fxEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Solid Waste And
Emergency Response
(5102G)
SUPERFUND:
EPA/540/R-93/029
December 1992
PB93-963230
Progress at
National
Priority
List Sites
NEW MEXICO
1992 UPDATE
Printed on Recycled Paper
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Publication #9200.5-731 B
December 1992
NATIONAL PRIORITIES LIST SITES:
New Mexico
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Office of Emergency & Remedial Response
Office of Program Management
Washington, DC 20460
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5, Library (PL-12J)
77 West Jackson Boulevard, 12th Float
Chicago, IL 60604-3590
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If you wish to purchase copies of any additional State volumes, contact:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
U.S. Department of Commerce
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
(703) 486-4650
The complete set of the 49 State reports may be ordered as PB93-963250.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
A Brief Overview of Superfund v
Streamlining Superfund: The Superfund Accelerated Cleanup Model ix
How Superfund Works x
THE VOLUME
How to Use the State Book xi
A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
.XV
THE NPL REPORT
Progress to Date xix
THE NPL FACT SHEETS i
THE GLOSSARY
Terms used in the NPL Book G-l
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INTRODUCTION
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF SUPERFUND
During the second half of the Twentieth
Century, the environmental conse-
quences of more than 100 years of industrial-
ization in the United States became increas-
ingly clear. Authors such as Rachel Carson
wrote passionately about the often-hidden en-
vironmental effects of our modern society's
widespread use of chemicals and other haz-
ardous materials. Their audience was small at
first, but gradually their message spread.
Growing concern turned to action, as people
learned more about the environment and be-
gan to act on their knowledge
The 1970s saw environmental issues burst
onto the national scene and take hold in the
national consciousness. The first Earth Day
was observed in 1970, the year that the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was
founded. By the end of the 1970s, Love Canal
in New York and the Valley of the Drums in
Kentucky had entered the popular lexicon as
synonyms for pollution and environmental
degradation.
Superfund Is Established
The industrialization that gave Americans the
world's highest standard of living also created
problems that only a national program could
address. By 1980, the U.S. Congress had
passed numerous environmental laws, imple-
mented by the EPA, but many serious hazard-
ous waste problems were slipping through the
cracks.
Responding to growing concern about public
health and environmental threats from uncon-
trolled releases of hazardous materials, the
U.S. Congress passed the Comprehensive En-
vironmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA). Popularly known as
Superfund, CERCLA had one seemingly
simple job—to uncover and clean up hazard-
ous materials spills and contaminated sites.
A Big Job
Few in Congress, the EPA, the environmen-
tal community, or the general public knew in
1980 just how big the nation's hazardous ma-
terials problem is. Almost everyone thought
that Superfund would be a short-lived pro-
gram requiring relatively few resources to
clean up at most a few hundred sites. They
were quite mistaken.
As the EPA set to work finding sites and
gauging their potential to harm people and
the environment, the number of sites grew.
Each discovery seemed to lead to another,
and today almost 36,000 hazardous waste
sites have been investigated as potential haz-
ardous waste sites. They are catalogued in
the EPA's computerized database, CERCLIS
(for the Comprehensive Environmental Re-
-------
INTRODUCTION
sponse, Compensation, and Liability Informa-
tion System).
The damage to public health and the environ-
ment that each site in CERCLIS might cause
is evaluated; many sites have been referred to
State and local governments for cleanup. The
EPA lists the nation's most serious hazardous
waste sites on the National Priorities List, or
NPL. (These Superfund sites are eligible for
federally-funded cleanup, but whenever pos-
sible the EPA makes polluters pay for the
contamination they helped create.) The NPL
now numbers 1,275 sites, with 50 to 100
added each year. By the end of the century,
the NPL may reach as many as 2,100 sites.
Superfund faces some of the most complex
pollution problems ever encountered by an
environmental program. Improperly stored or
disposed chemicals and the soil they contami-
nate are one concern. More difficult to correct
are the wetlands and bays, and the groundwa-
ter, lakes, and rivers often used for drinking
water that are contaminated by chemicals
spreading through the soil or mixing with
storm water runoff. Toxic vapors contaminate
the air at some sites, threatening the health of
people living and working near by.
Superfund aims to control immediate public
health and environmental threats by tackling
the worst problems at the worst sites first.
Wherever possible, Superfund officials use
innovative treatment techniques—many de-
veloped or refined by the EPA—to correct
hazardous materials problems once and for
all. Many of the treatment techniques they use
did not exist when the program was created.
The EPA Administrator had challenged Su-
perfund to complete construction necessary
for cleanup work at 130 NPL sites by the end
of the 1992 federal fiscal year. By September
30, 1992, the end of fiscal year 1992, con-
struction had been completed at a total of 149
NPL sites. Superfund is well on its way of
meeting the Administrator's goal of complet-
ing construction at 200 NPL sites by the end
of fiscal year 1993, and 650 sites by the end
of fiscal year 2000.
Quick Cleanup at
Non-NPL Sites
Long-standing hazardous waste sites are not
Superfund's only concern. The EPA also re-
sponds to hazardous spills and other emergen-
cies, hauling away chemicals for proper treat-
ment or disposal. Superfund teams perform or
supervise responses at rail and motor vehicle
accidents, fires, and other emergencies in-
volving hazardous substances. They also
evacuate people living and working near by,
if necessary, and provide clean drinking water
to people whose own water is contaminated.
Removal crews also post warning signs and
take other precautions to keep people and ani-
mals away from hazardous substances.
Superfund employee prepares equipment for groundwater
treatment.
VI
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INTRODUCTION
Quick Cleanups, or Removals, are not limited
to emergencies. When cleanup crews at con-
taminated sites find hazardous substances that
immediately threaten people or the environ-
ment, they act right away to reduce the threat
or to remove the chemicals outright. As the
EPA implements the Superfund Accelerated
Cleanup Model (SACM), more and more sites
will undergo quick cleanups, and many of
these will be cleaned up completely without
ever being included on the NPL. (See
"Streamlining Superfund: The Superfund Ac-
celerated Cleanup Model.")
Some of Superfund's most significant gains in
public health and environmental protection
have been won by the removal program. As of
March 31, 1992, the Emergency Response
Superfund employee removing drums from a Superfund site.
Program had logged more than 2,300 removal
completions since Superfund was established.
The Public's Role
Superfund is unique among federal programs
in its commitment to citizen participation. Al-
though the EPA is responsible for determin-
ing how dangerous a site is and how best to
clean it up, the Agency relies on citizen input
as it makes these decisions.
Community residents are often invaluable
sources of information about a hazardous
waste site, its current and previous owners,
and the activities that took place there. Such
information can be crucial to experts evaluat-
ing a site and its potential dangers.
Residents also comment on EPA cleanup
plans by stating their concerns and prefer-
ences at public meetings and other forums and
in formal, written comments to Agency pro-
posals. The EPA takes these comments and
concerns seriously, and has modified many
proposals in response to local concerns. For,
ultimately, it is the community and its citizens
that will live with the results of the EPA's de-
cisions and actions; it is only fair that citizens
participate in the process.
A Commitment to
Communication
The Superfund program is very serious about
public outreach and communication. Com-
munity relations coordinators are assigned to
each NPL site to help the public understand
the potential hazards present, as well as the
cleanup alternatives. Local information re-
positories, such as libraries or other public
buildings, have been established near each
NPL site to ensure that the public has an op-
portunity to review all relevant information
and the proposed cleanup plans.
The individual State volumes contain sum-
mary fact sheets on NPL sites in each State
and territory. Together, the fact sheets provide
a concise report on site conditions and the
progress made toward site cleanups as of
March 1992. The EPA revises these volumes
periodically to provide an up-to-date record of
program activities. A glossary of key terms
relating to hazardous waste management and
Superfund site cleanup is provided at the back
of this book.
VII
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INTRODUCTION
Superfund is, of course, a public program, and
as such it belongs to everyone of us. This vol-
ume, along with other State volumes, com-
prises the EPA's report on Superfund
progress to the program's owners for the year
1992.
VIII
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INTRODUCTION
STREAMLINING SUPERFUND: THE SUPERFUND
ACCELERATED CLEANUP MODEL
Historically, critics and supporters alike
have measured Superfund's progress
by the number of hazardous waste sites de-
leted from the NPL. Although easy enough to
tally, this approach is too narrow. It misses
the major gains Superfund makes by reducing
major risks at the nation's worst hazardous
sites long before all clean-up work is done
and the site deleted. It also ignores the Re-
moval Program's contributions to meeting
Superfund's twin mandates of maximizing
public health and environmental protection.
Renewing Superfund's commitment to rapid
protection from hazardous materials, the EPA
is streamlining the program. The Superfund
Accelerated Cleanup Model, or SACM, will
take Early Actions, such as removing hazard-
ous wastes or contaminated materials, while
experts study the site. SACM also will com-
bine similar site studies to reduce the time re-
quired to evaluate a site and its threats to
people and the environment. This way, imme-
diate public health and environmental threats
will be addressed while long-term cleanups
are being planned.
Emergencies such as train derailments and
motor vehicle accidents will continue to be
handled expeditiously. Teams of highly
trained technicians will swing into action
right away, coordinating the cleanup and re-
moval of hazardous substances to ensure pub-
lic safety as quickly as possible.
Breaking With Tradition
The traditional Superfund process begins with
a lengthy phase of study and site assessment,
but SACM will save time by combining sepa-
rate, yet similar, activities. Each EPA Region
will form a Decision Team of site managers,
risk assessors, community relations coordina-
tors, lawyers, and other experts to monitor the
studies and quickly determine whether a site
requires Early Action (taking less than five
years), Long-term Action, or both.
While the site studies continue, the Decision
Team will begin the short-term work required
to correct immediate public health or environ-
mental threats from the site. Besides remov-
ing hazardous materials, Early Actions in-
clude taking precautions to keep contaminants
from moving off the site and restricting access
to the site. Early Actions could eliminate most
human risk from these sites, and Superfund
will further focus its public participation and
public information activities on site assess-
ment and Early Action.
Long-Term Solutions
While Early Actions can correct many hazard-
ous waste problems—and provide the bulk of
public health and environmental protection-
some contamination will take longer to cor-
rect. Cleanups of mining sites, wetlands, estu-
aries, and projects involving incineration of
contaminants or restoration of groundwater
can take far longer than the three to five years
envisioned for Early Actions. Under SACM,
these sites will be handled much as they are
now.
Also under SACM, the EPA will continue its
pursuit of potentially responsible parties who
may have caused or contributed to site con-
tamination. Expedited enforcement and
procedures for negotiating potentially respon-
sible party settlements will secure their par-
ticipation. Superfund personnel will continue
to oversee clean-up work performed by poten-
tially responsible parties.
IX
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INTRODUCTION
HOW SUPERFUND WORKS
Each Superfund site presents a different
set of complex problems. The same haz-
ardous materials and chemicals often con-
taminate many sites, but the details of each
site are different. Almost always, soil is con-
taminated with one or more chemicals. Their
vapors may taint the air over and around the
site. Contaminants may travel through the soil
and reach underground aquifers which may be
used for drinking water, or they may spread
over the site to contaminate streams, ponds,
and wetlands. The contaminating chemicals
may interact with each other, presenting even
more complicated cleanup problems.
Superfund's cleanup process is arduous and
exacting. It requires the best efforts of hun-
dreds of experts in science and engineering,
public health, administration and manage-
ment, law, and many other fields.
The average NPL site takes from seven to ten
years to work its way through the system,
from discovery to the start of long-term
cleanup. Actual cleanup work can take years,
decades if contaminated groundwater must
be treated. Of course, imminent threats to
public health or the environment are cor-
rected right away.
The diagram to the right presents a simplified
view of the cleanup process. The major steps
in the Superfund process are:
• Site discovery and investigation to iden-
tify contaminants and determine whether
emergency action is required;
• Emergency site work such as removing
contaminants for proper treatment or dis-
posal, and securing the site to keep people
and animals away, if warranted by condi-
tions at the site;
• Site evaluation to determine how people
living and working nearby, and the envi-
ronment, may be exposed to site contami-
nants;
• Detailed studies to determine whether con-
ditions are serious enough to add the site to
the National Priorities List of sites eligible
for federally funded cleanup under Super-
fund;
• Selection, design, and implementation of a
cleanup plan, after a thorough review of
the most effective cleanup options, given
site conditions, contaminants present, and
their potential threat to public health or the
environment.
• Follow-up to ensure that the cleanup work
done at the site continues to be effective
over the long term.
The Superfund Process
From the earliest stages, EPA investigators
work hard to identify those responsible for the
contamination. As their responsibility is es-
tablished, the EPA negotiates with these "re-
sponsible parties" to pay for cleaning up the
problem they helped create. This "enforce-
ment first" policy saves Superfund Trust Fund
monies for use in cleanups where the respon-
sible parties cannot be identified, or where
they are unable to fund cleanup work.
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THE VOLUME
How to Use the State Book
The site fact sheets presented in this book
are comprehensive summaries that cover
a broad range of information. The fact sheets
describe hazardous waste sites on the NPL and
their locations, as well as the conditions
leading to their listing ("Site Description").
The summaries list the types of contaminants
that have been discovered and related threats
to public and ecological health ("Threats and
Contaminants"). "Cleanup Approach" pres-
ents an overview of the cleanup activities
completed, underway, or planned. The fact
sheets conclude with a brief synopsis of how
much progress has been made in protecting
public health and the environment. The
summaries also pinpoint other actions, such as
legal efforts to involve polluters responsible
for site contamination and community con-
cerns.
The fact sheets are arranged in alphabetical
order by site name. Because site cleanup is a
dynamic and gradual process, all site informa-
tion is accurate as of the date shown on the
bottom of each page. Progress always is being
made at NPL sites, and the EPA periodically
will update the site fact sheets to reflect recent
actions and will publish updated State vol-
umes. The following two pages show a ge-
neric fact sheet and briefly describe the infor-
mation under each section.
How Can You Use
This State Book?
You can use this book to keep informed about
the sites that concern you, particularly ones
close to home. The EPA is committed to
involving the public in the decision making
process associated with hazardous waste
cleanup. The Agency solicits input from area
residents in communities affected by Super-
fund sites. Citizens are likely to be affected
not only by hazardous site conditions, but also
by the remedies that combat them. Site clean-
ups take many forms and can affect communi-
ties in different ways. Local traffic may be
rerouted, residents may be relocated, tempo-
rary water supplies may be necessary.
Definitive information on a site can help
citizens sift through alternatives and make
decisions. To make good choices, you must
know what the threats are and how the EPA
intends to clean up the site. You must under-
stand the cleanup alternatives being proposed
for site cleanup and how residents may be
affected by each one. You also need to have
some idea of how your community intends to
use the site in the future, and you need to know
what the community can realistically expect
once the cleanup is complete.
The EPA wants to develop cleanup methods
that meet community needs, but the Agency
only can take local concerns into account if it
understands what they are. Information must
travel both ways in order for cleanups to be
effective and satisfactory. Please take this
opportunity to learn more, become involved,
and assure that hazardous waste cleanup at
"your" site considers your community's
concerns.
XI
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THE VOLUME
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Provides the dates when the
site was Proposed, made Final,
and Deleted from the NPL.
SITE RESPONSIBILITY
Identifies the Federal, State,
and/or potentially responsible
parties taking responsibility
for cleanup actions at the site.
ENVIRONMENTAL
PROGRESS
Summarizes the actions to
reduce the threats to nearby
residents and the surrounding
environment and the progress
towards cleaning up the site.
SITE NAME
STATE
EPA ID# ABCOOOOOOO
EPA REGION XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
Threats and Contaminants
Cleanup Approach
xxxxxx xxx xxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxx xxxx
Response Action Status
xxxxxx xxx xxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxx
XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXX XXXXXXXX XXXX XX XXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXX X X
XXXXXXXX XXXXXXX XXX XXXXXX XXXXXX XXXXX XXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX X XXX XX XXXXXXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXX
XXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX XXXX XLXXX XXXXX KXXX XXXXXXXX JCXXXX XXXX XXXXX XXX
Environmental Progress
Site Repository
SITE REPOSITORY
Lists the location of the primary site repository. The site
repository may include community relations plans, public
meeting announcements and minutes, fact sheets, press
releases, and other site-related documents.
XII
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THE VOLUME
SITE DESCRIPTION
This section describes the location and history of the site. It includes descrip-
tions of the most recent activities and past actions at the site that have con-
tributed to the contamination. Population estimates, land usages, and nearby
resources give readers background on the local setting surrounding the site.
THREATS AND CONTAMINANTS
The major chemical categories of site contamination are noted, as well as
which environmental resources are affected. Icons representing each of the
affected resources (may include air, groundwater, surface water, soil, and
contamination to environmentally sensitive areas) are included in the margins
of this section. Potential threats to residents and the surrounding environ-
ments arising from the site contamination also are described.
CLEANUP APPROACH
This section contains a brief overview of how the site is being cleaned up.
RESPONSE ACTION STATUS
Specific actions that have been accomplished or will be undertaken to clean
up the site are described here. Cleanup activities at NPL sites are divided
into separate phases, depending on the complexity and required actions at the
site. Two major types of cleanup activities often are described: initial,
immediate, or emergency actions to quickly remove or reduce imminent
threats to the community and surrounding areas; and long-term remedial
phases directed at final cleanup at the site. Each stage of the cleanup strategy
is presented in this section of the summary. Icons representing the stage of
the cleanup process (initial actions, site investigations, EPA selection of the
cleanup remedy, engineering design phase, cleanup activities underway, and
completed cleanup) are located in the margin next to each activity descrip-
tion.
SITE FACTS
Additional information on activities and events at the site are included in this
section. Often details on legal or administrative actions taken by the EPA to
achieve site cleanup or other facts pertaining to community involvement with
the site cleanup process are reported here.
XIII
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THE VOLUME
The "icons," or symbols, accompanying the text allow the reader to see at a glance which envi-
ronmental resources are affected and the status of cleanup activities at the site.
Icons in the Threats
and Contaminants
Section
Contaminated Groundwater resources
in the vicinity or underlying the site.
(Groundwater is often used as a drink-
ing water source.)
Contaminated Surface Water and
Sediments on or near the site. (These
include lakes, ponds, streams, and
rivers.)
Contaminated Air in the vicinity of
the site. (Air pollution usually is
periodic and involves contaminated
dust particles or hazardous gas emis-
sions.)
Contaminated Soil and Sludges on or
near the site. (This contamination
category may include bulk or other
surface hazardous wastes found on the
site.)
Threatened or contaminated Environ-
mentally Sensitive Areas in the vicinity
of the site. (Examples include wet-
lands and coastal areas or critical
habitats.)
Icons in the Response
Action Status Section
Initial, Immediate, or Emergency
Actions have been taken or are
underway to eliminate immediate
threats at the site.
Site Studies at the site to determine
the nature and extent of contamination
are planned or underway.
Remedy Selected indicates that site
investigations have been concluded,
and the EPA has selected a final
cleanup remedy for the site or part of
the site.
Remedy Design means that engineers
are preparing specifications and
drawings for the selected cleanup
technologies.
Cleanup Ongoing indicates that the
selected cleanup remedies for the
contaminated site, or part of the site,
currently are underway.
Cleanup Complete shows that all
cleanup goals have been achieved for
the contaminated site or part of the
site.
XIV
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A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
xv
-------
•f Major Cm«s
• NPLSiUs
Superfund Activities
in New Mexico
The State of New Mexico is located within EPA
Region 6, which includes the five south central States.
The State covers 121,335 square miles. According to the
1990 Census, New Mexico experienced a 16 percent
increase in population between 1980 and 1990, and is
ranked thirty-seventh in U.S. population with approxi-
mately 1,515,000 residents.
The Hazardous Waste Act of 1988 provides the
State with the authority to compel polluters to clean up
Superfund sites. In practice, the State sends a notice of violation to polluters, allowing time for
compliance. If the polluters are unwilling to participate in cleanup activities, the State has the
option of imposing civil penalties or serving an injunction on the polluters. While the State
cannot conduct long-term cleanup activities itself, it does have the authority to perform emer-
gency response and removal actions and then recover the cost of these activities from polluters at
a later time. The 1988 Act also created the Hazardous Waste Emergency Fund to finance site-
related activities, including emergency response actions, investigations and designs for removal
actions, and the 10 percent contribution from the State required by the Federal Superfund pro-
gram. Appropriations, bonds, money recovered from polluters, penalties, and fines make up the
fund. Currently, 10 sites in the State of New Mexico have been listed as final on the NPL. No
new sites have been proposed for listing in 1992.
The New Mexico Environment Department
implements the Superfund Program in the State of New Mexico
Activities responsible for hazardous
waste contamination in the State of
New Mexico include:
Petroleum and
Refining
Facilities
Manufacturing
Facilities
Federal
Faciliites
Railroad
and
Salvage
Yards
Mining
Operations
Metal
Production
and
Recycling
Facilities
Facts about the 10 NPL sites
in New Mexico:
Immediate Actions (such as removing
hazardous substances or restricting
site access) were performed at seven
sites.
No site endangers sensitive environ-
ments.
Six sites are located near residential
areas.
XVII
March 1992
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NEW MEXICO
Most Sites Have Multiple Contaminants and
Contaminated Media:
Media Contaminated at Sites
Air
Surface
Water
Sediments
Soil
Ground-
water
Contaminants Found at Sites
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Percentage of Sites
Percentage of Sites
Heavy Metals
VOCs
Radiation
Other*
PCBs
Pesticides/Herbicides
Petrochem ica Is/Explos ives
60%
30%
20%
20%
10%
10%
10%
'Other contaminants include cyanide and
Flouride
The Potentially Responsible
Party Pays...
In the State of New Mexico, potentially respon-
sible parties are paying for or conducting
cleanup activities at five sites.
For Further Information on NPL Sites and Hazardous
Waste Programs in the State of New Mexico Please Contact:
w EPA Region 6 Office of External
Affairs, Community Relations
* National Response Center
^ The Environment Department:
Groundwater Protection and
Remediation Bureau, Superfund
Section
® EPA Region 6 Hazardous Waste
Management Division
® EPA Superfund Hotline
For information concerning
community involvement
To report a hazardous
waste emergency
For information about the
State's responsibility in the
Superfund Program
For information about the
Regional Superfund Program
For information about the
Federal Superfund Program
(214) 655-2200
(800) 424-8802
(505) 827-0078
(214) 655-6740
(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 (^ 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.
O 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.
O A final arrow at the "Remedial Design"
stage indicates that engineers currently
are designing the technical specifica-
tions for the selected cleanup remedies
and technologies.
^ A final arrow in the "Cleanup Ongoing"
column means that final cleanup actions
have been started at the site and cur-
rently are underway.
^ A final arrow in the "Construction Com-
plete" category is used only when all
phases of the site cleanup plan have
been performed, and the EPA has deter-
mined that no additional construction
actions are required at the site. Some
sites in this category currently may be
undergoing long-term operation and
maintenance or monitoring to ensure
that the cleanup actions continue to pro-
tect human health and the environment.
«/" A check in the "Deleted" category indi-
cates that the site cleanup has met all
human health and environmental goals
and that the EPA has deleted the site
from the NPL.
Further information on the activities and
progress at each site is given in the site "Fact
Sheets" published in this volume.
XIX
-------
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March 1992
xx
-------
AT&SF
(CLOVIS)
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD043158591
EPA REGION 6
Curry County
South of the AT&SF Railway
switching yard in Clovis
Other Names:
Clovis Site
Site Description
The AT&SF (Clovis) site comprises an approximately 26-acre area. For nearly 90 years, Santa
Fe Lake, sometimes referred to as Playa Lake, has received the wastewater discharge from
the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe (AT&SF) railway operations. The type of wastes
changed over the years, but in the mid-1950s, AT&SF began washing hopper cars at its
nearby switching and repair yard. Cars hauling potash, cement, fertilizer, grain, and coke were
cleaned, and the wastewater was piped to the lake. On-site industrial water wells were shut
down due to contamination in the mid-1970s. The hopper car washing facility was closed in
1982. The area surrounding the site is rural, but 31,000 people live nearby. The lake is
currently fenced off from public access. The closest residences are 2,000 feet away, and the
nearest drinking water well is 1,200 feet from the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/23/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
The sediments and surface water in Santa Fe Lake are contaminated with metals,
fluoride, and petroleum hydrocarbons. Contaminants found in on-site soil include
petroleum hydrocarbons and phenols. The aquifer that extends under the lake is
the source of drinking water for the town of Clovis. Although contamination of the
groundwater has not occurred, migration of contaminants from the lake is possible,
if the source of contamination is not removed. Possible threats include eating,
drinking, coming in direct contact with, or inhaling the contaminated materials.
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 remedies selected for the site include building a dike and ditch
system to prevent rain water from running onto the site; evaporating lake waters
and the resulting residues, along with cleaning up the sediment; excavating
sediments and treating them on site with biodegradation, an innovative technology that uses
microorganisms to degrade contaminants; covering the treated area with a plastic liner and
vegetated soil cap to prevent any remaining contaminants from migrating; and treating
underlying soils to encourage growth of the microorganisms that break down contaminants.
Results of continuous groundwater monitoring have indicated that contamination from the
site has not occurred. Construction of the selected cleanup remedy is now underway. The
potentially responsible parties are taking the lead on all site investigations and cleanup
activities, under monitoring by the EPA. The dike and ditch system construction was
completed in 1990. A fence has been installed surrounding the site. Biodegradation of the
sediments is expected to begin in mid-1992.
Site Facts: The EPA filed an Administrative Order in 1983 with the site owners to conduct
necessary studies and cleanup.
Environmental Progress
After adding the AT&SF (Clovis) site to the NPL, the EPA assessed site conditions and
determined that the site did not pose an immediate threat to nearby residents and the
environment. Construction of a dike and ditch system to prevent migration of contaminants
from the site and installation of a fence have reduced the potential of contact with
contaminants while soil and sediment cleanup occurs at the site.
Site Repository
Clovis-Carver Public Library, Fourth & Mitchell Streets, Clovis, NM 88108
March 1992 2 AT&SF (CLOVIS)
-------
CAL WEST
METALS
(USSBA)
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD097960272
EPA REGION 6
Socorro County
1/2 mile north of Lemitar
u1"
Site Description
Cal West Metals (USSBA) is situated on 12 1/2 acres of a 44-acre site and served as a
lead-recovery facility. From 1979 to 1981, approximately 20,000 auto batteries were stripped
of lead. From 1982 to 1984, Cal West Metals conducted research and development on
various aspects of raw materials recovery. In 1985, the company reworked the waste piles
from battery recycling to recover lead. The owners abandoned the site when the recovery
process ceased to be profitable. The Small Business Administration (SBA) foreclosed on and
took ownership of the site in October 1985. Piles of battery pieces and an evaporation pond
remain on site. The State detected lead in on-site monitoring wells and in the sediment in
drainage pathways from the site. In 1986, the metal was found on surface soils 400 feet
downwind from the site. Approximately 1,000 people get drinking water from public and
private wells within a 3-mile radius. Six hundred acres of food and forage crops are irrigated
with surface water within 3 miles downstream of the site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
Lead from the battery recovery operation has been found in groundwater and site
sediments. Elevated levels of lead also are found in soils. Individuals coming in
direct contact with, or accidentally ingesting contaminated groundwater, soils, or
sediments may be at risk.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase that is directed at cleanup of the
entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1990, the EPA began studies to determine the nature and extent
of lead contamination at the site and the potential for groundwater contamination.
The studies are scheduled for completion in mid-1992, and a final cleanup remedy
is expected to be selected later that year.
Site Facts: Beginning in 1987, the EPA sought to have the site properly closed under the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). In May 1990, the EPA sent Special
Notice Letters to the SB A and other potentially responsible parties. In July 1990, the EPA
negotiated a Federal Facilities Agreement with the SBA.
Environmental Progress
Following listing of the Cal West Metals (USSBA) site on the NPL, the EPA assessed the
site conditions and determined that it presently poses no immediate threat to public health or
the environment while further studies into cleanup alternatives are being conducted.
Site Repository
Not established.
March 1992 4 CAL WEST METALS SITE (USSBA)
-------
CIMARRON
CORP.
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD980749378
EPA REGION 6
Lincoln County
Carrizozo
Site Description
From 1979 to 1982, the Cimarron Mining Corp. site operated as a metal recovery mill using a
solution of cyanide salt and metal stripper. The site covers approximately 10 acres. Before
1979, gold was extracted, using cyanide. Both processes generated a liquid waste containing
cyanide and heavy metals. The facility was operated without the required permits, and the
State cited the company for environmental violations in 1982. Cimarron Mining filed for
bankruptcy in 1983, and the following year an inspection revealed two cyanide solution tanks,
a discharge pit, an impoundment, an uncovered pile of mine tailings, and a drum storage
area. In 1990, the Sierra Blanca property, located approximately 3/4 mile south of the
Cimarron Mining Corp. site, was incorporated into cleanup actions at the Cimarron Mining
Corp. site. Covering approximately 10 acres, it operated as a precious metals recovery mill.
The process resulted in a lead-contaminated slurry, which was disposed of in open pits.
Approximately 1,000 people obtain drinking water from 29 municipal wells within 3 miles of
the site. The nearest municipal well is about 2 miles away from the Cimarron Mining Corp.
area and 1/2 mile from the Sierra Blanca mill area. Wells also are used to irrigate food crops.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/26/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater, surface water, sediments, and soil were found to contain cyanide
and heavy metals. The levels of cyanide on the site potentially were toxic to
people, and direct contact with or accidental ingestion of wastes and contaminated
soils posed a health risk prior to cleanup. The deeper aquifer used for drinking
water could have become contaminated if treatment of the groundwater had not
occurred. There was an exposure potential from breathing airborne dust. Several
process tanks and soil and sediments in the discharge pits associated with the
Sierra Blanca Site contained lead and arsenic. The site is fenced and is 300 yards
south of a public recreation area.
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 Cimarron Mining Corp. mill area and the Sierra Blanca
•mill area.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1987, the site was fenced, and warning signs were posted
to alert the nearby community of contaminated site conditions.
Cimarron Mining Corp. Mill Area: In 1990, the EPA completed an
investigation into the nature and extent of contamination at the metal recovery
site. This study defined the contamination and recommended various cleanup
alternatives. The selected remedy involves extracting shallow groundwater, with discharge to a
local wastewater treatment facility. Engineering designs and the construction of the
groundwater pumping system were completed in early 1992, and operation began in mid-1992.
Groundwater treatment will continue until established cleanup goals are met.
Sierra Blanca Mill Area: An investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the Sierra Blanca property, a former processing area related to
Cimarron Mining Corp. operations, began in 1990. Final cleanup remedies were
selected in 1991 calling for consolidation, solidification, and on-site disposal of lead
contaminated soils. In late 1991, construction of this remedy was completed. Two additional
monitoring wells were installed, and cleanup was completed in 1992.
Environmental Progress
Constructing a fence to limit access, extracting and treating groundwater, and cleaning up
contaminated soils have reduced the threats to the public and the environment at the
Cimarron Mining Corp. site.
Site Repository
Carrizozo City Hall, 100 Fifth Street, Carrizozo, NM 88301
March 1992 6 CIMARRON MINING CORP.
-------
CLEVELAND
NEW MEXICO
EPAID# NMD98115593
MILLU
EPA REGION 6
Grant County
5 miles northeast of Silver City
Site Description
The abandoned 10-acre Cleveland Mill site was used as a metal mine and mill. The site has a
long history of mining activity, going back to 1910. Approximately 12,000 cubic yards of mine
tailings are piled on the site. Tailings were piped from the mill to the steeply sloping side of a
small valley and were left uncovered, unstabilized, and unlined. Approximately 1,200 area
residents draw drinking water from private wells within 3 miles of the site. A site investigation
revealed that runoff from the facility has acidified Little Walnut Creek and has contaminated
it with metals. The creek and downstream waters are used for recreation.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater, soil, and surface water of Little Walnut Creek are contaminated
with heavy metals including lead, silver, zinc, copper, and arsenic. The tailings and
polluted surface water are in areas that recharge the shallow aquifer. Water moves
downward from the coarse, permeable shallow aquifer toward the bedrock aquifer.
There is a possibility that drinking water might become tainted from the
groundwater contamination. Direct contact with the unrestricted tailings piles and
contact with surface waters could present a threat to human health.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on contamination at the
entire site.
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The EPA is conducting an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site. The investigation will define the contaminants of
concern, will recommend alternatives for soil and surface cleanup at the site, and
is expected to be completed in 1993. The study also will determine if river sediments have
been contaminated.
Site Facts: A 1987 search for potentially responsible parties identified eight businesses and
four individuals. Special Notice Letters were sent to these parties in December 1989.
Environmental Progress
After adding the Cleveland Mills site to the NFL, the EPA has conducted an evaluation and
determined that there currently are no immediate actions required while awaiting the results
of the investigation and decisions on the cleanup alternatives for the site.
Site Repository
Not established.
March 1992
CLEVELAND MILL
-------
HOMESTAKE
COMPANY
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD007860935
Site Description
MINI
EPA REGION 6
Cibola County
Route 53 north of Milan and Grants
I Other Names:
d Nuclear Homestake Partner*
UNC/Homestake
The Homestake Mining Company site is a uranium mill on standby status, largely operational
since 1958. More than 22 million tons of mine tailings have been piled over 245 acres of
ground; the pile now rises to 100 feet. Although there are private wells in the area of the
site, they have not been used since the company installed alternate water supplies in 1985.
Public wells have not been found to be contaminated. Approximately 200 people live within a
mile of the tailings piles. The nearest home and private drinking wells are 3,000 feet from the
edge of the nearest tailings pile. Seepage from the site's tailings piles has polluted a shallow
aquifer and parts of the Upper Chinle aquifer that provided water to four subdivisions 1/2 to
2 miles away.
She Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/23/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Alkaline mill tailings on site are emitting radon gas. Wind-blown particulates
containing lead, radium, and uranium are transported via the air. Radium has
entered surface water from these mill tailings. These tailings also seep sulfate,
sodium, molybdenum, selenium, and uranium into the groundwater. The shallow
aquifer has been contaminated, but this threat has been circumvented by a new
water supply to the area's residents. Studies of elevated radon levels in homes near
the mill found that the gas is coming from nearby soils rather than from the site
itself. Off-site soil contamination has been consolidated on site and will continue to
be cleaned up should wind dispersion of tailings occur. Inhalation or accidental
consumption of contaminated dust is a potential threat, as is eating food
contaminated by radioactive dust.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleanup of radon and mine tailings.
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1985, Homestake Mining Company arranged to have the
Milan water system extended to residents of the four subdivisions near the mill,
paying hookup and water charges for 10 years. The company is collecting
contaminated water from the shallow and the Upper Chinle aquifers and is injecting water
from the deeper aquifer in an effort to flush and improve the water quality of contaminated
zones. The EPA and Homestake Mining Company helped affected homeowners to measure
radon levels in their homes and in ambient outdoor air and to identify methods for reducing
the indoor levels. The efforts have been largely successful in flushing previously contaminated
off-site zones, and seepage has been contained on site.
Radon: Evaluation of the completed site investigation revealed that the mill and
its tailings do not significantly contribute to radon levels in the subdivisions. The
EPA has concluded that local soils are the principal source of radon and that no
further action is required at the site. Homestake Mining Company conducted off-site
monitoring and concluded that radon levels are below regulatory concern.
Mine Tailings: The tailings piles will be dewatered as part of the corrective
action program. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued Homestake
Mining Company a Source Material License in 1986 and since has required the
company to delineate the areal extent of windblown tailings off site. Radiological survey data
identified affected areas that subsequently were cleaned up to regulatory levels as part of a
land cleanup program. Contamination is now confined to the site. Homestake also has
submitted a long-term site reclamation and closure plan to the NRC, which has been
approved for implementation. Efforts to stabilize and dewater the tailings have begun, under
NRC and State of New Mexico guidance. Monitoring of air emissions from the site indicates
that paniculate radiation levels are within New Mexico State guidelines.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree was signed in 1983 and an Administrative Order was signed
by Homestake Mining Company in 1987 to perform cleanup activities at the site. Homestake
Mining Company is updating residents on progress and conditions at the site. The EPA is
attempting to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the NRC for cleanup of the site.
The site will remain on the NPL until cleanup is completed.
Environmental Progress
The initial actions have provided a safe drinking water supply while studies have determined
that site contamination is not contributing to elevated indoor radon levels found in some area
homes. Efforts to stabilize mill tailings are underway at the Homestake Mining Company site.
March 1992 10 HOMESTAKE MINING COMPANY
-------
Site Repository
New Mexico State University, Grants Library, 1500 Third Street, Grants, NM 87020
HOMESTAKE MINING COMPANY 11 March 1992
-------
LEE ACRES LANDFILL
(USDOI)
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD980750020
EPA REGION 6
San Juan County
Farmington
Site Description
The Lee Acres Landfill, a Federal facility site, covers 40 acres of public land in San Juan
County. In 1962, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) leased 20 acres to San Juan
County to operate a county landfill. The lease was renewed in 1981, with another 20 acres
added to the County's lease. The landfill consists of an undetermined number of solid waste
trenches and four unlined waste lagoons, including water produced from oil and gas field
operations, waste oil, spent acids, chlorinated organic solvents, and septage. The Lee Acres
residential subdivision and the Giant Industries refinery are nearby. Approximately 400
residents use shallow alluvial groundwater within 3 miles of the site. During a rain storm in
1985, a dike broke on one of the lagoons, resulting in wastes entering an arroyo that feeds
the San Juan River, a recreational area near the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and County actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and solid waste sludge are contaminated with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) including dichloroethane and benzene. Contaminants were
found in a residential well, presenting the potential of exposure to nearby residents
who obtain their water from the shallow groundwater.
12
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase
concentrating on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1985, the Governor called the National Guard to secure the
site perimeter while the BLM ordered the County to fill in the lagoons and fence
the site. The New Mexico Environmental Improvements Division (NMEID) hired
a contractor to treat the lagoon contents with ferric chloride to prevent further release of
gases. The County subsequently filled in the four lagoons. An alternative water supply was
found in 1986, and hookups were completed in 1987. A total of 31 groundwater monitoring
wells and piezometers were installed around the landfill by BLM contractors in 1987; five
additional wells were installed in 1989.
Entire Site: The BLM began preliminary studies at the site in 1989. Plans for
studies into the nature and extent of the contamination and possible cleanup
alternatives are undergoing review and revision by the EPA. However, the EPA
will not be involved until the Federal Facility Agreement is signed, which is presently being
negotiated with the Department of Interior (DOI). The U.S. Geological Survey will be
included in the review process. NMEID requested that Lee Acres be reclassified as a non-
Federal facility because the groundwater contamination may stem from the Giant Refinery as
well as from the landfill. The site may be divided into several phases of cleanup when the
Federal Facility Agreement is signed.
Site Facts: The EPA is currently drafting an Interagency Agreement for support of site
cleanup.
Environmental Progress
Fencing of the site and treatment of the lagoons, as well as the other activities on the Lee
Acres Landfill (USDOI) site, have reduced the potential for exposure to contaminants while
the site awaits further cleanup activities.
Site Repository
Farmington Public Library, 100 West Broadway Street, Farmington, NM 87401
LEE ACRES LANDFILL (USDOI) 13 March 1992
-------
PAGANO S
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD98074!
Site Description
EPA REGION 6
Valencia County
1 mile southeast of Los Lunas
Other Names:
Waste Electric Transformer #4
The 1 1/4-acre Pagano Salvage site housed a metal salvage facility. In 1983, the operators
bought electric transformers and capacitors containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) oils
from a U.S. Department of Energy facility in Albuquerque. They then removed the oil,
poured it over insulated wire, and burned off the insulation to recover the wire. Burning
occurred on unprotected ground at several locations. Soil sampling in 1985 and 1987 showed
PCB and pesticide contamination to a depth of 4 feet. PCBs were still being found in soils in
1988, as well as in nearby Otero Drain and in some fish tissue. There is a fence around three
sides of the site. An irrigation ditch runs along the rear of the site. About 11,000 people
obtain drinking water from public and private wells within 3 miles of the site. Surface water
near the site is used to irrigate croplands.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/26/89
Threats and Contaminants
The soil contained high concentrations of PCBs and pesticides including DDT and
DDE. Groundwater at the site is shallow (about 5 feet), and the soil consists of
very permeable alluvial deposits. These conditions could have facilitated movement
of contaminants into groundwater, thereby posing a potential for contamination of
the drinking water supply. However, monitoring of the groundwater has shown no
contamination. Additionally, crops and locally raised foodstuffs could have been
vulnerable to contamination if they had been irrigated with contaminated water.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being through emergency actions; further investigations showed that no other
cleanup actions are required.
14
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Emergency Actions: In response to immediate threats to the nearby public, the
EPA excavated about 5,100 cubic yards of contaminated soil and debris in 1989
and moved it to an approved facility.
Entire Site: An investigation of the remaining portions of the site was conducted
in 1990 to determine the extent and nature of site contamination and to identify
technologies for cleanup. This investigation revealed that the earlier emergency
actions had removed all contamination at the site and that no further action was required. At
the request of the State of New Mexico, the EPA sampled the site monitoring wells
periodically to assure that no groundwater contamination had occurred. Results from the
sampling revealed no contamination of the groundwater. The site is scheduled to be deleted
from the NPL in late 1992.
Environmental Progress
With the emergency removal of contaminated soils and debris, the EPA has removed the
sources of contamination and eliminated the potential for exposure to hazardous materials on
the site. Based on site investigation results, the EPA concluded that no further cleanup
actions are required at the site, which were confirmed by periodic monitoring of the
groundwater.
Site Repository
Los Lunas Public Library, 460 Main Street, Los Lunas, NM 87031
PAGANO SALVAGE
15
March 1992
-------
PREWITT ABANDONED
REFINERY
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD980622773
Site Description
REGION 6
McKinley County
West of Prewitt on U.S. Hwy. 65
Other Names:
Petroleum Products Refinery
Prewitt Tar Pits
The Prewitt Abandoned Refinery site, situated on 75 acres, was run under several different
operators from the early 1940s to 1965. The Navajo Indian Tribe has owned the property
since 1966. The site consists of two tracts: Tract A (68 acres) bears the ruins of the refinery,
waste pits, tank bases, and rubble from removed equipment, and Tract B (7 acres) includes
two major spill areas and the remains of a pump lift station. In 1982, the New Mexico
Environmental Improvement Division detected benzene in a nearby private well and, in 1986,
detected benzene and xylenes in an on-site well to a depth of 17 feet. About 1,600 people
draw from the public and private wells within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with lead and volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) including xylene and toluene. Possible hazards include direct contact with
or ingestion of contaminated groundwater. Contamination of residential wells
adjacent to the site has been recorded. One well has been closed, and a second
has become contaminated.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
16
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Under agreements with the EPA, former owners of the
refinery have begun activities to reduce immediate threats posed by the site. In
1989, they built a security fence and began treating well water to remove
contamination, protecting nearby residents from contaminants. In 1990, an alternate water
supply was provided to residents, and a carbon filtration system was installed.
Entire Site: The former owners began an extensive investigation to explore the
nature and extent of the contamination in 1989. This study, conducted under EPA
supervision, was completed in 1992. The EPA is expected to select the final
cleanup remedies for the site in late 1992, with actual site cleanup scheduled to begin in
1993.
Site Facts: In 1989, an Administrative Order was issued to parties potentially responsible for
the site contamination to fence the site and to treat contaminated water wells. Also, in 1989,
an Administrative Order was signed with potentially responsible parties to conduct an
investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify alternatives
for cleanup.
Environmental Progress
By fencing the site and treating the contaminated well water, the nearby residents are being
protected from contaminants, making the Prewitt Abandoned Refinery site safer while
cleanup activities are being planned.
Site Repository
Prewitt Fire House, Highway 66, Prewitt, NM 87045
PREWITT ABANDONED REFINERY
17
March 1992
-------
SOUTH VALLEY
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD980745558
EPA REGION 6
Bernalillo County
Albuquerque
Other Names:
South Valley PCS Tank Site
Site Description
The South Valley site encompasses approximately 1 square mile, with a number of industrial
properties owned and operated by different organizations forming the site. Industrial
development in South Valley began in the 1950s, including metal parts manufacturing. By the
1960s, organic chemicals were being handled in the area. Presently, petroleum fuels and
various other organic chemicals are stored and handled within the area. The main activity on
the Duke City property is the repackaging of petroleum and related automotive products,
including antifreeze, diesel fuel, gasoline, and methanol. The Whitfield property was in
operation until 1986, as a delivery truck base for shipping bulk jet fuel, diesel fuel, asphalt,
caustic soda, nitric acid, and sulfuric acid products. The Edmunds Street property, located in
the southeastern corner of the site, was the location of several chemical and solvent
distribution operations. Another contaminated area surrounds the SJ-6 municipal water well,
which was shut down in 1980 due to the continual detection of low levels of solvents. In 1951,
the Atomic Energy Commission conducted machining of metal parts, plating, and welding on
the western portion of the site. In 1967, the Air Force took over the property and converted
the plant into an aircraft engine manufacturing plant operated by General Electric. General
Electric then bought the plant in 1983, and currently produces aircraft engine parts. South
Valley has been designated as the State's highest priority site for cleanup due to the presence
of potentially high concentrations of hazardous substances in the groundwater near the City
of San Jose's well field. Several aquifers underlie the site. Approximately 70,000 people in
Albuquerque are served by the San Jose reservoir system. A residential district of 590 people
lies just to the north of the General Electric facility.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/23/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
18
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and soil are contaminated with volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) including toluene and xylenes. The groundwater, which is contaminated
with up to 47 compounds, has migrated into Albuquerque's sole source aquifer.
Thirteen off-site wells have shown contamination. All these wells are now closed.
Because of the gardens and livestock nearby, the food chain is at risk.
Groundwater on site is not currently in use. Direct contact with contaminants and
inhalation of vapors also are threats to on-site workers. Workers at Chevron,
Texaco, and Duke City are most susceptible to the contamination, because these
sites have the greatest surface soil contamination.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in five stages: initial actions and four long-term remedial phases
focusing on groundwater treatment near municipal well SJ-6, groundwater treatment at the
Edmunds Street Groundwater, cleanup of Edmunds Street Sources, and cleanup of
contaminants at the General Electric property.
Response Action Status
Initial Action: In 1984, the EPA removed 3,450 gallons of contaminated oil and
63,580 pounds of contaminated soil and debris, along with a 48,140-pound tanker.
All materials were disposed of off site. The excavated areas were then backfilled
and graded. A new well was installed by the EPA in 1988 to replace the capacity of the
contaminated municipal well SJ-6.
Groundwater: In order to address the groundwater contamination in the vicinity
of municipal well SJ-6, the EPA has given the potentially responsible parties the
responsibility of removing and disposing of 100 yards of contaminated sediments at
the base of the SJ-6 borehole, sealing abandoned wells, monitoring the groundwater, and
putting up restrictions to site access. To date, 16 wells have been plugged that could be a
conduit for contamination to reach the deep aquifer. Four additional wells will be plugged
once access agreements are obtained. All actions are underway and are scheduled to be
completed in late 1992. Cleanup at adjacent areas of the site, as well as these source control
measures, will reduce the plume concentrations to below State health criteria within 5 years.
Federal health criteria already are being attained.
Edmunds Street Groundwater: The parties responsible for this area of
contamination are pumping and treating the groundwater by air stripping. The
treated water is being injected into the aquifer via an infiltration gallery.
Groundwater and air monitoring also is underway. These actions are scheduled for
completion in late 1992.
SOUTH VALLEY 19 March 1992
-------
Edmunds Street Sources: Based on studies by the parties potentially
responsible for sources of contamination at the Edmunds Street property, the EPA
determined in 1989 that no further cleanup actions were required to address these
sources of site contamination. The initial actions performed at the site have removed the
contamination sources.
General Electric Property: Four hazardous waste storage areas and
contaminated groundwater around the General Electric property will be addressed
by the potentially responsible parties. The remedies selected are installing soil
vapor extraction wells and extracting contaminants from the soil with vacuum pressure.
Groundwater extraction wells in both the shallow and the deep aquifer will be installed.
Extracted water will be treated by air stripping followed by carbon adsorption and reinjection
of treated water into the aquifers. The soil vapor extraction systems have been installed at
the north and south end of the General Electric plant. The final design of the shallow
groundwater extraction wells are underway. The deep aquifer drilling is taking place to define
the horizontal and vertical extent of the contaminated plume. The initial design of the deep
aquifer remedy is expected to be completed in late 1992. The soil vapor extracation system
and treatment of shallow groundwater are scheduled to be completed in 1994. Treatment of
the deep groundwater is expected to take a few years longer.
Site Facts: Groundwater was first suspected to be contaminated in 1978, when peculiar
tastes and odors were noted by users of a private well on the Edmunds Street property.
Investigations into the General Electric property were conducted from 1984 to 1988 by the
Air Force under a Memorandum of Understanding with the EPA. In 1989, a Unilateral
Administrative Order was issued to General Electric.
Environmental Progress
Through the immediate removal of contaminated oil, soil, and debris, the installation of a
new well, and the ongoing treatment of remaining contaminated soil, the EPA has reduced
possible hazardous exposures at the South Valley site while groundwater extraction and
treatment are being planned.
Site Repository
Albuquerque Public Library, 501 Copper Avenue, Northwest, Albuquerque, NM 87102
March 1992 20 SOUTH VALLEY
-------
UNITED NUCLEAR
CORPORATI
NEW MEXICO
EPA ID# NMD030443303
Site Description
EPA REGION 6
McKinley County
Church Rock,
17 miles northeast of Gallup
Other Names:
UNC Mining and Milling
Church Rock Mill
The United Nuclear Corporation site operated as a State-licensed uranium mill from 1977 to
1982. It includes a 25-acre ore-processing mill and a 100-acre unlined mine tailings pond
area. Approximately 3 1/2 million tons of tailings were pumped to disposal ponds by 1982. In
1979, a dam breach released about 23 million gallons of tailings and pond water to Pipeline
Canyon Arroyo and the Rio Puerco. While the site damage was repaired, attention was
focused on groundwater contamination resulting from tailings seepage and wastewater
discharge. Three aquifers are contaminated; the alluvial, the Upper Gallup Zone 3, and the
Upper Gallup Zone 1. The mill ceased operations in 1982. In 1986, the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission (NRC) took over licensing authority for the site. The surrounding area is
sparsely populated, with the nearest residence located 1 1/2 miles from the site. A Navajo
Indian Reservation lies 1/2 mile to the north of the site. Four water wells are within a 4-mile
radius, the nearest being 2 miles northeast of the site; however, nearby residents generally
have used bottled water for drinking, since the well water had a bad taste.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
Threats and Contaminants
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/23/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
ZE
The groundwater, soil, and surface water are contaminated with radioactive
elements, sulfate, aluminum, ammonia, and iron from mining wastes. Possible
health threats include accidental ingestion of, inhalation of, or direct contact with
the contaminants. The Upper Gallup aquifer is contaminated by seepage from the
tailings ponds.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
21
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The potentially responsible parties repaired the dam breach
that dumped 23 million gallons of tailings and pond water into the Rio Puerco in
1979. The parties also constructed a groundwater pumping system that withdrew
groundwater from the aquifers underlying the site and sent it to an on-site borrow pit for
evaporation. Also, they conducted tailings neutralization from 1979 to 1982. A pond
evaporation system was installed in 1989, as well as a cluster of pumping wells, to augment
the groundwater treatment system.
Entire Site: In 1988, the EPA finished an intensive investigation of site
contaminants and potential cleanup strategies. The selected remedies include: a
monitoring program that will detect any spreading or intensification of the
contamination at and beyond the border of the tailings disposal area; operation of existing
seepage extraction systems in the Upper Gallup aquifers; containment and removal of
contaminated groundwater in the alluvial and Upper Gallup sandstone using existing and
additional wells; evaporation of groundwater removed from aquifers outside the disposal area,
using evaporation ponds supplemented with mist or spray systems to speed evaporation; and a
performance and evaluation program to determine water level and contaminant reductions in
each aquifer, and the extent and duration of pumping actually required outside the tailings
disposal area. The EPA and the NRC are managing separate phases of the site's cleanup.
Both are managing cleanup of groundwater outside the disposal area. In 1991, the NRC
disassembled the mill, disposed of the debris in Borrow Pit #2, and covered the pit with 3 to
4 feet of fill. The area where the mill was disassembled was regraded and an interim soil
cover was placed over it. The NRC is also responsible for the removal of contaminated
groundwater and reclamation of the mill site. The potentially responsible parties are
performing the work under Federal supervision. Cleanup activities are scheduled for
completion in 1997.
Site Facts: In 1989, the EPA issued an Administrative Order to the potentially responsible
parties, requiring them to perform groundwater cleanup activities.
Environmental Progress
The initial actions performed at the United Nuclear Corporation site have stabilized the mine
tailings and have protected the Rio Puerco from further contamination spills. Groundwater
treatment is underway, reducing contamination levels while further cleanup activities are
being completed.
Site Repository
Gallup Public Library, 115 West Hill Avenue, Gallup, NM 87301
March 1992 22 UNITED NUCLEAR CORPORATION
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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
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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 arid maintain two-way communication
with the public. The goals of community
relations programs include creating an under-
standing of EPA programs and related actions,
assuring public input into decision-making
processes related to affected communities, and
making certain that the Agency is aware of, and
responsive to, public concerns. Specific com-
munity relations activities are required in
relation to Superfund cleanup actions [see
Comment Period].
Comprehensive Environmental Re-
sponse, Compensation, and Liability
Act (CERCLA): Congress enacted the
CERCLA, known as Superfund, in 1980 to
respond directly to hazardous waste problems
that may pose a threat to the public health and
the environment. The EPA administers the
Superfund program.
Confluence: The place where two bodies of
water, such as streams or rivers, come together.
Confined Aquifer: An aquifer in which
groundwater is confined under pressure that is
significantly greater than atmospheric pressure.
G-3
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GLOSSARY
Consent Decree: A legal document, ap-
proved and issued by a judge, formalizing an
agreement between the EPA and the parties
potentially responsible for site contamination.
The decree describes cleanup actions that the
potentially responsible parties are required to
perform, or the costs incurred by the govern-
ment that the parties will reimburse, and the
roles, responsibilities, and enforcement options
that the government may exercise in the event of
non-compliance by potentially responsible
parties. If a settlement between the EPA and a
potentially responsible party includes cleanup
actions, it must be in the form of a Consent
Decree. A Consent Decree is subject to a public
comment period.
Consent Order: [see Administrative Order
on Consent].
Containment: The process of enclosing or
containing hazardous substances in a structure,
typically in a pond or a lagoon, to prevent the
migration of contaminants into the environment.
Contaminant: Any physical, chemical,
biological, or radiological material or substance
whose quantity, location, or nature produces
undesirable health or environmental effects.
Contingency Plan: A document setting
out an organized, planned, and coordinated
course of action to be followed in case of a
fire, explosion, or other accident that releases
toxic chemicals, hazardous wastes, or radioac-
tive materials into the environment.
Cooperative Agreement: A contract
between the EPA and the States, wherein a State
agrees to manage or monitor certain site cleanup
responsibilities and other activities on a cost-
sharing basis.
Cost Recovery: A legal process by which
potentially responsible parties can be required
to pay back the Superfund program for money
it spends on any cleanup actions [see Poten-
tially Responsible Parties].
Cover: Vegetation or other material placed
over a landfill or other waste material. It can
be designed to reduce movement of water into
the waste and to prevent erosion that could
cause the movement of contaminants.
Creosotes: Chemicals used in wood pre-
serving operations and produced by distilla-
tion of tar, including polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons and polynuclear aromatic
hydrocarbons [see PAHs and PNAs]. Con-
taminating sediments, soils, and surface
water, creosotes may cause skin ulcerations
and cancer through prolonged exposure.
Culvert: A pipe used for drainage under a
road, railroad track, path, or through an embank-
ment.
Decommission: To revoke a license to
operate and take out of service.
Degradation: The process by which a chemi-
cal is reduced to a less complex form.
Degrease: To remove grease from wastes,
soils, or chemicals, usually using solvents.
Deletion: A site is eligible for deletion from
the NPL when Superfund response actions at the
site are complete. A site is deleted from the
NPL when a notice is published in the Federal
Register.
De minimis: This legal phrase pertains to
settlements with parties who contributed small
amounts of hazardous waste to a site. This
process allows the EPA to settle with small, or
de minimis contributors, as a single group rather
than as individuals, saving time, money, and
effort.
Dewater: To remove water from wastes, soils,
or chemicals.
G-4
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GLOSSARY
Dike: A low wall that can act as a barrier to
prevent a spill from spreading.
Dioxin: An organic chemical by-product of
pesticide manufacture which is known to be one
of the most toxic man-made chemicals.
Disposal: Final placement or destruction of
toxic, radioactive, or other wastes; surplus or
banned pesticides or other chemicals; polluted
soils; and drums containing hazardous materials.
Disposal may be accomplished through the use
of approved secure landfills, surface impound-
ments, land farming, deep well injection, or
incineration.
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
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GLOSSARY
Filtration: A treatment process for remov-
ing solid (participate) matter from water by
passing the water through sand, activated
carbon, or a man-made filter. The process is
often used to remove particles that contain
contaminants.
Flood Plain: An area along a river, formed
from sediment deposited by floods. Flood
plains periodically are innundated by natural
floods, which can spread contamination.
Flue Gas: The air that is emitted from a
chimney after combustion in the burner
occurs. The gas can include nitrogen oxides,
carbon oxides, water vapor, sulfur oxides,
particles, and many chemical pollutants.
Fly Ash: Non-combustible residue that results
from the combustion of flue gases. It can
include nitrogen oxides, carbon oxides, water
vapor, sulfur oxides, as well as many other
chemical pollutants.
French Drain System: A crushed rock drain
system constructed of perforated pipes, which is
used to drain and disperse wastewater.
Gasification (coal): The conversion of soft
coal into gas for use as a fuel.
General Notice Letter: [See Notice Letter].
Generator: A facility that emits pollutants
into the air or releases hazardous wastes into
water or soil.
Good Faith Offer: A voluntary offer, gener-
ally in response to a Special Notice letter, made
by a potentially responsible party, consisting of
a written proposal demonstrating a potentially
responsible party's qualifications and willing-
ness to perform a site study or cleanup.
Groundwater: Water that fills pores in soils
or openings in rocks to the point of saturation.
In aquifers, groundwater occurs in sufficient
quantities for use as drinking and irrigation
water and other purposes.
Groundwater Quality Assessment: The
process of analyzing the chemical characteris-
tics of groundwater to determine whether any
hazardous materials exist.
Halogens: Reactive non-metals, such as
chlorine and bromine. Halogens are very
good oxidizing agents and, therefore, have
many industrial uses. They are rarely found
by themselves; however, many chemicals
such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
some volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
and dioxin are reactive because of the pres-
ence of halogens.
Hazard Ranking System (HRS): The
principal screening tool used by the EPA to
evaluate relative risks to public health and the
environment associated with abandoned or
uncontrolled hazardous waste sites. The HRS
calculates a score based on the potential of
hazardous substances spreading from the site
through the air, surface water, or groundwater
and on other factors such as nearby popula-
tion. The HRS score is the primary factor in
deciding if the site should be on the NPL.
Hazardous Waste: By-products of society
that can pose a substantial present or potential
hazard to human health and the environment
when improperly managed. Hazardous waste
possesses at least one of four characteristics
(ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxic -
ity), or appears on special EPA lists.
Heavy Metals: Metallic elements with high
atomic weights, such as arsenic, lead, mercury,
and cadmium. Heavy metals are very hazardous
even at low concentrations and tend to accumu-
late in the food chain.
Herbicide: A chemical pesticide designed to
control or destroy plants, weeds, or grasses.
G-6
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GLOSSARY
Hot Spot: An area or vicinity of a site contain-
ing exceptionally high levels of contamination.
Hydrocarbons: Chemical compounds that
consist entirely of hydrogen and carbon.
Hydrology: The properties, distribution, and
circulation of water.
Hydrogeology: The geology of groundwater,
with particular emphasis on the chemistry and
movement of water.
Impoundment: A body of water or sludge
confined by a dam, dike, floodgate, or other
barrier.
Incineration: A group of treatment technolo-
gies involving destruction of waste by controlled
burning at high temperatures, e.g., burning
sludge to reduce the remaining residues to a
non-burnable ash that can be disposed of safely
on land, in some waters, or in underground
locations.
Infiltration: The movement of water or
other liquid down through soil from precipita-
tion (rain or snow) or from application of
wastewater to the land surface.
Influent: Water, wastewater, or other liquid
flowing into a reservoir, basin, or treatment
plant.
Injection Well: A well into which waste
fluids are placed, under pressure, for purposes
of disposal.
Inorganic Chemicals: Chemical sub-
stances of mineral origin, not of basic carbon
structure.
Installation Restoration Program: The
specially funded program established in 1978
under which the Department of Defense has
been identifying and evaluating its hazardous
waste sites and controlling the migration of
hazardous contaminants from those sites.
Intake: The source from where a water supply
is drawn, such as from a river or water body.
Interagency Agreement: A written agree-
ment between the EPA and a Federal agency
that has the lead for site cleanup activities,
setting forth the roles and responsibilities of the
agencies for performing and overseeing the
activities. States often are parties to interagency
agreements.
Interim (Permit) Status: Conditions under
which hazardous waste treatment, storage,
and disposal facilities, that were operating
when regulations under the RCRA became
final in 1980, are temporarily allowed by the
EPA to continue to operate while awaiting
denial or issuance of a permanent permit. The
facility must comply with certain regulations
to maintain interim status.
Lagoon: A shallow pond or liquid waste
containment structure. Lagoons typically are
used for the storage of wastewaters, sludges,
liquid wastes, or spent nuclear fuel.
Landfarm: To apply waste to land or incor-
porate waste into the surface soil, such as
fertilizer or soil conditioner. This practice
commonly is used for disposal of composted
wastes and sludges.
Landfill: A disposal facility where waste is
placed in or on land. Sanitary landfills are
disposal sites for non-hazardous solid wastes.
The waste is spread in layers, compacted to the
smallest practical volume, and covered with soil
at the end of each operating day. Secure chemi-
cal landfills are disposal sites for hazardous
waste. They are designed to minimize the
chance of release of hazardous substances into
the environment [see Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act].
Leach, Leaching [v.t.]: The process by
which soluble chemical components are dis-
solved and carried through soil by water or
some other percolating liquid.
G-7
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GLOSSARY
Leachate [n]: The liquid that trickles through
or drains from waste, carrying soluble compo-
nents from the waste.
Leachate Collection System: A system
that gathers liquid that has leaked into a landfill
or other waste disposal area and pumps it to the
surface for treatment.
Liner: A relatively impermeable barrier
designed to prevent leachate (waste residue)
from leaking from a landfill. Liner materials
include plastic and dense clay.
Long-term Remedial Phase: Distinct,
often incremental, steps that are taken to solve
site pollution problems. Depending on the
complexity, site cleanup activities can be
separated into several of these phases.
Long-term Response Action: An action
which requires a continuous period of on-site
activity before cleanup goals are achieved.
These actions typically include the extraction
and treatment of groundwater and monitoring
actions.
Marsh: A type of wetland that does not
contain peat moss deposits and is dominated by
vegetation. Marshes may be either fresh or
saltwater and tidal or non-tidal [see Wetland].
Migration: The movement of oil, gas, con-
taminants, water, or other liquids through porous
and permeable soils or rock.
Mill Tailings: [See Mine Tailings].
Mine Tailings: A fine, sandy residue left from
mining operations. Tailings often contain high
concentrations of lead, uranium, and arsenic or
other heavy metals.
Mitigation: Actions taken to improve site
conditions by limiting, reducing, or controlling
toxicity and contamination sources.
Modeling: A technique using a mathematical
or physical representation of a system or theory
that tests the effects that changes on system
components have on the overall performance of
the system.
Monitoring Wells: Special wells drilled at
specific locations within, or surrounding, a
hazardous waste site where groundwater can be
sampled at selected depths and studied to obtain
such information as the direction in which
groundwater flows and the types and amounts of
contaminates present.
National Priorities List (NPL): The
EPA's list of the most serious uncontrolled or
abandoned hazardous waste sites identified
for possible long-term cleanup under Super-
fund. The EPA is required to update the NPL
at least once a year.
Natural Attenuation: [See Attenuation].
Neutrals: Organic compounds that have a
relatively neutral pH, complex structure and,
due to their organic bases, are easily absorbed
into the environment. Water is the most
commonly known neutral, however, naphtha-
lene, pyrene, and trichlorobenzene also are
examples of neutrals.
Nitroaromatics: Common components of
explosive materials, which will explode if
activated by very high temperatures or pres-
sures; 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) is a
nitroaromatic.
Notice Letter: A General Notice Letter
notifies the parties potentially responsible for
site contamination of their possible liability. A
Special Notice Letter begins a 60-day formal
period of negotiation during which the EPA is
not allowed to start work at a site or initiate
enforcement actions against potentially respon-
sible parties, although the EPA may undertake
certain investigatory and planning activities.
G-8
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GLOSSARY
The 60-day period may be extended if the EPA
receives a good faith offer from the PRPs
within that period. [See also Good Faith Offer].
On-Scene Coordinator (OSC): The
predesignated EPA, Coast Guard, or Depart-
ment of Defense official who coordinates and
directs Superfund removal actions or Clean
Water Act oil- or hazardous-spill corrective
actions.
Operation and Maintenance: Activities
conducted at a site after a cleanup action is
completed to ensure that the cleanup or
containment system is functioning properly.
Organic Chemicals/Compounds:
Chemical substances containing mainly
carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Outfall: The place where wastewater is
discharged into receiving waters.
Over packing: Process used for isolating
large volumes of waste by jacketing or encap-
sulating waste to prevent further spread or
leakage of contaminating materials. Leaking
drums may be contained within oversized
barrels as an interim measure prior to removal
and final disposal.
Pentachlorophenol (PCP): A synthetic,
modified petrochemical that may be used as a
wood preservative because of its toxicity to
termites and fungi. It is a common component
of creosotes and can cause cancer.
Perched (groundwater): Groundwater
separated from another underlying body of
groundwater by a confining layer, often clay or
rock.
Percolation: The downward flow or filtering
of water or other liquids through subsurface
rock or soil layers, usually continuing down-
ward to groundwater.
Pesticide: A substance or mixture of sub-
stances intended to prevent, destroy, or repel any
pest. If misused, pesticides can accumulate in
the foodchain and contaminate the environment.
Petrochemicals: Chemical substances
produced from petroleum in refinery operations
and as fuel oil residues. These include
fluoranthene, chrysene, mineral spirits, and
refined oils. Petrochemicals are the bases from
which volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
plastics, and many pesticides are made. These
chemical substances often are toxic to humans
and the environment.
Phenols: Organic compounds that are used in
plastics manufacturing and are by-products of
petroleum refining, tanning, textile, dye, and
resin manufacturing. Phenols are highly poison-
ous.
Physical Chemical Separation: The
treatment process of adding a chemical to a
substance to separate the compounds for further
treatment or disposal.
Pilot Testing: A small-scale test of a pro-
posed treatment system in the field to determine
its ability to clean up specific contaminants.
Plugging: The process of stopping the flow of
water, oil, or gas into or out of the ground
through a borehole or well penetrating the
ground.
Plume: A body of contaminated groundwater
flowing from a specific source. The movement
of the groundwater is influenced by such factors
as local groundwater flow patterns, the character
of the aquifer in which groundwater is con-
tained, and the density of contaminants [see
Migration].
Pollution: Generally, the presence of matter
or energy whose nature, location, or quantity
produces undesired health or environmental
effects.
G-9
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GLOSSARY
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.
Poly nuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons
(PNAs): PNAs, such as naphthalene, and
biphenyls, are a group of highly reactive organic
compounds that are a common component of
creosotes, which can be carcinogenic.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): A plastic made
from the gaseous substance vinyl chloride. PVC
is used to make pipes, records, raincoats, and
floor tiles. Health risks from high concentra-
tions of vinyl chloride include liver cancer and
lung cancer, as well as cancer of the lymphatic
and nervous systems.
Potable Water: Water that is safe for drink-
ing and cooking.
Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs):
Parties associated with a Superfund site who
may be liable for the cost of remedying the
release of hazardous substances. This may
include owners or operators of the site or trans-
porters who disposed of materials at the site.
PRPs may admit liability, or liability may be
determined by a court of law. PRPs may sign a
Consent Decree or Administrative Order on
Consent to participate in the site cleanup without
admitting liability.
Precipitation: The removal of solids from
liquid waste so that the solid and liquid portions
can be disposed of safely; the removal of
particles from airborne emissions. Electro-
chemical precipitation is the use of an anode or
cathode to remove the hazardous chemicals.
Chemical precipitation involves the addition of
some substance to cause the solid portion to
separate.
Preliminary Assessment: The process of
collecting and reviewing available information
about a known or suspected waste site or release
to determine if a threat or potential threat exists.
Pump and Treat: A groundwater cleanup
technique involving the extracting of contami-
nated groundwater from the subsurface and the
removal of contaminants, using one of several
treatment technologies.
Radionuclides: Elements, including radium
and uranium-235 and -238, which break down
and produce radioactive substances due to their
unstable atomic structure. Some are man-made,
and others are naturally occurring in the envi-
ronment. Radon, the gaseous form of radium,
decays to form alpha particle radiation, which
cannot be absorbed through skin. However, it
can be inhaled, which allows alpha particles to
affect unprotected tissues directly and thus cause
cancer. Radiation also occurs naturally through
the breakdown of granite.
RCRA: [See Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act].
Recharge Area: A land area where rainwater
saturates the ground and soaks through the earth
to reach an aquifer.
G-10
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GLOSSARY
Record of Decision (ROD): A public
document that explains which cleanup
alternative(s) will be used to clean up sites
listed on the NPL, It is based on information
generated during the remedial investigation
and feasibility study and consideration of
public comments and community concerns.
Recovery Wells: Wells used to withdraw
contaminants or contaminated groundwater.
Recycle: The process of minimizing waste
generation by recovering usable products that
might otherwise become waste.
Remedial Action (RA): The actual con-
struction or implementation phase of a
Superfund site cleanup following the remedial
design [see Cleanup].
Remedial Design: A phase of site cleanup
where engineers design the technical specifi-
cations for cleanup remedies and technolo-
gies.
Remedial Investigation: An in-depth
study designed to gather the data necessary to
determine the nature and extent of contamina-
tion at a Superfund site, establish the criteria
for cleaning up the site, identify the prelimi-
nary alternatives for cleanup actions, and
support the technical and cost analyses of the
alternatives. The remedial investigation is
usually done with the feasibility study. In this
volume, the remedial investigation is referred
to as a site study [see also Feasibility Study].
Remedial Project Manager (RPM): The
EPA or State official responsible for oversee-
ing cleanup actions at the site.
Remedy Selection: The selection of the
final cleanup strategy for the site. At the few
sites where the EPA has determined that
initial response actions have eliminated site
contamination, or that any remaining con-
tamination will be naturally dispersed without
further cleanup activities, a "No Action"
remedy is selected [see Record of Decision].
Removal Action: Short-term immediate
actions taken to address releases of hazardous
substances [see Cleanup].
Residual: The amount of a pollutant re-
maining in the environment after a natural or
technological process has taken place, e.g.,
the sludge remaining after initial wastewater
treatment, or the particulates remaining in air
after the air passes through a scrubber.
Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA): A Federal law that established
a regulatory system to track hazardous sub-
stances from the time of generation to dis-
posal. The law requires safe and secure
procedures to be used in treating, transport-
ing, storing, and disposing of hazardous
substances. RCRA is designed to prevent
new, uncontrolled hazardous waste sites.
Retention Pond: A small body of liquid
used for disposing of wastes and containing
overflow from production facilities. Some-
times retention ponds are used to expand the
capacity of such structures as lagoons the
store waste.
Runoff: The discharge of water over land
into surface water. It can carry pollutants
from the air and land and spread contaminants
from its source.
Scrubber: An air pollution control device
that uses a spray of water or reactant or a dry
process to trap pollutants in emissions.
Sediment: The layer of soil, sand, and
minerals at the bottom of surface waters such
as streams, lakes, and rivers, that absorbs
contaminants.
G-11
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GLOSSARY
Seeps: Specific points where releases of
liquid, usually leachate, form from waste
disposal areas, particularly along the lower
edges of landfills.
Seepage Pits: A hole, shaft, or cavity in
the ground used for the storage of liquids,
usually in the form of leachate, from waste
disposal areas. The liquid gradually leaves
the pit by moving through the surrounding
soil.
Septage: Residue remaining in a septic tank
after the treatment process.
Sinkhole: A hollow depression in the land
surface in which drainage collects; associated
with underground caves and passages that
facilitate the movement of liquids.
Site Characterization: The technical pro-
cess used to evaluate the nature and extent of
environmental contamination, which is neces-
sary for choosing and designing cleanup mea-
sures and monitoring their effectiveness.
Site Inspection: The collection of informa-
tion from a hazardous waste site to determine
the extent and severity of hazards posed by the
site. It follows, and is more extensive than, a
preliminary assessment. The purpose is to
gather information necessary to score the site,
using the Hazard Ranking System, and to
determine if the site presents an immediate
threat that requires a prompt removal action.
Slag: The fused refuse or dross separated
from a metal in the process of smelting.
Sludge: Semi-solid residues from industrial
or water treatment processes that may be
contaminated with hazardous materials.
Slurry Wall: Barriers used to contain the flow
of contaminated groundwater or subsurface
liquids. Slurry walls are constructed by digging
a trench around a contaminated area and filling
the trench with an impermeable material that
prevents water from passing through it. The
groundwater or contaminated liquids trapped
within the area surrounded by the slurry wall
can be extracted and treated.
Smelter: A facility that melts or fuses ore,
often with an accompanying chemical change,
to separate the metal. Emissions from smelters
are known to cause pollution.
Soil Gas: Gaseous elements and compounds
that occur in the small spaces between par-
ticles of soil. Such gases can move through
or leave the soil or rock, depending on
changes in pressure.
Soil Vapor Extraction: A treatment
process that uses vacuum wells to remove
hazardous gases from soil.
Soil Washing: A water-based process for
mechanically scrubbing soils in-place to remove
undesirable materials. There are two ap-
proaches: dissolving or suspending them in the
wash solution for later treatment by conven-
tional methods, and concentrating them into a
smaller volume of soil through simple particle
size separation techniques [see Solvent Extrac-
tion].
Stabilization: The process of changing an
active substance into inert, harmless material,
or physical activities at a site that act to limit
the further spread of contamination without
actual reduction of toxicity.
Solidification/Stabilization: A chemical
or physical reduction of the mobility of
hazardous constituents. Mobility is reduced
through the binding of hazardous constituents
into a solid mass with low permeability and
resistance to leaching.
G-12
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GLOSSARY
Solvent: A substance capable of dissolving
another substance to form a solution. The
primary uses of industrial solvents are as
cleaners for degreasing, in paints, and in
Pharmaceuticals. Many solvents are flam-
mable and toxic to varying degrees.
Solvent Extraction: A means of separating
hazardous contaminants from soils, sludges,
and sediment, thereby reducing the volume of
the hazardous waste that must be treated. It
generally is used as one in a series of unit
operations. An organic chemical is used to
dissolve contaminants as opposed to water-
based compounds, which usually are used in
soil washing.
Sorption: The action of soaking up or
attracting substances. It is used in many
pollution control systems.
Special Notice Letter: [See Notice Let-
ter].
Still bottom: Residues left over from the
process of recovering spent solvents.
Stripping: A process used to remove volatile
contaminants from a substance [see Air Strip-
ping].
Sumps: A pit or tank that catches liquid
runoff for drainage or disposal.
Superfund: The program operated under the
legislative authority of the CERCLA and
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization
Act (SARA) to update and improve environ-
mental laws. The program has the authority to
respond directly to releases or threatened re-
leases of hazardous substances that may endan-
ger public health, welfare, or the environment.
The "Superfund" is a trust fund that finances
cleanup actions at hazardous waste sites.
Surge Tanks: A holding structure used to
absorb irregularities in flow of liquids, including
liquid waste materials.
Swamp: A type of wetland that is dominated
by woody vegetation and does not accumulate
peat moss deposits. Swamps may be fresh or
saltwater and tidal or non-tidal [see Wetlands].
Thermal Treatment: The use of heat to
remove or destroy contaminants from soil.
Treatability Studies: Testing a treatment
method on contaminated groundwater, soil, etc.,
to determine whether and how well the method
will work.
Trichloroethylene (TCE): A stable, color-
less liquid with a low boiling point. TCE has
many industrial applications, including use as
a solvent and as a metal degreasing agent.
TCE may be toxic to people when inhaled,
ingested, or through skin contact and can
damage vital organs, especially the liver [see
Volatile Organic Compounds].
Unilateral [Administrative] Order: [see
Administrative Order].
Upgradient: An upward hydrologic slope;
demarks areas that are higher than contaminated
areas and, therefore, are not prone to contamina-
tion by the movement of polluted groundwater.
Vacuum Extraction: A technology used to
remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
from soils. Vacuum pumps are connected to a
series of wells drilled to just above the water
table. The wells are sealed tightly at the soil
surface, and the vacuum established in the soil
draws VOC-contaminated air from the soil
pores into the well, as fresh air is drawn down
from the surface of the soil.
G-13
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GLOSSARY
Vegetated Soil Cap: A cap constructed with
graded soils and seed for vegetative growth, to
prevent erosion [see Cap].
Vitrification: The process of electrically
melting wastes and soils or sludges to bind the
waste in a glassy, solid material more durable
than granite or marble and resistant to leaching.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):
VOCs are manufactured as secondary petro-
chemicals. They include light alcohols, acetone,
trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene,
dichloroethylene, benzene, vinyl chloride,
toluene, and methylene chloride. These poten-
tially toxic chemicals are used as solvents,
degreasers, paints, thinners, and fuels. Because
of their volatile nature, they readily evaporate
into the air, increasing the potential exposure to
humans. Due to their low water solubility,
environmental persistence, and widespread
industrial use, they are commonly found in soil
and groundwater.
Waste Treatment Plant: A facility that
uses a series of tanks, screens, filters, and
other treatment processes to remove pollut-
ants from water.
Waste water: The spent or used water from
individual homes or industries.
Watershed: The land area that drains into a
stream or other water body.
Water Table: The upper surface of the
groundwater.
Weir: A barrier to divert water or other liquids.
Wetland: An area that is regularly saturated
by surface or groundwater and, under normal
circumstances, is capable of supporting
vegetation typically adapted for life in satu-
rated soil conditions. Wetlands are critical to
sustaining many species of fish and wildlife.
Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes,
and bogs. Wetlands may be either coastal or
inland. Coastal wetlands have salt or brackish
(a mixture of salt and fresh) water, and most
have tides, while inland wetlands are non-
tidal and freshwater. Coastal wetlands are an
integral component of estuaries.
Wildlife Refuge: An area designated for
the protection of wild animals, within which
hunting and fishing are either prohibited or
strictly controlled.
G-14
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GLOSSARY
Some Common Contaminants at NPL Sites
Contaminant
Category
Example
Chemical Types
Sources
Jteavy Metals
Volatile Organic
Compounds
(VOOs)
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-B35:81u41
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