EP 540/8
91-028
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Solid Waste And
Emergency Response
(OS-240)
EPA/540/8-91/028
September 1991
PB92-963248
&EPA National
Priorities
List Sites:
ILLINOIS
1991
Printed on Recycled Paper
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Publication #9200.5-7UA
September 1991
NATIONAL PRIORITIES LIST SITES:
Illinois
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) 487-4650
The National Overview volume, Superfund: Focusing on the Nation at Large (1991),
may be ordered as PB92-963253.
The complete set of the overview documents, plus the 49 state reports may be ordered
as PB92-963253.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Introduction:
A Brief Overview 1
Superfund:
How Does the Program Work to Clean Up Sites? 5
The Volume:
How to Use the State Book 13
NPL Sites:
In the State of Illinois 17
The NPL Report:
Progress to Date 19
The NPL Fact Sheets:
Summary of Site Activities 21
Appendix A: Glossary:
Terms Used in the Fact Sheets 99
Appendix B: Repositories of
Site Information 115
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INTRODUCTION
WHY THE SUPERFUND
PROGRAM?
As the 1970s came to a close, a series of
headline stories gave Americans a
look at the dangers of dumping indus-
trial and urban wastes on the land. First there
was New York's Love Canal. Hazardous
waste buried there over a 25-year period
contaminated streams and soil, and endangered
the health of nearby residents. The result:
evacuation of several hundred people. Then
the leaking barrels at the Valley of the Drums
in Kentucky attracted public attention, as did
the dioxin-tainted land and water in Times
Beach, Missouri.
In all these cases, human health and the envi-
ronment were threatened, lives were disrupted,
and property values were reduced. It became
increasingly clear that there were large num-
bers of serious hazardous waste problems that
were falling through the cracks of existing
environmental laws. The magnitude of these
emerging problems moved Congress to enact
the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act in 1980.
CERCLA commonly known as Superfund
was the first Federal law established to deal
with the dangers posed by the Nation's hazard-
ous waste sites.
After Discovery, the Problem
Intensified
Few realized the size of the problem until the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
began the process of site discovery and site
evaluation. Not hundreds, but thousands of
potential hazardous waste sites existed, and
they presented the Nation with some of the
most complex pollution problems it had ever
faced.
Since the Superfund program began, hazard-
A
Brief
Overview
ous waste has surfaced as a major environ-
mental concern in every part of the United
States. It wasn't just the land that was con-
taminated by past disposal practices. Chemi-
cals in the soil were spreading into the ground-
water (a source of drinking water for many)
and into streams, lakes, bays, and wetlands.
Toxic vapors contaminated the air at some
sites, while improperly disposed or stored
wastes threatened the health of the surrounding
community and the environment at others.
The EPA Identified More than 1,200
Serious Sites
The EPA has identified 1,245 hazardous waste
sites as the most serious in the Nation. These
sites comprise the National Priorities List; sites
targeted for cleanup under Super-fund. But
site discoveries continue, and the EPA esti-
mates that, while some will be deleted after
lengthy cleanups, this list, commonly called
the NPL, will continue to grow by approxi-
mately 50 to 100 sites per year, potentially
reaching 2,100 sites by the year 2000.
THE NATIONAL CLEANUP
EFFORT IS MUCH MORE THAN
THE NPL
From the beginning of the program, Congress
recognized that the Federal government could
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INTRODUCTION
not and should not address all environmental
problems stemming from past disposal prac-
tices. Therefore, the EPA was directed to set
priorities and establish a list of sites to target.
Sites on the NPL (1,245) thus are a relatively
small subset of a larger inventory of potential
hazardous waste sites, but they do comprise
the most complex and compelling cases. The
EPA has logged more than 35,000 sites on its
national inventory of potentially hazardous
waste sites and assesses each site within one
year of being logged.
THE EPA IS MAKING PROGRESS
ON SITE CLEANUP
The goal of the Superfund program is to tackle
immediate dangers first and then move through
the progressive steps necessary to eliminate
any long-term risks to public health and the
environment.
Superfund responds immediately to sites
posing imminent threats to human health and
the environment at both NPL sites and sites not
on the NPL. The purpose is to stabilize,
prevent, or temper the effects of a release of
hazardous substances, or the threat of one, into
the environment. These might include tire
fires or transportation accidents involving the
spill of hazardous chemicals. Because they
reduce the threat a site poses to human health
and the environment, immediate cleanup
actions are an integral part of the Superfund
program.
Immediate response to inminent threats is one
of Superfund's most noted achievements.
Where imminent threats to the public or
environment were evident, the EPA has initi-
ated or completed emergency actions that
attacked the most serious; threats of toxic
exposure in more than 2,700 cases.
The ultimate goal for a hazardous waste site on
the NPL is a permanent solution to an environ-
mental problem that presents a serious threat
to the public or the environment. This often
requires a long-term effort. The EPA has
aggressively accelerated its efforts to perform
these long-term cleanups of NPL sites. More
cleanups were started in 1987, when the
Superfund law was amended, than in any
previous year. By 1991, construction had
started at more than four times as many sites as
in 1986! Of the sites currently on the NPL,
more than 500 nearly half have had
construction cleanup activity. In addition,
more than 400 more sites presently are in the
investigation stage to determine the extent of
site contamination and to identify appropriate
cleanup remedies. Many other sites with
cleanup remedies selected are poised for the
start of cleanup construction activity. In
measuring success by "progress through the
cleanup pipeline," the EPA clearly is gaining
momentum.
THE EPA MAKES SURE
CLEANUP WORKS
The EPA has gained enough experience in
cleanup construction to understand that envi-
ronmental protection does not end when the
remedy is in place. Many complex technolo-
gies like those designed to clean up ground-
water must operate for many years in order
to accomplish their objectives.
The EPA's hazardous waste site managers are
committed to proper operation and mainte-
nance of every remedy constructed. No matter
who has been delegated responsibility for
monitoring the cleanup work, the EPA will
assure that the remedy is carefully followed
and that it continues to do its job.
Likewise, the EPA does not abandon a site
even after the cleanup work is done. Every
five years, the Agency reviews each site where
residues from hazardous waste cleanup still
remain to ensure that public and environmental
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INTRODUCTION
health are being safeguarded. The EPA will
correct any deficiencies discovered and will
report to the public annually on all five-year
reviews conducted that year.
CITIZENS HELP SHAPE
DECISIONS
Superfund activities also depend upon local
citizen participation. The EPA's job is to
analyze the hazards and to deploy the experts,
but the Agency needs citizen input as it makes
choices for affected communities.
Because the people in a community where a
Superfund site is located will be those most
directly affected by hazardous waste problems
and cleanup processes, the EPA encourages
citizens to get involved in cleanup decisions.
Public involvement and comment does influ-
ence EPA cleanup plans by providing valuable
information about site conditions, community
concerns, and preferences.
The State and U.S. Territories volumes and the
companion National overview volume provide
general Superfund background information
and descriptions of activities at each NPL site.
These volumes clearly describe what the
problems are, what the EPA and others partici-
pating in site cleanups are doing, and how we,
as a Nation, can move ahead in solving these
serious problems.
USING THE STATE AND
NATIONAL VOLUMES TOGETHER
To understand the big picture on hazardous
waste cleanup, citizens need to hear about both
environmental progress across the country and
the cleanup accomplishments closer to home.
Citizens also should understand the challenges
involved in hazardous waste cleanup and the
decisions we must make, as a Nation, in
finding the best solutions.
The National overview, Superfund: Focusing
on the Nation at Large (1991), contains impor-
tant information to help you understand the
magnitude and challenges facing the
Superfund program, as well as an overview of
the National cleanup effort. The sections
describe the nature of the hazardous waste
problem nationwide, threats and contaminants
at NPL sites and their potential effects on
human health and the environment, vital roles
of the various participants in the cleanup
process, the Superfund program's successes in
cleaning up the Nation's serious hazardous
waste sites, and the current status of the NPL.
If you did not receive this overview volume,
ordering information is provided in the front of
this book.
This volume compiles site summary fact sheets
on each State or Territorial site being cleaned
up under the Superfund program. These sites
represent the most serious hazardous waste
problems in the Nation and require the most
complicated and costly site solutions yet
encountered. Each book gives a "snapshot" of
the conditions and cleanup progress that has
been made at each NPL site. Information
presented for each site is current as of April
1991. Conditions change as our cleanup
efforts continue, so these site summaries will
be updated annually to include information on
new progress being made.
To help you understand the cleanup accom-
plishments made at these sites, this volume
includes a description of the process for site
discovery, threat evaluation, and long-term
cleanup of Superfund sites. This description,
How Does the Program Work to Clean Up
Sites?, will serve as a reference point from
which to review the cleanup status at specific
sites. A glossary defining key terms as they
apply to hazardous waste management and site
cleanup is included as Appendix A in the back
of this book.
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SUPERFUND
The diverse problems posed by hazard-
ous waste sites have provided the EPA
with the challenge to establish a consis-
tent approach for evaluating and cleaning up
the Nation's most serious sites. To do this, the
EPA has had to step beyond its traditional role
as a regulatory agency to develop processes
and guidelines for each step in these techni-
cally complex site cleanups. The EPA has
established procedures to coordinate the
efforts of its Washington, D.C. Headquarters
program offices and its front-line staff in ten
Regional Offices, with the State and local
governments, contractors, and private parties
who are participating in site cleanup. An
important part of the process is that any time
How Does the
Program Work
to Clean Up
Sites?
THREE-STEP SUPERFUND PROCESS
STEP1
Discover site and
determine whether
an emergency
exists *
STEP 2
Evaluate whether a
site is a serious threat
to public health or
environment
STEPS
Perform long-term
cleanup actions on
the most serious
hazardous waste
sites in the Nation
* Emergency actions are performed whenever needed in this three-step process.
during cleanup, work can be led by the EPA
or the State or, under their monitoring, by
private parties who are potentially responsible
for site contamination.
The process for discovery of the site, evalu-
ation of threat, and the long-term cleanup of
Superfund sites is summarized in the follow-
ing pages. The phases of each of these steps
are highlighted within the description. The
flow diagram above provides a summary of the
three-step process.
Although this book provides a current "snap-
shot" of site progress made only by emergency
actions and long-term cleanup actions at
Superfund sites, it is important to understand
the discovery and evaluation process that leads
to identifying and cleaning up these most
serious uncontrolled or abandoned hazardous
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SUPERFUND
waste sites in the Nation. The discovery and
evaluation process is the starting point for this
summary description of Superfund involve-
ment at hazardous waste sites.
STEP 1: SITE DISCOVERY AND
EMERGENCY EVALUATION
How does the EPA learn about
potential hazardous waste sites?
Site discovery occurs in a number of ways.
Information comes from concerned citizens.
People may notice an odd taste or foul odor in
their drinking water or see half-buried leaking
barrels; a hunter may come across a field
where waste was dumped illegally. There may
be an explosion or fire, which alerts the State
or local authorities to a problem. Routine
investigations by State and local governments
and required reporting and inspection of
facilities that generate, treat, store, or dispose
of hazardous waste also help keep the EPA
informed about actual or potential threats of
hazardous substance releases. All reported
sites or spills are recorded in the Superfund
inventory (CERCLIS) for further investigation
to determine whether the)' will require cleanup.
What happens if there is an imminent
danger?
As soon as a potential hazardous waste site is
reported, the EPA determines whether there is
an emergency requiring an immediate cleanup
action. If there is, they act as quickly as
possible to remove or stabilize the imminent
threat. These short-term emergency actions
range from building a fence around the con-
taminated area to keep people away, or tempo-
rarily relocating residents until the danger is
addressed, to providing bottled water to resi-
dents while their local drinking water supply is
being cleaned up or physically removing
wastes for safe disposal.
However, emergency actions can happen at
any time an imminent threat or emergency
warrants them. For example, if leaking barrels
are found when cleanup crews start digging in
the ground or if samples of contaminated soils
or air show that there may be a threat of fire or
explosion, an immediate action is taken.
STEP 2: SITE THREAT EVALUATION
If there isn't an Imminent danger, how
does the EPA determine what, if any,
cleanup actions should be taken?
Even after any imminent dangers are taken
care of, in most cases, contamination may
remain at the site. For example, residents may
have been supplied with bottled water to take
care of their immediate problem of contami-
nated well water, but now it's time to deter-
mine what is contaminating the drinking water
supply and the best way to clean it up. The
EPA may determine that there is no imminent
danger from a site, so any long-term threats
need to be evaluated. In either case, a more
comprehensive investigation is needed to
determine if a site poses a serious, but not
imminent, danger and whether it requires a
long-term cleanup action.
Once a site is discovered and any needed
emergency actions are taken, the EPA or the
State collects all available background infor-
mation not only from their own files, but also
from local records and U.S. Geological Survey
maps. This information is used to identify the
site and to perform a preliminary assessment of
its potential hazards. This is a quick review of
readily available information to answer the
questions:
Are hazardous substances likely to be
present?
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SUPERFUND
How are they contained?
How might contaminants spread?
How close is the nearest well, home, or
natural resource area such as a wetland
or animal sanctuary?
What may be harmed the land,
water, air, people, plants, or animals?
Some sites do not require further action be-
cause the preliminary assessment shows that
they do not threaten public health or the envi-
ronment. But even in these cases, the sites
remain listed in the Superfund inventory for
record-keeping purposes and future reference.
Currently, there are more than 35,000 sites
maintained in this inventory.
If the preliminary assessment
shows a serious threat may exist,
what's the next step?
Inspectors go to the site to collect additional
information to evaluate its hazard potential.
During this site inspection, they look for
evidence of hazardous waste, such as leaking
drums and dead or discolored vegetation.
They may take some samples of soil, well
water, river water, and air. Inspectors analyze
the ways hazardous materials could be pollut-
ing the environment, such as runoff into
nearby streams. They also check to see if
people (especially children) have access to
the site.
How does the EPA use the results of
the site inspection?
Information collected during the site inspection
is used to identify the sites posing the most
serious threats to human health and the envi-
ronment. This way, the EPA can meet the
requirement that Congress gave them to use
Superfund monies only on the worst hazardous
waste sites in the Nation.
To identify the most serious sites, the EPA
developed the Hazard Ranking System (HRS).
The HRS is the scoring system the EPA uses to
assess the relative threat from a release or a
potential release of hazardous substances from
a site to surrounding groundwater, surface
water, air, and soil. A site score is based on
the likelihood that a hazardous substance will
be released from the site, the toxicity and
amount of hazardous substances at the site, and
the people and sensitive environments poten-
tially affected by contamination at the site.
Only sites with high enough health and envi-
ronmental risk scores are proposed to be added
to the NPL. That's why 1,245 sites are on the
NPL, but there are more than 35,000 sites in
the Superfund inventory. Only NPL sites can
have a long-term cleanup paid for from
Superfund, the national hazardous waste trust
fund. Superfund can, and does, pay for emer-
gency actions performed at any site, whether
or not it's on the NPL.
Why are sites proposed to the NPL?
Sites proposed to the NPL have been evaluated
through the scoring process as the most serious
problems among uncontrolled or abandoned
hazardous waste sites in the U.S. In addition, a
site will be proposed to the NPL if the Agency
for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
issues a health advisory recommending that
people be moved away from the site. The NPL
is updated at least once a year, and it's only
after public comments are considered that
these proposed worst sites officially are added
to the list.
Listing on the NPL does not set the order in
which sites will be cleaned up. The order is
influenced by the relative priority of the site's
health and environmental threats compared to
other sites, and such factors as State priorities,
engineering capabilities, and available tech-
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SUPERFUND
nologies. Many States also have their own list
of sites that require clear up; these often contain
sites that are not on the NPL and are scheduled
to be cleaned up with Slate money. And, it
should be noted again that any emergency
action needed at a site can be performed by the
Superfund, whether or not a site is on the NPL.
A detailed description of the current progress in
cleaning up NPL sites is found in the section of
the 1991 National overview volume entitled
Cleanup Successes: Measuring Progress.
How do people find out whether the
EPA considers a site a national
priority for cleanup under the
Superfund Program?
All NPL sites, where Superfund is responsible
for cleanup, are described in the State and
Territorial volumes. The public also can find
out whether other sites, not on the NPL, are
being addressed by the Superfund program by
calling their Regional EPA office or the Super-
fund Hotline at the numbers listed in this book.
STEP 3: LONG-TERM CLEANUP
ACTIONS
After a site Is added to the NPL, what
are the steps to cleanup?
The ultimate goal for a hazardous waste site on
the NPL is a permanent, long-term cleanup.
Since every site presents a unique set of chal-
lenges, there is no single all-purpose solution.
A five-phase "remedial response" process is
used to develop consistent and workable
solutions to hazardous w.iste problems across
the Nation:
1. Remedial Investigation: investigate in
detail the extent of the site contamination
2. Feasibility Study: study the range of
possible cleanup remedies
3. Record of Decision or ROD: decide
which remedy to use
4. Remedial Design: plan the remedy
5. Remedial Action: carry out the remedy
This remedial response process is a long-term
effort to provide a permanent solution to an
environmental problem that presents a serious
threat to the public or environment.
The first two phases of a long-term cleanup are
a combined remedial investigation and feasibil-
ity study (RI/FS) that determine the nature and
extent of contamination at the site and identify
and evaluate cleanup alternatives. These
studies may be conducted by the EPA or the
State or, under their monitoring, by private
parties.
Like the initial site inspection described earlier,
a remedial investigation involves an examina-
tion of site data in order to better define the
problem. However, the remedial investigation
is much more detailed and comprehensive than
the initial site inspection.
A remedial investigation can best be described
as a carefully designed field study. It includes
extensive sampling and laboratory analyses to
generate more precise data on the types and
quantities of wastes present at the site, the type
of soil and water drainage patterns, and specific
human health and environmental risks.
The result of the remedial investigation is
information that allows the EPA to select the
cleanup strategy that is best suited to a particu-
lar site or to determine that no cleanup is
needed.
Placing a site on the NPL does not necessarily
mean that cleanup is needed. It is possible for
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SUPERFUND
a site to receive an HRS score high enough to
be added to the NPL, but not ultimately require
cleanup actions. Keep in mind that the purpose
of the scoring process is to provide a prelimi-
nary and conservative assessment of potential
risk. During subsequent site investigations, the
EPA may find either that there is no real threat
or that the site does not pose significant human
health or environmental risks.
How are cleanup alternatives
identified and evaluated?
The EPA or the State or, under their monitor-
ing, private parties identify and analyze spe-
cific site cleanup needs based on the extensive
information collected during the remedial
investigation. This analysis of cleanup alterna-
tives is called a feasibility study.
Since cleanup actions must be tailored exactly
to the needs of each individual site, more than
one possible cleanup alternative is always
considered. After making sure that all potential
cleanup remedies fully protect human health
and the environment and comply with Federal
and State laws, the advantages and disadvan-
tages of each cleanup alternative are compared
carefully. These comparisons are made to
determine their effectiveness in the short and
long term, their use of permanent treatment
solutions, and their technical feasibility and
cost.
To the maximum extent practicable, the rem-
edy must be a permanent solution and must use
treatment technologies to destroy principal site
contaminants. Remedies such as containing the
waste on site or removing the source of the
problem (like leaking barrels) often are consid-
ered effective. Often, special pilot studies are
conducted to determine the effectiveness and
feasibility of using a particular technology to
clean up a site. Therefore, the combined
remedial investigation and feasibility study can
take between 10 and 30 months to complete,
depending on the size and complexity of the
problem.
Does the public have a say in the
final cleanup decision?
Yes. The Superfund law requires that the
public be given the opportunity to comment on
the proposed cleanup plan. Their concerns are
considered carefully before a final decision is
made.
The results of the remedial investigation and
feasibility study, which also point out the
recommended cleanup choice, are published in
a report for public review and comment. The
EPA or the State encourages the public to
review the information and take an active role
in the final cleanup decision. Fact sheets and
announcements in local papers let the commu-
nity know where they can get copies of the
study and other reference documents concern-
ing the site. Local information repositories,
such as libraries or other public buildings, are
established in cities and towns near each NPL
site to ensure that the public has an opportunity
to review all relevant information and the
proposed cleanup plans. Locations of informa-
tion repositories for each NPL site described in
this volume are given in Appendix B.
The public has a minimum of 30 days to
comment on the proposed cleanup plan after it
is published. These comments can be written
or given verbally at public meetings that the
EPA or the State are required to hold. Neither
the EPA nor the State can select the final
cleanup remedy without evaluating and provid-
ing written answers to specific community
comments and concerns. This "responsiveness
summary" is part of the EPA's write-up of the
final remedy decision, called the Record of
Decision, or ROD.
The ROD is a public document that explains
the cleanup remedy chosen and the reason it
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SUPERFUND
was selected. Since sites frequently are large
and must be cleaned up in stages, a ROD may
be necessary for each contaminated resource or
area of the site. This may be necessary when
contaminants have spread into the soil, water,
and air and affect such sensitive areas as
wetlands, or when the site is large and cleaned
up in stages. This often means that a number
of remedies, using different cleanup technolo-
gies, are needed to clean up a single site.
If every cleanup action needs to be
tailored to a site, does the design
ofthe remedy need to be tailored,
too?
Yes. Before a specific cleanup action is carried
out, it must be designed in detail to meet
specific site needs. This stage of the cleanup is
called the remedial design. The design phase
provides the details on how the selected rem-
edy will be engineered and constructed.
Projects to clean up a hazardous waste site may
appear to be like any other major construction
project but, in fact, the likely presence of
combinations of dangerous chemicals demands
special construction planning and procedures.
Therefore, the design of the remedy can take
anywhere from six months to two years to
complete. This blueprint for site cleanup
includes not only the details on every aspect of
the construction work, bu: a description of the
types of hazardous wastes expected at the site,
special plans for environmental protection,
worker safety, regulatory compliance, and
equipment decontamination.
Once the design is completed,
how long does it take to actually
clean up the site, and how much
does it cost?
The time and cost for performing the site
cleanup, called the remedial action, are as
varied as the remedies themselves. In a few
cases, the only action needed may be to remove
drums of hazardous waste and to decontami-
nate them, an action that takes limited time and
money. In most cases, however, a remedial
action may involve different and expensive
cleanup measures that can take a long time.
For example, cleaning polluted groundwater or
dredging contaminated river bottoms can take
several years of complex engineering work
before contamination is reduced to safe levels.
Sometimes the selected cleanup remedy de-
scribed in the ROD may need to be modified
because of new contaminant information
discovered or difficulties that were faced
during the early cleanup activities. Taking into
account these differences, each remedial
cleanup action takes an average of 18 months
to complete and ultimately costs an average of
$26 million to complete all necessary cleanup
actions at a site.
Once the cleanup action is
completed, is the site
automatically "deleted" from the
NPL?
No. The deletion of a site from the NPL is
anything but automatic. For example, cleanup
of contaminated groundwater may take up to
20 years or longer. Also, in some cases, long-
term monitoring of the remedy is required to
ensure that it is effective. After construction of
certain remedies, operation and maintenance
(e.g., maintenance of ground cover, groundwa-
ter monitoring, etc.), or continued pumping and
treating of groundwater may be required to
ensure that the remedy continues to prevent
future health hazards or environmental damage
and ultimately meets the cleanup goals speci-
fied in the ROD. Sites in this final monitoring
or operational stage of the cleanup process are
designated as "construction complete."
It's not until a site cleanup meets all the goals
and monitoring requirements of the selected
10
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SUPERFUND
remedy that the EPA can officially propose the
site for deletion from the NPL, and it's not
until public comments are taken into consid-
eration that a site actually can be deleted from
the NPL. All sites deleted from the NPL and
sites with completed construction are included
in the progress report found later in this book.
Can a site be taken off the NPL if
no cleanup has taken place?
Yes. But only if further site investigation
reveals that there are no threats present at the
site and that cleanup activities are not neces-
sary. In these cases, the EPA will select a "no
action" remedy and may move to delete the
site when monitoring confirms that the site
does not pose a threat to human health or the
environment.
In other cases, sites may be "removed" from
the NPL if new information concerning site
cleanup or threats show that the site does not
warrant Superfund activities.
A site may be removed if a revised HRS
scoring, based on updated information, results
in a score below the minimum for NPL sites.
A site also may be removed from the NPL by
transferring it to other appropriate Federal
cleanup authorities, such as RCRA, for further
cleanup actions.
Removing sites for technical reasons or trans-
ferring sites to other cleanup programs pre-
serves Superfund monies for the Nation's most
pressing hazardous waste problems where no
other cleanup authority is applicable.
Can the EPA make parties
responsible for the contamination
pay?
Yes. Based on the belief that "the polluters
should pay," after a site is placed on the NPL,
the EPA makes a thorough effort to identify
and find those responsible for causing con-
tamination problems at a site. Although the
EPA is willing to negotiate with these private
parties and encourages voluntary cleanup, it
has the authority under the Superfund law to
legally force those potentially responsible for
site hazards to take specific cleanup actions.
All work performed by these parties is closely
guided and monitored by the EPA and must
meet the same standards required for actions
financed through the Superfund.
Because these enforcement actions can be
lengthy, the EPA may decide to use Superfund
monies to make sure a site is cleaned up
without unnecessary delay. For example, if a
site presents an imminent threat to public
health and the environment or if conditions at a
site may worsen, it could be necessary to start
the cleanup right away. Those responsible for
causing site contamination are liable under the
law (CERCLA) for repaying the money the
EPA spends in cleaning up the site.
Whenever possible, the EPA and the Depart-
ment of Justice use their legal enforcement
authorities to require responsible parties to pay
for site cleanups, thereby preserving Superfund
resources for emergency actions and for sites
where no responsible parties can be identified.
11
-------
THE VOLUME
The site fact sheets presented in this
book are comprehensive summaries
that cover a broad range of information.
The fact sheets describe hazardous
waste sites on the NPL and their locations, as
well as the conditions leading to their listing
("Site Description"). The summaries list the
types of contaminants that have been discov-
ered and related threats to public and ecologi-
cal health ("Threats and Contaminants").
"Cleanup Approach" presents 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 environ-
ment. The summaries also pinpoint other
actions, such as legal efforts to involve pollut-
ers responsible for site contamination and
community concerns.
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-
How to Use
the State
Book
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.
13
-------
THE VOLUME
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Dates when the site was
Proposed, made Final, and
Deleted from the NPL.
SITE RESPONSIBILITY
Identifies the Federal, State,
and/or potentially respon-
sible parties that are taking
responsibility for cleanup
actions at the site.
SITE NAME
STATE
EPA ID* ABCOOOOOOO
EPA REGION XX
CONGRESSIONAL DIST XX
COUNTY NAME
LOCATION
Other KUrmw:
NPL Listing History
Find: warn
Site Responsibility:
Threats and Contaminants
Cleanup Approach
Response Action Status
Environmental Progress -^f-
ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS
A summary of the actions to reduce the threats to
nearby residents and the surrounding environment;
progress towards cleaning up the site and goals of
the cleanup plan are given here.
14
-------
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.
15 "
-------
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 Contaminated Groundwater in
the vicinity or underlying the site.
(Groundwater is often used as a
drinking 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 vicin-
ity of the site. (Examples include
wetlands and coastal areas or critical
habitats.)
Icons in the Response Action
Status Section
Initial 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 pan 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.
Environmental Progress summa-
rizes the activities taken to date to
protect human health and to clean
up site contamination.
16
-------
NPL SITES
The State of
Illinois
Illinois is located in EPA Region 5, which includes the six midwestern states bordering the Great
Lakes. The state covers 56,345 square miles and consists of prairie and fertile plains throughout,
with open hills in the southern regions. Ranking 6th in U.S. populations, Illinois experienced a
2% increase in population between 1980 and 1990 and currently has approximately 11,431,000
residents, according to the 1990 Census. Principal state industries include manufacturing,
wholesale and retail trade, finance, insurance, agriculture, and foods. Illinois manufactures
machinery, electric and electronic equipment, primary and fabricated metals, printing and pub-
lishing, and chemical products.
How Many NPL Sites
Are in the State of Illinois?
Proposed
Final
Deleted
0
36
_L
37
Where Are the NPL Sites Located?
Congressional Districts 4,21 1 site
Congressional Districts 17,19,20,22 2 sites
Congressional District 15 3 sites
Congressional Districts 10,13 4 sites
Congressional District 14 6 sites
Congressional District 16 10 sites
What Type of Sites Are on the NPL
in the State of Illinois?
# of sites
11
4
4
3
2
2
3
type of sites
Municipal & Industrial Landfills
Federal Facilities
Metals & Allied Products
Ore Processing Plants
Petroleum Refining & Related Industries
Chemicals & Allied Products
Manufacturing (Construction, lumber & wood,
electric power & electroplating)
Others (Storage facilities, salvage yard, coal
gasification plant, recycler, quarry)
17
April1991
-------
NPL SITES
How Are Sites Contaminated and What Are the Principal* Chemicals?
36--
30--
24 -
«18-
'M
fi
GW Soil Sad SW
Contamination Area
Air
Groundwater: Volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), heavy metals
(inorganics) and polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs).
Soil: Heavy metals (inorganics),
volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs),
creosotes (organics), and radiation.
Surface Water and Sediments:
Heavy metals (inorganics), volatile
organic compounds (VOCs), and
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
Air: Radiation, petrochemicals, and
asbestos.
* Appear it 13% or more sites
Where Are the Sites in the Super-fund Cleanup Process?*
21
Sites
with
Studies
Underway
2
She*
with
Remedy
Selected
3
Sites
with
Remedy
Design
8
Sites
with
Cleanup
Ongoing
Sites
with
Construction
Complete
1
Deleted
Site
In addition to the activities described above, initial actions have been taken at 22 sites as interim
cleanup measures.
'Cleanup status reflects phases of site activities rather than administrative accomplishments.
April 1991
18
-------
THE NPL REPORT
The following Progress Report lists all
sites currently on, or deleted from, the
NPL and briefly summarizes the status
of activities for each site at the time this
report was prepared. The steps in the Super-
fund cleanup process are arrayed across the
top of the chart, and each site's progress
through these steps is represented by an arrow
(O) indicating the current stage of cleanup.
Large and complex sites often are organized
into several cleanup stages. For example,
separate cleanup efforts may be required to
address the source of the contamination,
hazardous substances in the groundwater, and
surface water pollution, or to clean up differ-
ent areas of a large site. In such cases, the
chart portrays cleanup progress at the site's
most advanced stage, reflecting the status of
site activities rather than administrative
accomplishments.
An arrow in the "Initial Response" cate-
gory indicates that an emergency cleanup or
initial action has been completed or currently
is underway. Emergency or initial actions are
taken as an interim measure to provide im-
mediate relief from exposure to hazardous site
conditions or to stabilize a site to prevent
further contamination.
A final arrow in the "Site Studies"
category indicates that an investigation to
determine the nature and extent of the
contamination at the site currently is ongoing.
A final arrow in the "Remedy Selection"
category means that the EPA has selected 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
Progress
To Date
Action" remedy is 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 specifications 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 currently are
underway.
A final arrow in the "Construction
Complete" category is used only when all
phases of the site cleanup plan have been
performed, and the EPA has determined 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 protect human
health and the environment.
A check in the "Deleted" category indicates
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.
19
April 1991
-------
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21
April 1991
-------
THE NPL FACT SHEETS
Summary
of Site
Activities
EPA REGION 5
23
ApriM991
-------
Who Do I Call with Questions?
The following pages describe each NPL site in Illinois, providing specific
information on threats and contaminants, cleanup activities, and environmen-
tal progress. Should you have questions, please call the EPA's Region 5
Office in Chicago, Illinois or one of the other offices listed below:
EPA. Region 5 Superfund Community Relations Office
EPA Region 5 Superfund Office
EPA Superfund Hotline
EPA Headquarters Public Information Center
Illinois Superfund Office
(312) 353-2073
(312)886-7456
(800) 424-9346
(202) 260-2080
(608) 267-7562
April 1991
24
-------
A & F MATERIAL
RECLAIMING, IN
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD980397079
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 19
Cumberland County
Greenup
The A & F Material Reclaiming, Inc. site covers nearly 4 acres in Greenup. The facility began
operations in 1977 and processed waste materials including oil, sludge, and caustic and sulfuric acid
into fuel oil and fire retardant chemicals. In 1978, four storage lagoons filled and began to overflow,
contaminating soil and drainage pathways leading to the Embarras River. Twelve steel storage tanks
containing a mixture of waste oils, sludges, spent caustics and acids, contaminated water, and other
waste products also were located on site. These tanks failed on several occasions, releasing their
contents into the surrounding environment. The facility was closed in 1980. The area surrounding
the site is agricultural, residential, commercial, municipal, and forestland. The county fairgrounds
are southwest of the site and are used year-round for the boarding and care of horses. The Village of
Greenup has a population of approximately 2,000 people. The Embarras River is 1/2 mile away
from the site and is used for fishing and livestock watering.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/16/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), sulfates,
phenols, heavy metals, and petroleum products. Sediments in the drainage ditch
contained polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs). Soils were contaminated with
phenols and benzoic acid. As a result of cleanup activities in 1985, the only remaining
health threats may result from accidental ingestion or direct contact with contaminated
groundwater.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in three stages: immediate actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleanup of the soils and groundwater.
25
April 1991
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: When a lagoon overflowed in 1980, the EPA repaired the lagoon
dikes, increased the freeboards, and cleaned the surrounding areas. In 1982, the EPA
increased the freeboards by treating approximately 502,600 gallons of water with
activated carbon filters and discharged the treated water into the Embarras River. In 1983, when
the lagoons were close to overflowing again, the EPA treated and discharged 1,018,000 gallons of
water into the Embarras River. About 7,000 cubic yards of sludge were moved from Lagoons 2, 3,
and 4 into Lagoon 1. Lagoons 2 and 4 were backfilled with clean soil. All the sludge could not
easily be moved from Lagoon 3 to Lagoon 1, so a sludge cell was built for the waste in Lagoon 3.
A temporary cap was placed over the consolidated sludge. In 1983, the EPA selected an initial
measure to quickly reduce health threats at the site. This measure included removing and disposing
of all contaminated bulk liquid, oil, and drums in a federally approved facility. The EPA completed
this initial measure in 1985.
Soils: In 1985, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the soils by excavating and
disposing of all contaminated soils; monitoring the groundwater; cleaning and removing
all on-site equipment and buildings; testing and disposing of soil underneath the
buildings if it was found to be contaminated; grading the site; and removing the fence surrounding
the site. The potentially responsible parties, under EPA monitoring, finished all the cleanup
activities relating to the contaminated soil in 1985.
Groundwater:; In 1986, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the groundwater by
establishing a monitoring program to ensure that all residual groundwater contamination
remaining after the 1985 cleanup will steadily decrease to safe levels by natural dilution
and purging to the Embarras River. In addition, institutional controls will be implemented to ensure
that drinking water wells are not installed in contaminated groundwater areas during the period of
natural purging and dilution. Procedures also will be established for a regular review of the
monitoring data until safe levels are reached. The potentially responsible parties, under EPA
monitoring, have designed the technical specifications for groundwater monitoring. The monitoring
activities began in spring ] 990 and will continue to check on reductions in groundwater
contamination.
Site Facts: In 1984, a partial Consent Decree was entered into by the EPA and four potentially
responsible parties. Under the terms of the Decree, the companies agreed to undertake cleanup at
the site. In 1989, four potentially responsible parties signed a Consent Decree for final cleanup at
the site.
Environmental Progress
The immediate actions of treating contaminated lagoon water and removing contaminated materials
have significantly reduced the threat to the public and the environment. The cleanup of
contaminated soils at the A & F Material Reclaiming, Inc. site has been completed and has further
reduced site contamination levels. A monitoring program has been, and currently is, underway to
monitor the natural decline of contaminated groundwater and to ensure that contamination levels
continue to decline.
April 1991 26 A & F MATERIAL RECLAIMING. INC.
-------
ACME SOLVENT
RECLAIMING,
(MORRISTOW
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD053219259
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Winnebago County
5 miles southeast of Rockford
The 20-acre Acme Solvent Reclaiming, Inc. (Morristown Plant) site was used as a drum storage and
disposal area for wastes generated by Acme's solvent distillation units. From 1960 to 1972, the site
consisted of seven waste disposal lagoons and open storage of 10,000 to 15,000 drums. Although
operations at the site temporarily were discontinued in 1969 because of concern expressed by the
Winnebago County Department of Public Health, site operations resumed in 1971 and continued
until 1972. Paints, oils, solvents, and sludges are among the wastes known to have been deposited at
the site. Waste disposal practices consisted of emptying drums into the lagoons and storing the
empty drums at various open areas on the site. Sludge and other non-recyclable materials were
pumped from tanker trucks into the lagoons. After receiving several reports in 1972, Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency (TEPA) investigators found violations of environmental
regulations, including operating a waste disposal facility without a permit, open burning of refuse,
and dumping liquids in a manner that posed a threat to the groundwater. The State ordered the site
cleaned up in 1972. The site was closed in 1973, after State inspections indicated that the majority
of drums were being crushed and buried at the site, and waste in the lagoons was being covered,
rather than removed for off-site disposal. In 1981, methane gas migration into some homes located
between the Acme Solvent site and the nearby Pagel's Pit Landfill site led to well water testing by
the County. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were found in four private drinking water wells.
Approximately 5,500 people live within 3 miles of the site. There are several surface water bodies
in the area surrounding the site, including a small tributary stream that flows into Killbuck Creek, the
Kishwaukee River, and the Rock River. Only the Rock River is known to be used as a public water
supply.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Dale: 07/16/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains various VOCs. Soil contains VOCs, phthalates, polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs), and heavy metals including lead and chromium. People who come in
direct contact with or accidentally ingest contaminated groundwater or soil may be at
risk. If contaminants leach from the site into the nearby stream or creek, wildlife in or
around the water may be harmed.
27
April 1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of soils and
cleanup of the waste areas, soils, bedrock, and groundwater.
Response Action Status
Soils: In 1985, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the waste and the soil by providing
an interim alternate water supply to affected residences through the installation of home
carbon treatment units; excavating and incinerating waste materials and contaminated soils
and disposing of them in a federally approved facility; continuing the investigation into bedrock
contamination and its cleanup; and continuing the investigation of contaminated groundwater and
performance of pump tests to evaluate the effectiveness of controlling the contaminant plume. In
1987, Acme, under EPA monitoring, installed home carbon treatment units in five residences with
contaminated wells. The residents were provided with free bottled water until the units could be used
for drinking water purposes. In addition, the parties potentially responsible for site contamination
excavated and disposed of approximately 40,000 tons of contaminated materials.
Waste Areas, Soils, Bedrock, and Groundwater: In 1990, the EPA and the IEPA
selected a remedy to clean up and treat the wastes in two waste areas, the soils, the
bedrock, and the: groundwater. This remedy includes: excavation of soils and sludges in
two waste areas and treatment by low-temperature air stripping; further treatment of the residuals, as
necessary; incineration of liquids located in two on-site tanks and disposal of those tanks; provision
of a permanent alternate water supply to residents with contaminated wells; extraction and treatment
of contaminated groundwater and discharge of the treated water to surface water, treatment of the
remaining contaminated soils and bedrock using vapor extraction; consolidation of remaining
contaminated soils and covering these soils and areas where residuals are landfilled on site with a cap;
long-term groundwater monitoring; and fencing the site and providing access restrictions and deed
notices or advisories for residences with contaminated groundwater. Engineering designs are
scheduled to begin in 1991, with final cleanup activities beginning in 1992.
Site Facts: In 1986, the potentially responsible parties entered into a Consent Order with the EPA
to study and develop cleanup alternatives for the site.
Environmental Progress
The provision of an alternate water supply and disposal of contaminated materials have greatly
reduced the potential for exposure to contaminated materials at the Acme Solvent Reclamation site
while further cleanup activities continue and permanent remedies are sought for groundwater
contamination.
April 1991 28 ACME SOLVENT RECLAIMING, INC.
(MORRISTOWN PLANT)
-------
ADAMS COU
LANDFILLS 2
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980607055
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 20
Adams County
1/2 mile west of Quincy
Site Description
In 1973 and 1975, the Adams County Quincy Landfills 2 and 3 were licensed to operate as solid
waste disposal sites. Landfill 2 covers 11 3/4 acres and Landfill 3, approximately 40 acres. From
1972 to 1978, the Quincy landfills received the majority of the county's waste, including
combustible and hazardous materials. Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (TEPA) records
show that the City of Quincy accepted liquid industrial waste for disposal into unlined pits until the
liquids could be pumped into the covered portions of the site. Wastes disposed of included solvents,
acids, sludges, spent organic solvents used in degreasing, wastewater treatment sludges from
electroplating operations, hydraulic oil, machine coolant, thinners, acetone, and toluene. An
estimated 23,000 drums of hazardous waste were accepted. Groundwater samples taken by the
IEPA in 1985 and 1986 showed contamination by various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In
1985 and 1986, the IEPA also sampled two nearby wells that were found to be contaminated and
closed them. Approximately 300 people obtain drinking water from private wells within 3 miles of
the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with VOCs and selenium. Leachate seeps from
the surface of the landfill are contaminated with VOCs and polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs). Drinking contaminated groundwater or touching the
contaminated leachate may be potential health threats. The site is not completely
fenced.
29
April1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: an immediate action and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Action: An alternate water supply was provided to residents near the site.
Entire Site: In 1987, the parties potentially responsible for the site contamination began
an investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify
alternatives for cleanup of the site. A supplemental study began in 1990 that is focusing
on additional groundwater and leachate sampling. It is planned to be completed in fall 1991.
Environmental Progress
Providing an alternate water supply has eliminated the potential of exposure to hazardous substances
in the drinking water and will continue to protect households near the Adams County Quincy
Landfills 2 and 3 until final cleanup activities are completed.
April 1991 30 ADAMS COUNTY QUINCY LANDFILLS 2 & 3
-------
AMOCO CHEMICAL
(JOLIET LANDHLU
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD002994259
Site Description
o -
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 17
Will County
6 miles southwest of Joliet
Amoco Chemicals manufactures chemicals on a property in a commercial and industrial area along
Route 6, near Route 66, southwest of Joliet. Approximately 5 million cubic feet of wastes,
including organics, inorganics, heavy metals, acids and mixed municipal refuse, were disposed of in
a 26-acre landfill on the property from 1958 to 1976. Some ignitable wastes and organic acid
residues were disposed of in drums in the landfill. A leachate collection system was installed in
1975 under a permit from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA). Until the leachate
collection system was installed, leachate from the landfill flowed into an inlet of the adjacent
Des Plaines River. The leachate now is treated in Amoco's wastewater treatment plant before it is
discharged to the river. In 1976, Amoco covered the landfill with 2 feet of compacted clay and
seeded it with perennial grasses. The landfill was officially closed in 1978. Tests conducted by the
IEPA in 1974, and by Amoco in 1982, indicated that monitoring wells downslope of the site were
contaminated. A shallow aquifer underlies the site, and the Des Plaines River is used for
recreational activities. Approximately 1,000 people obtain drinking water from private wells drilled
into the shallow aquifer within 3 miles of the site. An estimated 1,100 to 2,300 individuals live
within 3 miles of the site. A residential area is located 1/2 mile northwest of the plant
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including
benzene, toluene, and xylenes. The leachate is contaminated with the heavy metals
cadmium, copper, lead, and chromium. Coming in direct contact with contaminated
groundwater may pose a potential health threat. The site is open to the river, making it
possible for people and animals to come into direct contact with hazardous substances.
31
April 1991
-------
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: An investigation into the extent of groundwater, leachate, and possible
surface water contamination, as well as alternative remedies, is scheduled to begin in mid-
1991. Following the investigation and the evaluation of results, the EPA will select the
appropriate cleanup technologies.
Environmental Progress
After placing the Amoco Chemical site on the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary evaluations and
determined that the site does not pose an imminent threat to the public or the environment while the
investigations leading to the selection of permanent cleanup remedies are taking place.
April 1991
32
AMOCO CHEMICALS (JOLIET LANDFILL)
-------
BELOIT CORP
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD021440375
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Winnebago County
Village of Rockton
The 175-acre Beloit Corp. site in Rockton operates as a plant for paper-making machine
manufacturing and as a research and development facility for designing and demonstrating the
machines to prospective customers. The facility purchases clean virgin pulp to make multi-layered
paper products. The wastewater and paper fibers generated from the manufacturing process were
disposed of in three unlined surface impoundments. These impoundments have since been taken out
of service. The paper fiber sediment from the bottom of the impoundments was spread on the
ground, as allowed by the State through a permit issued in 1983. Tests by the company in 1985
found volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in on-site monitoring wells and in nearby private wells.
Approximately 15,000 people obtain drinking water from public and private wells located within 3
miles of the site. The Rock River is less than 50 feet from the site's surface impoundments.
Site Responsibility:
This 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
Soils, groundwater, surface water, and on-site pond sediments are contaminated with
VOCs. Potential health threats to people include drinking contaminated groundwater and
pond water, accidental ingestion of contaminated soil and pond sediments, and coming in
direct contact with contaminated groundwater, pond water, pond sediments, and soils.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase directed at cleanup of the entire site.
33
April 1991
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Response Action Status
Entire Site: The EPA and the State currently are working together on a groundwater
monitoring program in the Rockford area. An investigation that will define the
contaminants of concern and will recommend effective alternatives for final cleanup
currently is underway and is planned to be completed in 1993.
Environmental Progress
The EPA and the State concurrently are conducting investigations that will lead to the selection of
the final remedies to clean up the Beloit Corp. site.
April 1991
34
BELOIT CORP
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BELVIDERE
MUNICIPAL
LANDFILL
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD980497663
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Boone County
Adjacent to the City of Belvidere
The Belvidere Municipal Landfill site occupies 139 acres, 19 of which were used for a landfill. The
City of Belvidere operated the landfill and received municipal wastes from 1939 to 1973. Between
1965 and 1973, the site was used to dispose of industrial wastes, sludge from the city sewage
treatment plant, paint and oil sludge, unknown liquid wastes, and other sludges. The current landfill
cover is composed of silt and sand and varies in thickness up to 36 inches. An area just west of the
landfill was found to contain buried drums that were filled with liquids or sludges. The Kishwaukee
River borders the site, and an active gravel pit is adjacent to the northern portion of the site. West
Pond and East Pond lie to the east of the site, and Spencer Park lies southeast of the site.
Approximately 14,000 people live within 3 miles of the landfill. The site is located 1/2 mile from
six residences that use groundwater as a supply for drinking water. Most of the county is rural;
however, Belvidere has an industrial base which includes the manufacture of cars, furniture, and
metal fasteners, in addition to several light industries.
Site Responsibility:
The site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and soils contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including benzene,
toluene, and xylenes; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs); nitrite; and heavy metals including chromium. Surface water contains
low levels of VOCs including trichloroethylene (TCE), nitrate, and heavy metals. None
of these contaminants exceeds established Federal standards. Individuals who come into
direct contact with contaminated groundwater and soil could be at risk. People who eat
fish from the Kishwaukee River could be exposed to PCBs. The shallow groundwater
under the site is transporting significant levels of contaminants toward the Kishwaukee
River. People who swim in the Spencer Park ponds or the river could be exposed to
contaminants through direct contact.
35
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase directed at
cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1986, the EPA staged and sampled 110 drums. Workers crushed and
relocated 65 empty drums to a new holding area for disposal, and contaminated soils were
excavated and loaded into boxes. The drums and contaminated soils were compiled into
one waste pile and disposed of at a federally approved landfill. The EPA solidified liquids with
cement and transported them off site for disposal.
Entire Site: In 1988, the EPA chose the following remedies to address contamination at
the site: (1) placing a cap over the landfill; (2) sampling the soil in the drum disposal area
and cleaning up the PCBs; (3) removing highly contaminated soil off site to be burned,
with the remaining lesser -contaminated soils to be capped; (4) installing a pump and treat system to
remove contaminants from groundwater and discharging the treated water to the City's water
treatment plant; (5) monitoring the groundwater in and around the site; (6) installing an upgraded
fence around the landfill; (7) instituting deed restrictions to control unacceptable activities and
construction on site; and (8) installing flood control measures to prevent erosion of the cap and the
contents of the landfill. The EPA approved the technical designs for the cleanup in 1990, and the
potentially responsible parties began site work. The PCB-contaminated soil was consolidated on the
landfill, and the landfill was capped. A fence was installed around the landfill, and deed restrictions
are in place. The groundwater extraction system is partially completed. Construction is expected to
be completed in fall 1991.
Environmental Progress
Construction of a fence around the landfill and wells and a cap over the contaminated soils have
eliminated the possibility of direct contact with the site contaminants. By removing the
contaminated drums and their contents to an approved disposal facility, the EPA greatly reduced the
risk of exposure to hazardous materials at the Belvidere Municipal Landfill site while the cleanup
work and construction of the selected remedies are taking place.
April 1991 36 BELVIDERE MUNICIPAL LANDFILL
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BYRON SALVAGE
YARD
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD010236230
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Ogle County
4 miles southwest of Byron
Other Names:
Byron Johnson
The Byron Salvage Yard site encompasses both the Byron Johnson Salvage Yard and Dirk's Farm
near Byron. During the 1960s and the early 1970s, the salvage yard accepted miscellaneous wastes
and debris for disposal, including drums of electroplating wastes, oil sludges, cutting wheels,
solvents, and scrap metal. Because industrial waste dumping occurred during periods of heavy
rainfall, much of the waste was carried off site by the surface water runoff. Cyanide-containing
plating waste was sprayed onto the roads in and around the salvage yard. In 1976, the State found
cyanide and heavy metals in the soil, surface water, and groundwater. Approximately 5,000 people
live in Byron. The closest residence to the salvage yard is approximately 100 yards away. About 50
people live within 1 mile of the site, and all residences used private wells supplied by groundwater
until the State extended a municipal water line to a majority of the affected residences in 1988 and
1989. The area is rural, and the site is bordered by a forest preserve, farmlands, and a nuclear power
plant. The property is bisected by two ravines that drain surface water runoff into the south branch
of Woodland Creek, which flows into the Rock River.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
L\
Groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as vinyl
chloride and trichloroethylene (TCE) and heavy metals including cadmium, chromium,
nickel, and lead. Soil is contaminated with cyanide, toluene, xylene, and heavy metals
including antimony. Meyer's Spring contains trace levels of cyanide and TCE.
Groundwater is the only source of drinking water in the area; therefore, people who drink
or come in direct contact with contaminated well water may be at risk. Those who
trespass on the site and accidentally ingest or come in direct contact with contaminated
soil potentially may suffer adverse health effects.
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in five stages: initial actions and four long-term remedial phases
focusing on cleanup of the soils and drums, installation of home carbon units, cleanup of the
groundwater, and cleanup of Dirk's Farm.
37
April 1991
-------
Response Action Status
Initial Actions; As initial actions in 1984, the EPA constructed a fence to prohibit access
to the site, provided residents with bottled water, and, later, carbon filter systems for their
water supplies. In 1988, the EPA discovered floating contaminants in the groundwater and
installed a skimmer in a pumping well to remove the pollutants.
Soils and Drums: In 1985, the State selected a remedy to clean up the soil and the
buried drums by disposing of all surface and buried drums, excavating and disposing of
highly contaminated soils, and treating soils containing less than 100 parts per million of
cyanide with sodium hypochlorite. The State completed all the cleanup actions for the drums and
soil in 1986.
Home Carbon Units: In 1986, following the installation of carbon filtration units for 10
houses in the Acorn Road subdivision, the EPA selected a remedy consisting of installing
whole-house carbon filtration systems in affected residences, continuing sampling to ensure
that the carbon filtration is effective, installing replacement carbon filters when needed, and
disposing of the spent filters at a federally approved facility. The EPA completed these actions in
1986. The EPA plans to remove the carbon filters in the near future, because the homes have been
connected to the municipal water supply since 1988.
Groundwater Contamination: In 1989,, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the
groundwater by: (1) extending the Byron municipal water supply system to 27 additional
residences; (2) removing all wastes generated during an EPA study; (3) installing,
sampling, and analyzing monitoring wells near the Rock River, (4) monitoring surface water and
groundwater on a long-term basis; (5) plugging monitoring wells not selected for long-term use; and
(6) limiting public exposure to groundwater by plugging abandoned residential wells and requiring
hook-ups to the public water supply. The technical design of the alternate water supply and
sampling of the affected areas of the Rock River have been completed. The EPA is designing the
technical specifications for the remaining actions. Once the design phases are completed, expected
for summer 1991, the cleanup activities are scheduled to begin.
Dirk's Farm: During investigations of the salvage yard, the EPA also discovered Dirk's
Farm, adjacent to the site area, to be contaminated. The EPA is investigating this new area
thoroughly to determine the extent and type of contamination. Field work investigations
have begun, and the study is expected to be completed in 1992. At that time, measures to clean up
the area will be selected by the EPA.
Site Facts: In 1983, the EPA and the State signed a Cooperative Agreement, under which the State
agreed to study the type and extent of the site contamination.
Environmental Progress
The EPA has completed numerous cleanup actions at the Byron Salvage Yard site, including
installing a fence, providing carbon treatment units to homes with wells, and removing contaminated
drums and soils. The EPA also has initiated a study on the adjacent contaminated area discovered
during investigations of the site. All these actions have significantly reduced the threat of exposure
to hazardous materials on the site while the remaining cleanup activities are taking place.
April 1991 38 BYRON SALVAGE YARD
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CENTRAL ILLINOIS
PUBLIC SERVICE
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD981781065
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 20
Christian County
Taylorville
Other Names:
CIPS
The Central Illinois Public Service Co. (CIPS) site is a former coal gasification plant covering 1 acre
in Taylorville. The gas plant was constructed in 1892 and was operated by the Taylorville Gas and
Electric Company until 1912, when it was acquired by CIPS. Operations stopped in 1932, and CIPS
sold the property in 1961. The gasification process generated coal tar, which contains polynuclear
aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs) and other impurities that were periodically removed and sold or
given away for use as road oil, roofing tar, or a pesticide. When CIPS abandoned the facility, the
aboveground structures were demolished; however, underground tanks containing tar and other
equipment remained in place. The tanks were covered with miscellaneous debris and fill.
Contamination at the site was first suspected when Apple Construction Company, which acquired
the site in 1985, excavated a trench for a septic tank drainage line. Workers noticed strong odors,
discoloration of excavated soils, and a dark viscous material throughout the soil. CIPS was notified
of the problem and began an investigation. In 1986, CIPS confirmed the presence of PNAs and
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in soils and groundwater. Contaminants also have been found
in the Sangamon River. CIPS is monitoring groundwater and surface water, as well as sediment and
fish in the Seaman Estate Pond. Approximately 12,700 people live within a 3-mile radius of the
site, and about 4,500 people live within 1 mile. Three municipal water wells are located 3 miles
from the property. These wells serve as an alternate supply for the City of Taylorville. The main
water supply for the city is Lake Taylorville, about 4 miles southeast of the site.
Site Responsibility: This 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: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and sediments from a drainage culvert and a private lake are contaminated
with VOCs including benzene, toluene, and xylene. The excavated soil was
contaminated with naphthalene, fluorene, and various VOCs. Surface water runoff has
transported contaminants off the site. People who come in direct contact with or
accidentally ingest contaminated soil, groundwater, surface water, or sediments may
suffer adverse health effects. Contaminants may accumulate in fish in the Seaman Estate
Pond, and if eaten, the fish may be harmful to human health.
39
April 1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressee! in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: Under Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA)
supervision, 3 underground structures, 9,000 cubic yards of contaminated on-site soil, and
3,000 cubic yards of off-site soil were removed. A water main was completed by CIPS to
supply water to residents within 1/2 mile of the site, and the ownership was transferred to the City of
Taylorville. The building on the site also was demolished, and a chain-link fence with a locking
gate was installed around much of the perimeter of the site.
Entire Site: CIPS began a thorough investigation of the site under State supervision.
This investigation, scheduled to be completed in 1991, will determine if additional soil
needs to be excavated and the most effective method to treat the contaminated
groundwater, surface water, and sediments. Draft site reports currently are under review by the
tEPA. Once the studies are completed, the EPA will review and select cleanup alternatives for the
site.
Site Facts: In 1986, the State issued an order to CIPS and Apple Contractors, directing the
companies to thoroughly investigate the site and to remove the buried structures.
Environmental Progress
The removal of the underground structures, contaminated soils, construction of a fence to limit site
access, and the demolition of the contaminated building on the Central Illinois Public Service Co.
site have reduced the potential for exposure to hazardous materials while the studies leading to a
final selection of cleanup alternatives are being conducted.
April 1991 40 CENTRAL ILLINOIS PUBLIC SERVICE CO.
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CROSS BROTHERS PA
RECYCLING
(PEMBROKE)
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD980792303
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 15
Kankakee County
Pembroke Township
The 20-acre Cross Brothers Pail Recycling (Pembroke) site, located about 14 miles southeast of
Kankakee, is an abandoned drum and pail reclamation facility. The container reclamation facility
covered 10 acres of the site. From 1961 until 1980, pails and drums were recycled at the site by
burning out the residue using hazardous waste solvents as fuel and then sandblasting and painting
them. Container contents were emptied onto the ground, and the containers were buried. Soil and
groundwater became contaminated during these operations. Site investigations led to the discovery
of over 10,000 mostly empty 5-gallon pails, 10 acres of contaminated soil, at least 10 covered
trenches of unknown wastes, and a plume of contaminated groundwater leaving the site. A house
trailer is occupied and maintained at the site. There are 3,500 people living within 3 miles of the
site. The site is adjacent to properties that either are pasture land or individual residential lots. The
contaminated groundwater plume has moved to the north and has contaminated two residential water
wells. These two wells have been abandoned and replaced with deeper wells. Local residents use
groundwater as their drinking water supply, and possibly, as a livestock and agriculture water
supply. There are at least 12 privately owned water supply wells within 1/2 mile of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This 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 is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene,
toluene, and xylenes and heavy metals including lead. Soil is contaminated with
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and VOCs. The greatest health threat to people is
through direct exposure to the contaminated groundwater moving off site into nearby
residential, livestock, and agricultural water supply wells. The potential for contaminated
groundwater to migrate exists due to the presence of sandy soils in the aquifer.
Trespassers also may be at risk through accidentally ingesting, inhaling, or making direct
contact with contaminated soil.
41
April 1991
-------
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: Under advisement by the State, the potentially responsible parties
deepened contaminated wells to provide clean drinking water. As an initial measure in
1985, a partial fence was placed around the site. Most of the drums, pails, and
contaminated soils, considered to be the sources of groundwater contamination, were removed from
the site. Also in 1985, the EPA selected soil cleanup technologies to address site contamination,
including off-site disposal of surface and buried waste materials and visibly contaminated soil.
Entire Site: In 1989, the EPA selected cleanup technologies to address site
contamination which include: (1) resampling localized areas of the PCB-contaminated
soil area for eventual removal and incineration; (2) installing a groundwater collection
system to capture the contaminated groundwater plume; (3) treating on-site groundwater to achieve
cleanup levels; (4) cleaning soil from an estimated 3 1/2-acre area by flushing with water; and (5)
applying a 6-inch vegetative cover to the remaining site area. A fence surrounding the entire site
will be constructed. Water discharged from groundwater cleanup will be treated and used for the
soil flushing operation. The potentially responsible parties, under EPA monitoring, are preparing the
technical specifications and design for the selected cleanup technologies. Cleanup activities are
expected to begin once the design phase is completed.
Site Facts: In 1980, the Kankakee County Circuit Court ordered the potentially responsible parties
to discontinue recycling operations and to clean up the site surface. In 1983, the EPA signed a
Cooperative Agreement with the State to conduct an investigation into the nature and extent of
contamination at the site.
Environmental Progress
The affected area wells have been deepened to provide safe drinking water, and most of the
contaminated containers and soils have been removed and disposed of in an approved facility. The
EPA has selected the remedies for the permanent cleanup of the Cross Brothers site, and the actual
cleanup activities are scheduled to begin once the design phase has been completed.
AnriM991 42 CROSS BROTHERS PAIL
M RECYCLING (PEMBROKE)
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DUPAGE COUNTY
LANDFILL/BLACKWELL
FOREST PRESERVE
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980606305
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 14
Dupage County
Warrenville
The Dupage County Landfill/Blackwell Forest Preserve site covers 40 acres within the 1,235-
acre Blackwell Forest Preserve. From 1965 to 1970, the Forest Preserve District and DuPage
County operated the landfill, accepting demolition debris, municipal refuse, and unknown
amounts of potentially hazardous waste. When the site was closed, the Forest Preserve District
covered it with a clay cap. Private and public wells within 3 miles of the site provide drinking
water to 44,000 people. The Forest Preserve District continues to monitor the landfill. A lake
close to the landfill has been closed to swimming as a precautionary measure.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
In 1984, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were detected in numerous monitoring
wells installed around the site. Because the site was capped after closure of the
landfill, there do not appear to be any potential threats to people using the site for
recreational purposes.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
43
April 1991
-------
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1987, the Forest Preserve District began pumping leachate
from collection manholes. Since the 1970s, over 50 monitoring wells have been installed
around the site.
Entire Site: The Forest Preserve District initiated an investigation in 1989, under EPA
monitoring, to determine the type and extent of contamination at the site and to identify
alternative technologies for the cleanup. Field work is expected to begin in mid-1991.
This investigation is scheduled for completion in 1993.
Site Facts: In 1989, the Forest Preserve District signed an Administrative Order on Consent with
the EPA and the State, under which the District agreed to perform an investigation into site
contamination.
Environmental Progress
The installation of monitoring wells and removal of leachate from the Dupage County Landfill/
Blackwell Forest Preserve site have reduced the potential for exposure to contaminated materials
while cleanup activities are being planned.
April 1991
44
DUPAGE COUNTY LANDFILL/
BLACKWELL FOREST PRESERVE
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GALESBURG/
KOPPERS CO.
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD990817991
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 17
Knox County
2 miles south of Galesburg
Other Names:
Burlington Northern Rail Yard
Koppers Co./Galesburg
Site Description
The Galesburg/Koppers Co. site covers 105 acres near Galesburg. The Burlington Northern
Railroad Company operated the site as a railroad tie treatment plant from 1907 until 1966. In 1966,
the Koppers Company leased the production plant from the railroad and assumed operation of the
facility. Treatment operations consisted of pressure-treating the railroad ties with a mixture of
creosote and coal tar or creosote and fuel oil. The facility treats 600,000 to 800,000 cross ties a year.
From 1971 to 1976, pentachlorophenol (PCP) was used in the treatment process. Key contaminated
areas at the site include a slurry pond, a northern and southern creosote lagoon, a PCP-contaminated
lagoon, a waste pile storage area, two backfilled drainage ditches, and two former wastewater spray
fields. Contamination has been found in soil, groundwater, surface water, and sediment. Between
1966 and 1980, lagoons were cleaned and closed, used oil was recycled, and the wastewater spray
fields were constructed. Approximately 60,000 residents live in Galesburg. The area near the site is
residential, agricultural, and commercial/industrial. The economy is dependent on livestock and
agricultural products such as hogs, beef cattle, and corn. Brush Creek, an intermittent stream located
adjacent to the site, flows southeast to Lake Bracken, which is about 2 miles downstream.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
T
Air contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phenols, and petrochemicals. VOCs,
asbestos, heavy metals, phenols, and PCP are present in the groundwater. Sediments
contain heavy metals, VOCs, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and pesticides. Soil is
contaminated with dioxins, phenol, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Surface water contains VOCs, asbestos, and heavy metals. Fish in Lake Bracken are
contaminated with PCBs and PAHs. People who come in direct contact with or
accidentally ingest contaminated groundwater, soil, surface water, or sediments may be at
risk. On-site workers and nearby residents potentially could be exposed to contaminants
by inhaling dust. Those who eat contaminated fish from Lake Bracken may suffer
adverse health effects. Wildlife in and around the lake and Brush Creek also may be
harmed by the pollutants.
45
Aprill 991
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: interim actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing
on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: The PCP lagoon was pumped dry, and the water was treated in 1983.
The contaminated soils from the lagoons also were removed and disposed of off site.
Excavated soil from the area around the treatment building is being stored in piles on site.
Entire Site: In 1989, the State selected a remedy to clean up the site by: (1) excavating
contaminated soil and consolidating it on site and then removing contaminants with a
biological treatment called bioremediation; (2) constructing shallow groundwater
interceptor trenches and deep pumping wells to extract groundwater; (3) pre-treating the extracted
groundwater using an existing wastewater treatment system to remove contaminants and then
discharging the treated water to the Galesburg Sanitary District treatment works for final treatment;
(4) monitoring the groundwater and soil to ensure the effectiveness of the cleanup; and (5)
implementing land use restrictions. Koppers Company, under State supervision, is designing the
technical specifications for the cleanup of the site. The design phase is scheduled to begin in 1992
and is expected to be completed in 1994, after which the cleanup activities will begin.
Environmental Progress
The cleanup and treatment of the soils and water from the PCP-contaminated lagoon on the
Galesburg/Koppers Co. site have reduced the potential for exposure to hazardous materials on the
site while design of the tec hnical specifications and the final cleanup activities are being planned.
April 1991 46 GALESBURG/KOPPERS CO.
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H.O.D. LANDE
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980605836
Site Description
?'
I .
>>'.
V>
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 13
Lake County
Antioch
Other Names:
CCD Landfill
^ '^t s $*fff A" ,
%$SK?t < »'<*,./*
,:^i, »*,**«i*?i
f 4 X' ss '% '
> " / /, ^i'*f
.»: ' ?^<,
The H.O.D. Landfill covers 50 acres of an 80-acre parcel of land. Liquid organic and drummed
wastes were disposed of at the landfill from 1963 to 1984, and the site is now closed. One tanker
dumped wastes containing high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Groundwater
downgradient of the site contains zinc, lead, and cadmium. The closest residence is within 100 feet
of the landfill. Approximately 14,300 people live within 3 miles of the site. Approximately 40
private wells used for domestic water purposes are located within 3 miles of the landfill. Five public
water supply wells are in the vicinity, with the closest being 600 feet away, and these wells serve
approximately 4,600 people. The site is adjacent to a freshwater wetland. Sequoit Creek also is
adjacent to the landfill and flows into a series of lakes used for recreation.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 09/18/85
Final Date: 02/21/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and
heavy metals including cadmium, lead, zinc, and manganese. People who come in direct
contact with or drink contaminated groundwater may potentially be at risk. If
contaminants seep from the site into Sequoit Creek or the wetlands area, wildlife in or
around the water may be harmed.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the
entire site.
47
April 1991
-------
Response Action Status
Entire Site: An investigation to determine the nature and extent of contamination at the
site currently is underway. Groundwater, soil, sediments, surface water, and air will be
sampled to measure the levels of contamination. Upon completion of the investigation,
scheduled for 1993, measures will be recommended to clean up the landfill.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined that
no immediate actions were required at the H.O.D. Landfill site while site investigations are
underway.
April 1991
48
H.O.D. LANDFILL
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ILADA ENERGY CO,
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980996789
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 22
Alexander County
East Cape Giradeau
Site Description
The 20-acre Dada Energy Co. site is located in East Cape Giradeau. The Federal government
operated a fuel oil storage/transfer terminal on the site from 1942 until the early or mid-1950s
and placed oil in 17 tanks with a capacity in excess of 11 million gallons. In the late 1950s, the
government deeded the site back to its original owner. The site remained vacant until 1981,
when the Ilada Energy Co. purchased and operated it as a waste oil reclamation facility from
1981 to 1983. As part of its operations, Dada removed bottom sediment and water from the
waste oil and blended it to obtain the desired heat content. The "cleaned" oil then was sold to
commercial enterprises. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) conducted an
inspection of the operations and facilities at the site in 1982. During this visit, IEPA found that
Ilada was improperly storing, handling, mixing, and disposing of waste oils contaminated with
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Ilada burned the PCB-laden waste oil in an on-site boiler. Of
the 17 tanks on site, 11 contained oil contaminated with chlorinated organic solvents, metals, and
other elemental constituents of PCBs. The IEPA also observed oily material spilling and leaking
onto the ground, under the valves of the tanks, and in the designated loading and unloading
areas. Although the site borders the Mississippi River, it is protected against floods by a levee
that borders the southern edge of the site. The site is located in a sparsely populated area that is
relatively flat. An estimated 500 people obtain drinking water from wells located within 3 miles
of the site. Approximately 130 people live within a mile of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through a
combination of Federal, State, and
potentially responsible parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater is contaminated with the heavy metals zinc and arsenic.
Liquid oily wastes are contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
PCBs, and heavy metals including lead, arsenic, and zinc. On-site surface soils
are contaminated with PCBs and heavy metals. The potential exists for site-
related contaminants to migrate off site into the sole source drinking water supply
of the area residents. Additionally, agricultural lands and the nearby Mississippi
River could be adversely affected by oil wastes and associated contaminants from
the site.
49
April 1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The IEPA installed six monitoring wells on the site in 1986.
Subsequent sampling of these wells showed that two of them were contaminated with
arsenic. The EPA ordered the potentially responsible parties to remove the PCB-
contaminated waste oil tanks and to decontaminate the tanks, associated piping, and on-site
structures. Cleanup activities were started in 1989. All tanks and their contents, as well as visibly
contaminated soils, have been removed from the site. Access to the site is restricted by a fence
surrounding the site. Both of the site's access gates have been padlocked and posted with warning
signs by the EPA, and the site is guarded on a 24-hour basis.
Entire Site: The potentially responsible parties, under monitoring by the EPA, have
begun a study into the nature and extent of contamination at the site and the most effective
methods of addressing this contamination. The study is expected to be completed in 1992.
Site Facts: The EPA filed a complaint against the Ilada Energy Co. in 1983 for PCB violations
under the Toxic Substances Control Act. The company signed a Consent Decree with the EPA to
clean up the site, but abandoned the site before taking any action. In 1989, the potentially
responsible parties signed a Consent Order with the EPA to perform the investigation into the nature
and extent of contamination at the site. Also in 1989, the parties signed a Unilateral Administrative
Order with the EPA to conduct the removal actions necessary at the site.
Environmental Progress
By constructing a fence and posting a 24-hour guard at the Ilada Energy Co. site, the potential for
people to be exposed to hazardous materials has been greatly reduced. The removal of contaminated
tanks and their contents and some contaminated soils has been completed and further studies leading
to solutions for permanent cleanup of the entire site are taking place.
April 1991
50 ILADA ENERGY CO.
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INTERSTATE
POLLUTION
CONTROL, INQ.
ILLINOIS
EPA ID#ILT180011975
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Winnebago County
Rockford
Other Names:
Roto-Rooter Service, Inc.
The Interstate Pollution Control site is 2 to 4 acres in size and is located in a heavily industrialized
section of Rockford. Interstate Pollution Control, a division of Roto-Rooter Service, Inc., operated a
hazardous waste storage facility at the site from 1974 until 1982. Activities performed by Interstate
Pollution Control included hauling, and sometimes storing, waste oils, solvents, and cyanide-
containing plating wastes from at least 30 to 40 local industries. Most recent activities at the site
include reclaiming or "cleaning" waste oil for resale. Both the Illinois and U.S. Environmental
Protection Agencies have documented a history of poor operating practices at the site, including
using unlined surface impoundments and leaking storage tanks and drums. Due to pressure from
these two agencies, Interstate Pollution Control removed leaking drums and contaminated soil from
the site. The EPA detected various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in off-site wells located
downgradient of the site in 1986.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Off-site groundwater, located in wells downgradient of the site, is contaminated with
VOCs. On-site soil contains heavy metals such as cadmium and copper. Since parts of
the fence surrounding the site are broken, it is possible for trespassers to come into direct
contact with contaminants on site. If site-related contaminants should migrate from the
affected off-site wells into the municipal drinking water supply of the City of Rockford,
people could be exposed to contaminants when consuming or coming into direct contact
with drinking water.
51
April 1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing on
cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: The EPA has proposed several initial actions for this site including:
fencing the site, repair of the cap, removal of the substances in the tanks on the site, and
removal of the tanks.
Entire Site: The State negotiated with some of the potentially responsible parties to
conduct an investigation into the nature and extent of site contamination. This
investigation is expected to begin in 1991. After all the various alternatives for cleaning
up the site are considered, the most effective remedies will be chosen.
Environmental Progress
After listing the Interstate Pollution Control, Inc. site on the NPL, the EPA and the State performed
preliminary evaluations and proposed several actions to reduce risks while the investigations leading
to the selection of final remedies are taking place. These initial actions are scheduled to begin in
1991.
April 1991 52 INTERSTATE POLLUTION CONTROL, INC.
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JOHNS-MANV
CORP.
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD005443544
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 10
Lake County
Waukegan, 37 miles north of Chicago
Site Description
The Johns-Manville Corp. site covers 120 acres on a 300-acre parcel of land in Waukegan. The
plant presently produces a wide range of building materials. Since 1922, waste materials containing
primarily asbestos, the heavy metals lead and chrome, and the volatile organic compound (VOC)
xylene have been deposited in a variety of pits. No asbestos or lead presently is used in the
manufacturing process. The active waste disposal pits include the sludge disposal pit, which
receives dredged materials from the on-site wastewater treatment system, and the miscellaneous
disposal pit, into which asbestos- and non-asbestos-containing wastes are deposited. Waste
materials cover a large portion of the disposal area and form a berm that is approximately 25 to 30
feet high. The disposal site is located in an industrial area, and the nearest residential area is about
1/2 mile northwest of the site. The population of Waukegan is 67,500. Approximately 1,800 day
workers and 450 night workers are at the site during a work day, and about 5,000 people are present
in the general area during the day shifts. The site is bordered by Lake Michigan and Illinois Beach
State Park, both of which are used daily for recreation. Local fishermen use a pier located between
the Johns-Manville and Commonwealth Edison facilities.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Air sampled in the site vicinity contains asbestos fibers. Groundwater contains asbestos,
arsenic, and several VOCs. Waste materials and sludge are contaminated with asbestos,
heavy metals and VOCs. The most significant threat to human health is through the
inhalation of asbestos fibers. The site is dusty during dry periods and poses health
concerns to the surrounding communities and to the on-site workers. Asbestos in the
waste materials is a limited public health concern, unless it is dispersed by wind or water.
People who drink the contaminated groundwater may suffer adverse health effects.
53
April 1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
directed at cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: The asbestos pit was closed in 1989, and the soil cover was
completed in 1990 by the potentially responsible parties.
Entire Site: In 1987, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the site which includes:
(1) disposing of the asbestos-containing material generated from the reconstruction
activities in the asbestos disposal pit prior to closure; (2) monitoring the soil cover,
groundwater, surface water, and the air; (3) clearing the debris on the site; (4) fencing the eastern
boundary and posting warning signs; (5) closing a small ditch and the open area at the
miscellaneous disposal pit:, and (6) sampling to ensure the effectiveness of the remedy. All
cleanup activities outlined in the remedy have been completed. A work plan for additional soil
cover was completed in 1990. High asbestos levels in groundwater and surface water may
trigger a contingency plan for their cleanup. During cleanup operations, additional asbestos-
contaminated areas were discovered. These new areas are expected to be cleaned up by 1991.
Environmental Progress
By sealing off the asbestos pit and covering the contaminated soil to reduce the migration of asbestos
fibers into the air and groundwater, the potential for exposure to hazardous materials at the John-
Manville site has been significantly reduced. The EPA currently is addressing the remaining
asbestos contamination and will continue to monitor the soil cover and asbestos levels.
April 1991 54 JOHNS-MANVILLE CORP.
-------
JOLIET ARMY AMMU
PLANT (LOAD-A
PACKING AREA)
ILLINOIS
EPA ID#IL0210090049
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 15
Will County
Joliet
The Joliet Army Ammunition Plant (Load-Assembly-Packing Area) covers 22 square miles on an
inactive Army munitions installation in Joliet. The installation is divided into two major functional
areas: the Manufacturing Area, which is a separate National Priorities List site, and the Load-
Assembly-Packing Area. From the early 1940s until 1977, high explosive artillery projectiles, aerial
bombs, and a variety of ammunition component items were loaded, assembled, and packaged at this
site. Other activities included testing of ammunition, washout and renovation of projectiles, and
burning and demolition of explosives. Since 1977, the plant has been maintained in non-operating
standby condition by Uniroyal, the contractor/operator. The main source of wastewater produced by
the facility was "pink water" created by the washout of rejected bombs and from washing the
equipment and floors. Approximately 250 people live within 3 miles of the site and depend on
groundwater for drinking water. The nearest residence is less than 1/2 mile away. About 40 water
supply wells are used for drinking water within 3 miles of the plant. The surface water on the site
flows into the Des Plaines and Kankakee Rivers, and Kemery Lake is within the site area. About
2,500 acres of the site are used for commercial agriculture. An active land-leasing program exists,
with more than 80 agricultural and cattle grazing leases being exercised. The surface water is used
for recreational activities, and a fishing program exists on site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 04/1Q/85
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater, sediments, soils, and surface water are contaminated with trinitrotoluene
(TNT), other explosive by-products, and heavy metals including lead, mercury,
chromium, and cadmium. Potential health threats include coming in direct contact with
or accidentally ingesting contaminated groundwater, soil, surface water, or sediments. In
addition, contaminants may accumulate in fish, waterfowl, livestock, and commercial
agricultural products and can pose a health threat to those who eat them.
55
April 1991
-------
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, the Army began investigating the type and extent of contamination
at the plant. The investigation is scheduled for completion in 1993. Once the study is
completed, the most timely and effective measures will be recommended for site cleanup.
Site Facts: An Interagency Agreement was signed with the EPA in 1989. Under the terms of this
agreement, the Army will investigate and clean up the contamination found on the site. The site 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 al military or other DoD facilities.
Environmental Progress
The Army is conducting investigations that will lead to the selection of final cleanup actions for the
Joliet Army Ammunition Plant (Load-Assembly-Packing Area) site. After preliminary evaluation, it
has been determined that the site does not present an immediate threat to the surrounding population
or the environment.
ApriM991 56 JOLIET ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT
(LOAD-ASSEMBLY-PACKING AREA)
-------
JOLIET ARMY AMMU
PLANT (MANUF
AREA)
ILLINOIS
EPA ID#IL7213820460
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 15
Will County
Joliet
The Joliet Army Ammunition Plant (Manufacturing Area) covers 14 square miles of an inactive
Army munitions facility in Joliet. The site consists of two areas: the manufacturing area that
produced constituent chemicals and explosive materials and the Load-Assembly-Packing Area,
which is listed as a separate site on the NPL. More than 4 billion pounds of explosives were
produced in the manufacturing area from the early 1940s until 1977. Since 1977, the area has been
maintained in non-operating standby condition by Uniroyal, the contractor/operator. The
manufacturing facility consists of a TNT ditch complex, where process wash and wastewater were
transported off site to be processed at water treatment facilities; the Red Water Area consisting of
storage tanks, incinerators, evaporators, a lined lagoon, and the incinerator ash piles; and the
Flashing Ground. During the manufacturing process, contaminated process waters and chemical
spills routinely were discharged without treatment into constructed drainage ditches, where they
flowed into Jackson Creek and Grant Creek. Unlined piles of incinerator ash and a leak in the liner
of one of several wastewater lagoons also have contributed to contamination of groundwater and
surface water. Approximately 1,155 people live within 3 miles of the site. The nearest residence is
less than 1/2 mile away, and there are water supply wells in use within a mile of the site. About
2,500 acres on the site are used for commercial agriculture. An active land-leasing program exists,
with more than 80 agricultural and cattle grazing leases being exercised.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 07/21/87
Threats and Contaminants
ZE
Groundwater is contaminated with trinitrotoluene (TNT) and related organic compounds.
Sediments, soil, and surface water contain TNT, lead, arsenic, and chromium. Potential
health threats include touching or accidentally ingesting contaminated groundwater, soil,
surface water or sediments. In addition, contaminants may accumulate in fish, waterfowl,
livestock, and commercial agricultural products and could pose a health threat to those
who eat them.
57
April 1991
-------
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 1985, over 7 million gallons of explosive-contaminated water
were removed from the Red Water Lagoon and transported to a federally approved facility
for disposal. Explosive-contaminated sludge and the lagoon liner also were removed, and
the area was covered with clay. In addition, two piles containing ash from past incineration of
explosives were re-capped.
Entire Site: In 1989, the Army began investigating the type and extent of the
contamination at the plant. The investigation is scheduled for completion in 1993.
Effective measures then will be recommended for site cleanup, based on the results of the
studies.
Site Facts: An Interagency Agreement was signed between the Army and the EPA in June 1989.
Under this agreement, the Army will investigate and clean up the contamination on the site. The site
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 waste contaminants at military or other DoD facilities.
Environmental Progress
Removing the wastewater and sludge and capping the area have greatly reduced the threat of
exposure to or the spread of hazardous materials. The Army is conducting investigations that will
lead to the selection of final cleanup actions for the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant (Manufacturing
Area) site.
April 1991 58 JOLIET ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT
(MANUFACTURING AREA)
-------
KERR-MCGEE (KRESS
CREEK/WEST BR
OF DUPAGE RIVE
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD980823991
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 14
DuPage County
West Chicago
Other Names:
West Branch of DuPage River
The Kerr-McGee (Kress Creek/West Branch of DuPage River) site covers about 1 1/2 miles of Kress
Creek and 1/2 mile of the West Branch of the DuPage River in West Chicago. In 1931, the Lindsay
Light and Chemical Company established a mill in West Chicago for extracting thorium and non-
radioactive elements from monazite and other ores. Later, the mill was used for the manufacture of
gaslight mantles (which contain thorium), mesothorium, and, during World War n, hydrofluoric
acid. Ownership of the facility changed from Lindsay to American Potash and Chemical in 1958
and to Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation in 1967. The primary activity at Kerr-McGee was the
processing of ores containing thorium, radium, uranium, rare earths, and heavy metals such as lead.
The waste materials from these operations were sent to numerous areas within the City of West
Chicago. The main sites include: the Kress Creek and West Branch area, which receives runoff
from the Rare Earth Facility; the City sewage treatment plant; Reed-Keppler Park, a public park; and
117 additional properties. Operations continued at the site until Kerr-McGee closed the plant in
1973. Over the years, a portion of the wastes from the plant were discharged into Kress Creek, a
tributary of the DuPage River, either by storm sewer or drainage ditch. Radiation contamination,
which is found to a depth of several feet along the stream, decreases with distance from the creek.
Many of the highest levels of contamination were found near the storm sewer outfall. Kerr-McGee
(Reed-Keppler Park), Kerr-McGee (Residential Areas), and the Kerr-McGee (Sewage Treatment
Plant) are listed as separate sites on the NPL. Approximately 20,000 people live within 3 miles of
the site. Drinking water in the area is obtained by municipal or private wells.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 02/08/91
Threats and Contaminants
Sediments and Kress Creek contain radioactive wastes. People who come in direct
contact with or accidentally ingest the contaminated water in Kress Creek may suffer
adverse health effects. In addition, wildlife in and around the creek may be harmed by
the radiation.
59
April 1991
-------
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 1983, Kerr-McGee began an investigation of the Kress Creek area. Once
the investigation is completed, the EPA will select a final cleanup remedy.
Site Facts: In 1984, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued an Order to Show
Cause, requiring Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation either to prepare and implement a cleanup plan,
or to show just cause why it should not be required to do so. In 1985, Kerr-McGee and the City of
West Chicago entered into a Consent Decree to excavate, remove contaminants, and decontaminate
the sites. To date, Kerr-McGee has not removed any contamination from the creek.
Environmental Progress
After listing the Kerr-McGee (Kress Creek/West Branch of DuPage River) site on the NPL, the EPA
performed preliminary evaluations and determined that the site does not pose an immediate threat to
the public or the environment while the investigations leading to a permanent cleanup remedy for
this site and the three associated Kerr-McGee sites are taking place.
ADril1991 60 KERR-MCGEE (KRESS CREEK/WEST
RANCH OF DUPAGE RIVER'I
-------
KERR-MCGEE (REE
KEPPLER
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980824007
0
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 14
DuPage County
West Chicago
The Kerr-McGee (Reed-Keppler Park) site covers about 11 acres in West Chicago. In 1931, the
Lindsay Light and Chemical Company established a mill in West Chicago for extracting thorium and
non-radioactive elements from monazite and other ores. Later, the mill was used for the
manufacture of gaslight mantles (which contain thorium), mesothorium, and during World War II,
hydrofluoric acid. Ownership of the facility changed from Lindsay to American Potash and
Chemical in 1958 and to Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation in 1967. The primary activity at Kerr-
McGee was the processing of ores containing thorium, radium, uranium, rare earths, and heavy
metals such as lead. The waste materials from these operations were dispersed among numerous
areas within the City of West Chicago. The main sites include: the Kress Creek and West Branch
area, which receives runoff from the Rare Earth Facility; the City sewage treatment plant; Reed-
Keppler Park, a public park; and 117 additional properties. Operations continued at the site until
Kerr-McGee closed the plant in 1973. Radioactive materials were landfilled at Reed-Keppler Park,
which originally had been a gravel quarry. The contaminated areas are within the landfill and
around and under the tennis courts adjacent to it. For additional information, please see the other
listings for Kerr-McGee (Residential Areas), Kerr-McGee (Sewage Treatment Plant), and Kerr-
McGee (Kress Creek/West Branch), all listed as separate NPL sites. Approximately 15,000 people
live within 3 miles of the site. The closest residence to the park is about 250 feet away. There are
several private wells 2,000 feet from the park.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
The air and groundwater contain radioactive wastes. Soil contains heavy metals and
radioactive wastes. People who come in direct contact with or accidentally ingest
contaminated groundwater and soil may be at risk.
61
April 1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: interim actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing
on cleanup of the entire site;.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: In 1986, approximately 20,000 cubic yards of thorium mill tailings at
the park were excavated and moved to a fenced area.
Reed-Keppler Park: In 1983, Kerr-McGee began an investigation of the Reed-Keppler
Park area. Once the investigation is completed, the EPA will select a final cleanup
remedy.
Site Facts: In 1984, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued an Order to Show
Cause, requiring Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation either to prepare and implement a cleanup plan,
or to show just cause why it should not be required to do so. In 1985, Kerr-McGee and the City of
West Chicago entered into a Consent Decree to excavate and to decontaminate the sites.
Environmental Progress
The removal of mill tailings from the park has significantly reduced the potential for exposure to
radioactive materials at the Kerr-McGee (Reed-Keppler Park) site, while investigations leading to
final cleanup actions take place.
April 1991 62 KERR-MCGEE (REED-KEPPLER PARK)
-------
KERR-MCGEE
(RESIDENTIAL
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980824015
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 14
DuPage County
West Chicago
The Kerr-McGee (Residential Areas) site covers about 30 acres adjacent to the Kerr-McGee
Chemical Corporation facility, as well as other adjacent areas and isolated spots of elevated
radiation levels in West Chicago. In 1931, the Lindsay Light and Chemical Company
established a mill in West Chicago for extracting thorium and non-radioactive elements from
monazite and other ores. Later, the mill was used for the manufacture of gaslight mantles (which
contain thorium), mesothorium, and, during World War n, hydrofluoric acid. Ownership of the
facility changed from Lindsay to American Potash and Chemical in 1958 and to Kerr-McGee
Chemical Corporation in 1967. The primary activity at Kerr-McGee was the processing of ores
containing thorium, radium, uranium, rare earths, and heavy metals such as lead. The waste
materials from these operations were dispersed among numerous areas within the City of West
Chicago. The main sites include: the Kress Creek and West Branch area, which receives runoff
from the Rare Earth Facility; the City sewage treatment plant; Reed-Keppler Park, a public park;
and 117 additional properties. Operations continued at the site until Kerr-McGee closed the
plant in 1973. In 1978, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission located 75 spots of elevated
radiation levels. Since that time, the number has grown to approximately 117. Although the
general area of contamination may be due, in part, to long-term emissions from the facility, the
primary source of contamination is believed to be the result of specific incidents such as spills or
the use of contaminated material as fill. The Kerr-McGee (Reed-Keppler Park), Kerr-McGee
(Kress Creek/West Branch), and Kerr-McGee (Sewage Treatment Plant) sites all are being
treated as separate sites on the NPL. Approximately 15,000 people live within 3 miles of the
site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Soil is contaminated with radioactive wastes. People who are exposed to elevated
levels of radiation in the soils may suffer adverse health effects.
63
April 1991
-------
Cleanup Approach
The site is being addressed in two stages: interim actions and a long-term remedial phase directed at
cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Interim Actions: Kerr-McGee voluntarily has removed soils from many affected
residences and has placed the material at a facility for temporary storage.
Entire Site: Iri 1983, Kerr-McGee began an investigation of the residential areas. Once
the investigation is completed, the EPA will select a final cleanup remedy.
Site Facts: In 1984, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued an Order to Show
Cause, requiring Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation to either prepare and implement a cleanup plan,
or to show just cause why it should not be required to do so. In 1985, Kerr-McGee and the City of
West Chicago entered into a Consent Decree to excavate, remove contaminants, and decontaminate
the sites.
EnvironmentaS Progress
The removal of some of the contaminated soil from the Kerr-McGee (Residential Areas) site has
helped to reduce the potential of exposure to hazardous materials while the investigations leading to
the selection of the final cleanup remedies are taking place.
April 1991 64 KERR-MCGEE (RESIDENTIAL AREAS)
-------
KERR-MCGEE (SEW
TREATMENT
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980824031
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 14
DuPage County
West Chicago
The Kerr-McGee (Sewage Treatment Plant) site covers about 23 acres in West Chicago. In 1931,
the Lindsay Light and Chemical Company established a mill in West Chicago for extracting thorium
and non-radioactive elements from monazite and other ores. Later, the mill was used for the
manufacture of gaslight mantles (which contain thorium), mesothorium, and, during World War II,
hydrofluoric acid. Ownership of the facility changed from Lindsay to American Potash and
Chemical in 1958 and to Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation in 1967. The primary activity at Kerr-
McGee was the processing of ores containing thorium, radium, uranium, rare earths, and heavy
metals such as lead. The waste materials from these operations were sent to numerous areas within
the City of West Chicago. The main sites include: the Kress Creek and West Branch area, which
receives runoff from the Rare Earth Facility; the City sewage treatment plant; Reed-Keppler Park, a
public park; and 117 additional properties. Operations continued at the site until Kerr-McGee closed
the plant in 1973. The original sewage treatment plant was built in 1919 and included two septic
tanks. Over the years, the tanks were filled with radioactive materials. Additionally, fill, including
radioactive materials, was placed in other areas of the site. While modernizing the plant, the City
has located many surface and subsurface areas of the contamination. For additional information,
please see the listings for Kerr-McGee (Reed-Keppler Park), Kerr-McGee (Residential Areas), and
Kerr-McGee (Kress Creek/West Branch), all listed separately on the NPL. Approximately 15,000
people live within 3 miles of the site. The surrounding area is low-density residential, with forests to
the north of the plant There are thorium mill tailings on the west bank of the DuPage River, and the
closest residences are on the eastern side of the river. The closest house is about 300 feet from the
tailings.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater contains radioactive wastes and heavy metals. Soil at the site contains
radioactive wastes. People who are exposed to radioactive-contaminated groundwater
and soil may suffer adverse health effects.
65
April 1991
-------
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 1986, Kerr-McGee removed soils from the sewage treatment
plant and placed the material in a facility for temporary storage-
Entire Site: In 1983, Kerr-McGee began an investigation of the sewage treatment plant.
Once the investigation is completed, measures will be recommended for site cleanup. The
EPA then will select the final cleanup remedy from these recommendations.
Site Facts: In 1984, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued an Order to Show
Cause, requiring Kerr-McGee Chemical Corporation either to prepare and implement a cleanup plan,
or to show why it should riot be required to do so. In 1985, Kerr-McGee and the City of West
Chicago entered into a Consent Decree to excavate, remove contaminants, and decontaminate the
site.
Environmental Progress
Removal of some of the contaminated soil from the Kerr-McGee (Sewage Treatment Plant) site
has helped to reduce the potential for exposure to hazardous materials while the investigations
leading to the selection of a permanent remedy for the site are taking place.
April 1991 66 KERR-MCGEE (SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT)
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LASALLE ELECTRIC
UTILITIES
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD980794333
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 14
LaSalle County
LaSalle
From the late 1940s to 1978, the 10-acre LaSalle Electric Utilities (LEU) site was used to
manufacture capacitors containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Operations ceased in 1981,
and the site now is abandoned. The company reportedly used waste oil to control dust in the parking
lot and off site until 1969. Several hundred drums of PCB wastes, many of which were leaking,
were found stored in a wooden shed. A tank truck containing PCB-contaminated wastes was found
near a storm drain manhole. Leakage from these containers may have reached the storm sewer
system and surface water tributary to the Illinois River. An aboveground storage tank discovered on
site contained 940 gallons of trichloroethylene (TCE). Additionally, PCB-contaminated soil was
stockpiled on site. PCBs have been found on the shoulder of the road that passes in front of the LEU
site. This contaminated area covers approximately 1 1/2 miles and passes in front of a school and a
recreational park. Approximately 190 people reside within 1/8 mile of the site; 3,400 people live
within a mile of the site, and approximately 21,000 people live within 3 miles of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater, surface water, sediments, soil, and the buildings on site are contaminated
with PCBs. The buildings also are contaminated with asbestos. Primary health threats
include coming in direct contact with or accidentally ingesting contaminated
groundwater, surface water, sediments, or soil. PCB leakage from the drums on site
could reach the storm sewer system and tributaries of the Illinois River.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on off-site soil cleanup and on-site soil, sediments, and groundwater cleanup.
67
April 1991
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Response Action Status
Initial Actions: Between 1982 and 1985, the EPA completed several activities in order
to stabilize the contaminated areas including: (1) installing warning signs, a barbed wire
fence, and a gate around the site; (2) capping the property; (3) constructing four on-site
monitoring wells; (4) capping contaminated off-site areas; (5) staging, sampling, and packaging PCB
waste materials for future disposal; and (6) draining 15 vertical tanks and five diffusion pump
reservoirs inside the LaSalle Electric building into five drums. The drums containing PCB materials
were moved to a diked and lined storage area inside the warehouse. A retention pond was expanded
to control on-site drainage, stained soil was excavated from under the tank trailer, and the excavated
soil was placed into drum?;. The tank containing TCE was removed from the site for reuse.
Off-Site Soil: Based on the results of the site investigations, the EPA selected the
following remedies to clean up the site: (1) excavating approximately 23,550 cubic yards
of contaminated off-site soil and replacing it with clean fill; (2) incinerating contaminated
soils with a thermal destruction unit; and (3) implementing conventional industrial cleaning to
include vacuuming, hand washing, and steam jet cleaning of all structures where soil removal
activities have taken place. The State began cleanup activities in 1987 by excavating the
contaminated off-site soil and replacing it with the clean fill. Following this action, buildings in the
area were cleaned, and the ventilation systems were scrubbed. The remaining soil incineration and
final work on the site cleanup was completed in 1990; remaining details will be completed in 1991.
As a safety measure to avoid the inhalation of possible airborne contaminated particulates by the
residents, approximately 30 families and two businesses were relocated during excavations and until
homes were cleaned up.
On-Site Soil, Sediments, and Groundwater: In 1988, a decision was reached by
the State to perform the following cleanup actions: (1) excavating contaminated soil from
the LaSalle Electric Utilities property; (2) high-pressure flushing and mechanical cleaning
of contaminated sewer lines; (3) excavating contaminated sediment from the unnamed creek
downstream of the storm sewer discharge; (4) incinerating the contaminated soil and sediment with a
thermal destruction unit; (5) demolishing and disposing of the contaminated LEU buildings; (6)
constructing a groundwatex collection system on or near the LEU property; and (7) constructing an
on-site treatment system that will process the collected contaminated groundwater. Cleanup
activities began in 1990. The State is preparing a trial burn for the incinerator. The cleanup
activities are expected to be completed in 1993.
Environmental Progress
Securing the site, containing contaminated soil through capping, and excavating and incinerating the
PCB wastes have greatly reduced the potential for exposure to hazardous materials at the LaSalle
Electric Utilities site while further cleanup activities are being started.
April 1991 68 LASALLE ELECTRIC UTILITIES
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LENZ OIL
SERVICE, INC
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD005451711
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 04
Cook County
Lemont
Site Description
Lenz Oil Service, Inc. operated an oil and solvent storage and transfer facility under several
different owners for over 20 years. In 1980, Charles Russell purchased the company and began a
waste management operation at the site. In 1981, the company received a permit from the Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) to accept hazardous waste. In 1985, three surface
impoundments were used to store hazardous waste. Also at the site were 3 underground unlined
concrete storage tanks, 35 aboveground tanks, and 200 drums. In 1985, the Illinois Attorney
General's Office required Lenz Oil and Charles Russell to begin an immediate cleanup and to file a
closure and compliance plan. In 1986, Lenz Oil filed for bankruptcy. The IEPA performed soil
sampling at the site in 1986 and found it to be contaminated with high levels of volatile organic
compounds (VOCs). Private residential wells adjacent to the site are contaminated, but these homes
have been connected to alternate water supplies. Approximately 11,300 people live within 3 miles
of the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Threats and Contaminants
ZE
Groundwater and soils are contaminated with various VOCs. Private wells adjacent
to the site also are contaminated. Drinking contaminated groundwater may pose a
potential health threat, and direct contact with VOC-contaminated soils may be a
health threat.
69
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1986, the State provided an alternate water supply to residences
having contaminated wells. The State subsequently performed surface soil cleanup
activities in 1989, which included the incineration of 21,000 tons of contaminated soil.
Entire Site: A group of over 200 potentially responsible parties agreed to perform a study
to determine the nature and extent of contamination at the site. The study began in 1989
and includes analyzing samples taken from surface and subsurface soils, sediments, and
surface waters as well as the installation of wells to monitor soil gas. Based on the results of the
investigations, expected to be completed in 1992, various cleanup alternatives will be recommended,
from which the EPA will select the final remedy.
Site Facts: Additional potentially responsible party groups have joined the original group of 199
to voluntarily perform the site investigation.
Environmental Progress
The incineration of contaminated soil and the provision of an alternate water supply have greatly
reduced the potential for exposure to hazardous substances at the Lenz Oil Service, Inc. site while
further investigations are taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
April 1991 70 LENZ OIL SERVICE, INC.
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MIG/DEWANE
LANDFILL
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980497788
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Boone County
Belvidere
Other Names:
MIG Investment
Bonus Landfill
Boone Landfill
Kennedy Landfill
Dewane Landfill (MIG)
The 50-acre MIG/Dewane Landfill site began accepting household refuse and special wastes such as
paint sludges and organic solvents in 1969. Reportedly, 480,000 gallons of hazardous wastes were
dumped into the landfill. Portions of the landfill are not covered, and leachate has been observed
moving off site. The site ceased operations in 1988, when the State sued the landfill owner for
exceeding its permit authority. Approximately 10 acres of the site contain exposed wastes. The
State pumps out a leachate collection lagoon periodically to keep it from overflowing. There are
approximately 16,300 people who obtain drinking water from wells within 3 miles of the site. The
site is located near Belvidere's municipal water wells and private wells. One municipal well and
28% of the area's private wells are obtaining water from the upper aquifer. A private well is 2,500
feet from a contaminated well on the site. The site is located about 1,000 feet from the Kishwaukee
River.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/26/89
Final Date: 08/30/90
Threats and Contaminants
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been detected in groundwater under the site.
Heavy metals including arsenic, cyanide, lead, and zinc have been detected in leachate
samples. Potential health threats to people include drinking and coming in direct contact
with contaminated groundwater and leachate.
71
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This 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 June 1989, the EPA removed 85,000 gallons of leachate from
the on-site leachate lagoon. The leachate was transported to a nearby sewage treatment
plant and discharged. In June 1990, the EPA removed 75,000 gallons of leachate from the
same lagoon.
Entire Site: A thorough investigation will be conducted by the potentially responsible
party, under EPA and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) monitoring, to
determine the nature and extent of the contamination at the site. Based upon the study
results, final cleanup remedies will be selected.
Site Facts: A three-part) Consent Order was signed in early 1991. Under this Order, the
potentially responsible parties will perform the site studies under the supervision of the EPA and the
ffiPA.
Environmental Progress
The removal of approximately 160,000 gallons of leachate has reduced the potential for exposure to
hazardous materials at the MIG/Dewane Landfill site while studies to determine future cleanup
activities are being completed.
ApriM991 72 MIG/DEWANE LANDFILL
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NL INDUSTR
LEAD SMELT
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD09673U68
Site Description
\ EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 21
Madison County
Granite City
Other Names:
Hoyt Plant
National Lead Taracorp
Taracorp Industries Granite City Plant
Granite City Lead
Operations at the 16-acre NL Industries/Taracorp Lead Smelter site have included metal refining,
fabricating, and related activities since the turn of the century. Taracorp, Inc. purchased the facility
in 1979 from NL Industries, owners since 1928, and currently operates it as a metal fabrication
facility. Lead pollution in the area is believed to be partially a result of lead smelting conducted at
the site from 1905 until 1983. The smelter was used for purifying and reprocessing lead-containing
scrap, used batteries, and cable sheathing. Solid wastes generated from this process included blast
furnace slag, battery cases, and dust from the smelter's smoke stack. These wastes were stored on
site in waste piles. Another storage area of waste piles is located at the St. Louis Lead Recyclers
(SLLR) site, adjacent to the Taracorp, Inc. property. The wastes at SLLR were a result of recycling
the original waste piles. A third location of contamination attributed to the site is the remote fill
areas of Venice and Eagle Park Acres, where lead-containing battery case pieces allegedly were used
for fill and alley paving material. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (DBPA) began
monitoring air quality for lead in 1978. Between 1978 and 1981, air monitoring detected levels
exceeding Federal standards. In 1981, the State of Illinois was required by the EPA to develop a
plan to control and maintain Federal air quality standards for lead in Granite City. In 1982, the State
of Illinois denied an application for renewal of Taracorp's permit to operate the smelter, since the
primary source of lead pollution detected in area air and soil was from the Taracorp facility.
Taracorp, Inc. filed for bankruptcy in 1982. Approximately 15,000 people live within 1 mile of the
site, which is located within a heavily industrialized section of Granite City.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater in monitoring wells was found to be contaminated with dissolved solids,
sulfates, and manganese. Two on-site wells also contained heavy metals including
arsenic, cadmium, nickel, manganese, and zinc. Sediment samples from the stormwater
runoff areas and soils contained elevated levels of lead. Granite City's municipal
drinking water comes from the Mississippi River and does not appear to be affected by
contaminated groundwater. Potential health risks may exist from coming in direct
contact with or accidentally ingesting contaminated soils.
73
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
Response Action Statins
Entire Site: In 1990, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the site which includes: (1)
removing crush«:d hard rubber battery casings and lead-contaminated soil from residential
areas; (2) excavating and consolidating the soils, crushed casings, and lead-contaminated
materials from an adjacent waste pile into the existing Taracorp slag pile; (3) covering the Taracorp
pile with a cap; (4) installing an upgraded security fence around the Taracorp pile; (5) implementing
deed restrictions and other institutional controls; (6) inspecting alleys and driveways and areas
containing surficial battery- case material to determine if they must also be cleaned; (7) installing
monitoring wells; (8) mon:itoring groundwater, air, and the cap; (9) removing and recovering all
drums on the Taracorp pile at a secondary smelter; and (10) consolidating the waste contained in the
adjacent St. Louis Lead Rttcyclers piles with the Taracorp pile. The technical specifications for
cleanup currently are being designed under funding from the EPA and are expected to be completed
late in 1992.
Site Facts: In 1985, the EPA and the State signed a Consent Order with NL Industries, requiring
that the company conduct an investigation to determine the type and extent of contamination at the
site and to identify alternatives for cleanup. In 1991, the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers signed an Interagency Agreement to conduct the design phase of the selected remedy.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined that
no immediate actions were required at the NL Industries site while cleanup activities are being
designed.
April 1991 74 NL INDUSTRIES/TARACORP
^ LEAD SMELTER
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OUTBOARD
MARINE CORP,
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD000802827
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 10
Lake County
Waukegan
The Outboard Marine Corp. (OMC) site covers three separate areas: Waukegan Harbor, a 37-acre
area along the western shore of Lake Michigan; North Ditch, a small tributary approximately 1,500
feet north of the Harbor, and the OMC parking lot, a 9-acre lot south of North Ditch. Between 1959
and 1971, the Johnson Motors Division of OMC purchased hydraulic fluids containing
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The company used the material in aluminum die cast machines
that routinely leaked. In 1976, it was discovered that the company was discharging PCBs into
Waukegan Harbor and the North Ditch. Both of these water bodies flow into Lake Michigan. The
City of Waukegan has a population of approximately 68,000 and surrounds Waukegan Harbor. The
harbor area is zoned primarily for industrial and commercial use. There are approximately 15
businesses in the immediate harbor area and a worker population of about 3,500 people. People in
the area also use the harbor for various recreational activities.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/22/81
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater, surface water, sediments, and soils are contaminated with PCBs. The
primary way people could be exposed to hazardous chemicals from the site is to eat fish
contaminated with PCBs. Other potential health hazards include coming in direct contact
with or accidentally ingesting contaminated materials.
75
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the entire site
and the coal tar wastes.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1989, the EPA selected a remedy to clean up the site including: (1)
constructing a cut-off and slurry wall in a boat slip in the harbor to form a cell to contain
the contaminants; (2) constructing a new boat slip and relocating Larsen Marine; (3)
removing and treating sediments in the boat slip and placing contaminated sediments in the
containment cell of the new slip; (4) excavating and treating soil and sediments on site from the
lagoon area; (5) constructing a containment cell to treat residues and PCB-contarninated soils with
lower levels of contamination; (6) constructing a containment cell around the parking lot area; (7)
constructing a temporary facility on site to treat waste dredged from the containment cells; (8)
constructing a permanent facility on site to treat contaminated water; (9) treating water from the
containment cell on site by discharging the water to a facility that can treat the water; (10) placing a
cap on all containment cells; and (11) monitoring the groundwater. The potentially responsible
parties have nearly completed designing the technical specifications for the cleanup, under EPA
monitoring. Construction is expected to begin in 1991.
Coal Tar Wastes: Creosote and coal tar wastes were discovered during the technical
design of the remedy for the PCB-contaminated areas. A separate study is underway to
determine the nature and extent of contamination and to identify cleanup alternatives.
Site Facts: A Consent Decree was signed in 1986 by OMC. The potentially responsible parties
and the EPA entered into a Consent Decree in 1989, requiring the parties to perform the cleanup
activities on the site.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined that
no immediate actions were required at the Outboard Marine Corp. site while final cleanup activities
are being designed and planned.
April 1991 76 OUTBOARD MARINE CORP.
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PAGEL'S PIT
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980606685
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Winnebago County
Rockford
Site Description
The 90- to 100-acre Pagel's Pit site has been operated as a landfill since 1972. The pit is lined with
asphalt concrete, which has a coal tar sealer. The landfill accepted municipal refuse, sewage sludge,
and a limited amount of other wastes. The landfill is still operating. Access to the site is somewhat
restricted. Approximately 170 people live within a 1-mile radius of the site, and the nearest
residence is across the street from the site. The shallow aquifer under the site is a source of drinking
water to residents in the area. However, the groundwater tends to flow toward the west, while the
nearby residences are located along a road that runs to the eastern side of the site. The Winnebago
County Health Department tested the water and discovered it was contaminated with several volatile
organic compounds (VOCs). Some residents have home carbon treatment units for their water
supply due to the Acme Solvent contamination, another NPL site. This site is located approximately
1,500 feet east of Pagel's Pit. Killbuck Creek is located on the western perimeter of the site. Pagel's
Pit is located in a rural area.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Threats and Contaminants
Shallow groundwater under the site contains VOCs and arsenic. People potentially may
be exposed to hazardous chemicals from the site by coming in direct contact with or
ingesting contaminated groundwater. Killbuck Creek could become contaminated
through runoff from the site and groundwater discharge. However, the creek has not
been found to be affected by the site.
77
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed through two long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the entire
site and the southeastern portion of the site.
Response Action Status
Entire Site: In 1986, the EPA began a study of contamination at the site, but some of the
potentially responsible parties have taken it over. The parties are examining the type of
contaminants at the site and how far they have spread. This study also will identify
alternatives for addressing the problem and is expected to be completed in 1991.
Southeast Portion of Site: Studies to determine the nature and extent of
contamination in the southeastern corner of the site are planned to begin in 1992.
Site Facts: In 1986, the EPA negotiated a settlement with some of the potentially responsible
parties to study the nature and extent of the problem and to examine alternative solutions.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined that
no immediate actions were required at the Pagel's Pit site while further studies are taking place and
cleanup activities are being planned.
April 1991 78 PAGEL'S PIT
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PARSONS CASK
HARDWARE CO.
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD005252432
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Boone County
Belvidere
The 2-acre Parsons Casket Hardware Co. site was used as an electroplating facility from 1898 until
1982, when the owner filed for bankruptcy. Wastes from the operations were stored in drums,
aboveground and underground storage tanks, and an unlined surface impoundment. Wastes
generated included electroplating sludge; cyanide plating and cleaning solutions; and bronze, nickel,
and brass sludges. In 1982, the State found that approximately 120 drums of various sizes were
stored inside and outside the manufacturing building; many were dented, corroded, leaking, or
uncovered. Approximately 4,800 gallons of wastes were stored in aboveground and underground
tanks. An unlined lagoon contained approximately 166,500 gallons of liquid wastes and 1,230 cubic
yards of sludges. Post-cleanup sampling data was collected by the State in 1987 and indicated that
the groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The municipal water
system in the area uses groundwater from an aquifer that has been contaminated by the sites.
Approximately 6,000 people live within a 1-mile radius of the site. The closest residence is less than
1/10 of a mile away. Municipal water supply wells are within 3 miles of the site and are the sole
source of drinking water for Belvidere's 15,200 residents. Area residents use the Kishwaukee River,
1,400 feet from the site, for fishing and recreational activities.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 01/01/87
Final Date: 07/21/87
Threats and Contaminants
ZE
Groundwater contains various VOCs. Soils on site contain heavy metals including
arsenic, copper, and nickel. People who use the local municipal water supply system
may be exposed to hazardous chemicals from the site.
79
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing on
cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1984, the State of Illinois began to clean up the surface impoundment
and the storage tanks on site and completed the action in 1985, Also in 1985, Filter
Systems, Inc. purchased the building and moved all drums inside the building.
Entire Site: The State is carrying out a study of the nature and extent of contamination at
the site, under EPA monitoring. To date, groundwater monitoring wells and soil borings
have been installed and several samples have been collected. The study is expected to be
completed in 1992. The EPA will use the results of this study to select alternative actions for the
cleanup of the site.
Site Facts: The State ordered the Parsons Casket Hardware Co. to repackage all leaking drums and
to move them indoors before it filed for bankruptcy. The new owner, Filter Systems, Inc., agreed to
recycle or remove the drums stored in the building on site.
Environmental Progress
The cleanup of the surface impoundment and storage tanks has greatly reduced the potential for
exposure to hazardous materials at the Parsons Casket Hardware Co. site while further studies are
taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
April 1991 80 PARSONS CASKET HARDWARE CO.
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PETERSEN
SAND & GRAVEL
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD003817137
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 10
Lake County
1 mile north of Libertyville
The 120-acre Petersen Sand & Gravel site is a quarry purchased by Raymond Petersen in 1952 to
mine sand and gravel. The company dumped non-hazardous wastes, solvents, and paint wastes in
buried drums at the site between 1955 and 1958. Raymond Petersen owned the site until the Lake
County Forest Preserve District (LCFPD) acquired it in 1979. The District planned to convert the
quarry into a 240-acre recreational lake. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
inspected the site in 1971 and ordered it closed because of illegal dumping. The site consists of
three disposal areas that are located in the quarry, just east of the Des Plaines River. The first
disposal area, which the IEPA reinspected in 1972 and found to be properly closed, contains non-
hazardous wastes. In 1976, the IEPA discovered 10 to 15 uncovered barrels of waste in the second
disposal area of the gravel pit. Of these, about half contained paint and solvent wastes. In 1983, the
LCFPD uncovered six more drums containing unknown liquids in an area of the site located outside
the quarry, 100 yards east of the second disposal area. Barbed wire surrounds the perimeter of the
gravel pit. Approximately 880 people live within a 1-mile radius of the site. The closest residence is
an on-site trailer.
Site Responsibility:
This site was addressed through Federal
and State actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 06/10/86
Deleted Date: 02/11/91
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater, surface water, and sediments contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs);
heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and lead; polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBs); and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Because contamination levels
are low and site contaminants are not migrating, no potential health threats currently
exist
81
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site was addressed in two stages: initial actions and a long-term remedial phase focusing on
cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1977, the IEPA removed approximately 350 drums from the second
disposal area arid placed them in a landfill permitted for hazardous waste. In 1983,
approximately
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SANGAMO EL
CRAB ORCHA
WILDLIFE RE
ILLINOIS
EPAID#IL8143609487
Site Description
/ EPA REGION 5
'CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 22
Williamson County
Marion
Other Names:
Olin Corp Ordill I Area
din Corp Ordill Area 12
Olin Corp Ordill D Area
Olin Corp Ordill Ogden Road
Olin Corp Ordill Fire Station
Ordill Water Tower
The 42,000-acre Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge currently is operated by the Fish and
Wildlife Service (FWS) of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI). Manufacturing facilities have
been operated on the Refuge for more than 45 years. Explosives, munitions, electrical equipment
containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), boats, corrugated boxes, and plated metal are some of
the products that have been manufactured on the Refuge. During the early 1940s, several defense-
related operations began along the eastern portion of Crab Orchard Lake. In 1946, the War
Department transferred the land to DOI, and other companies moved onto the Refuge to use
buildings formerly used by wartime manufacturers. These small industries disposed of waste at
several locations in the area. In 1984, potential contamination problems were brought to the
attention of the EPA. The FWS, with the support of the EPA, has been conducting studies to
determine the types and amounts of contaminants, as well as the extent of risks to public health and
the environment. Based on initial field investigations and risk assessments, 31 subsites were studied
and grouped into four areas: three subsites contaminated primarily with heavy metals; four subsites
contaminated with PCBs and lead; four subsites associated with munitions or explosives
manufacturing, which will be investigated by the Department of Defense (DoD); and the remaining
subsite which will require additional investigations. Crab Orchard Lake is used as a drinking water
source for Refuge personnel and visitors, the nearby Marion Federal Penitentiary, and industrial
tenants. The lake also is used for various recreational activities and has been used in the past as an
auxiliary source of water for the Marion Reservoir, a nearby public water supply.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
Threats and Contaminants
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 03/31/89
Groundwater contaminants include chromium, lead, arsenic, cadmium, PCBs, and
various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Sediments and soils are
contaminated with PCBs and various heavy metals. Fish have been contaminated
with PCBs; therefore, eating contaminated fish may pose a health threat to people.
Accidental ingestion of contaminated soil or sediments also may pose a health
threat.
83
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being address
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SAVANNA ARM
DEPOT ACTIVITY
ILLINOIS
EPA ID#IL3210020803
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Carroll County and Jo Daviess County
North of Savanna
The 13,062-acre Savanna Army Depot site is an Army munitions installation located on the eastern
bank of the Mississippi River. The facility has handled, processed, and stored munitions, explosives,
and industrial chemicals since operations began in 1918. Renovation and loading of artillery shells
and bombs began at the site in the 1930s and has occurred intermittently. Several areas of the
facility have been used for the demolition and burning of obsolete ordnance. Approximately 70
areas within the facility have been identified as potential sources of hazardous waste. Public access
to the site is restricted. There are approximately 650 people within 3 miles of the site, and a large
wintering population of bald eagles resides on the facility.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 10/15/84
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater is contaminated with various explosives, trichloroethylene (TCE),
chloroform, and nickel. Sediments and surface water are contaminated with various
explosives. Soil is contaminated with explosives and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
(PAHs). Potential health threats to people include drinking contaminated groundwater
and coming in direct contact with surface water, soil, and sediments.
85
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on cleanup of the TNT
Washout Facility Lagoons and the entire site.
Response Action Status
TNT Washout Facility Lagoons: The U.S. Army is conducting an investigation into
the nature and extent of contamination at the TNT Washout Facility Lagoons located on
site. The field work for the study has been completed. The study will conclude with
recommendations for cleanup, which are expected in 1992.
Entire Site: The U.S. Army is negotiating a work plan for an investigation into the nature
and extent of the contamination at the entire site. The investigation will define the
contaminants and will recommend alternatives for the final cleanup. The work plan is
expected to be completed in 1991. The investigation is planned to be completed in 1993.
Site Facts: In 1989, the EPA, the State, and the U.S. Army signed an Interagency Agreement
regarding further cleanup activities at the site. The Savanna Army Depot Activity site 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
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined that
no immediate actions were required at the Savanna Army Depot site while the Army continues its
investigations leading to final cleanup activities.
April 1991 86 SAVANNA ARMY DEPOT ACTIVITY
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EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 16
Winnebago County
Rockford
Oth«r Names:
Southeast Rockford Dry Well
SOUTHEAST
ROCKFORD
CONTAMINA
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD981000417
Site Description
The 2-square-mile Southeast Rockford site covers 83 city blocks; however, contamination could
affect an even larger area, since these boundaries only indicate where the EPA has performed
sampling. Conversely, the boundaries do not indicate that all homes or businesses within this area
are affected by groundwater contamination. The groundwater at the site is contaminated with
volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The Rock River is located 2 miles west of the site, but is not
used as a drinking water supply. Some homes and businesses located within the site boundaries are
already connected to the municipal water supply and are not affected by the groundwater
contamination. Approximately 155,000 people living within 3 miles of the site use groundwater for
drinking purposes. The majority of the people use city water, which is drawn from a protected
aquifer.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal and State actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater is contaminated with various VOCs. Potential health threats to
people include drinking or coming in direct contact with contaminated groundwater.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in three stages: initial actions and two long-term remedial phases
focusing on provision of an alternate water supply and groundwater cleanup.
87
April 1991
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Response Action Status
Initial Actions: In 1989, the EPA sampled the wells of 78 homes and tested the samples
for specific VC)Cs. The EPA provided water to 283 homes. Bottled water was replaced
with carbon filtration systems. All 283 homes subsequently were connected to the city
water supply in 1990.
Alternate Water Supply: A study is underway to identify any additional residences
with contaminated water supplies above the allowable maximum contamination levels
(MCL). This action will provide for additional hookups to the city water supply.
Groundwater: The State, under EPA monitoring, is conducting an investigation into the
source, nature, and extent of groundwater contamination at the site. The investigation will
define the contaminants and will result in recommended alternatives for the final
groundwater cleanup. The investigation is planned to be completed in 1992.
Environmental Progress
The provision of alternate water supplies has eliminated the potential of exposure to hazardous
substances in the drinking water and will continue to protect residents near the Southeast Rockford
site while the permanent replacement water supply is installed.
April 1991 88 SOUTHEAST ROCKFORD GROUND
WATER CONTAMINATION
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TRI-COUNTY LAND
WASTE MANAGE
OF ILLINOIS, INC.
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD048306138
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 13
Kane County
South Elgin
The 46-acre Tri-County Landfill Co./Waste Management of Illinois, Inc. site previously was part of
a gravel mining operation. The landfill site originally was owned and operated by the Tri-County
Landfill Company from 1968 to 1973. The company had a permit from the State to accept general
municipal refuse. Waste Management of Illinois, Inc. operated the site from 1973 until it was closed
in 1977. In 1984, the EPA detected contaminants in monitoring wells downgradient of the site. The
Fox River, approximately a mile west of the site, is used extensively for fishing and boating. A
freshwater wetland is 1,100 feet away from the site. Over 10,000 people use wells within 3 miles of
the site for drinking water, and a residential well is 1,800 feet away from the site. The nearest
residence is located 1/2 mile from the site.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/10/86
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
The groundwater is contaminated with various volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as
well as cyanide. The contaminated groundwater could pose a health hazard to individuals
if it is accidentally directly contacted or ingested. Leachate from the site reportedly has
entered nearby ponds and ditches. The contaminants from the site could affect the
adjoining wetlands. There are drainage ditches and tributaries that enter the Fox River.
This surface water resource is used for various recreational activities.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in a single long-term remedial phase focusing on cleanup of the entire
site.
89
April 1991
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Response Action Status
Entire Site: The EPA is conducting an investigation of the site to determine the nature
and the extent of the contamination. The field work was completed, and a report of
investigations into potentially contaminated groundwater, surface water, sediments and
soil was submitted. When the study is completed, expected in 1992, the results of the investigation
will be used to evaluate various cleanup alternatives and to select a preferred cleanup option.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined that
no immediate actions were required at the Tri-County Landfill CoVWaste Management of Illinois,
Inc. site while cleanup activities are being planned.
April 1991
90
TRI-COUNTY LANDFILL COY
WASTE MANAGEMENT OF ILLINOIS, INC
-------
VELSICOL CHE
CORP. (ILLINOI
ILLINOIS
EPAID#ILD000814673
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 19
Clark County
1 mile north of Marshall
Other Names:
Marshall Plant
The Velsicol Chemical Corp. (Illinois) site is a manufacturing facility that was in operation between
the mid-1930s and 1987 and occupied an area of approximately 420 acres, 172 of which were used
for the production or disposal of petroleum resins, solvents, and pesticides. Chlordane production
began in the mid-1940s, with manufacturing operations at the facility remaining virtually unchanged
until 1979, when Velsicol withdrew from the resin market. Manufacturing of chlordane was the sole
product at the facility from 1980 to 1987. Hazardous wastes generated from various manufacturing
activities were stored in on-site impoundments. Overflow from these impoundments resulted in
releases of these wastes to a tributary of East Mill Creek. All the ponds that previously were used
for waste storage now are used only to hold stormwater and plant runoff. There are approximately
40 residences located within 1/4 mile of the site. The population of Marshall, 1 mile from the site, is
approximately 17,000.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 12/30/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
ZE
Groundwater is contaminated with various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and
pesticides. Sediments and on-site soils are contaminated with VOCs, pesticides, and
cadmium. Elevated concentrations of pesticides were detected in fish. Adverse health
effects may exist for people who accidentally ingest or come in direct contact with
contaminated soil, sediments, or groundwater or eat contaminated fish.
91
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In the 1980s, all contaminated soil and sediments were
consolidated arid stabilized with cement and fly ash and then covered with a temporary clay
cap and seeded with grass.
Entire Site: In 1988, the following activities were selected to clean up the site: (1)
excavation of 10,200 cubic yards of contaminated stream and pond sediments and 87,900
cubic yards of contaminated soil, backfilling of those areas with clay, and reseeding the
areas; (2) consolidation of all excavated material on site; (3) construction of a groundwater collection
drain followed by disposal through either deep well injection or treatment of the water with granular
activated carbon prior to off-site discharge; (4) monitoring of both groundwater and surface water,
and (5) implementation of land use and deed restrictions. The pond sediments have been excavated,
and the demolition of the: existing plant has been accomplished. Also accomplished during 1990
were the closure of injection well #1, the integrity testing of well #2, the closure of some
groundwater monitoring wells, and the sampling of the others remaining. The design of the
permanent cap for this site was completed in 1991. The closure of the tank and container storage
areas also has been completed, and the construction of the groundwater collection trench is expected
to be completed in 1991. Stream sediments are expected to be excavated and treated in 1992, and the
final site cover is scheduled to be completed in 1994.
Site Facts: In 1989, the EPA and the State reached a settlement with the parties potentially
responsible for the site contamination to conduct the cleanup actions.
Environmental Progress
The completed excavation and closure actions described above have greatly reduced the potential
for exposure to hazardous materials and have contained the migration of contamination from the
Velsicol Chemical Corp. (Illinois) site while further cleanup actions are taking place.
April 1991 92 VELSICOL CHEMICAL CORP. (ILLINOIS)
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WAUCONDA
SAND &
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD047019732
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 10
Lake County
1 mile north of Wauconda
Site Description
The 74-acre Wauconda Sand and Gravel site includes 52 acres of licensed and unlicensed landfill
areas. Prior to 1941, a sand and gravel pit operated at the site. After 1941, the site was used as a
landfill for municipal waste until 1978. Approximately 3 million cubic yards of waste were placed
in the two landfills operated on the site, one licensed and the other unlicensed. The entire site was
closed and covered with a layer of clay and soil in 1978. Since the late 1970s, leachate from the site
was entering nearby Mutton Creek, and surface water samples taken from this creek in the early
1980s revealed low concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs), and heavy metals. PCBs have not been detected in any subsequent studies.
Although the site currently is restricted, the property once had been used for various recreational
activities. Approximately 12 homes are located within a mile of the landfill.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal, State, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPLUSTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 07/16/82
Final Date: 09/08/83
Threats and Contaminants
Sampling of the groundwater indicates contamination with heavy metals, VOCs, and
pesticides. Leachate is contaminated with heavy metals and cyanide. Health threats
include accidental ingestion of or direct contact with contaminated groundwater or
leachate.
Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two long-term remedial phases focusing on leachate collection and
cleanup of the entire site.
93
April 1991
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Response Action Status
Leachate Collection: In 1985, the following remedies were selected for leachate
collection: (1) installing leachate collection drains to stop surface leachate discharge into
Mutton Creek; (2) providing for proper disposal of leachate either at the Wauconda
Sewage Treatment Plant or a hazardous waste treatment facility; (3) regrading depressed and eroded
areas on the existing landfill soil cover with sufficient slope to promote rain runoff; (4) revegetating
bare and eroded areas to prevent erosion of soils into Mutton Creek; and (5) placing fencing around
the site. By 1987, all of these actions had been completed.
Entire Site: In 1989, based on the site investigations performed by the potentially
responsible parties, the EPA selected the following remedies: (1) long-term monitoring of
groundwater and Mutton Creek; (2) additional air emission controls, including new and
additional vents and, if required, an active collection system with a ground flare or other appropriate
treatment; (3) imposing restrictions on use of on-site groundwater, (4) required upgrading of the
northern portion of the unlicensed site cover to reduce infiltration and surface gas emissions, and to
control erosion due to runoff from the site and the erosion from Mutton Creek; (5) continued
operation of the leachate collection system; and (6) long-term inspection and maintenance of the gas
venting and leachate collection systems, site cover, fence, and the monitoring well network. The
design of the technical s]3ecifications is underway and all cleanup activities are scheduled for
completion in 1992.
Site Facts: An Administrative Order on Consent was reached between the EPA, the Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), and the Wauconda Task Group in 1986 for additional
investigations and the performance of interim cleanup measures. In 1989, an additional Unilateral
Order was issued.
Environmental Progress
The leachate collection efforts, surface drainage control, and fencing of the site have greatly reduced
the potential for exposure to contaminated materials at the Wauconda Sand and Gravel site while
further cleanup activities are being completed.
April 1991 94 WAUCONDA SAND & GRAVEL
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WOODSTOCK
MUNICIPAL
LANDFILL
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980605943
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 13
McHenry County
Woodstock
The 50-acre Woodstock Municipal Landfill site was a local dump and open burning area from 1935
to 1958, when the City of Woodstock purchased the property and began to bury municipal waste in
on-site trenches. The landfill also accepted industrial wastes. Approximately 7,200 cubic yards of
nickel sludge generated by the Autolite Plant in Woodstock were disposed of at the landfill from
1972 to 1974. The landfill stopped accepting waste in 1975. The EPA conducted an inspection of
the site in 1985 and observed leachate seeping out of the wastes. The site presently is unfenced.
Freshwater wetlands surround the landfill. Approximately 12,400 people obtain drinking water from
public and private wells located within 3 miles of the site. The city's six municipal wells also are
located within 3 miles of the site. The distance from the nearest residential well to the site is 50 feet.
Site Responsibility: This site is being addressed through
Federal and potentially responsible
parties' actions.
NPL USTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 10/04/89
Threats and Contaminants
On-site groundwater is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Surface
water contains heavy metals. VOCs and metals were found in sediments. On-site
workers could be exposed to site-related contaminants when coming in direct contact
with or accidentally ingesting surface water, groundwater, or sediments. Since the site is
unfenced, trespassers also could be exposed to these contaminants. Because the soil
underlying the site is highly permeable, contaminants migrate readily through the soil into
the groundwater. The wetlands surrounding the site are affected by metal and VOC
contaminants that have migrated from the site.
95
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This 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, under EPA monitoring, some of the parties potentially responsible
for site contamination began an investigation into the nature and extent of contamination.
Some of the work being conducted under this investigation includes groundwater, soil,
surface water, and air testing and a public and environmental health assessment. The first phase of
field sampling work began in 1990. Five leachate and 12 monitoring wells were installed. Leachate,
groundwater, sediment, and surface water samples were taken and analyzed, as well as samples from
nearby residential wells. Nine piezometers and four additional monitoring wells were installed for
the second phase of the investigation. Sampling activities are underway. The investigation is
scheduled for completion in 1992. Alternatives for cleanup will be recommended based on the
results of this investigation.
Site Facts: The City of Woodstock, Allied Chemical Corporation, and others identified by the
EPA as potentially responsible parties agreed to conduct an investigation into the nature and extent
of site contamination and the most effective methods to clean up the site in 1989. These activities
are in compliance with an Administrative Order issued by the EPA in 1989.
Environmental Progress
After adding this site to the NPL, the EPA performed preliminary investigations and determined
that no immediate actions were required at the Woodstock Municipal Landfill site while further
investigations are taking place and cleanup activities are being planned.
April 1991 96 WOODSTOCK MUNICIPAL LANDFILL
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YEOMAN CREEK
LANDFILL
ILLINOIS
EPA ID# ILD980500102
Site Description
EPA REGION 5
CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 13
Lake County
Waukegan
Othw Name*:
Waukegan Land Reclamation Project
Edwards Field
National Disposal
The approximately 70-acre Yeoman Creek Landfill site operated as a landfill from 1959 to 1969.
The landfill has no bottom liner, and the underlying soils are permeable. More than 67,000 people in
Waukegan are supplied with drinking water from a Lake Michigan intake 10,000 feet downstream of
contaminants found in Yeoman Creek at Yeoman Park. Approximately 1,500 people draw drinking
water from private wells within 3 miles of the site. The nearest well is 1,600 feet from the site.
Apartments, businesses, and wetlands surround the site. Leachate has been observed seeping into
Yeoman Creek since 1969, although the quantity decreased substantially after the site cover was
upgraded in 1980.
Site Responsibility:
This site is being addressed through
Federal, municipal, and potentially
responsible parties' actions.
NPL LISTING HISTORY
Proposed Date: 06/24/88
Final Date: 03/31/89
Threats and Contaminants
Groundwater and leachate are contaminated with ammonia, polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBs), and heavy metals including barium, iron, and sodium. In addition, leachate is
contaminated with various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Sediments of Yeoman
Creek at the landfill, and farther downstream at Yeoman Park, contain PCBs and other
organic chemicals. Potential health threats to people include coming in direct contact
with or accidentally ingesting contaminated groundwater, surface water, soil, or
sediments. Before the landfill was fenced, people could have come into direct contact
with hazardous substances. The wetlands could be threatened by the contaminants.
97
April 1991
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Cleanup Approach
This site is being addressed in two stages: immediate actions and a long-term remedial phase
focusing on cleanup of the entire site.
Response Action Status
Immediate Actions: In 1980, the City upgraded the site cover in most areas of the site.
In 1990, the potentially responsible parties installed a fence around the site, under an
agreement with the EPA.
Entire Site: The potentially responsible parties, under EPA monitoring, are conducting
an investigation into the nature and extent of the contamination at the site. The
investigation will define the contaminants and will recommend alternatives for the final
cleanup.
Environmental Progress
Early actions taken by the City to restore the landfill cover have reduced the potential for exposure
and further contamination, The Yeoman Creek Landfill site is now fenced, restricting any public
access to contamination while site investigations are underway.
April 1991
98
YEOMAN CREEK LANDFILL
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APPENDIX A
Glossary:
Terms Used
in the
Fact Sheets
99
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GLOSSARY
This glossary defines terms used
throughout the NPL Volumes. The
terms and abbreviations contained in
this glossary apply specifically to work
performed under the Superfund program in
the context of hazardous waste mancgement.
These terms may have other meanings when
used in a different context.
Terms Used
in the NPL
Book
Acids: Substances, characterized by low pH
(less than 7.0), that arc used in chemical
manufacturing. Acids in high concentration
can be very corrosive and react with many
inorganic and organic substances. These
reactions possibly may create toxic com-
pounds 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).
Aeration: A process that promotes break-
down of contaminants in soil or water by
exposing them to air.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry (ATSDR): The Federal agency
within the U.S. Public Health Service charged
with carrying out the health-related responsi-
bilities of CERCLA.
Air Stripping: A process whereby volatile
organic chemicals (VOCs) are removed from
contaminated material by forcing a stream of
air through it in a pressurized vessel. The
contaminants are evaporated into the air
stream. The air may be further treated before
it is released into the atmosphere.
Ambient Air: Any unconfined part of the
atmosphere. Refers to the air that may be
inhaled by workers or residents in the vicinity
of contaminated air sources.
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% or more of the drinking water of
an area.
Artesian (Well): A well made by drilling
into the earth until water is reached, which,
from internal pressure, flows up like a foun-
tain.
101
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GLOSSARY.
Attenuation: The naturally occurring pro-
cess by which a compound is reduced in
concentration over time through adsorption,
degradation, dilution, and/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 remov-
ing 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, form-
ing salts.
Berm: A ledge, wall, or a mound of earth
used to prevent the migration of contami-
nants.
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 contami-
nated 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
elsewhere.
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
groundwater 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 or-
ganic 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 Environ-
mental Response, Compensation, and Liabil-
ity Act].
Characterization: The sampling, monitor-
ing, and analysis of a site to determine the
102
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GLOSSARY
extent and nature of toxic releases. Character-
ization provides the basis for acquiring the
necessary technical information to develop,
screen, analyze, and select appropriate
cleanup techniques.
Chemical Fixation: The use of chemicals to
bind contaminants, thereby reducing the
potential 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 interchangeably 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. 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 communica-
tion with the public. Goals of community
relations programs include creating an under-
standing of EPA programs and related ac-
tions, assuring public input into decision-
making processes related to affected commu-
nities, and making certain that the Agency is
aware of, and responsive to, public concerns.
Specific community relations activities are
required in relation to Superfund cleanup
actions [see Comment Period].
Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation, and Liability Act
(CERCLA): Congress enacted the
CERCLA, known as Superfund, in 1980 to
respond directly to hazardous waste problems
that may pose a threat to the public health and
the environment. The EPA administers the
Superfund program.
Confluence: The place where two bodies of
water, such as streams or rivers, come to-
gether.
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 and/or the costs incurred by the
government that the parties will reimburse, as
well as the roles, responsibilities, and enforce-
ment options that the government may exer-
cise in the event of non-compliance by poten-
tially responsible parties. If a settlement
between the EPA and a potentially respon-
sible party includes cleanup actions, it must
be in the form of a Consent Decree. A Con-
sent 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 struc-
ture, typically in a pond or a lagoon, to pre-
vent the migration of contaminants into the
environment.
103
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GLOSSARY.
Contaminant: Any physical, chemical,
biological, or radiological material or sub-
stance whose quantity, location, or nature
produces undesirable health or environmental
effects.
Contingency Plan: A document setting out
an organized, planned, ;ind coordinated course
of action to be followed in case of a fire,
explosion, or other accident that releases toxic
chemicals, hazardous wastes, or radioactive
materials into the environment
Cooperative Agreement: A contract be-
tween 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 preserv-
ing operations and produced by distillation of
tar, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocar-
bons and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons
[see PAHs and PNAs]. Contaminating
sediments, soils, and suiface 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
embankment.
Decommission: To revoke a license to
operate and take out of service.
Degradation: The process by which a
chemical is reduced to a less complex form.
Degrease: To remove grease from wastes,
soils, or chemicals, usually using solvents.
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.
Dike: A low wall that can act as a barrier to
prevent a spill from spreading.
Disposal: Final placement or destruction of
toxic, radioactive, or other wastes; surplus or
banned pesticides or other chemicals; polluted
soils; and drums containing hazardous materi-
als. Disposal may be accomplished through
tlie use of approved secure landfills, surface
impoundments, land farming, deep well
injection, or incineration.
Downgradient: A downward hydrologic
slope that causes groundwater to move toward
lower elevations. Therefore,, wells downgra-
dient of a contaminated groundwater source
are prone to receiving pollutants.
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
facilities.
Emulsifiers: Substances that help in mixing
materials that do not normally mix; e.g., oil
and water.
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Endangerment Assessment: A study con-
ducted 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; and/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 Recovery].
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; together,
they are commonly referred to as the RI/FS
[see Remedial Investigation].
Filtration: A treatment process for removing
solid (particulate) matter from water by
passing the water through sand, activated
carbon, or a man-made filter. The process is
often used to remove particles that contain
contaminants.
Flood Plain: An area along a river, formed
from sediment deposited by floods. Flood
plains periodically are innundated by natural
floods, which can spread contamination.
Flue Gas: The air that is emitted from a
chimney after combustion in the burner
occurs. The gas can include nitrogen oxides,
carbon oxides, water vapor, sulfur oxides,
particles, and many chemical pollutants.
Fly Ash: Non-combustible residue that
results from the combustion of flue gases. It
can include nitrogen oxides, carbon oxides,
water vapor, sulfur oxides, as well as many
other chemical pollutants.
French Drain System: A crushed rock drain
system constructed of perforated pipes, which
is used to drain and disperse wastewater.
Gasification (coal): The conversion of soft
coal into gas for use as a fuel.
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
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GLOSSARY.
and willingness to perform a site study or
cleanup.
Groundwater: Underground 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. It possesses at
least one of four characteristics (ignitability,
corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity), or appears
on special EPA lists.
Hot Spot: An area or vicinity of a site con-
taining exceptionally high levels of contami-
nation.
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 con-
trolled 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 precipitation
(rain or snow) or from application of waste-
water 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 substances
of mineral origin, not of basic carbon struc-
ture.
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,
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GLOSSARY
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 and/or
incorporate 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 chemical landfills are disposal sites for
hazardous waste. They are designed to
minimize the chance of release of hazardous
substances into the environment [see Re-
source Conservation and Recovery Act].
Leachate [n]: The liquid that trickles
through or drains from waste, carrying soluble
components from the waste. Leach, Leach-
ing [v.t.]: The process by which soluble
chemical components are dissolved and
carried through soil by water or some other
percolating liquid.
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 com-
plexity, site cleanup activities can be sepa-
rated into several of these phases.
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,
contaminants, 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 control-
ling 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
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GLOSSARY.
which groundwater flows and the types and
amounts of contaminants present.
National Priorities List (NPL): The EPA's
list of the most serious uncontrolled or aban-
doned hazardous waste sites identified for
possible long-term cleanup under Superfund.
The EPA is required to update the NPL at
least once a year.
Neutrals: Organic comjxnmds that have a
relatively neutral pH, complex structure and,
due to their organic bases, are easily absorbed
into the environment. Naphthalene, pyrene,
and trichlorobenzene are examples of
neutrals.
Nitroaromatics: Comrion 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 poten-
tially responsible parties, although the EPA
may undertake certain investigatory and
planning activities. The 60-day period may
be extended if the EPA receives a good faith
offer within that period.
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, hydro-
gen, 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 is 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.
Petrochemicals: Chemical substances
produced from petroleum in refinery opera-
tions 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
poisonous.
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GLOSSARY
Physical Chemical Separation: The treat-
ment process of adding a chemical to a sub-
stance 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 deter-
mine its ability to clean up specific contami-
nants.
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 move-
ment of the groundwater is influenced by such
factors as local groundwater flow patterns, the
character of the aquifer in which groundwater
is contained, 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.
Poiycyclic 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 creo-
sotes and can cause cancer.
Polychiorinated 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 caulk-
ing 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 Sub-
stances Control Act
Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons
(PNAs): PNAs, such as naphthalene, and
biphenyls, are a group of highly reactive
organic compounds that are a common com-
ponent of creosotes, which can be carcino-
genic.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): A plastic made
from the gaseous substance vinyl chloride.
PVC is used to make pipes, records, raincoats,
and floor tiles. Health risks from high con-
centrations 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, including owners, who may have
contributed to the contamination at a Su-
perfund site and may be liable for costs of
response actions. Parties are considered PRPs
until they admit liability or a court makes a
determination of liability. PRPs may sign a
Consent Decree or Administrative Order on
Consent to participate in site cleanup activity
without admitting liability.
Precipitation: The removal of solids from
liquid waste so that the solid and liquid
portions can be disposed of safely; the re-
moval of particles from airborne emissions.
Electrochemical 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 informa-
tion about a known or suspected waste site or
release to determine if a threat or potential
threat exists.
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GLOSSARY.
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 environment. Radon, the gaseous form
of radium, decays to form alpha particle
radiation, which cannot IDC absorbed through
skin. However, it can be inhaled, which
allows alpha particles to affect unprotected
tissues directly and thus cause cancer. Radia-
tion also occurs naturally through the break-
down of granite stones.
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.
Record of Decision (ROD): A public docu-
ment 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 construc-
tion 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 contami-
nation at a Superfund site, establish the
criteria for cleaning up the site, identify the
preliminary alternatives for cleanup actions,
and support the technical and cost analyses of
the alternatives. The remedial investigation
is usually done with the feasibility study.
Together they are customarily referred to as
the RI/FS [see Feasibility Study].
Remedial Project Manager (RPM): The
EPA or State official responsible for oversee-
ing cleanup actions at a 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 with-
out 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 remain-
ing in the environment after a natural or
technological process has taken place, e.g.,
the sludge remaining after initial wastewater
treatment, or particulates remaining in air
after the air passes through a scrubbing, or
other, process.
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
110
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GLOSSARY
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 to store
waste.
Riparian Habitat: Areas adjacent to rivers
and streams that have a high density, diver-
sity, and productivity of plant and animal
species relative to nearby uplands.
Runoff: The discharge of water over land
into surface water. It can carry pollutants
from the air and land and spread contamina-
tion from its source.
Scrubber: An air pollution 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.
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 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
necessary for choosing and designing cleanup
measures 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 subsur-
face 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 smelt-
ers 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
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GLOSSARY.
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
approaches: dissolving or suspending them in
the wash solution for later treatment by
conventional methods, and concentrating
them into a smaller volume of soil through
simple particle size separation techniques [see
Solvent Extraction].
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 hazard-
ous constituents. Mobility is reduced through
the binding of hazardous constituents into a
solid mass with low permeability and resis-
tance to leaching.
Solvent: A substance capable of dissolving
another substance to form a solution. The
primary uses of industriiil 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 at-
tracting substances. It is used in many pollu-
tion control systems.
Stillbottom: Residues left over from the
process of recovering spent solvents.
Stripping: A process used to remove volatile
contaminants from a substance [see Air
Stripping].
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
releases of hazardous substances that may
endanger public health, welfare, or the envi-
ronment. 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, includ-
ing 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 Wet-
lands].
Thermal Treatment: The use of heat to
remove or destroy contaminants from soil.
Treatability Studies: Testing a treatment
method on contaminated groundwater, soil,
etc., to determine whether and how well the
method will work.
Trichloroethylene (TCE): A stable, color-
less liquid with a low boiling point., TCE has
many industrial applications, including use as
112
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GLOSSARY
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 contami-
nated areas and, therefore, are not prone to
contamination 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.
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
potentially toxic chemicals are used as sol-
vents, 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 pollutants 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.
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APPENDIX B
Information
Repositories
for
NPL Sites
in Illinois
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