United States Office of
Environmental Protection Emergency and
Agency Remedial Response
EPA/ROD/R02-93/204
March 1993
x°/EPA Superfund
Record of Decision:
Pittsburgh Air Force Base,
NY
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50272-101 .
REPORT DOCUMENTATION
PAGE
1. REPORT NO.
EPA/ROD/R02-93/204
3. Recipient^ Accession No.
4. THIe and Subtitle
SUPERFUND RECORD OF DECISION
Plattsburgh Air Force Base, NY
Third Remedial Action
5. Report Date
03/31/93
6.
7. Authors)
8. Performing Organization Rapt. No.
9. Performing Organization Name and Address
10 Project Taak/Work Unit No.
11. Contract(C) or Qrant(G) No.
(C)
(0)
12. Sponsoring Organization Name and AddraM
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460
13. Typa of Report & Period Covered
800/800
14.
15. Supplementary Notes
PB94-963812
16. Abstract (Umit: 200 words)
The Plattsburgh Air Force Base site is located south of Plattsburgh, Clinton County,
New York. Land use in the area is predominantly residential and light industrial.
Ground water beneath the site is not used as a drinking water source. Plattsburgh Air
Force Base (AFB) historically has been engaged in numerous operations that have
required the use, handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials. The U.S.
Department of Defense's Installation Restoration Program (IRP) identified 39 sites at
Plattsburgh AFB with potential contamination by hazardous materials. One of these
sites, the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office (DRMO), or SS-011, is part of
base industrial operations. This office handles Air Force-discarded materials that may
have reclaimable components. Typical items handled at the DRMO include out-of-service
transformers and used refrigerators. From 1970 to 1972, containers of pesticides
containing DDT were stored at the site. During that time, the contents of one or more
of the storage containers leaked, or was spilled, and was absorbed into the soil. In
1981, a transformer (PCB oil) spill occurred on a paved area of the site. As a result,
the transformer fluids were cleaned off the pavement and the area was later excavated.
In 1991, a removal action was initiated to facilitate rapid cleanup of DDT-contaminated
soil at SS-011. In 1991, 400 feet of railroad track was removed and 600 yd^ of
(See Attached Page)
17. Document Analysis a. Descriptors
Record of Decision - Plattsburgh Air Force Base, NY
Third Remedial Action
Contaminated Media: None
Key Contaminants: None
b. Identifiers/Opart-Ended Terms
e. COSAH Field/Group
18. Availability Statement
19. Security Class (This Report)
None
20. Security Class (This Page)
None •
21. No. of Pages
34
22. Price
(Sss ANSI-Z39.18)
SM Instructions en Rtvarse
OPTIONAL FORM 272 (4-77)
(Formerly NTIS-35)
Department of Commerce
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EPA/ROD/R02-93/204
Plattsburgh Air Force Base, NY
Third Remedial Action
Abstract (Continued)
contaminated soil was excavated and disposed of offsite in a RCRA landfill. Soil
containing greater than or equal to 1,000 mg/kg DDT was incinerated offsite. Excavated
areas were backfilled and regraded, and the original drainage patterns were restored. A
1992 ROD addressed contaminated soil, sediment, waste, and surface water at area LF—023,
as OU1. A second 1992 ROD addressed contaminated soil and debris at area LF—022, as OU3.
Future RODs will address other areas of contamination at the Air Force Base, including
ground water contamination emanating from SS—017. This ROD addresses the contaminated
soil at area SS—Oil, as OU4. Results of the Risk Assessment show that the previous
removal action was effective in achieving protection of human health and the environment
and no further action is proposed for area SS-011; therefore, there are no contaminants of
concern affecting this site.
The selected remedial action for this site is no further action. EPA has determined that
previous actions at the SS-011 area have been effective in achieving protection of human
health and the environment. Five year inspections will be conducted to assess the general
conditions at the site, including the process of revegetation of areas disturbed by the
removal actions and potential effects of runoff from or onto the site. The first
inspection was conducted in 1992. There are no present worth or O&M costs associated with
this no action remedy.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS OR GOALS:
Not applicable.
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ROD PACT 8HBET
SITE
Name : Plattsburgh Air Force Base
Location/State : Plattsburgh, New York
EPA Region : II
HRS Score (date): 30.34 - November 21, 1989
ROD
Date Signed: March 31, 1993
Remedy/ies: Removal Action: Soil Excavation / Offsite
Disposal. ROD: No further Action
Operating Unit Number: OU-4
Capital cost: $ 0
Construction Completion: N/A
O & M in 1993: $ 0
1994: $ 0
1995: $ 0
1996: $ 0
Present worth: negligible
* Removal Action completed in November 1991, site restoration
completed in May 1992. Additional confirmatory samples were
analyzed in November 1992. Remedial Decision is for No
Further Action other than 5 year site inspections/
evaluations, at negligible cost. First inspection was
conducted in November 1992.
LEAD
PRP Enforcement
Primary contact EPA: Robert D. Morse, Remedial Project Manager
(212) 264-1841
Secondary contact EPA: Robert Wing, Federal Facilities Section
Chief - (212) 264-8670
PRP Contact Plattsburgh AFB: Mr. Michael Sorel, P.E., Chief
Environmental Management Flight -
(518) 565-6678;
* Site is a Federal Facility. Facility is the lead. EPA
provides oversight through Federal Facilities Agreement.
WASTE
Type: DDT
Medium: Soil
Origin : Spillage from pesticide containers stored at the site.
Est. quantity: 600 cu.yd. of soil removed. Spill quantity
unknown.
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DEFENSE REUTILIZATION AND MARKETING OFFICE SITE (SS-011)
RECORD OF DECISION
Plattsburgh Air Force Base
Plattsburgh, New York
FINAL
MARCH 1993
Plattsburgh Air Force Base
Installation Restoration Program
Prepared by:
URS Consultants, Inc.
282 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14202
(9
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INSTALLATION RESTORATION PROGRAM
DEFENSE REUTILIZATION AND MARKETING OFFICE (SS-011)
RECORD OF DECISION
PLATTSBURGH AIR FORCE BASE
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK
FINAL
Prepared By:
URS Consultants, Inc.
282 Delaware Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14202
March 1993
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
DECLARATION FOR THE RECORD OF DECISION in
1.0 SITE NAME, LOCATION, AND DESCRIPTION 1-1
2.0 SITE HISTORY 2-1
2.1 Land Use and Response History 2-1
2.2 Federal Facilities Agreement History 2-2
3.0 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION 3-1
4.0 SCOPE AND ROLE OF REMOVAL ACTION 4-1
5.0 SUMMARY OF SITE CHARACTERISTICS 5-1
6.0 SUMMARY OF SITE RISKS 6-1
6.1 Contaminated Media '. . 6-1
6.2 Contaminants of Concern 6-1
6.3 Exposure Scenarios 6-1
6.4 Risks to Human Populations 6-2
6.5 Summary of Environmental Risks 6-2
7.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE NO FURTHER ACTION PREFERRED
ALTERNATIVE 7-1
8.0 DOCUMENTATION OF NO SIGNIFICANT CHANGES . . . -. 8-1
9.0 STATE ROLE 9-1
10.0 RESPONSIVENESS SUMMARY 10-1
REFERENCES
APPENDIX A - NYSDEC DECLARATION OF CONCURRENCE WITH PREFERRED
ALTERNATIVE
33291. (0106/00
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LIST OF TABLES
Following
Page No.
2-1 Investigation Chronology: SS-011 2-1
5-1 Summary of Organic and Inorganic Chemicals Remaining On Site 5-1
6-1 Contaminants of Concern Utilized in Risk Assessment 6-1
6-2 Summary of Human Health Risks 6-2
LIST OF FIGURES
Following
Figure No. Page No.
1-1 Vicinity Location Map 1-1
1-2 Site Location Map: SS-011 1-1
1-3 Site Plan Map: SS-011 1-1
4-1 DRMO SS-011 Depth of Excavation 4-2
5-1 Interpretive Geologic Profile A-A' 5-1
5-2 Potentiometric Surface - January 1989 5-1
5-3 Summary of DDT Screening Data 5-1
5-4 Post-Excavation Residual DDT 5-2
35291.0SWOO
E/ROD/ouB
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DECLARATION FOR THE RECORD OF DECISION
SITE NAME AND LOCATION
Pittsburgh Air Force Base (AFB),
Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office (SS-011)
Plattsburgh, New York
STATEMENT OF BASIS AND PURPOSE
This Record of Decision (ROD) presents a selected remedial action for soils at Site SS-011 on
Plattsburgh AFB in Plattsburgh, New York. This document was developed in accordance with
the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980
(CERCLA) as amended by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA),
and to the extent practicable, the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency
Plan (NCP). This decision is based on the Administrative Record for this site, a copy of which
is located at Plattsburgh AFB.
The remedy has been selected by the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (USEPA) with the concurrence of the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) pursuant to a federal facilities agreement among the
parties under Section 120 of CERCLA.
Groundwater contamination present in wells at Site SS-011 appears to be caused by an upgradient
source. This upgradient source is currently under investigation as part of the Remedial
Investigation at Site SS-017.
DESCRIPTION OF THE REMEDY
Inasmuch as prior removal actions taken to excavate and dispose of DDT (4,4'-
dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) contaminated soils in 1991 have proven protective of human
health and the environment, no further action has been determined necessary at Site SS-011 to
reduce site contaminants beyond their current levels. Inspections will be conducted, once per
five-year period, to assess the general condition of the site, including the progress of revegetation
in areas disturbed by die 1991 removal action and the potential effects of runoff from or onto the
site. After each inspection, an evaluation will be undertaken to insure the continued protection
of human health and the environment.
E/tLODIma
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DECLARATION
Target Cleanup Levels considered to be protective of ecological and human receptors were
approved by NYSDEC and USEPA on July 23, 1990. The removal action undertaken in 1991
was considered, therefore, to be protective of human health and the environment, and to be
ARAR-compliant. Sampling and analysis were conducted concurrently during the removal
activities, both to determine the adequacy of the removal action, and for use in the baseline risk
assessment (RA). Results of the RA show that the removal action was fully effective in achieving
protection of human health and the environment. Therefore, no further action is necessary.
WILLIAM J. MUSZYNSKI P.E.
Acting Regional Administrator, USEPA Region II
Date
Date
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force
(Environment, Safety, and Occupational Health)
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IV
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SflJ/MIQ - 4C916 PNT 10:703-614-2884 MfiR 31*93 16:32 No.016 P.01
PNT IDt?Q3-614-2S8« MfiR 51'95 13»3
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1.0 SITE NAME, LOCATION, AND DESCRIPTION
Pittsburgh AFB is located in Clinton County in northeastern New York State, bordered
on the north by the city of Plattsburgh and on the east by Lake Champlain (Figure 1-1). It lies
approximately 26 miles south of the Canadian border and 167 miles north of Albany. Site SS-
011, the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office (DRMO), is part of base industrial
operations. It is located along the eastern side of Idaho Avenue, with an unused railroad track
running the length of the site's southeast border (Figure 1-2). This office handles Air Force-
discarded materials that may have reciaimable components. Typical items handled at the DRMO
include out-of-service transformers and used refrigerators. The facility consists of several small
buildings that serve as both covered storage and administrative offices, and a large adjacent paved
area used as open storage (Figure 1-3). For security, the entire facility is enclosed by a chain-
link fence that is locked during nonworking hours. Northeast of the site are approximately 90
wooded acres with recreational trails used by base personnel. The base golf course is to the
south and within several hundred feet of SS-011.
A more complete description of SS-011 may be found in the Defense Reutilization and
Marketing Office (SS-011) Remedial Investigation Report, Section 3.0 - Physical Site
Characteristics.
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ADIRONDACK
MOUNTAINS
20
SOURCES
I) NORTH AMERICAN ROAD ATLAS,
H.M. GOUSHA CO., 1982
2) E.C. JORDAN CO. ; REMEDIAL
INVESTIGATION REPORT
FIGURE 1-1
VICINITY LOCATION MAP
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SS-011 (DRMO)
USGS 7.5 MINUTE SERIES QUADRANGLE
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y - VT. (I966)
SITE LOCATION MAP: SS-011
FIGURE 1-2
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SS-011 (DRMO)
DRAINAGE
SURFACE ELEVATION
UPGRAOIENT
GROUNDWATER
CONTAMINATION
900
SOURCE
E.C. JORDAN CO.; REMEDIAL
INVESTIGATION REPORT
FIGURE 1-3
VO
K
to
I
SITE PLAN MAP: SS-011
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2.0 SITE HISTORY
In accordance with Section 117(a) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), Pittsburgh AFB is publishing this Record of
Decision (ROD) to address public review and comment on the selected alternative. Pittsburgh
AFB, in conjunction with USEPA and NYSDEC, have considered public comments in selecting
the remedy for SS-011. This ROD summarizes the results and conclusions of the Remedial
Investigation (RI), Risk Assessment (RA), and Proposed Plan and addresses any public comments
received.
2.1 Land Ike and Response History
SS-011 is located on the eastern side of the base along Idaho Avenue (See Figure 1-2).
Containers of pesticides containing DDT (4,4'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) were stored at
the site from 1970 to 1972. During that time, the contents of one or more of the storage
containers leaked or was spilled. Spillage ran off the paved open storage area and into soils
along the railroad tracks on the yard's eastern side. Because pesticides in general are only
slightly soluble in water, it is common practice to dissolve them in a petroleum-based carrier
(i.e., kerosene).
In December 1981, a transformer (PCB oil) spill occurred in the northwest corner of the
paved area. The transformer fluids were cleaned off the frozen pavement surface and the area
was excavated the following spring.
Several site investigations have been conducted at SS-011 as part of the Installation
Restoration Program (IRP) at Pittsburgh AFB. A Preliminary Assessment evaluated whether
the site was potentially contaminated and required further investigation. The Preliminary
Assessment prompted a Site Inspection (SI) to confirm the presence of contamination. SI
activities included a Soil Organic Vapor (SOV) survey, surface soil sampling, soil borings,
monitoring well installation, and an associated analytical program. Because SI results indicated
the presence of contaminants, an RI was conducted to characterize the nature and extent of
contamination at SS-011. RI activities included the installation of additional monitoring wells,
the sampling and analysis of surface and subsurface soils, and the implementation of an extensive
field screening program to determine the area! and subsurface distribution of DDT.
On January 18, 1990, USEPA and NYSDEC concurred that a non-time-critical removal
action was warranted to facilitate rapid cleanup of DDT-contaminated soils at SS-011. A
comparative analysis of the alternatives was performed in 1990 as part of an Engineering
Evaluation/Cost Analysis, and a remedial alternative that was protective of human health and the
environment, ARAR-compliant, readily implementable, and cost-effective was selected. Details
are provided in Section 4.0 of this document. In summary, approximately 400 feet of railroad
track was removed and 600 cubic yards of contaminated soil were excavated and removed from
the site.
Subsequent to the removal action, additional soil samples were taken to confirm the extent
of DDT in soils. A risk assessment (RA) was then completed to determine the impact of
remaining site contaminants upon human health and the environment. A summary of field
investigations undertaken at SS-011 is given in Table 2-1.
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TABLE 2-1
INVESTIGATION CHRONOLOGY
SS-011 RI
PLATTSBURGH AFB
PROGRAM
Preliminary Assessment
Site Inspection
Remedial Investigation
(Phase I)
Supplemental Groundwater
Sampling
Remedial Investigation
(Phase II)
Removal Action
Supplemental Sampling
Event
DATES CONDUCTED
Spring 1984 - Spring 1985
Fall 1987 - Summer 1988
Fall 1988
Summer 1989
Fall 1989
Fall 1991
November 1992
CONSULTANT
Radian
Jordan Co.
E.G. Jordan Co.
E.G. Jordan Co.
E.C. Jordan Co.
E.G. Jordan Co.
URS Consultants, Inc.
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22 Federal Facilities Agreement History
Activities at SS-011 have been conducted as part of the Defense Environmental
Restoration Program (DERP), which was established to clean up hazardous waste disposal and
spill sites at Department of Defense facilities nationwide. The Installation Restoration Program
(IRP) is the U.S. Air Force subcomponent of the DERP. The IRP operates under the scope of
CERCLA, as amended by the 1986 Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act.
The IRP at Plattsburgh AFB has included (1) a Preliminary Assessment to evaluate which
sites are potentially contaminated, (2) Sis to confirm the presence or absence of contamination
at identified sites, and (3) an ongoing RI program at sites confirmed to have contamination. On
November 21, 1989, Plattsburgh AFB was included on the National Priorities List (NPL) of
hazardous waste sites and will be remediated according to the federal facilities agreement entered
into among the U.S. Air Force, USEPA, and NYSDEC on July M), 1991.
35291 .OVOMO
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3.0 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
Plattsburgh AFB has kept the community and other interested parties apprised of activities
at SS-011 through informational meetings, fact sheets, press releases and public meetings. On
August 1, 1989, Plattsburgh AFB held its first Technical Review Committee (TRC) meeting to
involve residents of Clinton County and state and federal regulatory agencies in decisions
concerning IRP environmental response activities. The TRC currently meets quarterly to discuss
plans and results of the RI/FS activities. In December 1990, Plattsburgh AFB released a
community relations plan outlining a program to address community concerns and keep citizens
informed about and involved in activities during remedial activities.
The Plattsburgh AFB Site SS-011 Administrative Record has been available for public
review at Plattsburgh AFB in Plattsburgh, New York since October 20, 1990 and has been
advertized several times during the removal action and RI/FS process. Plattsburgh AFB
published a notice and brief analysis of the Proposed Plan in the Press-Republican on February
24, 1993 and made the Proposed Plan available to the public at the Plattsburgh Public library on
the same date.
On March 9, 1993, Plattsburgh AFB held a public informational meeting to discuss the
results of the RI and the No Further Action alternative, present the Proposed Plan, and answer
questions from the public. No one from the community attended the meeting. On February 24,
1993, Plattsburgh AFB opened a 30-day public comment period to accept public comment on the
alternative presented in the Proposed Plan and on any other documents previously released to the
public. The written comments received during the public comment period and Plattsburgh AFB's
response to comments are included in the attached Responsiveness Summary (See Section 10.0
of this document).
B/ROD/n 3-1
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4.0 SCOPE AND ROLE OF REMOVAL ACTION
On January 18, 1990, USEPA and NYSDEC Project Managers for Pittsburgh AFB
concurred that a non-tune-critical removal action was warranted to facilitate rapid cleanup of
DDT-contaminated soils detected during the 1988 sampling for the RI (Phase I) at Site SS-011.
The objectives of the removal action were to reduce risk to human health and the environment
posed by direct contact with and/or ingestion of DDT-contaminated site soil.
To identify the level to which soils would require removal, a Target Cleanup Level
evaluation was performed (E.G. Jordan, 1990a). Following evaluation of human health and
ecological risks, it was determined that of the two receptors, the non-human (i.e., ecological)
receptors were at greater risk from DDT. Using ecological risk assessment techniques, three
environmental Target Cleanup Levels for DDT were evaluated to assess their impact on the
environment: 1 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg. Based on the results of this evaluation, a
final Target Cleanup Level of 10 mg/kg was selected. This level was further evaluated to assess
the residual risk to human health associated with this concentration of DDT in site soils. This
Target Cleanup Level, which was considered to be protective of ecological and human receptors,
was approved by NYSDEC and USEPA on July 23, 1990.
An Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis (E.G. Jordan, 1990c) was prepared to document
removal action objectives, Target Cleanup Level evaluation, and removal action alternatives.
Because DDT is listed as U061 (a hazardous waste according to 40 CFR Part 261), placement
of excavated DDT-contaminated soil is regulated under the RCRA Land Disposal Restrictions
(LDRs), 40 CFR Part 268. Alternatives for treatment and disposal of the excavated soil were
developed with regard to LDR treatment standards and schedules. Each of the alternatives
included excavation of all soil above the 10 mg/kg Target Cleanup Level. The selected action,
involved excavation, offsite land disposal of soil containing less than 1,000 mg/kg of DDT (in
a RCRA landfill), and offsite incineration of soil containing greater than or equal to 1,000 mg/kg
DDT. This alternative was selected because it would be protective of human health and the
environment, ARAR-compliant, readily implementable, and cost-effective.
The removal action was initiated in August 1991 by TRICIL Environmental Response of
Chattanooga, Tennessee. Approximately 400 feet of railroad track was removed and 600 cubic
yards of soil were excavated.
Railroad ties, ballast, grubbed materials, and excavated soils containing less than 1,000
mg/kg of DDT were transported off site by a licensed hazardous waste hauler to the GSX
Services Landfill in Pinewood, South Carolina. Soils containing DDT at 1,000 mg/kg or greater
(45 cubic yards) were transported to the Trade Waste, Inc. incinerator in Sauget, Illinois.
Transportation vehicles were decontaminated before leaving the site.
Sampling and analysis were conducted concurrently during excavation activities by
TRICIL to confirm that all soils exceeding the 10 mg/kg target level had been excavated and to
determine which excavated soils contained greater than or less than 1,000 mg/kg of DDT.
Ninety-eight (98) samples were collected by TRICIL and analyzed by quick laboratory turnaround
for DDT, DDE, and DDD. Twenty (20) percent of the samples were collected in duplicate and
shipped to a USEPA-approved laboratory for analysis. Twenty (20) sample locations within the
33291.03/0600
e/ROD/om 4-1
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excavated area (SS-11-028 through SS-11-047) were randomly selected and soil samples were
collected by ABB-ES for: (1) laboratory analysis; (2) final Level D confirmation of the adequacy
of the removal action; and (3) use in the baseline risk assessment. These samples were collected
at the bottom of the excavation. Six of the samples (SS-11-028, SS-11-032, SS-11-037, SS-11-
042, SS-11-044, and SS-11-046) were split with NYSDEC. No statistical variation was identified
between the split-sample data sets. Results of the first round of random sampling indicated that
six of the sample locations continued to exceed the 10 mg/kg DDT cleanup target.
Locations where DDT levels exceeded 10 mg/kg were excavated further and resampled
by TRICIL. Six additional samples were collected by Pittsburgh AFB and NYSDEC at the
locations where the level of DDT had been greater than 10 mg/kg in the random sampling round.
These data were used for final confirmation of the adequacy of the removal action.
Aroclor 1260 (a PCB) was detected in two of the samples (at 8.1 and 0.34 ppm) collected
during the random sampling, both occurring at locations outside the excavation. Two additional
soil samples (SS-11-048 and SS-11-049) were collected in the center of the reported PCB spill.
No PCBs were detected in either of these samples.
The depth and extent of the excavation is presented in Figure 4-1.
Excavation and removal of soil and debris from the site was completed in November
1991. Site restoration began immediately upon the completion of the removal action. Excavated
areas were backfilled with clean fill similar to the original soil removed and the areas were
regraded to restore original drainage patterns as indicated by the topographic survey. Regraded
areas were then replanted with native plants. The railroad tracks were replaced using the original
(decontaminated) rails and new ties and ballast, and the fence surrounding the DRMO was
repaired. Site restoration was completed during the spring of 1992.
Ongoing post-closure activities at the site consist of inspections to assess the general
condition of the site, including the progress of revegetation and potential effects of runoff from
or onto the site. One inspection was completed in 1992 and future inspections are planned at
five-year intervals.
Site SS-011 is one of a number of individual areas at the PAFB, a National Priorities List
Site, being investigated for potential remediation activities. Remediation of other areas at PAFB
has or will be addressed in separate studies/Records of Decision.
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AC-47II
UIOO 1/28/93-1
IT ."I'.-L
i IM iiiVfii lira 111111
LEGEND;
A 1991 SOIL SAMPLE
* MONITORING WELL
I I I I I I RAILROAD TRACK.
^^^^. TREELINE
GRIDLINES
-* H- FENCE
EXCAVATION DEPTH
I I = 12"
SOURCE
ABB ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES. INC.
FEBRUARY 1992
= 24"
= >24"
100
100
SCALE IN FEET
1
DRMO SS-OII
DEPTH OF EXCAVATION
1
FIGURE 4-1
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5.0 SUMMARY OF SITE CHARACTERISTICS
To define the nature and distribution of contaminants detected during the SI, a two-phased
RI was conducted. The data quality objectives for the RI were to: (1) define the distribution of
DDT-contaminated soils to support a removal action and baseline risk assessment; (2) confirm
cleanup of a transformer (PCB oil) spill that had occurred at the site; and (3) confirm the
upgradient origin of halogenated organic chemicals in groundwater. During the RI, the site was
physically and chemically characterized in order to reach the data quality objectives.
The site is underlain by Pleistocene marine deposits consisting of poorly-graded, medium-
to-fme sand deposits changing to silt and fine sand down to a depth of 30 feet on the west side
and 4 feet on the east side. This deposit is underlain by a layer of firm clay approximately 7 feet
thick. The clay is in turn underlain by approximately 16 feet of glacial till, with carbonate
bedrock below. A geologic cross-section is presented in Figure 5-1. The water table was
encountered approximately 2 to 7 feet below ground surface. Groundwater flow is to the
southeast, as shown in Figure 5-2, with a horizontal gradient of about 0.02 ft/ft. The seepage
velocity was calculated to be about 73 feet per year.
Potential migration of contaminants from surficial soil was identified to be through
groundwater, surface water/sediments, fugitive dust, and vapors. Potential receptors included
humans (area and on-base personnel), and biota (terrestrial and aquatic). Potential exposure
routes included ingestion, direct contact, and inhalation. It was determined, however, that
migration of contaminants off site via groundwater or in eroded surface sediments does not
appear to be occurring.
Investigation of site characteristics has included the installation of a monitoring well
network on site and upgradient of the DRMO, a Soil Organic Vapor (SOV) survey, surface soil
sampling, the advancement of subsurface soil borings, and chemical analysis of samples in field
and offsite laboratories.
In the fall of 1989, an extensive field screening program was implemented to determine
the area! and subsurface distribution of DDT. The purpose of this field screening was to support
a Target Cleanup Level (TCL) determination to address human health and ecological risks. An
Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis (EE/CA) for a DDT soil removal action was conducted
based on the TCL. USEPA and NYSDEC concurred that a non-time-critical removal action
would be warranted to facilitate rapid cleanup. A field screening sampling plan was designed
using a grid with 20-foot node spacing. The grid was extended, as data from field screening
became available, to encompass depressions and drainage pathways containing detectable
concentrations of pesticides. Approximately 150 samples were collected and analyzed in the field
to provide real-time data and to further direct the sampling program. Three small areas of
relatively high (greater than 100 ppm) DDT concentrations were identified during the field
screening investigation. Results of the field screening are shown in Figure 5-3. Data from this
investigation were used to develop the plan for the 1991 removal action (see Section 4.0).
A summary of organic and inorganic chemicals remaining in the soil and the groundwater
matrices following the 1991 removal action is given as Table 5-1. Remaining pesticide
contamination is confined to the surface and near-surface soils.
35291,05/OMX)
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O
A-47O9
WEST
A
170 -i
160
SEISMIC TRAVERSE UNE
INTERSECTION
ISO -
I
fc
ff
130
120 -
110 -
too -
SPILL SITE
OHMO STORAGE AREA
OELTAIC/NEAR SHORE DEPOSITS
(SAND SP/SM)
EAST
A'
- I/O
- 160
- ISO
OLACtAt LACUSTRINE/DEEP WATER DEPOSITS
(CLAV
GLACIAL TILL
(SILT. SAND AND GRAVEL SW/ML)
CARBONATE BEDROCK
in
ui
IL
130 O
4
- 120 "»
. no
- too
LEGEND
MONITORING WELL 2" PVC
WI^JB*.^***
? WATER LEVEL
SCALE IN FEET
0 200 400
VERTICAL EXAGGERATION 10:1
SCREEN INTERVAL
NOTE:
PROFILE REPRESENTS AN INTERPRETATION OF AVAILABLE
SUBSURFACE EXPLORATIONS. ACTUAL CONDITIONS MAY
I THOSE (SHOWN IN I MIS HGUHE
-------
LEGEND
154 GROUNDWATER ELEVATION CONTOUR
MONITORING WELL
SURFACE DRAINAGE
FIGURE 5-2 Potentiometric Surface - January 1989
9201163C
-------
AC-47IZ
1=100 1/28/93-1
600
LEGEND:
A 1991 SOIL SAMPLE
9 MONITORING WELL
I I I M I RAILROAD TRACK
^»^^ TREELINE
GRIDLINES
•* H- FENCE
LEGEND
O DDT < 0.27 MG/KG
(D DDT 0.27 - I.O MG/KG
DDT 1.0 - 10 MG/KG
Q DDT 10 - 100 MG/KG
• DDT > IOO MG/KG
SOURCE
ABB ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
FEBRUARY 1992
100
100
SCALE IN FEET
1
SUMMARY OF DOT SCREENING DATA
DRMO SS-OII
1
FIGURE 5-3
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TABLE 5-1
•SUMMARY OF ORGANIC AND INORGANIC CHEMICALS REMAINING ON SITE
MATRIX
Soil (1)
Groundwater (2)
CHEMICAL
Tetrachloroelhene
Xylene (Total)
bis(2-elhylnexyl)phthalate
DOO
DDE
DDT
alpha-Chlordane
gamrna-Chlordane
Methoxychlor
beta-BHC
Dieldrin
Heptachlor
Aroclor-1260
Heptachlor Epoxide
Aluminum
Barium
Beryllium
Cadmium
Calcium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Magnesium
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Potassium
Vanadium
Zinc
2-Butanone*
1,2-Dichloroethene (total)*
Benzene*
Naphthalene*
bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate*
MAXIMUM DETECTED
CONCENTRATION
(ppm)
0.014
0.009
0.530
4.200
0.670
13.00
0.220
0.330
0.065
0.029
0.078
0.060
8.100
0.076
10.900
100
2.600
9.200
15.900
61
40
79,200
75
10.300
570
0.630
16
2,740
109
135
0.026
0.0015
0.001
0.0045
0.0075
(1) Includes surface and subsurface soils.
(2) Onsite wells only (MW-11-002; MW-11-003; MW-11-004)
* Analyte detected in one or more upgradient well.
33291.03/06/00
E/ROD/mm
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Soil containing DDT at levels exceeding 10 mg/kg was excavated and removed from the
site during the removal action (Section 4.0). Three confirmatory soil sample concentrations were
found to marginally exceed the target cleanup level. In November 1992, additional borings were
advanced and soil samples taken to further define the post-removal action distribution of DDT.
As a result of the supplemental sampling data, NYSDEC and USEPA accepted the soil removal
action as removing all soil contaminated above the 10 ppm cleanup level. The distribution of
post-excavation residual DDT is depicted on Figure 5-4. Because hydrocarbons found at the
DRMO are associated with the DDT, this removal action based on DDT level has removed most
of the PHC-contaminated soil as well. No PCBs were detected in any soil sample taken in the
vicinity of the transformer spill area. However, PCBs were detected near the pesticide spill,
including one subsurface detection outside the excavated area and one at the base of the
excavation.
Halogenated organic chemicals, especially TCE and DCE, are present at detectable
concentrations in groundwater samples collected from wells upgradient of the DRMO. All
analytes detected in onsite wells were also detected in the upgradient well network. The analytes
were also found to be at higher concentrations in the upgradient wells compared to the
concentrations observed in the onsite wells. Therefore, groundwater contamination present in
wells on site is likely due to an upgradient source. This upgradient contaminant source is
currently under investigation as part of the Remedial Investigation at SS-017.
A more detailed description of the site's physical and chemical characteristics may be
found in the Administrative Record.
33291.05/06000
E/ROD/ma 5-2
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AC-4706
I=IOO 1/26/93-1
LEGEND:
A 1991 SOIL SAMPLE
• MONITORING WELL
LEGEND
SOURCE
ABB ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
FEBRUARY 1992
I 1 I t I I RAILROAD TRACK I
^-^-^-^. TREELINE
GRIDLINES
-H K- FENCE
J O < 0.27 MG/KG
(D 027 - 1.0 MG/KG VALUES FROM EXCAVATED AREA
ARE TAKEN FROM THE BASE OF '00
THE EXCAVATION PRIOR TO BACKFILLING
$ 1.0 - 10.0 MG/KG
100
0 10.0 13.0 MG/KG WITH CLEAN SOIL
SCALE IN FEET
1
ORMO SS-OII
POST - EXCAVATION RESIDUAL DDT
1
FIGURE 5-4
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6.0 SUMMARY OF SITE RISKS
A baseline risk assessment (RA) was conducted as part of the RI to evaluate whether site
contaminants pose an unacceptable risk to public health or the environment.
6.1 Contaminated Media
Contaminated media evaluated in the RA for SS-011 include soils, both surface and
shallow subsurface, and groundwater. Soil contamination at SS-011, attributable to reported
spillage of containerized pesticides in a petroleum-based carrier, occurred along the eastern edge
of the DRMO yard from 1970 through 1972. A removal action undertaken in August 1991
included excavation of soils contaminated with greater than 10 mg/kg of DDT and subsequent
offsite disposal or incineration of the contaminated soil. In addition, a transformer (PCB oil) spill
occurred during the winter of 1981 in the northwest corner of the paved yard. The spilled fluids
were immediately cleaned off the frozen pavement surface and the area was excavated the
following spring. The extent of PCB occurrence at the DRMO has been demonstrated by
extensive surface and subsurface soil and groundwater sampling during the Remedial
Investigation.
Some organic contaminants were detected in groundwater samples collected from the 3
monitoring wells located on site. A larger suite of chemicals, including all the contaminants
detected at SS-011, has been detected in monitoring wells immediately upgradient from the
DRMO. This suggests an upgradient source for some or all of the contaminants detected in
groundwater at SS-011.
6.2 Contaminants of Concern
In order to make a comprehensive assessment of the human health risk posed by the
contaminated media at SS-011, all analytes detected in non-excavated soil and groundwater at the
site are considered to be contaminants of concern. These analytes are listed by matrix in Table
6-1.
6.3 Exposure Scenarios
Three human exposure scenarios were evaluated as part of the RA, including:
1) Present Use - Potentially exposed populations include base workers at the DRMO
and youth trespassers (ages 6-18). The routes of exposure are limited to dermal
contact with and incidental ingestion of contaminated surface soils.
2) Future Residential Construction - In this scenario, the base is considered closed
and residential development of the SS-011 site is in the construction stage.
Construction workers are the exposed population. Exposure would result from
incidental ingestion, dermal contact, or inhalation of fugitive dust.
35291 .OHO6KO
E/ROD/mm 6-1
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TABLE 6-1
CONTAMINANTS OF CONCERN
UTILIZED IN RISK ASSESSMENT
DRMO SS-011
MATRIX
Surface Soils
All Soils (Surface and Subsurface)
Groundwater
CONTAMINANTS OF
DDD
DDE
DDT
alpha -Chlordane
gamma-C hlordane
Melhoxychlor
Aluminum
Barium
Beryllium
Cadmium
Tetrachloroelhene
Xylene (Total)
bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate
DDD
DDE
DDT
alpha-C hlordane
gamma-C hlordane
Methoxychlor
beta-BHC
Dicldrin
Hcptachlor
Aroclor-1260
Heptachlor Epoxide
2-Butanone
1,2-Dichloroethcne (total)
Benzene
Naphthalene
bis(2-Ethylhexyl)phthalate
CONCERN
Calcium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Magnesium
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Potassium
Vanadium
Zinc
Aluminum
Barium
Beryllium
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Iron
Lead
Magnesium
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Potassium
Banadium
Zinc
33291.05/06/00
E/ROD/mjn
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3) Completed Future Residential Development - In this scenario, the base is
considered closed, residential development of SS-011 has been completed, and
the development has been occupied. The exposed populations include children
and adults exposed via dermal contact with or incidental ingestion of
contaminated surface soils or subsurface soils that have been disturbed by
construction activities. Ingestion of contaminated ground water and inhalation
of vapor-phase chemicals while showering (adults only) is also considered in this
scenario.
6.4 Risks to Human Populations
Based upon the results of the RA, no threat to public health is posed by contaminants
present at SS-011. No unacceptable carcinogenic or chronic risk based upon USEPA guidelines
is evident given the Present Use and Future Residential Construction scenarios.
Analysis of risk given the Completed Future Residential Development scenario yields a
hazard index (chronic risk) of less than one, which indicates that the noncarcinogenic risk is
acceptable. The cancer risk is 2x10"*. This indicates that 20 additional persons out of one
million are at risk of developing cancer if no further action is taken and the site is developed
according to this scenario as outlined in the RA. This risk is within the acceptable range (1x10*
to 1x10"*) established for remedial action by the National Contingency Plan.
A summary of calculated carcinogenic and chronic risks for each exposure scenario is
presented in Table 6-2.
6.5 Summary of Environmental Risks
An ecological exposure assessment, hazard identification, and risk assessment were
undertaken to evaluate the potential for exposure of terrestrial receptors to chemicals at SS-011,
and to quantify any adverse affects. Based upon this analysis, minimal individual effects and no
significant population-level effects to ecological receptors are expected.
35291.03/06/00
E/ROO/nn 6-2
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TABLE 6-2
SUMMARY OF HUMAN HEALTH RISKS
SCENARIO
Present Use
Future
Residential
Construction
Completed
Future
Residential
Development
PATHWAY
Oermai Contact
with Soil
Ingestion of Soil
Dermal Contact
with Soil
Ingestion of Soil
Inhalation of
Fugitive Oust
Dermal Contact
with Soil
Ingestion of Soil
Ingestion of
Ground water
Inhalation of Vapor
While Showering
RECEPTOR
Worker
Youth
Worker
Youth
Worker
Worker
Worker
Child/ Adult
Child/Adult
Child/Adult
Child/Adult
CANCER RISK
NV
NV
3x10''
8xlO'7
lxlO'7
3xlO-7
5x10"'
IxlO'5
IxlO-5
2x10-°
2x10-"
HAZARD
QUOTIENT
5x1 (T
2xlO-2
7x10-"
4xlO'2
NV
3xlO'5
2xlO'2
2xlO'2
2xlO'1
3xlO':
3xlO-3
NV = No value calculated since USEPA - approved dermal absorption factors were unavailable
for contaminants of concern.
33291.05/06/00
E/ROD/mm
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7.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE NO FURTHER ACTION PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE
The removal action undertaken in 1991 was considered to be protective of human health
and the environment, and to be ARAR-compliant by NYSDEC and USEPA who approved the
Target Cleanup Level on July 23, 1990. Sampling and analysis were conducted concurrently
during removal activities, to determine the adequacy of the removal action, and for use in the
baseline risk assessment (RA). Results of the RA show that the removal action was fully
effective in achieving protection of human health and the environment. Therefore, no alternatives
other than a No Further Action alternative were considered. No Further Action is the single and
the preferred alternative. This alternative includes the following elements:
1) No further action will be undertaken at SS-011 to reduce site contaminants
beyond their current levels.
2) Inspections will be conducted to assess the general condition of the site, including
the progress of revegetation in areas disturbed by the removal action and the
potential effects of runoff from or onto the site. The first inspection was
• completed in 1992. Future inspections are planned at 5-year intervals. After
each inspection, an evaluation will be undertaken to insure the continued
protection of human health and the environment.
The upgradient groundwater contamination that was detected during investigations at Site
SS-011 will be dealt with in a separate remedial investigation as part of the IRP.
35291.01/10600
E/ROD/oa 7-1
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9.0 STATE ROLE
NYSDEC, on behalf of the State of New York, has reviewed the RI, RA, and the
preferred alternative, both from the viewpoint of health and environmental risk, and from the
viewpoint of compliance with ARARs. NYSDEC concurs with the selection of the preferred
alternative. A copy of NYSDEC's declaration of concurrence may be found in Appendix A.
33291.03/06/00
E/ROD/mm 9-1
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8.0 DOCUMEiNTATION OF NO SIGNIFICANT CHANGES
The chosen remedial action for SS-011 is No Further Action. This action does not differ
from the preferred alternative presented in the Proposed Plan.
35291.05/0*00
E/ROD/mm g.[
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