, wherein a State
agrees to manage or monitor certain site cleanup
responsibilities and other activities on a cost-
sharing basis.
Cost Recovery: A legal process by which
potentially responsible parties can be required
to pay back the Superfund program for money
it spends on any cleanup actions [see Poten-
tially Responsible Parties].
Cover: Vegetation or other material placed
over a landfill or other waste material. It can
be designed to reduce movement of water into
the waste and to prevent erosion that could
cause the movement of contaminants.
Creosotes: Chemicals used in wood pre-
serving operations and produced by distilla-
tion of tar, including polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons and polynuclear aromatic
hydrocarbons [see PAHs and PNAs]. Con-
taminating sediments, soils, and surface
water, creosotes may cause skin ulcerations
and cancer through prolonged exposure.
Culvert: A pipe used for drainage under a
road, railroad track, path, or through an embank-
ment.
Decommission: To revoke a license to
operate and take out of service.
Degradation: The process by which a chemi-
cal is reduced to a less complex form.
Degrease: To remove grease from wastes,
soils, or chemicals, usually using solvents.
Deletion: A site is eligible for deletion from
the NPL when Superfund response actions at the
site are complete. A site is deleted from the
NPL when a notice is published in the Federal
Register.
De minimis: This legal phrase pertains to
settlements with parties who contributed small
amounts of hazardous waste to a site. This
process allows the EPA to settle with small, or
de minimis contributors, as a single group rather
than as individuals, saving time, money, and
effort.
De water: To remove water from wastes, soils,
or chemicals.
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GLOSSARY
Dike: A low wall that can act as a barrier to
prevent a spill from spreading.
Dioxin: An organic chemical by-product of
pesticide manufacture which is known to be one
of the most toxic man-made chemicals.
Disposal: Final placement or destruction of
toxic, radioactive, or other wastes; surplus or
banned pesticides or other chemicals; polluted
soils; and drums containing hazardous materials.
Disposal may be accomplished through the use
of approved secure landfills, surface impound-
ments, land farming, deep well injection, or
incineration.
Down gradient: A downward hydrologic
slope that causes groundwater to move toward
lower elevations. Therefore, wells downgradi-
ent of a contaminated groundwater source are
prone to receiving pollutants.
Ecological Assessment: A study of the
impact of man-made or natural activity on living
creatures and their environment
Effluent: Wastewater, treated or untreated,
that flows out of a treatment plant, sewer, or
industrial outfall. Generally refers to wastes
discharged into surface waters.
Emission: Pollution discharged into the
atmosphere from smokestacks, other vents, and
surface areas of commercial or industrial facili-
ties.
Emulsifiers: Substances that help in mixing
materials that do not normally mix; e.g., oil and
water.
Endangerment Assessment: A study
conducted to determine the risks posed to public
health or the environment by contamination at
NPL sites. The EPA or the State conducts the
study when a legal action is to be taken to direct
the potentially responsible parties to clean up a
site or pay for the cleanup. An endangerment
assessment supplements an investigation of the
site hazards.
Enforcement: EPA, State, or local legal
actions taken against parties to facilitate
settlements; to compel compliance with laws,
rules, regulations, or agreements; or to obtain
penalties or criminal sanctions for violations.
Enforcement procedures may vary, depending
on the specific requirements of different
environmental laws and related regulatory
requirements. Under CERCLA, for example,
the EPA will seek to require potentially
responsible parties to clean up a Superfund
site or pay for the cleanup [see Cost Recov-
ery].
Erosion: The wearing away of land surface
by wind or water. Erosion occurs naturally
from weather or surface runoff, but can be
intensified by such land-related practices as
fanning, residential or industrial develop-
ment, road building, or timber-cutting. Ero-
sion may spread surface contamination to off-
site locations.
Estuary (estuarine): Areas where fresh
water from rivers and salt water from
nearshore ocean waters are mixed. These
areas may include bays, mouths of rivers, salt
marshes, and lagoons. These water ecosys-
tems shelter and feed marine life, birds, and
wildlife.
Evaporation Ponds: Areas where sewage
sludge or other watery wastes are dumped and
allowed to dry out.
Feasibility Study: The analysis of the
potential cleanup alternatives for a site. The
feasibility study usually starts as soon as the
remedial investigation is underway. In this
volume, the feasibility study is referred to as a
site study [see also Remedial Investigation].
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GLOSSARY
Filtration: A treatment process for remov-
ing solid (participate) matter from water by
passing the water through sand, activated
carbon, or a man-made filter. The process is
often used to remove particles that contain
contaminants.
Flood Plain: An area along a river, formed
from sediment deposited by floods. Flood
plains periodically are innundated by natural
floods, which can spread contamination.
Flue Gas: The air that is emitted from a
chimney after combustion in the burner
occurs. The gas can include nitrogen oxides,
carbon oxides, water vapor, sulfur oxides,
particles, and many chemical pollutants.
Fly Ash: Non-combustible residue that results
from the combustion of flue gases. It can
include nitrogen oxides, carbon oxides, water
vapor, sulfur oxides, as well as many other
chemical pollutants.
French Drain System: A crushed rock drain
system constructed of perforated pipes, which is
used to drain and disperse wastewater.
Gasification (coal): The conversion of soft
coal into gas for use as a fuel.
General Notice Letter: [See Notice Letter].
Generator: A facility that emits pollutants
into the air or releases hazardous wastes into
water or soil.
Good Faith Offer: A voluntary offer, gener-
ally in response to a Special Notice letter, made
by a potentially responsible party, consisting of
a written proposal demonstrating a potentially
responsible party's qualifications and willing-
ness to perform a site study or cleanup.
Groundwater: Water that fills pores in soils
or openings in rocks to the point of saturation.
In aquifers, groundwater occurs in sufficient
quantities for use as drinking and irrigation
water and other purposes.
Groundwater Quality Assessment: The
process of analyzing the chemical characteris-
tics of groundwater to determine whether any
hazardous materials exist.
Halogens: Reactive non-metals, such as
chlorine and bromine. Halogens are very
good oxidizing agents and, therefore, have
many industrial uses. They are rarely found
by themselves; however, many chemicals
such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
some volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
and dioxin are reactive because of the pres-
ence of halogens.
Hazard Ranking System (HRS): The
principal screening tool used by the EPA to
evaluate relative risks to public health and the
environment associated with abandoned or
uncontrolled hazardous waste sites. The HRS
calculates a score based on the potential of
hazardous substances spreading from the site
through the air, surface water, or groundwater
and on other factors such as nearby popula-
tion. The HRS score is the primary factor in
deciding if the site should be on the NPL.
Hazardous Waste: By-products of society
that can pose a substantial present or potential
hazard to human health and the environment
when improperly managed. Hazardous waste
possesses at least one of four characteristics
(ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxic-
ity), or appears on special EPA lists.
Heavy Metals: Metallic elements with high
atomic weights, such as arsenic, lead, mercury,
and cadmium. Heavy metals are very hazardous
even at low concentrations and tend to accumu-
late in the food chain.
Herbicide: A chemical pesticide designed to
control or destroy plants, weeds, or grasses.
G-6
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GLOSSARY
Hot Spot: An area or vicinity of a site contain-
ing exceptionally high levels of contamination.
Hydrocarbons: Chemical compounds that
consist entirely of hydrogen and carbon.
Hydrology: The properties, distribution, and
circulation of water.
Hydrogeology: The geology of groundwater,
with particular emphasis on the chemistry and
movement of water.
Impoundment: A body of water or sludge
confined by a dam, dike, floodgate, or other
barrier.
Incineration: A group of treatment technolo-
gies involving destruction of waste by controlled
burning at high temperatures, e.g., burning
sludge to reduce the remaining residues to a
non-burnable ash that can be disposed of safely
on land, in some waters, or in underground
locations.
Infiltration: The movement of water or
other liquid down through soil from precipita-
tion (rain or snow) or from application of
wastewater to the land surface.
Influent: Water, wastewater, or other liquid
flowing into a reservoir, basin, or treatment
plant.
Injection Well: A well into which waste
fluids are placed, under pressure, for purposes
of disposal.
Inorganic Chemicals: Chemical sub-
stances of mineral origin, not of basic carbon
structure.
Installation Restoration Program: The
specially funded program established in 1978
under which the Department of Defense has
been identifying and evaluating its hazardous
waste sites and controlling the migration of
hazardous contaminants from those sites.
Intake: The source from where a water supply
is drawn, such as from a river or water body.
Interagency Agreement: A written agree-
ment between the EPA and a Federal agency
that has the lead for site cleanup activities,
setting forth the roles and responsibilities of the
agencies for performing and overseeing the
activities. States often are parties to interagency
agreements.
Interim (Permit) Status: Conditions under
which hazardous waste treatment, storage,
and disposal facilities, that were operating
when regulations under the RCRA became
final in 1980, are temporarily allowed by the
EPA to continue to operate while awaiting
denial or issuance of a permanent permit. The
facility must comply with certain regulations
to maintain interim status.
Lagoon: A shallow pond or liquid waste
containment structure. Lagoons typically are
used for the storage of wastewaters, sludges,
liquid wastes, or spent nuclear fuel.
Landfarm: To apply waste to land or incor-
porate waste into the surface soil, such as
fertilizer or soil conditioner. This practice
commonly is used for disposal of composted
wastes and sludges.
Landfill: A disposal facility where waste is
placed in or on land. Sanitary landfills are
disposal sites for non-hazardous solid wastes.
The waste is spread in layers, compacted to the
smallest practical volume, and covered with soil
at the end of each operating day. Secure chemi-
cal landfills are disposal sites for hazardous
waste. They are designed to minimize the
chance of release of hazardous substances into
the environment [see Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act].
Leach, Leaching [v.t.]: The process by
which soluble chemical components are dis-
solved and carried through soil by water or
some other percolating liquid.
G-7
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GLOSSARY
Leachate [n]: The liquid that trickles through
or drains from waste, carrying soluble compo-
nents from the waste.
Leachate Collection System: A system
that gathers liquid that has leaked into a landfill
or other waste disposal area and pumps it to the
surface for treatment.
Liner: A relatively impermeable barrier
designed to prevent leachate (waste residue)
from leaking from a landfill. Liner materials
include plastic and dense clay.
Long-term Remedial Phase: Distinct,
often incremental, steps that are taken to solve
site pollution problems. Depending on the
complexity, site cleanup activities can be
separated into several of these phases.
Long-term Response Action: An action
which requires a continuous period of on-site
activity before cleanup goals are achieved.
These actions typically include the extraction
and treatment of groundwater and monitoring
actions.
Marsh: A type of wetland that does not
contain peat moss deposits and is dominated by
vegetation. Marshes may be either fresh or
saltwater and tidal or non-tidal [see Wetland].
Migration: The movement of oil, gas, con-
taminants, water, or other liquids through porous
and permeable soils or rock.
Mill Tailings: [See Mine Tailings].
Mine Tailings: A fine, sandy residue left from
mining operations. Tailings often contain high
concentrations of lead, uranium, and arsenic or
other heavy metals.
Mitigation: Actions taken to improve site
conditions by limiting, reducing, or controlling
toxicity and contamination sources.
Modeling: A technique using a mathematical
or physical representation of a system or theory
that tests the effects that changes on system
components have on the overall performance of
the system.
Monitoring Wells: Special wells drilled at
specific locations within, or surrounding, a
hazardous waste site where groundwater can be
sampled at selected depths and studied to obtain
such information as the direction in which
groundwater flows and the types and amounts of
contaminates present.
National Priorities List (NPL): The
EPA's list of the most serious uncontrolled or
abandoned hazardous waste sites identified
for possible long-term cleanup under Super-
fund. The EPA is required to update the NPL
at least once a year.
Natural Attenuation: [See Attenuation].
Neutrals: Organic compounds that have a
relatively neutral pH, complex structure and,
due to their organic bases, are easily absorbed
into the environment. Water is the most
commonly known neutral, however, naphtha-
lene, pyrene, and trichlorobenzene also are
examples of neutrals.
Nitroaromatics: Common components of
explosive materials, which will explode if
activated by very high temperatures or pres-
sures; 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) is a
nitroaromatic.
Notice Letter: A General Notice Letter
notifies the parties potentially responsible for
site contamination of their possible liability. A
Special Notice Letter begins a 60-day formal
period of negotiation during which the EPA is
not allowed to start work at a site or initiate
enforcement actions against potentially respon-
sible parties, although the EPA may undertake
certain investigatory and planning activities.
G-8
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GLOSSARY
The 60-day period may be extended if the EPA
receives a good faith offer from the PRPs
within that period. [See also Good Faith Offer].
On-Scene Coordinator (OSC): The
predesignated EPA, Coast Guard, or Depart-
ment of Defense official who coordinates and
directs Superfund removal actions or Clean
Water Act oil- or hazardous-spill corrective
actions.
Operation and Maintenance: Activities
conducted at a site after a cleanup action is
completed to ensure that the cleanup or
containment system is functioning properly.
Organic Chemicals/Compounds:
Chemical substances containing mainly
carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Outfall: The place where wastewater is
discharged into receiving waters.
Overpacking: Process used for isolating
large volumes of waste by jacketing or encap-
sulating waste to prevent further spread or
leakage of contaminating materials. Leaking
drums may be contained within oversized
barrels as an interim measure prior to removal
and final disposal.
Pentachlorophenol (PCP): A synthetic,
modified petrochemical that may be used as a
wood preservative because of its toxicity to
termites and fungi. It is a common component
of creosotes and can cause cancer.
Perched (groundwater): Groundwater
separated from another underlying body of
groundwater by a confining layer, often clay or
rock.
Percolation: The downward flow or filtering
of water or other liquids through subsurface
rock or soil layers, usually continuing down-
ward to groundwater.
Pesticide: A substance or mixture of sub-
stances intended to prevent, destroy, or repel any
pest. If misused, pesticides can accumulate in
the foodchain and contaminate the environment.
Petrochemicals: Chemical substances
produced from petroleum in refinery operations
and as fuel oil residues. These include
fluoranthene, chrysene, mineral spirits, and
refined oils. Petrochemicals are the bases from
which volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
plastics, and many pesticides are made. These
chemical substances often are toxic to humans
and the environment.
Phenols: Organic compounds that are used in
plastics manufacturing and are by-products of
petroleum refining, tanning, textile, dye, and
resin manufacturing. Phenols are highly poison-
ous.
Physical Chemical Separation: The
treatment process of adding a chemical to a
substance to separate the compounds for further
treatment or disposal.
Pilot Testing: A small-scale test of a pro-
posed treatment system in the field to determine
its ability to clean up specific contaminants.
Plugging: The process of stopping the flow of
water, oil, or gas into or out of the ground
through a borehole or well penetrating the
ground.
Plume: A body of contaminated groundwater
flowing from a specific source. The movement
of the groundwater is influenced by such factors
as local groundwater flow patterns, the character
of the aquifer in which groundwater is con-
tained, and the density of contaminants [see
Migration].
Pollution: Generally, the presence of matter
or energy whose nature, location, or quantity
produces undesired health or environmental
effects.
G-9
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GLOSSARY
Poly cyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons or
Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs):
PAHs, such as pyrene, are a group of highly
reactive organic compounds found in motor oil.
They are a common component of creosotes and
can cause cancer.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): A
group of toxic chemicals used for a variety of
purposes including electrical applications,
carbonless copy paper, adhesives, hydraulic
fluids, microscope immersion oils, and caulking
compounds. PCBs also are produced in certain
combustion processes. PCBs are extremely
persistent in the environment because they are
very stable, non-reactive, and highly heat
resistant. Chronic exposure to PCBs is believed
to cause liver damage. It also is known to
bioaccumulate in fatty tissues. PCB use and
sale was banned in 1979 with the passage of the
Toxic Substances Control Act
Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons
(PNAs): PNAs, such as naphthalene, and
biphenyls, are a group of highly reactive organic
compounds that are a common component of
creosotes, which can be carcinogenic.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): A plastic made
from the gaseous substance vinyl chloride. PVC
is used to make pipes, records, raincoats, and
floor tiles. Health risks from high concentra-
tions of vinyl chloride include liver cancer and
lung cancer, as well as cancer of the lymphatic
and nervous systems.
Potable Water: Water that is safe for drink-
ing and cooking.
Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs):
Parties associated with a Superfund site who
may be liable for the cost of remedying the
release of hazardous substances. This may
include owners or operators of the site or trans-
porters who disposed of materials at the site.
PRPs may admit liability, or liability may be
determined by a court of law. PRPs may sign a
Consent Decree or Administrative Order on
Consent to participate in the site cleanup without
admitting liability.
Precipitation: The removal of solids from
liquid waste so that the solid and liquid portions
can be disposed of safely; the removal of
particles from airborne emissions. Electro-
chemical precipitation is the use of an anode or
cathode to remove the hazardous chemicals.
Chemical precipitation involves the addition of
some substance to cause the solid portion to
separate.
Preliminary Assessment: The process of
collecting and reviewing available information
about a known or suspected waste site or release
to determine if a threat or potential threat exists.
Pump and Treat: A groundwater cleanup
technique involving the extracting of contami-
nated groundwater from the subsurface and the
removal of contaminants, using one of several
treatment technologies.
Radionuclides: Elements, including radium
and uranium-235 and -238, which break down
and produce radioactive substances due to their
unstable atomic structure. Some are man-made,
and others are naturally occurring in the envi-
ronment. Radon, the gaseous form of radium,
decays to form alpha particle radiation, which
cannot be absorbed through skin. However, it
can be inhaled, which allows alpha particles to
affect unprotected tissues directly and thus cause
cancer. Radiation also occurs naturally through
the breakdown of granite.
RCRA: [See Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act].
Recharge Area: A land area where rainwater
saturates the ground and soaks through the earth
to reach an aquifer.
G-10
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GLOSSARY
Record of Decision (ROD): A public
document that explains which cleanup
alternative(s) will be used to clean up sites
listed on the NPL. It is based on information
generated during the remedial investigation
and feasibility study and consideration of
public comments and community concerns.
Recovery Wells: Wells used to withdraw
contaminants or contaminated groundwater.
Recycle: The process of minimizing waste
generation by recovering usable products that
might otherwise become waste.
Remedial Action (RA): The actual con-
struction or implementation phase of a
Superfund site cleanup following the remedial
design [see Cleanup].
Remedial Design: A phase of site cleanup
where engineers design the technical specifi-
cations for cleanup remedies and technolo-
gies.
Remedial Investigation: An in-depth
study designed to gather the data necessary to
determine the nature and extent of contamina-
tion at a Superfund site, establish the criteria
for cleaning up the site, identify the prelimi-
nary alternatives for cleanup actions, and
support the technical and cost analyses of the
alternatives. The remedial investigation is
usually done with the feasibility study. In this
volume, the remedial investigation is referred
to as a site study [see also Feasibility Study].
Remedial Project Manager (RPM): The
EPA or State official responsible for oversee-
ing cleanup actions at the site.
Remedy Selection: The selection of the
final cleanup strategy for the site. At the few
sites where the EPA has determined that
initial response actions have eliminated site
contamination, or that any remaining con-
tamination will be naturally dispersed without
further cleanup activities, a "No Action"
remedy is selected [see Record of Decision].
Removal Action: Short-term immediate
actions taken to address releases of hazardous
substances [see Cleanup].
Residual: The amount of a pollutant re-
maining in the environment after a natural or
technological process has taken place, e.g.,
the sludge remaining after initial wastewater
treatment, or the particulates remaining in air
after the air passes through a scrubber.
Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA): A Federal law that established
a regulatory system to track hazardous sub-
stances from the time of generation to dis-
posal. The law requires safe and secure
procedures to be used in treating, transport-
ing, storing, and disposing of hazardous
substances. RCRA is designed to prevent
new, uncontrolled hazardous waste sites.
Retention Pond: A small body of liquid
used for disposing of wastes and containing
overflow from production facilities. Some-
times retention ponds are used to expand the
capacity of such structures as lagoons the
store waste.
Runoff: The discharge of water over land
into surface water. It can carry pollutants
from the air and land and spread contaminants
from its source.
Scrubber: An air pollution control device
that uses a spray of water or reactant or a dry
process to trap pollutants in emissions.
Sediment: The layer of soil, sand, and
minerals at the bottom of surface waters such
as streams, lakes, and rivers, that absorbs
contaminants.
G-11
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GLOSSARY
Seeps: Specific points where releases of
liquid, usually leachate, form from waste
disposal areas, particularly along the lower
edges of landfills.
Seepage Pits: A hole, shaft, or cavity in
the ground used for the storage of liquids,
usually in the form of leachate, from waste
disposal areas. The liquid gradually leaves
the pit by moving through the surrounding
soil.
Septage: Residue remaining in a septic tank
after the treatment process.
Sinkhole: A hollow depression in the land
surface in which drainage collects; associated
with underground caves and passages that
facilitate the movement of liquids.
Site Characterization: The technical pro-
cess used to evaluate the nature and extent of
environmental contamination, which is neces-
sary for choosing and designing cleanup mea-
sures and monitoring their effectiveness.
Site Inspection: The collection of informa-
tion from a hazardous waste site to determine
the extent and severity of hazards posed by the
site. It follows, and is more extensive than, a
preliminary assessment. The purpose is to
gather information necessary to score the site,
using the Hazard Ranking System, and to
determine if the site presents an immediate
threat that requires a prompt removal action.
Slag: The fused refuse or dross separated
from a metal in the process of smelting.
Sludge: Semi-solid residues from industrial
or water treatment processes that may be
contaminated with hazardous materials.
Slurry Wall: Barriers used to contain the flow
of contaminated groundwater or subsurface
liquids. Slurry walls are constructed by digging
a trench around a contaminated area and filling
the trench with an impermeable material that
prevents water from passing through it. The
groundwater or contaminated liquids trapped
within the area surrounded by the slurry wall
can be extracted and treated.
Smelter: A facility that melts or fuses ore,
often with an accompanying chemical change,
to separate the metal. Emissions from smelters
are known to cause pollution.
Soil Gas: Gaseous elements and compounds
that occur in the small spaces between par-
ticles of soil. Such gases can move through
or leave the soil or rock, depending on
changes in pressure.
Soil Vapor Extraction: A treatment
process that uses vacuum wells to remove
hazardous gases from soil.
Soil Washing: A water-based process for
mechanically scrubbing soils in-place to remove
undesirable materials. There are two ap-
proaches: dissolving or suspending them in the
wash solution for later treatment by conven-
tional methods, and concentrating them into a
smaller volume of soil through simple particle
size separation techniques [see Solvent Extrac-
tion].
Stabilization: The process of changing an
active substance into inert, harmless material,
or physical activities at a site that act to limit
the further spread of contamination without
actual reduction of toxicity.
Solidification/Stabilization: A chemical
or physical reduction of the mobility of
hazardous constituents. Mobility is reduced
through the binding of hazardous constituents
into a solid mass with low permeability and
resistance to leaching.
G-12
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GLOSSARY
Solvent: A substance capable of dissolving
another substance to form a solution. The
primary uses of industrial solvents are as
cleaners for degreasing, in paints, and in
Pharmaceuticals. Many solvents are flam-
mable and toxic to varying degrees.
Solvent Extraction: A means of separating
hazardous contaminants from soils, sludges,
and sediment, thereby reducing the volume of
the hazardous waste that must be treated. It
generally is used as one in a series of unit
operations. An organic chemical is used to
dissolve contaminants as opposed to water-
based compounds, which usually are used in
soil washing.
Sorption: The action of soaking up or
attracting substances. It is used in many
pollution control systems.
Special Notice Letter: [See Notice Let-
ter].
Still bottom: Residues left over from the
process of recovering spent solvents.
Stripping: A process used to remove volatile
contaminants from a substance [see Air Strip-
ping].
Sumps: A pit or tank that catches liquid
runoff for drainage or disposal.
Superfund: The program operated under the
legislative authority of the CERCLA and
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization
Act (SARA) to update and improve environ-
mental laws. The program has the authority to
respond directly to releases or threatened re-
leases of hazardous substances that may endan-
ger public health, welfare, or the environment
The "Superfund" is a trust fund that finances
cleanup actions at hazardous waste sites.
Surge Tanks: A holding structure used to
absorb irregularities in flow of liquids, including
liquid waste materials.
Swamp: A type of wetland that is dominated
by woody vegetation and does not accumulate
peat moss deposits. Swamps may be fresh or
saltwater and tidal or non-tidal [see Wetlands].
Thermal Treatment: The use of heat to
remove or destroy contaminants from soil.
Treatability Studies: Testing a treatment
method on contaminated groundwater, soil, etc.,
to determine whether and how well the method
will work.
Trichloroethylene (TCE): A stable, color-
less liquid with a low boiling point. TCE has
many industrial applications, including use as
a solvent and as a metal degreasing agent.
TCE may be toxic to people when inhaled,
ingested, or through skin contact and can
damage vital organs, especially the liver [see
Volatile Organic Compounds].
Unilateral [Administrative] Order: [see
Administrative Order].
Upgradient: An upward hydrologic slope;
demarks areas that are higher than contaminated
areas and, therefore, are not prone to contamina-
tion by the movement of polluted groundwater.
Vacuum Extraction: A technology used to
remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
from soils. Vacuum pumps are connected to a
series of wells drilled to just above the water
table. The wells are sealed tightly at the soil
surface, and the vacuum established in the soil
draws VOC-contaminated air from the soil
pores into the well, as fresh air is drawn down
from the surface of the soil.
G-13
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GLOSSARY
Vegetated Soil Cap: A cap constructed with
graded soils and seed for vegetative growth, to
prevent erosion [see Cap].
Vitrification: The process of electrically
melting wastes and soils or sludges to bind the
waste in a glassy, solid material more durable
than granite or marble and resistant to leaching.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):
VOCs are manufactured as secondary petro-
chemicals. They include light alcohols, acetone,
trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene,
dichloroethylene, benzene, vinyl chloride,
toluene, and methylene chloride. These poten-
tially toxic chemicals are used as solvents,
degreasers, paints, thinners, and fuels. Because
of their volatile nature, they readily evaporate
into the air, increasing the potential exposure to
humans. Due to their low water solubility,
environmental persistence, and widespread
industrial use, they are commonly found in soil
and groundwater.
Waste Treatment Plant: A facility that
uses a series of tanks, screens, filters, and
other treatment processes to remove pollut-
ants from water.
Wastewater: The spent or used water from
individual homes or industries.
Watershed: The land area that drains into a
stream or other water body.
Water Table: The upper surface of the
groundwater.
Weir: A barrier to divert water or other liquids.
Wetland: An area that is regularly saturated
by surface or groundwater and, under normal
circumstances, is capable of supporting
vegetation typically adapted for life in satu-
rated soil conditions. Wetlands are critical to
sustaining many species of fish and wildlife.
Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes,
and bogs. Wetlands may be either coastal or
inland. Coastal wetlands have salt or brackish
(a mixture of salt and fresh) water, and most
have tides, while inland wetlands are non-
tidal and freshwater. Coastal wetlands are an
integral component of estuaries.
Wildlife Refuge: An area designated for
the protection of wild animals, within which
hunting and fishing are either prohibited or
strictly controlled.
G-14
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GLOSSARY
Some Common Contaminants at NPL Sites
Contaminant
Category
Sources
Potential Health
ttireats*
Cofff pounds
Arsenic, Barium, Beryllium,
Cadmium, Cobalt, Copper,
Chromium, Lead, Manga-
nese, Mercury, Nickel,
Silver, Selenium, Zinc
Trichloroethylene (TCE),
Perchloroethylene (PCE),
Acetone, Benzene,
Ketone, Methyl chloride,
Toluene, Vinyl Chloride,
Dichlorethylene
Chlordane, DDT 4-4, DDE,
Heptachlor, Aldrin, Endrin,
Atrazine, Dieldrin, Toxa-
phene
Polyaromatic hydrocar-
bons (PAHs), Polynuclear
aromatics (PNAs),
Phenolic Tars, Pentachlo-
rophenol (PGP)
Radium-226, Radon,
Uranium-235, Uranium-
238
Electroplating, batteries,
paint pigments, photogra-
phy, smelting, thermom-
eters, fluorescent lights,
solvent recovery
Solvents and degreasers,
gasoline octane enhanc-
ers, oils and paints, dry
cleaning fluids, chemical
manufacturing.
Agricultural applications,
pesticide and herbicide
production
Electric transformers and
capacitors, insulators and
coolants, adhesives,
caulking compounds,
carbonless copy paper,
hydraulic fluids.
Wood preserving, fossil
fuel combustion
Mine tailings, radium
products, natural decay of
granites
Tumors, cancers, and kidney,
brain, neurological, bone and
liver damage
Cancers, kidney and liver
damage, impairment of the
nervous system resulting in
sleepiness and headaches,
leukemia
Various effects ranging from
nausea to nervous disorders.
Dioxin is a common by-product
of the manufacture of pesti-
cides and is both highly toxic
and a suspected carcinogen.
Cancer and liver damage.
Cancers and skin ulcerations
with prolonged exposure
Cancer
Sources:
Toxic Chemicals^-What They Are, How They Affect You (EPA, Region 5)
Glossary of Environmental Terms (EPA, 1988)
'The potential for risk due to these contaminants is linked to a number of factors; for example, the length and level of exposure
and environmental and health factors such as age.
*U.S. G.P.O.:1993-341-835:81022
G-15
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