EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Solid Waste And
Emergency Response
(5102 G)
SUPERFUND:
EPA/540/R-93/044
December 1992
PB93-963246
Progress at
National
Priority
List Sites
WASHINGTON
1992 UPDATE
• tinted on Recycled Paper
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Publication #9200.5-7468
December 1992
NATIONAL PRIORITIES LIST SITES:
Washington
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
7?8West Jackson Boulevard, 12th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604-3590
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Office of Emergency & Remedial Response
Office of Program Management
Washington, DC 20460
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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
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.
Kentucky had entered the popular lexicon as
synonyms for pollution and environmental
degradation.
A Big Job
Few in Congress, the EPA, the environmen-
tal community, or the general public knew in
19X0 just how big the nation's hazardous ma-
terials problem is. Almost everyone thought
that Superfund would be a short-lived pro-
gram requiring relatively few resources to
clean up at most a few hundred sites. They
were quite mistaken.
As the EPA set to work finding sites and
gauging their potential to harm people and
the environment, the number of sites grew.
Each discovery seemed to lead to another,
and today almost 36,000 hazardous waste
sites have been investigated as potential haz-
ardous waste sites. They are catalogued in
the EPA's computerized database, CERCLIS
(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
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.
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.
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
Discovery
V V
i_ _ t^ti (. +i
Cleanup On-q
Comn
^ r Relatio
Entorc
Li-ting
V
Planning
V
Cleanup
omg
lunity
ns and
ement
r
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
I he site fact sheets presented in this book
JL are comprehensive summaries that cover
a broad range of information. The fact sheets
describe hazardous waste sites on the NPL and
their locations, as well as the conditions
leading to their listing ("Site Description").
The summaries list the types of contaminants
that have been discovered and related threats
to public and ecological health ("Threats and
Contaminants"). "Cleanup Approach" pres-
ents an overview of the cleanup activities
completed, underway, or planned. The fact
sheets conclude with a brief synopsis of how
much progress has been made in protecting
public health and the environment. The
summaries also pinpoint other actions, such as
legal efforts to involve polluters responsible
for site contamination and community con-
cerns.
The fact sheets are arranged in alphabetical
order by site name. Because site cleanup is a
dynamic and gradual process, all site informa-
tion is accurate as of the date shown on the
bottom of each page. Progress always is being
made at NPL sites, and the EPA periodically
will update the site fact sheets to reflect recent
actions and will publish updated State vol-
umes. The following two pages show a ge-
neric fact sheet and briefly describe the infor-
mation under each section.
How Can You Use
This State Book?
You can use this book to keep informed about
the sites that concern you, particularly ones
close to home. The EPA is committed to
involving the public in the decision making
process associated with hazardous waste
cleanup. The Agency solicits input from area
residents in communities affected by Super-
fund sites. Citizens are likely to be affected
not only by hazardous site conditions, but also
by the remedies that combat them. Site clean-
ups take many forms and can affect communi-
ties in different ways. Local traffic may be
rerouted, residents may be relocated, tempo-
rary water supplies may be necessary.
Definitive information on a site can help
citizens sift through alternatives and make
decisions. To make good choices, you must
know what the threats are and how the EPA
intends to clean up the site. You must under-
stand the cleanup alternatives being proposed
for site cleanup and how residents may be
affected by each one. You also need to have
some idea of how your community intends to
use the site in the future, and you need to know
what the community can realistically expect
once the cleanup is complete.
The EPA wants to develop cleanup methods
that meet community needs, but the Agency
only can take local concerns into account if it
understands what they are. Information must
travel both ways in order for cleanups to be
effective and satisfactory. Please take this
opportunity to learn more, become involved,
and assure that hazardous waste cleanup at
"your" site considers your community's
concerns.
XI
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THE VOLUME
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Provides the dates when the
site was Proposed, made Final,
and Deleted from the NPL.
SITE RESPONSIBILITY
Identifies the Federal, State,
and/or potentially responsible
parties taking responsibility
for cleanup actions at the site.
ENVIRONMENTAL
PROGRESS
Summarizes the actions to
reduce the threats to nearby
residents and the surrounding
environment and the progress
towards cleaning up the site.
SITE NAME
EPA REGION XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
STATE
EPA ID* ABCOOOOOOO
Site Description
Site Responsibility: xxx'
NPL Listing History
Threats and Contaminants
Cleanup Approach
Response Action Status
Environmental Progress
Site Repository
SITE REPOSITORY
Lists the location of the primary site repository. The site
repository may include community relations plans, public
meeting announcements and minutes, fact sheets, press
releases, and other site-related documents.
XII
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THE VOLUME
SITE DESCRIPTION
This section describes the location and history of the site. It includes descrip-
tions of the most recent activities and past actions at the site that have con-
tributed to the contamination. Population estimates, land usages, and nearby
resources give readers background on the local setting surrounding the site.
THREATS AND CONTAMINANTS
The major chemical categories of site contamination are noted, as well as
which environmental resources are affected. Icons representing each of the
affected resources (may include air, groundwater, surface water, soil, and
contamination to environmentally sensitive areas) are included in the margins
of this section. Potential threats to residents and the surrounding environ-
ments arising from the site contamination also are described.
CLEANUP APPROACH
This section contains a brief overview of how the site is being cleaned up.
®
RESPONSE ACTION STATUS
Specific actions that have been accomplished or will be undertaken to clean
up the site are described here. Cleanup activities at NPL sites are divided
into separate phases, depending on the complexity and required actions at the
site. Two major types of cleanup activities often are described: initial,
immediate, or emergency actions to quickly remove or reduce imminent
threats to the community and surrounding areas; and long-term remedial
phases directed at final cleanup at the site. Each stage of the cleanup strategy
is presented in this section of the summary. Icons representing the stage of
the cleanup process (initial actions, site investigations, EPA selection of the
cleanup remedy, engineering design phase, cleanup activities underway, and
completed cleanup) are located in the margin next to each activity descrip-
tion.
SITE FACTS
Additional information on activities and events at the site are included in this
section. Often details on legal or administrative actions taken by the EPA to
achieve site cleanup or other facts pertaining to community involvement with
the site cleanup process are reported here.
XIII
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THE VOLUME
The "icons," or symbols, accompanying the text allow the reader to see at a glance which envi-
ronmental resources are affected and the status of cleanup activities at the site.
Icons in the Threats
and Contaminants
Section
Contaminated Groundwater resources
in the vicinity or underlying the site.
(Groundwater is often used as a drink-
ing water source.)
Contaminated Surface Water and
Sediments on or near the site. (These
include lakes, ponds, streams, and
rivers.)
Contaminated Air in the vicinity of
the site. (Air pollution usually is
periodic and involves contaminated
dust particles or hazardous gas emis-
sions.)
Contaminated Soil and Sludges on or
near the site. (This contamination
category may include bulk or other
surface hazardous wastes found on the
site.)
Threatened or contaminated Environ-
mentally Sensitive Areas in the vicinity
of the site. (Examples include wet-
lands and coastal areas or critical
habitats.)
Icons in the Response
Action Status Section
Initial, Immediate, or Emergency
Actions have been taken or are
underway to eliminate immediate
threats at the site.
Site Studies at the site to determine
the nature and extent of contamination
are planned or underway.
Remedy Selected indicates that site
investigations have been concluded,
and the EPA has selected a final
cleanup remedy for the site or part of
the site.
Remedy Design means that engineers
are preparing specifications and
drawings for the selected cleanup
technologies.
Cleanup Ongoing indicates that the
selected cleanup remedies for the
contaminated site, or part of the site,
currently are underway.
Cleanup Complete shows that all
cleanup goals have been achieved for
the contaminated site or part of the
site.
XIV
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A SUMMARY OF THE STATE PROGRAM
xv
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Superfund
Activities in
Washington
The State of Washington is located
within EPA Region 10, which includes
three northwestern States and Alaska. The
State covers 68,139 square miles. Accord-
ing to the 1990 Census, Washington experienced a
18 percent increase in population between 1980 and 1990, and is
ranked eighteenth in U.S. population with approximately 4,867,000 residents.
The Model Toxics Control Act of 1988 establishes funding for two hazardous waste cleanup
accounts and authorizes enforcement and public participation procedures for hazardous waste
sites. The statute grants the State the authority to compel polluters who are liable for contamina-
tion to conduct or pay for cleanup activities regardless of fault or amount of contributing pollu-
tion, request information and site access, collect civil penalties and damages, and recover the
costs of State actions. The statute also allows citizens to file suits against polluters. The State
maintains two accounts, which include a State and Local Toxics Control Account. In addition to
the 10 percent contribution from the State required by the Federal Superfund program, the State
account may be used for emergency response activities, long-term cleanup actions, study and
design activities, operation and maintenance activities, program administration, and Leaking
Underground Storage Tank (LUST) actions. The local account helps local governments pay for
site cleanups, waste planning, waste reduction and recycling. The State public participation
policy is to establish regional citizens' advisory committees, notify the public about negotiation
activities with polluters and cleanup activities, and authorize public participation grants to af-
fected persons or not-for-profit public interest organizations. Currently, 45 sites in the State of
Washington have been listed as final on the NPL; one site has been deleted. Four new sites were
proposed for listing in 1992.
The Department of Ecology
implements the Superfund Program in the State of Washington
Activities responsible for hazardous
waste contamination in the State of
Washington include:
Manufacturing
Facilities
Federal
Facilities
Pesticide
Manufacturers.
Recycling/
Storage and
Disposal
Facilities
Other
Landfills
Facts about the 50 NPL sites
in Washington:
Immediate Actions (such as removing
hazardous substances or restricting
site access) were performed at 33
sites.
Sixteen sites endanger sensitive
environments.
Thirty-two sites are located near
residential areas.
XVII
March 1992
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WASHINGTON
Most Sites Have Multiple Contaminants and
Contaminated Media:
Media Contaminated at Sites
Contaminants Found at Sites
Air
Surface
Water
Sediments
Soil
Ground-
water
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Percentage of Sites
The Potentially Responsible
Party Pays...
In the State of Washington, potentially respon-
sible parties are paying for or conducting
cleanup activities at 16 sites.
Percentage of Sites
Heavy Metals
VOCs
PCBs
Creosotes
Petrochemicals/Explosives
Cyanide
Radiation
Pesticides/Herbicides
Other*
Dioxin
Acids
Plastics
66%
66%
32%
22%
20%
8%
6%
6%
6%
4%
2%
2%
*Other contaminants include nitrate, alumina, and
fluoride.
For Further Information on NPL Sites and Hazardous
Waste Programs in the State of Washington Please Contact:
•a-
EPA Region 10 Superfund
Community Relations
National Response Center
Department of Ecology: Waste
Management Division, Toxics
Cleanup Program
EPA Region 10 Superfund Branch
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
Federal Superfund Program
For information about the
Federal Superfund Program
(206) 553-6901
(800) 424-8802
(206) 438-7361
(206) 553-1987
(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 (c>) indicating the
current stage of cleanup.
Large and complex sites often are organized
into several cleanup stages. For example,
separate cleanup efforts may be required to
address the source of the contamination,
hazardous substances in the groundwater, and
surface water pollution, or to clean up differ-
ent areas of a large site. In such cases, the
chart portrays cleanup progress at the site's
most advanced stage, reflecting the status of
site activities rather than administrative ac-
complishments.
^ An arrow in the "Initial Response" cate-
gory indicates that an emergency
cleanup, immediate action, or initial ac-
tion has been completed or currently is
underway. Emergency or initial actions
are taken as an interim measure to pro-
vide immediate relief from exposure to
hazardous site conditions or to stabilize
a site to prevent further contamination.
^> A final arrow in the "Site Studies" cat-
egory indicates that an investigation to
determine the nature and extent of the
contamination at the site currently is on-
going or planned.
O A final arrow in the "Remedy Selection"
category means that the EPA has se-
lected the final cleanup strategy for the
site. At the few sites where the EPA has
determined that initial response actions
have eliminated site contamination, or
that any remaining contamination will
be naturally dispersed without further
cleanup activities, a "No Action" rem-
edy has been selected. In these cases,
the arrows are discontinued at the
"Remedy Selection" step and resume in
the "Construction Complete" category.
^> A final arrow at the "Remedial Design"
stage indicates that engineers currently
are designing the technical specifica-
tions for the selected cleanup remedies
and technologies.
^> A final arrow in the "Cleanup Ongoing"
column means that final cleanup actions
have been started at the site and cur-
rently are underway.
O A final arrow in the "Construction Com-
plete" category is used only when all
phases of the site cleanup plan have
been performed, and the EPA has deter-
mined that no additional construction
actions are required at the site. Some
sites in this category currently may be
undergoing long-term operation and
maintenance or monitoring to ensure
that the cleanup actions continue to pro-
tect human health and the environment.
/ A check in the "Deleted" category indi-
cates that the site cleanup has met all
human health and environmental goals
and that the EPA has deleted the site
from the NPL.
Further information on the activities and
progress at each site is given in the site "Fact
Sheets" published in this volume.
XIX
-------
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ALCOA (V
SMELTER)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD00904527
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Clark County
Vancouver
Other Names:
mlnjum Company of America -
Vancouver
Vanalco, Inc.
The Aluminum Co. of America (ALCOA) began operating a primary aluminum smelter in
1940 on a 300-acre site adjacent to the Columbia River in Vancouver. In 1986, the
Vancouver Aluminum Company of America (VANALCO) purchased the smelter portion of
the site. About 66,000 tons of waste potlinings containing cyanide, fluoride, and heavy metals
were piled on the ground from 1973 to 1980. ALCOA has been monitoring groundwater since
1979, and both ALCOA and the State have found cyanide and fluoride in wells around the
piles. One of the wells provides drinking water and process water for the smelter. An
estimated 50,000 people draw drinking water from public and private wells within 3 miles of
the site. Groundwater also is used to irrigate about 300 acres of cropland.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and soil are contaminated with cyanide and fluoride.
Additionally, the soil contains reclaimed alumina. Contaminated groundwater and
soil could pose a health risk to individuals through direct contact or accidental
ingestion. There is a potential for the Columbia River to be polluted by
contaminants present at the site.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In early 1992, the State selected a remedy to clean up the entire site
which includes: excavating and removing contaminated potlining piles and
reclaimed alumina for disposal at an approved hazardous waste landfill;
constructing a protective cover for the areas where wastes were removed; regrading the area;
installing a fence; and monitoring contaminated groundwater and the Columbia River
adjacent to the facility. The groundwater will continue to be monitored until contamination
levels meet established drinking water standards. The cleanup of the site is expected to be
completed by the end of 1992.
Site Facts: In March 1992, the Washington Department of Ecology signed a Consent
Decree with EPA to conduct site cleanup activities.
Environmental Progress
The EPA conducted an initial investigation and determined that no immediate actions were
necessary while cleanup activities are taking place.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Southwest Region, Records Center,
7272 Cleanwater Lane, Olympia, WA 98504
March 1992
ALCOA (VANCOUVER SMELTER)
-------
AMERICAN
CROSSARM &
CONDUIT CO.
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD057311094
REGION 10
Lewis County
Chehalis
Site Description
The American Crossarm & Conduit Company site is located on 16 acres of land in Chehalis.
The site consists of a wood treatment facility, a factory, a cooling shed, drying kilns, and an
impoundment for surface runoff and wastewater. Crossarm began operations in 1948,
primarily as a treatment facility for utility pole crossarms. Originally, the crossarms were
pressure-treated with creosote. Later, the process used pentachlorophenol (PCP). Beginning
in 1952, Crossarm deposited solid waste on the property just south of the factory area. In
1983, wood treatment activities ceased. During a flood in 1986, waters from the nearby
Chehalis River flowed onto the site and were contaminated with PCP and diesel fuel.
Residential and commercial neighborhoods to the north and the northeast were affected by
the contamination transported by the flood. A fire in 1987 left some of the kilns exposed.
After 1987, the site was operated as a salvage yard, storing cars and other machinery in the
old factory. The site now is unoccupied. Apartment buildings are located on part of the
property of the former wood treatment facility. Approximately 200 homes are located in
residential neighborhoods to the northeast and east of the facility. A softball field is adjacent
to the eastern boundary of the site. Approximately 500 feet away is Dillenbaugh Creek, which
empties into the Chehalis River less than a mile downstream from the site. A stormwater
runoff lagoon, contaminated by Crossarm activities, is a backwater associated with
Dillenbaugh Creek.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Threats and Contaminants
HAJ
The groundwater, soil, and sediments are contaminated with PCP and creosote.
Soil also contains dioxins. Accidental ingestion of or direct contact with the
contaminated groundwater and soil could pose a health threat. Some concern has
been expressed about the possibility that fish in Dillenbaugh Creek may be
affected by contaminants leaving the site.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a single long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The EPA began incinerating materials stored on site in
1988. Approximately 900 tons of material contaminated with PCP were
incinerated by early 1989, using a mobile incinerator. The EPA also fenced
portions of the site to restrict access, due to the safety hazard presented by the structures
and hazardous substances on site. Early in 1992, the EPA began further emergency actions at
the site. These actions include: temporarily relocating 426 bags of ash and 65 drums of
sludge, that resulted from the 1988 and 1989 incineration activities, until they can be properly
disposed of; installing a security fence around the relocation area; decontaminating and
scrapping drums, empty tanks, and piping; removing and disposing of asbestos-covered piping
and PCB-contaminated concrete to an approved facility; and demolishing the wood-treating
building and a concrete structure and relocating them to another portion of the site or
disposing of them at an approved facility.
Entire Site: In 1989, the EPA began an investigation at the site to evaluate
existing contamination and the extent of the problem. The investigation will
include a study of the soil on and off of the site, sediments in Dillenbaugh Creek,
surface water, and groundwater. The EPA expects to evaluate some of the private properties
affected by contamination as a result of the 1986 flood. Alternatives for cleanup of the site
will be evaluated once the extent of the contamination is clearly defined. The investigation is
scheduled for completion in late 1992.
Site Facts: In 1986, the State issued an order, requiring the company to stop discharging
wastewater to the sewer, investigate all tanks and sumps, and install secondary containment
around all tanks and sumps.
Environmental Progress
The EPA's incineration of 900 tons of contaminated material and fencing of the site have
reduced the potential of direct contact with contaminants at the American Crossarm site
while the investigation continues and final cleanup remedies are being planned.
The 1992 emergency actions will further reduce the risks to the community and the
environment while investigations are underway.
March 1992 4 AMERICAN CROSSARM & CONDUIT CO.
-------
Site Repository
Timberland Regional Library, Chehalis Branch, 76 Northeast Park Street,
Chehalis, WA 98532
AMERICAN CROSSARM & CONDUIT CO.
March 1992
-------
AMERICAN LAK
GARDENS
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980833065
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Pierce County
Tacoma
Other Names:
McChord AFB Area "D"
The American Lake Gardens site occupies approximately 1/2 square mile in a semi-rural
residential community in Tacoma and is surrounded by McChord Air Force Base and Fort
Lewis Military Reservation. In 1983, a resident complained to the EPA about family health
problems believed to have been caused by drinking contaminated water. The EPA and the
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department sampled nearby drinking water wells and found
high levels of metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). McChord Air Force Base is
investigating the contamination that resulted from Area D, which contains former landfills
now covered by an on-base golf course. American Lake Gardens is a residential area with a
population of 3,000. There are two schools near the site. Residences with private wells were
connected to an alternate water supply as part of an interim action. McChord Air Force Base
has two sites listed on the NPL.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
The shallow groundwater is contaminated with VOCs, including trichloroethylene
(TCE), and dichloroethylene. Contaminated shallow groundwater poses a threat to
individuals through direct contact or accidental ingestion. Base drinking water is
not a threat, as it is pumped from a deeper groundwater source. American Lake
has the potential to become polluted from the contaminants found on the site, but
presently shows no sign of contamination.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a single long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1985, the EPA drilled and sampled eight monitoring
wells in American Lake Gardens and sampled three monitoring wells constructed
by the Air Force on adjacent property. The laboratory results showed
contamination of the shallow groundwater wells to be coming from McChord Air Force Base.
The Air Force provided bottled water to the residents of American Lake Gardens affected by
the contamination of the wells. Later, all American Lake Gardens residences were connected
to the public water supplies at the Air Force's expense.
Entire Site: In 1991, the Air Force completed an investigation of the nature and
extent of contamination at the site. The Air Force selected a remedy that involves
pumping groundwater to keep the contamination from spreading, treating the
extracted groundwater by carbon adsorption, flushing treated water into deeper zones to push
contaminated water out, long-term monitoring, and controlling future use of groundwater
through deed restrictions. Connection to public water supplies will continue to be offered
until cleanup is complete.
Site Facts: McChord Air Force Base is participating in the Installation Restoration
Program, a specially funded program established by the Department of Defense (DOD) in
1978 to identify, investigate, and control the migration of hazardous contaminants at military
and other DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
Providing alternate water supplies to the residents of American Lake Gardens has reduced
the threat of exposure to contaminated groundwater while final remedies are being designed.
Site Repository
McChord Air Force Base Library, Building 765, 62 CSG/SS1, Tacoma, WA 98438
AMERICAN LAKE GARDENS
March 1992
-------
BANGOR NAVAL
SUBMARI
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WA51700272!
EPA REGION 10
Kitsap County
Siverdale
Other Names:
Sites C, D, & F
Slavy Bangor Submarine Base
J^avy - Naval Submarine Base -
Bangor
Site Description
The Bangor Naval Submarine Base site occupies 10 acres of a 7,000-acre facility in Bangor.
Approximately 42 areas of the active military facility may be contaminated. Site F, the
Wastewater Disposal Area for Demilitarization Operations, has contaminated the uppermost
aquifer. From 1944 to 1965, an area of the site, now known as the Burning Ground or Site
D, was used for ordnance burning and detonation. The site received "pinkwater" wastes
resulting from the demilling (steam cleaning and recovery of solid materials) of ordnance
containing trinitrotoluene (TNT) and cyclonite (RDX) from 1960 to 1971. Approximately
500,000 mines and 75,000 rockets were processed at the site. Other portions of the facility
included in this site involve the disposal of ordnance or ordnance wastewater. Groundwater
beneath the base is used for drinking water, irrigation, and industrial purposes. The facility,
located in a rural area, has approximately 700 people residing within 1 mile of the site. About
3,900 people living within 3 miles of the site depend on groundwater for their drinking water.
Another parcel at this facility, Bangor Ordnance Disposal, was placed on the NPL in 1987.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/14/89
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
ZJAJ
Groundwater, soils, surface water, and sediments contain TNT and RDX.
Groundwater also is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
plastics, and heavy metals. People may suffer adverse health effects if they
accidentally ingest or come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater,
soils, surface water, and sediments.
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in seven stages: interim actions and six long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleanup of the washout lagoon, the incinerator area, the dump residue area, the
acid pit, the burning ground, and Hood Canal Sediments.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: In 1990, the Navy selected an interim remedy to address
contamination at the Washout Lagoon described below. The action calls for
extraction and treatment of contaminated groundwater. Design of the interim
remedy is currently underway. Cleanup activities are expected to begin in late 1992.
Washout Lagoon: An investigation of the washout lagoon began in 1990 to
determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify cleanup
alternatives. The investigation is expected to be completed in 1993. This area, also
known as Site F, will be partly addressed by an interim action described above.
Incinerator Area: In 1990, the Navy began an investigation of the incinerator
area to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify cleanup
alternatives. The investigation is expected to be completed in 1992. This area also
Dump Residue Area: In 1990, the Navy began an investigation of the dump
residue area, also known as Site C, to determine the nature and extent of
contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives. Completion of the investigation
Acid Pit: In 1990, the Navy began an investigation of the acid pit to determine
the nature and extent of contamination at the pit and to identify potential cleanup
alternatives. Completion of this investigation is expected in 1992. The acid pit area
Burning Ground (Site D): In late 1990, the Navy began an investigation of the
Burning Ground area to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to
identify cleanup alternatives. The investigation is expected to be completed in
Hood Canal Sediments: In 1992, the Navy is expected to conduct an
investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination of a number of
on-base areas that contribute to sediment contamination in the adjacent water
body. The investigation, which is expected to be completed in 1993, will identify cleanup
alternatives. An action to excavate suspected buried drums is scheduled to begin in 1992.
BANGOR NAVAL SUBMARINE BASE 9 March 1992
-------
Site Facts: The Bangor Naval Submarine Base is participating in the Installation
Restoration Program, a specially funded program established by the Department of Defense
(DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate, and control the migration of hazardous contaminants
and other DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
The interim cleanup actions that will be taken at the washout lagoons will significantly reduce
the potential threat to human health and the environment while investigations leading to the
selection of final cleanup remedies are underway.
Site Repository
Kitsap Regional Library, Bangor Naval Submarine Base Library, Building 2500, Silverdale,
WA 98315
March 1992
10
BANGOR NAVAL SUBMARINE BASE
-------
BANGOR ORDNANCE
DISPOSAL
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WA7170027265
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Kitsap County
Bremerton
Other Names:
Site A
Bangor Ordnance Disposal
, (USN Sub Base)
S-tJavy Submarine Base - Bangor
The Bangor Ordnance Disposal site is a 6-acre hazardous waste site on the Bangor Naval
Submarine Base used by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team as a test range. The Bangor
Naval Submarine Base also includes two debris areas totaling 12 acres. Between 1965 and
1973, the U.S. Navy detonated and burned over 2 million pounds of explosives at the base.
Surface water and shallow groundwater were contaminated as a result of these activities. In
1983, the Navy moved to control the migration of potential chemical waste from the site by
diverting stormwater runoff from the burn site to an area between Vinland and Cattail Lake.
Wilkes Marsh covers approximately 4 acres and is about 500 feet from the site.
Approximately 3,900 people reside within 3 miles of the base and depend on groundwater for
drinking water. An agricultural area surrounds the facility. Another parcel at this facility was
added to the NPL in 1990.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 07/22/87
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater, soil, leachate, and surface water are contaminated with
trinitrotoluene (TNT) and cyclonite (RDX). Soil also is contaminated with lead.
Accidental ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater, soil, and
surface water could expose people on or near the site to pollutants. The base is 1/2
mile from Hood Canal, a sensitive marine environment.
11
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In late 1991, the Navy selected remedies to remove ordnance
compounds from the soil to clean up contaminated soil, leachate, and
groundwater at the site. Soil washing will be used. The leachate that results from
the soil washing will be treated by ultraviolet light/oxidation (UV/OX). Groundwater also will
be extracted and treated using UV/OX. Approximately 100 cubic yards of soil contaminated
with lead may require off-site disposal after the ordnance compounds are removed. The
design for the soil washing remedy is underway. Cleanup design for UV/OX treatment is
scheduled to begin in late 1992, pending the progress made at Site F of the Bangor Naval
Submarine Base site.
Site Facts: The Ordnance Disposal site, a sub-area of the Bangor Naval Submarine Base, is
participating in the Installation Restoration Program, a specially funded program established
by the Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate, and control the
migration of hazardous contaminants at military and DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
Initial investigations determined that the Bangor Ordnance Disposal site does not pose an
immediate threat to local residents or the environment while final cleanup designs are
underway.
Site Repository
Kitsap Regional Library, Central Library, 1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA 98310
March 1992 12 BANGOR ORDNANCE DISPOSAL
-------
BONNEVILLE POWER
ADMINISTRATJ
ROSS COI
(USDOE)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA1891406349
Site Description —
EPA REGION 10
Clark County
North of Vancouver
Other Names:
JSDOE-BPA Ross Substation
Ross Substation
The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) has occupied this 200-acre site north of
Vancouver since 1939. The facility became part of the Department of Energy (DOE) when
the department was established. The Ross Complex serves as the control center for the
generation and transmission of electricity throughout the Pacific Northwest. The site contains
a number of storage and disposal areas including the DOB-1 Drainfield, where laboratory
wastes were deposited; the Cold Creek Fill Area, where soil contaminated with oil,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and heavy metals was disposed of; and the Fog Chamber
Disposal Area, where capacitors containing PCBs were buried in trenches. In 1987 and 1988,
the BPA sampled an on-site well and found volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Approximately 105,000 people in Vancouver obtain drinking water from public wells within 3
miles of the site. Cold Creek is about 450 feet downgradient of the complex and is fed by
shallow groundwater flowing under the site. Vancouver Lake, located 1 1/2 miles away, is
used for fishing and other recreational activities.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/14/89
Final Date: 11/21/89
Threats and Contaminants
[ZGJ
Groundwater contains VOCs including trichloroethane and chloroform. Soil is
contaminated with oil, PCBs, pentachlorophenol (PCP), and mercury. People who
ingest or come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater or soil may be
at risk. Contaminants leaching from the site could flow into Cold Creek, harming
wildlife in or around the water.
13
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the
surface soils and the cleanup of groundwater, surface water, and sub-surface soils.,
Response Action Status
Surface Soils: An investigation to determine the nature and extent of
contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives began in 1990. The investigation
is expected to be completed in late 1992.
Groundwater, Surface Water, and Sub-surface Soils: An investigation to
determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify cleanup
alternatives began in 1990. The investigation is expected to be completed in late
1993.
Site Facts: The EPA, the State, and Bonneville Power have signed an Interagency
Agreement to govern site cleanup.
Environmental Progress
The EPA determined that the Bonneville Power Administration Ross Complex (USDOE) site
does not pose an immediate threat to local residents or the environment while studies leading
to selection of the cleanup remedies at the site are being conducted.
Site Repository
Fort Vancouver Regional Public Library System, Vancouver Community Library, 1007 East
Mill Plain Boulevard, Vancouver, WA 98663
BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
March 1992 14 ROSS COMPLEX (USDOE)
-------
CENTRALIA
MUNICIPA
LANDFILL
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980836662
-.—iEPA REGION 10
Lewis County
Centralia
Other Names:
Lewis County Dump
bentralia Sanitary Landfill
Site Description
The Centralia Municipal Landfill is an active landfill covering 50 acres of an 80-acre parcel of
land in Centralia. The landfill began operations in 1958, using a trenching method where
trenches were excavated, filled with wastes, and covered. Presently, the landfill uses the lift
method, where wastes are placed in layers and covered daily with clean fill. All fill areas at
the landfill are unlined. A system of leachate collection trenches were installed to intercept
the leachate generated by the landfill. The collected leachate is pumped to the municipal
wastewater treatment plant in Centralia. In some areas, however, leachate containing heavy
metals can drain directly to Salzer Creek, located south of the site. Historically, the landfill
accepted municipal wastes and some industrial wastes including clarifier sludge, boiler ash,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)-contaminated soil, paint shop wastes, empty pesticide
containers, electric burn wastes, and sulfur wastes. Groundwater at the site reaches the
surface during the rainy season. The upper and lower aquifers are hydraulically connected,
allowing water to move between them. Over 12,000 people living within 3 miles of the landfill
obtain drinking water from the lower aquifer. The city of Centralia's nearest municipal well is
located 1 1/2 miles north of the landfill. The nearest private well is about 700 feet west of the
site. Salzer Creek is a tributary to the Chelalis River and water from Salzer Creek and the
Chehalis River is used for irrigation. The City plans to close the landfill in 1992.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and municipal actions.
Threats and Contaminants
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
213
Groundwater contains heavy metals such as manganese, sodium, and lead. Soil and
sediments are contaminated with arsenic. Leachate emanating from the landfill
contains heavy metals. People who accidentally ingest or come into direct contact
with contaminated groundwater, sediments, soil, or leachate may be at risk.
Leachate drains from the landfill into Salzer Creek, a spawning area, nursery, and
migration route for Coho Salmon. Salzer Creek empties into the Chehalis River,
which is a habitat for Chinook, Coho, and Chum Salmon, and Steelhead Trout.
Contaminants in the creek and river pose a potential threat to nearby wildlife.
15
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1991, the potentially responsible parties installed a
security fence, constructed a temporary protective cover over the inactive areas of
the landfill, constructed a temporary protective cover over the inactive areas of
the landfill, constructed a temporary gas control system, performed erosion control measures,
and improved the leachate collection system.
Entire Site: The potentially responsible parties and the State are negotiating a
Consent Decree requiring the potentially responsible parties to conduct
investigations to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify
cleanup alternatives at the site.
Site Facts: In 1991, a Consent Decree was signed by the potentially responsible parties
requiring them to conduct immediate actions at the site.
Environmental Progress
The 1991 immediate actions significantly reduced the potential threat to human health and
the environment while studies leading to selected of final cleanup remedies are underway.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Southwest Region, Records Center, 7272 Cleanwater
Lane, Olympia, WA 98504
March 1992 16 CENTRALIA MUNICIPAL LANDFILL
-------
COLBERT
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980514541
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
miles northwest of Colbert
Other Names:
Colbert Dump
Site Description
The Colbert Landfill site covers 40 acres and is located 2 miles northwest of Colbert. From
1968 through 1986, the landfill received municipal and commercial wastes. Between 1975 and
1980, a local electronics manufacturing company, Key Tronic Corporation, disposed of spent
organic solvents at the landfill. These wastes typically were brought to the landfill in drums
and were poured down the sides of open trenches containing soil and ordinary municipal
refuse. During the same period, Fairchild Air Force Base disposed of various solvent wastes
at the site. In 1980, nearby residents became concerned over the disposal practices. Several
private drinking wells were sampled and were found to contain solvents. The landfill was
closed in 1986. The site is located in a semi-rural area; approximately 1,500 people live within
3 miles of the site. Nearby residents operate small crop and livestock farms. The Little
Spokane River is about 1/2 mile away from the site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including methylene
chloride and trichloroethane. Methylene chloride also is found in the soil.
Accidental ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater and soil
may pose a potential health threat.
17
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a single long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1984, Spokane County and Key Tronic began supplying
bottled water to residents affected by polluted groundwater. In 1985, the EPA
extended the public water supply main to 135 affected residences.
Entire Site: In 1987, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the landfill, which
includes: installing and operating interception wells to prevent the contaminants
from spreading; removing the contaminated materials that have entered the
aquifers and are contributing to the contaminant plume and installing and operating
extraction wells in the area where the plumes originate; reducing the toxicity, mobility, and
volume of contaminants by treating all extracted groundwater from both the interception and
extraction wells; and providing an alternate water supply system to any residents deprived of
their domestic supply due to the contamination or to the construction of interception or
extraction wells. Spokane County, under supervision by the State and the EPA, has drilled
wells for monitoring the groundwater. The pilot extraction wells and treatment plant were
tested in early 1991. Construction of the final system is expected to be finished in late 1993.
Start up and adjustment of the groundwater extraction and treatment system could take up to
a year to perform.
Site Facts: In 1981, the EPA entered into a Cooperative Agreement with Spokane County
to investigate the site. The EPA also entered into a Cooperative Agreement with the State to
investigate the site and to develop cleanup alternatives in 1985.
Environmental Progress
The immediate actions of providing bottled water and extending the municipal water supply
system to affected residents have reduced the threat to the public from the Colbert Landfill
site while the cleanup is underway. A drinking water well monitoring program ensures the
continued safety of drinking water for residents.
Site Repository
Spokane County Library, North Spokane Branch Library, 44 East Hawthorne Road, Spokane,
WA 99218
March 1992
18
COLBERT LANDFILL
-------
BAY NEAR
TIDE FLATS
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980726368
Site Description
The Commencement Bay, Near Shore/Tide Flats site covers 12 square miles in Tacoma. The
site includes more than 300 active businesses and nearly 500 identified point and nonpoint
sources that may affect marine sediments. The Near Shore area is defined as the point along
the Ruston Way Shoreline from the Mouth of City Waterway to Point Defiance. The Tide
Flats area includes the Hylebos, Blair, Wheeler-Osgood, Sitcum, Milwaukee, St. Paul, Middle,
and City waterways, plus the Puyallup River upstream to the Interstate 5 Highway Bridge.
Industrial development of the Commencement Bay area began in the late 1800s. Dredge and
fill activities in the Tide Flats area began in the 1920s to open navigable waterways where
numerous industrial and commercial operations still are located. These operations include
pulp and lumber mills, shipbuilding, shipping, chlorine and chemical production, concrete
production, aluminum and copper smelting, oil refineries, and other chemical manufacturers.
Hazardous substances and waste material were released into the terrestrial, freshwater,
groundwater, and marine environments. From 1890 until 1986, the American Smelting and
Refining Company, Inc. (ASARCO) operated a smelter on the shore of Commencement Bay.
Originally it operated as a lead smelter, but was converted to a copper smelter by 1911. The
srnelter specialized in processing ores with high arsenic concentrations and recovered arsenic
trioxide and metallic arsenic as products for sale. Copper smelting and arsenic operations
ceased in 1985 and 1986, respectively, for economic reasons. The Tacoma Tar Pits area of
the site lies between the Puyallup River, the City of Tacoma, and the Wheeler-Osgood
Waterway. These bodies of water are not used as a water supply, but support extensive fish
and shellfish populations. In 1924, a coal gasification plant began operations, and waste
materials from the manufacturing process were disposed of on site. The plant discontinued
operations in 1956. From 1965 to 1966, the plant was dismantled and demolished. Most of
the metal structures were removed from the site; however, all demolition debris and below-
grade structures were left in place, including tanks and pipelines containing tars. In 1967, a
metal recycling company began operating at the site. Recycling of automobile batteries
contaminated the soil with acid, heavy metals, lead, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
Commencement Bay supports important fishery resources and recreational fishing. According
to a 1981 survey by the local health department, approximately 4,000 people shorefish and
boatfish in the bay, exposing an estimated 15,000 people to pollutants through food chain
contamination. The City of Tacoma has a population of 162,100 people. Another portion of
Commencement Bay, the South Tacoma Channel, also is on the NPL.
19 March 1992
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Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
Threats and Contaminants
Final Date: 09/08/83
m
'«
Groundwater, sediments, and soils are contaminated with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs), PCBs, and heavy
metals. Fish in Commencement Bay contain VOCs, PCBs, and heavy rnetals
including arsenic, lead, and mercury. People who come in direct contact with or
ingest contaminated groundwater, sediments, or soil may be at risk. Contaminants
have bioaccumulated in bay fish and may pose a health threat to those who eat
them. The County has advised people not to eat bottom fish and shellfish from
Commencement Bay.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in eight stages: immediate actions and seven long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the CBNT sediments, the ASARCO Smelter, the Tacoma Tar
Pits, Ruston Off-Property (Residential), Source Control, the ASARCO Sediments, and the
ASARCO Buildings and Structures.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1986, ASARCO suspended operations, and, under EPA
monitoring, demolished and cleaned some of the structures used for copper
smelting, arsenic trioxide and metallic arsenic production, and arsenic emissions
control. In 1989, under EPA monitoring, ASARCO began cleaning 11 publicly accessible
properties starting with Ruston Park, Ruston School yard, and a privately owned vacant lot.
Soil is being excavated, and the excavated areas are being filled with clean soil and reseeded.
Ruston Park was covered with sod. The contaminated soil removed from the properties is
being stored on the smelter property until a final cleanup plan is selected for the smelter site.
The cleanup has been completed in 10 of the 11 publicly accessible properties. In 1990 and
1991, ASARCO cleaned up seven additional properties affected by contamination at the site.
The final property is expected to be cleaned up in 1993. A removal of 2600 tons of materials
was conducted at the Inner Hybelos property by the Port of Tacoma in 1991 and 1992 under
a Unilateral Order, as part of the Payallup Land Claims Settlement Act.
COMMENCEMENT BAY,
March 1992 20 NEAR SHORES-IDE FLATS
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CENT Sediments: In 1989, the EPA selected remedies to clean up 1,162,000
cubic yards of contaminated marine sediments in eight different problem areas.
Problem areas in the following waterways will be addressed: St. Paul, Sitcum,
Mouth of Hylevos, Head of Hylebos, Middle, Wheeler-Osgood, Mouth of Thea Foss
(formerly City Waterway), and Head of Thea Foss. The St. Paul waterway cleanup was
completed in 1991. The cleanup included controlling of the sources of pollution and capping
contaminated sediments. The St. Paul Waterway agreement was the first complete sediment
cleanup in the U.S. coastal waters under Federal Super fund law. In addition, the agreement
combined the Superfund cleanup with a settlement for initiation of the natural resource
damage assessment and an enhancement project to restore natural resources. The Port of
Tacoma is conducting cleanup at the Sitcum Waterway. Investigations concerning the full
nature and extent of contamination are underway. In all waterways, marginally contaminated
sediments will be left alone, because they are expected to recover naturally over a 10-year
period. The sediments will be monitored, however, to confirm that natural cleanup is
occurring. The seriously contaminated sediments will be confined with a substantial physical
barrier to isolate the contaminated sediments and protect aquatic animals. The contaminated
area may be covered with clean sediments, or contaminated sediments may be moved and
disposed of or confined elsewhere within the site. Recreational fishing in the waterways will
be restricted until the cleanup is completed. The source discharges and sediments will be
monitored throughout the cleanup phase of the project. The EPA will oversee sediment
cleanup operations. Sediment cleanup in each of the problem areas is being phased over the
next 10 years according to the success of the source control remedies. All cleanup remedies
are expected to be underway by 1997.
ASARCO Smelter: In 1986, under EPA monitoring, ASARCO began an
investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify
cleanup alternatives at the smelter. The investigation is expected to be completed
in 1993.
Tacoma Tar Pits: In 1987, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the Tacoma
Tar Pits. The cleanup, to be approached in two phases, includes excavating all
contaminated soils and stabilizing them with a polymer/cement mixture; covering
the stabilized soil with asphalt; channeling and managing the surface waters; monitoring the
groundwater; and removing and treating pond water. The potentially responsible parties are
designing the technical specifications, under EPA monitoring, for cleanup of the tar pits.
Treatability studies are underway. The design phase is expected to be completed in 1992, at
which time the cleanup will begin. Site preparation also will begin in mid 1992.
Ruston Off-Property (Residential): The EPA is investigating the extent of
arsenic contamination in the Ruston/North Tacoma communities. The study area
includes 950 acres and approximately 500 residences. The results of investigations
in these areas have been presented to the community. The EPA is expected to evaluate
community comments and select a cleanup remedy by late 1993. Soil sampling was completed
in 1990.
COMMENCEMENT BAY,
NEAR SHORE/TIDE FLATS 21 March 1992
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Source Control: Source control cleanup applies to all waterways listed under
CENT Sediments. The State is overseeing the technological design of the source
control remedies. All source control activities have been completed in the St. Paul
Waterway. Studies are currently underway in the Hylebos, Wheeler-Osgood, and Thea Foss
Waterways. All source control cleanup is expected to be completed in 1995.
ASARCO Sediments: A supplemental study is being developed to examine
further contaminated marine sediments off shore from the ASARCO smelter.
Cleanup of these sediments is being handled separately from other sediments,
because they are relatively unique in terms of grain size, depth, and steepness of slope. A
decision on the remedy is expected in 1993.
ASARCO Buildings and Structures: In 1990, a remedy was selected to address
on-site buildings and structures related to ASARCO operations. These buildings
and structures will be demolished. Interim stabilization and surface water control
will be implemented as well. The design of the remedy is scheduled to begin in 1992.
Site Facts: In 1989, the EPA and ASARCO signed a Consent Order, requiring ASARCO to
investigate and clean up its smelter. In 1991, an Administrative Order was signed between the
EPA and the Port of Tacoma requiring the latter to conduct cleanup of the Sitcum
Waterway. In 1992, a Consent Decree was signed between the EPA and ASARCO, requiring
the Company to conduct cleanup of the ASARCO Demolition Structures. In 1991, the EPA
awarded Citizens for a Healthy Bay a $50,000 grant to hire independent technical advisors to
educate and advise the community.
Environmental Progress
Demolishing of parts the ASARCO Smelter and cleaning publicly accessible areas of Ruston
have reduced the threat of the public coming in direct contact with contaminants at the
Commencement Bay, Near Shore/Tide Flats site while investigations and final cleanup
activities continue.
Site Repository
Tacoma Public Library, 1102 Tacoma Avenue South, Tacoma, WA 98402
COMMENCEMENT BAY,
March 1992 22 NEAR SHORE/TIDE FLATS
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COMMENCEMEN
BAY, SOUTr
CHANNEL
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980726301
EPA REGION 10
Pierce County
Tacoma
Other Names:
Well 12-A
American Surplus Sales
South Tacoma Swamp
Tacoma City Landfill
Union Pacific Railroad Tunnel
Time Oil
Site Description
The Commencement Bay, South Tacoma Channel site covers 2 1/2 square miles in Tacoma.
The site includes three areas: South Tacoma Field, the Tacoma Municipal Landfill, and wells
supplying drinking water to the City of Tacoma. South Tacoma Field covers about 300 acres
of industrial, commercial, residential, and vacant land. Parts of the area were used for railcar
construction and repair, salvage operations, and the disposal of industrial and construction
debris. The Tacoma Landfill covers 190 acres and is operated by the City of Tacoma. In 1960,
the landfill began accepting municipal, industrial, construction, demolition, and bulk wastes.
About 4 million tons of refuse have been deposited at the landfill, including wastes received
in the 1960s and 1970s, that have since been designated as hazardous substances. The landfill
is surrounded by residential development and open land, with some commercial and industrial
development. Well 12A is one of 13 wells used by the City of Tacoma to meet peak summer
and emergency water demands. The well was closed by the City when it was found to be
contaminated. Investigations by the EPA found the source of contamination to be centered
on properties owned by the Burlington Northern Railroad and the Time Oil Company. Waste
oil and solvent reclamation processes were operated on the property owned by Time Oil
Company. An aquifer beneath the site provides drinking water to the town of Fircrest and
the city of Tacoma. Approximately 24,000 people live within 1 mile of South Tacoma Field.
Another portion of Commencement Bay, the Near Shore/Tide Flats site, also is on the NPL.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal, municipal, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/01/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
23
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Landfill gas and sediments contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
methylene chloride and toluene. Groundwater and surface water are contaminated
with VOCs and heavy metals. Soil is contaminated with VOCs, heavy metals, and
carcinogenic PAHs. Sewers and leachate also contain VOCs. People who ingest or
come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater, surface water, soil, or
sediments may be at risk. Inhalation of gas from the landfill may pose a health
threat. Groundwater flows to the southwest toward Leach Creek, which lies about
1/4 mile from the landfill. Consequently, wetlands downstream of the landfill could
receive contaminants from the surface water and groundwater.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in four stages: immediate actions and three long-term remedial
phases focusing on the cleanup of Well 12A and Time Oil, the South Tacoma Field, and
Tacoma Landfill.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1983, the EPA began pumping and treating the water in
Well 12A by air stripping. In 1988, a carbon adsorption groundwater treatment
system was installed near the Time Oil property to control the source of
contamination. Pumping the well has stopped the contaminant movement and is cleaning the
aquifer. In 1990, Burlington Northern, under EPA monitoring, dismantled the former brass
foundry and removed underground storage tanks and stained soil around the tanks in the
South Tacoma Field area. Under an Administrative Order, Amsted, which owns 6 acres on
the South Tacoma Field sub-site, is installing additional monitoring wells, evaluating
hydrocarbons found floating in groundwater monitoring wells, sampling groundwater for
dissolved constituents, and evaluating the feasibility of removing the hydrocarbons from the
subsurface. This work is scheduled for completion in mid-1992.
COMMENCEMENT BAY,
March 1992 24 SOUTH TACOMA CHANNEL
-------
Well 12A and Time Oil: In 1985, the EPA selected the following remedy to
clean up Well 12A: (1) continuing to operate the air stripper installed as an
immediate action; (2) extracting and treating the groundwater at the source to
remove the volatile organics; (3) drilling and sampling additional soil test borings during the
technical design phase; (4) removing a length of railroad track adjacent to the Time Oil
property and excavating contaminated soils and filter coke under the railroad spur;
(5) performing additional undercutting to remove concentrated contaminants; (6) installing
drain field piping in the excavated areas and covering it with a permeable material; (7) paving
or placing a soil cover on the portions of the unpaved Time Oil parking lot; (8) transporting
and disposing of all excavated contaminated soil in a federally approved landfill;
(9) prohibiting the use of groundwater; and (10) monitoring the groundwater, and after two
years of operation, evaluating the effectiveness of the cleanup. In 1986, under EPA oversight,
Burlington Northern excavated approximately 1,000 cubic yards of soil and disposed of them
in a federally approved facility. In 1987, the remedy was expanded to include carbon
adsorption treatment for the groundwater and vapor extraction for the soil. In 1988, the EPA
installed a carbon filtration system to remove the solvents from the aquifer at the source of
the contamination. The EPA currently is installing the vacuum extraction system to clean the
remaining contaminated soils. Construction of the vacuum extraction system is expected to be
completed in late 1992. The system is scheduled to operate for up to 10 years.
South Tacoma Field: Burlington Northern had begun investigations at the
South Tacoma Field when other potentially responsible parties were identified.
Under a 1990 Administrative Order, four additional potentially responsible parties
will complete the investigation. Surface water and sediment from a wetland on site are being
evaluated and chemicals of concern for ecological risk assessment are being identified. The
site study is expected to be completed in 1993.
Tacoma Landfill: A landfill gas extraction and treatment system has been in
operation since 1987, and is currently being upgraded. Construction of an
impermeable landfill cap over the refuse area was completed in the spring of 1992.
Construction has begun on a groundwater extraction and treatment system consisting of 28
extraction wells and two to three air stripping towers to remove VOCs. The groundwater
extraction system is expected to be completed in 1992.
Site Facts: In 1987, the EPA and Burlington Northern Railroad signed an Administrative
Order on Consent, under which the railroad agreed to investigate and clean up their portion
of the South Tacoma Field area. In 1990, the EPA and four additional potentially responsible
parties signed an Administrative Order on Consent, under which the parties will complete the
investigations at the South Tacoma Field. In May of 1991, EPA and the Washington
Department of Ecology signed a Consent Decree with the City of Tacoma to conduct
cleanup activities at the Tacoma Landfill area.
COMMENCEMENT BAY,
SOUTH TACOMA CHANNEL 25 March 1992
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Environmental Progress
Extracting and treating the groundwater, excavating contaminated soil, removing underground
storage tanks and partially capping the landfill have reduced the potential of exposure to
contaminants from the Commencement Bay, South Tacoma Channel while investigations and
cleanup at the site continue.
Site Repository
Tacoma Public Library, 1102 Tacoma Avenue South, Tacoma, WA 98402
March 1992
26
COMMENCEMENT BAY,
SOUTH TACOMA CHANNEL
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FAIRCHILD
FORCE BA
(4 WASTE A
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA9571924647
Site Description —
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
12 miles west of Spokane
The Fairchild Air Force Base occupies approximately 4,300 acres 12 miles west of Spokane.
The base opened in 1942 as the Spokane Army Air Depot. In 1950, the name was changed to
Fairchild Air Force Base. Its primary mission is to maintain and repair aircraft such as
bombers and tankers. Initially, there were four waste areas of concern covering 85 acres,
including: the Building 1034 french drain and dry well system, two landfills, and the industrial
waste lagoons. However, during investigations, additional areas were found, including a fire
training area and multiple spill areas. During past base activities, the equivalent of over 4,000
drums of carbon tetrachloride and other solvents, paint wastes, plating sludges containing
cadmium and lead, and related industrial wastes were disposed of in the four areas.
Groundwater sampling in 1986 and 1987 detected elevated levels of contamination. A well
within base boundaries serves as a standby water supply for the base's 5,200 employees.
Approximately 400 private wells serving about 20,000 people are within 3 miles of the facility.
West Medical Lake, Medical Lake, and Silver Lake are within 3 miles downstream of
Fairchild AFB. These lakes support wildlife and are used for recreational activities.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/13/89
Threats and Contaminants
ZEJ
Groundwater, soil, and sediments are contaminated with volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) including trichloroethylene (TCE) and semi-volatile and
inorganic compounds. People who ingest or come into direct contact with
contaminated groundwater may suffer adverse health effects. The sand and gravel
beneath the site facilitate the movement of contaminants into the groundwater, as
well as the movement of contaminated groundwater. If contaminants leach from
the base into the nearby lakes, wildlife in or around the water may be harmed.
27
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 Craig Road landfill; old base landfill, the flightline area,
wastewater lagoons, fire training pit, and french drain system and the remaining areas.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1989, the Air Force provided bottled water to nearby
trailer park residents when their water supply was found to be contaminated. The
residences later were connected to the base's water supply. The Air Force also
connected nearby Vietzke Village to the base's water supply in 1990. In 1992, the Air Force
began removing contaminated sediments from the french drain system. The Air Force also
removed all contaminated soils from the fuel oil tanks located at Wherry Housing and Deep
Creek Steam Generating Plant.
Craig Road Landfill: The Air Force is conducting an investigation to determine
the nature and extent of contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives at the
Craig Road Landfill. In 1992, a wastewater infiltration pond near the Craig Road
Landfill is scheduled to be closed. Once the pond is closed, the Air Force is scheduled to
install a groundwater extraction and treatment system. Investigations are expected to be
completed in 1993.
Old Base Landfill, Flightline Area, Wastewater Lagoons, Fire Training
Pit, and French Drain System: The Air Force is conducting separate
investigations of these areas to determine the nature and extent of contamination
and to identify cleanup alternatives in these areas. These investigations are collectively
scheduled to be completed in early 1993.
Remaining Areas: The Air Force is conducting 17 additional investigations on
base. These include the jet engine cell, POL Bulk storage area, Area C
pumphouse, aircraft crash site, heating oil tank area in Wherry Housing, fuel oil
storage tanks, and fuel truck maintenance area. Based on the results of these investigations,
expected in mid-1995, appropriate cleanup measures will be recommended for all remaining
areas of the site at that time.
Site Facts: Fairchild Air Force Base is participating in the Installation Restoration Program,
a specially funded program established by the Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to
identify, investigate, and control the migration of hazardous contaminants at military and
other DOD facilities.
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE
March 1992 28 (4 WASTE AREAS)
-------
Environmental Progress
The provision of an alternate water supply to the residents of a trailer park and a neighboring
village and the 1992 removal actions have reduced the threat of public exposure to
contaminants while investigations at Fairchild Air Force Base continue and cleanup actions
are planned.
Site Repository
Spokane Public Library, Comstock Library Building, 906 West Main Street,
Spokane, WA 99201
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE
(4 WASTE AREAS)
29
March 1992
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FMC CORP.
(YAKIMA P
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD00064357
EPA REGION 10
Yakima County
Yakima
Other Names:
FMC - Yakima
FMC - Agricultural Chemical Division
Site Description
The FMC Corp. (Yakima Pit) site, covering about 4 acres in Yakima, operated as a pesticide
formulation facility from 1951 until 1986. From 1952 to 1969, FMC disposed of agricultural
pesticides in a "poison pit" on site. Some of the pesticides that may have been disposed of in
the pit include DDT, diazinon, and dieldrin. Access to the pit area is restricted by a 6-foot
chain link fence. There are about 10,000 people living within a mile of the site, with the
nearest residence located about 200 yards from the facility. Area groundwater is used for
drinking water, industrial purposes, crop irrigation, and livestock watering.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed by
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soil are contaminated with various pesticides, including DDT
derivatives. Potential health threats include direct contact with or ingestion of
contaminated groundwater or soil.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
30
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1988, FMC, under EPA monitoring, began excavating
and removing the contaminated soil from the former disposal pit. Excavation of
the pit was stopped at one point because of the high level of groundwater and
concern over causing further groundwater contamination. In 1989, while the water was at a
seasonal low, the remaining contaminated soil was excavated. Approximately 335 tons of
contaminated soil were disposed of in a federally approved facility.
Entire Site: FMC, under EPA oversight, completed a study of the site in 1990.
The EPA selected a remedy that includes: additional sampling to determine the
extent of contamination; incineration of excavated soils on site; removal and
disposal of other contaminated materials; and disposal of incinerated soils on site, if they
meet contamination reduction levels, or off site, if they do not meet these levels. The cleanup
is being approached in two phases. Phase One involves the excavation of contaminated
materials. Phase Two involves the incineration of contaminated materials. The cleanup design
for Phase One was completed in mid-1992 and cleanup is underway. The design of Phase
Two cleanup activities is underway and is expected to be completed in 1992. All cleanup
actions are expected to be completed by early to mid-1993.
Site Facts: In 1987, FMC signed an order with the EPA requiring the company to conduct
an investigation of the site. In 1988, the EPA issued a second order to FMC, requiring
excavation of contaminated materials from the pit.
Environmental Progress
The excavation and removal of 335 tons of contaminated soil have reduced the threat of
exposure to pesticides while final cleanup actions at the FMC Corp. (Yakima Pit) site are
being designed.
Site Repository
Yakima Regional Library, 102 North 3rd Street, Yakima, WA 98901
FMC CORP. (YAKIMA PIT)
31
March 1992
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FORT LEWIS
(LANDFILL
WASHINGTON
EPAID#WA921405
EPA REGION 10
Pierce County
Tillicum
Other Names:
J.S. Army 9th Infantry - Fort Lewis
U.S. Army - Fort Lewis
Fort Lewis
Site Description
The 86,000-acre Fort Lewis Army facility is located near Tacoma on the southeastern shore
of Puget Sound and has been an Army facility since 1917. Industrial operations include
maintenance of aircraft and vehicles, repair and refurbishing of weapons, and neutralization
of caustic paint-stripping waste and battery acids. Prior to the mid-1970s, wastes were
disposed of in on-site landfills covering approximately 225 acres. The 104-acre Landfill No. 5
has been in operation since 1967. The waste disposal history of this site is largely unknown,
although the majority of disposed materials has been municipal waste from Fort Lewis,
McChord Air Force Base, and the city of Dupont. The landfill stopped accepting wastes in
1990. Access to the site is restricted. Approximately 46,700 people live on the post. The
closest residence to the site is located about 2 miles away. Municipal drinking water wells are
located within 1 1/2 miles of the site. Another hazardous waste unit at the Fort Lewis Army
facility, the Logistics Center, also is on the NPL.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 07/22/87
Threats and Contaminants
Preliminary investigations in 1987 indicated that elevated levels of heavy metals
and organic compounds had contaminated groundwater. Potential human health
threats include direct contact with or ingestion of contaminated groundwater.
Groundwater flows north-northwest toward Puget Sound.
32
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a single long-term remedial phase
focusing on the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: The State installed a composite cover in 1990 to prevent
rainwater from leaching contaminants into the groundwater.
Entire Site: The U.S. Army conducted a study to determine the nature and
extent of contamination resulting from the landfill. The study concluded that the
landfill does not pose a substantial threat to human health or the environment. A
final cleanup decision is expected to be reached in 1992.
Site Facts: Fort Lewis is participating in the Installation Restoration Program, a specially
funded program established by the Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify,
investigate, and control the migration of hazardous contaminants at military and other DOD
facilities.
Environmental Progress
Capping the landfill has reduced the threat of public exposure to contaminants at the Fort
Lewis (Landfill No. 5) site while the selection of final cleanup remedies is underway.
Site Repository
Pierce County Library, Lakewood Branch, 6300 Wildaire Road Southwest,
Tacoma, WA 98499
FORT LEWIS (LANDFILL NO. 5) 33 March 1992
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FORT LEWIS
LOGISTICS
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA7210090067
FA REGION 10
Pierce County
Tillicum
Other Names:
S. Army - Fort Lewis
Logistic Center
Site Description
The 86,000-acre Fort Lewis Army facility is located near Tacoma on the southeastern shore
of Puget Sound and has been an Army facility since 1917. Industrial operations include
maintenance of aircraft and vehicles, repair and refurbishing of weapons, and neutralization
of caustic paint stripping waste and battery acids. The 650-acre Logistics Center is primarily
an industrial facility, with some limited commercial use. Groundwater beneath the site is
contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are migrating toward the
American Lake Gardens housing area and the City of Tillicum. The contamination zone is
about 10,000 feet long and 2,500 feet wide, and extends 80 feet into the ground.
Approximately 46,700 people live on the post. The closest residence to the site is about 2
miles away. Another hazardous waste unit at the Fort Lewis Army facility, the Landfill No. 5
site, also is on the NPL.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/14/89
Final Date: 11/21/89
Threats and Contaminants
VOCs including trichloroethylene (TCE) and dichloroethylene have contaminated
soil and shallow groundwater beneath the Logistics Center. TCE also has been
detected in the deeper Salmon Springs aquifer and in Lynn Lake. Potential health
risks include accidental ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated
groundwater, soil, or surface water.
34
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleanup of the groundwater and cleanup of Landfill #4.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: During the site investigation, the Army provided alternate water
to residents of a nearby neighborhood.
Groundwater: The Army completed an investigation into contamination of most
areas of the site in 1990. Based on the results of the investigation a cleanup
remedy was chosen for groundwater, which includes extracting contaminated
groundwater, treating it with air strippers, and reinjecting the treated groundwater into the
aquifer. The groundwater cleanup remedy is being implemented in two phases. Phase One is
the construction of a groundwater extraction well field. Phase Two involves the construction
of a groundwater treatment plant. The design for Phase One was completed in late 1991;
construction is expected to begin mid-1992. The design for Phase Two of groundwater
cleanup is expected to be completed early in 1993; construction is expected to begin early in
1994. Contamination levels in the lake are expected to decline as groundwater is cleaned up.
Landfill #4: The U.S. Army is conducting an investigation at Landfill #4 to
determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identity cleanup
alternatives. The study is scheduled for completion in late 1993.
Site Facts: Fort Lewis is participating in the Installation Restoration Program, established by
the Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate, and control the migration
of hazardous contaminants at military and other DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
The provision of an alternate water supply to nearby residents has reduced the potential for
exposure to contamination while further investigations and cleanup activities are underway at
the Fort Lewis Logistics Center.
Site Repository
Pierce County Library, Lakewood Branch, 6300 Wildaire Road, Southwest,
Tacoma, WA 98499
FORT LEWIS LOGISTICS CENTER 35 March 1992
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FRONTIER HA
CHROME, I
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WAD053614988
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Clark County
Vancouver
The 1 1/4-acre Frontier Hard Chrome, Inc. site is a former chrome-plating facility located in
a light-industrial and manufacturing area of Vancouver. Beginning in 1955, the site was
occupied primarily by two companies engaged in the chrome-plating business. Presently, the
facility is being used as a storage and staging area for a neighboring business. From 1970 to
1976, wastewater from the facility's chrome-plating operation was discharged into the sanitary
sewer system. In 1976, the City of Vancouver requested that an alternate disposal method be
used until the wastewater treatment plant could be modified to accommodate the chromium.
Plating wastewater then was discharged into a dry well on the property and into a large
depression located beyond the eastern property line. In 1983, the State ordered Frontier to
stop discharging into the dry well. The plating baths contained variable amounts of dissolved
metals and other contaminants stripped from the metal pieces being plated, including iron,
nickel, and trivalent chromium. The Columbia River is approximately 1/2 mile south of the
facility. Drinking water for 10,000 Vancouver residents is drawn from an aquifer under the
site. The nearest city well is about a mile upgradient from a contaminated well. The closest
residence is on adjoining property to the north of the site, and two others are a few hundred
feet farther north.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soils are contaminated with heavy metals and volatile organic
compounds (VOCs). People may be exposed to pollutants through ingestion of or
direct contact with contaminated groundwater or soils.
36
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The EPA selected the following remedy to clean up the site:
excavating chromium-contaminated soils; treating the excavated materials by
chemical stabilization; replacing the treated materials; demolishing the buildings
on the site; installing a cap over the site to prevent leaching of chromium from the soils and
to control surface water runoff resulting from rain; installing groundwater extraction wells;
installing a groundwater treatment system to remove contaminants; discharging the treated
water into the Columbia River or into the city of Vancouver's sewer system; and developing
regulatory controls restricting the use of groundwater and controlling the drilling of new wells
in the groundwater plume. The design of these cleanup remedies has been delayed while the
EPA conducts additional groundwater monitoring to evaluate a noted reduction in
groundwater contamination. The results from the groundwater monitoring will be use to
determine if groundwater treatment and soil stabilization are necessary in order to meet
cleanup goals. The groundwater monitoring is scheduled for completion in 1994.
Environmental Progress
The EPA conducted an initial evaluation of the Frontier Hard Chrome site and determined
that no immediate actions are needed while the design of the final cleanup remedy is
underway.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Toxic Cleanup Reference Center, Woodland Square,
4415 Woodview Drive Southeast, Lacey, WA 98504
FRONTIER HARD CHROME, INC. 37 March 1992
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GENERAL
ELECTRI
(SPOKAN
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD001865450
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
Spokane
Other Names:
pokane Apparatus Service Shop
General Electric-Old Site
GE-Spokane Site
Site Description
The General Electric Company site covers about 5 acres in Spokane and includes the
company's former industrial service shop and adjacent leased property. From 1961 to 1980,
General Electric cleaned, repaired, and restored electrical transformers. The company stored
oils from the transformers, electrical motors, switches, pumps, compressors, and other related
equipment on the site. Some of this equipment contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
that entered dry wells on site as a result of steam cleaning activities. General Electric began a
study of the contamination at the site after the Washington Department of Ecology (WDOE)
found high levels of PCBs in soils. The site is located along the northern edge of a light
industrial area in eastern Spokane. About 200,000 people live within 3 miles of the site. The
facility overlies the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, which is the sole source of
drinking water for the area. There are about 50 private wells within 4 square miles of the
site. The facility is approximately 1,200 feet south of the Spokane River.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater and sludge contain PCBs. Soil is contaminated with PCBs and
heavy metals, including copper and lead. Individuals who come into direct contact
with or ingest contaminated groundwater, soil, or sludge may suffer adverse health
effects.
38
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The immediate actions completed in 1990 included:
demolishing the service shop and removing it from the site, excavating
underground structures, transporting and disposing of building debris and a limited
amount of soil in a hazardous waste disposal facility, drilling soil test borings, installing
additional groundwater monitoring wells, and sampling the groundwater.
Entire Site: Under State supervision, General Electric is conducting a study to
determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify cleanup
alternatives at the site. The study is scheduled to be completed in mid-late 1992.
Site Facts: General Electric and the State signed an Agreed Order, under which the
company agreed to conduct an investigation of the site.
Environmental Progress
Demolishing the service shop and excavating underground structures and soils have reduced
the threat of exposure to contaminants while an investigation leading to the selection of a
final cleanup remedy is underway at the General Electric Co. site.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Eastern Region, North 4601 Monroe Street, Suite 100,
Spokane, WA 99205
GENERAL ELECTRIC CO.
(SPOKANE SHOP) 39 March 1992
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GREENACRES
LANDFILL
WASHINGTON
EPAID#WAD98051460
Site Description
PA REGION 10
Spokane County
14 miles east of Spokane
Other Names:
Liberty Lake Landfill
The Greenacres Landfill Site is a 45-acre landfill located near Liberty Lake, 14 miles east of
Spokane. The landfill was operated as an open municipal dump from 1951 to 1967. Upon
dissolution of the Greenacres Township government in 1967, the County assumed
responsibility for the landfill's operation until 1972, when operations ceased. The landfill
accepted a variety of wastes including household, industrial, and agricultural. In 1978, the
State found that a well immediately downgradient from the landfill was contaminated with
chlorinated organic solvents. Results from an EPA water quality study show that groundwater
adjacent to the site is becoming increasingly contaminated. Approximately 1,000 people live
within a 4-mile radius of the site. There are public wells within 2 miles of the site, but water
quality data show the wells are not contaminated. The Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie
Aquifer underlying the site is sole the source aquifer and is the source of drinking water for
about 350,000 people.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and County actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs), acid, and heavy metals.
People who ingest or come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater may
be at risk. The major health hazard posed by the site is the potential movement of
contaminated groundwater into the sole source aquifer.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
40
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1984, the State began a study of the nature and extent of
contamination. This study also will identify cleanup alternatives at the site. The
County took over responsibility for the study in late 1987. The study has been
completed and a cleanup remedy is expected to be selected by mid-1992.
Site Facts: In late 1987, the State and the County of Spokane signed a Consent Decree,
requiring the County to conduct a study of site contamination.
Environmental Progress
An initial evaluation of the Greenacres Landfill site determined that no immediate actions
were needed while cleanup remedies are being planned.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Eastern Region, North 4601 Monroe Street, Suite 100,
Spokane, WA 99205
GREENACRES LANDFILL
41
March 1992
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HAMILTON I
LANDFILL (
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WA5210890096
Site Description
REGION 10
North Bonneville
Hamilton Island Landfill is a 240-acre site located in southwest Washington and owned and
managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USA/COE). From 1977 to 1982, this unlined
landfill was used to house approximately 19 million cubic yards of materials excavated during
the construction of a powerhouse for the Bonneville dam, which lies 1 mile upstream, as well
as the debris collected during the demolition of a nearby town. Noted chemical wastes include
paints and degreasers. Approximately 900 people obtain their drinking water from wells within
4 miles of the site. The Columbia River, a highly productive area for commercial and
recreational fisheries, boating, site-seeing, and wind surfing, is adjacent to the site. The site
lies within a Federally-designated National Scenic Area.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/29/91
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
Surface and subsurface soil, groundwater, and leachate are contaminated with
elevated levels of heavy metals including arsenic and cadmium, and various volatile
and semivolatile organic compounds (VOCs). Discharges of materials from a
nearby culvert into the Columbia River contained copper levels above the EPA's
fresh water Ambient Water Quality Criteria established under the Clean Water
Act. Site run-off received by a nearby wildlife mitigation area contained elevated
levels of toluene and zinc. Individuals could be at risk by ingesting or coming into
direct contact with contaminated soil, groundwater, leachate, or surface water.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being approached in two phases: immediate actions and one long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
42
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: USA/COE fenced a portion of the site in 1987, restricting
public access to contamination at the site.
Entire Site: Investigations to determine the nature and extent of contamination
and to identify cleanup alternatives are expected to begin once the site is officially
listed on the NPL.
Site Facts: The USA/COE, the EPA, and the Washington Department of Ecology (WDOE)
will negotiate a formal agreement requiring the USA/COE to conduct additional
investigations of the site and to study various cleanup alternatives under EPA and WDOE
supervision.
Environmental Progress
The immediate action which restricted site access by enclosing the dangerous areas of the site
has eliminated potential human health and safety risks while further investigations are being
completed.
Site Repository
Not established.
HAMILTON ISLAND LANDFILL (USA/COE)
43
March 1992
-------
HANFORD
100-AREA
(USDOE)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA3890090076
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Benton County
35 miles north of Richland
Other Names:
USDOE-Hanford Site-100-Area
The Hanford 100-Area site covers 11 square miles 35 miles north of Richland. It is one of
four areas at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation listed as sites on the NPL; the other three
are the 200-, 300-, and 1100-Areas. These areas are part of a large U.S Department of
Energy (DOE) complex that includes buildings, disposal sites, an ecological research park,
and vacant land covering approximately 560 square miles. Hanford was built in the 1940s to
make plutonium for nuclear weapons. The nearby Columbia River provided cooling waters
for the reactors producing the nuclear materials. The Atomic Energy Commission was in
charge of these operations from the early 1940s until Congress created the DOE in 1977.
Over the years, Hanford widened its role to include research and development of nuclear
materials for uses other than nuclear weapons. The 100-Area is adjacent to the Columbia
River in the northern section of Hanford and includes nine nuclear reactors. Of these, eight
were used from the 1940s to the early 1970s to produce plutonium. The ninth reactor was
used to produce plutonium and electricity until the DOE shut it down in 1988. The DOE and
its predecessor disposed of several million cubic yards of soil and radioactive and hazardous
wastes in cribs, trenches, and burial grounds in the 100-Area. Approximately 11 square miles
of groundwater under the 100-Area are contaminated. The shallow groundwater underneath
the site consists of a sand and gravel aquifer, conditions that facilitate the movement of
contaminants through the water. Groundwater is not used as a source of drinking water
within 3 miles of the 100-Area; however, groundwater does flow into the Columbia River.
Over 3,000 workers at the 100- and 200-Areas of Hanford use drinking water intakes located
along the stretch of the Columbia River occupied by the 100-Area. The Cities of Richland,
Pasco, and Kennewick, with a combined population of approximately 90,000 people, maintain
water intakes on the Columbia River for the bulk of their municipal supply system, but
occasionally mix it with groundwater from municipal wells drilled in the sand and gravel
aquifer. The Yakima Indian Nation has exclusive fishing rights to the Yakima River, which
borders the site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being address through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
44
March 1992
-------
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater in the Hanford 100-Area contains radioactive waste material
including strontium, cobalt, and uranium. People could be exposed to hazardous
substances through direct contact with or accidental ingestion of contaminated
groundwater. The Yakima River borders the site and is a main fishing source for
the Yakima Indian Nation reservation.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in nine long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of all
contamination at the site.
Response Action Status
100-HR-1 and 100-HR-3 Areas: Under State oversight, the DOE is
investigating the nature and extent of contamination at the 100-HR-1 and
100-HR-3 Areas. The 100-HR-1 Area consists of the liquid disposal sites located
within the 100-H subsite. The 100-H subsite contains one reactor and support facilities. The
100-HR-3 Area consists of the groundwater underneath the 100-D and 100-H subsites. The
studies are expected to be completed in early 1995.
100-DR-1 and 100-BC-1 Areas: The DOE is conducting an investigation to
determine the nature and extent of contamination at the 100-DR-l Area and the
100-BC-l Area. The State is overseeing cleanup of the 100-DR-l Area while the
EPA is overseeing cleanup of the 100-BC-l Area. The 100-DR-l Area consists of the liquid
disposal sites in the 100-D subsite. The 100-D area contains two reactors and support
facilities. The 100-BC-l area consists of the liquid disposal sites in the 100-B and 100-C
subsites. The 100-B and 100-C subsites each contain one reactor and support facilities. The
studies are expected to be completed in late 1994.
100-BC-5, 100-KR-1, and 100-KR-4 Areas: Under EPA oversight, the DOE is
investigating the nature and extent of contamination at the 100-BC-5, 100-KR-l,
and 100-KR-4 Areas. The 100-BC-5 Area consists of the groundwater that
underlies the 100-B and 100-C subsites. The 100-KR-l Area consists of the liquid disposal
sites in the 100-K subsite of Hanford. The 100-K Area contains two reactors and support
facilities. The 100-KR-4 Area consists of the groundwater that underlies the 100-K subsite.
The studies at 100-BC-5 and 100-KR-l Areas are expected to be completed in late 1995,
while the 100-KR-4 investigation is scheduled for completion in 1995.
100-NR-1 Area: Under State oversight, the DOE is scheduled to investigate the
nature and extent of contamination at the 100-NR-l Area. The 100-NR-l Area
consists of the liquid disposal sites in the 100-N subsite. Completion of this study
has been delayed due to an expansion in the scope of the study, but current expectations are
that the study will be completed in mid-1995.
HANFORD 100-AREA (USDOE) 45 March 1992
-------
100-NR-2 Area: Contaminated areas other than the liquid disposal sites in the
100-N subsite will be the focus of this investigation. The scope of the study has
been expanded to include additional N-Area sites. Investigations are scheduled to
begin in 1993. The DOE also expects to begin an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination of groundwater in 1993.
10O-FR-1 Area: The investigation at this area will address the primary liquid
disposal areas at the 100-F Reactor Area. The investigation work plan currently is
under review; field work is scheduled to begin in late 1992.
100-BC-2, 100-DR-2, 100-HR-2 Areas, and 100-KR-2: These investigations
have been delayed as part of Hanford's streamlining strategy in favor of activities
that were found to be of greater benefit to site cleanup than the development of
study plans. The alternate investigations include a River Impact Study of the Columbia River
adjacent to all reactor areas, a cumulative risk assessment for all the 100-Area investigations,
and the finalization of a risk assessment methodology for all reactor areas. No revised start
date has been determined yet for the site studies.
100-FR-3: In 1991, the DOE began an investigation to determine the nature and
extent of contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives for groundwater
contamination in the F Reactor Area.
100-BC-3, 100-KR-3, 100-DR-3, 100-HR-2, and 100-FR-2: The EPA has
identified solid waste burial grounds in these areas of the site. Cleanup
investigations in each area will be coordinated as the nature of the contamination
is related. Currently, the EPA has not scheduled a date to begin these investigations.
Site Facts: In May 1989, the EPA, the State, and the DOE entered into an Interagency
Agreement and a Consent Order to provide a legal and procedural framework for cleanup
and regulatory compliance at the DOE's waste sites at Hanford. The EPA, the DOE, and the
Washington State Department of Ecology jointly developed an action plan that addresses
Superfund and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)-related issues at Hanford.
The parties will produce work plans to study the nature and extent of contamination at the
Hanford site.
Environmental Progress
The Hanford 100-Area (DOE) site is a secured DOE facility; public access is limited.
Exposure to contamination is unlikely while the EPA and the State plan investigations leading
to the selection of final cleanup remedies for the site.
March 1992 46 HANFORD 100-AREA (USDOE)
-------
Site Repository
U.S. Department of Energy Public Reading Room, Federal Building, Room 157,
825 Jadwin Avenue, Richland, WA 99352
HANFORD 100-AREA (USDOE) 47 March 1992
-------
HANFORD
1100-ARE
(USDOE)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA4890090075
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Benton County
1 mile north of Richland
Other Names:
Hanford Site-1100
USDOE-Hanford Site 1100-Area
The Hanford 1100-Area covers 150 acres, approximately 1 mile north of Richland. It is one
of the four areas at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation on the NPL; the other three are the
100-, 200-, and 300-Areas. These areas are part of a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
complex that includes buildings, disposal sites, an ecological research park, and vacant land
covering approximately 560 square miles. Hanford was built in the 1940s to make plutonium
for nuclear weapons. The nearby Columbia River provided cooling waters for the reactors
producing the nuclear materials. The Atomic Energy Commission was in charge of these
operations from the early 1940s until Congress created the DOE in 1977. Over the years,
Hanford widened its role to include research and development of nuclear materials for uses
other than nuclear weapons. The DOE conducts maintenance operations in the 1100-Area
and provides services to other areas of the site. The area includes a warehouse, a vehicle
repair shop, a gas station, and a bus depot for Hanford workers. The DOE is specifically
concerned with approximately 10 acres of the 1100-Area containing a landfill, a sandpit, an
underground storage tank, and other areas that potentially are contaminated. Up to 15,000
gallons of waste battery acid may have been disposed of in the pit. The DOE used the tank
to store waste antifreeze, and it may have leaked from the tank. Shallow groundwater under
the 1100-Area is 24 feet below the surface. The shallow groundwater underneath Hanford
and Richland consists of a sand and gravel aquifer, a condition that facilitates the movement
of contaminants through the water. The Columbia River is used for industrial process water,
boating, fishing, hunting, and as a drinking water supply about a mile downstream of the site.
The cities of Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick, with a combined population of about 90,000
people, maintain water intakes in the Columbia River for the bulk of their municipal supply
system, but occasionally mix it with groundwater from municipal wells drilled into the sand
and gravel aquifer. The nearest well in Richland is approximately 2,600 feet from the disposal
area. The Yakima Indian Nation has exclusive fishing rights to the Yakima River, which
borders the site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
48
March 1992
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Threats and Contaminants
On-site wells in the vicinity of the 1100-Area contain volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) including trichloroethylene (TCE). Nitrates, sodium, and sulfate are
present in Richland's well water. On-site soils are contaminated with heavy metals
and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Possible exposure routes include direct
contact with or accidental ingestion of contaminated groundwater and soil. The
Yakima River borders the site and is a main fishing source for the Yakima Indian
Reservation.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire 1100-Area.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1989, the DOE began a study of the 1100-Area to determine the
nature and extent of contamination at the site and to identify alternative methods
to address the contamination. The DOE expects to divide the investigations into
four separate projects. The first study is expected to be completed in late 1992.
Site Facts: In May 1989, the EPA, the State, and the DOE entered into an Interagency
Agreement and a Consent Order to provide a legal and procedural framework for cleanup
and regulatory compliance at the DOE's waste sites at Hanford. The EPA, the DOE, and the
Washington Department of Ecology jointly developed an action plan that addresses
Superfund- and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)-related issues at
Hanford. The parties will produce work plans to study the nature and extent of
contamination at the Hanford site.
Environmental Progress
The Hanford site is a secured DOE facility, and public access is limited. Public exposure to
contamination is unlikely while the DOE and the State continue investigations leading to the
selection of final cleanup remedies at the Hanford 1100-Area site.
Site Repository
U.S. Department of Energy Public Reading Room, Federal Building, Room 157,
825 Jadwin Avenue, Richland, WA 99352
HANFORD 1100-AREA (USDOE) 49 March 1992
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HANFORD
200-AREA
(USDOE)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA1890090078'
EPA REGION 10
Benton County
20 miles north of Richland
Other Names:
US DOE- Hanford Stte-200-Area
Site Description
The Hanford 200-Area covers 215 square miles about 20 miles north of Richland. It is one of
the four areas at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation on the NPL; the other three are the 100-,
300-, and 1100-Areas. These areas are part of a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) complex
that includes buildings, disposal sites, an ecological research park, and vacant land covering
approximately 560 square miles. Hanford was built in the 1940s to make plutoniurn for
nuclear weapons. The nearby Columbia River provided cooling waters for the reactors
producing the nuclear materials. The Atomic Energy Commission was in charge of these
operations from the 1940s until Congress created the DOE in 1977. Over the years, Hanford
widened its role to include research and development of nuclear materials for uses other than
nuclear weapons. The 200-Area is in the middle of the Hanford facility. The DOE uses the
200-Area to reprocess, finish, and manage nuclear materials, especially plutoniurn. The DOE
and its predecessor disposed of an estimated 1 billion cubic yards of solid and diluted liquid
wastes comprised of radioactive, mixed, and hazardous substances in trenches, ditches, and
landfills on the site. Over 230 waste disposal locations have been identified in the 200-Area.
The shallow groundwater underlying Hanford and Richland consists of a sand and gravel
aquifer, conditions that facilitate the movement of contaminants through water. Over 3,000
workers at the 100- and 200-Areas of Hanford use drinking water from intakes on the
Columbia River, which are 5 miles north of the site. The cities of Richland, Pasco, and
Kennewick, with a combined population of approximately 90,000 people, maintain water
intakes in the Columbia River for the bulk of their municipal supply system, but occasionally
mix it with groundwater from municipal wells drilled in the sand and gravel aquifer. The
Yakima Indian Nation has exclusive fishing rights to the Yakima River, which borders the
site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
50
March 1992
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Threats and Contaminants
213
Air sampling in the 200-Area in 1987 showed the presence of strontium, iodine,
and plutonium. On-site groundwater is contaminated with tritium, uranium,
cyanide, and carbon-tetrachloride. Surface water intakes on the Columbia River
for the city of Richland contain tritium. Soil on site contains tetrachloride. People
may be exposed to hazardous or radioactive substances on site through direct
contact with, accidental ingestion of, or inhalation of contaminated particles,
groundwater, or surface water. The Yakima River borders the site and is a main
fishing source for the Yakima Indian Reservation.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages, Expedited Response Actions, Interim Actions, and
Long-term Remedial Actions.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: The removal of approximately 1400 metric tons of carbon
tetrachloride from the 200-ZP-l area began in 1992. This material is being
removed from the soil by large-scale soil vapor extraction.
200-UP-2-Area: Forty-three individual waste sites are located in 200-UP-2, part
of the 200 West Area, most of which received liquid waste from the uranium
recovery and reprocessing plant. The DOE is expected to begin an investigation
into the nature and extent of contamination at this area in late 1993.
200-BP-1-Area: In 1989, the DOE began a study of the 200-BP-l-Area to
determine the nature and extent of contamination at the site and to identify
alternative methods to address the contamination. Due to the size and complexity
of the site, the DOE expects to complete the study early 1996.
Site Facts: In May 1989, the EPA, the State, and the DOE entered into an Interagency
Agreement and a Consent Order to provide a legal and procedural framework for cleanup
and regulatory compliance at the DOE's waste sites at Hanford. The EPA, the DOE, and the
Washington State Department of Ecology jointly developed an action plan that addresses
Superfund and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)-related issues at Hanford.
The parties will produce work plans to study the nature and extent of contamination at the
site. Opposition has been expressed by the Yakima Indian Nation, whose land the Hanford
site occupies.
HANFORD 200-AREA (USDOE) 51 March 1992
-------
Environmental Progress
The Hanford site is a secured DOE facility, and public access is limited. Limiting public
access to the site, combined with the removal of contaminated soil, greatly reduces the threat
of direct exposure to contaminants while the DOE continues investigations leading to the
selection of final cleanup remedies at the Hanford 200-Area site.
Site Repository
U.S. Department of Energy Public Reading Room, Federal Building, Room 157,
825 Jadwin Avenue, Richland, WA 99352
March 1992
52
HANFORD 200-AREA (USDOE)
-------
HANFORD
3 00-ARE
(USDOE)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA289009007
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Benton County
2 miles north of Richland
Other Names:
USDOE-Hanford Sfte-300 Area
The Hanford 300-Area covers about 1 square mile, 2 miles north of Richland. It is one of the
four areas at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation on the NPL; the other three are the 100-,
200-, and 1100-Areas. These areas are part of a Department of Energy (DOE) complex that
includes buildings, disposal sites, an ecological research park, and vacant land covering about
560 square miles. Hanford was built in the 1940s to make plutonium for nuclear weapons.
The nearby Columbia River provided cooling waters for the reactors producing the nuclear
materials. The Atomic Energy Commission was in charge of these operations from the early
1940s until Congress created the DOE in 1977. Over the years, Hanford widened its role to
include research and development of nuclear materials for uses other than nuclear weapons.
The DOE fabricates fuel for nuclear reactors in the 300-Area. The site contains 25 separate
locations used to dispose of radioactive and hazardous wastes. The disposal areas and plumes
of contaminated groundwater under them cover approximately 2 square miles. The DOE and
its predecessor disposed of about 27 million cubic yards of solid and diluted liquid wastes
mixed with radioactive and hazardous wastes in ponds, trenches, and landfills in the 300-Area.
The areas used for liquid discharges had no outlets, and liquids percolated through the soil
into the groundwater and the Columbia River located directly east and downgradient from
the 300-Area. The shallow groundwater underlying Hanford and Richland consists of a sand
and gravel aquifer, conditions that facilitate the movement of contaminants through water.
The Columbia River is used for industrial process water, boating, fishing, hunting, and as a
supply of drinking water 3 miles downstream of the 300-Area. The cities of Richland, Pasco,
and Kennewick, with a combined population of approximately 90,000 people, maintain water
intakes in the Columbia River for the bulk of their municipal supply system, but occasionally
mix it with groundwater from municipal wells drilled in the sand and gravel aquifer. The
Yakima Indian Nation has exclusive fishing rights to the Yakima River, which borders the
site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
53
March 1992
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Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater is contaminated with uranium and trichloroethane. Soils on
and off site contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), trichloroethylene (TCE),
cobalt, and uranium. The DOE has detected uranium in springs around the area
and the Columbia River. Strontium and uranium are present in vegetation. People
could be exposed to hazardous and radioactive substances from the site through
direct contact, accidental ingestion, and inhalation of contaminated particles,
groundwater, soil, or surface water.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three phases: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on source control and groundwater cleanup in the 300-Area.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1991, buried drums of hexone and kerosene were
removed from burial grounds on site. Incineration of the recovered organic liquids
is scheduled to be completed by mid-1992.
Source Control: In 1989, the DOE began a study of the 300-Area to determine
the nature, extent, and source of the contamination at the site and to identify
alternative methods to address the contamination. A removal and consolidation of
contaminated sediments from the 300-Area Process Trenches was completed in late 1991. A
soil washing treatability test is scheduled for the summer of 1992. The DOE expects to
complete the study in mid-1995.
Groundwater: In late 1990, the DOE began a study of the groundwater
contamination in the 300-Area to identify alternative methods to address the
contamination. The DOE expects to complete the study in early 1996.
Site Facts: In May 1989, the EPA, the State, and the DOE entered into an Interagency
Agreement and a Consent Order to provide a legal and procedural framework for cleanup
and regulatory compliance at the DOE's waste sites at Hanford. The EPA, the DOE, and the
Washington State Department of Ecology jointly developed an action plan that addresses
Superfund and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)-related issues at Hanford.
The parties will produce work plans to study the nature and extent of contamination at the
site.
March 1992 54 HANFORD 300-AREA (USDOE)
-------
Environmental Progress
The Hanford site is a secured DOE facility, and public access is limited. Public exposure to
contamination is unlikely while the DOE continues investigations leading to the selection of
final cleanup remedies for the Hanford 300-Area site.
Site Repository
U.S. Department of Energy Public Reading Room, Federal Building, Room 157,
825 Jadwin Avenue, Richland, WA 99352
HANFORD 300-AREA (USDOE)
55
March 1992
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HARBOR ISLA
(LEAD)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980722839
EPA REGION 10
King County
Puget Sound
Other Names:
^Western Pacific Vacuum Services
Asahipen America, Inc.
Todd Shipyard Corp.
Puget Sound Tug & Barge - Pier 17
Site Description
The 405-acre Harbor Island (Lead) site is an island that has been used for commercial and
industrial activities since the early 1900s. The island is located in an area consisting of inter-
tidal wetlands at the mouth of the Duwamish Waterway and Elliott Bay in Puget Sound. The
island was constructed of river sediments, dredged to facilitate navigation, and debris from
demolition and regrading projects in the Seattle area. Commercial activities on the island
include secondary lead smelting, lead fabrication, metal plating, shipbuilding, petroleum
product storage, shipping, and rail transport. Past metal smelting practices contributed
significant amounts of dust to the atmosphere and resulted in widespread distribution of
contaminated dust. However, the smelter has been closed since 1984 and no longer is a
source of air contamination. Warehouses, laboratories, and office buildings also are located
on the island. There are no residences on Harbor Island, but approximately 10,000 people live
within a mile of the site. The closest residence is about 1/4 mile away. All residents are
supplied with water from the Seattle public water supply system. Elliott Bay is used by
fishermen for shellfishing and crabbing.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal, municipal, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains lead and other metals. Sediments near the island are
contaminated with heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), various
pesticides, phenols, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Soils contain heavy
metals, PCBs, PAHs, and organics. Fish in Elliott Bay are contaminated with
PCBs. Individuals risk exposure to contaminants by direct contact with or ingestion
of groundwater, sediments, soils, or fish. The site is an estuary, an important
habitat for wildlife.
56
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in four stages: immediate actions and three long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the storm drains, the soil, groundwater and sediments, and the
Lockheed Shipyards.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The City of Seattle paved over areas where lead
contamination in the soils was the highest. Emission control equipment was placed
on at least one production plant to reduce the levels of airborne lead being
released from the stacks. The property owner removed drums containing metal plating
solutions under a Consent Order signed in January 1991.
Storm Drains: In 1989, the City of Seattle, under EPA monitoring, completed
sampling the storm drains to determine the extent of contamination in the
sediments. The EPA determined that the sources of contamination were linked to
illicit connections, poor housekeeping practices, and runoff from on-site contamination. The
City of Seattle and the Washington Department of Ecology have cooperated in eliminating
these sources. In early 1991, the City installed floodgates on the storm drain outfalls into
Puget Sound. These gates allow City crews to clean out the system at any time and prevent
the tidal action from washing offshore contaminants back into the storm drain system. The
storm drains have been cleaned, and contaminated sediments have been disposed of. The City
expects to monitor the storm drain system.
Soil/Groundwater/Sediments: In 1989, the EPA conducted the first phase of
an investigation into soil, sediment, and groundwater contamination. The
investigations included sampling soil at six areas where there was evidence of
previous contamination or where past industrial operations included possible soil
contamination. Twenty groundwater samples also were taken at various locations around the
island. The second phase of the investigation includes a comprehensive sampling of soils
across the entire island, groundwater, and marine sediment. The second phase of the
investigation began in May of 1991. Recommendations for site cleanup of soil and
groundwater are expected in late 1992, and for cleanup of sediments in 1993.
Lockheed Shipyards: The EPA sent a notice letter to Lockheed Shipyards,
requesting participation in investigating contamination in the area. In 1990, the
potentially responsible party began conducting an investigation to determine the
nature and extent of contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives. The study is
expected to be completed in early 1994.
Site Facts: In 1989, the EPA and the City of Seattle signed an agreement, requiring the
City to sample and clean up City-owned storm drains on Harbor Island. Under a 1991
Consent Order, the property owner removed drums containing metal plating solutions.
HARBOR ISLAND (LEAD) 57 March 1992
-------
Environmental Progress
Paving over contaminated soils, installing emission controls, cleaning out the storm drains,
and removing contaminated drums have reduced the threat of exposure to contaminants at
the Harbor Island (Lead) site while investigations leading to the selection of final cleanup
remedies are continuing.
Site Repository
EPA Region 10 Library, 1200 6th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101
March 1992
58
HARBOR ISLAND (LEAD)
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HIDDEN VALLEY
LANDFILL
(THUN FIELD)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WAD980511539
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Pierce County
Near Puyallup
Other Names:
Thun Field
Pierce County Landfill
The 75-acre Hidden Valley Landfill (Thun Field) site, near Puyallup, operated as a landfill
and old gravel pit from 1967 to 1983. The landfill accepted liquid, solid, and industrial wastes,
including heavy metal sludges. Approximately 48 acres have been covered with waste. The
landfill does not have a liner or leachate collection system, but a methane collection and burn
system was installed to reduce odors from the site. Although the landfill is scheduled to close
in 1992, the owner has requested permission from the State to expand operations. The Thun
Field airstrip, an active gravel pit, and a gun club are adjacent to the landfill. The area is
sparsely populated, with approximately 1,700 people residing about a mile from the site.
Approximately 7,300 people are served by 35 public water supply systems drawing from
groundwater within 3 miles of the landfill. The nearest well is 1,000 feet away from the
landfill. The County has applied to have the aquifer that underlies the site designated as a
sole source aquifer. The County's petition is being reviewed by the EPA; a decision is
expected to be made by late 1992. A freshwater wetland is 1 mile from the site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals, volatile organic compounds
(VOCs), and pentachlorophenol (PCP). Liquid waste found on site contains
chromium. People who accidentally ingest or come into direct contact with
contaminated groundwater or liquid waste may suffer adverse health effects.
Wetlands also may be threatened.
59
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1987, a potentially responsible party, Land Recovery, Inc., under
State oversight, began a study into the nature and extent of contamination at the
site. The study, scheduled to be completed in mid-1992, is defining the
contaminants of concern and will recommend effective alternatives for final site cleanup.
Site Facts: In 1987, the State and Land Recovery, Inc. entered into a Consent Order,
requiring the company to conduct an investigation of the site.
Environmental Progress
The EPA has conducted an initial evaluation of the Hidden Valley Landfill (Thun Field) site
and determined that no immediate actions are needed while an investigation leading to the
selection of final cleanup remedies is underway.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Southwest Region, Records Center,
7272 Cleanwater Lane, Olympia, WA 98504
March 1992
60
HIDDEN VALLEY LANDFILL (THUN FIELD)
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KAISER ALUMINUM
MEAD WOR
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD000065508'
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
Near Mead
Other Names:
Kaiser Aluminum & Chemical
Corp. - Mead Works
Site Description
The 240-acre Kaiser Aluminum Mead Works site is an aluminum reduction facility located
near Mead. From 1942 until 1978, pot linings were disposed of in the northwestern section of
the plant property. The pots were soaked with water to loosen the linings for removal prior to
disposal. In 1978, cyanide was detected in several private drinking water wells to the
northwest of the Kaiser facility. Cyanide has contaminated an aquifer that supplies water to a
tributary of the Little Spokane River. The contamination is believed to have originated from
the pot lining wastes or wastewater from the pot soaking. In 1978, Kaiser discontinued the
practices of pot soaking and discharging effluent to sewage ponds. Since 1980, the pot liner
wastes have been placed in a specially constructed building. The closest residences are located
about 1/2 mile northwest of the plant. Approximately 5,500 people are served by the water
system.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Cyanide and fluoride were detected in soils and the upper portion of the aquifer
underlying the site. Concentrations of cyanide in the groundwater plume are
decreasing with the dewatering of several industrial lagoons or ponds near the pot
liner disposal area. On-site leachate contains arsenic and cyanide. People may be
exposed to contaminants through direct contact with or accidental ingestion of soil,
groundwater, or leachate. The migration of the contaminant plume from the site
may potentially affect aquatic life in the Little Spokane River.
61
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Kaiser offered to supply affected residents with bottled
water and physical examinations. The company also offered residences with
contaminated wells the options of a permanent hook-up to public water, a
deionizer for existing wells, or newly constructed wells. One individual opted for the new well,
while 25 affected residences were connected to public water. In 1979, Kaiser paved the pot
linings waste pile with asphalt. An adjacent area located to the north of the waste pile was
fitted with an underdrain system leading to a lined pond was paved.
Entire Site: In 1988, Kaiser began an assessment of the site contamination. The
assessment has been completed, and a report has been submitted to the State for
review, which summarizes the investigations of the site and provides evaluations of
alternative cleanup actions. The State review of the report is expected to be completed in
late 1992. Upon completion of the review, an agreement on cleanup measures will be made.
Environmental Progress
The alternate water supply provided to affected residences has reduced the threat to public
health while the State and the EPA review the investigation results and choose a final
cleanup remedy for the Kaiser Aluminum Mead Works site.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Eastern Region, North 4601 Monroe Street, Suite 100,
Spokane, WA 99205
March 1992 62 KAISER ALUMINUM MEAD WORKS
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LAKEWOOD SI
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD05007566,
EPA REGION 10
Pierce County
Lakewood
Other Names:
Lakewood Water District Site
Ponder's Corner
Plaza Cleaners
Site Description
The Lakewood Site is a commercial area that includes a laundry and dry-cleaning facility and
covers about 1 square mile in Lakewood. In 1981, two major wells of the Lakewood Water
District, which serves more than 10,000 people, were found to be contaminated with
chlorinated organic compounds. The Lakewood Water District took the wells out of
production and notified its customers of the problem. Following the shutdown of the wells,
the EPA determined the contaminants were components of degreasers, solvents, and other
substances common in industrial use. Further investigation showed the contamination was
coming from the commercial dry cleaner.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
The solvents trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene were detected in
groundwater and soil. Potential health risks existed for individuals accidentally
ingesting or coming into direct contact with contaminated groundwater and soil.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
63
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Between 1984 and 1985, the State excavated the septic
tanks and some contaminated sludge from the site. Two aeration towers were
constructed to remove the organic solvents in the public water supply. The area
then was backfilled with clean soils.
Entire Site: Following an investigation of the soil and groundwater contamination
at the site in 1985, the EPA determined that groundwater monitoring would
continue, and contaminated soil would need treatment to extract the solvents. In
1992, the EPA completed treatment of the contaminated soils on the Plaza Cleaners property
using a soil vapor extraction system to reduce contaminant levels. The vapor extraction
system since has been dismantled. The groundwater treatment system, installed as part of the
immediate actions, continues to successfully remove contaminants from the drinking water
supply. Groundwater treatment is expected to continue until contamination has been reduced
to established safety levels.
Site Facts: In 1983, the State issued an enforcement order requiring Plaza Cleaners to
cease dumping solvent-containing materials into the septic system. Notice letters were sent to
two potentially responsible parties in 1989. Because they were not able to pay for the
cleanup, a lien was placed on the property in February 1991.
Environmental Progress
The soil treatment has been completed at the Lakewood Site. The groundwater treatment
system is successfully removing contaminants and protecting public health and the
environment near the Lakewood Site. The EPA expects the Lakewood Water District to
continue operating the groundwater treatment system until contamination has been reduced
to established safety levels.
Site Repository
Pierce County Library, Lakewood Branch, 6300 Wildaire Road Southwest,
Tacoma, WA 98499
March 1992
64
LAKEWOOD SITE
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MCCHORD
AIR FOR
(WASH RA
TREATME
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WA8570024200
PA REGION 10
Pierce County
South of Tacoma
Other Names:
- McChord Air Force Base
cChord Wash Rack Area
Site Description
McChord Air Force Base is an active military base covering almost 4,600 acres, just south of
Tacoma. The mission of the base is to provide airlift services to troops, cargo, equipment,
passengers, and mail. Since 1940, almost 500,000 gallons of hazardous substances have been
used and disposed of on the base. The Wash Rack/Treatment Area is a former aircraft
washing facility. The site encompasses the pavement area, where airplanes were washed to
remove oil, grease, and other foreign materials with chemical solvents, and two unlined leach
pits that received contaminated wash water runoff from the adjacent pavement. Underneath
the site is part of an aquifer that supplies drinking water to McChord Air Force Base, the
Lakewood Water District, and the American Lake Gardens development. American Lake
Gardens is a separate NPL site. The nearest residence is 1/2 mile away, and over 16,000
people live within 3 miles of the site. Approximately 300 domestic wells are located within 5
miles of the base.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 07/22/87
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater may be contaminated with heavy metals and volatile organic
compounds (VOCs). A layer of floating fuel, approximately 200,000 square feet, is
contaminated with benzene. The layer of floating fuel sits on top of the
groundwater table. Individuals who ingest or come into direct contact with
contaminated groundwater may be at risk.
65
March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1989, an investigation was begun to determine the type and extent
of contamination at the base. The investigation was completed in 1992. Cleanup
remedies are expected to be finalized in mid-1992.
Site Facts: McChord Air Force Base is participating in the Installation Restoration
Program, a specially funded program established by the Department of Defense (DOD) in
1978 to identify, investigate, and control the migration of hazardous contaminants at military
and other DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
The EPA has conducted an initial evaluation of the McChord Air Force Base (Wash
Rack/Treatment Area) site and determined that no immediate actions are needed while an
investigation leading to the selection of final cleanup remedies continues.
Site Repository
McChord Air Force Base Library, Building 765, 62 CSG/SSL, Tacoma, WA 98438
March 1992
66
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE
(WASH RACK/TREATMENT AREA)
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MICA LANDF
WASHINGTON
EPAID#WAD9805116
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
Near Mica
Other Names:
Spokane Co Utilities Dept - Office
Spokane Co - Mica Landfill
Site Description
The Mica Landfill site has been owned by Spokane County Utilities since 1972 and covers
180 acres near Mica. Until 1981, the landfill was licensed by the State to handle hazardous,
domestic, and industrial wastes including dross, baghouse dust, and asbestos in accordance
with State regulations. Although a leachate collection system has been installed, leachate
continues to migrate off site. The landfill, which ceased operation in late 1991, is located on a
hill with intermittent creeks. The creeks empty into Chester Creek, which flows into the
Spokane River 3 miles from the landfill. The Spokane River is connected hydrologically to
the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, which has been designated as a sole source
aquifer. The closest residence is 1/5 mile from the site. Approximately 115 domestic water
wells and 8 irrigation wells are located within 3 miles of the site. About 425 people use the
area groundwater as a drinking water source. Two municipal wells serving approximately
4,000 people are within 3 miles of the landfill.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
County actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and
phenols. Leachate is contaminated with VOCs, including trichloroethylene (TCE).
People who ingest or come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater and
leachate may be at risk. The presence of explosive levels of landfill-generated
methane gas creates additional threats to public health and the environment.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two phases: an initial action and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
67
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Initial Action: In 1991, the County constructed a number of leachate collection
trenches and two leachate collection ponds. These ponds are pumped out as
needed. Leachate is transported to the local treatment plant for treatment and
Entire Site: In 1987, an investigation was begun to determine the type and extent
of contamination at the site. The investigation confirmed groundwater
contamination at the site boundary, which resulted in the expansion of the
groundwater study to include off-site areas. The investigation is scheduled for completion in
late 1992.
Site Facts: The County and the State signed a Consent Order requiring the County to
conduct an investigation of the site under State supervision.
Environmental Progress
Installing leachate collection ponds and trenches has reduced the threat of exposure to
contaminants at the Mica Landfill site while the investigation leading to the selection of final
cleanup remedies is underway.
Site Repository
P5"!
Washington Department of Ecology, Eastern Region, North 4601 Monroe Street, Suite 100,
Spokane, WA 99205
March 1992
68
MICA LANDFILL
-------
MIDWAY LANDE
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD98063891
EPA REGION 10
King County
Kent
Other Names:
Midway Disposal Stte
City of Seattle Midway Landfill
Site Description
The Midway Landfill site is an old gravel quarry covering approximately 60 acres in Kent.
From 1966 to 1983, the landfill, which is on City-owned property, was operated by the City of
Seattle. During operations, approximately 3 million cubic yards of refuse were deposited in
the unlined landfill, including paint sludge, dye and preservative wastewater, oily wastewater,
refinery tank bottoms, and lead-contaminated wastes. Closure activities began in 1983, when
clean soil was used to cover and grade the landfill, and it was capped with silt or fine sands.
Approximately 8,200 people live near the affected area. More than 10,000 people within 3
miles of the landfill obtain drinking water from the aquifer underlying the site. The Green
River is about a mile away.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
municipal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) including benzene and vinyl chloride. VOCs are
present in landfill gas. People may be exposed to contaminants by inhaling landfill
gas or ingesting or coming into direct contact with contaminated groundwater.
Cleanup Approach
The site is begin addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a single long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
69
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1985 and 1986, the City of Seattle installed 32 gas
extraction wells around the perimeter of the landfill to control the migration of
gas from the site. Over 130 additional wells have been installed. Four final flares
to burn off the gases were installed on site. Off-site gas extraction wells were installed to
remove pockets of gas from around the most affected residences as quickly as possible.
Monitoring has indicated that the off-site gas problem has been substantially abated. In
addition, a fence was constructed around the site to restrict access. Under a 1990 Consent
Decree, the City constructed a final protective cover over the site, refined the landfill gas
control systems, and constructed final stormwater and drainage control systems. These
activities were completed in late 1991.
Entire Site: In 1985, an investigation to determine the type and extent of site
contamination began. In 1986, the investigation was taken over by the State. The
study report was submitted in January 1991 and underwent public review and
comment until March 1991. The State plans to select the final remedy for the site in late
1992.
Site Facts: In mid-1990, the City and the State signed a Consent Decree, requiring the City
to conduct immediate actions.
Environmental Progress
The installation of the gas extraction system has reduced the threat of gas migrating from the
Midway Landfill site while construction of the landfill cap and investigations continue.
Site Repository
King County Library System, Kent Library 212 Second Avenue North, Kent, WA 98032
March 1992
70
MIDWAY LANDFILL
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MOSES
WELLFIEL
CONTAMIN
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD988466355
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Grant County
Moses Lake
In February 1988, the Washington Department of Health (WDOH) sampled eight Moses
Lake municipal drinking water wells as part of a routine sampling effort in compliance with
the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). Two wells contained trichloroethylene (TCE)
above the EPA's Maximum Contaminant Level established by the SDWA. These high
concentrations were confirmed in three separate tests conducted in 1988. The two
contaminated wells are part of a blended system that provides drinking water to
approximately 5,000 people. Other residents depend on private wells. The EPA conducted
further studies to identify the potential source or sources of the TCE groundwater
contamination in the Moses Lake area. During a review of nearby Larson Air Force Base
(LAFB) maps, discussions with former LAFB employees, and meetings with the City and Port
of Moses Lake personnel, the EPA identified a number of potential sources, including, but
not limited to, a variety of former LAFB operations and disposal facilities, the City of Moses
Lake municipal waste treatment plant, an infiltration area for the LAFB storm sewer system,
and a burn pit currently used by the Big Bend Community College Fire Training School. The
EPA's study indicates that the area has a long history of operations that could have
generated the waste TCE, however, no definite source has been identified. The regional
hydrogeology is very complex, which greatly complicates the correlation of groundwater
samples with specific portions of the aquifer.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/29/91
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with TCE. Coming in direct contact with or drinking
contaminated groundwater could be a health risk.
71
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed through two phases: immediate actions and a long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The City of Moses Lake and the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers (COE) have been evaluating the municipal water system, taking
contaminated wells out of service or, in some cases, blending the water with clean
water so that citizens are receiving water that meets drinking water standards. The City is
also constructing a new reservoir to better manage water service to the area.
Entire Site: The COE is conducting an environmental investigation at the LAFB
facility, which is part of this proposed site, under the Department of Defense
Environmental Restoration Program. The COE has constructed 23 monitoring
wells and taken soil samples at 52 locations to help determine the sources and extent of
contamination. The EPA has collected 92 soil gas samples and 62 groundwater samples
throughout the affected area. The EPA has also collected geophysical data of the subsurface
in the area of one municipal well and is conducting an assessment to see if removal actions
are necessary. The State of Washington and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry are conducting a health assessment. Investigations to determine the nature and
extent of contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives are expected to begin when the
site is officially listed on the NPL.
Environmental Progress
Improvements made to the municipal water system have reduced the threat of exposure to
TCE contamination while further investigations are being conducted.
Site Repository
Not established.
MOSES LAKE WELLFIELD
March 1992 72 CONTAMINATION
-------
EPA ID# WA5170090059
Site Description
County
Whidbey Island
NAVAL AIR STATION,^ ^REGION 10
WHIDBEY IS
(AULT FIELD)
WASHINGTON
The Naval Air Station at Whidbey Island covers over 7,000 acres and consists of Ault Field
and the Seaplane Base, which are 5 miles apart. The Seaplane Base also is on the NPL and is
being addressed in conjunction with Ault Field. The station was commissioned in 1942 to
maintain and operate facilities and to provide services and materials in support of the Navy's
aviation activities and utilities. Ault Field contains most of the military activities. Its major
waste-generating activities include aircraft and vehicle maintenance and washing, engine
testing, non-destructive testing, parts cleaning, painting and paint stripping, battery
maintenance, pest control, public works maintenance, and transformer servicing. Wastes
generated included solvents, heavy metals, paints, and pentachlorophenols (PCPs). The Ault
Field site contains nine waste areas, including four landfills. The site lies on shallow and sea-
level aquifers. These aquifers provide drinking water to approximately 21,000 people within 3
miles of the site. Local surface water bodies are used for recreation and irrigation. One
surface water intake, about 6,500 feet from the site, is used to irrigate 66 acres of farmland.
A freshwater wetland is within 500 feet of Ault Field.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
trichloroethylene (TCE) and trichloroethane. Accidental ingestion of or direct
contact with the contaminated groundwater could be a health hazard. There is a
potential for the contaminants present on site to pollute the freshwater wetland.
73
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of Areas
5 and 6; the Walker Storage Barn, Pesticide Rinsate Area, Clover Valley Fire School,
Western Highlands Landfill, Area 3, and 1969-1970 Landfill; and the Runaway Ditches and
Runway Fire School. Additional long-term remedial phases may be designated in the future,
based on results of a hazardous waste evaluation study, which is seeking to determine
whether contaminants are present in 26 separate areas.
Response Action Status
Area 5 (Hoffman Road Landfill) and Area 6 (Current Landfill): In 1990, the
Navy began conducting an investigation to determine the nature and the extent of
soil and groundwater contamination in Area 5 (Hoffman Road Landfill) and Area
6 (Current Landfill) of the site and the results of the investigation are expected in early 1993.
In April of 1992 an interim action was selected to pump and treat groundwater in Area 6;
implementation plans are underway.
Walker Storage Barn, Pesticide Rinsate Area, Clover Valley Fire School,
Western Highlands Landfill, Area 3, and 1969-1970 Landfill: The Navy will
conduct a combined investigation in these areas to determine the nature and the
extent of the contamination. Recommendations for cleanup of soil and groundwater are
expected to be completed in early 1993.
Runway Ditches and Runway Fire School: The Navy has developed a work
plan for an investigation into the nature and extent of contamination at the
Runway Ditches and the Runway Fire School. The study will evaluate cleanup
alternatives for soil, groundwater, and surface water. The study is expected to be completed
in mid-1994.
Site Facts: The Naval Air Station, Whidbey Island (Ault Field) facility is participating in the
Installation Restoration Program, a specially funded program established by the Department
of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate, and control the migration of hazardous
contaminants at military and other DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
The Navy is undertaking interim actions at Area 6 to prevent the further spread of a plume
of groundwater found to be contaminated with chlorinated solvents. These measures will
reduce the potential threat to public health and the environment while investigations leading
to the selection of final cleanup remedies for the entire site are underway.
NAVAL AIR STATION,
March 1992 74 WHIDBEY ISLAND (AULT FIELD)
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Site Repository
Oak Harbor Public Library, 3075 300th Avenue West, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
NAVAL AIR STATION,
WHIDBEY ISLAND (AULT FIELD) 75 March 1992
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NAVAL AIR STATION,
WHIDBEY ISLAND^
(SEAPLANE B
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WA6170090058
Site Description
REGION 10
Island County
Island
The Naval Air Station at Whidbey Island covers over 7,000 acres and consists of Ault Field
and the Seaplane Base, which are 5 miles apart. The Ault Field site also is on the NPL and is
being addressed in conjunction with the Seaplane Base. The station was commissioned in
1942, and its mission is to maintain and operate facilities and provide services and materials
in support of the Navy's aviation activities and units. The major waste generating activities at
the Seaplane Base involve aircraft and vehicle maintenance, paint and paint stripping, and
machine and boat shop activities. Wastes generated include solvents, zinc chromate, lead-
containing paint wastes, thinners, acid, and lead-based sealants. The Seaplane Base site
consists of five waste areas, including a landfill, salvage yard, and three uncontained spills,
covering 7 acres. The waste areas potentially affect both the shallow and the sea-level
aquifers. Local surface water bodies are used for recreation. A coastal wetland is within 200
feet of the site. The closest residence is 1/2 mile away. The population on the Seaplane Base
is approximately 4,000. The City of Oak Harbor and the Seaplane Base import fresh water
from the mainland via a pipeline as their primary source of water. Two backup wells exist for
emergency purposes.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater and surface water may be contaminated with heavy rnetals. The
sediments may contain heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Soil is contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and heavy metals.
Individuals who ingest or come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater,
surface water, sediments, or soils may suffer adverse health effects. Multiple leaks
and spills from fuel and oil tank storage areas may affect the surface waters of
Oak and Cresent Harbors. Wetlands also may be threatened.
76
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
landfill and other disposal areas.
Response Action Status
Landfill and Other Disposal Areas: The Navy is conducting investigations at
the landfill area, auto repair and paint shop, a disposal area, a Nose Hangar, and
a salvage yard to determine the nature and extent of the contamination. The
investigation began in 1991 and is scheduled to be completed in mid-1993. The results will be
used to evaluate cleanup alternatives. Independent of the ongoing remedial investigation, a
hazardous waste evaluation study is underway at a trichloroethylene (TCE) tank, a coal pile,
and two fuel farms at the Seaplane Base to determine if hazardous contaminants are present
that might require further study and cleanup.
Site Facts: The Naval Air Station, Whidbey Island (Seaplane Base) facility is participating in
the Installation Restoration Program, a specially funded program established by the
Department of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate, and control the migration of
hazardous contaminants at military and other DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
An initial evaluation of the Naval Air Station, Whidbey Island (Seaplane Base) site has
determined that no immediate actions are needed while the investigations leading to the
selection of final cleanup remedies are underway.
Site Repository
Oak Harbor Public Library, 3075 300th Avenue West, Oak Harbor, WA 98277
NAVAL AIR STATION, WHIDBEY ISLAND
(SEAPLANE BASE) 77 March 1992
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NAVAL UNDERSEA
WARFARE
ENGINEE
STATION
(4 WASTE A
WASHINGTON
EPAID#WA1170023419
EPA REGION 10
Kitsap County
Keyport
Other Names:
port Torpedo Station
Site Description
The Naval Undersea Warfare Engineering Station (NUWES) at Keyport was acquired in
1913 to develop a still-water torpedo testing range. The 200-acre site consists of six separate
areas on a peninsula 15 miles west of Seattle. The waste disposal areas are: the Keyport
Landfill, the Van Meter Road Spill/Drum Storage Area, Sludge Disposal Area, Plating Shop
Waste/Oil Spill Area, Otto Fuel Leak, and Liberty Bay Outfalls/Shoreline. Wastes containing
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals were disposed of or spilled at each of
these areas. At the latter area, wastes were discharged directly into the water. The station is
involved in a wide variety of activities, including the maintenance of torpedoes; storage of
fuel and ordnance; and production functions, such as welding, plating, painting, carpentry, and
sheet metal work. Approximately 3,500 people work at the facility. There are 135 private
wells and 22 public water supply wells drawing from the surficial aquifer within 3 miles of the
site. The wells serve about 230 households. The unlined landfill is built on a salt marsh and
may be in contact with the groundwater. The Van Meter area is near an intermittent creek
that flows into a lagoon used for fishing and swimming. Liberty Bay and Dogfish Bay are
used for recreational activities and for commercial shellfishing.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 10/04/89
78
March 1992
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Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and
volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Sediments and soils contain heavy metals.
Contaminants identified in shellfish include semi-VOCs and metals. People may be
exposed to contaminants through direct contact with or ingestion of contaminated
groundwater, sediments, and soils. The ingestion of bioaccumulated contaminants
in the shellfish also may pose a health risk.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two-phases: an initial action and a single long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Action: Removal of chromium contaminated soils from the Plating
Shop/Waste Oil Spill Area is expected to begin in mid-1992.
Entire Site: An investigation to determine the type and extent of contamination
began in 1990 and is expected to be completed in mid-1993. At that time,
recommendations will be made on alternatives for final site cleanup.
Site Facts: The Naval Undersea Warfare Engineering Station is participating in the
Installation Restoration Program, a specially funded program established by the Department
of Defense (DOD) in 1978 to identify, investigate, and control the migration of hazardous
contaminants at military and other DOD facilities.
Environmental Progress
The planned removal of contaminated soils will reduce the threat to public health and the
environment while the investigation leading to the selection of final cleanup remedies is
underway.
NAVAL UNDERSEA WARFARE ENGINEERING
STATION (4 WASTE AREAS)
79
March 1992
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Site Repository
Yakima Regional Library, 102 North Third Street, Yakima, WA 98901
March 1992
80
NAVAL UNDERSEA WARFARE ENGINEERING
STATION (4 WASTE AREAS)
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NORTH MARKET
STREET
WASHINGTON
EPAID#WAD000641548
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
1 1/2 miles north of Spokane
Other Names:
Spokane Term.
fosco Corp. (Spokane Terminal)
Site Description
The 50-acre North Market Street site, a bulk storage tank farm for petroleum products, is
1 1/2 miles north of Spokane. Industrial activities since the 1920s have resulted in site
contamination from petroleum-derived chemicals. The site operated as an oil refinery until it
was decommissioned in 1953. Before 1970, lead-contaminated wastes were disposed of on the
ground and in holes. An unlined waste oil lagoon was located in the northwestern corner of
the site and extended onto the adjacent property. The lagoon has been covered with clean
soil and fenced. The aboveground petroleum storage tanks are surrounded by soil berms. A
6-foot-high chain-link fence topped with barbed wire surrounds the site. The site overlies the
Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, designated as a sole source of drinking water. Soil
overlying the aquifer is highly permeable, facilitating the movement of contaminants into the
groundwater. Groundwater within 3 miles of the site provides drinking water to over 200,000
people and is used for irrigating croplands. Approximately 228 private wells are located within
3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soil are contaminated with petroleum compounds and volatile
organic compounds (VOCs). Soil also contains lead. Exposure to contaminants may
result from ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater and soil.
81
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: As part of a site investigation, the State constructed monitoring wells
and analyzed groundwater from on-site and off-site wells and soil from test pits
and borings in the lagoon area. This investigation will define the contaminants of
concern and will result in recommendations for the final groundwater and soil cleanup
remedies. It is anticipated to be completed in 1993.
Environmental Progress
An initial evaluation of the site has determined that no immediate actions are necessary at
the North Market Street site while an investigation leading to the selection of final cleanup
remedies is underway.
Site Repository
Contact the Region 10 Superfund Community Relations Office.
March 1992
82
NORTH MARKET STREET
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NORTHSIDE
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980511778
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
Spokane
Other Names:
of Spokane Indian Trails Landfill
Site Description
The Northside Landfill is located on a 345-acre parcel of land in northwestern Spokane. The
site was established as a city landfill in 1931 and is still active as the largest refuse disposal
operation in Spokane County. The site was used for open burning until the mid-1950s, when
open burning was replaced with shallow excavation and fill operations. In the 1960s, the
process of covering refuse-filled trenches and canyons with soil was used. In the mid-1970s,
excavation was limited to 20 feet below grade, using an area fill technique. The existing
landfill stopped receiving refuse in late 1991. The future use of this site as a sanitary landfill
depends on construction of new waste disposal cells resulting from new State requirements
for landfills. It is anticipated that Northside will be used as a demolition waste and incinerator
by-pass disposal site. Contaminants have filtered into the aquifer beneath the site. The
aquifer is the sole source of drinking water for the City of Spokane. Approximately 65
residents live in the area of the groundwater plume.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and municipal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Several nearby domestic water wells are contaminated with organic solvents
including tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and chloroform. On-site sludge contains
trichloroethylene (TCE) and PCE. Potential health risks exist for individuals who
ingest or come into direct contact with contaminated groundwater or sludge.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
83
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1983, the City of Spokane extended municipal water to
homes with contaminated wells and later to the entire area northwest of the
landfill. All residences within the contaminant plume area have been provided
with alternate water supplies. The City is regularly monitoring on-site wells and a number of
off-site wells and has determined the location and direction of the flow of the plume.
Entire Site: In 1989, the EPA selected a remedy for the landfill that includes:
closure of the existing landfill units as soon as possible; installation of a cap after
closure; treatment of the groundwater to reduce the amount of contaminants
migrating from the landfill; continuation of groundwater monitoring; installation of a gas
extraction system to control landfill gas; and deed restrictions to protect the landfill, cap, and
monitoring wells from unauthorized access. Early in 1992, the designs for the cleanup of the
site were completed; construction is expected to begin in summer of 1992. The entire cleanup
is expected to be completed in 1994. In December 1991, the refuse disposal process for the
County was changed to waste incineration. A new waste cell disposal area now accepts non-
combustible materials. Ash from the incinerator is being taken off site for disposal.
Site Facts: The EPA and the City of Spokane signed a Consent Order in 1988, requiring
the City to complete an investigation of the Northside Landfill.
Environmental Progress
The provision of an alternate water supply to affected residences and the operation of the
incinerator and the new waste cell disposal area have reduced the risks from contamination
of the Northside Landfill while final cleanup remedies are underway.
Site Repository
City of Spokane, Engineering Services Division, West 808 Spokane Falls Boulevard,
Room 318, Spokane, WA 99201
March 1992 84 NORTHSIDE LANDFILL
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NORTHWEST
TRANSFOR
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD98083397
A REGION 10
Whatcom County
miles south of Everson
Other Names:
Transformer - Salvage Yard
Site Description
The Northwest Transformer site covers 1 1/2 acres in Whatcom County. The company used
the site as a salvage yard from 1958 to 1985 and carried out other activities on site, including
dismantling and reclaiming equipment, burning casings for transformers in an open concrete
burn pit, burning waste oils in a space heater, and draining transformer oils into a seepage
pit. Frequently, chemicals including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) spilled and leaked into
site soil. In 1985, the Whatcom County Health Department detected PCBs in private wells
near the site. The site is located in a rural/residential area where berries, dairy products, and
Christmas trees are produced. Grain is cultivated to the south of the salvage yard.
Approximately 700 acres of agricultural land are irrigated with groundwater within 3 miles of
the site. The nearest residence is approximately 300 feet away, and about 27 private wells are
located within 1/2 of the site. Approximately 200 people live within a mile of the salvage yard.
The Northwest Transformer (South Harkness Street) site also is on the NPL.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
PCBs have been found in the soil. Individuals may be exposed to contaminants
through ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated soil.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: emergency actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
85
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Emergency Actions: In 1985, the EPA conducted an emergency action
involving the removal of contaminated soil, liquids, and structures from the site.
This action removed most of the contamination at the salvage yard. The EPA
constructed a chain-link fence around the site and sampled the soils and groundwater.
Transformers were drained and rinsed with diesel fuel above a large water tank.
Approximately 6,600 gallons of contaminated liquids were transported off site and incinerated.
About 1,400 cubic yards of contaminated soil and debris were excavated and disposed of at a
federally approved facility.
Entire Site: In 1991, the EPA amended the previously selected remedy to clean
up the salvage yard since it was determined that less waste remains on site than
originally estimated. The new remedy involves: excavating, consolidating, and
removing approximately 400 cubic yards of the most contaminated soil for off-site
incineration; removing an additional 1,200 to 1,300 cubic yards of less contaminated soil for
off-site disposal at an approved landfill; capping the site with clean soil; instituting land use
restrictions as necessary; and monitoring on-site groundwater. The cleanup design for these
actions is underway. Cleanup activities are expected to begin in late 1992 or early 1993.
Site Facts: In January 1990, a number of potentially responsible parties signed an
Administrative Order with the EPA. Under this Order, the parties completed a study to
determine the treatability of waste. In October of 1991, approximately 100 potentially
responsible parties signed a Consent Decree agreeing to cleanup site contamination.
Environmental Progress
The EPA's emergency actions involving excavating and removing contaminated soil, debris,
and liquids from the Northwest Transformer site have reduced the threat to public health and
the environment while the site awaits final cleanup actions.
Site Repository
Everson Community Library, 104 Kirsh Drive, Everson, WA 98247
March 1992 86 NORTHWEST TRANSFORMER
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NORTHWEST
TRANSFORM
(SOUTH HAR
STREET)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD027315621
Site Description
REGION 10
tjatcom County
Everson
The Northwest Transformer Service Company operated a transformer, reclamation, storage,
and manufacturing facility in 1958 on a 1-acre site in downtown Everson. The company
transferred its storage and salvage operations to the downtown site in 1985 from its Mission
and Pole Roads salvage yard. Northwest Transformer stored transformers, drums, and bulk
tanks outdoors in an unpaved yard at the site. A Washington State Department of Ecology
inspection in 1985 detected high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in on-site soils.
The company ceased operations at the South Harkness Street site by 1987. The soil is
permeable, and the groundwater is shallow in some places at the site. These conditions could
facilitate the movement of contaminants into the groundwater. Over 10,000 people use wells
within 3 miles of the site for drinking water and irrigation. Surface water also is used for
irrigation. Approximately 2,200 people live within 3 miles of the site. The Northwest
Transformer salvage yard site also is on the NPL.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
On-site soil and buildings are contaminated with PCBs and heavy metals including
arsenic, cadmium, and lead. People may be exposed to contaminants through
accidental ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated soil or building
contents.
87
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed through a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of
the entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: An investigation of the site to determine the nature and extent of
the contamination is scheduled to begin in 1992. Based on the results of the
investigation, final cleanup remedies will be recommended.
Environmental Progress
An initial evaluation of the Northwest Transformer (South Harkness Street) site has
determined that no immediate actions are needed while site investigations leading to the
selection of a final cleanup remedy are underway.
Site Repository
Everson Community Library, 104 Kirsh Drive, Everson, WA 98247
March 1992
88
NORTHWEST TRANSFORMER
(SOUTH HARKNESS STREET)
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OLD INLAND Pffi
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980982551
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Spokane County
Spokane
Other Names:
Spokane Steel Foundry
The Old Inland Pit site is located in Spokane and covers 10 acres of a former gravel mine. It
is part of a larger site shared by the Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Company. The Inland
Asphalt Company used the old gravel mine to dispose of solid waste in 1977. From 1978 to
1983, the Spokane Steel Foundry, located directly across the street from the site, deposited
approximately 180 tons of baghouse dust in the mine. Wastes in the pit contain heavy metals
and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The pit is no longer active, and the site is fenced.
The pit overlies the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, the sole source of drinking
water for more than 30,000 people located within 3 miles of the site. Geologic conditions
around the pit facilitate the movement of contaminants into the groundwater. The area
surrounding the site includes industrial activities, a commercial district, and residential areas.
The nearest residence is approximately 1/4 mile away, and about 10,000 people live within 3
miles of the site. The wells for the Spokane Industrial Park are within 2,000 feet of the site.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
Soil contains heavy metals including hexavalent and trivalent chromium and
organic solvents such as methylene chloride and trichloroethylene (TCE).
Individuals risk exposure to hazardous chemicals through accidental ingestion of or
direct contact with contaminated soil. Low levels of TCE were found in the
groundwater under the site.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
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March 1992
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Response Action Status
Entire Site: The State completed initial investigations of the nature and extent of
contamination at the Old Inland Pit. This investigation revealed low levels of
contamination in soils and groundwater under the site. Based on the results of the
investigation, additional studies may be conducted, and alternatives for site cleanup will be
recommended.
Environmental Progress
An initial evaluation of the Old Inland Pit site has determined that no immediate actions are
needed while site investigations are completed.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Eastern Region, North 4601 Monroe Street, Suite 100,
Spokane, WA 99205
March 1992
90
OLD INLAND PIT
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PACIFIC CAR &
FOUNDRY C
WASHINGTON
EPAID#WAD009249210
Site Description
PA REGION 10
King County
Renton
Other Names:
PACCAR
Pacific Car & Foundry Co. (PACCAR) manufactured trucks, winches, military equipment,
railroad cars, and anodes on 82 acres in an industrial area of Renton from 1907 to 1988.
Until 1964, the facility deposited waste materials, including foundry sand, wood, metal, paints,
solvents, and oils in a marshy area underlain by peat and clay. The wastes are estimated to
have been buried up to 7 feet below the surface in this landfill. The landfill has been covered
with sand and gravel. In 1986, heavy metals were detected in on-site soil and in shallow
groundwater. The City of Renton uses wells drilled in an aquifer connected to the
contaminated shallow aquifer. Approximately 37,200 people obtain drinking water from
municipal wells within 3 miles of the site. A ditch on the property drains into the Cedar River
and John's Creek. The Cedar River flows into Lake Washington, which is used for
recreational activities.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
Contaminants identified in the groundwater include heavy metals, petroleum
products, and solvents. Soil contains heavy metals, petroleum products,
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
The potential for exposure to contaminants exists through ingestion of or direct
contact with contaminated groundwater and soil.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a single long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
91
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1987, PACCAR, Inc. excavated contaminated soil
containing hydrocarbons and lead and transported it to a federally approved
hazardous waste facility.
Entire Site: In 1991, the State selected the final cleanup remedy, which includes
excavation and treatment of soils containing high levels of heavy metals or PAHs,
and excavation and off-site disposal of soils containing PCBs. Soils containing
heavy metals will be treated by stabilization and soils containing PAHs will be treated by
bioremediation. Soils containing low levels of contamination will be covered with clean earth
to prevent direct contact. Groundwater contamination is expected to decrease as a result of
the soil cleanup and will be monitored until contamination levels meet established drinking
water standards. Site cleanup activities are expected to begin in mid-1993.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree between the State and PACCAR was signed in 1989, under
which the company agreed to investigate site contamination. A second Consent Decree
between the State and PACCAR was signed in 1991, under which the company agreed to
clean up the site under State supervision.
Environmental Progress
Excavating and disposing of contaminated soil have reduced the threat of exposure to the
public and the environment from the Pacific Car & Foundry Co. site while final cleanup
designs are underway.
Site Repository
Renton Public Library, 100 Mill Avenue, South, Renton, WA 98055
March 1992
92
PACIFIC CAR & FOUNDRY CO.
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PASCO SANITA
LANDFILL
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD991281874
EPA REGION 10
Franklin County
1 1/2 miles northeast of Pasco
Other Names:
Larry Dietrich
Resource Recovery Corp.
Phillips Petroleum Co - Coulee Plant
Site Description
The Pasco Sanitary Landfill (PSL) is an active landfill located on 280 acres of land 1 1/2 miles
northeast of Pasco. PSL operated as an open burning dump from 1956 to 1971. Municipal
wastes were dumped on the surface and were periodically burned. In 1971, PSL was
converted to a sanitary landfill. The operations permit for the sanitary landfill expires in mid-
1992 but the owners have requested permission to continue operations. A portion of the site
was leased in 1972 and operated as a regional hazardous waste disposal site. The site
accepted hazardous wastes until 1981. More than 47,000 drums of various hazardous wastes
were deposited in the leased portions of the landfill. Wastes included sludges, paints, resins,
herbicide manufacturing wastes, caustic chemicals, and empty pesticide containers. Prior to
burial, liquid wastes were dried in lined and unlined lagoons. A trailer park is located
approximately 3,000 feet southwest of the site, and residents obtain drinking water from the
municipal water supply. An estimated 10,600 people live within 3 miles of the site. The
confluence of the Snake River and the Columbia River is 2 1/2 miles south of the site.
Groundwater within 3 miles of the site is used by over 1,000 people for drinking and irrigating
almost 10,000 acres of land. One mobile home trailer and one drinking water well are located
on the site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
trichloroethylene (TCE), toluene, and xylenes. People who ingest or come into
direct contact with contaminated groundwater may be at risk.
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March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: The State is scheduled to begin an investigation to determine the
nature and extent of site contamination in 1992. Once the investigation is
completed, recommendations will be made for the final cleanup remedies.
Site Facts: In 1986, the Washington State Department of Ecology issued an Administrative
Order requiring Pasco to monitor on-site wells on a quarterly basis.
Environmental Progress
An initial evaluation of the Pasco Sanitary Landfill site has determined that no immediate
actions are required while site investigations are being planned. The facility is monitoring
groundwater contamination under the direction of the State.
Site Repository
Washington Department of Ecology, Eastern Region, North 4601 Monroe Street, Suite 100,
Spokane, WA 99205
March 1992
94
PASCO SANITARY LANDFILL
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PESTICIDE LAB
(YAKIMA)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WAD120513957
EPA REGION 10
Yakima County
Yakima
Other Names:
USDA. Yakima Agriculture
Research Lab
Pesticide Pit - Yakima
Site Description
The Pesticide Lab (Yakima) is an agricultural research laboratory that covers approximately
40 acres in Yakima. The site is leased by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Over
the years, wastes from the pesticide storage/formulation/mixing facility were discharged into a
septic tank disposal system at the site. Approximately 10,000 people live within a mile of the
site, and about 60,000 people use the groundwater for drinking water.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
A drain pipe connecting the septic system and the storage building could have
posed a threat to groundwater. People who ingested or came into direct contact
with potentially contaminated groundwater may have been at risk.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
95
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Entire Site: The Pesticide Lab (Yakima) site is an active facility; therefore, the
site was addressed under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
A sampling program was begun in 1990 to determine the extent of groundwater
and soil contamination at the site. This sampling indicated the need to remove a septic tank
and drain line. As a result, the septic tank and a drain line which connects the septic tank to
the storage building were removed in 1992. All cleaning goals have been met.
Environmental Progress
Removing the septic tank and drain line has eliminated the threat of exposure to hazardous
materials at the Pesticide Lab (Yakima) site.
Site Repository
Not established.
March 1992
96
PESTICIDE LAB (YAKIMA)
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QUEEN CITY F
WASHINGTO
EPAID# WAD980511
REGION 10
King County
> 1/2 miles north of Maple Valley
Other Names:
Queen City Disposal Site
Four-Tek
Site Description
The Queen City Farms site is a 320-acre parcel of land located approximately 2 1/2 miles
north of Maple Valley. The site includes a wooded area, three industrial waste disposal
ponds, a composting facility, a gravel pit, and Queen City Lake. Three ponds were used for
the disposal of wastes from 1955 to 1964. In 1980, the ponds were sampled by the EPA, and
heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were found in the water, sludge, and
sediment. The area surrounding the site is semi-rural. Approximately 7,800 people live within
3 miles of the site. About 105 public and private wells are located within 1/2 mile of Queen
City Farms. The King County Cedar Hills Landfill is located immediately to the north of the
site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/08/83
Final Date: 09/21/84
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater monitoring wells contain VOCs such as trichloroethylene
(TCE) and dichloroethylene (DCE). Arsenic was detected in residential wells. Soil
is contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and metals. Sludge and
surface water contain TCE. Individuals may be exposed to contaminants through
ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater, soil, sludge, or
surface water.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
97
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Between 1985 and 1986, Queen City Farms excavated,
solidified, contained, and safely removed approximately 1 million gallons of liquid
wastes and more than 16,000 cubic yards of solidified material from the site. In
1985 and 1986, the potentially responsible parties installed an initial upgradient water
diversion system; processed wastes in ponds 1, 2, and 3; installed the final upgradient water
diversion system; and capped, graded, and revegetated the site. In 1988, soil and drum
fragments were taken to a permitted hazardous waste disposal facility. In 1990, approximately
200 cubic yards of contaminated soil were removed from the site. Shallow groundwater is
being monitored as part of the 1990 removal action.
Entire Site: An investigation determining the type and extent of site
contamination is underway. The investigation is scheduled for conclusion in 1993.
Site Facts: In 1985, Queen City Farms and the Boeing Co. reached legal agreements with
the EPA and the Washington State Department of Ecology to undertake initial cleanup
measures at the site. In 1988, both potentially responsible parties agreed to conduct a
comprehensive investigation at the site. In January of 1991, King County completed an
investigation of the adjoining Cedar Hill Landfill to determine whether or not it was
contributing to contamination present at the Queen City Farms site. The investigations found
that the Cedar Hill Landfill was not responsible for contamination at the Queen City Farms
site.
Environmental Progress
The initial measures of removing liquid wastes, soils, and drum fragments and installing a
water diversion system and a cap have significantly reduced the threat of exposure to
hazardous materials at the Queen City Farms site while an investigation leading to the
selection of final cleanup remedies continues. An off-site private drinking water well study
was completed in 1992. The study confirmed that no site-related groundwater contamination
exists in the off-site wells.
Site Repository
King County Library System, Maple Valley Public Library, 23730 Maple Valley Road,
Maple Valley, WA 98038
March 1992 98 QUEEN CITY FARMS
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SEATTLE MUNICIPAL
LANDFILL
HIGHLANDS)
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980639462
PA REGION 10
King County
Kent
Other Names:
tent-Highlands Disposal Site
Military Road Landfill
City of Seattle, Kent Highlands
Disposal Site
Site Description
The Seattle Municipal Landfill (Kent Highlands) site is in Kent, approximately 14 miles south
of Seattle. From 1968 to 1986, the City of Seattle leased the site and filled about 60 acres of
a 90-acre ravine located on a hillside above the Green River with refuse. In addition to
municipal wastes from Kent and Seattle, the landfill accepted sand-blasting grit, industrial
sludges, and other industrial wastes. In 1984, contaminants were detected in on-site
monitoring wells. Leachate seeps on the eastern side of the landfill mix with runoff from the
landfill and are routed through drainage lines to settling ponds discharging into the Green
River. Approximately 12,700 people live within 1 mile of the site. Over 18,000 people obtain
drinking water from public wells within 3 miles of the landfill.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and municipal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Landfill gas contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including vinyl chloride
and trichloroethylene (TCE). Groundwater is contaminated with heavy metals and
nitrate. Leachate contains VOCs and heavy metals. People may be exposed to
contaminants through ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated
groundwater and leachate, or through inhalation of landfill gas. Leachate from the
site eventually discharges into the Green River, which is used for spawning and
salmon raising.
99
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Initial actions taken at the landfill include the installation
of a leachate collection and treatment system, installation of a surface water
drainage control system, installation of a landfill gas control system, and
construction of a fence. Improvements in the landfill gas control system were made in 1990
and 1991. A temporary cap was installed, and the site was vegetated.
Entire Site: The City of Seattle began an investigation in 1987 to determine the
type and extent of site contamination. The investigation is scheduled for
completion in mid-1992. At its conclusion, recommendations will be made for final
site cleanup alternatives.
Site Facts: A Consent Agreement was signed in 1987, in which the City of Seattle agreed to
conduct an investigation of the site.
Environmental Progress
The installation of the leachate collection and treatment system, surface water drainage
system, and landfill gas control system has reduced the potential for exposure to contaminants
at the Seattle Municipal Landfill while an investigation leading to the selection of the final
cleanup remedy continues.
Site Repository
King County Library System, Kent Library, 232 South Fourth Street, Kent, WA 98032
SEATTLE MUNICIPAL LANDFILL
March 1992 100 (KENT HIGHLANDS)
-------
SILVER MOU
MINE
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD980722789
EPA REGION 10
Okanogan County
Horse Springs Coulee
Site Description
The Silver Mountain Mine site is an abandoned silver and gold mine located in Horse Springs
Coulee, approximately 8 miles northwest of Tonasket. The site covers 5 acres and was
operated sporadically from 1928 to the 1960s. In the early 1980s, cyanide was used to extract
metals from mine tailings. In this process, a solution of sodium cyanide was pumped over the
tailings and drained into a collection basin where metals were extracted from the solution. By
1983, the site was abandoned, and the mine tailings and holding basin, which contained
cyanide-contaminated water, were left behind. The nearest residence is approximately 3 miles
away, and fewer than five people live within 3 miles. Private wells are located within 3 miles
and are used for domestic purposes, irrigation, and livestock watering.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Metal contaminants were detected in on-site groundwater. The leachate pit was
contaminated with cyanide and arsenic. Individuals could have been exposed to
pollutants through ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater
and leachate.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
101
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1985, the Washington State Department of Ecology
stabilized the site by removing contaminated water from the pond, capping the
heap and pond with a plastic liner, and fencing the site.
Entire Site: The remedy selected in 1990 to address the site included:
consolidating the mine tailings; capping the tailings; fencing the area; and providing
a clean well for domestic stock watering. Construction was completed in 1992. The
entrance to the mine also will be closed for safety reasons. All cleanup goals have been met;
however, the site will be revegetated in early 1993.
Site Facts: The Silver Mountain Mine site was placed on the NPL because it is a non-coal
site with mining operations that occurred after August 3, 1977, the enactment date of the
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA). Thus, it is neither regulated by
SMCRA nor eligible for cleanup funds from the SMCRA Abandoned Mine Land
Reclamation Program.
Environmental Progress
Removing contaminated pond water, capping the pond, heap pile, and tailings, and fencing
the site have eliminated the threat to public health and the environment from the Silver
Mountain Mine site.
Site Repository
Okanogan County Health District, Environmental Health Section, 237 North 4th Street,
Okanogan, WA 98840
March 1992
102
SILVER MOUNTAIN MINE
-------
TOFTDAHL
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD98072:
EPA REGION 10
Clark County
Brush Prairie
Site Description
The 15-acre Toftdahl Drums site, located in Brush Prairie, was used in the early 1970s to
clean used drums for resale. The three main areas where hazardous substances were used
included a drum cleaning area, an initial burial trench, and a final drum burial area. Between
100 to 200 drums containing industrial waste were brought to the site from a plywood
manufacturer. About 50 of the drums were crushed, placed in a trench, and covered with dirt
because they could not be cleaned. Between 1978 and 1982, 38 of the drums from the trench
were moved to a local landfill. In 1983, EPA site investigations revealed six badly rusted and
leaking drums, which were subsequently removed. The area surrounding the site is rural-
residential. Approximately 5,770 people live within 3 miles of the site. The surface of the site
slopes downward to a spring and a small westerly flowing tributary of Morgan Creek.
Site Responsibility: The site was addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Deleted Date: 12/23/88
Threats and Contaminants
ZGJ
On-site surface water, groundwater, and soil were contaminated with heavy metals
and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Cleanup actions have removed any potential
health threats that were present at the site.
Cleanup Approach
The site was addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase that
focused on cleanup of the entire site.
103
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1983, the EPA sampled the six leaking drums and placed
them in an excavation trench lined with polyethylene. The drums were capped
with a sheet of polyethylene, excavated soil, and a final sheet of polyethylene. A
6-foot fence was installed around the excavated area (final burial area). Three additional
drums were found in a second excavation and were placed within the fenced area. In 1984,
five potential burial locations were identified outside the fence and one area inside the fence.
Further investigation of the areas outside the fence uncovered metal debris and paint-chip-
like debris. This debris was addressed in the subsequent cleanup action. Inside the fenced
area, 20 pits were excavated.
Entire Site: The State removed and disposed of five crushed drums, parts of
additional drums, and 40 cubic yards of contaminated soils. Contaminated soils
were placed in polypropylene bags. All contaminated materials were disposed of
off site at a federally approved hazardous waste facility. Sampling and monitoring of private
wells will continue until 1998 to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the cleanup.
Environmental Progress
All cleanup actions at the site have been completed. It no longer poses a threat to public
health or the environment. The Toftdahl Drums site was deleted from the NPL in 1988.
Annual monitoring by the Washington State Department of Ecology continues to confirm
that no contamination is linked to the Toftdahl Drums site.
Site Repository
Information is no longer available.
March 1992
104
TOFTDAHL DRUMS
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TULALIP
WASHINGTON ^^!^>7rVl Ma*sville
EPA ID# WAD980639256
Site Description
Tulalip Landfill is a 146-acre site located on the Tulalip Indian Reservation. The reservation
is surrounded by Ebey Slough to the north, Steamboat Slough to the south, and Possession
Sound to the west. Surface water from each of these water bodies flows into northern Puget
Sound, a Federally-designated National Estuary which is a recognized habitat for salmon,
shellfish, and some endangered species. In 1964, the Tulalip Tribe leased land to the Seattle
Disposal Company which deposited an estimated 4 million cubic yards of municipal, industrial,
and hospital waste on site. In 1979, the landfill was closed in compliance with a Federal
Consent Decree. In 1987, the EPA issued a modified permit under the National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requiring the Tulalip Tribe to collect all leachate
generated by the site (approximately 10 to 90 million gallons per year) and transport it for
off-site treatment. The Tribe has not complied with the permit. In December of 1990, a
NPDES inspection conducted by the EPA revealed that the site was receiving demolition
debris, including dredge spoils and treated lumber, not previously approved for disposal. The
Tribe has discontinued the disposal of all demolition debris at the EPA's request. An
estimated 7,800 people obtain their drinking water from private and municipal wells that are
within 4 miles of the site. The nearest drinking water source is within a mile of the site.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
party actions.
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater, wetland water, and slough water are contaminated with heavy
metals, including lead, copper, chromium, and cadmium, in excess of both the
EPA's Maximum Contaminant Levels established under the Safe Drinking Water
Act, and the marine Ambient Water Quality Criteria established under the Clean
Water Act. On-site leachate and pooled water sources contain elevated levels of
heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) including toluene and xylene, and semi-VOCs. In addition, leachate,
pooled water, and slough samples are plagued by numerous strains of opportunistic
pathogens. Due to the infiltration of estuarine water that is rich in nutrients and
dissolved oxygen, these pathogens are resistant to several antibiotics and can
survive for years. Sensitive wetland areas, local fisheries, and wildlife inhabiting the
Puget Sound area are threatened by contaminants at the site.
105 March 1992
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two phases: immediate actions and one long-term remedial
phase focusing on the cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The EPA has fenced the site and posted signs to
discourage site entry and fishing in nearby waters.
Entire Site: Investigations to determine the nature and extent of contamination
and to identify cleanup alternatives are expected to begin when the site is officially
listed on the NPL.
Site Facts: The landfill was closed in 1977 as a result of a Federal Consent Decree.
Environmental Progress
Discontinuing the disposal of demolition debris at the Tulalip Landfill has reduced the
possibility of continued contamination. Fencing the site and posting signs have also reduced
the possibility of exposure to contaminants while initial investigations are being planned.
Site Repository
Not established.
March 1992
106
TULALIP LANDFILL
-------
VANCOUVER
STATION #
CONTAMINA
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD988475158
Site Description
EPA REGION 10
Clark County
Vancouver
Vancouver Water Station #4 is located in the City of Vancouver in southwest Washington.
In 1988, the State Department of Health sampled Water Station #4 under guidelines
provided by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and discovered tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
in excess of the Federal standards. Water Station #4 is one of several water stations that
blend output to supply drinking water to approximately 108,000 people. Station #4 was taken
out of service in October of 1988. Subsequent sampling confirmed PCE contamination in the
well field and nearby private wells, some of which supply domestic water. Historical uses of
PCE in the area include several dry cleaners, however, the actual source of contamination
has not been confirmed.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and local actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/29/91
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with PCE. Accidental ingestion of contaminated
groundwater could pose a health risk.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two phases: immediate actions and one long-term remedial
phase focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
107
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Water Station #4 was taken out of service in October of
1988.
Entire Site: The City of Vancouver is conducting extensive investigations into the
nature, extent, and source of PCE contamination. The study has examined soil gas,
groundwater, and existing and newly installed monitoring wells. PCE was not
detected in any soil samples collected from the monitoring well borings, however, high levels
of PCE were discovered in the groundwater of some monitoring wells. This study also has
investigated historic land use in an effort to identify potential sources of PCE. Dry cleaners
are a suspected source, but further investigation will be necessary to confirm the actual
sources of contamination. All investigative activities are expected to be completed in 1994, at
which time the EPA will select remedies for the final cleanup of the site.
Environmental Progress
The closing of Water Station #4 has protected customers from known contamination while
investigations of other potential sources are being completed.
Site Repository
Not established.
March 1992
108
VANCOUVER WATER STATION
#4 CONTAMINATION
-------
WESTERN
PROCESS
CO., INC.
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD009487513
EPA REGION 10
King County
Kent Valley
Site Description
The Western Processing Company, Inc. site covers 13 acres, approximately 20 miles south of
Seattle, in the highly industrialized Kent Valley. Originally, the company reprocessed animal
by-products and brewer's yeast. In the 1960s, the business expanded to include recycling,
reclaiming, treating, and disposing of industrial wastes. The wastes included waste oils,
electroplating wastes, waste pickle liquor, battery acids, flue dust from steel mills, pesticides,
spent solvents, and zinc dross. From 1961 until 1983, approximately 300 businesses
transported their industrial wastes to the Western Processing site. The company stored
approximately 4,000 to 6,000 drums on the site. The property also contained 72 bulk tanks,
open waste piles, 10 lagoons, transformers, and other containers. The company was closed
permanently in 1983. Approximately 10,000 people live within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/01/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
L\
Contaminants found in groundwater and sediments included phenols and heavy
metals. Soils contained volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs), phenols, and metals. VOCs and metals were detected in surface
water. Individuals may have been exposed to contamination through accidental
ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater, sediments, soils, or
surface water.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on controlling the source of the contamination and cleaning up the entire site.
109
March 1992
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Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1983, the EPA stabilized the site by removing 127 drums
of PCB liquids; 1,944 cubic yards of solidified paint sludges; 24,700 gallons of
recycled solvents; and 447,450 gallons of mixed contaminated liquids. The state
also installed a stormwater runoff system. The EPA capped a material pile with an
impermeable, flexible cover and regraded portions of the site. In 1984, construction of a lined
impoundment for stormwater collection and treatment was completed.
Source Control: In 1984, the EPA selected a remedy to control the source of
contamination by: removing all bulk liquids, drummed liquids, and waste piles to a
federally approved facility for disposal or incineration; removing and disposing of
all transformers and substation equipment; dismantling, demolishing, and removing all on-site
buildings and bulk storage tanks; using a portable stormwater treatment plant on site; and
monitoring air quality. The potentially responsible parties, under EPA monitoring, completed
these cleanup actions in 1984.
Entire Site: In 1985, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the entire site by:
excavating and disposing of highly contaminated soils, drums, and buried wastes in
Area 1; excavating, or cleaning and plugging all utility and process lines in Area 1;
capping all remaining surface soils; maintaining caps; excavating utility manholes/Vaults near
the site; removing or decontaminating the lead-contaminated house in Area 8; constructing a
groundwater extraction and pre-treatment plant; constructing, operating, and maintaining a
stormwater control system; monitoring Mill Creek, the east drain, groundwater, and the
groundwater extraction system performance; excavating contaminated sediments in Mill
Creek; conducting bench-scale tests of soil solidification techniques and conducting pilot-scale
tests of in-place solidification technologies; and performing supplemental studies if
contamination of the shallow groundwater spreads beyond the zone now contaminated, or
significant regional contamination is detected. Approximately 25,000 cubic yards of
contaminated soils were removed from the site by the potentially responsible parties in 1987.
The wastewater treatment plant began operating in 1988. By April 1992, over 363,000,000
gallons of contaminated groundwater had been treated. Additional equipment, space, and
staff have been added to the on-site laboratory. Extensive monitoring, including sampling of
the extraction wells, treatment plant influent and effluent, and Mill Creek and the East
Drain, is continuing. In addition, several wells outside the site are being monitored. Cleanup
activities were completed late in 1991 and monitoring activities will continue for an additional
5 to 7 years.
Site Facts: In 1983, the EPA issued an order to Western Processing to cease operations due
to contamination problems. In 1986, the EPA and Western Processing Trustees signed a
Consent Decree for the subsurface cleanup that required groundwater extraction and
treatment for a minimum of 5 to 7 years, until performance standards have been achieved.
March 1992 110 WESTERN PROCESSING CO., INC.
-------
Environmental Progress
The immediate and final cleanup activities completed at the Western Processing Co., Inc. site
have eliminated contamination. There no longer is a threat to people or the environment.
Site Repository
EPA Region 10 Library, 1200 Sixth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101
WESTERN PROCESSING CO., INC.
111
March 1992
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WYCKOFF CO./
EAGLE HAR
WASHINGTON
EPA ID# WAD009248295
EPA REGION 10
Kitsap County
Bainbridge Island
Site Description
The Wyckoff Co./Eagle Harbor site is located on Bainbridge Island. The site occupies
approximately 40 acres at the mouth of Eagle Harbor. A wood treatment facility has
operated at this location since the early 1900s. This facility and a former shipyard are the
major sources of widespread sediment contamination in the adjacent 500-acre harbor. In the
past, wood was pressure-treated with solutions containing pentachlorophenol (PCP) or
creosote to prevent the growth of sapstain and mold fungi. Until 1981, over 23 million gallons
of wastewater were discharged to a seepage basin, and sludge was buried on site. In 1981, a
closed-loop effluent system was installed. In 1984, an advisory was issued against harvest or
consumption of crabs and shellfish from Eagle Harbor. Approximately 2,000 people live
within a mile of the site. The nearest residence is less than 1/4 mile away. More than 150
residents in the Eagle Harbor area rely on four public and eight to 15 private wells from the
sea-level aquifer for their drinking water. The harbor is used for fishing, swimming, and
boating.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 07/22/87
Threats and Contaminants
Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
and PCP have been found in groundwater and in seeps on adjacent beaches.
Marine sediments and soils contain PNAs, VOCs, metals, and PCP, as well as
dioxins and furans. Individuals ingesting or coming into direct contact with
contaminated groundwater, sediments, soils, or seeps may be at risk. The Kitsap
County Health Department has a health advisory in effect, which advises against
eating shellfish from Eagle Harbor.
112
March 1992
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial
phases focusing on cleanup of the East and West Harbor Areas and the Wyckoff Property
and South Shore.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Under a 1988 Administrative Order, immediate activities
required of Wyckoff to reduce pollutants entering Puget Sound include:
recovering floating oil from shallow recovery wells on the site, removing buried
sludge and tank sludges from the site, treating groundwater pumped from the wells, and
monitoring and discharging treated water to Puget Sound. The groundwater extraction unit
began pumping in 1990 and uses bacteria and carbon filters to treat the water prior to
discharge into Puget Sound. A 1992 Unilateral Administrative Order has expanded the
immediate response action activities required of Wyckoff. Additional actions include the
removal of contaminated sludges and the upgrade of the groundwater extraction treatment
system. Sludge removal is expected to be completed in late 1992. As of 1992, more than 58
million gallons of groundwater have been pumped and treated and 26,000 gallons of oil have
been removed from the recovery wells.
East and West Harbor Areas: The EPA is investigating Eagle Harbor to
identify the source of sediment contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives.
The investigation is expected to be completed in 1992, and the selection of the
final remedy for the East and West Harbor Areas is expected at that time. The EPA also
expects to conduct interim cleanup actions in the East Harbor Area in late 1992. The interim
actions will be necessary because the contamination of the East Harbor Area and the
Wyckoff Property have been found to be related. The completion of the investigations will
reveal the extent of the interrelationship.
Wyckoff Property and South Shore: The EPA is scheduled to initiate an
investigation in 1992 to determine if other actions will be required to address soil
and groundwater contamination.
Site Facts: In 1984, the EPA issued an order requiring Wyckoff to investigate soil and
groundwater contamination at the site. In July 1988, the EPA and the Wyckoff Company
signed an Administrative Order on Consent, under which Wyckoff performed initial cleanup
measures at its Eagle Harbor facility. The Eagle Harbor Technical Discussion Group (TDG),
composed of environmental groups, potentially responsible parties, public health agencies, and
local community groups, has participated in meetings and commented on draft investigative
reports for the Eagle Harbor cleanup. A 1992 Unilateral Administrative Order expanded
potentially responsible party activities.
WYCKOFF CO./EAGLE HARBOR 113 March 1992
-------
Environmental Progress
Upgrading drainage controls, removing creosote tank liquids, and treating groundwater have
significantly reduced the threat to human health and the environment from contamination at
the Wyckoff Co./Eagle Harbor site while investigations leading to the selection of the final
cleanup remedies continue.
Site Repository
Kitsap Regional Library, Bainbridge Branch Library, 1270 Madison North,
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
March 1992
114
WYCKOFF CO./EAGLE HARBOR
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YAKIMA PLATINg
COMPANY
WASHINGTON
EPA ID#WAD040187890
EPA REGION 10
Yakima County
Yakima
Other Names:
Yakima Plating
Site Description
The Yakima Plating Company site covers 2 acres in Yakima. Since 1962, the company has
electroplated bumpers for cars and other objects. Yakima Plating has discharged wastewaters
from its operations to an on-site drainfield from the beginning of plant operations. The plant
operated under a State permit to discharge its wastewater from 1966 to 1977. In 1986, the
EPA found contaminants in the groundwater. The site is located in a neighborhood of
Yakima that includes light commercial and residential areas. Approximately 98,500 people use
groundwater as a source of drinking water within 3 miles of the site. The nearest well is 225
feet from the company's drainfield.
Site Responsibility: The site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contained heavy metals including copper, lead, and zinc. Individuals
may have been exposed to contaminants through ingestion of or direct contact
with contaminated groundwater.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
115
March 1992
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1991, the EPA selected the following remedies to clean up the
site: removal of drums and tanks containing plating wastes; removal of
contaminated surface and subsurface soils for off-site disposal at a Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) facility; development of institutional controls to
ensure that use of an on-site building does not cause future site contamination; and
continued groundwater monitoring to ensure that the removal of the contamination source
continues to protect the groundwater. Cleanup at this site was accelerated as part of a
Superfund Accelerated Cleanup Model pilot program. All of the construction activities at the
site have been completed. Groundwater monitoring will continue on a quarterly basis. Once
groundwater monitoring is complete, the EPA will move to delete this site from the NPL.
Environmental Progress
Removal of contaminated soils and drums, as well as tanks of plating wastes, has reduced the
threat of exposure to contaminants at the Yakima Plating Company site. Groundwater
monitoring will continue on a quarterly basis.
Site Repository
Yakima Valley Regional Library, 102 North 3rd Street, Yakima, WA 98901
March 1992
116
YAKIMA PLATING COMPANY
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GLOSSARY
Terms Used in the NPL Book
Thin 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: Anyunconfinedpartofthe
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.
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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
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GLOSSARY
properties, which increase cleaning efficiency.
However, these properties also cause chemical
reactions that increase the hazard to human
health and the environment.
Carbon Treatment: [see Carbon Adsorp-
tion].
Cell: In solid waste disposal, one of a series of
holes in a landfill where waste is dumped,
compacted, and covered with layers of dirt.
CERCLA: [see Comprehensive Environmen-
tal Response, Compensation, and Liability Act].
Characterization: The sampling, monitoring,
and analysis of a site to determine the extent and
nature of toxic releases. Characterization
provides the basis for acquiring the necessary
technical information to develop, screen, ana-
lyze, and select appropriate cleanup techniques.
Chemical Fixation: The use of chemicals to
bind contaminants, thereby reducing the poten-
tial for leaching or other movement.
Chromated Copper Arsenate: An insecti-
cide/herbicide formed from salts of three toxic
metals: copper, chromium, and arsenic. This
salt is used extensively as a wood preservative
in pressure-treating operations. It is highly toxic
and water-soluble, making it a relatively mobile
contaminant in the environment
Cleanup: Actions taken to eliminate a release
or threat of release of a hazardous substance.
The term "cleanup" sometimes is used inter-
changeably with the terms remedial action,
removal action, response action, or corrective
action.
Closure: The process by which a landfill stops
accepting wastes and is shut down under Federal
guidelines that ensure the protection of the
public and the environment.
Comment Period: A specific interval during
which the public can review and comment on
various documents and EPA actions related to
site cleanup. For example, a comment period is
provided when the EPA proposes to add sites to
the NPL. Also, there is minimum 3-week
comment period for community members to
review and comment on the remedy proposed to
clean up a site.
Community Relations: The EPA effort to
establish and maintain two-way communication
with the public. The goals of community
relations programs include creating an under-
standing of EPA programs and related actions,
assuring public input into decision-making
processes related to affected communities, and
making certain that the Agency is aware of, and
responsive to, public concerns. Specific com-
munity relations activities are required in
relation to Superfund cleanup actions [see
Comment Period].
Comprehensive Environmental Re-
sponse, Compensation, and Liability
Act (CERCLA): Congress enacted the
CERCLA, known as Superfund, in 19X0 to
respond directly to hazardous waste problems
that may pose a threat to the public health and
the environment. The EPA administers the
Superfund program.
Confluence: The place where two bodies of
water, such as streams or rivers, come together.
Confined Aquifer: An aquifer in which
groundwater is confined under pressure that is
significantly greater than atmospheric pressure.
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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.
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GLOSSARY
Dike: A low wall that can act as a barrier to
prevent a spill from spreading.
Dioxin: An organic chemical by-product of
pesticide manufacture which is known to be one
of the most toxic man-made chemicals.
Disposal: Final placement or destruction of
toxic, radioactive, or other wastes; surplus or
banned pesticides or other chemicals; polluted
soils; and drums containing hazardous materials.
Disposal may be accomplished through the use
of approved secure landfills, surface impound-
ments, land farming, deep well injection, or
incineration.
Down gradient: A downward hydrologic
slope that causes groundwater to move toward
lower elevations. Therefore, wells downgradi-
cnt 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].
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GLOSSARY
Filtration: A treatment process for remov-
ing solid (paniculate) 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.
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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.
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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.
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GLOSSARY
The 60-day period may be extended if the EPA
receives a good faith offer from the PRPs
within that period. [See also Good Faith Offer].
On-Scene Coordinator (OSC): The
predesignated EPA, Coast Guard, or Depart-
ment of Defense official who coordinates and
directs Superfund removal actions or Clean
Water Act oil- or hazardous-spill corrective
actions.
Operation and Maintenance: Activities
conducted at a site after a cleanup action is
completed to ensure that the cleanup or
containment system is functioning properly.
Organic Chemicals/Compounds:
Chemical substances containing mainly
carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Outfall: The place where wastewater is
discharged into receiving waters.
Overpacking: Process used for isolating
Large volumes of waste by jacketing or encap-
sulating waste to prevent further spread or
leakage of contaminating materials. Leaking
drums may be contained within oversized
barrels as an interim measure prior to removal
and final disposal.
Pentachlorophenol (PCP): A synthetic,
modified petrochemical that may be used as a
wood preservative because of its toxicity to
termites and fungi. It is a common component
of creosotes and can cause cancer.
Perched (groundwater): Groundwater
separated from another underlying body of
groundwater by a confining layer, often clay or
rock.
Percolation: The downward flow or filtering
of water or other liquids through subsurface
rock or soil layers, usually continuing down-
ward to groundwater.
Pesticide: A substance or mixture of sub-
stances intended to prevent, destroy, or repel any
pest. If misused, pesticides can accumulate in
the foodchain and contaminate the environment.
Petrochemicals: Chemical substances
produced from petroleum in refinery operations
and as fuel oil residues. These include
fluoranthene, chrysene, mineral spirits, and
refined oils. Petrochemicals are the bases from
which volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
plastics, and many pesticides are made. These
chemical substances often are toxic to humans
and the environment.
Phenols: Organic compounds that are used in
plastics manufacturing and are by-products of
petroleum refining, tanning, textile, dye, and
resin manufacturing. Phenols are highly poison-
ous.
Physical Chemical Separation: The
treatment process of adding a chemical to a
substance to separate the compounds for further
treatment or disposal.
Pilot Testing: A small-scale test of a pro-
posed treatment system in the field to determine
its ability to clean up specific contaminants.
Plugging: The process of stopping the flow of
water, oil, or gas into or out of the ground
through a borehole or well penetrating the
ground.
Plume: A body of contaminated groundwater
flowing from a specific source. The movement
of the groundwater is influenced by such factors
as local groundwater flow patterns, the character
of the aquifer in which groundwater is con-
tained, and the density of contaminants [see
Migration].
Pollution: Generally, the presence of matter
or energy whose nature, location, or quantity
produces undesired health or environmental
effects.
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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
Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons
(PNAs): PNAs, such as naphthalene, and
biphenyls, are a group of highly reactive organic
compounds that are a common component of
creosotes, which can be carcinogenic.
Poly vinyl 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.
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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.
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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.
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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 ground water, 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.
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GLOSSARY
Vegetated Soil Cap: A cap constructed with
graded soils and seed for vegetative growth, to
prevent erosion [see Cap].
Vitrification: The process of electrically
melting wastes and soils or sludges to bind the
waste in a glassy, solid material more durable
than granite or marble and resistant to leaching.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):
VOCs are manufactured as secondary petro-
chemicals. They include light alcohols, acetone,
trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene,
dichloroethylene, benzene, vinyl chloride,
toluene, and methylene chloride. These poten-
tially toxic chemicals are used as solvents,
degreasers, paints, thinners, and fuels. Because
of their volatile nature, they readily evaporate
into the air, increasing the potential exposure to
humans. Due to their low water solubility,
environmental persistence, and widespread
industrial use, they are commonly found in soil
and groundwater.
Waste Treatment Plant: A facility that
uses a series of tanks, screens, filters, and
other treatment processes to remove pollut-
ants from water.
Wastewater: The spent or used water from
individual homes or industries.
Watershed: The land area that drains into a
stream or other water body.
Water Table: The upper surface of the
groundwater.
Weir: A barrier to divert water or other liquids.
Wetland: An area that is regularly saturated
by surface or groundwater and, under normal
circumstances, is capable of supporting
vegetation typically adapted for life in satu-
rated soil conditions. Wetlands are critical to
sustaining many species of fish and wildlife.
Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes,
and bogs. Wetlands may be either coastal or
inland. Coastal wetlands have salt or brackish
(a mixture of salt and fresh) water, and most
have tides, while inland wetlands are non-
tidal and freshwater. Coastal wetlands are an
integral component of estuaries.
Wildlife Refuge: An area designated for
the protection of wild animals, within which
hunting and fishing are either prohibited or
strictly controlled.
G-14
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GLOSSARY
Some Common Contaminants at NPL Sites
Contaminant
Example
Chemical types
Sources
Potential Health
Threats*
Heavy Metafs
Volatile Organic-
Compound?
Polydtlorinated
Creosotes
Radiation
(Radiomjcikfes).
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.
*U.S. G.P.O.:1993-341-932:82643
G-15
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