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Summary of Testing at Superfund National Priority List Sites
Test Results
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- Ciba-Geigy, McIntosh, AL
- Olin-McIntosh Plant, McIntosh, AL
- Perdido Groundwater Contamination, Perdido, AL
- Redwing Carriers (Saraland Apartments), Saraland, AL
- Stauffer-Cold Creek, LeMoyne, AL
- Stauffer-LeMoyne, LeMoyne, AL
- Full report describing methodology and analysis for sites in Alabama and Mississippi (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
- Agriculture Street Landfill, Orleans Parish, New Orleans, LA
- Bayou Bonfouca, Slidell LA
- Bayou Sorrel, Iberville Parish, LA
- Central Wood Preserving, East Felicia Parish, LA
- Cleve Reber, Ascension Parish, LA
- Combustion, Inc., Livingston Parish, LA
- Delatte Metals, Tangipahoa Parish, LA
- D.L. Mud, Inc., Vermillion Parish, LA
- Dutchtown Treatment Plant, Ascension Parish, LA
- Gulf Coast Vacuum, Abbeville, LA
- Gulf States Utilities, Lake Charles, LA
- Madisonville Creosoting, Madisonville, LA
- Mallard Bay Landing, Grand Cherniere, LA
- Old Inger Refinery, Ascension Parish, LA
- PAB Oil, Abbeville, LA
- Petro-Processors of Louisiana, Inc., East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
- Southern Shipbuilding, Slidell, LA
- American Creosote Works, Louisville, MS
- Davis Timber, Hattiesburg, MS
- Picayune Wood Treating, Picayune, MS
- Full report describing methodology and analysis for sites in Alabama and Mississippi (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
- Bailey Waste Disposal, Bridge City, TX
- Gulfco Marine, Freeport, TX
- Hart Creosoting, Jasper, TX
- Jasper Creosoting, Jasper, TX
- Malone Services Company, Texas City, TX
- MOTCO, LaMarque, TX
- Palmer Barge, Port Arthur, TX
- Petrochemical Systems, Liberty, TX
- Star Lake Canal, Port Neches, TX
- State Marine, Jefferson County
- Tex Tin, Galveston County
- Triangle Chemical, Orange County
From September 29, 2005, through October 14, 2005, a team of EPA contractors collected samples at the National Priority List sites in Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast of Texas to assess any potential impacts that Hurricanes Katrina and Rita may have had on remedies completed at those sites. EPA has received, evaluated and is posting validated analytical data for these sites as the data become available. EPA’s conclusions regarding the potential impact of the hurricanes on these sites are based on a comparison of post-hurricane data to past sample data collected during routine monitoring activities.
During the period from October 12 through October 14, 2005, EPA collected sediment, surface water and groundwater samples in the vicinity of nine National Priorities List (NPL) sites in Alabama and Mississippi to assess the potential impact that Hurricane Katrina may have had on those sites. EPA’s conclusions regarding the potential impact of the hurricane on these sites are based on a comparison of post-hurricane data to existing soil and sediment cleanup values defined for the site, or past sample data collected during remedial investigations or routine monitoring activities. In addition, the results were compared to EPA Region 9 Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs) and the Office of Water's 2004 National Recommended Water Quality Criteria (NRWQC) to determine if conditions at the sites might represent previously unrecognized risks to human health and the environment. EPA Region 9 PRGs (available at: https://www.epa.gov/region9/waste/sfund/prg/index.html) are risk-based concentrations based on long-term (i.e., 30-year) exposures to children and adults in a residential setting. The PRGs are intended to assist risk assessors and others in initial screening-level evaluations of environmental measurements. EPA Region 4 uses Region 9 PRGs as part of the risk evaluation process for both its remedial and removal programs. EPA Office of Water's 2004 NRWQC (available at: https://www.epa.gov/waterscience/criteria/wqcriteria.html ) are a compilation of surface water quality criteria for the protection of aquatic life and human health for approximately 150 pollutants.
Alabama
Ciba-Geigy is an active chemical facility which, in the past, produced the pesticide, dichlorodiphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT). Sediment and surface water was sampled in the vicinity of the Ciba-Geigy facility’s permitted National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) outfall. Additionally, a sample of the on-site permitted wastewater effluent was also collected. All samples were analyzed for diazinon and pesticide/PCB compounds.
The pesticide DDT, and its metabolites (i.e., breakdown products) DDD and DDE were detected in two sediment samples. In one sample, DDT, DDD and DDE were detected at 3.3 ug/kg, 4.4 ug/kg, and 7.1 ug/kg, respectively. In the second sample, DDT, DDD and DDE were detected at 20 ug/kg, 33 ug/kg, and 5 ug/kg, respectively. None of the detected levels of DDT, DDD and DDE exceeded residential Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs). Likewise, the reported levels for diazinon were below its residential PRG of 55,000 ug/kg.
Based on these sampling results, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
Olin-McIntosh Plant, McIntosh, AL
The Olin-McIntosh plant is an active chemical facility that previously used mercury in its processes. Surface water and sediment samples were collected at two locations at the Olin-McIntosh plant and were analyzed for mercury and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs).
Total mercury, was detected in one sediment sample at 0.58 mg/kg, which is consistent with results obtained from the 1991-1992 sampling for the remedial investigation conducted at the site. 1,3-Dichlorobenzene was detected in the same sediment sample at 4 ug/kg. This level is well below the 140 mg/kg cleanup level set for the site and the risk-based Preliminary Remediation Goal (PRG) of 530 mg/kg. Mercury was detected in one surface water sample, at a concentration of 0.21 ug/l. The detected concentration is below the National Recommended Water Quality Criteria (NRWQC) value of 0.77 ug/l, but above the State of Alabama standard for protection of aquatic life of 0.012 ug/l. This sample, however, was not taken in a permanent body of water capable of sustaining aquatic life. Furthermore, the reported concentration is less than concentrations of mercury previously detected in surface water samples at the site.
Reported concentrations of site-related contaminants of concern are consistent with historical characterization data and no chemicals were found to exceed risk-based PRGs. Thus, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
Perdido Groundwater Contamination, Perdido, AL
The Perdido Groundwater Contamination Site is a 15-acre site with benzene contaminated groundwater caused by a 1965 train derailment. The remedy for the site includes a groundwater extraction and treatment system.
Two water samples, one of untreated groundwater and one of treated groundwater, were collected from the groundwater treatment system at the site. Both samples were analyzed for volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). No VOCs were detected in either sample.
Based on these sampling results, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
Redwing Carriers (Saraland Apartments), Saraland, AL
From 1961 to 1971, Redwing Carriers, Inc., a trucking company, owned and operated the Saraland site as a terminal for cleaning, repairing and parking its fleet of trucks. The chemicals of concern for the site are polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon compounds (PAHs), pesticides, herbicides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Two sediment samples were collected from ditches adjacent to and down gradient of the site.
Seven different PAHs were detected in the samples. The level of benzo[a]pyrene in one sample (150 ug/kg) exceeded the residential Preliminary Remediation Goal (PRG), but fell within a risk range of 1 in 1,000,000 to 1 in 10,000 risk of an individual developing cancer over a lifetime from exposure to those concentrations, which USEPA has found acceptable in other contexts. The levels of the other PAHs detected, as well as the levels of Dieldrin and DDE, were below residential PRGs.
Based on these sampling results, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
Stauffer-Cold Creek, LeMoyne, AL
The Stauffer-Cold Creek plant is an active chemical production facility, now owned and operated by Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc. Syngenta produces agricultural pesticide and herbicides, including thiocarbamates; thus, samples were analyzed for a suite of thiocarbamate herbicides, including Butylate (Sutan™), Molinate (Ordram™), Cycloate (Ro-Neet™), EPTC (Eptam™), Pebulate (Tillam™) and Vernolate (Vernam™). Four sediment samples were collected near the facility’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) outfalls and were analyzed for six targeted thiocarbamate herbicides.
Five of the thiocarbamate herbicides were detected in three of the four samples. Detected concentrations of the thiocarbamate herbicides were below available residential Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs).
Based on these sampling results, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
The Stauffer-LeMoyne plant is an active chemical production facility. Past production at the plant included carbon tetrachloride, chlorine and caustic soda (sodium hydroxide). Two sediment samples were collected near the facility’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) outfalls.
The samples were analyzed for total mercury, cyanide and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). Total mercury was detected. The level of total mercury 0.87 mg/kg is below the residential Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs) for both total mercury (33 mg/kg) and methyl mercury (6.1 mg/kg).
Based on these sampling results, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
Louisiana
Agriculture Street Landfill, Orleans Parish, New Orleans, LA
EPA collected 74 soil samples at 23 locations at this landfill site on October 1 and 2, 2005. Samples were collected from above the geotextile liner (12" - 24" below ground surface) installed as part of the remedy. Samples were collected at three inch intervals from the surface to the liner at five locations. Lead was the contaminant of concern addressed by the cleanup at the site. The lead concentrations found in the samples collected were compared to the lead cleanup level for the site of 480 parts per million (ppm) in the surface soil. The highest concentration of lead found in any sample collected was 363 ppm. The average concentration of lead amongst all the samples was 15 ppm. The results of the sampling indicate that flooding did not cause any upward movement of lead through the cover soils. The sampling team also observed that the geotextile liner was at the appropriate depth at each location. This finding provides further evidence that the remedy was not impacted by the flooding.
Although the remedy for the site was not impacted by the hurricane, samples of sediments deposited by flooding in the area contained levels of Benzo(a)pyrene that exceeded Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) Risk Evaluation/Corrective Action Program (RECAP) criteria. Thus, USEPA and LDEQ are conducting further sampling of sediments in the area.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
EPA collected 2 ground water samples at the site on October 1, 2005. The remedy at this former wood treating facility, completed in November 1991, included incineration of contaminated soil and sediment on-site. The incinerator ash was disposed of in a RCRA Compliant landfill on-site. Organic chemicals found in creosote were the contaminants of concern addressed by the cleanup at the site. The concentrations of organic chemicals found in the ground water samples collected were compared to the concentrations of contaminants reported in routine sampling that was last conducted in December 2004. Naphthalene, not detected in December 2004, was detected at a concentration of 3,480 micrograms per liter (ug/L) in one ground water sample taken on October 1. Fluorine and acenaphthene, not detected in December 2004, were detected in ground water samples collected on October 1. However, the concentrations of these chemicals did not exceed the Region 6 screening levels for tap water.
The water supply for area residents is pumped from ground water approximately 3,000 feet below the ground surface. Due to the depth of the drinking water aquifer in the area of the site, site contaminants have not affected the area drinking water supply. Local authorities have sampled the public water supply wells several times since the hurricane and have reported no problems with the water supply. The site wells will continue to be monitored according to the routine operation and maintenance plan for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Bayou Sorrel, Iberville Parish, LA
On October 14, 2005, EPA collected ground water samples from 3 monitoring wells at the Bayou Sorrel Superfund Site. The site is located in a swamp and shallow ground water is not used as a water supply due to its naturally poor quality. There are no residents living in the vicinity of the site. The site was as a disposal site for pesticides and herbicide wastes. The remedy for this site included containment of the waste onsite by capping the waste in place, building a slurry wall around the site to prevent migration, and ground water monitoring for volatile organic compounds. The site was deleted from the National Priorities List on September 29, 1997.
EPA’s evaluation of the data from the samples indicates that the contaminants of concern were not detected in any of the samples taken in October 2005. Arsenic was detected above the drinking water standard in all three samples collected. Four organic chemicals, 1,2-dichloroethane, dibromofluoromethane, toluene, and 4-bromofluorobenzene were also detected in each of the samples collected. Although the arsenic concentration has increased since April 2005, when the last routine monitoring samples were collected, the ground water does not pose a risk to human health or the environment. The organic chemicals detected in the October samples were not related to the site and have not been included in the routine monitoring analyses. Therefore, EPA concludes that the site was not affected by the hurricanes.
EPA will continue to monitor the ground water according to the routine operation and maintenance plan for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Central Wood Preserving, East Felicia Parish, LA
On October 7 and 8, 2005, EPA collected surface soil samples from 65 locations onsite to evaluate the possibility of using this former wood treating facility as a possible temporary relocation site in response to Hurricane Katrina. On October 12, ground water samples were collected from two monitoring wells at the site. The remedy for this site, completed in August 2004, included onsite thermal treatment of creosote waste; offsite disposal of the treated residual arsenic contaminated soil and sediment, and building and demolition debris; and ground water monitoring.
The results of the shallow soil samples indicate that arsenic concentrations on the northern half of the site remain well below residential cleanup levels. The sample results from the southern half of the site exceeded the action level for arsenic established for the site. These results are inconsistent with the previous sampling conducted in the Remedial Investigation (RI), which indicated that the arsenic levels on the southern half of the site would meet the residential cleanup goal following removal of select hot spots. A potential reason for this inconsistency is the difference in sample interval used in the October 2005 sampling and the sampling conducted during the RI. In the RI, samples were collected at an interval of 0” – 18” compared to a 0” – 3” interval used in the recent sampling. Based on the results of this sampling, use of the southern half of the site for residential use should be restricted.
No contaminants of concern (arsenic or polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons) were detected in either ground water sample collected from the site.
EPA does not believe that the Central Wood Preserving site was affected by the hurricane. EPA will continue to monitor the ground water according to the routine operation and maintenance plan for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Cleve Reber, Ascension Parish, LA
On October 12, 2005, EPA collected two ground water samples at the Cleve Reber Superfund Site. The site was used for the disposal of municipal and industrial wastes from the surrounding area. The remedy for the site included onsite incineration of contaminated soil, use of the incinerator ash as backfill, construction of a cap over the site, and ground water monitoring. The site is located in a sparsely populated, swampy area of Louisiana. The site was deleted from the National Priorities List in December 1997. None of the contaminants of concern, including carbon tetrachloride, tetrachloroethane, hexachlorobenzene, hexaclorobutadiene, hexachloroethane, and mercury was detected in the samples collected. Therefore, EPA does not believe that the ground water at the site was affected by the hurricanes.
EPA will continue to monitor the ground water according to the routine operation and maintenance plan for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Combustion, Inc., Livingston Parish, LA
On October 13, 2005, EPA collected ground water samples from two monitoring wells at this former oil reclamation facility. The remedy for this site, selected in May 2004, includes phytoremediation and monitored natural attenuation to address organic contamination in the shallow ground water. The Responsible Parties for the site are currently developing the engineering design for the remedy.
No organic chemicals were detected in the October 2005 ground water samples collected from the Combustion, Inc., site. Therefore, EPA does not believe that the site was affected by the hurricane.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Delatte Metals, Tangipahoa Parish, LA
EPA collected ground water samples from 2 monitoring wells at the site on October 1 and 11, 2005. The remedy at the former lead acid battery recycling facility, completed in September 2004, included the removal and disposal of highly contaminated material at an approved off-site disposal facility. Lead was the contaminant of concern that was addressed by the cleanup at the site. The results of the ground water samples collected on October 1 and 11 were compared to samples collected in May 2005, as part of the regular ground water monitoring program. This comparison indicates that the concentrations of 4 metals; arsenic, lead, manganese, and nickel have increased in one monitoring well from the concentrations reported in May 2005. In the other monitoring well, only manganese was found at a concentration higher than reported in May 2005.
EPA will continue to monitor the ground water according to the routine operation and maintenance plan for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
D.L. Mud, Inc., Vermillion Parish, LA
On October 1, 2005, EPA collected two shallow ground water samples from monitoring wells at this site, which was used for the formulation of drilling mud. In 1987, the Responsible Parties for the site removed the contents of a tank farm and contaminated soil for offsite incineration under the direction of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. The Responsible Parties also dismantled the surface structures at the site. The Superfund remedy, completed in June 1999, included the excavation and offsite disposal of contaminated subsurface soil and ground water monitoring. Shallow ground water is considered inappropriate for domestic use due to high turbidity from silt and clay in the formation.
EPA compared the results of the October 2005 samples to data collected for the Five-Year Review for the site completed in September 2003. The concentrations of metals detected in the October 2005 samples were comparable to the concentrations of metals reported in the Five-Year Review. Therefore, EPA concludes that the remedy implemented at the site was not affected by Hurricanes Katrina or Rita. EPA will continue to monitor the site according to the site operation and maintenance monitoring plan.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Dutchtown Treatment Plant, Ascension Parish, LA
On October 13, 2005, EPA collected ground water samples from two shallow (<12 feet below ground surface) monitoring wells at this former oil refinery and reclamation facility. The contaminants of concern for the site were benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. The remedy for this site, completed in January 1998, included offsite incineration of waste oils, soil washing and onsite disposal of contaminated soil, onsite treatment of storm water, and monitored natural attenuation of shallow ground water contamination. The site was deleted from the National Priorities List in November 1999.
EPA compared the analytical results from the October 2005 samples to data collected in June 2004 as part of the routine monitoring activities for the site. In June 2004, benzene was detected above the Federal drinking water standard of 5 ug/l. EPA found that benzene concentrations did not change significantly in the October 2005 samples when compared to data collected in June 2004. Ethylbenzene was detected in concentrations higher than found in June 2004. The concentration detected was higher than the drinking water standard in one well, and remained below the standard in the other well.
The shallow ground water zone, the only zone where contamination was found in the remedial investigation for the site, is not used as a domestic water supply. There are no water supply wells in the immediate vicinity of the site. Based on the comparison of the October 2005 ground water data to the June 2004 data, EPA does not believe that ground water at the site was affected by the hurricanes. EPA will continue to monitor the ground water according to the routine operation and maintenance plan for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Gulf Coast Vacuum, Abbeville, LA
On October 1, 2005, EPA collected two ground water samples at the Gulf Coast Vacuum site. The site was used for the disposal of oil and gas exploration wastes. The remedy for the site included onsite biological treatment for organic contaminants and stabilization of inorganic contaminants, and was completed in September 1999. EPA compared the October 1 sample results to data presented in the 2003 Five-Year Review for the site. This comparison indicates that metals concentrations have not increased since the Five-Year Review was completed. Organic contamination was not detected in either ground water sample collected at the site.
The monitoring wells that were sampled are screened at depths up
to 40 feet below ground surface. Because the area domestic water
supply wells are screened at depths from 85 feet to 230 feet below
ground surface, EPA believes that area domestic supply wells would
not be affected by the hurricanes.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Gulf States Utilities, Lake Charles, LA
On September 30, 2005, EPA collected 2 surface water samples at Gulf States Utilities as a preliminary assessment of potential impacts from Hurricane Rita. The site was used to produce gas from coal tar until 1932, when natural gas became available to the Lake Charles area. The excavation and offsite disposal of contaminated soil and sediments was completed in July 2002. No constituents of coal tar were detected in either of the surface water samples collected. Therefore, EPA concludes that the remedy at the Gulf States Utilities site was not affected by Hurricane Rita.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Madisonville Creosoting, Madisonville, LA
EPA collected 2 ground water samples at the site on October 1, 2005. The remedy at this former wood-treating facility, completed in June 2000, addressed organic chemicals found in creosote, such as benzo (a) pyrene. The concentrations of these organic chemicals found in the samples were compared to the analytical results from samples collected in December 2004 as part of the regular ground water monitoring program. The results of this comparison indicate that no contaminants of concern were detected in the samples collected on October 1. Based on this preliminary analysis, it appears that the remedy for the site was not affected by flooding.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Mallard Bay Landing, Grand Cherniere, LA
On October 14, 2005, EPA collected two soil samples at this site. The site is a former crude oil refining and bulk storage facility on the Intracoastal Waterway. In October 2003, EPA completed the removal and offsite disposal of 1,120 cubic yards of soil and 220,150 gallons of sludge above concentrations of organic chemicals that would limit the potential reuse of the property. Since the completion of the remedy, however, the site has been redeveloped for unloading oil products from barges.
The samples collected in October 2005 indicate that low concentrations of organic chemicals were found in the soil at the site. EPA believes that the organic chemicals found in the recent soil samples may be the result of recent commercial operations that have begun at the site since the site was deleted from the National Priorities List and are not related to the remedy for the Superfund site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Old Inger Refinery, Ascension Parish, LA
On October 12, 2005, EPA collected ground water samples from two monitoring wells at the Old Inger Refinery Superfund Site. The site, located along a levee of the Mississippi River, was a former oil reclamation facility that was abandoned in 1980. The remedy for the site, completed in October 2001, included biological treatment of the waste oil and disposal under a cap onsite.
None of the contaminants of concern, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) or zinc, were detected in either sample collected. Therefore, EPA concludes that the remedy for the Old Inger Refinery was not affected by the hurricanes.
EPA will continue to monitor the ground water according to the routine operation and maintenance plan for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
On October 1, 2005, EPA collected two ground water samples from shallow monitoring wells at PAB Oil. The site was used for the disposal of oil based drilling mud and other oil field related wastes. Remedial activities at the site addressed sludges contaminated with polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and arsenic. The remedy for this site included stabilization, onsite disposal, and capping of contaminated soil and sludge from the site, and ground water monitoring.
Arsenic and chromium were detected in the shallow groundwater samples above their respective drinking water standards. However, no PAHs were detected.
EPA will continue to monitor the shallow ground water as part of routine Operations and Maintenance (O&M) at the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Petro-Processors of Louisiana, Inc., East Baton Rouge Parish, LA
On October 12, 2005, EPA collected ground water samples from two monitoring wells at this former petrochemical waste disposal facility. The remedy for this site includes capping waste material onsite and removal of non-aqueous phase liquids. The removal of the non-aqueous phase liquids is currently being done by the Responsible Parties for the site. The nearest water supply well is approximately 3,000 feet northeast of the site boundary, and the groundwater is moving southwest (or away from the water supply well).
Organic chemicals were not detected in the samples taken from the site in October 2005. Therefore, EPA does not believe that the site was affected by the hurricane.
EPA will continue to monitor the ground water as part of its oversight of the Responsible Parties implementation of the ground water remedy for the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Southern Shipbuilding, Slidell, LA
EPA collected 2 soil samples at the site on September 30, 2005. Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and several metals from this former ship manufacturing and repair facility were the contaminants of concern addressed by the cleanup at the site. The remedy for the site, completed in July 1997, involved excavation of the contaminated soil and sediment and incineration of the soil at the Bayou Bonfouca site, immediately adjacent to the Southern Shipbuilding site. Sample concentrations were compared to the 1.0 ppm cleanup level for the PAHs, the 2,000 ppm cleanup level for lead, and the 30 ppm cleanup level for arsenic that were set for the site. None of the samples collected from the site contained concentrations of the contaminants of concern above the cleanup levels established for the site. Based on this preliminary analysis, it appears that the remedy for the Southern Shipbuilding site was not affected by flooding.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site
Mississippi
American Creosote Works, Louisville, MS
The American Creosote Works site is a former wood treating facility that operated from 1912 until the late 1990s. Surface water and sediment samples were collected from two locations downstream of the site.
Numerous polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon compounds (PAHs), were detected in the two sediment samples. The results are consistent with the results of previous samples collected at the site. Five site-related PAH compounds were also detected in the surface water samples, but all levels were less than 10 ug/l and below National Recommended Water Quality Criteria (NRWQC).
Based on the site history and the Remedial Project Manager’s direct observations, the contamination observed and documented by this evaluation existed prior to Hurricane Katrina. There is, therefore, no indication that Hurricane Katrina had any adverse impact at the site.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
The Davis Timber Company site is a former timber processing and wood preserving facility operated by the Davis Timber Company from 1972 to the late 1980's. Sediment samples were collected at two locations downstream of the site and analyzed for semi-volatile organic chemicals (SVOCs), dioxins and furans.
Low levels of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon compounds (PAHs), dioxins/furans and pentachlorophenol (PCP) were detected. The results are consistent with the results of previous samples collected at the site in 2004.
Since there does not appear to be any significant change in concentrations of site-related chemicals at the sampled locations, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
Picayune Wood Treating, Picayune, MS
The Picayune Wood Treating site had been used as a wood treating operation from approximately 1946 to 1999. Three sediment samples and one surface water sample were collected in the vicinity of the site and analyzed for semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) including polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
PAHs were detected in sediment samples but not in surface water. The levels of PAHs detected in the sediment exceeded residential Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRGs) but fell within a risk range of 1 in 1,000,000 to 1 in 10,000 risk of an individual developing cancer over a lifetime from exposure to those concentrations, which EPA has found acceptable in other contexts.
Based on these sampling results, EPA does not believe the site was impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
View results | Download data | Assessment of this site | Full report describing methodology and analysis for this site (PDF) (178 pp, 5.6 MB, About PDF)
Texas
Bailey Waste Disposal, Bridge City, TX
On September 28, 2005, EPA collected one sediment sample and one surface water sample from this former industrial waste disposal site. The remedy for the site, completed in 1997, included excavation and offsite disposal of some wastes, and the consolidation and capping of other waste materials onsite. Surface and ground water monitoring were also included in the selected remedy.
The analytical results from the samples collected were compared to sediment and surface water data collected during the remedial investigation for the site. The concentrations of metals and organic chemicals in the September 2005 samples were lower than concentrations found during the remedial investigation.
During the site inspection, EPA noted that one section of the cap was eroded. The Responsible Party for the site was notified and repairs to the cap were made promptly. EPA has concluded that the erosion to the cap was the only impact to the site from Hurricane Rita.
On September 28, 2005, EPA collected two soil samples at this former barge-cleaning and waste disposal facility. At the time of the Hurricane, the site was still under investigation.
Low levels of several organic chemicals and metals were detected in the soil samples collected. The need for remedial action to address contamination at this site is being evaluated as part of the ongoing Superfund remedial investigation/ feasibility study process.
On September 29, 2005, EPA collected two soil samples from this former wood treating facility. In 1995, EPA completed a removal action at this facility to remove existing tanks, structures and equipment, remove liquid waste for offsite disposal, drain the onsite impoundments, stabilize the remaining sludge, and consolidate the sludge and contaminated soil into an onsite waste cell.
No evidence of deterioration of the containment cell was noted during the site inspection. The results of the soil samples were compared to the results of samples collected during the remedial investigation for the site. The concentrations of wood treating chemicals detected in the September 2005 samples were comparable to the concentrations of chemicals reported in the remedial investigation. Therefore, EPA concludes that the site was not affected by Hurricane Rita.
On September 29, 2005, EPA collected two soil samples from this former wood treating facility. In 1996, EPA conducted a removal action to remove existing tanks, structures and equipment, remove liquid waste for offsite disposal, drain the onsite impoundments, stabilize the remaining sludge, and consolidate the sludge and contaminated soil into an onsite waste cell. EPA conducted a second removal action in 1999 to address surface erosion of the onsite waste cell.
During the inspection, EPA saw no evidence of deterioration of the waste containment cell. The results of the soil samples were compared to data collected during the remedial investigation for the site. The concentrations of wood treating chemicals detected in the September 2005 samples were comparable to the concentrations of chemicals reported in the remedial investigation. Therefore, EPA concludes that the site was not affected by Hurricane Rita.
Malone Services Company, Texas City, TX
On September 29, 2005, EPA collected one ground water sample and one surface water sample at this site, formerly used for the reclamation, recycling and disposal of waste oils, acids, caustics, solvents, gasoline, and crude oil tank bottoms. At the time of the Hurricane, the site was still under investigation.
During the inspection, EPA saw no visible impacts to surface structures at the site. The analytical results from the samples collected were compared to ground water and surface water data collected during the remedial investigation for the site. EPA’s comparison indicates that there is no significant difference between the pre- and post- hurricane sample data collected at the site.
EPA concludes that Hurricane Rita had no significant impact on the Malone Services site. However, the need for remedial action at the site will be evaluated as part of the ongoing Superfund remedial investigation/feasibility study process.
On September 28, 2005, EPA collected two ground water samples at this former chemical recycling and disposal site. The remedy for this site, completed in September 1997, included: offsite incineration of oils, sludge, and tar; onsite capping of contaminated soil and construction slurry wall; construction of a pump-and-treat system for contaminated ground water; and, recovery of dense non-aqueous phase liquids (DNAPL) from the ground water table. The Responsible Parties for the site are currently operating the ground water pump-and-treat and DNAPL recovery systems.
During the inspection, EPA observed no evidence of hurricane-associated damage to the waste cap, or the ground water remedial system. No standing water was observed around the waste cap. The perimeter fencing showed no signs of damage from the hurricane.
Although several metals and organic chemicals associated with the site were detected in the ground water samples collected, the contamination does not pose a risk to human health. The ground water in the area of the site is not used for drinking water, and the Responsible Parties will continue to operate the ground water treatment system as part of the ongoing Superfund remedial action at the site.
On September 29, 2005, EPA collected two shallow ground water samples at this former marine barge cleaning facility located along Sabine Lake. A Record of Decision, documenting the selection of a remedy for the site, was signed on September 30, 2005. The remedy to be implemented includes offsite disposal of contaminated soil. EPA did not include ground water remediation or monitoring as part of the selected remedy, as historically, levels of metals detected in groundwater have been close to Federal drinking water standards. In addition, the shallow ground water (4 feet below ground surface) is not used as a drinking water supply and discharges directly into a lake that is not a source of drinking water.
EPA’s evaluation of the data from the September 29 samples indicates that metals concentrations continue to be detected at or below the current Federal drinking water standards. Benzene and MTBE were detected at concentrations slightly higher than concentrations reported in the 2003 annual monitoring report submitted by the Responsible Parties. However, the concentration of benzene is not considered significant as it was one order of magnitude lower than the Federal drinking water standard. MTBE is not a site-related contaminant.
EPA also inspected the site surface to determine if the hurricane may have caused any migration of surface contamination. The remedial project manager for the site reported that the storm surge from Sabine Lake did not flood the site and, therefore, did not cause surface contamination to migrate from the site. Based on these observations and the ground water data collected, EPA believes that contamination from the Palmer Barge site was not affected by Hurricane Rita.
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Petrochemical Systems, Liberty, TX
On September 28, 2005, EPA collected two ground water samples at this former uncontrolled waste dump. The remedy for the site, currently being implemented by the Responsible Party, includes a combination of offsite disposal, and onsite treatment and capping of the wastes. The ground water is also monitored on a routine basis. At one time, portions of the site were used for residential purposes; however, the Responsible Party for the site has purchased the residential properties to prevent future residential development.
The results of the ground water samples were compared to the results of samples collected for routine monitoring by the Responsible Party in February 2005. Volatile organic chemicals were not detected in either the February or September 2005 samples. No metals were detected in the samples collected in September 2005 at levels above their respective Federal drinking water standards.
During the inspection, EPA saw no evidence of damage to the surface of the site, other than a few trees that had been blown down by high wind. Therefore, EPA concludes that the ongoing remedial activities at the site were not impacted by Hurricane Rita.
Star Lake Canal, Port Neches, TX
On September 28, 2005, EPA collected two soil samples at the canal, which was originally built as a municipal and industrial wastewater outfall. At the time of the Hurricane, the site was still under investigation.
During the inspection, EPA saw no evidence of erosion or of any other activity (such as scouring) which might have disturbed the canal. There was no apparent damage from the hurricane or damage from flooding along the canal shorelines.
Low levels of several organic chemicals and metals were detected in the soil samples collected. This site is still under investigation, and the need for a remedial action at this site will be evaluated as part of the ongoing Superfund remedial investigation/ feasibility study process.
State Marine, Jefferson County
On September 29, 2005, EPA collected one ground water and one soil sample at this former barge cleaning facility. In August 2000, EPA conducted a removal action to address several sources of contamination at the site. The removal action included waste removal and offsite disposal, water treatment, oil/water separation, and sludge stabilization.
During the inspection, EPA saw no evidence of hurricane-associated damage to the structures, tanks, monitoring wells, or drums. Some minor damage to trees was observed at the site. There was no evidence of erosion or of any other activity (such as ruts or scouring) which might have disturbed the ground-surface area. There was no evidence of hurricane-related damage or flooding along the Sabine Lake shoreline.
The levels of organic chemicals and metals detected in the ground water and soil samples are comparable to results from previous samples collected during the site remedial investigation. Therefore, EPA concludes that Hurricane Rita had no impact on the site.
On September 28, 2005, EPA collected two ground water samples at this former metal smelter. The remedy for this site, completed in September 2004, addressed numerous piles of waste and slag, along with waste water treatment ponds and acid ponds.
During the inspection, EPA saw no evidence of hurricane-associated damage to the three RCRA caps, clay cover, or monitoring wells that constituted the remedy for the site. No standing water was observed. The perimeter fencing showed no signs of damage from the hurricane.
The results of the ground water samples were compared to the results from ground water samples collected as part of a Five Year Review conducted in 2005. Although several metals, including arsenic, cadmium, and lead, were detected in these samples, the results are comparable to the concentrations found during the Five-Year Review, and do not pose a risk to human health. The ground water in the area of the site is not used for drinking water, and the Responsible Parties will continue to operate the ground water recovery system as part of the ongoing Superfund remedial action at the site.
Triangle Chemical, Orange County
On September 29, 2005, EPA collected two ground water samples at this former automotive chemical blending facility. The remedy for this site, completed in 1990, included mechanical aeration to remove volatile organic chemicals from soil at the site, and ground water monitoring.
During the inspection, EPA saw no evidence of hurricane-associated damage to the buildings, tanks, or monitoring wells. No standing water was observed around the site, and the perimeter fencing showed no signs of damage from the hurricane.
The concentrations of organic chemicals detected in the ground water samples are comparable to concentrations of organics reported in the June 2006 Superfund Five-Year Review for the site, and do not pose a risk to human health. Shallow ground water in the area is not used for drinking water, and the ground water will continue to be monitored as part of the ongoing remedy operation and maintenance activities conducted by the State of Texas.