vvEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Solid Waste And
Emergency Response
(5102G)
SUPERFUND:
EPA/540/R-93/013
December 1992
PB93-963214
Progress at
National
Priority
List Sites
INDIANA
1992 UPDATE
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
Publication #9200.5-7156
December 1992
NATIONAL PRIORITIES LIST SITES:
Indiana
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Office of Emergency & Remedial Response
Office of Program Management
Washington, DC 20460 Env/ironmenta\ Protection Agency
-------
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.
-------
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
-------
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
-------
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
-------
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.
VIM
-------
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
-------
INTRODUCTION
HOW SUPERFUND WORKS
Each Superfund site presents a different
set of complex problems. The same haz-
ardous materials and chemicals often con-
taminate many sites, but the details of each
site are different. Almost always, soil is con-
taminated with one or more chemicals. Their
vapors may taint the air over and around the
site. Contaminants may travel through the soil
and reach underground aquifers which may be
used for drinking water, or they may spread
over the site to contaminate streams, ponds,
and wetlands. The contaminating chemicals
may interact with each other, presenting even
more complicated cleanup problems.
Superfund's cleanup process is arduous and
exacting. It requires the best efforts of hun-
dreds of experts in science and engineering,
public health, administration and manage-
ment, law, and many other fields.
The average NPL site takes from seven to ten
years to work its way through the system,
from discovery to the start of long-term
cleanup. Actual cleanup work can take years,
decades if contaminated groundwater must
be treated. Of course, imminent threats to
public health or the environment are cor-
rected right away.
The diagram to the right presents a simplified
view of the cleanup process. The major steps
in the Superfund process are:
• Site discovery and investigation to iden-
tify contaminants and determine whether
emergency action is required;
• Emergency site work such as removing
contaminants for proper treatment or dis-
posal, and securing the site to keep people
and animals away, if warranted by condi-
tions at the site;
• Site evaluation to determine how people
living and working nearby, and the envi-
ronment, may be exposed to site contami-
nants;
• Detailed studies to determine whether con-
ditions are serious enough to add the site to
the National Priorities List of sites eligible
for federally funded cleanup under Super-
fund;
• Selection, design, and implementation of a
cleanup plan, after a thorough review of
the most effective cleanup options, given
site conditions, contaminants present, and
their potential threat to public health or the
environment.
• Follow-up to ensure that the cleanup work
done at the site continues to be effective
over the long term.
The Superfund Process
From the earliest stages, EPA investigators
work hard to identify those responsible for the
contamination. As their responsibility is es-
tablished, the EPA negotiates with these "re-
sponsible parties" to pay for cleaning up the
problem they helped create. This "enforce-
ment first" policy saves Superfund Trust Fund
monies for use in cleanups where the respon-
sible parties cannot be identified, or where
they are unable to fund cleanup work.
-------
THE VOLUME
How to Use the State Book
The 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
-------
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
STATE
EPA I0# ABCOOOOOOO
EPA REGION XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
Other Names:
Threats and Contaminants
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
-------
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
-------
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
-------
A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
xv
-------
Superfund Activities
in Indiana
The State of Indiana is located within EPA Region 5, which
includes the six midwestern States. The State covers 36,185
square miles. According to the 1990 Census, Indiana experienced
a 1 percent increase in population between 1980 and 1990, and is
ranked fourteenth in U.S. population with approximately
5,544,000 residents.
The Indiana Hazardous Waste Act of 1980, the Environmental
Management Act and the Hazardous Waste Land Disposal Tax
Act of 1981 combine to authorize site cleanup activities in the
State of Indiana. The statutes grant the State the authority to
compel polluters who are liable for site contamination to conduct
or pay for cleanup activities, regardless of fault or the amount of
contributing pollution. The State also has the authority to issue orders for
information and site access, collect civil and criminal penalties and damages, and
recover costs for State action. Under the Indiana Responsible Transfer Law, any environmental risks
posed at a property must be disclosed prior to real estate transfer. In addition to the 10 percent contri-
bution from the State required by the Federal Superfund program, the Hazardous Substances Re-
sponse Trust Fund may be used for investigations, study and design activities, emergency actions and
removals, long-term cleanup actions, operation and maintenance activities, actions at non-petroleum
Leaking Underground Storage Tank sites, and pre-authorized mixed funding claims. A 1991 amend-
ment authorized use of the Fund to address sites contaminated with petroleum. The State public
participation policy is to provide a 30-day comment period prior to final cleanup decisions. In prac-
tice, public meetings are held several times during the site investigation, followed by availability
sessions in the affected communities. Currently, 32 sites in the State of Indiana have been listed as
final on the NPL; three sites have been deleted. One new site was proposed for listing in 1992.
The Department of Environmental Management
implements the Superfund Program in the State of Indiana
Activities responsible for hazardous
waste contamination in the State of
Indiana include:
Electroplating
Operations
Automotive —-1" -' -
Operations.
Landfills/
Waste
Processing
Facilities/
Storage and
" posal
Titties
Recycling
Operations
Other
Chemical
Production
Facilities
Facts about the 36 NPL sites
in Indiana:
Immediate Actions (such as removing
hazardous substances or restricting
site access) were performed at 25
sites.
Eleven sites endanger sensitive
environments.
Thirty-two sites are located near
residential areas.
XVII
March 1992
-------
INDIANA
Most Sites Have Multiple Contaminants and
Contaminated Media:
Media Contaminated at Sites
Contaminants Found at Sites
Air
Surface
Water
Sediments
Soil
Ground-
water
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Percentage of Sites
The Potentially Responsible
Party Pays...
In the State of Indiana, potentially responsible
parties are paying for or conducting cleanup
activities at 26 sites.
Percentage of Sites
VOCs
Heavy Metals
PCBs
Creosotes
Plastics
Pesticides/Herbicides
Other*
Asbestos
Cyanide
Petrochemicals/Explosives
Acids
Dioxin
69%
58%
47%
28%
19%
17%
14%
8%
8%
6%
6%
3%
'Other contaminants include ammonia, chloroform,
cyaninde, furans, potassium, chloride, and sodium.
For Further Information on NPL Sites and Hazardous
Waste Programs in the State of Indiana Please Contact:
EPA Region 5 Office of Public
Affairs
National Response Center
Department of Environmental
Management: Office of
Environmental Response,
Project Management Branch
EPA Region 5 Waste Management
Division
EPA Superfund Hotline
For information concerning
community involvement
To report a hazardous
waste emergency
For information about the
State's responsibilfty in the
Superfund Program
For information about the
Regional Superfund Program
For information about the
Federal Superfund Program
(312) 353-2072
(800) 424-8802
(317} 243-5052
(312)353-9419
(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.
O 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
-------
TJ
«
De
S
S
.1*
t5«
30.
H
5°
Q.D)
3 C
5°
«C
00
ft
ft
ft
ft ft ft ft
ft ft
ft
g
me
si
ftftft
ft ftftftftftftftftft
03 -0.2
03 «oJ
™ occo
ft ft ft
ftftft
ftft ftftftftftftftftftft
O
Q)
03
C/)
0)
(0
0)
CO
0.
03
Q.
03
_0>
O
•o
03
I
(0
(0
0)
D)
O
ol
llftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftftft
en
•20
'c 8"
~&
ft
go go
ftft ftft ftftftft ftft ftftftftft
Oososmmvoos
— H r»i o\ ro m
,-H —i —. co o
S Ci Ci c^ ^
— 00 00 O —i — —'
ft ft
ON Tt
as. s°.
g g ro
13 *a
c c
i£ Lu
m vo ^O m m Tt
—'oooooooooooooo — «
<"*"> C> C? C) C1 *~^ '•"' C> CO f^l *"H co OJ
VO OO rf} rn ON ON ^O r*"i OJ CN ON r<^ ON ON ON ON ^0 NO ON ON ON CN C) ON
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO—'O
"
CO CO CO CO TO CO CO ^ CO 1> CO CO CO CO CO
ccccccecc^ccccc
M-» I11 fT i FT i fT i fT i fT i H^ [T i C^
"8
co co ^o « ^o c} co co
ccccc-jjcc
E E IZ IZ Lu Q E £
March 1992
xx
-------
S
*
Q
Is
I Q.
I5
Q.O)
3 C
ig,
OS
"g §>
E a
ft
tr
tt
0)
3
C
C
o
o.
CO
(0
•^M
^J
I+M
o
G)
*••
2
CO
0)
4—
C
(0
0)
0)
Q.
Z
w
CL
3
C
CO
0)
O
•o
<5
5
o
£
w
(O
0)
>_
O>
O
i_
Q.
•&«
« ~Z
01
*i
0)
0)
•So
? o.
c
E
n
Z
Q>
V)
ft
ft
ft
m
50
0
i
C
11,
JACKSON
2
O
P
S
Q
^
O
O
fy
fj
b^
u
S
^
2
i:
y
g
!^T
W
ft
ft
ON
9^
^
0
C
u,
MARION
j
j
E
Q
5
>!
5
^s
^
^
00
Q
S
C/3
K
C
^r
CO
ft
°
o
C
u.
w
TIPPECAN
^
E
Q
2;
^
Jv
<-
K
^
^
W
o
^
^,
o
a.
QH
P
ft
ft ft ft
ft
\o cs t^-
*S. ^^. ^S,
2 p 5
^O CN t — •
O O O
1
c §• c
tin.
S
BARTHOLC
LAKE
LA PORTE
^
H- 1
>•
W
g
u.
S
< J
.- W f^
Z Q Q
C -7 Zj
< < J
5< 0^ ri
w S z
p 2
•^ H r f
H g p
"? c/5 OO
nP CAl ^
P D ^
i .
ft ft
ft ft ft
ft ft ft
rn i— O
<^ ^^ ^^,
o 2 ^
O\ ^ OO
o o o
•o
c •§ c
ton.
a I
ll^
l> PQ V3
U
• ^H
Z OS
1^1
oo oo
OO ^
x S2 t3
^ *^
H H oo
5? Z Q
5 UJ Oi
i> tt O
W rri ^"
2 N S
i"-1 O fc
•^ QJ P^
^ £ £
Ja
5 £ 3 'a.
"* & '& % E
oU
a. M
c/i * £ e
UO
^c
_ 2 5 « .SP
*7! «t "• ^
i5a
«|atl
es
1/1 JC .S ^
S*! — ''! fe
^ ^5 B
. *~
<2
§
S
-s:
^
"S.
1
S"
•^
1
•|
...
3
-5
a
•=
t;
•1
J
§
§
g-
g
-Si
*-*
~
^
XXI
March 1992
-------
AMERICAN
CHEMICAL
SERVICE, INC
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND016360265
EPA REGION 5
Lake County
Griffith
Site Description
American Chemical Service (ACS), Inc. recycled chemicals on 21 acres along South Colfax
Avenue in Griffith from 1958 until 1975, when it voluntarily stopped using two disposal areas
on site and covered them. The site contains an estimated 35,000 buried drums, and pigment
and resin sludges. The site operated until 1990 as a hazardous waste recycler with interim
status under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The site previously
contained three different operations: the American Chemical Service, Kapica Drum, and the
Griffith Sanitary Landfill. ACS began operation in 1955 as a solvent recovery firm and later
began a chemical manufacturing operation. From 1955 until at least 1975, ACS disposed of a
variety of hazardous wastes produced during company operations in an area known as the
off-site containment area on the property. ACS also disposed of numerous drums and
stillbottoms in portions of the currently operating facility. Some waste was accepted from
outside sources for incineration in an on-site incinerator, and the ash was disposed of on ACS
property. In 1972, the Indiana State Board of Health (ISBH) responded to residents'
complaints and inspected the ACS facility. From 1972 to 1973, ISBH attempted to achieve
improved waste handling, spill prevention measures, and site maintenance. In 1974 and 1975,
ISBH also responded to reports that ACS was discharging chemicals to the sanitary sewer
and dumping chemicals on site. Approximately 10,000 people live within 3 miles of the site,
the closest being less than 1/4 mile away. Located in the immediate vicinity of the site are a
few residences, railroad tracks, drainage ditches, and marshy areas. More than 2,000 private
wells are in use in the area 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
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
\m
^55
The groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
including benzene, toluene, chloroethane, xylene, vinyl chloride, the creosote
pentachlorophenol (PCP), and phthalates. The shallow aquifer contains the highest
amounts of organic contaminants. Soils are heavily contaminated with numerous
substances including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), heavy metals, semi- and
non-volatiles, coal tar constituents, VOCs, and some pesticides. Evidence suggests
that the heavily contaminated shallow aquifer discharges to the wetlands and
surface water, posing the potential for adverse effects. Past discharges by ACS had
affected a major portion of the site's wetlands. Exposure to contaminants by
accidently ingesting groundwater and surface water; coming in direct contact with
groundwater, surface water, soil, or sediments; or inhaling airborne VOCs could be
potential health threats.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In the early 1980s, ACS installed a clay wall to block the
perceived flow direction of the groundwater and to control the environmental
degradation due to surface water and leachate runoff. Initial cleanup efforts
concentrated on identifying, staging, and segregating drums from construction debris in the
building. Drums were labeled, sampled, overpacked, and staged in a nearby vacant building.
Twenty-four-hour security was maintained throughout the removal. Construction debris was
decontaminated and disposed of. The remaining building brick was scrubbed with a high
pressure wash. All rinsate and decontamination water was collected and removed for
treatment and disposal. Drums were grouped into three separate waste streams based on pH
levels. All three waste streams were accepted at a facility for treatment and disposal. A total
of 277 drums of waste and 23,154 gallons of water were shipped off site for treatment and
disposal.
Entire Site: Approximately 150 potentially responsible parties have formed a
group to conduct a study of site contamination. The investigation involves wetlands
delineation; waste and soil borings; and groundwater, surface water, and sediment
sampling to determine the nature and extent of site contamination. The scheduled completion
date for the investigation is in late 1992, when the EPA will select the remedies to clean up
the site.
March 1992 2 AMERICAN CHEMICAL SERVICE, INC.
-------
Environmental Progress
The early removal of drums and contaminated water and the installation of the clay barrier
wall have reduced the potential for exposure to hazardous materials on the American
Chemical Service, Inc. site while an investigation of the site contamination is underway and
the final remedies are being planned.
Site Repository
Griffith Public Library, 940 North Broad Street, Griffith, IN 46319
AMERICAN CHEMICAL SERVICE, INC.
March 1992
-------
BENNETT S
QUARRY
INDIANA
EPA ID#IND006418651
EPA REGION 5
Monroe County
Bloomington
Site Description
The Bennett Stone Quarry site consists of 2 1/2 acres and is located approximately 1 mile
northwest of Bloomington. This limestone quarry was used as a dump for old electrical parts
for approximately 20 years, before it was discovered by the Monroe County Health
Department (MCHD) in 1983. The MCHD subsequently defined an area of several acres
that had been used for dumping electrical parts, including a large number of capacitors
contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Labels found on the capacitors during
the MCHD investigation linked contamination to the Westinghouse Corporation. Soils
adjacent to the site are stained with oil, and the entire site is devoid of vegetation. Two
ponds that drain into Stout Creek are located on the western end of the site and are coated
with oily sheens. Five other PCB-contaminated sites are located in the Bloomington area,
three of which are listed as separate sites on the NPL: Neal's Landfill, Neal's Dump, and
Lemon Lane Landfill. Anderson Road, an authorized landfill, and Winston-Thomas
Treatment Plant, an inactive City-owned wastewater treatment plant, are the other sites. The
majority of the residents living near Bennett Stone Quarry and the adjoining property depend
on private wells for their water supply. The land along Stout Creek is used for raising dairy
and beef cattle. The quarries adjacent to the site are frequented by local residents and
campers for recreational activities.
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
On-site groundwater, soils, sediments, and surface water were contaminated with
PCBs. Off-site sediments located in Stout Creek also were contaminated with
PCBs. Smaller amounts of PCBs were found in the waters of Stout Creek. Area
residents could have been exposed to contaminants through direct contact with
PCB-laden oil in the ponds and on-site PCB-contaminated soil. Should site-related
contaminants enter Stout Creek, area residents could be at risk when drinking or
coming in direct contact with contaminated surface water or sediments.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: emergency actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Emergency Actions: The EPA undertook an emergency cleanup in 1983 that
included: removing and disposing of capacitors on the surface and contaminated
soils; conducting an aerial photographic survey, a geophysical study, and soil
sampling; placing an impervious cover over the site to prevent runoff of contaminants; and
constructing security fencing around the site. In 1987, contaminated sediments were
excavated from Stout Creek.
Entire Site: Activities conducted to address contamination at the site included:
excavating all refuse plus a 2-foot buffer zone around the known refuse;
incinerating excavated materials in an approved facility; hydro-vacuuming
contaminated sediments from the on-site ponds and Stout Creek and storing them off site
until incineration and disposal can be conducted; and regrading, covering, and revegetating
the area of the site. Groundwater and surface water monitoring will be continued to ensure
that water quality standards are maintained.
Site Facts: In 1985, the Westinghouse Corporation and the EPA signed a Consent Decree,
under which Westinghouse agreed to perform the site cleanup.
Environmental Progress
The excavation, removal, or incineration of hazardous materials and contaminated creek
sediments, installation of a security fence, and other cleanup activities have reduced the
potential for exposure to contamination at the Bennett Stone Quarry site. Continuing
groundwater and surface water monitoring will provide protection to nearby residents and the
environment.
Site Repository
Not established.
BENNETT STONE QUARRY 5 March 1992
-------
CARTER LEE
LUMBER COMPA
INDIANA
EPAID#IND01639589&
EPA REGION 5
Marion County
Indianapolis
Site Description
Carter Lee Lumber Company has been selling lumber products at this 2-acre site since 1873.
In 1971, Carter Lee bought land behind its original property from the Cleveland, Cincinnati,
Chicago, and St. Louis Railway Corporation. Liquid wastes from tank trucks and railroad cars
reportedly were dumped onto the ground and into a trench on the property. The EPA
sampled the soil in 1985 and found it to be contaminated with heavy metals and polynuclear
aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs). The trench has been filled with clay and the property has
been fenced, with access limited to employees of the lumber company. Approximately 710,000
people obtain drinking water from municipal wells within 3 miles of the site. These wells are
supplied by surface water. The closest private drinking water well is upgradient from the
property and approximately 3,500 feet away. The property is in the flood plain of the White
River, which is located 1,500 feet from the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Soil is contaminated with heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and
copper; as well as cyanide and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Presently, there is little threat to human health or the environment. The site is
fenced; however, employees of the lumber company are coming into contact with
contaminated soil, as well as cleanup workers who dig or uncover the
contamination in the trench.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: An investigation is underway at the Carter Lee Lumber Company
site to delineate the nature and extent of contamination in all media. The EPA
will identify and evaluate potential routes of contaminant migration, assess risk
posed by the site, and collect data to identify and evaluate remedial alternatives. The
investigation is planned for completion in early 1995.
Environmental Progress
The site has been fenced to limit access and the trenches have been filled to reduce the
potential for exposure to contaminated soil at the Carter Lee Lumber Company site. The
EPA has assessed conditions at the site and determined that no immediate actions are
required while studies are taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Not established.
CARTER LEE LUMBER COMPANY 7 March 1992
-------
COLUMBUI
MUNICIPA
LANDFILL
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980607626
EPA REGION 5
Bartholomew County
Columbus
Other Names:
City Dump #1
Site Description
The City of Columbus operated the 12-acre Columbus Old Municipal Landfill #1 site without
a permit from 1938 until 1966. The landfill reportedly accepted municipal and industrial
wastes including solvents, acids, bases, paints, and heavy metals. The landfill is unlined, but
the top is covered with a layer of sand, clay, and gravel where grass has grown. Wastes were
deposited on the surface of the landfill, and the site forms a low barrier between the
farmlands that surround it and the East Fork of the White River. Geologic conditions at the
site make it easy for the groundwater to interact with and contaminate the surface waters in
the area. The closest residence to the site is less than 1/2 mile away. Approximately 33,000
people live within a 3-mile radius of the site. There are private wells within 1/2 mile of the
site, and public wells for water supply are within 3 miles.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater at the site is contaminated with lead and chromium from paint
wastes; however, information currently is not available on the extent of
contamination of surface water or soil. Other contamination found on site includes
acids, bases, and organic solvents. Possible health threats to people include
drinking or coming in direct contact with contaminated groundwater or surface
water, or accidentally ingesting contaminated soil or sediments. The site is prone to
flooding, increasing the chance for contaminants to reach surface waters in the
area.
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 potentially responsible parties began an investigation in 1987 to
determine the nature and extent of contamination at the site. The remedy was
selected in early 1992. Based on the investigation, it was concluded that no further
action was needed at the site. However, due to the possibility of a public road being
constructed on the site, a contingency remedy also was selected. If a road is built, institutional
controls will be implemented, including fencing, capping and monitoring.
Site Facts: In 1987, a Consent Order was signed between the EPA, the Indiana Department
of Environmental Management, and three parties potentially responsible for the site
contamination. Under the agreement, the parties agreed to study the site to determine the
nature and extent of contamination at the landfill. In March 1992, based on the results of the
investigation, a limited action alternative was selected by the EPA. Groundwater monitoring
will continue at the site.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Columbus Old Municipal Landfill
site while studies are taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Bartholomew County Public Library, 220 West Union Street, Kokomo, IN 46901
COLUMBUS OLD MUNICIPAL LANDFILL #1 9 March 1992
-------
CONRAIL RAIL YA
(ELKHART)
INDIANA
EPA ID#IND000715490
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Elkhart County
Elkhart
Other Names:
County Road 1
The Conrail Rail Yard (Elkhart) began operations in 1956 as part of the New York Central
Railroad and continued operations as a subsidiary of the Penn Central Transportation
Company until 1976. From 1962 to 1968, numerous citizen complaints regarding oil discharges
from the rail yard to the nearby St. Joseph River were filed with State and local authorities.
In 1976, Conrail took over the rail yard's functions. From 1976 to 1986, the rail yard
experienced spills and releases of oil, diesel fuel, hydrochloric acid, caustic soda, and various
petroleum-related substances. Also, track-cleaning fluids and engine degreasers were used and
disposed of at the site. The site contains several ponds used to stabilize waste and separate
oils and a disposal area, now covered, where rail yard wastes were discarded. In 1986, the
EPA discovered volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the groundwater near the site.
Approximately 41,000 people live in Elkhart; the entire population obtains its drinking water
from groundwater. The Elkhart Water Works serves approximately 41,000 persons living
northeast of the site. The remaining population obtains drinking water from private
residential wells.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soil at the site contain VOCs. People could be exposed to
hazardous substances from the site by accidentally coming into direct contact with
or ingesting contaminated groundwater or soil.
10
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the entire site and cleanup of the source area of the
contamination.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The EPA began a program to sample the groundwater off
site in 1986. The EPA sampled 88 residential wells and detected various VOCs.
The EPA provided bottled water to residents whose wells were affected. Also, the
EPA installed 76 activated carbon filter units in residences. As part of the immediate action,
the EPA also removed 28 drums containing waste paint from the nearby Martin property in
1987.
Entire Site: The EPA started an investigation of the nature and extent of
contamination at the site in 1988. This study resulted in an Agency decision in
1991 to connect four affected residential areas to the City of Elkhart municipal
water supply system, conduct groundwater monitoring, and install a groundwater extraction,
treatment and disposal system. Design of the cleanup remedies is scheduled to begin late in
1992.
Source Area: In 1991, the EPA began further investigation of the source area of
the contamination. The study is scheduled to be completed in 1993.
Environmental Progress
The immediate actions of providing bottled water, installing carbon filter units, and removing
drums have reduced the potential for exposure to contaminated drinking water and continue
to protect residents near the Conrail Rail Yard (Elkhart) site while cleanup actions are being
planned and investigations are ongoing.
Site Repository
Elkhart Public Library, 300 South 2nd Street, Elkhart, IN 46516
CONRAIL RAIL YARD (ELKHART) 11 March 1992
-------
CONTINENTAL
CORPORATION
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND001213503
EPA REGION 5
Howard County
Kokomo
Site Description
Since 1914, the Continental Steel Corporation has produced rods and ware products from
recycled steel scraps on this 200-acre site. The site includes the plant, a lagoon, and a quarry.
In 1946, wastes were collected in a surface impoundment, processed through a neutralization
system, and discharged to Wildcat Creek. In 1984, 1985, and 1986, the Indiana Department
of Environmental Management identified heavy metals in the impoundment and heavy metals
and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the on-site groundwater. Operations at the site
ended in 1986, when the facility went bankrupt. Approximately 1,600 people obtain drinking
water from private wells within 3 miles of the site. The nearest well is 7,200 feet from the
site. The site is situated above an aquifer.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and surface water contain VOCs and heavy metals including
chromium, cadmium, iron, and manganese. Liquids in the quarry pond and lagoon
contain VOCs and heavy metals including copper, zinc, and mercury. Sludges and
creek sediments contain heavy metals including cadmium, chromium, iron, and
manganese; VOCs; and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Soils are contaminated
with heavy metals, PCBs, phenols, phthalates, and VOCs. PCBs were found in fish
caught in Kokomo and Wildcat Creeks. People could be exposed to contaminants
by coming into direct contact with or accidentally ingesting contaminated
groundwater, soil, sludge, surface water, liquids, or sediments. In addition, eating
contaminated fish from the creeks could pose a health hazard.
12
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1990, the EPA began removing drums and visibly
contaminated soil from a quarry area near the plant. Approximately 700 drums,
33 vats, and 55 tanks were found. All contained unknown materials. The EPA
sampled the containers; the results are being analyzed. The EPA also investigated the pond
within the quarry area and found approximately 500 empty drums and three storage tanks.
Entire Site: In 1991, the State began a study into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site to determine the best methods to address the problems.
The State is scheduled to complete the study in 1994. This complex site will be
divided into additional cleanup phases as studies progress and more is known about the site.
Site Facts: Continental Steel Corporation filed for bankruptcy in 1985 and ceased
operations at the site in 1986.
Environmental Progress
The removal of drums and contaminated soil has reduced the potential for exposure to
contaminated materials at the Continental Steel Corporation site while studies are taking
place and final cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Kokomo-Howard County Public Library, 220 West Union Street, Kokomo, IN 46901
CONTINENTAL STEEL CORPORATION 13 March 1992
-------
DOUGLAS
ROAD/UNIRO
LANDFILL
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980607881
EPA REGION 5
St. Joseph County
Mishawaka
Site Description
The 19-acre Douglas Road/Uniroyal, Inc. Landfill site is owned by Uniroyal, Inc. and was
operated between 1954 and 1979. From 1954 to 1971, solvents, fly ash, paper, wood stock,
rubber, and plastic wrap were disposed of at the unlined landfill. After operations ceased, the
landfill was covered with topsoil and seeded. According to the company, some 6,000 barrels of
waste were disposed of at the landfill. The South Bend Water Department operates seven
wells within 3 miles of the site that serve approximately 120,000 people. Approximately 2,100
people live within a one mile radius of the site. Judy Creek is located approximately 2,000
feet from the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with hydrocarbons. Potential health risks include
touching or accidentally ingesting the contaminated groundwater. The site is
secured, reducing the potential for direct access.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
14
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: Uniroyal, Inc. has initiated an investigation to determine the type and
extent of contamination at the landfill and to identify cleanup remedies. The work
was being conducted under the monitoring of the Indiana Department of
Environmental Management (IDEM) until Uniroyal, Inc. filed for bankruptcy in 1992. Field
work by the EPA is scheduled to begin in 1993, and the site investigation is scheduled for
completion in 1994.
Site Facts: In 1989, the IDEM signed a Consent Order under which Uniroyal, Inc. initiated
an investigation to determine the type and extent of contamination at the site.
In 1992, Uniroyal Inc. filed for bankruptcy and informed the EPA and the IDEM that they
could no longer conduct site investigation activities. The EPA is planning to take over these
activities.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Douglas Road/Uniroyal, Inc.
Landfill while studies take place and cleanup activities are planned.
Site Repository
Mishawaka-Penn Public Library, 209 Lincoln Way, East, Mishawaka, IN 46544
DOUGLAS ROAD/UNIROYAL, INC.
LANDFILL
15
March 1992
-------
ENVIROCHEM
CORPORATION
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND08425E951
EPA REGION 5
Boone County
10 miles northwest of Indianapolis
Site Description
The 6 1/2-acre Envirochem Corporation site is an inactive facility that processed and
reclaimed solvents from 1977 until 1982, when the State closed the site. Wastes such as
resins, paint sludges, waste oils, and flammable solvents were received in drums and bulk
tankers and were stored on site in drums and storage tanks. On-site accumulation and
unauthorized discharge of contaminated stormwater, poor management of drum inventory,
unapproved burning of chlorinated hydrocarbons and other solvents, and several spills
brought the State and the EPA to investigate the site. The State prohibited further shipment
of waste to the site; however, over 20,000 drums and 400,000 gallons of waste remained on
site. Additionally, contaminated underground and aboveground storage tanks and wastewater
in holding ponds were present. Approximately 50 people live within 1 mile of the site. The
City of Indianapolis uses the Eagle Creek Reservoir as its drinking water supply. A rainstorm
caused a waste pond to overflow into an unnamed ditch on site and then to Finley Creek. In
1985, the State noted that runoff from the site enters the Eagle Creek Reservoir.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
zv
Groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy
metals including barium, lead, and nickel. Sediments contain lead. VOCs,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), phenols, and phthalates are contaminating the
soils. Surface water contains VOCs. People could be exposed to contaminants by
coming into direct contact with or accidentally ingesting contaminated
groundwater, soil, surface water, or sediments.
16
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 1983 and 1984, the EPA and a group of parties
potentially responsible for site contamination performed immediate actions that
included removing and treating waste from on-site storage tanks, removing and
treating 5,650 cubic yards of contaminated soils, and fencing the site. Actions also were taken
to prevent contaminated water from overflowing into surface waters off site. Bulk tanks and
treating water from cooling ponds were removed, in addition to 3,085 drums and 167,000
gallons of liquid waste. The EPA also removed two underground storage tanks, cleaned and
disposed of bulk storage tanks and miscellaneous piping, and placed a clay cap on the surface
of the site. The holding pond was drained and capped, and the water in the pond was sent off
site to an approved facility for treatment. Tanks on site were sampled, and the contents were
tested for compatibility. Tanks with compatible contents were combined and then dried and
cleaned. Sludge from the tanks was put into drums for off-site removal and treatment. Other
underground tanks and pipes were located and recovered. The tanks containing PCBs were
cleaned and rinsed. The transformer was drained and rinsed with fuel oil. The entire site was
then capped and seeded, and drainages were set up to control the water that runs onto the
site when it rains. In 1985, the EPA installed a sump to collect contaminated groundwater.
Entire Site: In 1987, the EPA completed a study of options for addressing
contamination at the site and selected the following cleanup measures: installing a
permanent cap over the site to prevent contaminants in the soil from moving off
site, and installing a system to pump and treat contaminated groundwater. In 1991, the EPA
amended the selected remedy to include soil vapor extraction, with a granulated activated
carbon system to treat extracted vapor from contaminated soils rather than groundwater
collection and treatment. This new remedy is expected to reduce the time required
significantly to clean up the site. The EPA has completed all the field work necessary to
design the cap, and final cleanup construction is expected to begin in late 1992.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree was negotiated between the EPA, the State of Indiana, and
254 potentially responsible parties, which included the establishment of a fund to finance the
removal work that the EPA began in 1983. The parties also agreed to perform final cleanup
work at the site. Based on a demonstration pilot study, the potentially responsible parties
entered into a 1991 Consent Decree to use vapor extraction technology to clean up the site.
ENVIROCHEM CORPORATION 17 March 1992
-------
Environmental Progress
The removal of tanks, drums, liquid wastes, and contaminated soil, the securing of the site,
and the additional immediate actions described above have reduced the potential for
exposure to hazardous substances at the Envirochem Corporation site while final cleanup
activities are taking place.
Site Repository
Hussey Memorial Library, 225 West Hawthorne, Zionsville, IN 46077
March 1992
18
ENVIROCHEM CORPORATION
-------
FISHER-CALO
INDIANA
EPA ID#IND0743158961
EPA REGION 5
LaPorte County
1 1/2 miles northeast
of Kingsbury Heights
Other Names:
Fisher-Calo Chemical and Solvents
Site Description
The 250-acre Fisher-Calo site consists of two separate tracts: a 10-acre portion of the site
known as the "One Line Facility" and a 240-acre portion of the site known as the 'Two Line
Facility." The site is a former industrial chemical processing and distribution facility. The
facility is located in an area that previously housed the Kingsbury Ordnance Plant, a U.S.
military installation used to manufacture weapons. In the early 1960s, the ordnance plant was
closed, and the land was purchased by a private developer who subdivided the property to
form an industrial park. Sodium hypochlorite was produced and sulfur dioxide, chloride,
ammonia, and various solvents were packaged at the site. For several years, a solvent
reclamation facility that recovered paint and metal cleaning solvents for resale operated at
the site. Cyanide, acids, and metal plating wastes were also accepted from other industries,
stored in metal drums, and stockpiled on the site or dumped on the ground. In 1978, a fire
broke out at the site's solvent reclamation facility, destroying several bulk storage tanks,
trucks, and drums of chemical wastes and solvents. Later that year, buried drums were
discovered on the property. In 1979 and 1980, drums containing chemicals and sludges were
removed from the site. Waste materials, mostly stillbottoms, are stored in drums, tanks, and
containers at the site. Some of the drums are reportedly leaking. The site is fenced, but only
the main gate is guarded. Approximately 3,700 people live within 4 miles of the site. The
nearest public water supply well is 1/2 mile from the site, and the closest residence using
groundwater as a water source is 1 1/2 miles from the site.
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
On-site groundwater and soils are contaminated with volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). On-site soils also contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and
semi-volatiles. The greatest health risk to people is through drinking contaminated
groundwater or touching contaminated soils.
19
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1989, the parties potentially responsible for site
contamination, under EPA monitoring, fenced the site and staged and removed
empty drums. The potentially responsible parties are sampling and disposing of
the drums, tanks, and containers of hazardous waste and the visibly contaminated soil. These
activities are nearly completed.
Entire Site: The EPA conducted an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site. The remedy selected in 1990 includes several
components. Soil contaminated with PCBs and semi-volatiles will be treated by
excavation and on-site incineration; soil flushing or soil vapor extraction will treat any
VOC-contaminated soils remaining after excavation. Groundwater extraction wells will be
installed from which the groundwater will be pumped and treated with air stripping; treated
groundwater will be reinjected into the aquifer. Asbestos will be assessed and limited asbestos
removal or repair of existing structures is planned. A new water supply will be installed. Soil
gas testing, and installation and upgrading of security fences around the site are also planned.
The design of the selected technologies is underway.
Site Facts: Fisher-Calo entered into a Consent Agreement with the EPA in 1982, agreeing
to conduct quarterly groundwater monitoring at the site to determine whether contaminants
had dissipated to acceptable levels. In 1988, the EPA issued a Unilateral Order to the
potentially responsible parties requiring them to conduct initial cleanup activities at the site.
Environmental Progress
Fencing the site, removing empty drums, and disposing of hazardous waste and contaminated
soils have reduced the potential for exposure to contaminants at the Fisher-Calo site while
cleanup technologies are being designed and cleanup activities are being planned.
March 1992 20 FISHER-CALO
-------
Site Repository
La Porte County Public Library, 904 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, IN 46350
FISHER-CALO
21
March 1992
-------
FORT WAYNE
REDUCTION DU
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980679i
EPA REGION 5
Allen County
Fort Wayne
Site Description
The 35-acre Fort Wayne Reduction Dump site is a former municipal landfill and waste
disposal facility. Before 1967, the site was uncultivated farmland often used for dumping
unknown waste. Between 1967 and 1976, the facility accepted wastes including residential
garbage, sewage, industrial liquid waste, paper, and wood. Wastes were incinerated, and the
residual ash was disposed of on the site. Volatile liquids were dumped from drums into a pit
adjacent to the Maumee River. The site consists of two areas: the 15-acre eastern portion
used as the general refuse landfill, and a 5-acre western section used for the disposal of
industrial wastes, building debris, barrels of unidentified wastes, and residual ash from the
incinerator. In 1970, Fort Wayne Reduction changed its name to National Recycling
Corporation (NRC) and built a recycling plant for processing solid waste. The recycling
stopped in 1975, and the building was torn down in 1985. NRC was acquired by Service
Corporation of America (SCA) in 1973. SCA was denied a municipal refuse permit, and
operations ceased in 1976. Waste Management acquired SCA in 1984. Two residential
communities are located approximately 1/2 mile from the dump. The Maumee River borders
the property, and the site is in the 100-year flood plain. Approximately 1,100 people use
private wells as a source of drinking water. Two areas on the site are designated as wetlands.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy
metals. Heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs), phenols, and VOCs are present in the soil. People who
come into direct contact with or accidentally ingest contaminated groundwater or
soil may be at risk. Contaminants have migrated into the Maumee River through
groundwater discharge. The wetlands on the site are an important habitat for many
plants and animals. If contaminants seep into the wetlands, the wildlife may be
harmed.
22
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: In 1988, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the site by: closing
the eastern portion of the site to prevent erosion and eliminating potential direct
contact threats; monitoring the groundwater as it flows from the site to the
Maumee River; installing a system to collect groundwater between the site and the Maumee
River and treating the groundwater, if necessary; excavating 4,600 drums and incinerating
their contents; backfilling the excavated areas; closing the western portion of the site to
prevent erosion and eliminate potential direct contact threats; constructing a fence around
the site; imposing deed restrictions on the use of the land; protecting the wetlands during the
cleanup activities; and installing erosion mats and planting vegetation to reduce erosion
during Maumee River floods. Waste Management, under EPA monitoring, designed the
technical specifications for the cleanup. Construction of the remedy for the eastern portion
was completed in the summer of 1991. The design of the cleanup measures for the western
portion currently is underway. All cleanup is scheduled for completion in the summer of 1994.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Fort Wayne Reduction Dump
site. Cleanup actions in the eastern portion of the site currently are underway, while the
design of the cleanup approach for the western site area is being completed.
Site Repository
Allen County Public Library, 900 Webster Street, Forte Wayne, IN 46801
FORT WAYNE REDUCTION DUMP
23
March 1992
-------
GALEN MYERS
DUMP/DRUM
SALVAGE
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980999635
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
St. Joseph County
Osceola
From 1960 to 1982, drums from local industries were stored and recycled at the 5-acre Galen
Myers Dump/Drum Salvage site. The tops were removed, the contents were dumped into a
pit and driveway, and the drums were sold as trash containers. In 1984, the EPA found many
leaking and deteriorating drums on the site and removed them in 1985. In 1986, the Indiana
Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) found soil and private wells to be
contaminated. Approximately 17,000 people obtain drinking water from wells located within 3
miles of the site. The St. Joseph River is located 1 mile from the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soil are contaminated with various volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). The soil also contains phthalates, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and
pesticides. Most area residents use private wells for drinking water. The municipal
water supply is drawn from the same aquifer as the private wells. People who drink
contaminated water or come into direct contact with the water or soils may be at
risk.
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.
24
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1985, the EPA removed 274 drums of waste and
contaminated soils and transported them to a Federally approved storage facility.
In 1987, the EPA provided alternate drinking water to 10 residences. This
involved installing a combination air stripping and carbon filtration system at two residences,
whole-house clean carbon filters at three residences, and point of use filters on taps at eight
residences.
Entire Site: In 1991, the State began a study to determine the extent of the
groundwater and soil contamination at the site. Once the study is completed, final
site cleanup measures will be recommended.
Environmental Progress
The removal of contaminated materials and the provision of an alternate source of drinking
water to affected residences have eliminated the potential of exposure to contaminated
drinking water and will continue to protect residents near the Galen Myers Dump/Drum
Salvage site while studies leading to the selection of the final cleanup methods are being
planned.
Site Repository
Not established.
GALEN MYERS DUMP/DRUM SALVAGE
25
March 1992
-------
HIMCO DUMP
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980500292
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Elkhait County
Elkhart
The 50-acre Himco Dump site, located in the Town of Elkhart, operated as a dump from
1960 until 1976. During its operation, general refuse and medical, pharmaceutical, and
industrial wastes were disposed of on the site. As waste was brought into the dump, marshy
land was filled in and then covered with sand. The elevation at the center of the site is built
up approximately 15 feet. Along the perimeter of the site, the elevation is 5 feet higher than
the original levels. The disposal practices make it difficult to determine exact locations where
the waste was buried; however, the present topography of the site suggests that waste may
have been deposited over the entire 50 acres. Vegetation on the site appears to have been
affected by the contamination. During a site inspection in 1984, the EPA observed several
leachate streams at various locations, as well as strong sulfate and methane odors. The EPA
also detected several contaminants in monitoring wells downgradient of the site. In 1974, the
State Health Commissioner advised the site operator to drill deep wells to replace six
contaminated shallow residential wells located adjacent to and just south of the site. A 1988
inspection of the site by the Indiana State Board of Health (ISBH) and the Department of
Environmental Management identified disposal areas that were uncovered and exposed to the
environment. Wells within 3 miles of the site serve at least 20,000 people. The closest
residences to the site are located on the southern perimeter. A 200-home mobile home park
is located downgradient of the site, to the south of the landfill. Several small industries, a
residential area, and land used for agricultural purposes are located in the vicinity of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals including selenium and beryllium
and the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) trichloroethylene (TCE) and toluene.
The dump is located over a continuous portion of shallow groundwater that is the
sole source of drinking water for the town of Elkhart. The drinking water supply
for the town may be at risk if site-related contaminants migrate into this shallow
groundwater aquifer under the site. The contamination on the site also could
adversely affect the nearby wetlands.
26
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In response to complaints of well contamination, the site
operator installed deep wells to replace nearby contaminated residential drinking
water wells.
Entire Site: In 1989, the EPA began a study to assess the nature and extent of
site contamination and to identify cleanup options. The first phase of field work
has been completed and is being evaluated. Additional field work began in
mid-1991. The EPA expects to finish this study in 1993. Cleanup work is anticipated to begin
in late 1994.
Site Facts: In 1975, the owner of the site signed a Consent Agreement with the Stream
Pollution Control Board of Indiana that resulted in the closure of the site in 1976. Possible
contamination of six residential shallow wells, ranging from 22 to 62 feet deep, was reported
to the Elkhart County Health Department, the ISBH, and the EPA in 1974. In response to
these complaints, the site operator drilled new water wells for these six individuals, and when
these wells were sampled in 1984, they were not found to be contaminated.
Environmental Progress
New wells installed by the site operator for the six residences with contaminated wells has
reduced the potential for exposure to the contaminated groundwater. After listing the Himco
Dump site on the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary evaluations and determined that the
site does not pose an immediate threat to the surrounding community or the environment
while investigations leading to the selection of a final cleanup remedy for the site are taking
place.
Site Repository
Elkhart Public Library, Pierre Moran Branch Library, 2400 Benham Avenue, Elkhart,
IN 46517
HIMCO DUMP 27 March 1992
-------
INTERNATIONAL
MINERALS &
CHEMICAL CO
(TERRE HAUTE
EAST PLANT)
INDIANA
EPA ID#INT190010876
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Vigo County
Terre Haute
Other Names:
IMC (Terre Haute East Plant)
The International Minerals & Chemical Corp. (Terre Haute East Plant) site consists of 6
acres of a 37-acre lot and is located in southeastern Terre Haute, about 2 miles east of the
Wabash River. It is bordered on the east and west by various railroad facilities. From 1946
until 1954, the Commercial Solvents Corporation (CSC) manufactured and stored benzene
hexachloride (BHC), a raw material used in the production of pesticides, at the facility.
Wastes generated from the production of BHC were collected on the site property in a sump
and eventually were disposed of at the Canal Road Dump, located a few miles south of the
property. In 1975, International Minerals and Chemical Corporation (IMC) purchased the
site. Beginning in 1979, IMC collected samples of soils from the East Plant facility and the
Canal Road Dump and analyzed them for the presence of site-related contaminants. IMC
also installed monitoring wells on and around the East Plant property to determine if
contaminants were migrating from the site into the groundwater. The results of these studies
confirmed the presence of BHC in soil samples and in samples collected from two of the
groundwater monitoring wells. The EPA became involved in activities at the site in 1984,
when contamination was detected in some of the monitoring wells. While residential wells
were found to contain varying amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), none of the
samples taken contained BHC. The population of the City of Terre Haute is approximately
61,000. The majority of the residences within the vicinity of the site are connected to the
municipal water supply system; the others depend on private wells for their drinking water
supply. There are approximately 30 nearby residential wells located downgradient of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site was addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Deleted Date: 02/11/91
28
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soils were contaminated with VOCs including low levels of BHC.
Due to the nature of this chemical, it is unlikely that it migrated into the local
water supply system. During sampling, three residential wells were found to contain
chloroform and associated derivatives at or above the maximum contaminant level
for safe drinking water. The removal of the source of contamination resulted in
the reduction of contaminants to within safety levels. Potential health threats
included direct contact with or inhalation of contaminated soils and accidental
ingestion of contaminated groundwater prior to the completion of cleanup
activities.
Cleanup Approach
The site was addressed through immediate actions; further investigations showed that no
other cleanup actions were necessary except for maintenance of existing remedies.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: IMC excavated approximately 18,500 cubic yards of
contaminated soil, rubble, piping, and other debris. The debris was stockpiled in
an on-site mound on the East Plant property. After the completion of this mound,
concentrations of BHC in groundwater declined relatively quickly to within safety levels. The
stockpile was covered with clay, common fill, and loam, then seeded in 1980 to prevent
erosion that could have resulted in exposure to contaminants. This cover included a surface
drainage collection system and venting mechanisms that allow gas to escape from the soil. In
1981, IMC, under State and EPA supervision, installed additional groundwater monitoring
wells uphill and downhill of the stockpile mound. From 1981 to the present, these wells have
been sampled quarterly for the presence of BHC and other contaminants.
Entire Site: Because of the immediate actions conducted by IMC in 1980, a
decision was reached in 1988 by the EPA that no further cleanup action was
necessary at the site. However, the following maintenance activities are being
conducted over a 30-year period: inspecting the existing cover on a quarterly basis;
maintaining the vegetation cover; monitoring BHC in the groundwater semi-annually for 5
years and annually for the next 25 years; annually reporting of monitoring results to the
State; restricting access to the site; and establishing a contingency plan that provides
appropriate cleanup measures to be taken if there is a chance that BHC may be released into
the environment from the site. The parties potentially responsible for site contamination are
conducting the maintenance activities as specified, under EPA monitoring. Both the EPA and
the State of Indiana have determined that all appropriate responses at the site have been
completed and that no further cleanup actions are necessary. The site was deleted from the
NPL in 1991.
INTERNATIONAL MINERALS & CHEMICAL 29 March 1992
CORP. (TERRE HAUTE EAST PLANT)
-------
Environmental Progress
The party potentially responsible for the site contamination took immediate action to remove
contaminated materials from the site, which eliminated the potential for exposure to
hazardous substances and effectively controlled the movement of contaminants into the
groundwater. The EPA has determined that the site no longer poses a threat to public health
or the environment and has deleted the International Minerals & Chemical Corp. (Terre
Haute East Plant) site from the NPL.
Site Repository
Not established.
March 1992
30
INTERNATIONAL MINERALS & CHEMICAL
CORP. (TERRE HAUTE EAST PLANT)
-------
LAKE SANDY JO gi
(M & M LANDFILL)^
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980500524
EPA REGION 5
Lake County
Gary
Site Description
The Lake Sandy Jo (M & M Landfill) site covers 40 acres in Gary. The site was a former
water-filled borrow pit that was used as a landfill between 1971 and 1980. Various wastes,
including construction and demolition debris, garage and industrial wastes, and drums are
believed to be buried on the site. The borrow pit originally was dug to support construction of
1-90/84, which is adjacent to the site. In 1971, groundwater filled the pit, and it was used for a
short time as a recreational lake. From 1971 until 1975, the pit was filled with various debris.
Local residents became concerned over odors from the site and, in 1976, the owners were
ordered to drain the lake and to restrict fill to demolition debris only. Later in 1976, the site
was sold to Glen and Gordon Martin, who continued filling operations without a license until
the site was closed in 1980. Approximately 5,300 people live within 3 miles of the site and
draw water from more than 1,400 wells.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater, sediments, surface water, and soils contain heavy metals such as
arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, and silver; volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
including methylene chloride and chloroform; polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs);
and the pesticide DDT. The soils also are contaminated with polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalates, and heavy metals. People who come in direct
contact with or accidentally ingest contaminated groundwater, soil, surface water,
or sediments may be at risk.
31
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the soil and sediments and extension of the water line.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1986, the EPA installed a 6-foot chain-link fence to
restrict access to the site. An existing 4-foot fence on the swampy southern side
of the site was deemed a sufficient barrier to complete the enclosure. Several
days after the installation, vandals stole 100 feet of the fence. To discourage future
vandalism, the fence was painted with fluorescent paint, reducing its resale value.
Soil and Sediments: Following the selection of cleanup activities in 1986, the
EPA has: consolidated all contaminated soil and sediments; installed additional
monitoring wells; and covered the site with clean soil and reseeded. These actions
were completed in 1990. A groundwater and surface water monitoring program, deed
restrictions on the use of the land, and institutional controls on the use of the aquifer are
expected to be in effect in 1992.
Water Line: Based on the 1986 decision on site cleanup, the EPA is extending a
water line to residences affected by the site. The main water line is constructed,
however the 40 to 45 residences have not been connected to the water system nor
has the system been transferred to the local utility. These activities are scheduled to be
completed in 1992.
Environmental Progress
The installation of a security fence around the site and a cover over the site has reduced
threats posed by the Lake Sandy Jo (M & M Landfill) site to the surrounding community and
the environment while final cleanup activities are being completed.
Site Repository
Gary Public Library, 220 West 5th Avenue, Gary, IN 46402
March 1992 32 LAKE SANDY JO
(M & M LANDFILL)
-------
LAKELAND DISPO
SERVICE, INC.
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND064703200
EPA REGION 5
Kosciusko County
Claypool
Site Description
Lakeland Disposal Service, Inc. operated a 39-acre sanitary landfill 3 1/2 miles northwest of
Claypool. The landfill was licensed by the Indiana State Board of Health (ISBH) to accept
municipal and certain industrial wastes from specific facilities. Beginning in 1974, general
refuse and hazardous wastes including cyanide and sludges containing paint, hydroxides of
aluminum, and heavy metals were disposed of at the site. In 1978, the Kosciusko County
Circuit Court ordered the landfill closed as a result of improper operations. The same year, a
new owner began subdividing and selling portions of the landfill to mobile home owners. In
1982, the State conducted a methane gas survey at the closed landfill and detected high
concentrations of the gas beside one of the mobile homes. The State filed an injunction
requesting that the residents move from the landfill property. In 1983, the Kosciusko County
Board of Zoning Appeals ordered the residents to move off the landfill site. Currently, no
one resides at the site. Sloan Adams Ditch runs through the site into Palestine Lake 2 miles
away, which is used for recreational activities. There are approximately 1,100 residents within
2 miles of the site who rely on private wells for their water supply. Claypool's two municipal
wells are within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals including arsenic, barium, and
cadmium and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including trichloroethene and
vinyl chloride. On-site soils are contaminated with heavy metals. Accidental
ingestion of contaminated water from wells, direct contact with contaminated soil,
and the risk of fire and explosion may pose health threats. The area has several
wetlands, which could be affected by contaminated runoff from the site.
33
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The parties potentially responsible for the site contamination have
begun an investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination and
to identify alternatives for long-term cleanup of the site. The first phase of the
investigation was completed in early 1991. The second phase, which included installation of
more monitoring wells, wetland delineation, and residential well sampling, was completed in
late 1991. The investigation is scheduled for completion in 1992, with cleanup remedies
expected to be selected in 1993.
Site Facts: In 1989, Dana Corporation, General Motors Corporation, United Technologies
Automotive, Inc., and Warsaw Black Oxide, Inc. signed a Consent Order with the EPA to
conduct an investigation of site contamination.
Environmental Progress
After adding the Lakeland Disposal Service, Inc. site to the NPL, the EPA determined that
the site does not pose an imminent threat to the surrounding community and the
environment while the investigations leading to the selection of final cleanup remedies for the
site are taking place.
Site Repository
Koscuisko County Health Department, 100 West Center Street, 3rd Floor, Room 2,
Warsaw, IN 46580
March 1992 34 LAKELAND DISPOSAL SERVICE, INC.
-------
LEMON LANE
LANDFILL
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980794341
EPA REGION 5
Monroe County
Bloomington
Site Description
The Lemon Lane Landfill site is located on the western edge of the City of Bloomington.
The site encompasses 10 acres, 3 of which are owned by a private citizen. From 1950 to 1964,
the landfill, which had no liner or runoff controls, accepted both municipal and industrial
wastes. Allegedly, wastes were incinerated on site. No records were kept of the types or
quantities of wastes received. Of primary concern were large quantities of exposed and
leaking capacitors containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Starting in 1980, the State of
Indiana and the EPA sampled the area several times. No PCBs were detected in nearby
residential wells at the time, nor were any surface discharges observed. However, the geology
of the area suggests that groundwater contamination is possible. Westinghouse Electric
Corporation, the party potentially responsible for contamination at the site, is handling
cleanup of Lemon Lane Landfill, as well as other NPL sites, including one authorized landfill,
and an inactive, City-owned wastewater treatment plant in the Bloomington area (Neal's
Landfill, Neal's Dump, Bennett Stone Quarry, the Anderson Road Landfill, and the
Winston-Thomas Treatment Plant). Westinghouse is planning to construct an incinerator that
will comply with all applicable local, State, and Federal laws.
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
The groundwater and soils are contaminated with PCBs. Direct contact with and
accidental ingestion of contaminated soil or groundwater are potential health
threats. Capping the landfill has reduced the possibility for contaminants to reach
the groundwater.
35
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1983, the EPA constructed a fence around the site to
prevent access to the area. The EPA also removed exposed PCB capacitors,
graded and covered the southern slopes of the site, regraded and contoured the
land to prevent ponding or erosion, and capped the site. In 1988, a low-flow dye trace study
of the groundwater system around the landfill was conducted to determine the hydrologic
connection of springs to the site and to better define the groundwater system. On the basis of
this study, the EPA concluded that effects on the local groundwater wells are minimal.
Entire Site: An alternate water supply was provided to a resident whose wells
showed signs of contamination. One nearby residence was connected to the city
water supply in 1988, after the dye trace study determined that its well water
supply was contaminated. A synthetic cap was placed on the landfill in 1988. In 1990,
Westinghouse concluded high-flow dye trace studies of the flow and presence of
contaminated groundwater. Westinghouse will conduct the remaining remedies for the site,
which include: excavation of approximately 176,000. cubic yards of soil and material from the
landfill to a pre-Westinghouse depth plus 3 feet of buffer zone; incineration of excavated
materials in an approved facility; and periodic groundwater monitoring. The excavation and
incineration activities are contingent on the approval of the permit applications for the
incinerator and a landfill for ash disposal. The permit applications were submitted in the
summer of 1991.
Environmental Progress
By constructing a fence to restrict site access, removing the PCB capacitors, and grading and
installing a synthetic liner cap over the site to limit movement of contaminants from the
property, the potential for exposure to hazardous materials at the Lemon Lane Landfill site
has been reduced while final cleanup activities continue.
Site Repository
Monroe County Public Library, 303 E. Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47491
March 1992 36 LEMON LANE LANDFILL
-------
MAIN STREET WE
FIELD
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980794358
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Elkhart County
Elkhart
Other Names:
Elkhart Main Street Wellfleld
The Main Street Well Field site consists of 15 wells on 10 acres of land in Elkhart. This well
field is the largest of three municipal well fields and supplies about 70 percent of the drinking
water for 40,000 residents of Elkhart. In 1981, during an EPA National Groundwater Supply
Survey, the well field was found to be contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
The EPA resampled water from the well field a month later and discovered elevated
concentrations of VOCs in the water used for consumption and in three production wells.
Monitoring wells were installed by the City, and sampling indicated that two industries on the
eastern boundary of the well field were potential sources of groundwater contamination. In
1982, the City installed two interceptor wells to help prevent further migration of the
contaminant plume. At first the contaminant levels decreased, but between 1983 and 1985,
they gradually increased.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soils contain VOCs including trichloroethylene (TCE).
Individuals who come in direct contact with or accidentally ingest contaminated
groundwater or soil may be at risk.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in four stages: immediate actions and three long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the groundwater, the aquifer, and the soil.
37
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1987, the EPA provided drinking water to approximately
300 residents and extended the water main to six businesses, a church, and 293
homes. Carbon filters were installed in 11 homes.
Groundwater: In 1985, the EPA selected a remedy to provide a potable water
supply by constructing air stripping facilities to remove the contaminated flow from
the Main Street Well Field. Contaminated water is pumped from the aquifer,
treated, and discharged to the existing water treatment plant and distribution system. The
EPA completed all actions involving the installation of the air stripper in 1987.
Aquifer: Based on the results of an investigation of the contaminated aquifer,
the EPA has selected the following remedies: vacuum extraction of VOCs in the
contaminated soil; removal and disposal of contaminants; installation of new well
interceptors to prevent continued plume migration; continued use of the air stripper and
groundwater monitoring, as well as imposing deed restrictions to limit future uses of the site.
The technical design of the approved remedies is currently in development.
Soil: The EPA will conduct an investigation into the type and extent of remaining
soil contamination from the multiple sources contributing to the well field
contamination. Once the investigation is completed, scheduled for 1993, the most
appropriate methods for soil cleanup will be recommended.
Environmental Progress
A potable water supply has been provided to the communities served by the Main Street Well
Field, thereby reducing the potential for exposure to contaminated groundwater. Further
investigations will be conducted to determine the sources of soil contamination while the
selected remedies are being designed to address contamination of the underlying aquifer.
Site Repository
Elkhart Public Library, 300 South 2nd Street, Elkhart, IN 46516
March 1992 38 MAIN STREET WELL FIELD
-------
MARION (BRAGG)
DUMP
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980794366
EPA REGION 5
Grant County
Marion
Site Description
The Marion (Bragg) Dump site covers 72 acres and is located on Central Avenue, just
outside Marion. The area is relatively flat, with the Mississinewa River bordering the site on
the east and the north. The landfill was formerly a gravel pit. The land was leased for the
disposal of various wastes by the Radio Corporation of America and the Bragg Construction
Company, which was closed in 1975. That year a transfer station was opened at the site by
Waste Reduction Systems, which closed in 1977. The dump contains approximately 1,100,000
cubic yards of wastes, some of which are hazardous, including solvents, plasticizers, lead, and
cadmium. Residents in the area depend on groundwater from private and municipal wells for
their water supply. A 15-acre pond in the middle of the landfill is connected to the upper
aquifer. Some of the northern portion of the site is within the 100-year flood plain of the
Mississinewa River.
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
The groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
including benzene and trichloroethene. The soil is contaminated with polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and arsenic. Those who come in direct contact with
or accidentally ingest contaminated groundwater or soil may be at risk, although
the wells in the immediate area, which draw on the aquifer, have not been found
to contain contaminants.
39
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase directed at cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1987, the EPA selected the following remedies for the site:
regrading and capping the site to promote runoff, reduce infiltration, eliminate
leachate seepage, and prevent direct contact with surface soils and exposed waste;
providing and maintaining flood control measures to protect the portions of the site in the
flood plain; constructing and maintaining a fence around the site; replacing private drinking
water wells in the deep aquifer for users within a specified boundary; sealing shallow wells;
conducting supplemental studies to complete investigations of the groundwater and pond; and
operating and maintaining the remedies at the site. Some of the potentially responsible
parties installed a fence around the site, drilled new monitoring wells, and completed capping
the site. The supplemental studies of the groundwater and on-site pond to determine if
further action is needed will continue for two or three years.
Environmental Progress
By constructing a fence around the site and a cap over the site, the potential for exposure to
hazardous materials from the Marion (Bragg) Dump site has been reduced. Further cleanup
activities currently are underway and groundwater studies are ongoing.
Site Repository
Marion Public Library, 600 South Washington Street, Marion, IN 46953.
March 1992 40 MARION (BRAGG) DUMP
-------
MIDCO I
INDIANA
EPAID# IND980615421
EPA REGION 5
Lake County
Gary
Other Names:
Midwest Solvents Recovery
Site Description
The Midwest Solvent Recovery Company (MIDCO) I site is a 4-acre, abandoned industrial
waste recycling, storage, and disposal facility in Gary. Recycling, storing, and disposing of
industrial wastes began at the site some time before 1973. In 1973, approximately 6,000 to
7,000 drums were observed on the site. Later, four bulk tanks, each with a capacity of 4,000
to 10,000 gallons, were found on the site. In 1976, a fire burned approximately 14,000 drums
of chemical waste. Operations resumed in 1977 under new management, but by 1979, the
facility was abandoned, leaving an estimated 14,000 drums stockpiled on site. In 1981, severe
flooding caused water in the area to drain into a neighboring city to the west; contact with
the flood water reportedly resulted in skin burns. Following a fire in 1976, MIDCO I moved
to a new location, known as MIDCO II, which also is on the NPL. Residential neighborhoods
are near the site, with one resident living as close as 900 feet from the site. Twelve drinking
water wells have been identified in the Calumet Aquifer, within approximately a mile from
the site, in the downgradient groundwater flow direction. The Calumet Aquifer is highly
susceptible to contamination from surface sources. The area surrounding the site is mixed
light industrial, commercial, and residential, and contains wetlands.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
41
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
trichloroethylene (TCE), methyl^ne chloride; semi-volatile compounds; metals; and
cyanide. Sediments and soils are contaminated with VOCs, semi-volatiles,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), metals, and chlordane, a pesticide. VOCs,
chromium, lead, cadmium, and cyanide were detected in surface waters northeast
of the site. Sodium and chloride were the most concentrated contaminants found
in the groundwater and surface water. These contaminants may have migrated
from the nearby salt depot of the Indiana Highway Department. Contaminants in
the soil are leaching into the groundwater. The contaminated groundwater in turn
is migrating off site and eventually may affect downgradient drinking water wells.
People who come in direct contact with or accidentally ingest contaminated
groundwater, surface water, sediments, or soil may be at risk. The contamination
also could adversely affect wildlife and plants in or around the wetlands.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: A security fence was installed around the site in 1981. In
1982, to address the immediate threats to the public, the EPA removed extensive
surface wastes, an underground tank, drums, and the top 1 foot of contaminated
soil. Much of the site was then covered with a temporary clay cover.
Entire Site: To address the contaminated subsurface soil, sediment, and
groundwater, the EPA selected the following cleanup actions in 1989: treatment
of approximately 12,400 cubic yards of contaminated soil and subsurface materials
using a combination of soil vapor extraction and solidification/stabilization, followed by on-site
disposal; excavation and on-site solidification/stabilization of approximately 1,200 cubic yards
of contaminated sediment from surrounding wetlands; installation of a final site cover;
installation and operation of a deep underground injection well for disposal of the
contaminated groundwater; installation and operation of a treatment system to remove
hazardous substances from the contaminated groundwater, followed by deep well injection of
the salt-contaminated water, or installation and operation of a treatment system, followed by
reinjection of the salt-contaminated groundwater into the Calumet Aquifer in a manner that
will prevent spreading of the salt plume; groundwater monitoring; and implementation of
deed and access restrictions. The EPA is designing the technical specifications for the
cleanup. Once the design phase is completed, the cleanup activities will begin. In 1992, the
EPA approved an amendment to the selected remedies. The amendment proposed a change
in the method for determining how much soil will be treated.
March 1992 42 MIDCOI
-------
Site Facts: In June 1985, a group of potentially responsible parties agreed to reimburse the
EPA for past cleanup action costs and to perform the site investigation. This Consent Decree
became effective in August 1985. The parties also have agreed to perform final cleanup
activities at the site. The EPA issued an Administrative Order in 1989, instructing the
potentially responsible parties to conduct the remaining site cleanup.
Environmental Progress
The removal of the contaminated materials and soils from the site and the installation of a
fence and a temporary cover have reduced the threat of exposure to hazardous materials
while cleanup actions for the MIDCO I site are being designed.
Site Repository
Gary Public Library, 220 West 5th Avenue, Gary, IN 46402
MIDCO I
43
March 1992
-------
MIDCO II
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980679559
EPA REGION 5
Lake County
Gary
Other Names:
Midwest Industrial Waste Disposal
Company
Site Description
The Midwest Industrial Waste Disposal Company (MIDCO) II site is an abandoned,
industrial waste recycling/disposal facility covering 7 acres in Gary. The operators of the
MIDCO I facility, another NPL site, relocated to the MIDCO II location after a fire in 1976.
Operations at MIDCO II began in 1976 and included temporary bulk liquid and drum storage
of waste and recyclable materials, neutralization of acids and caustics, and on-site dumping of
waste into pits, which allowed wastes to percolate into the groundwater. One of these pits
had an overflow pipe leading into a ditch that drains into the Grand Calumet River. In 1977,
a fire at MIDCO II destroyed equipment, buildings, and an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 drums.
The site was abandoned after the fire. Burned-out drums, drums containing chemical wastes,
12 aboveground tanks with 10,000-gallon capacity, and one underground tank were
abandoned on the site. Approximately 479,000 people live 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: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Contaminants affecting the groundwater include volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) such as benzene, toluene, and trichloroethylene (TCE); other organics
including isoporone; cyanide; and arsenic, lead, and other heavy metals. The
groundwater also is highly contaminated with sodium and potassium chloride.
Sediments and soils are contaminated with similar substances and polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs). Potential health risks exist for individuals include accidentally
ingesting or coming into direct contact with the contaminated soil, sediment, or
groundwater. Migration of contaminants through the groundwater may threaten
the off-site aquifer and downstream wetlands.
44
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: From 1984 to 1989, the EPA repaired and extended the
site fence; sampled and removed all the remaining drums, tanks, and debris from
the site's surface; and excavated the sludge pits and filter pit contents. The
resulting PCB-contaminated pile was removed and disposed of in an off-site hazardous waste
landfill in early 1986. Most of the cyanide-contaminated pile also was removed.
Entire Site: The major components of the remedies selected by the EPA in 1989
are: on-site treatment of an estimated 35,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil and
waste material by solidification/stabilization, with the solidified material
remaining on site; excavation and on-site solidification/stabilization of approximately 500 cubic
yards of contaminated sediments in the ditch adjacent to the northeastern boundary of the
site; installation and operation of a groundwater pump and treat system to intercept and treat
contaminated groundwater; installation and operation of injection wells for disposal of the
treated water; installation of a conduit in the ditch along the site and a final site cover;
restriction of site access and imposition of deed restrictions as appropriate; and related testing
and long-term monitoring. The EPA is designing the technical specifications for the cleanup.
Once the design phase is completed, the cleanup activities will begin. In 1992, the EPA
approved an amendment to the selected remedies. The amendment proposed a change in the
method for determining how much soil will be treated.
Site Facts: In June 1985, a group of potentially responsible parties agreed to reimburse the
EPA for past cleanup action costs and to perform the site investigation. This Consent Decree
became effective in August 1985. In December 1989, the EPA issued an Administrative
Order to the parties to perform the cleanup actions at the MIDCO I and II sites.
Environmental Progress
By fencing the MIDCO II site and removing drums, tanks, and debris, the EPA has reduced
the potential for exposure to hazardous materials while the technical specifications for the
remedies selected for final site cleanup are being prepared by the EPA.
MIDCO II 45 March 1992
-------
Site Repository
Gary Public Library, 220 West 5th Avenue, Gary, IN 46402
March 1992
46
MIDCO
-------
NEAL'S DUMP
(SPENCER)
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980794549
EPA REGION 5
Owen County
Spencer
Site Description
The Neal's Dump site covers approximately 1/2 acre in Spencer. The dump operated from
1967 until 1971, when it was closed. During its operation, the owner accepted electrical
capacitors, oil-stained rags, and sawdust from the Westinghouse facility nearby. The
Westinghouse Electric Corporation, the party potentially responsible for the contamination at
the site, is treating Neal's Dump, as well as three other NPL sites, an inactive city-owned
wastewater treatment plant, and an authorized landfill in the Bloomington area. These sites
are: Neal's Landfill, Lemon Lane Landfill, Bennett Stone Quarry, Winston-Thomas
Treatment Plant, and Anderson Road Landfill. Westinghouse is planning to construct an
incinerator for municipal solid waste that will comply with all applicable local, State, and
Federal laws. After incinerating all the materials removed from the sites, Westinghouse and
the City of Bloomington will determine whether the incinerator should continue to operate as
a municipal solid waste facility or be dismantled. Approximately 175 people live within 1 mile
of the site, and 954 people live within 3 miles. Forty-nine wells are located within a mile of
the site. Located adjacent to the site are natural springs, a stream, and a river.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
The groundwater, surface water, soils, and air are contaminated with
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Potential health risks exist for individuals who
accidentally ingest or come into direct contact with the contaminants or those who
inhale contaminated particulates in the air on the site.
47
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
immediate Actions: In the mid-1980s, under the EPA's monitoring, the parties
potentially responsible for the contamination installed a cap and constructed a
security fence and a surface drainage control system. The work was completed in
1990.
Entire Site: The Westinghouse Electric Corporation, under monitoring by the
EPA, will conduct the following cleanup actions: excavate all contaminated
materials plus a 2-foot buffer zone; incinerate excavated materials in an approved
facility; and monitor groundwater. The Westinghouse Electric Company is currently designing
the technologies to be used in the cleanup. In the summer of 1991, permit applications were
submitted for constructing the incinerator and for landfilling its waste by-product ash.
Construction of a high-temperature incinerator for the excavated materials is expected to
begin in 1993. Upon completion of the incinerator construction, the Lemon Lane Landfill,
Neal's Dump, Neal's Landfill and Bennett's Dump sites will be excavated in a prescribed
order.
Environmental Progress
By constructing a security fence, capping the site, and installing a drainage control system, the
parties potentially responsible for site contamination have reduced the potential for exposure
to hazardous materials at the Neal's Dump site while final cleanup actions are being
designed.
Site Repository
Monroe County Public Library, 303 E. Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47491
March 1992 48 NEAL'S DUMP (SPENCER)
-------
MEAL'S LANDFIL
(BLOOMINGTON
INDIANA
EPA ID#IND980614556
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Monroe County
Bloomington
The Neal's Landfill (Bloomington) site covers approximately 18 acres in Bloomington. The
site was used as an industrial and municipal waste landfill from 1950 to 1972. The main fill
area measures about 300 yards. Later, the landfill was used as a pasture for beef cattle. A
number of springs surface near the site and flow to Richland Creek, a tributary of the White
River. In 1966 and 1967, capacitors and arrestors containing polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBs), as well as PCB-contaminated capacitor insulation material, rags, and filter clay, were
disposed of at the landfill. Capacitors and other contaminated materials are visible on the
surface. PCBs have been found in surface soils in the northeast portion of the landfill, the
springs near the site, and the sediments of Richard Creek. The Westinghouse Electric
Corporation, the party potentially responsible for the contamination at the site, is treating
Meal's Landfill (Bloomington) site, as well as three other NPL sites, an inactive City-owned
wastewater treatment plant, and an authorized landfill in the Bloomington area. These areas
are Neal's Dump, Lemon Lane Landfill, Bennett's Dump, Winston-Thomas Treatment Plant,
and Anderson Road Landfill. Approximately 121 people live within a mile of the site, and
about 1,085 people live within 3 miles of the site. Conard's Branch and Richland Creek are
nearby.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/22/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
L\
Groundwater, surface water, sediments, and soils are contaminated with PCBs
from materials dumped at the landfill. Potential health risks exist for individuals
who accidentally ingest or come into direct contact with these contaminants.
49
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Under the EPA's monitoring, the parties potentially
responsible for the contamination installed a cap, erosion control fences, a
security fence, and drainage control trenches. Warning signs have been posted
along Conard's Branch and Richland Creek. A sediment collection system also was installed
at Conard's Branch. Westinghouse removed PCB-contaminated sediments from Richland
Creek and Conard's Branch in late 1989. A treatment plant has been constructed by
Westinghouse to treat spring water discharge from Neal's Landfill.
Entire Site: In 1988, Westinghouse began a cleanup program, including:
excavating all 4,060 tons of sediment from Conard's Branch; storing excavated
materials in an approved facility until an approved incinerator and by-product
disposal area are developed; operating a carbon treatment system for spring water discharges;
and monitoring the groundwater. Excavation and incineration of landfill materials will occur
when the incinerator and ash landfill permits are issued. Westinghouse is conducting a dye
trace study to investigate groundwater flow patterns from Neal's Landfill and is waiting for a
sufficient rainfall to trigger a "high flow" in the water table to make this study as
comprehensive as possible. Groundwater monitoring occurs on a quarterly basis for on-site
wells. The spring water treatment plant has been operational since early 1990. Dye trace
testing began in April 1992 and sampling was completed in June 1992. Removal of sediments
from mouths of springs is ongoing.
Environmental Progress
Immediate actions including capping and fencing the landfill and long-term activities including
excavating sediment, treating the spring water, and groundwater monitoring have reduced the
potential for exposure to hazardous materials at the Neal's Landfill (Bloomington) site while
final cleanup actions are being completed.
Site Repository
Monroe County Public Library, 303 E. Kirkwook Ave., Bloomington, IN 47491
March 1992 50 NEAL'S LANDFILL (BLOOMINGTON)
-------
NINTH AVENUE
DUMP
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980794432
EPA REGION 5
Lake County
Gary
Site Description
The Ninth Avenue Dump site is located on 17 acres in an industrialized area within the city
limits of Gary, Indiana. From 1973 until 1975, the site was used for the disposal of liquid
hazardous waste, with some dumping occurring until 1980. Disposal operations included
dumping wood debris into marshy areas, pouring liquid waste onto the debris, and covering
the area with fill material. During a site inspection conducted in 1975, the Indiana State
Board of Health (ISBH) estimated that 500,000 gallons of liquid industrial waste had been
dumped at the site. When operations ceased at the dump, several thousand drums and some
tankers of waste remained on site. The owner began removing some site debris, but in the
fall of 1980, disposal operations at the site were halted when the EPA filed suit against the
site owners and operators under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). In
1981, heavy rains caused severe flooding in the area surrounding the dump, and runoff from
the site flowed into the Hessville neighborhood, flooding streets and basements of homes. In
order to control surface water drainage from the site, Hammond City officials ordered the
construction of a dirt dike. The dike currently remains intact and prevents water from flowing
into Hammond from Gary. The Ninth Avenue Dump site lies approximately 700 feet north of
the MIDCO I NPL site and is close to several other potential sources of contaminants.
Approximately 33,000 people live within a 2-mile radius of the site, with the nearest
residential area located approximately 800 feet west of the site. The site is adjacent to several
ponds and a wetland area.
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
51
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
benzene, toluene, and xylenes; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); and
heavy metals including nickel and silver. On-site groundwater contains a
hydrocarbon layer containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), pesticides, VOCs,
and PAHs. PAHs, toluene, cadmium, and lead were detected in off-site surface
soil. On-site sediment samples contained PAHs and PCBs. Accidental ingestion of
contaminated groundwater, surface water, soil, or sediments may present health
risks. Groundwater monitoring at the nearest active private drinking well did not
detect any site-related contaminants. The fence installed around the perimeter of
the site has been vandalized, and trespassing occurs frequently, increasing the
potential for individuals to come into direct contact with the contaminants.
Migratory birds and other wildlife are abundant in the on- and off-site wetlands,
and contamination could harm them.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the oil layer and cleanup of the soil, sediment and
groundwater.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The site owner removed and disposed of 10,000 drums,
tank cars, and the first foot of contaminated surface soils from the site from 1984
to 1985. The EPA fenced the site in 1987 to restrict public access. In addition, a
24-hour guard is posted at the entrance.
Oil Layer: In 1988, the EPA selected cleanup actions to contain the
oil-contaminated portion of the site and to extract the oil layer floating on the
groundwater. The remedy includes: construction of a soil-bentonite slurry wall to
completely surround the oil layer; installation of an oil/groundwater extraction and recharge
system; installation of an on-site groundwater treatment system to allow for dewatering of the
slurry wall; monitoring of groundwater inside and outside the slurry wall to ensure its
effectiveness; and installation of an on-site oil storage tank. The oil layer is estimated to be
250,000 to 700,000 gallons, of which 100,000 to 500,000 may be recoverable. The design of
the slurry wall was completed by the potentially responsible parties in 1990. Construction of
the slurry wall is underway. The design of the oil recovery/groundwater treatment was
completed in mid-1991. Construction of the system began shortly thereafter. Both phases of
construction are scheduled to be completed by 1993.
March 1992 52 NINTH AVENUE DUMP
-------
Soil, Sediment and Groundwater: This phase addresses the remaining threats
to the site, which include contaminated soil, sediment, fill material, groundwater,
and oil collected and stored in the on-site storage tanks. In 1989, the EPA selected
the following actions for cleanup of the site: excavation of approximately 36,000 cubic yards
of oil-contaminated waste and fill down to the native sand level; thermal treatment of
excavated fill and extracted oil, most likely in a mobile on-site incinerator; removal of debris
and contaminated sediments from on- and off-site surface water bodies; filling the excavated
area with treatment process residuals, trench spoils, pond sediments, and debris; covering the
area contained by the slurry wall with a cap; extraction, treatment, and reinjection of
contaminated groundwater inside the slurry wall to promote soil flushing; discharge of a small
quantity of treated groundwater outside the slurry wall to compensate for infiltration; deed
and access restrictions to prohibit the use of the groundwater under the site and to protect
the cap; and long-term groundwater monitoring. The potentially responsible parties began
design of this remedy in 1989. Actual cleanup began in mid-1991.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree was signed by the owner and the EPA in December 1983,
requiring the owner to remove wastes from the site and to determine the type and extent of
site contamination. An order was issued by the EPA to the potentially responsible parties in
December 1988, requiring cleanup of the oil-contaminated portions of the site, as well as the
soil, sediment and groundwater. A second order was issued in August 1989, requiring the
potentially responsible parties to perform additional design studies and cleanup of the soil and
groundwater.
Environmental Progress
By removing the most heavily contaminated materials; fencing in the site; and posting a guard
at the entrance 24 hours a day to restrict access, the potential for exposure to hazardous
materials on the Ninth Avenue Dump site has been reduced while final cleanup actions are
being designed and completed.
Site Repository
Gary Public Library, 220 West 5th Avenue, Gary, IN 46402
NINTH AVENUE DUMP 53 March 1992
-------
NORTHSIDE SAN
LANDFILL, INC.
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND050530872
EPA REGION 5
Boone County
Zionsville
Site Description
The Northside Sanitary Landfill (NSL) covers approximately 70 acres of a 170-acre parcel of
land. The site is located in Union Township, about 10 miles northwest of Indianapolis. Over
16 million gallons of hazardous wastes have been deposited in the landfill. The NSL opened
in the 1950s as an open dump and was licensed by the State in 1971 to accept hazardous
wastes. From 1972 to 1973, numerous operating deficiencies, including the failure to cover
refuse, surface burning, underground fires, leachate, and vermin problems resulted in orders
from the Indiana State Board of Health (ISBH) to cease operations. In 1982, the owner, at
the direction of the ISBH, installed a leachate collection system and three submerged
leachate collection tanks on the western side of the site. After the owner removed 400,000
gallons of leachate from the three tanks and disposed of it by spraying it on the landfill, the
Indiana Division of Land Pollution Control advised the owner that leachate would have to be
solidified prior to disposal. By early 1983, the State Environmental Management Board issued
a notice of violation and ordered the owner to stop accepting hazardous waste. A small
residential community, Northfield, is located to the north of the site. Approximately 50
residences are located within a mile of the site, and 1,750 residences within 3 miles of the site
use wells for drinking water. An unnamed ditch runs along the western edge of the landfill
and joins Finley Creek. Finley Creek flows into Eagle Creek about 1/2 mile downstream from
the site. Eagle Creek flows south for 10 miles before it empties into Eagle Creek Reservoir,
which supplies approximately 6 percent of the drinking water for the City of Indianapolis.
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
54
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
Groundwater, soils, surface water, and sediments are contaminated with pesticides,
acids, oils, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including benzene and
trichloroethylene (TCE). Potential health risks exist from accidental ingestion of
contaminated soils and sediments. Drinking contaminated groundwater also may
pose health risks, as may the consumption of fish from Finley Creek that have
bioaccumulated contaminants in their tissues. Contamination in the creek may
harm wildlife in or around the water.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1987, the EPA selected the following remedies to address the
contamination at the site: deed and access restrictions to prevent further
development of the site; installation of a multi-layer cap over the site; re-routing
of surface waters to reduce the potential for contamination migration; leachate collection and
treatment; groundwater collection and treatment; and monitoring to ensure treatment
effectiveness. The EPA has completed most of the field work necessary to design the site
cleanup activities. Once the design activities are completed, final cleanup will begin. A 1991
amendment to the remedies selected for Northside Sanitary Landfill called for a pipeline to
be constructed for the Indianapolis publicly owned treatment works.
Site Facts: The EPA has reached an agreement with the potentially responsible parties to
assume responsibility for the cleanup action. The Northside Sanitary Landfill Site is located
near the Envirochem Corporation, another site on the NPL.
Environmental Progress
After adding the Northside Sanitary Landfill, Inc. site to the NPL, the EPA performed
preliminary investigations and determined that the site does not pose an imminent threat to
the surrounding communities or the environment while final cleanup remedies are being
planned.
NORTHSIDE SANITARY LANDFILL, INC. 55 March 1992
-------
Site Repository
Hussey Memorial Library, 225 West Hawthorne, Zionsville, IN 46077
March 1992 56 NORTHSIDE SANITARY LANDFILL, INC.
-------
POER FARM
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980684583
EPA REGION 5
Hancock County
3 miles north of Wilkinson, 5 miles
southeast of Knightstown
Other Names:
Norman Poer Farm
Site Description
Poer Farm is a 5-acre site located on a small hill between two streams and along East County
Road about 3 miles north of Wilkinson. The site is an abandoned tract of land with a house
and barn that have collapsed and have been vandalized. The surrounding area is open
farmland that supports crops of soybeans and corn. The site consists of three separate areas
where Norman Poer and Michael Coleman received and stored about 275 drums of solvents
and paint resins from 1973 until 1983. The owners planned to blend these materials into
low-quality paint for bridges and barns. They abandoned the project and left the 55-gallon
drums on the site. The EPA inspected the site and found that the drums were leaking, and
vegetation surrounding the area was damaged. The EPA analyzed the drums and soils
underneath them and found volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals.
Agricultural lands completely surround the Poer Farm site, and the nearest residence is
approximately 650 feet to the north. Approximately 500 people live 3 miles north of the site
in Wilkinson, and approximately 2,300 people live 5 miles away in Knightstown.
Site Responsibility: This site was addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 10/21/84
Deleted Date: 02/11/91
Threats and Contaminants
Soils on site contained VOCs including toluene, xylene, and ethyl benzene and
heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and lead. The EPA sampled the entire site
following emergency actions and found no significant levels of contamination that
could pose a threat to the environment. Therefore, people near the site are not at
risk from exposure to hazardous chemicals.
57
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site was addressed through emergency actions; further investigations showed that no
other cleanup actions were required.
Response Action Status
Emergency Actions: In 1983, the EPA removed all wastes and 6 to 8 inches of
soils from the drum storage areas on site. All solid and liquid wastes from the
drums were properly disposed of at EPA-regulated landfills. The well on site was
sampled, and results showed that the levels of arsenic, cadmium, and lead were at or below
the State and Federal standards for drinking water. The site was fenced, and signs to warn
the public of contaminants were posted.
Entire Site: The EPA completed a study of the nature and extent of
contamination at the site in 1985. The party potentially responsible for
contamination at the site completed a second study in 1988, under the EPA's
monitoring. The purpose of the second study was to determine if the immediate cleanup
actions at the site were effective and to ensure that no significant contamination remained at
the site that could threaten the health of people around it. Based on the results of the
second study, the EPA determined that no further action is needed at the Poer Farm site and
deleted the site from the NPL on February 11, 1991.
Site Facts: In 1985, a potentially responsible party signed a Consent Order with the EPA
and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, under which the party agreed to
reimburse the EPA for past response action costs and to carry out the study of the nature
and extent of contamination at the site.
Environmental Progress
The removal and disposal of hazardous waste and contaminated soils from the Poer Farm site
have eliminated the threat to human health and the surrounding environment. The EPA, in
conjunction with the State of Indiana, has deleted the Poer Farm site from the NPL.
Site Repository
Not established.
March 1992 58 POER FARM
-------
PRESTOLITE
DIVISION
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND006377048
EPA REGION 5
Knox County
Northeast of Vincennes
Other Names:
Eltra Corporation -
Prestollte Battery Division
Site Description
The 17 1/2-acre Prestolite Battery Division site is an inactive facility that manufactured
lead-acid batteries. The Autolite Battery Corporation set up the plant in 1945. Several
companies owned and operated the facility until Allied Chemical Company, the latest owner
of the site, ceased operations and closed the plant in 1985. Allied received a permit allowing
it to temporarily operate the site, but decided to close before obtaining a long-term operating
permit for the plant. Wastewaters from the plant's operations were contaminated with lead
and sulfuric acid. Prior to 1978, the plant discharged its wastewaters directly to the Vincennes
Sanitary Sewer System. From 1978 until the plant closed in 1985, the plant treated its
wastewaters and then released them to a lagoon on site. The Vincennes Treatment Works
accepted the overflow from the lagoon. The plant also released air contaminated with lead.
Soil on site and in the area has been contaminated with lead, mainly from airborne particles.
Malfunctions of equipment on site and accidental spills also have contributed to the
contamination of soils. During the plant's operations, industrial sewer lines at the site became
plugged with lead, and as a result of leaks and sewer line backups, the soil around some of
these sewers and sumps became contaminated with lead. Soil on the site also was
contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The manufacturing building on site
remains intact, although all process equipment has been removed from inside the building. A
fence encloses the site. The site is located within the flood plain of the Wabash River, which
is 5,000 feet west of the site. Surface water from the site drains to Kelso Creek and Snapp
Creek; both creeks are 3/4 mile from the site. The closest residence is 50 feet from the site,
and there are approximately 500 people within a mile of the site. The city of Vincennes
maintains seven wells for its supply, located 3 miles from the site. Private wells also are
located in the area around the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 10/04/89
59
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Air, groundwater, soils, and surface water are contaminated with lead. Soils also
are contaminated with PCBs. People who come in direct contact with or
accidentally ingest contaminated groundwater, soil, or surface water may suffer
adverse health effects. People also may be exposed to contaminants by inhaling
dust particles.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1989, the party potentially responsible for site
contamination removed more than 6,800 cubic yards of lead-contaminated
sediment from the site. Soils from known areas of PCB contamination also have
been excavated and removed from the site. A concrete-lined wastewater storage lagoon has
been emptied and cleaned. The lagoon area is surrounded by a fence to limit access. Sewer
lines that run under the manufacturing building have been capped. Disturbed soils and fill
material remain where wastewater sewer lines and contaminated soils were excavated.
Entire Site: In 1988, the EPA started an investigation to define the nature and
extent of pollutants at the site. This study is examining the effectiveness of the
immediate cleanup actions and is defining the threat that remaining contamination
at the site poses to the health of people living and working in the area. The study also is
evaluating the various options for addressing the final cleanup of the site. The first phase
of field work is complete. The second phase is currently underway and is expected to be
completed in early 1993.
Environmental Progress
The removal of contaminated sediments and soils and the installation of a fence around the
lagoon have reduced the potential of exposure to hazardous materials at the Prestolite
Battery Division site while final studies are taking place and cleanup activities are being
planned.
March 1992 60 PRESTOLITE BATTERY DIVISION
-------
Site Repository
Knox County Public Library, 502 North 7th Street, Vincennes, IN 47591
PRESTOLJTE BATTERY DIVISION
61
March 1992
-------
REILLY TAR &
CHEMICAL CORP.
(INDIANAP
PLANT)
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND000807107I
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Marion County
Indianapolis
The 120-acre Reilly Tar & Chemical Corporation site has been used for the production of
specialty chemicals and related products since the early 1950s. Until 1972, a coal-tar refining
and wood-treatment facility using creosote operated on the site. Located on site are a trench,
a landfill, and several pits used to dispose of wastes. A lime pond received boiler cooling
water. The site is fenced. There are approximately 5,200 residents within 3 miles of the site
using groundwater for drinking water supplies. A residence is located less than 2,000 feet
from the site. All residents now have city water available to them, although private wells still
are in use.
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
L\
Groundwater and surface water are contaminated with creosotes and ammonia.
Soil is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including toluene.
The potential health risks include coming in direct contact with or accidentally
ingesting contaminated groundwater, surface water, or soil.
62
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: A potentially responsible party, Reilly Industries, Inc., currently is
conducting an investigation, under EPA monitoring, into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site. The investigation is defining the contaminants and will
recommend alternatives for the final cleanup. The investigation is scheduled to be completed
in mid-1992. Shortly thereafter, the EPA will select the final cleanup strategy for the site.
Site Facts: Reilly Industries, Inc. has entered into a Consent Order with the EPA. The
company agreed to conduct the study into the nature and extent of contamination at the site
and to recommend alternatives for final cleanup.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Reilly Tar and Chemical
Corporation site while studies are taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library, 40 East St. Clair Street, Indianapolis, IN 46206
REILLY TAR & CHEMICAL CORP. 63 March 1992
(INDIANAPOLIS PLANT)
-------
SEYMOUR
RECYCLING
CORPORATION!^
INDIANA
EPAID#IND040313017
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Jackson County
2 miles southwest of Seymour
The 14-acre Seymour Recycling Corporation site is made up of two parts: a 12-acre area
surrounded by a berm and fence to confine rainwater and prevent access to the site, and a
2-acre area located directly to the northeast of the larger area. From 1970 to 1980, the site
was operated as a processing center for waste chemicals. Wastes were accumulated on site in
drums, bulk storage tanks, and tank trucks. By 1980, there were approximately 98 storage
tanks and 50,000 drums on site. The majority of the drums were rusted and punctured, some
were missing lids, and a large number leaked. The leaks caused contaminants to cover a
widespread area, toxic vapors to be released from the site, and on-site fires. The facility
closed in 1980. Surface drums and tanks and their contents were removed in 1981 and 1982.
Contaminated soils continue to pollute the aquifers. The shallow aquifer is highly
contaminated with various hazardous chemicals including volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Approximately 100 homes are located within 1 mile of the site. Most private water supply
wells for these residences have been disconnected and replaced with water from the City of
Seymour water supply system. Contaminated runoff from the site entered nearby drainage
ditches that flow into the White River and then to the Ohio River. Releases of contaminants
from the site resulted in fish kills.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/22/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains VOCs, chloroform, phenols, and heavy metals including
arsenic, barium, iron, and manganese. Soils are contaminated with high levels of
VOCs and heavy metals including beryllium. People could be exposed to
contaminants by accidentally coming in direct contact with or ingesting
contaminated groundwater or soil. People who eat contaminated fish may suffer
adverse health effects.
64
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on groundwater cleanup and soil cleanup.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: As a result of a fire in 1980, chemical runoff from the site
posed a risk to nearby residents. Approximately 300 people were temporarily
relocated and the parties potentially responsible for site contamination removed
several thousand drums from the site. In 1981, the EPA removed chemicals from tanks at the
site and disposed of those wastes off site. A dike was installed around the site to prevent
rainfall from mixing with wastes on the ground. The site fence was upgraded. The surface
water treatment plant located on site was upgraded in 1982. From 1982 to 1984, potentially
responsible parties removed approximately 50,000 drums, 100 storage tanks, and
contaminated soil from 75 percent of the site's surface and partially covered the site with a
temporary soil cap. Homes surrounding the site were connected to the city water distribution
system in 1984 and 1985 due to the threat of groundwater contamination. A total of 177,500
gallons of flammable liquids were incinerated. Approximately 31,800 cubic yards of crushed
drums, scrap metal, sludge, and contaminated soil and debris, 359 lab packs of sludge, and
296 drums of flammable solids were landfilled. Approximately 104,200 gallons of inert liquids
were injected into a deep well. Warning signs have been posted, and a 24-hour guard will
remain at the site throughout construction activities.
Groundwater: The selected cleanup remedy to address the groundwater plume
includes implementation of a plume stabilization system that will extract, treat, and
discharge contaminated groundwater to the Seymour Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The potentially responsible parties constructed the groundwater pump and treat system, which
is operational. In order to sufficiently reduce contamination at the site, the groundwater
extraction and pump and treat system may have to be operated for up to 30 years. A third
extraction well and line will be constructed.
Soil: The selected cleanup remedies to address soil contamination include: putting
in place deed and access restrictions and other controls to prevent future
development of the site and the adjacent property; breaking down hazardous
components of the soil through bioremediation; installing a soil vapor extraction system;
extracting and treating contaminated groundwater at and beyond the site boundaries;
installing a cap; excavating contaminated sediment and consolidating sediment beneath the
cap; and regular monitoring to determine the effectiveness of these cleanup activities. The
potentially responsible parties have completed construction of the soil cap. The vapor
extraction system has been constructed and is planned to be operated for 2 to 5 years. The
soil bioremediation remedy has been completed. All soil cleanup components have been
constructed. Air monitoring stations will be constructed.
SEYMOUR RECYCLING CORPORATION 65 March 1992
-------
Site Facts: In 1988, the EPA, the State, and potentially responsible parties entered into a
Consent Decree. The Decree requires the parties to reimburse the Federal government for
past cleanup costs and to perform and pay for future cleanup activities.
Environmental Progress
The removal of drums, soils, and storage tanks, construction of the dike, and connecting
residents to the city water system have reduced the potential for exposure to contaminated
materials at the Seymour Recycling Corporation site. Ongoing cleanup actions continue to
reduce contamination levels in the soil and groundwater.
Site Repository
Jackson County Public Library, 2nd & Walnut Streets, Seymour, IN 47274
March 1992
66
SEYMOUR RECYCLING CORPORATION
-------
SOUTHSIDE SANI
LANDFILL
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980607360
EPA REGION 5
Marion County
Southwest of Indianapolis
Other Names:
Southside Sanitary
Disposal & Transfer Co., Inc.
Site Description
The 160-acre Southside Sanitary Landfill is an active solid waste disposal facility that began
landfllling activities in 1971. In 1974, the 34 acres on the northern side of the site were
licensed by the County and the State for disposal of solid wastes. After the first excavated
area was filled by dumping refuse and covered with a layer of dirt, a second area was
excavated 150 feet to the south. After these areas were filled, the land between the two was
excavated. In 1975, the site was expanded to 160 acres. An estimated 4 million cubic yards of
waste including coal tar, asbestos, iron oxide and clarifier sludges, and paint waste have been
buried at the landfill. Access to the site is restricted. Approximately 7,200 people, within 3
miles of the site, use groundwater for drinking water supplies. The distance from the site to
the nearest residence is 1/2 mile. Approximately 2,000 private wells are located within 3 miles
of the site. Nearby Eagle Creek, White River, and Fall River are used for recreational
activities.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals including arsenic, chromium,
cadmium, and nickel. On-site soils are contaminated with polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs). Potential health threats to people include coming in direct
contact with or accidentally ingesting contaminated groundwater or soil.
67
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1988, the operators of the Southside Landfill constructed a
leachate collection system and an underground slurry wall to control the migration
of contaminated groundwater.
Entire Site: The owners/operators of the Southside Landfill, under State
monitoring, currently are conducting an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site. The investigation is defining the contaminants and will
result in the selection of the final cleanup remedies. The investigation is scheduled to be
completed in the winter of 1993.
Site Facts: In 1986, the State and Southside Landfill entered into an agreement, requiring
that the company construct a leachate collection system and an underground slurry wall to
control the migration of groundwater.
Environmental Progress
The construction of a leachate collection system and underground slurry wall has prevented
the migration of contaminated groundwater at the Southside Sanitary Landfill site while
studies are taking place and final cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Indianapolis Public Library, 40 East St. Clair Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
March 1992
68
SOUTHSIDE SANITARY LANDFILL
-------
TIPPECANOE
SANITARY LAND
INC.
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980997
EPA REGION 5
Tippecanoe County
Lafayette
Site Description
In 1971, the 70-acre Tippecanoe Sanitary Landfill received a permit from the State. The
principal wastes disposed of at the site have been garbage and refuse generated by the local
residents, businesses, and industries. Some out-of-state wastes have also been sent there. In
1979, ALCOA advised the State that the sludge material that it had been sending to the
landfill since 1973 had been found to contain significant levels of polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBs). Disposal of the sludge ceased, but considerable quantities had already been
deposited at the site. The Indiana State Board of Health has verified groundwater
contamination at the site. In 1989, the facility discontinued accepting wastes. Approximately
81,000 people obtain drinking water from public and private wells within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Sludge
buried at the site contains PCBs. The contaminated groundwater is a potential
health threat to individuals if it is accidentally directly contacted or swallowed.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
69
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: Some of the parties potentially responsible for site contamination
agreed to conduct an investigation to determine the nature and extent of
contamination and to identify alternative cleanup actions. The work plan for the
investigation was approved and field work began in 1991. Completion of the study is
scheduled for early 1994.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree signed in 1988 ordered the owner to close the landfill by
October 1989 and install a cover over the wastes. The owner filed for bankruptcy in 1989,
and the cover was not fully installed. In March 1990, the EPA, the Indiana Department of
Environmental Management, and 10 of the potentially responsible parties signed a Consent
Order, requiring the parties to conduct site investigations.
Environmental Progress
After proposing this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and
determined that no immediate actions were required at the Tippecanoe Sanitary Landfill site
while studies are conducted and cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Tippecanoe County Public Library, 627 South Street, Lafayette, IN 47901
March 1992 70 TIPPECANOE SANITARY LANDFILL, INC.
-------
TRI-STATE P
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND006038764
EPA REGION 5
Bartholomew County
Columbus
Site Description
For approximately 35 years prior to 1981, the Tri-State Plating site was used by Hull
Industries and Quality Plating Service Company. The site covers an area of approximately
16,000 square feet. In 1981, Tri-State Plating purchased the facility and began an
electroplating operation. Contamination problems first were detected at the site when the
Bartholomew County Health Department and the Indiana State Board of Health (ISBH)
inspected the site and found that soils contained high concentrations of cyanide and other
heavy metals. In 1984, after finding that Tri-State Plating was discharging contaminated
wastewater, the City of Columbus instructed the company to install a treatment system to
control contaminated wastewater discharges to the city's sewers. Later in 1984, when a
treatment system was not installed, the city blocked off sewers leading from the Tri-State
Plating facility and shut off the company's water supply. Tri-State Plating discontinued
operations in 1984. The nearest residence is adjacent to the site boundary. The City of
Columbus has approximately 30,000 people, some of whom are served by a well field located
near the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
II
The groundwater is contaminated with chromium. The soil was contaminated with
heavy metals including cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, and arsenic. The
contaminated groundwater could be hazardous to the health of individuals if it is
accidentally touched or swallowed before cleanup is completed. Haw Creek and
the White River, which are located nearby, had a potential of being contaminated
by the hazardous materials present at the site.
71
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1987, the EPA constructed a fence around the entire site and
removed 27 barrels of waste to an off-site treatment facility. The EPA also took
steps to decontaminate the electroplating process building and storage shed. In
addition, a trench at the main electroplating process building and contaminated surface soil
were excavated and disposed of at an off-site landfill. After the soil was removed, the EPA
covered excavated areas with clean soil. These actions have eliminated the sources of soil
contamination. In 1989, the EPA took the following actions to remove the contaminants from
the site: decontaminated the walls and ceilings of the main process building and demolished
the building; transported the building debris to an off-site landfill; excavated contaminated
soil and the contaminated building foundation and disposed of excavated material at an
off-site waste landfill; and filled the excavated areas with clean soil, graded the surface of the
ground, and reseeded the graded area. Upon completion of these actions, the fence was
removed.
Entire Site: The EPA completed an investigation in 1990 that determined the
nature and extent of the site contamination and recommended that the
contaminated groundwater be pumped and treated and then discharged to the
publicly owned water treatment works. The pump and treat system design was approved in
early 1991. Construction of the treatment system has been completed and groundwater
pumping and treatment was initiated in early 1992. Groundwater treatment will continue until
cleanup goals are met. During the course of the investigation and while demolishing the main
building, the EPA found asbestos-bearing materials. These materials were removed and
transferred to a licensed disposal facility.
Environmental Progress
Pumping and treating groundwater, excavating contaminated soils and debris, and demolishing
the contaminated building have reduced the potential of exposure to contaminated materials
at the Tri-State Plating site.
Site Repository
Bartholomew County Health Department, 440 3rd Street, Suite 303, Columbus, IN 47201
March 1992 72 TRI-STATE PLATING
-------
U.S. SMELTER
AND LEAD REF
INC.
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND047030226
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Lake County
East Chicago
The former site of the U.S. Smelter and Lead Refinery, Inc. (USS Lead) operation is located
on a 79-acre parcel of land in East Chicago, Indiana. The area is primarily industrial. The
Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad is located to the north of the site, the East West Toll Road
and the east branch of the Grand Calumet River to the south, Kennedy Avenue to the east,
and Indiana Harbor Canal to the west. From 1906 to 1920, USS Lead operated primarily as a
copper smelter. In 1920 the company added a primary lead smelter to its operation. USS
Lead converted to secondary smelting in 1973, recovering lead from scrap metal and old
automobile batteries. All operations were discontinued in 1985. Two primary waste materials
were generated as a result of the smelting operations: blast furnace slag and lead-containing
dust emitted by the blast furnace stack. Blast furnace slag was stockpiled south of the plant
building and once a year spread over an adjoining 21 acres of wetlands. The lead-containing
dust was originally trapped in bag filters and stored in a three to five acre area for future
recycling. In 1973 a larger blast furnace was installed to recycle both new and stockpiled dust.
Significant amounts of the dust were later contained in a building to prevent dispersion.
However, dust has spread throughout the building with increasing dilapidation. Substantial
amounts of dust remain on site. In 1975 and 1985, USS Lead received a National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to discharge furnace cooling water and storm
water run-off to the Grand Calumet River. According to the Indiana Department of
Environmental Management (IDEM), permit levels were exceeded for several materials. In
the 1980s, several State and Federal enforcement actions were taken against the company.
As a result of the permit violations and the dumping of slag water into the wetlands, nearby
surface waters are contaminated. In September 1985, the Indiana State Board of Health
(ISBH) found USS Lead in violation of State law because lead particles were found
downwind of the site. Approximately 4.1 million people draw drinking water from intakes
primarily into Lake Michigan, which is 15 miles downstream of where hazardous substances
from the site enter surface water. Lake Michigan, the Grand Calumet River and Indiana
Harbor Canal are nearby fishing areas. The Grand Calumet River Natural Area, located a
quarter mile southeast of the site, has two endangered species. Hammond Beach Marina is
four miles west of where the canal enters Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan, Wahala Beach and
several other major recreation areas are within 15 miles of the site. Seventy five hundred
people work or attend school within two miles of the site.
73
March 1992
-------
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
Threats and Contaminants
Z1AJ
Elevated levels of lead exist in the blast furnace slag. Substantial amounts of
lead-containing dust have permeated the building, contaminating the structure and
surrounding soils. According to IDEM, the permit levels for lead, cadmium,
copper, arsenic and zinc over the years were exceeded. These permit violations as
well as the dumping of blast furnace slag water into wetlands have led to surface
water contamination. In addition, air is contaminated with lead particles downwind
of the site.
Cleanup Approach
This site is planned to be addressed through a long-term remedial action focusing on cleanup
of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: A comprehensive investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site is scheduled to begin in early 1993. Cleanup remedies
will be selected based on the result of this investigation.
Site Facts: In the 1980's, several State and Federal enforcement actions were taken against
USS Lead for permit violations. In April of 1990, IDEM drafted a Partial Interim Agreement
Order mandating that USS Lead develop a site cleanup plan. USS Lead's parent company,
Sharon Steel Corp., offered to lend USS Lead the funds to comply with the cleanup
requirements. Sharon Steel, however, subsequently filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 11 of
the Federal Bankruptcy Code.
March 1992 74 U.S. SMELTER AND LEAD REFINERY, INC.
-------
Environmental Progress
Initial investigations indicate the U.S. Smelter and Lead Refinery, Inc. site poses no
immediate threat to the health and safety of the nearby population while the site awaits
additional investigations.
Site Repository
Not established.
U.S. SMELTER AND LEAD REFINERY, INC.
75
March 1992
-------
WASTE, INC.
LANDFILL
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND98050400S
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
Laporte County
Michigan City
The Waste, Inc. Landfill in Michigan City is composed of 32 acres situated on a former
wetland area. From 1966 to 1982, the landfill accepted approximately 128,000 tons of
industrial wastes. The landfill was unlined, and there were no dikes to control runoff.
Originally, the site sloped down to a creek, but now the landfill rises 50 feet above the
surrounding terrain. In 1983, the site was sampled by the EPA, and heavy metals, polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and other organic
compounds were found in the sediment of Trail Creek, which borders the landfill.
Approximately 11,300 people live within a mile of the site, and about 2,100 people depend on
private wells within 3 miles of the site for their drinking water. The site drains into Trail
Creek, which is used for recreational purposes and discharges to Lake Michigan. The
Michigan City Water Works, serving approximately 32,000 people, draws water from intakes
in Lake Michigan less than 3 miles downstream from the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 04/10/85
Final Date: 07/21/87
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
Groundwater and soils may be contaminated with volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), PCBs, PAHs, various phthalates, and heavy metals. Sediments in Trail
Creek contain heavy metals including arsenic, lead, and manganese; PAHs; PCBs;
and other organic compounds. People may be exposed to contaminants by
accidentally ingesting or coming in direct contact with contaminated soil, leachate,
groundwater, surface water, or sediment. Eating fish, waterfowl, or locally grown
vegetables containing accumulated contaminants may pose a health hazard.
76
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The parties potentially responsible for the contamination at the site
are conducting an investigation, under EPA supervision, to determine the type and
extent of contamination. All sampling is complete. The investigative report defining
the nature and extent of contamination is being finalized. Currently, the EPA is evaluating
various cleanup alternatives and is expected to select final cleanup remedies by late 1992.
Site Facts: Under a Consent Order with the EPA, signed on March 31, 1987, nine
potentially responsible parties agreed to undertake the investigation of the site contamination.
Environmental Progress
After listing the Waste, Inc. Landfill on the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary evaluations
and determined that the site does not pose an immediate threat to the surrounding
communities or the environment while the investigations leading to the selection of final
cleanup remedies are taking place.
Site Repository
Michigan City Public Library, 100 East 4th Street, Michigan City, IN 46460
WASTE, INC. LANDFILL 77 March 1992
-------
WAYNE WASTE
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND048989479
EPA REGION 5
Whitley County
Columbia City
Other Names:
Wayne Reclamation and Recycling
(WRR)
Site Description
The Wayne Waste Oil site is located on 35 acres in Columbia City. Wayne Waste Oil, a
division of Wayne Reclamation and Recycling, Inc., deposited about a million gallons of oil
waste on this site from 1975 to 1980. During its period of operation, oil wastes were disposed
of on site by dumping them on surface soils, into unlined pits, and into a trench. The Indiana
State Board of Health investigated the facility in 1980 and found hazardous wastes that were
illegally deposited. As a result, the owner was ordered by the State of Indiana to clean up the
site. The site contained opened, leaking drums, waste areas covered with sands, and disposal
ponds. The area surrounding the site is used for residential, commercial, and agricultural
purposes. The population of Columbia City was estimated to be 5,100 in 1988. All residences
are connected to the municipal water supply.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including benzene,
trichloroethylene (TCE), and toluene and heavy metals including arsenic, barium,
lead, and cyanide. Soil contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), VOCs,
heavy metals, phenols, and phthalates. On-site ponds and the adjacent Blue River
contain cyanide, copper, and TCE. Currently, the city wells, which are located at
the northern boundary of the site, are not contaminated. If migration of
site-related contaminants through groundwater occurs, area residents could be
exposed to these pollutants when consuming or using drinking water. On-site
trespassers and workers could be exposed to site-related contaminants when
coming into direct contact with the contaminated soils. The Blue River borders the
site on two sides, and since no significant barrier between the site and the river
exists, site-related contaminants in groundwater, surface water, and soils could
migrate into the river.
78
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1986, the potentially responsible parties, under EPA
monitoring, excavated 7,500 tons of contaminated soil in the oil decanting pit, the
tar pit, and the sludge ravine and disposed of it in a federally approved facility.
Over 200 drums and soil from the buried barrel area were removed and disposed of off site.
This area was then backfilled. In 1988, the parties excavated approximately 5,400 tons of
contaminated soil from the discolored area, the acid pit, the ink sludge area, and the sludge
ravine and disposed of the soil in a federally approved facility. An additional 125 drums were
removed, as well as the contents of 23 horizontal tanks. A fence was constructed around the
oil decanting pit, the sludge ravine, and the discolored area. The acid pit and the ink sludge
areas were backfilled with off-site fill material. Four drums were left on site after these
operations ceased in 1988 because of the difficulties involved with moving them. The
remaining drums were removed from the site in 1989.
Entire Site: The EPA began an investigation into the nature and extent of site
contamination in 1985. The parties potentially responsible for site contamination
completed the effort under EPA supervision. The remedy selected by the EPA in
early 1990 includes: constructing, operating, and maintaining a soil vapor extraction system in
the VOC-contaminated soil areas; delineating and cleaning the lead-contaminated soils by soil
washing or immobilization/stabilization technologies; constructing, operating, and maintaining
a groundwater extraction, treatment (air stripping), and discharge system; delineating the
extent of the municipal landfill; constructing and maintaining a cap over the municipal
landfill; covering PAH-contaminated soil or consolidating the soil under the municipal landfill
cap; removing and treating the contents of all above-ground and underground tanks, and
delineating the extent of contamination due to spills or leaks associated with the tanks;
removing and disposing of site debris; installing an upgraded security fence around the site;
monitoring the groundwater and the air; and implementing deed restrictions to ensure
protection of the municipal landfill cap. The potentially responsible parties, under EPA
monitoring, began designing the technical specifications in late 1991. Once the design phase is
completed the cleanup activities will begin, which currently are scheduled for mid-1993.
Site Facts: In 1986, the EPA and the potentially responsible parties entered into an
Administrative Order on Consent, under which the parties removed contaminated soil, drums,
and tanks from the site. The EPA issued a Unilateral Administrative Order to five parties
potentially responsible for the site contamination in 1988. The purpose of this Order was to
compel these parties to remove additional drums, soils, debris, and tank contents.
WAYNE WASTE OIL 79 March 1992
-------
Environmental Progress
The removal of the contaminated soils and drums from the site and the construction of
security fences around the areas of greatest contamination have reduced the potential for
direct exposure to hazardous materials at the Wayne Waste Oil site while the specifications
for the selected cleanup remedy are completed and the actual cleanup activities are started.
Site Repository
Peabody Library, 203 North Main Street, Columbia City, IN 46725
March 1992
80
WAYNE WASTE OIL
-------
WEDZEB
ENTERPRISES, IN
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980794374
X
EPA REGION 5
Boone County
Lebanon
Site Description
The Wedzeb Enterprises, Inc. site is situated on 3/4 acre and in Lebanon, about 30 miles
northwest of Indianapolis. The site was owned by a succession of businesses prior to the late
1970s, when Wedzeb Enterprises, Inc. purchased it. Operating practices at Wedzeb consisted
of buying used electrical equipment for resale and storing it on site in two warehouses.
Various types of electrical equipment including electrical capacitors and transformers
containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were stored on site. A fire that completely
destroyed one of the warehouses on the eastern side occurred at the Wedzeb Enterprises,
Inc. site in 1981. According to inventory records, this warehouse had contained 77 tons of
electrical capacitors, some of which exploded during the fire. The water used to put out the
fire mixed with contaminants from the capacitors and subsequently dripped onto the ground
and flowed into a sanitary sewer line. PCBs may have been released into the environment as
a result of the fire, and contaminants may have been washed to nearby ground surfaces as
the fire was extinguished. Because of the potential health threat to nearby residents caused
by harmful chemicals, the Indiana State Board of Health and the EPA collected samples in
1981 of on-site soil and debris, as well as soot, wastewater, and sanitary sewer sediment from
areas located near the site. The results of these sampling activities showed concentrations of
PCBs in sediment from the sanitary sewage treatment plant, as well as traces of dioxins and
furans in the sediment and other soil samples from locations on and near the site. The EPA
and the Indiana Environmental Management Board requested a cleanup plan from Wedzeb
Enterprises, Inc. in 1982, but the company failed to submit one until 1985. Approximately
11,455 people live within a 3-mile radius of the site, and about 300 homes are located within
500 feet of the site. There are approximately 300 private wells and two municipal wells within
the vicinity of the site. These wells were not threatened by site contamination.
Site Responsibility: This site was addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Deletion Date: 09/10/91
81
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains low levels of dioxins and furans that do no pose a risk to
people or the environment. On-site sediments and sediments located in the
sanitary sewer pipeline system near the site were contaminated with PCBs, dioxins,
and furans. Soils contained low levels of PCBs, dioxins, furans, and other organic
compounds. Low levels of PCBs were found in the interior warehouse surface
samples. The site is now clean, and there is no threat to public health or the
environment.
Cleanup Approach
The 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: Wedzeb Enterprises, Inc. installed a fence and a windbreak
around the site in 1985 to minimize migration of dust off site. The EPA removed
50 boxes containing contaminated on-site surface soils and debris from the area
surrounding the warehouse on the eastern part of the site in 1987. The contaminated soils
and debris were shipped to an EPA-approved disposal facility. The contaminated soil
subsequently was replaced with clean fill. More than 250 drums of 3-pound capacitors were
shipped off site for incineration.
Entire Site: The work plan for long-term cleanup of the sewers and soils was
completed and approved by the EPA, and cleanup work began on the site in 1990.
The EPA selected the following methods to address site contamination: cleaning
the sewer lines with hydraulic jets and vacuum pumping to remove contaminants; inspection
of the sewer pipe; disposal or incineration of contaminated sediments; filtering sewer
sediments and discharging clean water to the publicly owned treatment works; and removal
and disposal of the wastes generated by the investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site. Cleanup activities were completed in late 1990, and the EPA
deleted the site from the NPL in 1991.
Site Facts: The EPA and the State of Indiana made repeated attempts to compel Wedzeb
Enterprises, Inc., the party potentially responsible for site contamination, to clean up the site
between 1981 and 1985. Further enforcement efforts resulted in Wedzeb Enterprises, Inc.
submitting a cleanup plan for the site in 1985; however, Wedzeb Enterprises, Inc. never
initiated cleanup activities due to financial difficulties.
March 1992 82 WEDZEB ENTERPRISES, INC.
-------
Environmental Progress
All cleanup activities have been completed at the Wedzeb Enterprises, Inc. site. The EPA
deleted the site from the NPL in 1991.
Site Repository
Lebanon Public Library, 104 East Washington Street, Lebanon, IN 46052
WEDZEB ENTERPRISES, INC.
83
March 1992
-------
WHITEFORD SAL
AND SERVICE IN
NATIONALEASE
INDIANA
EPA ID# IND980999791
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
St. Joseph County
South Bend
Other Names:
National Lease
The Whiteford Sales and Service Inc./NationaLease site covers approximately 8 acres on
Sample Street in South Bend, Indiana. The site operated as Whiteford Sales and Services
from 1960 to 1980 and as National Lease from 1980 to 1983. Both companies leased trucks
and semitrailers. In 1980, St. Joseph County purchased the property from Whiteford
Trucking; Whiteford then leased the property and structures from the County until 1983.
Upon acquiring the property, the County began the demolition of all structures and
construction of an overpass. During the excavation process, three dry wells were uncovered.
It was later learned that unknown quantities of degreasing solvents and sludges, resulting
from the cleaning of trucks and trailers, had been deposited into these three unlined dry
wells, each approximately 6 feet in diameter and 6 feet deep. Tests conducted by the St.
Joseph County Health Department found on-site soils to be contaminated with organic and
inorganic compounds. The Whiteford site lies in an industrial area; however, residences are
located approximately 1,000 feet due north of the site. There are approximately 10,000 people
living within a 1-mile radius of the site. Approximately 237,000 people draw drinking water
from public wells within 3 miles of the site. In 1980, the Olive Street Well Field, part of the
municipal water system located west of the Whiteford Site, was shut down because of the
presence of organic chemicals in the well water.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater off site was found to contain carbon tetrachloride, a substance used
in dry cleaning operations, other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
trichloroethylene (TCE), and vinyl chloride. Soils and sludges on site were found to
be contaminated with heavy metals including arsenic, barium, cadmium, and
chromium, and with VOCs. There is a potential for the migration of contaminated
groundwater to the nearby municipal well field. If people should come in direct
contact with or accidentally ingest the contaminated groundwater, they may be at
risk. In addition, people who come into direct contact with or accidentally ingest
contaminated soil may suffer adverse health effects.
84
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: an initial action and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Action: Cleanup of the Whiteford property was initiated. Three dry wells,
in addition to a limited amount of contaminated soils, were removed and taken to
a State-permitted sanitary landfill.
Entire Site: EPA is investigating the type and extent of contamination at the site.
The field work has been completed and a report detailing the alternatives for
cleaning up the site is currently being prepared. The final selection of the cleanup
strategy for the site is expected in late 1993.
Environmental Progress
The removal of the contaminated dry wells and some of the contaminated soils from the
Whiteford Sales and Service Inc./NationaLease site has reduced the potential for exposure to
hazardous materials while the investigations leading to the selection of the final cleanup
remedies are taking place.
Site Repository
St. Joseph County Public Library, 122 West Wayne Street, South Bend, IN 46601
WHITEFORD SALES AND SERVICE INC.
NATIONALEASE
85
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 Disulfide: 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 19X0 to
respond directly to hazardous waste problems
that may pose a threat to the public health and
the environment. The EPA administers the
Superfund program.
Confluence: The place where two bodies of
water, such as streams or rivers, come together.
Confined Aquifer: An aquifer in which
groundwater is confined under pressure that is
significantly greater than atmospheric pressure.
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.
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.
Cost Recovery: A legal process by which De water: To remove water from wastes, soils,
potentially responsible parties can be required or chemicals.
to pay back the Superfund program for money
G-4
-------
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.
Downgradient: 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
farming, residential or industrial develop-
ment, road building, or timber-cutting. Ero-
sion may spread surface contamination to off-
site locations.
Estuary (estuarine): Areas where fresh
water from rivers and salt water from
nearshore ocean waters are mixed. These
areas may include bays, mouths of rivers, salt
marshes, and lagoons. These water ecosys-
tems shelter and feed marine life, birds, and
wildlife.
Evaporation Ponds: Areas where sewage
sludge or other watery wastes are dumped and
allowed to dry out.
Feasibility Study: The analysis of the
potential cleanup alternatives for a site. The
feasibility study usually starts as soon as the
remedial investigation is underway. In this
volume, the feasibility study is referred to as a
site study [see also Remedial Investigation].
G-5
-------
GLOSSARY
Filtration: A treatment process for remov-
ing solid (particulate) 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
-------
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
-------
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
-------
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
-------
GLOSSARY
Polycyclic 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
-------
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
-------
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
-------
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].
Stillbottom: Residues left over from the
process of recovering spent solvents.
Stripping: A process used to remove volatile
contaminants from a substance [see Air Strip-
ping].
Sumps: A pit or tank that catches liquid
runoff for drainage or disposal.
Superf und: 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
-------
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
-------
GLOSSARY
Some Common Contaminants at NPL Sites
Contaminant
Category
Example
Chemical Types
Sources
Potential Health
Threats*
Heavy Metets
Volatile Organic
Compounds
Herteieides
Polychbrinated
Creosotes
Ra^iatton
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 (PCP)
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.
G-15
*U.S. G.P.O.:1993-341-932:82649
------- |