Legal Contact: Connie Puchalski (312) 886-6719 Technical Contact: Ken Glatz (312) 886-1434 Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: December 2, 1996 No. 96-OPA269 EPA SETTLES ON METAMORA LANDFILL CLEANUP; POLLUTERS TO PAY $14.5 MILLION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) have recently arrived at a settlement with BASF Corp., Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Sea Ray Boats, and 30 other parties to recover costs for cleaning up the MetamoraLandfill, Lapeer County, MI. As part of the proposed settlement, the parties agree to pay the Government $14.5 million for costs incurred at the Superfund site through May 15, 1991. A Federal Register notice on the proposed settlement will be published in the near future, followed by a 30-day public comment period, after which EPA will review all comments. The court will have to enter and approve this decree. Some 80 to 85 potentially responsible parties contributed hazardous wastes, including industrial solvents and paints, to the Metamora Landfill between 1955 to 1980. The site, about 20 miles southeast of Lapeer, has been the focus of extensive environmental cleanup since the discovery of ground-water contamination there in 1979. ### ------------------------------------------------ Technical Contact: Steve Faryan (312) 353-9351 Media Contact: Dave Novak (312) 886-9840 For Immediate Release: December 2, 1996 No. 96-OPA270 EPA COMPLETES CLEANUP OF WESTINGHOUSE SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently completed cleanup of contaminated areas at the Westinghouse site, Union City, IN. The Superfund site was found to be contaminated with industrial wastes, including chemical drums, xylene, materials shavings, and waste oils. Westinghouse operated a manufacturing plant at the site from the early 1950's through 1986, when another company purchased the facility. Westinghouse reacquired the property in 1987 and sold the main buildings and a small parcel of land to Frank Miller Lumber in 1991. In 1993, following environmental assessments by EPA and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, the site was designated for cleanup under the Superfund Emergency Response program. Westinghouse cleaned up the site under terms of a Unilateral Administrative Order. The company excavated and removed more than 13,400 tons of contaminated soil. Excavated areas were then backfilled with clean soil and planted with new vegetation. A soil and ground-water treatment and monitoring system was also installed and will continue to operate until ground-water reaches the appropriate standards. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa270.htm Technical Contact: Robert Allen (312) 353-5871 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA271 EPA SETTLES WITH UNITED DOMINION; INCLUDES $23,658 FINE AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled a civil complaint with United Dominion Industries (Van Wert, OH) for allegedly violating Federal rules on the reporting of toxic chemicals. The company will pay a $23,658 fine and complete an environmental project costing at least $278,377. The company was cited for failing to submit on time to proper authorities the required data on several toxic chemicals being used at its facility during 1987-92. The chemicals were xylene, toluene, and glycol ethers--all classified as toxic under the law. The degree of hazard depends upon the dose, duration, and circumstance of exposure to a particular chemical. In addition to the fine, the company has agreed to use water-based paints instead of solvent-based paints, which will significantly reduce its use and release of the toxic chemicals xylene, ethylbenzene, and trimethylbenzene. United Dominion, which makes prefabricated building components, has already installed the equipment needed for water-based paints. The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act requires certain manufacturers to provide data on specific toxic chemicals being manufactured or used at their facilities. EPA uses this and other information to update its national toxic-chemical release inventory, which is available to the public through various media, including through a national computerized database. Companies make their reports annually to EPA and their State. "The public has the right to know what chemicals are released in or near their communities," said Norman Niedergang, regional director of the Waste, Pesticide, and Toxics Division. "When companies fail to report information on chemicals, EPA must take steps to bring them into compliance, to ensure that the public receives timely and accurate information." The company has certified it is now in compliance with Federal reporting requirements. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 5, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa271.htm Technical Contact: Thomas Simon (312) 353-8341 Legal Contact: John Steketee (312) 886-0558 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: December 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA272 EPA SETTLES WITH CONSUMERS POWER FOR POLLUTING SAGINAW BAY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today announced that it has reached agreement with Consumers Power Co., Essexville, MI, on alleged violations of the Clean Water Act at its Karn-Weadock facility on Saginaw Bay. The utility has agreed to pay a $28,750 fine and carry out an environmental project estimated to cost $640,000. In September 1994, EPA issued an administrative complaint to the utility for violating the terms of its wastewater discharge permit. EPA alleged that between October 1989 and June 1993, the facility had discharged excess amounts of total suspended solids, phosphorus, chlorine, selenium, and copper into Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron. In addition, EPA claimed that between February 1991 and March 1994, fish had been killed by drastic changes in water temperature in the bay because the utility did not gradually reduce its discharge of warm water. The utility has agreed to build a net barrier in the discharge canals to prevent exposure of fish to temperature changes and chlorine discharges. It has also agreed to build an oil boom and move two outfalls to better monitor its discharges. These projects must be completed by October 15, 1997. Huron that was most affected by the violations," said JoLynn Traub, director of the regional Water Division. "The net barrier will help prevent fish kills and allow local anglers to continue to fish in the warm water discharges of the plant." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 5, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa272.htm Technical Contact: Rebecca Frey (312) 886-4760 Media Contact: John Perrecone (312) 353-1149 For Immediate Release: December 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA273 EPA DOUBLES PACE OF CLEANUP AT KERR-MCGEE SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that it has doubled the previous year's pace of cleanup at the Kerr-McGee Residential Areas Superfund site (West Chicago, IL) during 1996. To date, EPA has identified more than 300 properties that are contaminated with thorium mill tailings. Ninety-three properties were cleaned up and fully restored, including landscaping, by Kerr- McGee Chemical Corp. during 1996. By way of contrast, 44 properties were cleaned up during 1995. Altogether, contamination has been removed from 137 properties. In addition, three area schools have been cleaned up: Lincoln Elementary School, West Chicago Middle School, and West Chicago Community High School. "EPA is extremely pleased with the pace of progress at the Kerr-McGee site over the past year," said Regional Superfund Director William Muno. "Right now, we're wrapping up operations for the winter months. Come spring, we expect this momentum to pick up where we left off." So far, more than 49,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil has been removed from West Chicago properties and transported to a disposal site in Utah. The cleanup process is expected to take a few more years. Since 1994, EPA has tested more than 1,200 West Chicago properties for contamination. So far, test results for about 900 of these have been forwarded to the property owners. EPA is evaluating the results on a block-by-block basis and will soon notify the remaining 300 property owners of its findings. The site is being cleaned up under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund. Kerr-McGee is doing the cleanup under EPA oversight. The Illinois Department of Nuclear Safety is helping EPA. Properties were contaminated when radioactive materials from the Kerr-McGee factory were used as fill throughout West Chicago and parts of DuPage County. The site is one of four separate Kerr- McGee Superfund sites in West Chicago. The Kerr- McGee factory operated from 1931 to 1973. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa273.htm Legal Contact: Jacqueline Kline (312) 886-7167 Technical Contact: George Halloran (312) 886-6636 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA274 EPA SETTLES WITH MONARCH OIL FOR $81,000; TANK VIOLATIONS CITED U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled an administrative complaint against Monarch Oil & Supply Co. (Portage, IN) for alleged violations of underground storage tank regulations at six facilities in northwest Indiana. The company will pay an $81,000 fine. The six facilities are: Jim's Service Station (East Chicago); Lake Tire Co. (Highland); and Monarch gas stations in Gary, Griffith, Hobart, and Lake Station. The company was cited for failing to: meet release detection, reporting, response, and corrective action requirements for underground storage tank systems containing petroleum substances and for out-of-service systems; and meetclosure and financial responsibility requirements. All facilities have been closed, and the underground storage tanks properly removed or closed, except for the Hobart facility, which is still in operation. Nationwide, there are between one and two million underground storage tanks that are used to store various substances, including fuel products and chemicals. EPA regulates these tanks under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. Leaking underground storage tanks can contaminate ground water and surface water, and expose workers to contamination while they are cleaning and repairing tanks. New rules were passed in 1988, requiring owners and operators to upgrade, close, or replace their underground storage tank systems by December 22, 1998. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa274.htm Technical Contact: David Turpin (312) 886-7836 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA275 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: LEAD-BASED-PAINT NOTIFICATION AND DISCLOSURE RULE GOES INTO FULL EFFECT The final phase of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) lead-based-paint right-to-know program becomes effective today. Under this phase of the program, real-estate agents and property owners of four or fewer residential dwellings--including single-familyhome owners--are required to provide prospective buyers and new tenants with a pamphlet containing information necessary to protect families from lead-based-paint hazards. More than 1.7 million American children under the age of 6 have unsafe blood-lead levels,making lead poisoning the number one environmental health hazard for young children. Lead from paint in poor condition, contaminated household dust from cracking, peeling paint, and lead-contaminated soil can create significant health hazards, especially to children under the age 6. Most of those children are poisoned by deteriorated leadbased paint and the contaminated soil and dust it generates. The new requirements apply to residences built before 1978, the year the sale of residential leadbased paint was banned. More than 80 percent of the nation's housing stock built before 1978, some 64 million homes, contain some lead-based paint. In addition to providing the pamphlet, real-estate agents and property owners are required to disclose to buyers or tenants any known information regarding the presence of lead-based paint and lead-based hazards in a residence. Home buyers are then given up to 10 days to conduct a lead-based-paint inspection or risk assessment at their own expense prior to finalizing a sales contract. Specific notification and disclosure language must be included in the contract or lease, along with signed statements from all parties verifying the requirements have been met. Owners and agents of more than four residential dwellings were required to use this language and provide this information starting September 6, when the first phase of this program became effective. The new program is being administered jointly by EPA and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to ensure that families receive basic lead-hazard exposure prevention information prior to purchasing or renting older housing. For a copy of the pamphlet, sample disclosure forms, or the rule, call the National Lead Information Clearinghouse at 1-800-LEAD-FYI. The EPA pamphlet and rule also are available electronically through the World Wide Web at http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa275.htm Technical Contact: Katherine Keith (312) 353-6956 Legal Contact: Louise Gross (312) 886-6844 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: December 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA276 EPA REACHES AGREEMENT WITH COMMONWEALTH EDISON U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with Commonwealth Edison Co. on alleged Clean Air Act violations at the company's Morris, IL, power plant. EPA cited Commonwealth Edison in March 1995 for exceeding Federal nitrogen oxide emission limits at five of the plant's boilers. The data came from continuous-emissions-monitoring reports from the company. Commonwealth Edison has already installed new burners on the boilers. As part of the settlement, the company has agreed to retrofit its two oilfired boilers so they can burn natural gas as well as fuel oil. Natural gas burns cleaner, and its use will cut sulfur dioxide and particulate emissions. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Nitrogen oxides can cause difficulty in breathing and weaken immunity to respiratory infections. They also contribute to production of acid rain and ground-level ozone. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa276.htm Legal Contact: James Morris (312) 886-6632 Technical Contact: Jae Lee (312) 886-3781 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA277 EPA SETTLES WITH ARISTECH FOR HAZ. WASTE VIOLATIONS; COLLECTS $229,311 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled with Aristech Chemical Corp. (Pittsburgh, PA) for alleged hazardous-waste violations at the company's Haverhill, OH, facility. The company will pay a $229,311 fine. EPA cited Aristech for failing to meet Federal requirements related to burning hazardous waste in four boilers. Specifically, EPA alleges Aristech failed to: - develop an adequate waste testing plan for its boilers; - do the required emissions testing on its boilers; - submit an accurate certificate of testing to EPA; - keep proper monitoring records of its boilers; and - maintain its established metals feed rate limit, emission standard of carcinogenic metals, and chlorine feed rate limit. In addition to the fine, the facility will install an additional hazardous waste tank system by April 30, 1997, and submit quarterly reports to EPA on its waste activities for the next 2 years. Aristech burns hazardous waste containing benzene-- a carcinogen--in its boilers. Aristech is a chemical manufacturing company which produces various chemical substances, including aniline, acetone, and alpha-methyl styrene. EPA regulates the burning of hazardous waste for purposes of energy recovery under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, which deals with the safe management and disposal of municipal and industrial solid waste, from the time of production to their final disposal. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa277.htm Technical Contact: Thelma Codina (312) 886-6219 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA278 EPA SALUTES 7 POLLUTION PREVENTION INNOVATORS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently recognized seven companies that have obtained outstanding results through innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally sound methods in reaching pollution prevention goals. The companies are: R.R. Donnelley & Sons (Mattoon, IL); Eli Lilly and Co. (Indianapolis, IN); AP Parts International, Inc.-Northern Tube (Pinconning, MI); Davis-Frost, Inc. (Minneapolis, MN); The Timken Co. (Canton, OH); Eagle Ottawa Leather Co. (Milwaukee, WI); and Northern Precision Casting (Lake Geneva, WI). All of the companies except R.R. Donnelley & Sons are participants in EPA's 33/50 program. EPA's 33/50 program--a challenge to U.S. industry to voluntarily reduce the release of 17 highpriority toxic chemicals by 33 percent by 1992 and by 50 percent by 1995--was developed as part of EPA's pollution prevention strategy. EPA Region 5 saw a 61 percent reduction by the end of 1993--a total of 163,773,541 lb toxic chemicals not released into the environment. The 33/50 participants exceeded both the 33 and the 50 percent milestones nationwide. From 1988 to 1993, the printing plant R.R. Donnelley & Sons reduced its use of the solventtoluene by 74 percent, by installing new equipment--and at the same time increasing its production levels. Eli Lily, a drug manufacturer, reduced emissions and transfers of methylene chloride by 79 percent at participating facilities. In addition, the company instituted a system to identify alternatives to toxic chemicals early in the drug development process. Northern Tube, a manufacturer of exhaust and charge air tubes for the truck industry, eliminated the use of a chlorinated solvent in cleaning operations by switching to a water-base alkaline cleaner. Davis-Frost, a paint manufacturer, reduced its hazardous wastes by 55 percent, saving $25,000 in 1992, through an employee incentive plan. The wastes included paint sludge and varnish soil sludge. The Timken Co., a manufacturer of bearings and alloy steels, now recycles 50 percent of metal dust containing lead and chromium released in its steel making operations--reducing its emissions and transfers by 79 percent in 1993. The company also eliminated the use of 1,1,1-trichloroethane and freon solvent by switching to a water-base alkaline cleaner. Eagle Ottawa Leather developed new systems and purchased new equipment to practically eliminate its use of a number of toxic chemicals, including xylene, toluene, methyl ethyl ketone and methyl isobutyl ketone. The company saved about $1,200,000 over 6 years. Northern Precision, a investment casting company, eliminated the use of 1,1,1-trichloroethane in its cleaning operations by switching to a citrus-based nonhazardous solvent. This summer EPA received a Hammer Award from Vice President Gore's National Performance Review Office for its 33/50 program. It recognizes Federal agencies for developing programs and processes that allow them to work cheaper, smarter, and better. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa278.htm Legal Contact: Jeffrey Cox (312) 353-3112 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312) 886-4062 Media Contact: Mick Hans (312) 353-5050 For Immediate Release: December 11, 1996 No. 96-OPA279 EPA SETTLES WITH COUNTRY HOME BAKERY FOR $25,000 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently signed a consent agreement and consent order with Country Home Bakery of Michigan, Inc., Highland Park, MI. The agreement includes fines totaling $25,000. The company allegedly failed to immediately report to proper authorities the release of a hazardous substance. EPA's complaint claimed that on August 9, 1993, Country Home Bakery failed to notify the National Response Center, as well as State and local authorities, of a 900 lb release of anhydrous ammonia. The company also failed to submit follow-up reports to proper State and local authorities. Country Home Bakery was further cited for failure to provide to State emergency response commission, local emergency planning committee, and local fire department the required 1991-1993 forms for storing hazardous chemicals. Anhydrous ammonia is an extremely hazardous substance used in refrigeration systems. Under Federal law, certain hazardous substance spills and releases must be immediately reported. Under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, owners and operators of facilities must also submit forms for certain hazardous chemicals to proper authorities every March. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 85 separate complaints for hazardous chemical reporting violations, resulting in 55 settlements and $3 million in total fines. Nationally, EPA has settled 458 cases resulting in $10 million in total fines. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa279.htm Media Contact: William Omohundro (312)353-8254 For Immediate Release: December 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA280 EPA TAKING COMMENTS ON PROPOSED SMOG AND SOOT REGULATIONS; DEADLINE FEB. 18 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today the public may comment on EPA's proposed smog and soot regulations via a toll-free telephone number, e-mail on the Internet, or in writing. The comment period ends February 18, 1997. The toll-free number is: 1-888-TELL-EPA (1-888-835- 5372) (Note: not 1-800). The toll-free line will receive public comments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except Christmas, New Years Day, and on Dr. King holiday. Users of the toll-free number are asked to listen to the instructions and leave a message (up to 2 minutes) which will be recorded and transcribed later for inclusion in the official docket. EPA has set up 5 e-mail boxes. The electronic addresses are: - For general comments: general.comments@epamail.epa.gov - For Ozone National Air Quality Standards only: O3naaqs.comments@epamail.epa.gov l For Particulate Matter National Ambient Air Quality Standards only: pmnaaqs.comments@epamail.epa.gov - For Interim Implementation Policy only: iip.comments@epamail.epa.gov - For Particulate Matter Monitoring Regulations only: monitors.comments@epamail.epa.gov Commenters should not include any confidential business information. Comments should be in ASCII text; encrypted e-mail messages cannot be read. Written comments should be submitted in duplicate to: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Air Docket (6102) Attn: Docket # (as identified below) Waterside Mall, 401 M Street, SW Washington, DC 20460 Please identify comments with the specific docket numbers: - Ozone NAAQS Proposal: docket number A-95-58 - Particulate Matter NAAQS Proposal: docket number A-95-54 - Interim Implementation Policy: docket number A-95-38 - Particulate Monitoring Proposal: docket number A-96-51 Comments and data will also be accepted on disks in WordPerfect 5.1 file format or ASCII file format. All comments in electronic form must also be identified by the appropriate docket number. The docket is open for public inspection and copying between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. weekdays, at the Air and Radiation Docket and Information Center (6102), Room M-1500, 401 M Street, SW., Washington, DC 20460. The docket is on the ground floor of Waterside Mall. The docket index, materials, and comments are available for review in the docket center. Or copies may be made for a reasonable fee. EPA proposed the smog and soot regulations on November 27. The action is expected to appear soon in the Federal Register, but is computeraccessible through EPA's electronic bulletin board system, the Technology Transfer Network (TTN) at http://www.epa.gov/airlinks. The TTN can be reached at 919-541-5742 (backup number for access problems is 919-541-5384). The notice will appear on the TTN's Clean Air Act Amendments Bulletin Board under "Recently Signed Rules." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 12, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa280.htm Technical Contact: Beth Reiner (312) 353-6576 Media Contact: Derrick Kimbrough (312) 886-9749 For Immediate Release: December 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA281 EPA AND STATE TO HOLD MEETING DEC. 18 ON CLEANUP OF FOREST WASTE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is sponsoring an availability session December 18, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Forest Township Hall, 130 East Main St., Otisville, MI, to follow-up on issues related to the Forest Waste Disposal Superfund site in Genessee County. EPA, Michigan Departments of Community Health and Environmental Quality, Genessee County Health Department, and Forest Waste Coordinating Committee will be available to follow up on concerns raised during the previous meeting, October 29, 1996. At the December 18 meeting, residents will be able to view historic aerial photographs of the site, provide feedback on future soil sampling locations, learn results from a survey of cancer cases in the surrounding Zip code area, and discuss the possibility of residual, leftover contamination. The Forest Waste Disposal site was a community landfill from 1972 through 1978. From about 1972 through the early 1980's, the site also housed a small airport. For more information, call Derrick Kimbrough, EPA community involvement coordinator, 1-800-621-8431; Brendan Boyle, Mich. community health, 1-800-648- 6942; or visit the site information repository at Forest Township Library. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 12, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa281.htm Technical Contact: Robert Allen (312) 353-5871 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA282 EPA SETTLES WITH BRASS FORGINGS FOR REPORTING VIOLATIONS; INCLUDES $10,000 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled a civil complaint with Brass Forgings Co. (Ferndale, MI) for alleged violations of Federal rules on the reporting of toxic chemicals. The company will pay a $10,000 fine. Brass Forgings was cited for failing to submit to EPA and the State of Michigan the required data on copper and lead--both classified as toxic under the law--being processed at its facility during 1989 and 1990. The degree of hazard depends upon the dose, duration, and circumstance of exposure to a particular chemical. The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act requires certain manufacturers to provide data on specific toxic chemicals being manufactured or used at their facilities. EPA uses this and other information to update its national toxic-chemical release inventory, which is available to the public through various media, including through a national computerized database. Companies make their reports annually to EPA and their State. "The public has the right to know what chemicals are released in or near their communities," said Norman Niedergang, regional director of the Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. "When companies fail to report information on chemicals, EPA must take steps to bring them into compliance, to ensure that the public receives timely and accurate information." The company has certified it is now in compliance with Federal reporting requirements. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 16, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa282.htm Technical Contact: Dr. Barbara Carr (312) 886-7187 Media Contact: Mick Hans (312) 353-5050 For Immediate Release: December 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA283 EPA TO SPONSOR OIL SPILL PREVENTION/COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE WORKSHOPS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will present a series of free workshops to help companies comply with oil-spill regulations. The first of 12 workshops will be held January 13, at EPA's regional office in Chicago. Two workshops will be held in each of the six regional states, January through April 1997. State environmental agencies that oversee local oil storage compliance will cohost each workshop. The workshops aim to inform companies, and other interested parties on how to prepare and carry out a Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Plan. Spill regulations were passed in 1973 and amended by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. They apply to owners or operators of non transportation facilities that drill, produce, gather, store, process, refine, transfer, distribute, or consume oil and oil products--facilities that can reasonably be expected to spill oil in U.S. waters. Failure to comply may bring fines and other penalties. Workshops will include presentations on components of a spill plan, financial and environmental impacts of oil spills, and what a facility may expect during an inspection. The general public, environmental consultants, and local agencies and regulators are also invited to attend. "These customer-oriented workshops offer practical solutions for complying with the oil-spill regulations," said Dr. Barbara Carr, EPA regional spill control coordinator. "We'll go over frequently encountered problems in an easy to understand format and explain any misconceptions." For a brochure on these workshops, call Mary Jane Adamo at 312-886-5905. For general program information, call Dr. Carr at 312-886-7187. ATTACHMENT: List of workshop dates/locations. U.S. EPA Spill Containment Workshop Dates and Locations Illinois - 1-13-97 U.S. EPA, Room 331, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL - 2-5-97 Illinois National Guard Armory, 11427 Minuteman Rd., Marion, IL Indiana - 1-22-97 Indiana Dept. Administration, Government Center South Auditorium, 402 West Washington St., Indianapolis, IN - 2-12-97 Rural Electric Membership Corp., 7810 State Road 60, Sellersburg, IN Michigan - 3-5-97 Washtenaw County Library, 4135 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor, MI l 3-26-97 Grayling Holiday Inn, 2650 South Business Loop, Grayling, MI Minnesota - 3-10-97 Minnesota Lottery, 1060 Lone Oak Rd., Eagan, MN - 4-2-97 Arrowhead Community College, Marshall School, 1309 Rice Lake Rd., Duluth, MN Ohio - 1-29-97 Ohio Fire Academy, 8895 East Main St., Reynoldsburg, OH - 2-19-97 Kent State University, Student Center, Kent, OH Wisconsin - 2-26-97 Lakeshore Technical College, 1290 North Ave., Cleveland, WI - 3-19-97 Township Fire Department, Station 2, 3300 Horlacher Ln., Eau Claire, WI ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 16, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa283.htm Legal Contact: Jeffrey Trevino (312) 886-6729 Technical Contact: Ken Zolnierczyk (312) 353-9687 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA284 EPA CITES ROYAL OAK CO. ON PCB'S; SEEKS $24,000 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued an administrative complaint against Transformer Inspection Retrofill Corp. (Royal Oak, MI) for allegedly violating Federal rules on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). EPA has proposed a $24,000 fine. After an EPA inspection, the company was cited for not properly storing and disposing of PCB items and PCB waste at its facility. It has 20 days to respond to the complaint. However, it may at any time request an informal meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and to arrive at a settlement. PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, recordkeeping, storage, and limited use of PCB's to protect the public from these potentially dangerous chemicals. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 16, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa284.htm Technical Contact: Kae Lee (312) 886-1771 Media Contact: Cheryl Allen (312) 353-6196 For Immediate Release: December 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA285 EPA TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING ON PCB STORAGE DEC. 19 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a public hearing to discuss and accept comments on the proposal to allow Drug & Laboratory Disposal, Inc., to continue the commercial storage of PCB-contaminated wastes at its Plainwell, MI, facility. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m., December 19, City Hall, Council Chamber, 141 North Main St., Plainwell. For more than 15 years, the facility has temporarily stored PCB-contaminated materials generated by others. Under the proposal, the company must operate the facility in such a way as to prevent fires, explosions, and PCB releases. All employees would have to be trained to follow these requirements. A copy of the company's application and proposed approval is available for review at the Ransom District Library, 180 South Sherwood Ave., Plainwell. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 17, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa285.htm Legal Contact: Thomas Williams (312) 886-0814 Technical Contact: Anthony Silvasi (312) 886-6878 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: December 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA286 EPA CITES NATIONAL STEEL PELLET ON PCB VIOLATIONS; PROPOSES $28,800 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued an administrative complaint against National Steel Pellet Co., Inc. (Keewatin, MN), for allegedly violating Federal rules on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). EPA has proposed a $28,800 fine. Based on an EPA inspection, National Steel Pellet was cited for not properly using, storing, and labeling its PCB's and PCB items and for failing to maintain certain required PCB records. PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, recordkeeping, storage, and limited use of PCB's to protect the public from these potentially dangerous chemicals. National Steel Pellet may at any time request an informal meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and to arrive at a settlement. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 19, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa286.htm Technical Contact: Claudia Johnson (312) 886-6108 Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release: December 19, 1996 No. 96-OPA287 EPA APPROVES ONEIDA TRIBE'S WATER QUALITY STANDARDS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today approved water quality standards written by the Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin, near Green Bay. The Oneida Tribe is the second in Region 5 to develop its own water quality standards. The Oneida Tribe is also the first government body to comply with requirements of the Great Lakes Water Quality Guidance, which establishes minimum water quality standards for protecting human health, aquatic life, and terrestrial wildlife in the Great Lakes Basin. EPA authorized the Oneida Tribe to develop water quality standards after it completed the application process specified in the Clean Water Act. To receive authorization, a Tribe must demonstrate that it has authority, similar to a State, to write and enforce environmental regulations. Before submitting final standards to EPA, the Tribe solicited and accepted written and oral comments on its proposal. The Tribe reviewed the comments and revised portions of its proposed water quality standards to address technical concerns that were raised. The Tribe's final standards are slightly more stringent than the minimum required by Federal regulations, which is acceptable. "It gives me great pleasure to approve the Oneida Tribe's water quality standards," said Jodi Traub, director of the regional Water Division. "I look forward to continuing our good working relationship with the Tribe in our mutual efforts to protect the water for us and for future generations." Deborah Doxtator, tribal chairwoman, said: "We are pleased by the EPA's recognition of tribal sovereignty in its decision to approve the Oneida Nation's water quality standards. "We look forward to working with our neighbors in Brown and Outagamie Counties, as well as the state of Wisconsin, to protect our shared water resources. "These standards provide the Oneida Nation with an opportunity to nurture the development of a seventh generation community, and to help preserve the waters of the Oneida Reservation and Northeastern Wisconsin for the enjoyment of future generations." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 19, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa287.htm Media Contacts: Don de Blasio (EPA) (519) 252-4105 Ext. 275 Eileen Foley (Environment Canada) (416) 739-4785 (519) 252-4105 Ext. 275 (after November 4) For Immediate Release: November 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA252 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA, ENVIRONMENT CANADA HOLDING 2ND STATE OF THE LAKES ECOSYSTEM CONFERENCE IN CANADA, NOVEMBER 6-8 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Great Lakes National Program Office and Environment Canada are holding the second biennial State of the Lakes Ecosystem Conference - SOLEC ‘96 - November 6-8, 1996, in Windsor, Ontario. The focus of this year's conference will be the state of the nearshore aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem with emphasis on biological health and the human activities that place stress on the system. SOLEC '96 will bring together major Great Lakes environmental experts and decision-makers from throughout North America, including Mexico, to exchange information on the state of the lakes and to influence the future of this valuable resource. The conference will feature three distinguished guest speakers: - Noon, Wednesday, November 6, David Buzzelli, vice president and corporate director of environment, health and safety, and public affairs, Dow Chemical Co. - Noon, Thursday, November 7, John Sawhill, president and CEO, The Nature Conservancy - 6 p.m., Thursday, November 7, David Crombie, chair, Waterfront Regeneration Trust SOLEC '96 will also recognize some of the exceptional achievements in Great Lakes ecosystem improvement. The Canadian Consul General in Detroit will host a reception to celebrate some of these achievements at 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 6, Cleary International Centre, 201 Riverside Drive, Windsor, Ontario. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa252.htm Technical Contact: Robert Whippo (312) 886-4759 Media Contact: Mick Hans (312) 353-5050 For Immediate Release: November 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA253 EPA: WORK TO BEGIN AT MARINA CLIFFS BARREL SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that cleanup of the Marina Cliffs Barrel Site (formerly called the Northwest Barrel Co.), will begin in Milwaukee, WI, this week. Work will include the removal of metals and organic chemicals from a pit on the eastern end of the site, analytical testing, and transportation of materials to an off-site disposal facility. This is the first step in dealing with environmental pollution on the property. Workers will wear protective clothing, including white, lightweight coveralls, rubber gloves, and rubber boots. Warning signs will be posted, and the pits have been fenced to protect the public and keep out trespassers. This phase of the work is expected to be completed within a few weeks. Site excavation and analysis are being coordinated by a contractor hired by the cooperating potentially responsible parties. EPA, with participation of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, will monitor and oversee all activities. The 13-acre site, at Fifth Ave. and Marina Rd., was used by Northwestern Barrel Co. from 1941 until 1964 to reclaim industrial drums. The company disposed of waste in on-site pits, which have been contaminated with PCB's. The contamination is not affecting any of the nearby residents. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa253.htm Legal Contact: David Mucha (312) 886-9032 Technical Contact: Tony Silvasi (312) 886-6878 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA254 EPA SETTLES WITH BENDTEC ON PCB'S; INCLUDES $1,000 FINE AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled an administrative complaint against Bendtec, Inc. (Duluth, MN) for allegedly violating Federal rules on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). The company will pay a $1,000 fine and complete an environmental project costing at least $24,890. Based on an EPA inspection, Bendtec was cited for not properly registering a PCB transformer with local fire-response authorities and for failing to maintain the required PCB records. In addition to the fine, the company has agreed to properly remove and dispose of a PCB transformer from its facility before the end of the year. The company has certified it is now in compliance with Federal PCB rules. PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, recordkeeping, storage, and limited use of PCB's to protect the public from these potentially dangerous chemicals. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa254.htm Technical Contact: Dea Zimmerman (312) 886-6344 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA255 EPA NETS $165,200 FOR PESTICIDE VIOLATIONS; FIRST ACTION OF ITS KIND UNDER PESTICIDE LAW U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled an administrative complaint against Northrup King Co. (Golden Valley, MN) for allegedly violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act--the first legal action involving a genetically engineered plant pesticide. Northrup will pay a $165,200 fine. Based on inspections made by EPA, Northrup was cited for selling and distributing an unregistered plant pesticide. Northrup also failed to file with EPA the required paperwork for importing the pesticide and has produced the pesticide at eight unregistered facilities during 1994-95. The pesticide, called Bacillus thuringiensis deltaendotoxin, is produced by a bacterially derived CryIA(b) gene in corn plants. The transgenic corn seed can produce a substance that protects the plant against the European corn borer. "EPA is committed to ensuring that pesticides produced under new technologies do not pose any environmental or health risks," said Norman Niedergang, regional director of the Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. Pesticides are used widely for agriculture and other purposes, such as to control fungi, insects, rodents, and weeds. They are also used as disinfectants and fumigants. Congress authorized EPA to ensure that pesticides do not pose unreasonable risks to the public and the environment. Under the law, all pesticides and businesses that manufacture pesticides must be registered with EPA. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa255.htm Technical Contacts: Kathy Ticho (312) 886-6865 David Beck (919) 541-5421 Richard Colyer (919) 541-5262 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: November 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA256 EPA ISSUES SPECIAL CLEAN-AIR PERMIT TO STEPAN U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that, because Stepan Co.'s Millsdale Plant (Elwood, IL) voluntarily cut regulated toxic air pollutants by 90 percent from its 1990 level, EPA has given the company a 6-year extension -- in the form of a specialty permit -- to further reduce toxic emissions. This is only the second such extension in Illinois, given under a voluntary early-reductions program for hazardous air pollutants, as authorized by the Clean Air Act of 1990. Stepan, a maker of detergents and specialty chemicals, has participated in the earlyreductions program since 1992. In 1990, the Stepan plant emitted 40,560 lb of toxic pollutants,=20 including xylenes, ethylbenzene, and 1.4 dioxane. In its April 1994 specialty permit application (3 years ahead of the legal compliance date), the company showed these toxic pollutants have been cut to 4,056 lb per year. The deadline for meeting toxic emissions requirements for the synthetic organic chemical manufacturing industry is 1997, but the Stepan plant will get an extension for any further reductions required, until 2003. EPA issued this permit after reviewing the data, contacting the company, and submitting its intent to issue the permit to the public for review. EPA said the permit will eventually be=20 absorbed into a broader permit covering other parts of the facility. "EPA and Stepan have worked together to significantly reduce toxic emissions for the protection of human health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "The early-reductions program shows how existing regulations provide for environmental protection while allowing industry appropriate flexibility." The Stepan plant, 22500 West Millsdale Rd., Elwood, is south of Joliet, in Will County. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 7, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa256.htm Technical Contact: Anthony Restaino (312) 886-6879 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: November 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA257 EPA: FEDERAL GRAND JURY INDICTS ASBESTOS TRAINER FOR FRAUD U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today a Chicago asbestos abatement trainer, Bogdan Mucha, was recently indicted by a Federal grand jury for allegedly selling fraudulent training-course certificates to an EPA undercover special agent. In June, U.S. Department of Justice filed criminal charges against Mucha, who owns and operates Midwest Institute of Asbestos, Inc., 5418 West Fullerton Ave. Asbestos is a known cancer-causing substance that can cause mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) many years after exposure. EPA classifies asbestos as a hazardous air pollutant. EPA regulations require accreditation of asbestos workers who remove, encapsulate, or do maintenance on friable (dry, crumbling) asbestos-containing materials in schools and public and commercial buildings. To be accredited, a worker must take a 4-day, 32- hour training course consisting of topics such as potential health effects of asbestos exposure, personal protective equipment, and state-of-theart work practices. A contractor or supervisor must take a 5-day, 40- hour EPA-approved course. Everyone -- workers, contractors, and supervisors -- must also take an annual 8-hour refresher course to maintain their accreditation. EPA said untrained abatement workers are very likely to endanger themselves, their coworkers, and building occupants by using unsafe work practices in handling asbestos. EPA reminds the public that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which Government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 7, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa257.htm Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312) 886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA258 EPA SETTLES WITH DOMINICK'S; INCLUDES $94,349 FINE AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled an administrative civil complaint against Dominick's Finer Foods, Inc.(Forest Park, IL), for allegedly violating Federal laws on the reporting of hazardous chemicals. The company will pay a $94,349 fine and complete an environmental project costing at least $73,252. Dominick's was cited for not reporting to proper authorities the accidental release of anhydrous ammonia from its facility. (Anhydrous ammonia is classified as a hazardous substance under the law.) In addition, the company failed to provide to proper authorities a timely follow-up report of the incident, a description of risks, and the required forms for storing the chemical during 1990-92. (Dominick's uses anhydrous ammonia in its refrigeration systems as a cooling agent.) In addition to the fine, the company has agreed to install and operate an energy-efficient lighting system at its warehouse in Northlake, IL, by October 1997. Under the Emergency Planning and Community Rightto- Know Act, owners and operators of facilities are required to provide information every March to Federal, State, and local authorities on certain chemicals defined under the law as hazardous and toxic. "Compliance with these reporting requirements is critical because local, State, and Federal authorities must have the necessary information to respond when a release occurs," said William Muno, regional director of the Superfund Division. "Public health, as well as the environment, is at stake." Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 84 separate complaints for hazardous-chemical reporting violations, resulting in 54 settlements and $2.9 million in total fines. Nationally, EPA has settled 458 cases resulting in $10 million in total fines. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 7, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa258.htm Technical Contact: Ivonne Vicente (312) 886-4449 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA259 EPA CITES 2 OHIO COMPANIES, PROPOSES $408,701 IN FINES U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed separate civil administrative orders against Perstorp Polyols, Inc. (Toledo, OH), and Shell Chemical Co. (Belpre, OH), for alleged hazardous-waste violations at the companies' facilities. EPA has proposed a $232,701 fine for Perstorp and a $176,000 fine for Shell. EPA cited both companies for failing to meet Federal requirements related = to burning hazardous waste in a boiler or industrial furnace. EPA alleges Perstorp failed to: - do the required emissions testing on its boiler; - submit the required certificate of testing to EPA; and - keep proper monitoring records of its boiler. Perstorp was burning hazardous waste containing benzene--a carcinogen--in its boiler. EPA has ordered the facility to stop until a Federal operating permit is issued. In addition, the company must submit a closure plan for the boiler. EPA alleges Shell Chemical failed to: - monitor its equipment for air emission leaks in a timely manner; - monitor or record the flow rate of coal; and - maintain its established minimum electrostatic precipitator power, flue gas flow-rate limit, combustion temperature, steam production rate, carbon monoxide standard, flue gas temperature, total feed rate in total feed stream, and total chlorine feed rate. Shell was burning liquid hazardous waste made up of several different source streams, including solvents and lubricant oils in two boilers. EPA regulates the burning of hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, which deals with the safe management and disposal of municipal and industrial solid waste, from the time of production to their final disposal. Both companies may at any time request an informal meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and to arrive at a settlement. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 7, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa259.htm Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA260 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA RECEIVES HAMMER AWARD NOV. 8 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) pesticide program will receive a National Performance Review "Hammer" Award from Vice President Al Gore's office for reinventing its pesticide approval process. EPA will receive the award at a 10:30 a.m. ceremony, Friday, November 8, at NYCO Products Co., 3021 West 36th St., Chicago. NYCO President Robert Stahurski will host the event at the company's pesticide production facility, and describe how EPA's efforts have benefited registrants and small businesses like NYCO. Lisa Mallory, National Performance Review, will present the award to Lynn Goldman, EPA's Assistant Administrator of the Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. The National Performance Review principles include: putting customers first, cutting red tape, empowering employees, and getting back to basics. The pesticide program is being recognized for its success in simplifying the process of registering pesticide products in several ways, including significantly reducing the review time for many types of products -- saving time and resources for the government as well as for companies seeking to get their products to market. Pesticides are widely used for agricultural and other purposes, such as controlling fungi, insects, rodents, and weeds. Congress authorized EPA to ensure that pesticides do not pose unreasonable risks to the public and the environment. Under the law, all pesticides and businesses that manufacture pesticides must be registered with EPA. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 7, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa260.htm Technical Contact: Robert Whippo (312) 886-4759 Media Contact: Susan Pastor (312) 353-1325 For Immediate Release:November 13, 1996 No. 96-OPA261 EPA SEEKS COMMENTS ON MADISON METRO CLEANUP PLAN; PUBLIC MEETING NOV. 19 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is seeking public comments on a proposed cleanup plan for dealing with sludge contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) at the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District Superfund site, Blooming Grove, WI. EPA is recommending constructing a dike to isolate PCB concentrations at or above 50 parts per million. Lagoon areas not already covered by natural vegetation would then be covered with soil and seeded. The cleanup plan also includes monitoring and maintenance activities and future deed restrictions. Estimated cost of the cleanup plan is $1.8 million. Based on information to date, this action will protect human health and the environment. A fact sheet about the proposed plan is available from Region 5's World Wide Web site at http://www.epa.gov/Region5/sitefact.htm. Written comments on the proposed plan will be accepted from November 18 through December 18, 1996. They should be sent to Susan Pastor, P-19J, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Oral and written comments may also be submitted at a 7 p.m. public meeting Tuesday, November 19, 1996, at the Madison Municipal Building, 215 Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd., Madison. "Public input is an essential part of EPA's decision-making process," said Regional Administrator Valdas V. Adamkus. "The Region hopes it will receive comments from throughout the Madison Metro site area." After the comment period, EPA will sign a final decision document outlining the selected cleanup plan. The document will also include responses to public comments. Copies of the cleanup plan and other site-related documents are available for review at the Madison Public Library, 201 West Mifflin Street, Madison, and the Madison Metropolitan Sewage District, 1610 Moorland Road, Madison. An administrative record file, which contains the information upon which the selection of the cleanup plan will be based, has been established at the Madison Public Library. PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people. The Madison Metro site was added to EPA's National Priorities List (NPL) in 1990, which names abandoned or hazardous waste sites across the country. The lagoons at the site were constructed in the 1940's and 1960's to provide storage for sewage sludge generated at the adjacent Madison Metro treatment plant. More than 300 of the 1,300 hazardous waste sites on the NPL have been found to contain PCB's. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 14, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa261.htm Technical Contact: Cynthia Curtis (312) 353-6959 Legal Contact: Mary McAuliffe (312) 886-6237 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: November 13, 1996 No. 96-OPA262 EPA CITES MARATHON FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Marathon Oil Co. for alleged violations of State air pollution regulations at its Robinson, IL, oil refinery. Marathon was cited for exceeding particulate matter (dust, smoke, ash) and visible emission limits. An August 5, 1996, stack test showed particulate emissions exceeded the allowable limit. Visible emission readings taken during the stack test also violated the limit. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act, is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against Marathon. The company has 30 days from the date it receives the notice to request a meeting. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." The Marathon refinery in Robinson received a notice for particulate and visible emission violations in March 1994 and a notice for carbon monoxide emissions violations in April 1995. In March 1996, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Marathon on behalf of EPA for these violations. In September 1996, the refinery was notified that it had violated the Clean Air Act by failing to install benzene emission control equipment. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 14, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa262.htm Technical Contact: Phillip King (312) 353-9062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA263 EPA GIVES PARTIAL OK TO MINN. ASBESTOS TRAINING PROGRAM ACCREDITATION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently granted partial approval to Minnesota's asbestos training program accreditation, under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This approval gives the Minnesota Department of Health the authority to: - accredit persons to perform certain types of asbestos-related work in schools and public and commercial buildings; - conduct training that satisfies the requirements for accreditation; and - approve training-course providers to conduct training and accredit persons. EPA is granting partial approval to Minnesota for three of the five training disciplines: inspector, management planner, and project designer. EPA will work with the State to ensure full approval of its program. "EPA is pleased with Minnesota's asbestos training and accreditation program and looks forward to working with them throughout its implementation," said Norman Niedergang, director of the regional Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. In 1986, Congress enacted the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, which created a regulatory program to deal with asbestos hazards in schools. Under the act, the Asbestos Model Accreditation Plan prescribed mandatory training and accreditation of persons who do certain types of asbestos work in schools. In February 1994, the revised plan required each State to upgrade its programs. Among the changes were expanded accreditation coverage to include public and commercial buildings and an increase in the minimum number of training hours. EPA Region 5 has now given full or partial approval to five of the six states it covers: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin-- and is helping Ohio to get an approval. Asbestos, a known cancer-causing substance, is harmful when inhaled. It may cause asbestosis (a lung disease) and mesothelioma (a type of chest cancer) 10 to 40 years after exposure. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa263.htm Technical Contact: Ed Hanlon (312) 353-9228 Media Contact: Ginny Narsete (312) 886-4359 For Immediate Release: November 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA264 EPA SEEKS COMMENTS ON FIELDS BROOK CLEANUP; MEETING NOV. 21 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is seeking public comments on a proposed cleanup plan for dealing with contamination in the floodplain and wetland areas of the Fields Brook Superfund site, Ashtabula, OH. A public meeting will be held November 21. Fields Brook flows through an industrialized area of Ashtabula that includes several chemical companies and waste disposal sites. The contamination comes from PCB's, HCB, and other toxicants discharged by industry. EPA is considering seven cleanup alternatives and one no-action option. All seven alternatives involve fencing and deed restrictions, erosion control, and revegetation of excavated areas. They also include long-term monitoring and chemical sampling. EPA recommends placing a 6-inch soil cover over low-level contamination in residential areas and excavating, with on-site disposal, of contaminated soil in other areas. Cost: $6.9 million. This option would provide the most protection to human health and the environment, plus long-term effectiveness at the lowest overall cost. A fact sheet on alternatives is available from Region 5's World Wide Web site at http://www.epa.gov/Region5/sitefact.htm. It will also be available at the meeting. Oral and written comments may be submitted at a 7 p.m. public meeting Thursday, November 21, 1996, at the Kent State-Ashtabula Campus, Blue and Gold Room, 3325 West 13th St., Ashtabula. Written comments will also be accepted November 13 - December 13, 1996. They should be sent to Ginny Narsete, P-19J, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. After the comment period, EPA will sign a final decision document outlining the selected cleanup plan, which will also include responses to public comments. Copies of the cleanup plan and other site-related documents are available for review at Ashtabula County District Library, 335 West 44th St., Ashtabula. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa264.htm Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312)886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA265 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA TO RECOGNIZE WASTEWISE PARTNERS NOV. 20 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will recognize 28 Illinois WasteWise partners for significantly reducing their solid-waste stream since 1994. The event will begin 9 a.m., Wednesday, November 20, at EPA, 12th-floor Lake Huron Room, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago. Deputy Regional Administrator Michelle Jordan will present certificates to the Illinois WasteWise partners at 11 a.m. EPA launched its WasteWise in January 1994 as a voluntary partnership program designed to help businesses find practical methods for reducing municipal solid waste. WasteWise partners commit to implementing comprehensive solid-waste reduction programs encompassing three areas: pollution prevention, recycling, and buying or making recycled products. Benefits of membership include technical assistance on waste reduction, publications, and workshops. More than 500 companies nationwide now participate in the program, one-third being Fortune 500 companies. The Illinois companies being honored are: Accord Environmental, Abbott Laboratories, Andrew Corp., Baxter International, Cole-Palmer Instrument Co., Commonwealth Edison Co., DuPage Clean and Beautiful, Helene Curtis Industries, Illinois Power Co., L.R. Nelson Corp., McDonald's, Motorola, Nalco Chemical Co., National Waste Services, Navistar International Transportation Corp., Patrick Engineering, Radio Flyer, Randolph County Progress Committee, R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co., Safety-Kleen Corp., Sage Products, Inc., Searle & Co., State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co., Stone Container, The Dial Corp., United Scrap Metal, VANEX, and WMX Technologies. For more information on EPA's WasteWise program, contact Joanne Oxley, (703) 308-0199. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa265.htm Legal Contact: Sean Mulroney (312) 886-7150 Technical Contact: Johnathan Adenuga (312) 886-7954 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312)886-1303 For Immediate Release: November 25, 1996 No. 96-OPA266 EPA ISSUES ORDER TO SHELL OIL TO PROTECT MIGRATORY BIRDS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently ordered Shell Oil Co. to implement emergency measures at its Roxana, IL, facility to protect migratory birds from oil waste found on the property. The facility sits along the Mississippi River and is in an important migratory flyway for many species of birds each spring and fall. Based on an inspection at the Shell Wood River Refining Co. in Roxana, two inactive outdoor areas on the refinery were found to be contaminated with layers of oil wastes and sludge material, exposing migratory birds--such as pied-billed grebes (on Illinois' Threatened Species List), mourning doves, and eastern phoebes--to the oily substances. Under the order, the company took immediate measures to stop the exposure of migratory birds, including clearing the two areas and placing barriers to deter birds from landing on the areas. EPA has met with Shell to discuss the source of the oily substances and a plan to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat at the refinery in the future. Additional meetings are planned. Shell is a petroleum refinery which processes crude oil. EPA took this action under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, which regulates the safe handling, transportation, storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous wastes. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 25, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa266.htm Technical Contact: David Werbach (312) 886-4242 Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release: November 22, 1996 No. 96-OPA267 EPA: COPPER RANGE TO SUBMIT PERMIT APPLICATION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that it will accept a permit application from Copper Range Co. for full-scale solution mining at its White Pine, MI, site. The company, which has EPA approval for a pilot project on solution mining, will submit to EPA a permit application for full-scale operation. EPA feels this provides all parties more certainty aboutthe process to be followed. EPA will review the application and at the same time do an environmental analysis for issues not addressed in the review of the individual permit application. Both processes allow for public comment before final decisions. The review of an application for an individual permit will also allow EPA to evaluate the need for any necessary project-specific conditions. The company suspended pilot-scale operations at the site in October, saying it did not know what to expect from EPA. However, EPA's pilot-scale project approval remains in effect. "Copper Range's decision to submit a permit application makes clear what regulatory process is expected for the full-scale project, and this should remove any uncertainty," said Jo Lynn Traub, director of the regional Water Division. EPA intends to propose a decision on the permit application and complete a draft environmental analysis report by July 1997. EPA will hold public hearings, during which oral and written comments will be accepted. The EPA permit decision is separate from a permit issued in May 1996 by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, allowing full-scale solution mining. If an EPA permit is denied, Copper Range will not be allowed to engage in a full-scale solution-mining project. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 25, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa267.htm Technical Contact: Steve Padovani (312) 353-6755 Media Contact: Ginny Narsete (312) 886-4359 For Immediate Release: November 26, 1996 No. 96-OPA268 EPA TO PRESENT FINDINGS ON BREEN AVE. METHANE GAS RELEASE; MEETING DEC. 4 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will present findings of its investigation into the source of methane gas releases along Breen Avenue in Kingsford, MI. A 7 p.m. public meeting will be held December 4, 1996, in the Kingsford High School Auditorium. In July 1995, a methane explosion occurred at a home on Breen Ave. In response, EPA designed and installed a gas control system in the area to eliminate immediate threats to human health. The source of the methane release has yet to be conclusively determined. However, EPA will discuss its findings to date at the meeting. Representatives of the U.S. Geological Survey will also be available to answer questions. A fact sheet on the Breen Ave. investigation is available from Region 5's World Wide Web site at http://www.epa.gov/Region5/sitefact.htm. It will also be available at the meeting. Detailed information about the Breen Ave. investigation is available for review at Dickinson County Library, Iron Mountain. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: December 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa268.htm Media Contacts: Heidi Valetkevitch (EPA) (312) 886-1303 Ken Davis (DOE) (312) 744-5716 For Immediate Release: October 2, 1996 No. 96-OPA200 EPA AWARDS CHICAGO $350,000 TO HELP FIGHT "FLY DUMPING" U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently awarded the City of Chicago $350,000 to help launch a pilot project to prevent illegal dumping. It will include training for police and city officials, surveillance, and a public outreach and education program. Illegal dumping of trash often containing tires, concrete, asphalt, and lawn clippings, or "fly dumping," is a major solid-waste problem in many urban areas. The City of Chicago, not EPA, has jurisdiction over illegal dumping and has had a progressive enforcement program for several years. "EPA recognizes the important environmental benefits of sound solid-waste management," said Deputy Regional Administrator Michelle D. Jordan. "This grant will help to improve the health and safety of people throughout the city--particularly those who live near illegal dumping areas." The grant will be used for: l providing additional training to Chicago's Department of Environment and police staff in environmental crime prevention, enforcement tactics, surveillance programs, and - conducting a targeted surveillance and enforcement pilot program within certain areas of the city facing a high rate of illegal dumping; - developing and implementing a multilingual public outreach and education campaign in areas where illegal dumping problems persist; and - developing a computerized information management system to track all construction and demolition activities in the city. "Snuffing out fly dumping is one of our highest priorities," explained Chicago Environment Commissioner Henry L. Henderson. "Over the years, we've prevented or cleaned thousands of small dumps before they victimized nearby communities. We're very happy with this new partnership." Under the Federal grant process, recipients contribute at least 5 percent of the total cost of the project. The City of Chicago last year established a hotline for reporting illegal dumping: 312-744- 5000. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa200.htm Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 1, 1996 No. 96-OPA207 EPA AWARDS GRANTS TO THREE BROWNFIELDS PROJECTS IN MIDWEST U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that it has awarded three new grants to redevelop idle, contaminated urban properties, commonly known as Brownfields. The grants will go to Cincinnati, OH; Kalamazoo, MI; and the Downriver Area Brownfields consortium -- which comprises several Michigan cities in suburban Detroit. Each of the pilot projects will receive up to $100,000, except the Downriver Area Brownfields Consortium, which will receive $75,000. These projects are being funded as part of EPA's Brownfields Economic Redevelopment Initiative -- a national model for revitalizing urban communities. EPA expects to be able to fund each grant up to $200,000 during this fiscal year. Cincinnati plans to transform a 500-acre site in Mill Creek Valley -- the former site of a scrap metal recycling business -- into several produce distribution facilities. Kalamazoo has about 450 acres of Brownfields sites that make up 5 percent of the city's taxable property. The city plans to use the grant money for community involvement activities, selecting three to five priority sites for assessments and redevelopment plans. The Downriver Area Brownfields Consortium plans to pool resources and use its grant for encouraging developers to buy up to 700 acres of Brownfields sites. Brownfields are abandoned or underused contaminated industrial or commercial properties. Developers often hesitate to buy these properties because of potential cleanup liability. Brownfields projects yield economic benefits and protect the environment by encouraging development on existing sites, rather than extending urban sprawl to undeveloped areas. "These projects are examples of using common-sense and cost-effective ways to return urban properties to productive use," said Deputy Regional Administrator Michelle D. Jordan. "The goal of EPA's Brownfields initiative is to turn blighted urban wastelands into desirable property." Other Brownfields pilot cities in this region are: Detroit, MI; Indianapolis, IN; Cleveland, OH; West Central Municipal Conference, a regional group of 36 municipalities in Cook County, IL; Gary, East Chicago, and Hammond, IN; Lima, OH; Kinross Township, MI; and East St. Louis, Alorton, and Centerville, IL. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 1, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa207.htm Technical Contacts: Mary Pat Tyson (312) 886-3006 David Werbach (312) 886-4242 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 2, 1996 No. 96-OPA208 EPA CONFIRMS SAFETY OF RAIL TRANSPORTATION OF ACID TO COPPER RANGE MINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today announced that it has confirmed with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) that the railroad tracks running through the Bad River Reservation (located in northern Wisconsin) meet Federal specifications for the transportation of sulfuric acid to the Copper Range Co.'s chemical mining project at its mine near White Pine, MI. The company is doing a pilot solution-mining project under a State permit and Federal authorization. It is injecting sulfuric acid into parts of the mine to chemically extract copper. The rails, which run through the Bad River Reservation and tribal ceded territories (located throughout northern Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan), are expected to be used to transport acid to the Michigan mine. EPA has been coordinating efforts with Wisconsin Central Railroad and FRA to address public-health and environmental concerns related to the railroad transportation of acid. These concerns were raised at several public meetings EPA held last week to gather information for the environmental analysis. Wisconsin Central has appropriately addressed EPA concerns about its acid transportation contingency plan in the event of an emergency--a concern also expressed at the meetings. EPA is continuing to study the potential impacts on air, water, and land, as well as other issues, which may result from the proposed full-scale mining project in the area. "Now that EPA has addressed transportation safety issues through the Bad River Reservation, it will expand its review to include the ceded territories and other communities and tribes along the track," said Jo-Lynn Traub, director of the regional Water Division. EPA will also expand its review to include truck transportation of acid, currently underway through the Bad River Reservation and tribal ceded territories. EPA is planning an additional public meeting in the near future (an announcement will follow once arrangements have been made). In response to the public's request, Wisconsin Central has agreed to be present at that meeting. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 3, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa208.htm Technical Contact: Howard Caine (312) 353-9685 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA209 EPA CITES UNO-VEN FOR AIR POLLUTION; SEEKS $193,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against UNO-VEN Co. for Clean Air Act violations at the company's Lemont, IL, oil refinery. EPA has proposed a $193,000 penalty. The complaint alleges that UNO-VEN exceeded legal limits for particulates (smoke, ash, dust) at its facility, 135th and New Ave. EPA notified UNO-VEN of the violations in March. Since then, in response to EPA's notices, the company has installed new equipment and rebuilt its particulate control system -- all of which EPA considered in assessing the penalty. Breathing high concentrations of particulates can worsen the condition of people with heart and lung disease. Children, the elderly, and asthmatics are the most susceptible. UNO-VEN has 20 days from receipt of the complaint to request a formal hearing. It may ask for an informal conference with EPA anytime to attempt to reach an agreement on the penalty. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 3, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa209.htm Media Contact: Suzanne Saric (312) 353-3209 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA210 EPA AWARDS $23,704 FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN ILLINOIS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently awarded a total of $23,704 to five schools and nonprofit organizations to support innovative environmental education in Illinois. This is the fifth year that awards are being made under EPA's environmental education grants program, after a competitive solicitation. "It is with great pleasure that I extend EPA's support to these organizations in Illinois for environmental education programs," said Acting Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. "Environmental education is essential to ensure that the next generation will protect the environment in the years ahead." This year in Illinois, EPA funds will support school-wide environmental programs, workshops for formal and nonformal educators, and training for health-care providers on the reduction of asthma among low-income minority groups (see attached fact sheet). EPA is awarding these funds under the 1990 National Environmental Education Act, which gives EPA the authority to support and create environmental education programs nationwide. EPA Region 5 has awarded more than $850,000 in educational grants to academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and tribes in the Midwest during the past 5 years. This year, some 225 applicants competed for funds. Altogether, EPA is awarding $150,000 to 23 recipients in the Midwest Region. Most of the awards are for grassroots programs costing $5,000 or less, as required by law. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa210.htm Media Contact: Suzanne Saric (312) 353-3209 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA211 EPA AWARDS $9,500 FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN INDIANA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently awarded a total of $9,500 to a nonprofit organization and a school to support innovative environmental education in Indiana. This is the fifth year that awards are being made under EPA's environmental education grants program, after a competitive solicitation. "It is with great pleasure that I extend EPA's support to these organizations in Indiana for environmental education programs," said Acting Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. "Environmental education is essential to ensure that the next generation will protect the environment in the years ahead." This year in Indiana, EPA funds will support an interdisciplinary environmental education program for teachers and students, also a teacher education program focused on the thematic delivery of environmental issues (see attached fact sheet). EPA is awarding these funds under the 1990 National Environmental Education Act, which gives EPA the authority to support and create environmental education programs nationwide. EPA Region 5 has awarded more than $850,000 in educational grants to academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and tribes in the Midwest during the past 5 years. This year, some 225 applicants competed for funds. Altogether, EPA is awarding $150,000 to 23 recipients in the Midwest Region. Most of the awards are for grassroots programs costing $5,000 or less, as required by law. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa211.htm Media Contact: Suzanne Saric (312) 353-3209 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA212 EPA AWARDS $31,450 FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN MICHIGAN U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently awarded a total of $31,450 to nonprofit organizations, intermediate school districts, a school, and a university to support innovative environmental education in Michigan. This is the fifth year that awards are being made under EPA's environmental education grants program, after a competitive solicitation. "It is with great pleasure that I extend EPA's support to these organizations in Michigan for environmental education programs," said Acting Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. "Environmental education is essential to ensure that the next generation will protect the environment in the years ahead." This year in Michigan, EPA funds will support teacher education, community training, student action projects, environmental negotiation seminars, and a natural-resource residential camp for African-American, Native-American, and Pacific Islands students (see attached fact sheet). The environmental negotiation seminars will be held on Detroit's east side and will teach participants how to negotiate the redevelopment of Brownfields, or abandoned and under-used industrial sites in the city. EPA is awarding these funds under the 1990 National Environmental Education Act, which gives EPA the authority to support and create environmental education programs nationwide. EPA Region 5 has awarded more than $850,000 in educational grants to academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and tribes in the Midwest during the past 5 years. This year, some 225 applicants competed for funds. Altogether, EPA is awarding $150,000 to 23 recipients in the Midwest Region. Most of the awards are for grassroots programs costing $5,000 or less, as required by law. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa212.htm Media Contact: Suzanne Saric (312) 353-3209 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA213 EPA AWARDS $14,820 FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN MINNESOTA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently awarded a total of $14,820 to two nonprofit organizations and a school to support innovative environmental education in Minnesota. This is the fifth year that awards are being made under EPA's environmental education grants program, after a competitive solicitation. "It is with great pleasure that I extend EPA's support to these organizations in Minnesota for environmental education programs," said Acting Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. "Environmental education is essential to ensure that the next generation will protect the environment in the years ahead." This year in Minnesota, EPA funds will support professional development opportunities for teachers (see attached fact sheet). Teacher workshops will focus on habitat and water quality issues. EPA is awarding these funds under the 1990 National Environmental Education Act, which gives EPA the authority to support and create environmental education programs nationwide. EPA Region 5 has awarded more than $850,000 in educational grants to academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and tribes in the Midwest during the past 5 years. This year, some 225 applicants competed for funds. Altogether, EPA is awarding $150,000 to 23 recipients in the Midwest Region. Most of the awards are for grassroots programs costing $5,000 or less, as required by law. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa213.htm Media Contact: Suzanne Saric (312) 353-3209 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA214 EPA AWARDS $38,265 FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN OHIO U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently awarded a total of $38,265 to two nonprofit organizations and two universities to support innovative environmental education in Ohio. This is the fifth year that awards are being made under EPA's environmental education grants program, after a competitive solicitation. "It is with great pleasure that I extend EPA's support to these organizations in Ohio for environmental education programs," said Acting Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. "Environmental education is essential to ensure that the next generation will protect the environment in the years ahead." This year in Ohio, EPA funds will support professional development opportunities for teachers, an environmental justice workshop, a school nature project, and a new pollution prevention course for engineering students (see attached fact sheet). The engineering course will present a realistic case study about a small urban company and will teach students how to design a waste remediation plan for the company. EPA is awarding these funds under the 1990 National Environmental Education Act, which gives EPA the authority to support and create environmental education programs nationwide. EPA Region 5 has awarded more than $850,000 in educational grants to academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and tribes in the Midwest during the past 5 years. This year, some 225 applicants competed for funds. Altogether, EPA is awarding $150,000 to 23 recipients in the Midwest Region. Most of the awards are for grassroots programs costing $5,000 or less, as required by law. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa214.htm Media Contact: Suzanne Saric (312) 353-3209 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA215 EPA AWARDS $32,261 FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN WISCONSIN U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently awarded a total of $32,261 to a museum, a tribal school, and the Milwaukee School of Engineering to support innovative environmental education in Wisconsin. This is the fifth year that awards are being made under EPA's environmental education grants program, after a competitive solicitation. "It is with great pleasure that I extend EPA's support to these organizations in Wisconsin for environmental education programs," said Acting Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. "Environmental education is essential to ensure that the next generation will protect the environment in the years ahead." This year in Wisconsin, EPA funds will support a program for disadvantaged students, professional development opportunities for teachers, and a project to integrate Native American culture into existing watershed curriculum (see attached fact sheet). EPA is awarding these funds under the 1990 National Environmental Education Act, which gives EPA the authority to support and create environmental education programs nationwide. EPA Region 5 has awarded more than $850,000 in educational grants to academic institutions, nonprofit groups, and tribes in the Midwest during the past 5 years. This year, some 225 applicants competed for funds. Altogether, EPA is awarding $150,000 to 23 recipients in the Midwest Region. Most of the awards are for grassroots programs costing $5,000 or less, as required by law. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa215.htm Technical Contact: Denny Dart (312) 886-1426 Legal Contact: Mary McAuliffe (312) 886-6237 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 7, 1996 No. 96-OPA216 EPA CITES AUSTEEL LEMONT FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently notified Austeel Lemont Co., Inc., of alleged violations of Federal and State air pollution regulations at its Lemont, IL, plant. Austeel makes steel rebar (used to reinforce concrete) for the construction industry and rounds which can be custom molded to make a variety of products. The rebar and rounds are made from scrap metal recyled on site. The company was notified that it exceeded limitations on visible emissions and that it failed to do required testing and monitoring. Austeel operates two electric arc furnaces that emit particulates (ash, smoke, dust). Particulates not caught by the control system escape into the atmosphere through roof vents. EPA and State officials made six inspections from January through July 1996. They found that visible emissions from Austeel's roof vents exceeded the limits for opacity (the amount of light obscured) each time. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive. Also, particulates can carry toxic substances, stain buildings, and cut visibility. The two notifications, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, are a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against Austeel. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Austeel has 30 days from receipt of the notifications to request a meeting with EPA and discuss the allegations. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa216.htm Technical Contact: Rosita Clarke (312) 886-7251 Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: October 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA217 EPA CHANGES CANNELTON INDUSTRIES CLEANUP PLAN U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently changed the cleanup plan for the Cannelton Industries Superfund site (Sault Ste. Marie, MI), because of changes in the State of Michigan's cleanup standards and new information obtained from pre-design studies at the site. The revised cleanup plan calls for the removal and disposal of a reduced amount of contaminated soil, sediment, and tannery waste from the site. This reduction eliminates the need for the construction of an on-site landfill. The plan now allows the site to be developed for a combination of industrial, residential, and recreational uses. The estimated cost of the revised plan is $5.5 million. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality also supports this decision. The revised plan and other site-related documents are available for review at the Bayliss Public Library, 541 Library Dr., Sault Ste. Marie. The site is on the National Priorities List, which names hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund, currently up for reauthorization by Congress. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa217.htm Technical Contact: Janet Haff (312) 353-7923 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA218 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA AND STATE TO HOLD TIRE CLEANUP DAYS IN EAST ST. LOUIS AREA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency are sponsoring 3 free collection days for the public to recycle old tires in the East St. Louis, IL, area. The tire amnesty days are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., October 15 through 17. The main collection site is at 20th St. and Ridge Ave., East St. Louis. Other collection sites on October 15 are at: 55th St. and Independence Ave., Washington Park; 49th St. and George, Centreville; and 500 North 20th St., East St. Louis. Other collection sites on October 16 are at: Cahokia Park, Route 157 (just west of I- 255), Cahokia; and 1314 Klein Ave., Venice. Participants must sign an agreement that they commit not to accumulate tires on their property in the future. The tires will be shredded and used to make alternative fuel. Assistance will be provided by local governments: the cities of Alorton, Centreville, East St. Louis, Madison and Venice; the villages of Brooklyn, Cahokia, Fairmont City, Sauget and Washington Park; and community groups, including East St. Louis Community Action Network, Neighbors United for Progress, and Operation New Spirit. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa218.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 Environmental Justice Contacts: Karla Johnson (312) 886-5993 Margaret Millard (312) 353-1440 For Immediate Release: October 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA219 EPA AWARDS ENV. JUSTICE GRANT TO MICHIGAN CITY GROUP U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), through its Environmental Justice Small Grants program, has awarded $18,750 to the Minority Health Coalition of LaPorte County, Michigan City, IN. The group will create a clearinghouse for information on the environment, environmental justice, and health. It will also train local health care workers on environmental contaminants and health effects, educate the community on Superfund, test children for lead exposure, and produce information materials on several environmental health risks. This year, EPA has awarded $3 million in environmental justice grants nationwide to community organizations, academic institutions, and tribal, State, and local governments. The program is designed to encourage community-based projects that address pollution prevention, sustainable development, and environmental protection. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa219.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 Environmental Justice Contacts: Karla Johnson (312) 886-5993 Margaret Millard (312) 353-1440 For Immediate Release: October 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA220 EPA AWARDS GRANTS FOR ILL. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE PROJECTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), through its Environmental Justice Small Grants program, has awarded more than $78,000 in grants for environmental justice projects in Illinois. The Westside Health Authority, Chicago, received $20,000 to develop community-based strategies to reduce serious illnesses, like asthma and lead poisoning, that are associated with environmental problems. United Citizens and Neigbors, Urbana, received $18,500 to develop a partnership between residents, city officials, and hospital officials to deal with local medical waste incineration problems. The Joseph E. Gary local school council in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago received $20,000 to inventory environmental hazards in the school and its grounds, develop an environmental justice educational course, and develop an information program in Spanish and English on environmental issues. The Westside Alliance for a Safe Toxic-Free Environment (WASTE) on Chicago's Northwest Side received $20,000 to do a feasibility study on a recycling alternative to solid waste incineration to reduce waste and create jobs. The grantee will also reach out to the community and produce information materials on environmental health and environmental justice. This year, EPA awarded $3 million in environmental justice grants nationwide to community organizations, academic institutions, and tribal, State, and local governments. The program is designed to encourage community-based projects that address pollution prevention, sustainable development, and environmental protection. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa220.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 Environmental Justice Contacts: Karla Johnson (312) 886-5993 Margaret Millard (312) 353-1440 For Immediate Release: October 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA221 EPA AWARDS GRANTS FOR MICH. ENV. JUSTICE PROJECTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), through its Environmental Justice Small Grants program, has awarded more than $58,000 in grants for environmental justice projects in Michigan. The Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) in Dearborn received $20,000 to design and carry out a culturally appropriate information campaign to the Arab-American community in southeast Michigan, to reduce health problems caused by industrial pollution. Planned activities include a quarterly bilingual newsletter, public meetings, information on Arablanguage television and radio, a community health fair, and a conference for health care providers and community leaders. Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice in Detroit received $18,293 to form local environmental justice committees and increase community awareness on urban environmental issues. These efforts will include publishing a newsletter, holding a leadership summit, and building community partnerships in urban revitalization efforts. Clean Sites, Chicago, received $20,000 to develop a series of workshops on environmental regulations and issues for Downriver Citizens for a Safe Environment and Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision. The workshops will help citizens communicate effectively with government agencies and give them the tools and information to become more involved in environmental issues. This year, EPA awarded $3 million in environmental justice grants nationwide to community organizations, academic institutions, and tribal, state, and local governments. The program is designed to encourage community-based projects that address pollution prevention, sustainable development, and environmental protection. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa221.htm Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA222 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA TO COSPONSOR CONFERENCE ON MERCURY OCT. 22-23 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and the Electric Power Research Institute will sponsor a conference on mercury, October 22-23, Allerton Hotel, 701 North Michigan Ave., Chicago. The conference, aimed at public health and environmental science professionals, will include discussions on the potential health impacts of mercury, mercury risk communication by public health officials, how to reduce mercury contamination, and how to manage mercury waste. Reducing mercury pollution is one of EPA's top priorities. Mercury pollution is the main reason for fish consumption advisories in the upper Midwest. Sources of mercury include degassing of the earth's crust and the combustion of waste and fossil fuels. The liquid metal is found in industrial processes and in many commercial products like thermostats and electrical switches. The workshop is free, but reservations by October 15 are required. For registration information, call Jeanette Collins at EPA, 312-886-0152. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa222.htm Technical Contact: James Bell (312) 886-6436 Media Contact: Noemi Emeric (312) 886-0995 For Immediate Release: October 8, 1996 No. 96-OPA223 EPA SELECTS CLEANUP PLAN FOR YEOMAN CREEK LANDFILL U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently signed a record of decision, which outlines a cleanup plan for the Yeoman Creek Landfill Superfund site, Waukegan, IL. The plan calls for containing the landfill's contaminated soils and sediments with a barrier layer, collecting and treating landfill gases, and a long-term monitoring system, including sampling of ground water, surface water, creek sediments, and leachate. "This cleanup plan is consistent with past remedies for addressing risks posed by old municipal landfills," said Regional Superfund Director William Muno. "Relying on our experiences at similar landfill sites to solve today's problems helps to save time and money." The cleanup will take about 3 years and cost about $26 million. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency also supports this decision. A copy of the plan and other site-related documents are available for review at the Waukegan Public Library, 128 North County St., Waukegan. An administrative record, containing all information upon which the cleanup decision was based, is also available at the library. The 60-acre site consists of two municipal landfills, which operated in the late 1950's through the 1960's. In 1989, the site was added to the National Priorities List, which names hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund. Superfund is currently up for reauthorization by Congress. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa223.htm Technical Contact: Cynthia Curtis (312) 353-6959 Legal Contact: Mary McAuliffe (312) 886-6237 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 8, 1996 No. 96-OPA224 EPA CITES SIGECO CULLEY STATION FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Co. for alleged violation of State air pollution regulations at its Culley Station in Newburgh, IN. One of the station's three boilers exceeded emissions limits for particulates (smoke, ash, dust) by 99.8 percent during an October 1995 stack The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violation. To resolve the violation, EPA can issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the company. The company has 30 days from the date it receives the notice to request a meeting. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa224.htm Technical Contact: Howard Caine (312) 353-9685 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA225 EPA CITES QUANTUM CHEMICAL FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Quantum Chemical Corp., USI Division, for alleged violations of Federal and State air pollution regulations at its Tuscola, IL, specialty chemical plant. In May 1995, EPA and Illinois EPA inspectors documented particulate emissions (smoke, ash, dust) that were twice the allowable limit at one boiler. In June 1995, Illinois EPA inspectors documented smoke emissions triple the allowable limit from the same boiler. None of the plant boilers was equipped with monitors for smoke opacity (the amount of light obscured) as required by Federal regulations. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the company. The company has 30 days from the date it receives the notice to request a meeting. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa226.htm Legal Contact: Mike Anastasio (312) 886-7951 Technical Contact: Terence Bonace (312) 886-3387 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA226 EPA SETTLES WITH ITOCHU FOR TSCA VIOLATIONS; INCLUDES $24,000 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled a civil complaint against ITOCHU International, Inc. (Cleveland, OH), for violating part of a consent order under the Toxic Substances Control Act. The company will pay a $24,000 fine. The consent order includes labeling requirements for the distribution of potassium hexatitanate fiber--a possible carcinogen. During an inspection of the company's Bannockburn, IL, facility, EPA found that ITOCHU had distributed the chemical without labels or any literature that would warn users of the chemical's potential human or environmental hazards. Under Federal law, EPA can prohibit or limit the manufacture, processing, distribution, use, and disposal of chemicals that pose a potential risk to human health or the environment. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa226.htm Technical Contact: Kathy Keith (312) 353-6956 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA227 EPA CITES MARATHON REFINERY FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a finding of violation to Marathon Oil Co., Inc., for allegedly failing to install required equipment to control benzene emissions at its Robinson, IL, oil refinery. An EPA inspection in February 1994 found that Marathon had not installed benzene control and treatment devices required by law to control benzene emissions from the refinery's waste operations. The treatment devices should have been installed by April 7, 1993. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violation. To resolve the violation, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the company. The company has 30 days from the date it receives the notice to request a meeting. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Benzene is known to cause cancer. Long-term exposure to benzene may cause blood and bone marrow diseases, leukemia, and chromosome changes. Short-term exposure can cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, and loss of consciousness. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa227.htm Technical Contact: Kathy Ticho (312) 886-6865 Legal Contact: Roger Grimes (312) 886-6569 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA228 EPA CITES CLARK REFINERY FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently notified Clark Refining and Marketing, Inc., of alleged violations of the Clean Air Act at its Blue Island, IL, oil refinery. The notice alleges that Clark failed to comply with regulations intended to minimize the release of benzene and other volatile organic compounds into the air from its refinery just south of Chicago. The notification is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the matter, EPA can issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the company. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Clark has 30 days from receipt of the notice to request a meeting with EPA. Volatile organics combine in the air with other chemicals to form ground-level ozone (smog). The refinery is in a community that suffers from ground-level ozone, unable to meet national health-based standards. Ground-level ozone can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, asthma, eye irritation, stuffy nose, reduced resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed up aging of lung tissue. Benzene, in addition to being a volatile organic compound, is a known cancer-causing agent. Scientific studies have implicated long-term exposure to benzene with blood and bone marrow diseases, chromosome changes, and leukemia. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa228.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 Environmental Justice Contacts: Karla Johnson (312) 886-5993 Margaret Millard (312) 353-1440 For Immediate Release: October 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA229 EPA AWARDS GRANTS FOR OHIO ENV. JUSTICE PROJECTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), through its Environmental Justice Small Grants Program, has awarded nearly $60,000 in grants for environmental justice projects in Ohio. Wood, Sandusky, Ottawa, and Seneca (WSOS) Community Action Commission in Fremont received $20,000 to identify and rank environmental problems in its area and develop and carry out a community action plan to deal with them. Working In Neighborhoods, Inc., in Cincinnati received $20,000 to work with government, industry, and community leaders on environmental justice issues like landfills, air pollution, pollution prevention, and the effect of hazardous waste facilities. The group will help investigate three potential Superfund sites, involve the community in developing a comprehensive emergency response and evacuation plan, encourage local industry to adopt pollution prevention plans, and train community leaders in environmental issues. The Cuyahoga County Planning Commission in Cleveland received $19,722 to develop a communitybased environmental audit, to give the community access to information on commercial, industrial, and residential properties. The commission will also develop an information packet for community organizations on urban environmental issues, health risks, redevelopment, legislation, and disclosure requirements. EPA awarded $3 million in environmental justice grants nationwide to community organizations, academic institutions, and tribal, State, and local governments. The program is designed to encourage community-based projects that deal with pollution prevention, sustainable development, and environmental protection. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa229.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 Environmental Justice Contacts: Karla Johnson (312) 886-5993 Margaret Millard (312) 353-1440 For Immediate Release: October 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA230 EPA AWARDS GRANTS FOR MINN. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE PROJECTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), though its Environmental Justice Small Grants Program, has awarded more than $47,000 in grants to three Minneapolis organizations for environmental justice projects in Minnesota. The Clean Water Fund received $20,000 to support the establishment and initial operation of a safety training and education project for migrant farmworkers. The project will be aimed at seasonal, migrant Hispanic, farmworkers as well as year-round residents of the Red River Valley. Citizens for a Better Environment received $7,500 to work with neighborhood residents, local businesses, and public officials to develop a plan to restore the Bassett Creek watershed in Minneapolis. The Green Institute received $20,000 to work with residents in the Phillips neighborhood of Minneapolis to revitalize the area through economic development and environmentally sound practices. The project will involve residents in environmental analysis and soil cleanup, provide environmental job training, and recruit businesses to an eco-industrial park. EPA awarded $3 million in environmental justice grants nationwide to community organizations, academic institutions, and tribal, State, and local governments. The program is designed to encourage community pollution prevention, sustainable development, and environmental protection projects. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa230.htm Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 Technical Contact: Stephen Padovani (312) 353-6755 For Immediate Release: October 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA233 EPA CHANGES CLEANUP PLAN FOR STURGIS WELL SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has changed the cleanup plan for the Sturgis Well Field Superfund site, Sturgis, MI. The changes reflect current State and Federal regulations on cleanup standards for soil and ground water and changes in soil contamination levels. The cleanup will now include vapor extraction of soils contaminated with volatile organic compounds to meet State standards, extraction and treatment of ground water to Federal standards, discharge of treated ground water to surface water or a wastewater treatment plant, and a 30-year groundwater monitoring program to meet State standards at the Kirsch property. Also, soils contaminated with low levels of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds at the Wade Electric property will not be treated. These changes are described in a record of decision of September 10, 1996. This document, and others related to the Sturgis Well Field site, are available for review at the Sturgis Public Library, 130 North Nottawa. For more information, call Bri Bill, EPA Community Relations Coordinator, 800-621-8431 or 312-353-6646. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa233.htm Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release: October 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA234 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA TO HOLD COPPER RANGE MEETING AT WHITE PINE, MI, OCT. 21 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold an informal community meeting to discuss the environmental analysis and other issues related to the Copper Range Co. solutionmining project. The meeting will be 6 to 9 p.m. ET, Monday, October 21, at White Pine High School, 10 Cedar St., White Pine, MI. Several EPA personnel will be available to answer questions about the project. EPA will prepare an environmental analysis on the proposed solution-mining project. This meeting is one part of a series that EPA will be holding during the course of the environmental analysis process allowing the public an opportunity to comment on and to get answers about the project. Written comments on the project will be accepted at the meeting, or they may be sent to: David Werbach U.S.EPA Region 5 (WU-17J) 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 For information, call David Werbach, 312-886-4242, or Don de Blasio, 312-886-4360. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa234.htm Technical Contact: Brent Marable (312) 886-6812 Legal Contact: Jane Woolums (312) 886-6720 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 11, 1996 No. 96-OPA235 EPA CITES KUKLA PRESS FOR AIR POLLUTION; INCLUDES $70,448 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against Kukla Press, Inc., for Clean Air Act violations at its Elk Grove Village, IL, printing plant. EPA has proposed a $70,448 penalty. At its facility, Kukla does commercial printing, including catalogs and brochures. The company built and operated printing presses at its plant before getting State construction and operating permits. It failed to do tests showing that it complied with lithographic printing press rules. And it did not keep records required for such presses. The Kukla plant emits volatile organic compounds that combine in the air with other chemicals to form ground-level ozone. The plant is in a community that suffers from ground-level ozone, unable to meet national health-based standards. Ground-level ozone can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, asthma, eye irritation, stuffy nose, reduced resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed up aging of lung tissue. Kukla has 20 days from receipt of the complaint to request a formal hearing. It may ask for an informal conference anytime to attempt to reach an agreement. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa235.htm Technical Contact: Ryan Bahr (312) 353-4366 Legal Contact: Louise Gross (312) 886-6844 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 11, 1996 No. 96-OPA236 EPA: 4 INDIANA COUNTIES NOW MEET HEALTH-BASED SULFUR DIOXIDE STANDARD U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today congratulated the citizens of four Indiana counties for meeting the national health-based standard for the air pollutant sulfur dioxide: LaPorte, Marion, Vigo, and Wayne counties. "The State of Indiana and these four counties have taken very important steps to improve the air quality for their citizens," said Acting Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. "This is a significant accomplishment and we congratulate them." Ullrich today signed the rulemaking document redesignating the four counties as being in attainment for sulfur dioxide. Included were maintenance plans to assure continued attainment through 2007. Data show the four counties have not had a monitored violation of the sulfur dioxide air quality standard for several years. The healthbased standards for sulfur dioxide are an annual average concentration of .03 parts per million (ppm) and a 24-hr average of .14 ppm. The 24-hr standard cannot be exceeded more than once per year. Exposure to sulfur dioxide can impair breathing, aggravate existing respiratory diseases like bronchitis, and reduce the ability of the lungs to clear foreign particles. People with chronic lung and heart disease, the elderly, and children are most sensitive. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa236.htm Technical Contact: Howard Caine (312) 353-9685 Legal Contact: Jane Woolums (312) 886-6720 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 15, 1996 No. 96-OPA237 EPA CITES HOOSIER CALCIUM FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Hoosier Calcium Corp. for alleged violations of State air pollution regulations at its Stinesville, IN, limestone crushing plant. The company operated a screen house and a crusher without baghouses to collect particulates (dust). And they exceeded particulate emissions limits as measured by opacity (the amount of light obscured) during EPA inspections in April, May, and July 1995 and in July 1996. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act, is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the company. The company has 30 days from the date it receives the notice to request a meeting. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa237.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 Environmental Justice Contacts: Karla Johnson (312) 886-5993 Margaret Millard (312) 353-1440 For Immediate Release: October 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA238 EPA AWARDS GRANTS FOR WISC. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE PROJECTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), through its Environmental Justice Small Grants Program, has awarded $40,000 in grants to environmental justice projects in Wisconsin. The Sixteenth Street Community Health Center in Milwaukee received $20,000 to establish a Brownfields community action team in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, community representatives, and real estate, lending, and economic professionals. The team's purpose will be to monitor the cleanup of two former industrial properties. The project will also include public education and a campaign to ensure that neighborhood residents participate in selecting cleanup options and in choosing appropriate redevelopment plans. The Menominee Tribe received $20,000 to study the cultural, economic and environmental effects of mining on the Menominee reservation. The study will research data on mining and its impacts on Native American communities, identify and estimate the potential damage to the environment from hardrock, metallic sulfide mining, and identify tribal traditions and occupations that depend on the environment. EPA awarded $3 million in environmental justice grants nationwide to community organizations, academic institutions, and tribal, State, andlocal governments. The program is designed to encourage community-based projects that deal with pollution prevention, sustainable development, and environmental protection. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa238.htm Technical Contact: Matthew Ohl (312) 886-4442 Media Contact: Cheryl Allen (312) 353-6196 For Immediate Release:October 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA239 EPA SEEKS COMMENTS ON PROPOSED CLEANUP PLAN AT OXYCHEM FACILITY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is seeking comments from the public on a proposed cleanup plan for the Occidental Chemical Corp. facility, Kenton, OH. The proposed plan calls for the removal and offsite disposal of soils contaminated with chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The plan includes instituting deed restrictions and security measures for the facility. Public comments will be accepted through November 29, 1996. Written comments must be postmarked no later than November 29 and sent to: Matthew Ohl (DRE-8J) Project Coordinator U.S. EPA Region 5 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 Comments may also be sent by fax at (312) 353-4788 or through e-mail to: ohl.matthew@epamail.epa.gov. EPA may hold a public hearing if there is significant public interest on the plan. After the comment period, EPA will issue a document outlining the selected cleanup plan including responses to all public comments received. The public can review the proposed plan at the Kenton Public Library, 325 East Columbus St., Kenton. This corrective action is being taken under the Resource, Conservation, and Recovery Act, which requires owners and operators of facilities to clean up contamination resulting from present and past practices. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa239.htm Technical Contact: David Werbach (312) 886-4242 Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release: October 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA240 EPA STANDS PAT ON COMMUNITY MEETING, WILL DO ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS FOR COPPER RANGE MINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today said that it is committed to holding its informal community meeting at White Pine, MI, and to carrying out an environmental analysis of the proposed Copper Range Co. solution-mining project. The community meeting will be 6 to 9 p.m., ET, Monday, October 21, at White Pine High School, 10 Cedar St., White Pine. EPA has been receiving calls on whether the community meeting would be held after Copper Range announced that it is suspending the pilot phase of its solution mining project. Jodi Traub, director of the regional Water Division, said EPA stands by its promise to meet with residents of White Pine. EPA also intends to continue the environmental analysis of the proposed full-scale project. Despite concerns expressed by Copper Range and the State of Michigan, both parties said they are willing to work with EPA on the environmental analysis process. The process will also involve Federal and State agencies, tribal governments, environmental groups, and interested residents of Michigan and Wisconsin. The decision to suspend the project was announced by the company October 14. EPA has not made any changes since announcing on August 6 that it would do an environmental analysis as part of its duties as an independent regulatory agency. EPA authorization for the company to carry out the pilot phase of the project is still in effect, under Safe Drinking Water Act provisions. A permit issued under independent State authorities remains in effect for the pilot phase and the full-scale solution mining operations. Although information generated by the pilot project would be helpful, it is not critical for EPA to make a determination on the full-scale project. The pilot project primarily is a tool for the company to evaluate the economic feasibility of full-scale solution mining. EPA does not plan to duplicate Michigan Department of Environmental Quality efforts. But there are primary and secondary impacts beyond what the State investigated that EPA must examine before it can make a decision on the full-scale solution mining project, she pointed out. A meeting with the company, Michigan and Wisconsin State agencies, tribes, and other stakeholders to examine the extent of the environmental analysis is scheduled for mid-to-late November. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa240.htm Technical Contact: Tom Williams (312) 886-6157 Media Contact: Susan Pastor (312) 353-1325 For Immediate Release: October 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA241 EPA TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE AT OCONOMOWOC SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), is sponsoring an open house from 2 to 6 p.m., October 30, at the Oconomowoc Electroplating Superfund site, 2572 West Oak St., Town of Ashippun, WI. EPA, WDNR, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers representatives will be available to guide visitors through the ground-water treatment building as well as the restored wetlands behind the site. Casual attire is recommended. For more information, call Susan Pastor, EPA community involvement coordinator, 312-353-1325 or 800-621-8431. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa241.htm Technical Contact: Tony Martig (312) 353-2291 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 18,1996 No. 96-OPA242 EPA SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENTS ON PCB PERMIT TRANSFER TO PPM U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is considering transferring Trans-End Technology's Federal permits to store and dispose of PCB's to PPM, Inc. of Georgia. EPA is accepting public comments on this proposal through November 20, 1996. Trans-End plans to sell its Ashtabula, OH, facility to PPM, a Laidlaw Environmental Services company based in Columbia, SC. Trans-End's storage permit, approved in 1990, allows the company to commercially store PCB waste. Its disposal permit, approved in 1989, allows Trans-End to disassemble certain equipment containing PCB's (such as transformers and capacitors), decontaminate the reclaimable metal components, and send the recycled metal components to smelters for disposal. Information on the transfer is available for review at the Ashtabula County District Library, 335 West 44th St., Ashtabula. EPA may hold a public hearing if there is significant public interest on the proposal. Comments on the proposal and requests for a public hearing, postmarked by November 20, may be sent to: Tony Martig Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division (DRT-14J) U.S. EPA Region 5 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and cause health hazards for people. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa242.htm Legal Contact: Robert Guenther (312) 886-0566 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312) 886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA243 EPA CITES PEPSI-COLA FOR REPORTING VIOLATIONS; PROPOSES $67,500 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against Pepsi-Cola General Bottlers, Inc. (Rolling Meadows, IL), for failure to report on time the data on storage of hazardous chemicals. EPA proposed a $67,500 fine. During a routine inspection at Pepsi-Cola's Milwaukee, WI, facility, the complaint alleges, EPA discovered that Pepsi-Cola failed to provide the Wisconsin emergency response commission, Milwaukee County emergency planning committee, and the local fire department the required 1995 forms for storing hazardous chemicals. These chemicals included diesel fuel and unleaded gasoline. Diesel fuel and unleaded gasoline are used in the company's vehicles. The fuels pose potential health risks because of their explosive qualities. Under the Emergency Planning and Community Rightto- Know Act, owners and operators of facilities must submit forms for certain hazardous chemicals to the proper authorities every March. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 84 separate complaints for hazardous-chemical reporting violations, resulting in 54 settlements and $2.9 million in total fines. Nationally, EPA has settled 458 cases resulting in $10 million in total fines. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa243.htm Technical Contact: John Love (312) 886-4360 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 22, 1996 No. 96-OPA244 EPA SETTLES WITH METRA ON PCB'S; COLLECTS $6,800 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled an administrative complaint against Northern Illinois Regional Commuter Railroad (Chicago, IL), which does business as Metra. The company will pay a $6,800 fine. EPA alleged that the company did not develop and maintain adequate PCB records for equipment at its Harvey, IL, facility. EPA also alleged that Metra failed to do quarterly inspections, as required by Federal law. There was no danger to Metra riders from these alleged violations, EPA said. PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, recordkeeping, storage, and limited use of PCB's to protect the public from these dangerous chemicals. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa244.htm Legal Contact: Deidre Flannery Tanaka (312) 886-6730 Technical Contact: Tony Silvasi (312) 886-6878 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA245 EPA CITES MCLOUTH FOR PCB VIOLATIONS; SEEKS $183,000 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against McLouth Steel Products Corp. (Trenton, MI) for allegedly violating Federal rules regulating polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). The company was cited for not properly initiating cleanup, disposal, labeling, and records maintenance of its PCB's and PCB items. McLouth no longer owns the Trenton facility. McLouth may at any time request an informal meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and to arrive at a settlement. PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, recordkeeping, storage, and limited use of PCB's to protect the public from these dangerous chemicals. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa245.htm Technical Contact: Linda Hamsing (312) 886-6810 Legal Contact: Janice Loughlin (312) 353-3440 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: October 22, 1996 No. 96-OPA246 EPA CITES 2 COMPANIES FOR ASBESTOS VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against American National Can Co. and Zapata Envases S.A. de C.V. (Mexico) for violating Federal hazardous air pollution standards for asbestos at American National's Hammond, IN, plant. EPA seeks a $61,042 penalty from American National and a $35,000 penalty from Zapata. The complaint alleges that Zapata removed asbestos from ovens it dismantled at the plant and that Zapata and American National failed to keep the asbestos wet until the material was collected and disposed of. In addition, they did not dispose of the asbestos properly and timely, nor did they give proper notice of the removal. The Hammond Department of Environmental Management discovered the violations while inspecting the plant in March 1994. Dry, easily crumbled (friable) asbestos is a known cancer-causing agent, which can lead to mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) many years after exposure. The companies have 30 days from receipt of the complaint to file an answer and to request a formal hearing. In addition, they may ask for an informal conference with EPA anytime to attempt to reach agreements on penalties. EPA's action was taken under authority of the Clean Air Act. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa246.htm Technical Contact: Dion Novak (312) 886-4737 Media Contact: Dave Novak (312) 886-9840 For Immediate Release: October 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA247 EPA SELECTS CLEANUP PLANS FOR REILLY TAR & CHEMICAL SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently selected cleanup plans for two portions of the Reilly Tar & Chemical Superfund site, Indianapolis, IN. The site consists of five major contaminated areas. This action deals with two of the five areas: the area contaminated with wastes from past wood preserving operations (called Operable Unit 3) and the area with contaminated soil from chemical production (called Operable Unit 4). The plan for Operable Unit 3 calls for containing the waste by installing a cover over the waste. The plan for Operable Unit 4 calls for treating some of the contaminated soil through vapor extraction and installing a concrete cover over the rest of the contaminated soil. Site-related documents are available for review at the Indianapolis Public Library, 48 East St. Claire, Indianapolis. An administrative record, containing all information upon which the cleanup decisions were based, is also available at the library. From about 1921 to 1972, Reilly Tar operated a coal tar refinery and creosote wood treatment facility on the 120-acre site. Since 1953, the company has been manufacturing synthetic pyridine bases and derivatives at the site. The site is on the National Priorities List, which names hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund. Superfund is currently up for reauthorization by Congress. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa247.htm Technical Contact: Karen Sikora (312) 886-1843 Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: October 28, 1996 No. 96-OPA248 EPA SEEKS COMMENTS ON ROTO-FINISH CLEANUP PLAN; PUBLIC HEARING NOV. 13 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a public meeting to discuss and hear comments on the proposed cleanup plan for the Roto- Finish Superfund site, Portage, MI. The meeting will be held November 13, at 7 p.m., City Hall Council Chambers, 7900 South Westnedge Ave., Portage. EPA is seeking public comments through November 23, 1996. EPA evaluated five alternatives for dealing with ground-water contamination at the Roto-Finish site, and it recommends letting the ground water naturally degrade and dilute itself of toxins (called natural attenuation). A ground-water monitoring program will also be established. However, if the monitoring shows that natural attenuation is no longer protective, EPA proposes to use a contingency remedy, such as hydraulic containment and on-site pumping, until cleanup levels are achieved. Written comments on the plan, postmarked by November 23, 1996, should be sent to: Bri Bill, Office of Public Affairs (P-19J), U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Comments may also sent through e-mail to: bill.briana@epamail.epa.gov. Based on new information, EPA may modify its recommendation. After the public comment period, EPA will issue a document outlining the selected plan. The document will also include responses to public comments. Copies of the plan andother site-related documents are available for review at the Portage Public Library, 300 Library Lane. The 7-acre site is an inactive manufacturing facility at 3700 East Milham Rd. The site is on the National Priorities List, which names hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund. Superfund is currently up for reauthorizartion by Congress. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 30, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa248.htm Legal Contact: Andrew Warren (312) 353-5485 Technical Contact: Kendall Moore (312) 353-1147 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 29, 1996 No. 96-OPA249 EPA CITES MCDONNELL DOUGLAS ON PCB'S; SEEKS $113,000 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against McDonnell Douglas Aerospace (Huntington Beach, CA) for allegedly violating Federal rules on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). EPA has proposed a $113,000 fine. Based on an inspection made by EPA at the company's Air Force Plant No. 85 (Columbus, OH), McDonnell was cited for not properly storing and labeling its PCB's and PCB items, and for failing to maintain the required records. McDonnell may at any time request an informal meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and to arrive at a settlement. PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and present health hazards for people. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, recordkeeping, storage, and limited use of PCB's to protect the public from these potentially dangerous chemicals. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 30, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa249.htm Legal Contact: Timothy Chapman (312) 886-6829 Technical Contact: Dea Zimmerman (312) 886-6344 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: October 29, 1996 No. 96-OPA250 EPA CITES CHEMPACE FOR PESTICIDE VIOLATIONS; SEEKS $200,000 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against Chempace Corp. (Toledo, OH) for allegedly violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. EPA has proposed a $200,000 penalty. Based on inspections made by the Ohio Department of Agriculture, EPA cited Chempace for continuing to distribute and sell three pesticides after canceling their registration with EPA. The unregistered pesticides are: GLY, TRIGGER, and UNIROOTER. The company was also cited for distributing and selling three misbranded pesticides. The misbranded pesticides are: COMPLETE, ERADICATE, and UNI-QUAT 14. In addition, the company was cited for producing the pesticides at an unregistrated facility. Chempace also manufacturers cleaning chemicals, solvents, and degreasers. The company has 20 days to respond to the complaint and request a formal hearing. It may at any time request an informal meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and to arrive at a settlement. Pesticides are used widely for agriculture and other purposes, such as to control fungi,insects, rodents, and weeds. They are also used as disinfectants and fumigants. Congress authorized EPA to ensure that pesticides do not pose unreasonable risks to the public and the environment. Under the law, all pesticides and businesses that manufacture pesticides must be registered with EPA. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 30, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa250.htm Technical Contact: Kae Lee (312) 886-1771 Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: October 31, 1996 No. 96-OPA251 EPA PROPOSES TO ALLOW PCB STORAGE AT COMMODORE TECHNOLOGIES; SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is considering whether to allow Commodore Technologies, Inc., to commercially store PCBcontaminated wastes at its Marengo, OH, facility. EPA is accepting public comments on this proposal through November 16, 1996. Commodore has a Federal permit to dispose of PCB wastes at that facility, which EPA's headquarters in Washington, DC, approved last March. A Federal storage permit would allow the company to commercially store PCB-contaminated wastes generated by others. Under the proposal, the company must operate the facility in such a way as to prevent fires, explosions, and PCB releases. All employees would have to be trained to follow these requirements. Information on the draft storage permit and the disposal permit is available for review at the Mount Gilead Public Library, 35 East High St., Mount Gilead, OH. EPA may hold a public hearing if there is significant public interest. Comments and requests for a public hearing, postmarked by November 16, may be sent to: Kae Lee Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division (DRT-14J) U.S. EPA Region 5 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 PCB's are a group of toxic chemicals, once used widely in industry as coolants and lubricants. EPA banned the manufacture of PCB's in 1979 because of evidence that they accumulate in the environment and cause health hazards for people. Under the Toxic Substances Control Act, EPA regulates the proper cleanup, disposal, marking, recordkeeping, storage, and limited use of PCB's to protect the public from these potentially dangerous chemicals. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: November 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa251.htm Technical Contacts: Verneta Simon (312) 886-3601 Fred Micke (312) 886-5123 Legal Contact: Nancy-Ellen Zusman (312) 886-5825 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA182 EPA: WORK TO BEGIN AT LINDSAY SITE SEPTEMBER 9 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that drilling for soil samples is scheduled to begin Monday morning, September 9, at the Lindsay Light II site, a parking lot at 316 East Illinois St., Chicago. The purpose of the sampling is to outline the nature and extent of radiation contamination found in an earlier study, completed this year. The work is being done under an EPA unilateral administrative order issued in June to the responsible parties: Chicago Dock and Canal Trust, owners and operators of the site, and Kerr-McGee Chemical Corp., corporate successors of the Lindsay Light Co., which operated the site at the time of contamination. The parking lot was once the site of a building leased by Lindsay Light Co., which used thorium to make mantles for gas lamps. Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive element that is mined as ore and refined for use. Soil sampling will take about 6 weeks. During the drilling, only a small part of the lot will be closed. But the entire lot will be closed during excavation, which will begin soon after the sampling ends. The excavated soil will be placed in closed containers and shipped by train to a radioactive waste storage facility in Utah. Surface tests at the parking lot show radioactive contamination at certain spots above background levels. A person would have to spend 30 minutes per day for 250 days (one work year) on one of these spots to get an exposure equal to one chest x-ray. ### ------------------------------------------------ (NOTE TO EDITORS: EPA officials will hold an availability session for the news media at ll a.m. Monday, September 9, at the parking lot.) Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa183.htm Technical Contact: Farro Assadi (312) 886-1424 Legal Contact: Richard Nagle (312) 353-8222 Media Contact: Bill Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release:September 9,1996 No. 96-OPA183 EPA CITES WYANDOTTE POWER PLANT FOR AIR POLLUTION The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued notices of violation to Wyandotte Municipal Power Plant (Wyandotte, MI) for alleged violations of Federal and State air pollution regulations. EPA data show that two of Wyandotte's boilers has exceeded State and Federal emissions limits for particulates (ash, smoke, and dust) in 1995 and 1996. The notices, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against Wyandotte. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa183.htm Technical Contact: Ken Glatz (312) 886-1434 Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: September 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA184 EPA CHANGES METAMORA LANDFILL CLEANUP PLAN U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently changed the cleanup plan for a portion of the Metamora Landfill Superfund site, Metamora, MI. EPA's original plan, which was approved in 1986, called for incineration of contaminated soils from Drum Area 1. Under the revised plan, the remaining contaminated soils in Drum Area 1 and the Soil Staging Area will be moved to the south side of the landfill, where they will be capped as part of the final site cleanup. The estimated cost of the revised plan is about $380,000. A copy of the revised cleanup plan including the response to comments received during the comment period, and other site-related documents can be found at: Metamora Branch, Lapeer Library 4024 Oak St. Metamora, MI Marguerite deAngeil Branch Library 921 West Nepessing St. Lapeer, MI ### ------------------------------------------------ (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa184.htm Technical Contact: Leah Evison (312)886-4696 Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312)886-9859 For Immediate Release: September 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA185 OPEN HOUSE AT KYSOR-NORTHERNAIRE SUPERFUND SITE SEPT. 19 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) will hold an open house for the public to view the recently completed ground-water treatment plant at the Kysor-Northernaire Superfund site, Cadillac, MI. The open house will be from 3 to 7 p.m., September 19, at 8th Avenue and 6th Street, Cadillac. EPA and MDEQ encourage the public to tour the inside of the ground-water treatment building and see one of 18 extraction wells nearby. The treatment plant will clean the ground water, using two air strippers and a carbon absorption system. Treated water will be tested to ensure that it meets Michigan's discharge requirements before being discharged into nearby Clam River. The treatment plant will pump about 1,600 gallons of ground water per minute. The estimated cost of the facility is $2.6 million. Dress is casual with appropriate footwear since it may be muddy. Refreshments will be served. The site is on EPA's National Priorities List, which names hazardous waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund, currently up for reauthorization by Congress. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa185.htm Technical Contact: Gurcharn S. Jhaj (312) 886-6815 Legal Contact: Janice S. Loughlin (312) 353-3440 Media Contact: Bill Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA186 EPA CITES REDMOND CONSTRUCTION,CONCRETE STRUCTURES FOR ASBESTOS VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Redmond Construction Co., Inc. (Waukesha), and Concrete Structures, Inc. (Janesville), for alleged violations of the national emission standards for asbestos. EPA said the two Wisconsin companies did not provide a written notice of intent to demolish with respect to a demolition operation in October 1994 at the Used But Nice building, West Milwaukee and Court Streets, Janesville, and did not remove all regulated asbestos-containing material prior to demolition. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the facility. Asbestos, a know cancer-causing substance, is harmful when inhaled. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa186.htm Technical Contact: Catherine Collins (312) 353-4389 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 11, 1996 No. 96-OPA187 EPA CITES 3 ST. PAUL COMPANIES FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued notices of violation to three St. Paul, MN, companies for alleged violations of federally enforceable State air pollution regulations. The companies are Great Lakes Coal and Dock Co., 1031 Childs Rd.; Ashbach Construction Co., 299 Olmstead; and LaFarge Corp., 2145 Childs Rd. All three companies were cited for failure to submit annual emissions reports for particulates (ash, smoke, and dust). The companies are in an area that has failed to attain national air quality standards for particulates, and all three have been identified as contributing to the problem. Great Lakes Coal and Dock Co. operates a barge terminal on the Mississippi River, where it receives, stores, transfers, and ships bulk commodites, including coal, coke, boiler slag, and steel. Ashbach Construction Co., a highway construction contractor, operates a hot-mix asphalt plant. LaFarge Corp. imports bulk finish cement for resale to the trade industry. It off-loads cement from river barges to its facility, then transports the cement by truck to customers. The notices, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the companies. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa187.htm Technical Contact: Larry Schmitt (312) 353-6565 Media Contact: Ginny Narsete (312) 886-4359 For Immediate Release: September 11, 1996 No. 96-OPA188 EPA, OEPA TO HOLD MEETING ON CLEANUP OF VANDALE JUNKYARD, SEP. 19 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Ohio EPA (OEPA) will hold an informal meeting on September 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Washington County Public Library, 615 Fifth St., Marietta, OH, to answer questions on the cleanup of the Vandale Junkyard Superfund site in Washington County. The site occupies 31 acres about 1.5 miles northeast of Marietta. It has been a permitted junkyard since the 1960's, and a large number of drums containing industrial wastes were disposed of at the site. The contents were either emptied on the ground or burned. Some drums were bulldozed on the north slope of the site. Starting in October, stockpiled wastes will be removed from the site and disposed of at EPA and OEPA-approved facilities. Beginning in spring 1997, the site will be capped to hold any remaining contaminants, as well as fenced, maintained, and monitored. The cleanup will be supervised by EPA and carried out by six parties whose waste is believed to have been disposed at the site. Information about the site and the cleanup plan is available for review at the Washington County Public Library. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa188.htm Legal Contact: Sandra Otaka (312) 886-7151 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312) 886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: September 12,1996 No. 96-OPA189 EPA SETTLES WITH CHERRY MEAT PACKERS FOR $20,000 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled with Cherry Meat Packers, Inc., Chicago, IL. The company was cited for not reporting to the proper authorities data on the storage of a hazardous chemical. The company will pay a $20,000 fine. Cherry Meat Packers allegedly failed to provide to the State emergency response commission, and the local emergency planning committee the required forms to store anhydrous ammonia for calendar years 1988-94. Under the Emergency Planning and Community Rightto- Know Act, owners and operators of facilities must submit forms for certain hazardous chemicals to the proper authorities every March. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 81 separate complaints for violations of hazardous-chemical reporting requirements, resulting in 51 settlements and $2.9 million in total fines. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa189.htm Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release:September 13,1996 No. 96-OPA190 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: MAUMEE SEDIMENT SAMPLING TO BEGIN U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Great Lakes National Program Office and Ohio EPA Northwest District Office will be sampling sediments in the Maumee River, Maumee Bay and several river tributaries. The field study aims to determine the extent and type of sediment contamination and map the extent of each type. The study is scheduled for September 16 - 27, 1996. Researchers aboard the EPA's R/V Mudpuppy will collect about 70 sediment cores for the study, which continues work that began in May 1995. The Mudpuppy is a 32-foot aluminum boat, designed specifically to sample, map, and characterize softsediment deposits. The boat is equipped with a global positioning system. If you are interested in more details or a photo opportunity, call Brent Kuenzli at Ohio EPA, (419) 353-8461. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa190.htm For Immediate Release: September 16,1996 No. 96-OPA191 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS This is for planning purposes only, not for release. On Tuesday, September 17, U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the State of Indiana, will announce an innovative settlement of a lawsuit with several Northwest Indiana companies at a press conference in Hammond, IN. WHO: Lois Schiffer, Assistant Attorney General for the Environment and Natural Resources; Steven Herman, EPA Assistant Administrator for Enforcement and Compliance Assistance; Michael O'Connor, Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management; Jon DeGuilio, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana; Indiana Attorney General Pamela Carter; Patrick Ralston, Director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources; John Blankenship, Assistant Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; David Ullrich and Michelle Jordan, Deputy Regional Administrators, EPA Region 5; and legal and technical staff who negotiated the agreement. WHAT: The announcement of a settlement of a Clean Water Act lawsuit that includes innovative provisions that will result in a cleaner environment in Northwest Indiana. WHEN: 11 a.m. (CST), Tuesday, September 17, 1996 WHERE: Olympic Plaza Hotel, 4141 Calumet Avenue, Hammond, IN. For more information, call Phillippa Cannon, U.S. EPA Region 5, (312) 353-6218, or Carol Florman, U.S. Dept. of Justice, (202) 514-2007. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa191.htm Media Contact: Ginny Narsete (312) 886-4359 For Immediate Release:September 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA192 EPA TO HOLD INFO SESSION ON FIELDS BROOK SITE SEPT. 26 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold an informational session 7 p.m., September 26, Kent State Ashtabula Campus Auditorium, 3325 West 13th St., Ashtabula, OH. EPA and Ohio EPA representatives will be on hand to informally discuss the cleanup plan for the Fields Brook Superfund site in Ashtabula. Copies of site-related documents are available for review at the Ashtabula County District Library, Kent State Campus Library, 225 West 44th St., Ashtabula. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa192.htm Technical Contact: Denny Dart (312)886-1426 Legal Contact: Jan Loughlin (312)353-3440 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312)353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA193 EPA CITES KRAMER FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to H. Kramer and Co., Inc., for alleged violations of State air pollution regulations at its Chicago foundry. Kramer makes brass and bronze ingots from recycled metal at 1343 West 21st St., south of the Pilsen neighborhood. The company was cited for exceeding visible emission limitations. Rotary furnaces at the facility emit particulates (ash, smoke, and dust) into the atmosphere through roof vents. The facility's emissions control system has been unable to stop all of the particulates from escaping. Inspections in November 1995 and May 1996 found visible emissions from Kramer's roof vents exceeded the allowed limits for opacity (the amount of light obscured). The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against Kramer. A meeting between EPA and Kramer to discuss the violations has been scheduled for the week of October 14. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa193.htm Legal Contact: Tom Williams (312)886-0814 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312)886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312)886-1303 For Immediate Release:September 19,1996 No. 96-OPA194 EPA SETTLES WITH CONSOLIDATED RAIL; INCLUDES $18,500 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled an administrative complaint with Consolidated Rail Corp. The company will pay an $18,500 fine. The complaint alleged that in July 1991, cupric chloride was spilled from a tank car at the company's Elkhart, IN, facility. The company was cited for not immediately notifying the National Response Center in Washington, DC. Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, the person in charge of the facility must immediately report certain hazardous-substance spills to the proper authorities. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 81 separate complaints for violations of hazardous-chemical reporting requirements, resulting in 51 settlements and $2.9 million in total fines. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa194.htm Legal Contact: Robert Thompson (312)353-6700 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312)886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312)886-1303 For Immediate Release: September 17,1996 No. 96-OPA195 EPA SETTLES WITH DREEBLAN PAINT; INCLUDES $1,000 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled an administrative complaint against Dreeblan Paint Supply Co., Chicago, IL. The company will pay a $1,000 fine for not reporting to proper authorities information required by Federal law. Between 1991 and 1993, Dreeblan allegedly failed to provide the State emergency response commission and the local emergency planning committee with required forms for 1991-1994. According to the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, certain hazardous chemicals must be reported to State and local authorities. Also, owners or operators of facilities must prepare or have available necessary forms for hazardous chemicals. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 81 separate complaints for hazardous-chemical releases and for not reporting chemical storage quantities, resulting in 51 settlements and $2.9 million in total fines. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: Septebmer 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa195.htm Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release: September 18,1996 No. 96-OPA196 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA TO HOLD MEETINGS ON COPPER RANGE MINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a series of meetings to discuss human health and environmental safety issues related to Copper Range Co.?s proposed full-scale chemical mining at White Pine, MI. EPA staff will present plans for an environmental analysis, answer questions, and take comments from residents. The meetings are scheduled for: - 5-9 p.m. Monday, September 23, Community Center, Maple Street, Bad River Reservation (near Ashland, WI). - 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, September 24, WITC Conference Center, 2100 Beaser Ave., Ashland, WI. - 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, September 25, Ironwood City Council Chambers, 213 South Marquette St., Ironwood, MI. - 4-8 p.m., Thursday, September 26, Chippewa Room, Ojibwe Hotel-Resort, 797 Michigan Ave., Keewenaw Bay Indian Reservation (near Baraga, MI). Two media availability sessions are also scheduled: l 9-10 a.m. Tuesday, September 24, WITC, Ashland, WI - 1:30 - 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 25, Ironwood City Commission, Ironwood, MI. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: Septebmer 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa196.htm Technical Contact: John Dorgan (312)886-1336 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312)886-1303 For Immediate Release:September 19, 1996 No. 96-OPA197 EPA ISSUES NOTICE OF NONCOMPLIANCE TO CHARLEVOIX PUBLIC SCHOOLS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of noncompliance to Charlevoix Public Schools (Charlevoix, MI) for violating Federal asbestos rules. Charlevoix Public Schools has failed to properly manage asbestos-containing material in ceiling plaster and other areas at two of their schools-- Charlevoix High School and Charlevoix Middle School. If not properly addressed, asbestos fibers could be released through water damage, physical abuse or normal deterioration--posing a health hazard to occupants of the buildings. EPA's notice allows the schools 30 days to address the violations. In 1986, the Federal Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act was passed, requiring all public and private local education agencies to manage all asbestos-containing materials present in their schools. Under the Act, all schools must conduct an inspection to identify asbestos-containing materials and to generate a management plan for any materials identified. In addition, all local education agencies must notify parents, teachers, and staff annually about the presence of asbestos in schools, and about any asbestos-related activities occurring at their school. Asbestos, a known cancer-causing substance, is harmful when inhaled. It may cause asbestosis (a lung disease) and mesothelioma (a type of chest cancer) 10 to 40 years after exposure. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa197.htm Legal Contact: Gaylene Vasaturo (312) 886-1811 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312) 886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: September 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA198 EPA CITES BRACH & BROCK FOR REPORTING VIOLATIONS; PROPOSES $45,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against Brach & Brock Confections, Inc. (Chicago, IL), for not reporting to proper authorities data on the storage of a hazardous chemical. EPA has proposed a $45,000 fine. Brach & Brock allegedly failed to submit a hazardous chemical inventory form for anhydrous ammonia to the State emergency response commission, the local emergency planning committee, and the local fire department for 1994, by March 1, 1995. Under the Emergency Planning and Community Rightto- Know Act, owners and operators of facilities must submit forms for certain hazardous chemicals to the proper State and local authorities every March. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 83 separate complaints for hazardous-chemical reporting violations, resulting in 54 settlements and $2.9 million in total fines. Nationally, EPA has settled 458 cases resulting in $10 million in total fines. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 24, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa198.htm Technical Contact: Linda Hamsing (312) 886-6810 Legal Contact: Rudy Tanasijevich (312) 886-4683 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA199 EPA REACHES AGREEMENT WITH SPECIALTY SYSTEMS; INCLUDES $35,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with Specialty Systems, Inc., (Indianapolis, IN), on alleged violations of asbestos emission standards during two renovation projects. The agreement includes a $35,000 penalty. EPA had filed an administrative complaint with a proposed penalty against the company in June. Specialty Systems' business is asbestos removal. EPA cited the company in September 1994 for asbestos violations at a Pfizer, Inc., facility in Terre Haute and later learned of asbestos violations at St. Vincent Hospital and Health Care Center, Inc., Indianapolis. The violations at both facilities were discovered by State and local field inspectors. Dry asbestos was observed on floors during both renovations. EPA standards require that asbestos be wetted during removal and kept wet until properly disposed of. If inhaled, dry, friable (easily crumbled) asbestos can cause mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) many years after exposure. "EPA is committed to enforcing asbestos regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, regional director of the Air and Radiation Division. "We will take the necessary steps to ensure that contractors comply with the regulations." The action was taken under authority of the Clean Air Act of 1990. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: September 24, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa199.htm Technical Contact: Cynthia Curtis (312) 353-6959 Legal Contact: Peter Felitti (312) 886-5114 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 24, 1996 No. 96-OPA201 EPA CITES MARBLEHEAD LIME FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Marblehead Lime Co. (Chicago, IL) for alleged violations of State air pollution regulations. Marblehead heats limestone to create lime used in making cement at its plant, 3245 East 103rd St. Kiln 5 exceeded particulate (dust, smoke, and ash) emissions limits as measured by opacity (the amount of light obscured) on several occasions: from July 1993 through March 1994 and from October 1994 through March 1995. The Marblehead kiln is in an area that has failed to attain national air quality standards for particulates. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against Marblehead. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." Marblehead has 30 days from receipt of the notice to request a meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa201.htm Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: September 24, 1996 No. 96-OPA202 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA WORKSHOP ON TOXIC CHEMICALS SEP. 27 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a free workshop for the public on how to get information about the presence and release of toxic chemicals in their community, how to access the toxic release inventory (TRI) through the Internet, and how preventing pollution can improve environmental conditions in their community. The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., September 27, Wright College, Science Building, Room S247, 4700 North Narragansett, Chicago. TRI is a publicly available database that provides information on toxic chemicals being legally released from manufacturing facilities into the air, water, and land and injected into underground disposal wells. Congress established TRI under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986. Facilities report their TRI information annually to EPA and their State. The workshop is free to the public. To reserve a space, call Fran Guido at 312-886-4348. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa202.htm Technical Contact: Eugenia Chow (312) 353-3156 Media Contact: Susan Pastor (312) 353-1325 For Immediate Release: September 27, 1996 No. 96-OPA203 EPA ORDERS NATIONAL PRESTO TO FINISH SITE CLEANUP U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently ordered National Presto Industries, Inc., and its subsidiary, the National Defense Corp., to design and carry out final cleanup measures for their Superfund site in Eau Claire, WI. The order says both companies must take care of contaminated soils remaining at the site and continue ground-water cleanup already under way. The companies agreed to this order voluntarily. EPA signed a record of decision in May, outlining the final cleanup measures for the site. Under this order, the companies will: - install a soil vapor extraction system, remove "hot spots," and install a multi-layer cover at the Melby Road site over combined wastes from the Melby Road and East Disposal sites; - remove contaminated soil at Drainage Ditch 3 and combine it with waste at Melby Road; and l remove contaminated soil from Dry Wells 2 and 5 and dispose of it in an off-site landfill. Failure to comply with this order could subject the companies to daily penalties of up to $25,000. Last year, Congress appropriated an additional $15 million to clean up this site, which was formerly owned by the U.S. Government. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 1, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa203.htm Technical Contact: Newton Ellens (312) 353-5562 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 30, 1996 No. 96-OPA204 EPA CITES REPAP WISCONSIN FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Repap Wisconsin, Inc., for alleged violations of federally-enforceable State air pollution regulations at Repap's Kimberly, WI, paper mill. Repap was cited for exceeding the allowable limits for particulate emissions (ash, smoke, dust) at two coal-fired boilers. EPA and Wisconsin officials inspected the mill in May. Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can lead to heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, or those with existing heart and respiratory conditions are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the company. EPA and Repap have held discussions about resolving the alleged violations. "EPA is committed to enforcing clean air regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that companies comply with the Clean Air Act." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 1, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa204.htm Technical Contact: Newton Ellens (312) 353-5562 Legal Contact: Jeff Cahn (312) 886-6670 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: September 30, 1996 No. 96-OPA205 EPA CITES WISC. DEPT. AND CONTRACTOR FOR ASBESTOS VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued findings of violation to the Wisconsin department in charge of University of Wisconsin facilities and a contractor for alleged violations of the national emission standards for asbestos on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. Those cited are: Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Facilities Development (Madison, WI); and Technology Services, Inc., (St. Paul, MN). The violations occurred during asbestos removals at the Social Science Building and the Humanities Building during summer 1994. The contractor failed to notify the proper authorities of pertinent changes made in the asbestos cleanup plan, did not wet asbestos or keep asbestos wet to reduce emissions, and improperly disposed of the asbestos-containing material. If inhaled, dry, friable (easily crumbled) asbestos can cause mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) many years after exposure. The notices, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve the violations, the act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, set an administrative penalty, or bring suit against the facility. "EPA is committed to enforcing asbestos regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, regional director of the Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all necessary steps to ensure that contractors comply with regulations." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: October 1, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa205.htm Media Contact: Eileen Deamer (312) 886-1728 For Immediate Release: August 1, 1996 No. 96-OPA163 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a public meeting at 7 p.m. on August 7 at the Tomah City Hall Council Chambers, 819 Superior Avenue, Tomah, WI, to discuss and hear comments on the proposed cleanup plan for the Tomah Fairgrounds Superfund site. The proposed plan and other documents about the site are available for review at the Tomah Public Library, 716 Superior Avenue. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: August 5, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa163.htm Technical Contact: Linda Hamsing (312) 886-6810 Legal Contact: Janice Loughlin (312) 353-3440 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: August 5, 1996 No. 96-OPA164 EPA CITES VULCAN MATERIALS FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently cited Vulcan Materials Co. for alleged violations of Federal and State air pollution regulations at the company's McCook, IL, rock-crushing quarry plant. Vulcan mines, crushes, and processes limestone aggregate rock at the McCook quarry. The plant operates a series of crushers, screens, and conveyors to produce various sizes of rock. EPA said Vulcan exceeded particulate matter (dust) emissions limits by: - discharging from a rock crusher fugitive particulate matter with an opacity level (the amount of light obscured by particulates) greater than 15 percent; - discharging from a screen fugitive particulate matter with an opacity level greater than 10 percent; - failing to operate water spray equipment to control emissions several days in 1995 and 1996; and - failing to clean paved areas. In addition, Vulcan failed to report construction dates to EPA and Illinois EPA, failed to conduct timely emission testing required by Federal regulations, and failed to submit reports of emission control procedures for its roadways as required by State regulations. EPA said breathing high concentrations of particulates may worsen the condition of persons with heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, and asthmatics are the most susceptible. The emission violations were discovered during inspections by EPA and Illinois EPA. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: August 5, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa164.htm Technical Contact: Jennifer Darrow (312) 886-6315 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: August 5, 1996 No. 96-OPA165 EPA CITES RED ARROW FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Red Arrow Products Co., Inc., for alleged violations of federally enforceable State air pollution regulations at the company's Manitowoc, WI, plant. EPA said the company, which makes smoke flavorings for the food industry, exceeded State limits on visible emissions of particulates (smoke, dust, fly ash) from its sawdust dryer in July 1995. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. In order to resolve the violations, the Act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, an administrative penalty order, or to bring suit against the facility. High concentrations of particulates can worsen the condition of people with heart or lung disease. Children, the elderly, and asthmatics are the most susceptible. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: August 5, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa165.htm Technical Contact: Katherine Keith (312) 353-6956 Legal Contact: Sean Mulroney (312) 886-7150 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 1, 1996 No. 96-OPA139 EPA CITES SHELL OIL FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Shell Oil Co. for alleged Clean Air Act violations at the company's Wood River, IL, refinery. EPA said several process heaters and boilers at the Shell refinery exceeded sulfur dioxide emissions limits contained in one of the facility's operating permits. Sulfur dioxide is a lung irritant that can trigger responses such as coughing and narrowing of breathing passages. Children, the elderly, and persons with heart and lung diseases are most vulnerable. The notice is a preliminary notice of violation. The Clean Air Act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order or to bring suit against the facility. In April 1995, EPA had cited the Shell refinery for numerous violations, including sulfur dioxide emissions, at other processes throughout the refinery. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa139.htm Technical Contact: Brent Marable (312) 886-6812 Legal Contact: Richard Murawski (312) 886-6721 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 1, 1996 No. 96-OPA140 EPA, MONACO COACH REACH AGREEMENT; INCLUDES $50,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with Monaco Coach Corp. on alleged Clean Air Act violations at the company's Elkhart, IN, facility. The company has agreed to pay a $50,000 civil penalty. EPA cited Monaco, a motor-home manufacturer, in January 1996 for building and operating paintspraying booths at its Elkhart plant before getting federally-enforceable State permits. EPA said Monaco's paint-spraying operation emits volatile organic material, which combines in the atmosphere with other chemicals to form groundlevel ozone (smog). Ground-level ozone can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, asthma, eye irritation, stuffy nose, reduced resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed up aging of lung tissue. Smog can also damage plants and trees and reduce visibility. EPA said the company's paint-spraying operations were built at a time when Elkhart County was already suffering from ground-level ozone, unable to meet national health-based standards. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa140.htm Technical Contact: Emmett Keegan (312) 886-0678 Legal Contact: Janice Loughlin (312) 886-7158 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 1, 1996 No. 96-OPA141 EPA CITES NORTHWESTERN STEEL & WIRE FOR AIR POLLUTION VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has issued two notices of violation to Northwestern Steel & Wire Co. for alleged violations of Federal and State air-pollutant regulations at the company's Sterling, IL, facility. EPA said the company exceeded limits on particulate (dust, fly ash, smoke) emissions from two of its three electric arc furnaces and from the shop containing the arc furnaces. The company also allegedly failed to do the required testing of emissions and monitoring of operations at the furnace shop and associated air pollution control equipment. The notices, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, are preliminary findings of violations. The Act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order or to bring suit against the facility. EPA said breathing high concentrations of particulates has been shown to worsen the condition of persons with heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, and asthmatics are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa141.htm Technical Contact: Gregory Carlson (312) 886-0124 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: July 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA142 EPA SETTLES WITH GALLAGHER & HENRY ON WETLANDS VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with Gallagher & Henry, Inc. (Countryside, IL)--a real estate developer--for illegally filling in wetlands in southwestern Cook County, IL. The company has agreed to pay a $35,000 fine and create 11 acres of wetlands in the same area to replace the destroyed wetlands. In March 1993, EPA cited the developer for destroying 12 acres of wetlands at sites in Tinley Park, Orland Park, and Palos Township without first obtaining the required permits. The company filled-in wetlands while preparing two sites for development (including the Brittany Glen housing development in Palos Township) and repairing drain tile at the third site. The company took steps to restore the wetlands in Tinley Park and Orland Park and obtain an after-the-fact permit for the Brittany Glen development. Since initial attempts by the company to establish replacement wetlands have failed, the new project will be supervised by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. "EPA believes that this settlement will deter future wetlands violations and resolve outstanding compliance issues at these sites," said JoLynn Traub, regional director of the Water Division. "The company has retained environmental consultants to help meet regulatory requirements and has not had any more violations." Wetlands include marshes, swamps, bogs, and similar areas between water and dry land. They are among the most environmentally beneficial areas in the Nation, harboring unique soils and plants that provide food and habitat for fish and wildlife. They provide erosion and flood control as well as recreation. Under the Clean Water Act, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must issue a permit before any waters of the United States, including wetlands, are filled. EPA is authorized to order restoration of illegally filled wetlands and to assess administrative penalties of up to $125,000 for each violation. It may also seek judicially imposed penalties of $25,000 per day of violation, or imprisonment, or both. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa142.htm Technical Contact: James Hahnenberg (312) 353-4213 Media Contact: Cheryl Allen (312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: July 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA143 EPA TO ANSWER QUESTIONS ON CLEANUP OF THERMO-CHEM SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 staff will make a presentation and answer questions on the cleanup of the Thermo-Chem site, Muskegon, MI, on Wednesday, July 10, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Egelston Township Hall, 5428 East Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI. Testing of soils and ground water at the site has already begun, and work will continue through the fall. In addition, the investigation of Black Creek for possible contamination will resume this summer. The site, a former solvent recycler, is being cleaned up under the Superfund program. Cleanup began in September 1995. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa143.htm Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release: July 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA144 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA, GRAND PORTAGE BAND, MPCA TO SIGN AGREEMENT U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5, the Grand Portage Band of Chippewa Indians, and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) will hold a signing ceremony inaugurating a waterquality program to be cooperatively carried out by the Band and MPCA on portions of Lake Superior. Also at the ceremony, EPA will approve "treatment as a State" privileges for the Band for the waterquality program at Grand Portage. The ceremony will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 16, at The Pines on the Grand Portage Reservation. If it rains, the ceremony will be in the Grand Portage Community Center. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa144.htm Technical Contact: Farro Assadi (312) 886-1424 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA145 EPA CITES H&D FOR AIR POLLUTION; INCLUDES $191,297 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed an administrative complaint against H&D, Inc., for Clean Air Act violations at the company's Cheboygan County, MI, hot mix asphalt plant. A $191,297 penalty is proposed. The complaint alleges that H&D exceeded EPA standards for particulate emissions (dust, smoke, fly ash) at its Levering Road plant. EPA notified H&D of the violations in November 1995. Since then, in response to EPA's involvement, the company has installed a baghouse dust-control system to achieve and maintain compliance with standards. EPA said breathing high concentrations of particulates can worsen the condition of people with heart or lung disease. Children, the elderly, and asthmatics are the most susceptible. H&D has until July 28, 1996, to request a formal hearing. It may ask for an informal conference anytime to attempt to reach an agreement. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa145.htm Technical Contact: David Schulz (312) 886-6790 Legal Contact: Janice Loughlin (312) 353-3440 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA146 EPA CITES CINERGY CORP. FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Cinergy Corp. for alleged violations of federally enforceable State air pollution regulations at the company's Beckjord Generating Station, New Richmond, OH. EPA said the company exceeded State limits on particulate (dust,fly ash, smoke) emissions from one of the six coal-fired boilers it operates at the station. Emissions tests done at intervals from 1991 to 1994, and continuous monitoring of opacity (the amount of light obscured by particulates) during 1995, show violations. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. The Act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order or to bring suit against the facility. High concentrations of particulates are known to worsen the condition of persons with heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, and asthmatics are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa146.htm Technical Contacts: John Love (312) 886-6845 Terence Bonace (312) 886-3387 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: July 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA147 EPA CITES OLIN CORP. AND SETTLES WITH AMOCO ON TOXICANTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently settled with Amoco Corp. (Chicago, IL) and cited Olin Corp. (East Alton, IL) for violations of the Toxics Substances Control Act (TSCA). Amoco agreed to pay a penalty of $216,000 and complete an environmental project by December 1996. EPA had cited the company for distributing a chemical substance (epoxidized polybutene) without proper warning labels or health and safety information. For the environmental project, Amoco has agreed to install equipment at its Joliet, IL, facility to reduce air emissions of chemicals from wastewater ponds. The project, which has been partially completed, is estimated at $13.6 million. Olin was cited for improper handling of PCBcontaminated waste. EPA alleges that the company did not properly dispose of PCB-contaminated debris. The concentration of PCB's in the debris was 127 ppm. Federal regulations require that nonliquid PCB's at concentrations of 50 ppm or greater be disposed of in an incinerator or a chemical waste landfill. In April 1994, Olin shipped containers of PCB-contaminated materials as "non-hazardous" and "oil contaminated waste" to a landfill that was not approved under TSCA to handle PCB-contaminated waste. Regulations require that the shipping manifest identify PCBcontaminated waste and it was not so identified. PCB's are possible carcinogens. EPA can prohibit or limit the manufacture, processing, distribution, use, or disposal of chemicals that pose a potential risk to health or the environment. The cited companies may request a meeting with EPA to discuss the allegations and to arrive at a settlement. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 12, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa147.htm Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: July 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA148 EPA, MICHIGAN PROPOSE CHANGES TO STURGIS WELLFIELD CLEANUP; SEEK PUBLIC COMMENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality are proposing to change the cleanup plan for the Sturgis Municipal Wellfield Superfund site, Sturgis, MI. The original plan was developed because several wells that supply water to Sturgis were contaminated with chemicals. Identified as the main sources of contamination were Kirsch Co. Plant No. 1 and the former Wade Electric property. EPA and Michigan are proposing to amend the 1991 cleanup plan, to reflect changes in State cleanup standards, changes in soil contamination levels at the site, and effects of those changes on cleaning up contaminated soil and ground water. The 1991 remedy calls for: - soil vapor extraction of volatile organic compounds (VOC's) in contaminated soils; - excavation and disposal of soils contaminated with low-level polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH's); - extraction and treatment of ground water by air stripping, then discharging the treated water into surface waters (via storm sewers) or into the municipal system; and - a minimum 30-year ground-water monitoring program. In the proposed amendments: - soil cleanup levels are changed to reflect current State requirements; - ground-water cleanup levels are changed from State cleanup levels to current Federal levels; - no action for PAH-contaminated soils; and - no action for VOC-contaminated soil at the Wade property. Comments on the proposal are being accepted through August 9, 1996. They should be sent to Bri Bill, Community Involvement Coordinator, Office of Public Affairs (P-19J), EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. A public meeting to discuss the proposed cleanup changes will be held if there is sufficient public interest. After the public comment period, EPA will issue a document, called a Record of Decision Amendment, outlining the selected changes to the cleanup plan. EPA will also issue a summary of public comments received. Site-related documents can be found at Sturgis Public Library, 130 North Nottawa, Sturgis, MI 49091; (616) 651-3687. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 10, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa148.htm Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA149 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that two EPA officials are scheduled to visit East Liverpool, OH, July 31, 1996, as a follow-up to a recent visit by EPA's chief scientist, Dr. Robert J. Huggett. Timothy Fields Jr., deputy assistant administrator for Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER), and David A. Ullrich, deputy administrator for EPA Region 5, will hear first-hand the concerns of the community about WTI and tour the WTI plant and surroundings. A town meeting has been scheduled 2 to 4 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the East Liverpool City Hall, 126 West 6th St. ### ------------------------------------------------ (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: July 12, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa149.htm Technical Contact: Jennifer Darrow (312) 886-6315 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA150 EPA CITES PET REST GARDENS FOR AIR POLLUTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Pet Rest Gardens for alleged Clean Air Act violations at the company's Flushing, MI, animal waste incinerator. EPA said the company exceeded State and Federal emissions limits for particulates (ash, smoke, dust) at its multichamber incinerator and created an unreasonable nuisance for its neighbors. The notice is a preliminary finding of violations. The Clean Air Act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order or to bring suit against the facility. EPA said breathing high concentrations of particulates has been shown to worsen the condition of persons with heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly, and asthmatics are the most sensitive to particulate pollution. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 12, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa150.htm Technical Contact: Tom Williams (312) 886-6157 Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: July 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA151 EPA SEEKS COMMENTS ON OCI CLEANUP PLAN; PUBLIC HEARING JULY 16 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is seeking comments on the proposed cleanup plan for the Organic Chemicals, Inc., Superfund site, Grandville, MI. EPA is proposing to excavate and treat contaminated soil on-site by solidification and stabilization. The estimated cleanup cost is $1.7 million. The 45-day public comment period runs from July 15 through August 28, 1996. EPA will hold a formal public hearing to explain all of the cleanup alternatives considered and to accept oral and written comments on the plan at 7 p.m., July 16, Grandville City Hall Chambers, 3195 Wilson, Grandville. After the public comment period, EPA will issue a document outlining the selected cleanup plan. The document will also address responses to public comments received. The proposed plan and other site-related documents are available for review at Grandville Public Library, 3141 Wilson Ave. Written comments must be postmarked no later than August 28, 1996, and sent to: Denise Gawlinski (P-19J) Community Involvement Coordinator U.S. EPA Region 5 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 Comments may also be sent through e-mail to: gawlinski.denise@epamail.epa.gov. The site is on the National Priorities List, which names hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund, currently up for reauthorization by Congress. ### ------------------------------------------------ A fact sheet describing the proposed plan for the Organic Chemicals, Inc., Superfund Site is available in Adobe Acrobat format (1 MB). To view this file, you will need Adobe's free Acrobat Reader software, which is available from their WWW site. Last Updated: July 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa151.htm Technical Contacts: Marc Radell-EPA (312) 886-7948 Duane Anderson-MPCA (612) 297-1831 Norman Deschampes-Grand Portage (218) 475-2277 Media Contacts: Don de Blasio-EPA (312) 886-4360 Judy Melander-MPCA (612) 296-6515 Kris Carre-Grand Portage Band (218) 475-2277 For Immediate Release: July 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA152 EPA, GRAND PORTAGE BAND, MPCA SIGN HISTORIC WATERQUALITY AGREEMENT U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today approved a water-quality standards program for the Grand Portage Band of Chippewa Indians. EPA also approved a cooperative agreement between the Band and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) establishing joint water-quality management over parts of Lake Superior--the first such arrangement between a State and an Indian Tribe in the United States. The EPA approval, or authorization, is often referred to as "treatment as a State" because it gives Indian tribes environmental controls similar to those given to States. The authorization recognizes the Band's technical ability to establish standards for water quality affecting its reservation in Northeast Minnesota, on the north shore of Lake Superior. The authorization also allows the Band to identify waters within the reservation and to designate water uses. The Band is particularly concerned about protecting waters that it considers vital for its wild-rice crop and other uses. EPA retains authority to enforce water-quality standards in a few areas that the Band did not apply for, such as the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, a provision of the Clean Water Act that regulates pollutant-discharge through a special permit. The cooperative agreement between the Band and the MPCA was negotiated as result of a jurisdictional dispute over parts of Lake Superior. Rather than pursue the issue through expensive and timeconsuming legal battles, the Band and the State chose to negotiate an agreement to jointly administer the water-quality-standards program. EPA Regional Administrator Valdas V. Adamkus said, "The EPA approval of water-quality standards is continuing proof of the growing ability of American Indian tribes to take responsibility for their natural environment--an element that is so culturally important and vital to them." Adamkus said he is also extremely pleased with the arrangement that the State and the Band worked out. "This is a very good agreement," Adamkus said. "It is gratifying to see two of EPA's partners work out a plan in a friendly way that will benefit the State, the Band, and the environment." Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson said he approved of the EPA authorization for the Band and that he is pleased with the agreement that the Band and the MPCA negotiated. "The State looks forward to a cooperative working relationship with the Band on our mutual mission of protecting water quality," Carlson said. MPCA Acting Commissioner Peder Larson agreed, saying, "We expect this agreement will be of benefit to all parties while ensuring that Lake Superior will retain the highest degree of protection." Grand Portage Band Chairman Norman Deschampe expressed his satisfaction with the agreements as well. "American Indians have a special relationship with nature," Deschampe said. "I am gratified that the Grand Portage Band will be able to take a bigger role in protecting the environment for this generation and those to come. "I also welcome this new partnership with the State. I think this may set a precedent for intergovernmental relationships that will be of benefit to other Indian tribes in the Midwest as well as to the State." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 16, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa152.htm Technical Contact: Christos Panos (312) 353-8328 Legal Contact: Jane Woolums (312) 886-6720 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA153 EPA: AIR NOW CLEANER IN PARTS OF DETROIT & S.E. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that parts of Detroit and southeastern Wayne County, MI, now meet Federal health-based standards for microscopic airpollution particles (particulates)--tinier than the width of a human hair. This is the most industrialized area to be so redesignated nationally, and the only area in Michigan that has not met Federal standards for particulates up to now. The redesignation comprises the industrialized area along the Detroit River. Federally-enforceable State pollution control regulations are responsible for the air being cleaner, EPA said. These regulations ensure that approximately 2,000 tons of particulates will not be emitted into the atmosphere every year from industry in the area. The area redesignation was signed today by Deputy Regional Administrator David A. Ullrich. It becomes effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. If there are adverse comments, however, the redesignation will be withdrawn until all comments can be considered in a final rulemaking. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 16, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa153.htm Technical Contact: John Fagiolo (312) 886-0800 Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski 312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: July 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA154 EPA SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLEANUP REEVALUATION FOR BOFORS-NOBEL SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is seeking comments on a reevaluation of the cleanup plan for the Bofors-Nobel Superfund site, Muskegon, MI. Based on new information about cleanup technologies, EPA compared its current cleanup plan to installing a slurry wall around the waste and placing a landfill cover on the site. The current cleanup plan, approved in 1992, calls for removing the contaminated soils and sludges and placing them in an on-site landfill, and pumping and treating the ground water. EPA still recommends the existing cleanup plan. EPA is holding a 30-day public comment period-- through August 13--on the two plans: the current one and the landfill cap/slurry wall plan. Written comments must be postmarked no later than August 13, 1996, and sent to: Denise Gawlinski (P-19J) Community Involvement Coordinator U.S. EPA Region 5 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 Comments may also be sent through e-mail to: gawlinski.denise@epamail.epa.gov. After the public comment period, EPA will review all comments and respond to them in a document called a responsiveness summary. The reevaluation document and other site-related documents are available for review at: Egelston Township Hall Hackley Library 5382 East Apple Ave. 316 West Webster St. Muskegon, MI Muskegon, MI In addition, EPA recently authorized a change to the current plan. A document, called an explanation of significant differences, outlines the change to the ground-water treatment plant. The cost of operating and maintaining the treatment plant has increased from $350,000 to $1.1 million per year because of improvements made to the system. The treatment plant has been treating contaminated ground water since September 1994. The site is on the National Priorities List, which names hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund, currently up for reauthorization by Congress. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 16, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa154.htm Technical Contact: David Stoltenberg (312) 353-5784 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: July 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA155 EPA NAMES HANOVER PARK SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT AS BEST IN STATE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 on July 18, will recognize the Village of Hanover Park, IL, for having the best-operated wastewater treatment plant in the State for 1996. An award will be presented at the Village Board meeting in the Village Hall, 2121 West Lake St., at 7:30 p.m. EPA recognized the plant because of its excellent environmental compliance record, its aggressive pollution prevention program (which has successfully controlled wastewater discharges from a new industrial park), its outstanding maintenance program, and the construction of an 800,000 gallon sludge storage tank. The plant serves 8,200 people. Wastewater treatment plants protect public health and the environment by treating sewage to reduce the amount of pollutants that are discharged into lakes, rivers, and streams. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 17, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa155.htm Technical Contact: David Stoltenberg (312) 353-5784 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: July 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA156 EPA RECOGNIZES TOP SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has named the Region's best-operated municipal wastewater treatment plants for 1996. The following plants will receive EPA Operation and Maintenance awards at local ceremonies over the next few months: Chelsea, MI best in the small secondary treatment category Wadena, MN best in the small advanced treatment category Marquette, MI best in the medium secondary treatment category West Bend, WI best in the medium advanced treatment category Eau Claire, WI best in the large secondary treatment category Anderson, IN best in the large advanced treatment category Hanover Park, IL best in State Stephenson, MI most improved plant Wastewater treatment plants protect public health and the environment by treating sewage to reduce the amount of pollutants that are discharged into lakes, rivers, and streams. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 17, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa156.htm Technical Contact: Janet Pope (312) 353-8780 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 19, 1996 No. 96-OPA157 EPA TO CAR OWNERS: STOP FREON LEAKS, SAVE MONEY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today advised owners to repair freon leaks in their car air conditioners and save money in the long run. EPA said Federal law does not require freon leak repairs (some State laws and local ordinances do), but the amount of freon available to consumers has steadily dropped since freon production was stopped in December 1995. And this has led to price increases. In the long run, EPA emphasized, postponing repairs and just topping off leaking refrigerants will be more expensive to car owners. The freon continues to leak and its price continues to rise. Federal law requires technicians who work on auto air conditioners to be certified by an EPAapproved training program. They must also be certified in the proper use of freon recovery and recycling. If a car air conditioner is leaking freon, EPA recommends that technicians notify owners and give them options for service. Technicians should not say freon leak repairs are required by Federal law. Making such a statement to obtain the car owner's consent for repairs is consumer fraud. If this happens, EPA would like to hear about it. It is the owner's decision to have such leaks repaired. Another option, depending on the car's make and model, is to retrofit the current air conditioning system so it could use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant. Auto dealerships should have information on this Freon depletes the "good," or stratospheric, ozone layer, allowing dangerous amounts of cancercausing ultraviolet rays from the sun to strike the earth's surface. For further information on freon, call one of these EPA representatives: Janet Pope (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio)--312-353-8780; Marietta Newell (Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota)--312-353-4543. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 22, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa157.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: July 19, 1996 No. 96-OPA158 NEW PRAGUE RESIDENT MEETS WITH EPA CHIEF ON SMALLTOWN ISSUES Ken Bruzelius, executive director of the Midwest Assistance Program (New Prague, MN), and other members of the Small Town Task Force, recently met with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Carol Browner in Washington, D.C. They discussed environmental issues that affect small towns and the recommendations made in the task force's report to EPA. Bruzelius is a former member of the LeSueur County Planning and Zoning Commission. The task force presented its final report to EPA in June. It included recommendations on improving the relationship between EPA and small communities, improving the ability of small towns to comply with regulations, promoting regionalization of environmental treatment systems, solving multijurisdictional compliance and permitting problems, and involving small communities in the rulemaking process. Jackie Sticha, program developer with the Midwest Assistance Program, helped to write the report. The task force was mandated by Congress and established in 1992 to provide recommendations to EPA, under the premise that small towns are different from large ones--not just smaller. It consisted of 14 representatives from towns with populations of less than 2,500. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 22, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa158.htm Technical Contact: Linda Hamsing (312) 886-6810 Legal Contact: Janice Loughlin (312) 353-3440 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA159 EPA CITES 3 COMPANIES FOR ASBESTOS VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently cited three companies for violating Federal hazardous air pollution standards for asbestos. Citations were issued to American National Can Co., Hammond, IN; Texam International, Inc., Miami, FL; and Zapata Envases S.A.DE C.V. (Zapata), Cuatitlan, Mexico, for violating asbestos standards at the American National plant in Hammond. The Hammond Department of Environmental Management discovered the alleged violations while inspecting the plant in March 1994. Several ovens from American National's can-coating operations had been sold to Texam, an equipment brokerage firm, on behalf of Zapata. Zapata workers removed asbestos while they were dismantling ovens at the plant. During the inspection, dry, easily crumbled (friable) asbestos was found in unsealed bags, loose in a dumpster, on the plant floor, and in ovens that were to remain at the plant. This violates EPA regulations which require that all regulated asbestos-containing material that is removed or stripped be kept wet until collected and contained for disposal. In addition, Zapata did not provide the required advance written notice for asbestos removal. The only notice was filed after asbestos removal had begun, and it failed to identify Zapata. "EPA is committed to enforcing asbestos regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "We will take all steps necessary to ensure that these companies comply with Federal asbestos regulations." Asbestos is a known cancer-causing agent, which can lead to mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) many years after exposure. EPA's action was taken under authority of the Clean Air Act of 1990. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa159.htm Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA160 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a two-session town meeting, to hear local concerns about Waste Technologies Industries (WTI), Wednesday, July 31, in Council Chambers of City Hall, 126 West 6th St., East Liverpool, OH. The first session will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and the second session from 5 to 6:30 p.m. EPA had originally scheduled only one session but has decided to hold an extra session to give more people a chance to meet with EPA officials. EPA is asking East Liverpool area residents to go to only one session and thus give more citizens a chance to express their views to EPA. Two EPA officials--Timothy Fields, Jr., deputy assistant administrator for Solid Waste and Emergency Response, and David A. Ullrich, deputy administrator of EPA Region 5--will be there to hear first-hand the concerns of the community about WTI. Fields and Ullrich will also tour the WTI plant and surroundings during their trip, which is a follow-up to a recent visit by EPA's chief scientist, Dr. Robert J. Huggett. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa160.htm Technical Contact: Denise Young (312) 886-4241 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: July 24, 1996 No. 96-OPA161 EPA FINES FEDERATED OIL & GAS FOR UNPERMITTED WELL CONSTRUCTION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently fined Federated Oil and Gas, Inc., $2,500 for constructing a disposal well in Manistee County, MI, without first obtaining the necessary permit. "The company converted the well for salt water disposal in December 1993 -- before receiving a permit," said JoLynn Traub, regional director of the Water Division. "The Safe Drinking Water Act prohibits the use of unlicensed underground injection wells and aims to protect underground sources of drinking water from contamination." ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 24, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa161.htm Technical Contact: Newton Ellens (312) 353-5562 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: July 25, 1996 No. 96-OPA162 EPA CITES VISA LIGHTING FOR AIR POLLUTION VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently issued a notice of violation to Visa Lighting Co. for alleged violations of federally enforceable State air pollution regulations at the company's Milwaukee, WI, plant. Visa Lighting makes customized lighting fixtures for commercial and institutional buildings. EPA had obtained information that indicated the company may have violated air pollution regulations by building and operating three spray paint booths without a permit. The three booths emit volatile organic compounds into the air in a community that does not meet health-based standards for ground-level ozone (smog). EPA is evaluating company claims that no permits were required for building and operating the spray booths due to exemptions under Wisconsin air pollution regulations. Volatile organics combine in the atmosphere with other chemicals to form smog which can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, asthma, eye irritation, stuffy nose, reduced resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed up the aging of lung tissue. Smog can also damage plants and trees and reduce visibility. The notice, issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990, is a preliminary finding of violations. In order to resolve the violations, the Act authorizes EPA to issue a compliance order, an administrative penalty order, or to bring suit against the facility. ### ------------------------------------------------ Last Updated: July 30, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa162.htm Media Contacts: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: May 1, 1996 No. 96-OPA085 MEDIA ADVISORY: PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD EXTENDED U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) have extended the public comment period through May 18, 1996, on the draft operating licenses and permits for the Michigan Disposal Waste Treatment Plant and Wayne Disposal, Inc., Belleville, MI. The comment period was scheduled to end May 4, 1996. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa85.htm Technical Contact: Tim Prendiville (312) 886-5122 Media Contacts: Dave Novak (312) 886-9840 Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: May 1, 1996 No. 96-OPA086 EPA ANNOUNCES PUBLIC MEETING AND PUBLIC-COMMENT PERIOD FOR THE LOWER ECORSE CREEK SUPERFUND SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is accepting public comments through May 29, 1996 on alternatives for cleaning up the Lower Ecorse Creek Superfund site, Wyandotte, MI. A public meeting will be held on Thursday, May 9, at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, Wyandotte City Hall, 3131 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte, MI. Note that advertisements in local and Detroit papers contained a misprint on the date of the meeting. Representatives from EPA will be available to explain the preferred alternative and other alternatives, address questions, and accept oral and written comments. EPA evaluated three alternatives for addressing the site's contaminated soils: Alternative 1 is no action, that is, leaving the site alone; Alternative 2 involves excavation of the shallow contaminated soils, implementation of institutional controls for the deep soils and restoration of residential areas; and Alternative 3 involves the excavation of both the shallow and the deep contaminated soils and restoration of residential areas. EPA recommends Alternative 3 because it provides the highest level of protection for human health and the environment. The proposed cleanup plan is estimated to cost $646,000. Written comments, postmarked by May 29, 1996, may be sent to Dave Novak, Office of Public Affairs (P-19J), U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Site related documents can be found at the site information repository: Bacon Memorial Library 45 Vinewood Avenue Wyandotte, MI 48192 (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated:May 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa86.htm Legal Contact: Sandra Otaka (312) 886-7151 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312) 886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: May 2, 1996 No. 96-OPA087 EPA CITES CHERRY MEAT PACKERS, INC., FOR REPORTING REQUIREMENTS; PROPOSES $29,700 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently filed an administrative complaint against Cherry Meat Packers, Inc. (Chicago, IL). The company was cited for not reporting information regarding the storage of a hazardous chemical to the proper authorities. A $29,700 fine has been proposed. Cherry Meat Packers allegedly failed to provide the State emergency response commission, local emergency planning committee, and local fire department with a hazardous-chemical inventory form (Tier II) for anhydrous ammonia for calendar years 1988-1994. Under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, owners and operators of facilities must submit Tier II forms for hazardous chemicals to the proper authorities every March. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 78 separate complaints for violations of hazardous-chemical reporting requirements, resulting in 48 settlements and $2.75 million in total fines. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa87.htm Technical Contact: Len Zintak (312) 886-4246 Media Contact: Dave Novak (312) 886-9840 For Immediate Release: May 3, 1996 No. 96-OPA088 CLEANUP PROGRESSING AT C&M SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that cleanup at C&M Plating (208 South Main St., Roanoke, IN) is on schedule. EPA has moved into the last stage of the three-phase project. During phase one, EPA removed and disposed of all hazardous substances and wastes inside the three buildings at the site. EPA then decontaminated the buildings. The hazardous substances and wastes included arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, cyanide, lead, and zinc located in pits, drums, and soil. During phase two, local officials and local contractors from Huntington County and the City of Roanoke demolished the buildings and disposed of the debris. The third and final phase, which began last month, consists of removing contaminated soils from beneath the buildings and concrete slabs and disposing of them at a licensed chemical waste facility in Ft. Wayne, IN. To date, more than 1,500 tons of contaminated soil and about 500 cubic yards of concrete debris have been removed and disposed of. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is scheduled to begin removing underground storage tanks from the site next week. Work is being done by EPA's Emergency Response Team with help from IDEM and local officials. The cleanup is expected to be completed by June 1996, at a cost of about $1.4 million. EPA is working with local officials to encourage the redevelopment of the property--part of the Agency's commitment to help turn polluted, industrial sites throughout the country back into productive land for communities. EPA is cleaning up the site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund. The three-acre site is an inactive metal plating facility that operated from 1948 to 1987. EPA completed an emergency cleanup at the site in 1988, and Indiana officials did another cleanup in 1992. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 6, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa88.htm Technical Contact: James Hahnenberg (312) 353-4213 Media Contact: Cheryl Allen (312) 353-6196 For Immediate Release: May 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA089 EPA TO HOLD INFO SESSIONS MAY 16 FOR MANISTIQUE SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold three public availability sessions on a proposed change to the cleanup plan for the Manistique River and Harbor Superfund site (Manistique, MI). The public information sessions will be held 9-10:30 a.m., 3-4:30 p.m., and 6-7 p.m., May 16, at EPA's dredging-operations base, just off of Marina Drive at the Manistique River. Public comments on the cleanup plan will be accepted at the availability sessions. EPA is proposing to dredge all PCB-contaminated sediments from the river and the harbor and dispose of them off-site. Written comments on the proposal must be postmarked by May 30, 1996, and sent to Cheryl Allen, P-19J, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Comments may also be sent through e-mail to allen.cheryl@epamail.epa.gov. p>State and Federal studies have shown the presence of PCB contamination at unacceptable levels in the Manistique River and Harbor. The Michigan Department of Public Health issued a health advisory against eating carp caught in the harbor, and signs have been posted against eating other fish from the bottom of the harbor because of high levels of PCB's. Site-related information can be found at two repositories: the public library and the County Clerk's Office in the Schoolcraft County Court House--both in Manistique. To get to the site of the availability sessions, take U.S. Route 2 one-quarter mile east from the Manistique River to Marina Drive. Turn onto Marina Drive towards the river. EPA's base is located just downstream of the marina. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 7, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa89.htm Technical Contact: Robert Buckley (313) 692-7662 Media Contact: Derrick Kimbrough (312) 886-9749 For Immediate Release: May 7, 1996 No. 96-OPA090 EPA COMPLETES CLEANUP OF TOXIC PESTICIDE IN DETROIT HOMES U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently completed its cleanup of Detroit homes contaminated with the pesticide methyl parathion. Government involvement at the Detroit Pesticide Site began last year when the pesticide was detected in 39 of 141 residences tested. However, only three residences and a mission/soup kitchen required cleanup. The cleanup cost about $575,000. Cleanup work included decontaminating the indoors of homes and furnishings by "deactivating" the pesticide with a caustic solution. Areas damaged by the decontamination process were restored. Air and wipe samples were taken before and after the decontamination process to confirm cleanup. The interagency task force organized for the project included EPA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Strike Team, Michigan Department of Public Health, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA), Michigan Department of Social Services, Wayne County Department of Public Health, and Detroit Health Department. EPA's Emergency Response Team cleaned the site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund. Superfund is currently being reviewed by Congress for reauthorizaiton. The contamination was caused by the improper sale and use of indoor pest-control products containing methyl parathion. In May 1995, MDA officials issued consumer advisories on several products found to contain the toxic pesticide. Methyl parathion is registered for use on several agricultural crops, but is not allowed to be used inside buildings. Contact, inhalation, or ingestion of the pesticide can cause serious illness, or even death. A similar cleanup is underway in Buffalo, NY (part of EPA Region 2), and EPA Region 5 conducted a cleanup last year in Lorain and Cuyahoga Counties, OH, where more than 230 homes needed cleaning. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 8, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa90.htm Technical Contact: Rosita Clarke (312) 886-7251 Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: May 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA091 EPA PROPOSES CHANGE TO CANNELTON CLEANUP PLAN; PUBLIC MEETING MAY 22 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is proposing to change the cleanup plan for the Cannelton Industries, Inc., Superfund site, Sault Ste. Marie, MI. EPA is seeking public comments on the revised plan. The 30-day public comment period, which begins May 13 and runs through June 12, 1996, will give the public an opportunity to let EPA and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality know how it feels about the proposal to reduce the amount of contaminated soil, sediment, and tannery waste from the site that needs to be removed and disposed of. This reduction would eliminate the need for the construction of an on-site landfill. The revised cleanup plan would also allow the site to be developed for a combination of industrial, residential, and recreational uses. EPA is proposing to revise the cleanup plan because of changes in Michigan's cleanup standards and new information from pre-design studies at the site. The estimated cost for the revised cleanup plan is $5.5 million. EPA will hold a public meeting to explain the proposed plan and to accept oral and written comments at 7 p.m., May 22, Lincoln Elementary School, 810 E. 5th Ave., Sault Ste. Marie. After the public-comment period, EPA will issue a document outlining the selected cleanup plan. The document will also address responses to public comments received during the comment period. The revised proposed plan and other site-related documents are available for review at the Bayliss Public Library, 541 Library Dr., Sault Ste. Marie. Written comments must be postmarked no later than June 12, 1996, and sent to: Denise Gawlinski, P- 19J, Office of Public Affairs, EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60604. Comments can also be sent through e-mail to gawlinski.denise@epamail.epa.gov. The site is included on the National Priorities List, which names abandoned or hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund. Superfund is currently up for reauthorization by Congress. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 13, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa91.htm Technical Contact: Terese Van Donsel (312) 353-6564 Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: May 9, 1996 No. 96-OPA092 EPA SEEKS COMMENTS ON BRUCE CLEANUP PLAN; PUBLIC MEETING JUNE 3 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today released the proposed cleanup plan for the Bruce Products site, Howell, MI. EPA is seeking public comments on the proposed plan. The 30-day comment period, which begins May 15 and runs through June 13, 1996, gives the public an opportunity to let EPA know how it feels about the proposed plan to remove and dispose of the remaining contaminated soil at the Bruce site. EPA evaluated six alternatives, including the recommended alternative to excavate approximately 225 cubic yards of soil exceeding Michigan's standards and local background levels for arsenic. The estimated cleanup cost is $180,000. EPA will hold a public meeting to explain all of the alternatives considered and to accept oral and written comments on the proposed plan at 7 p.m., June 3, Howell City Hall, 611 E. Grand River. After the public-comment period, EPA will issue a document outlining the selected cleanup plan. The document will also address responses to public comments received during the comment period. The proposed plan, called an engineering evaluation/cost analysis, and other site-related documents are available for review at the Howell Carnegie District Library, 314 Grand River. Written comments must be postmarked by June 13, 1996, and sent to: Denise Gawlinski, P-19J, Office of Public Affairs, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Comments may also be sent through e-mail to gawlinski.denise@epamail.epa.gov. In August 1993, EPA conducted a limited cleanup at the site after repeated vandalism and accidents involving children occurred. After fencing the site, EPA conducted a site assessment and removed about 1,340 drums, tanks, and other containers of dangerous chemicals. Heavily-contaminated soil was also removed. The proposed cleanup plan will address the remainder of contamination at the site. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 13, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa92.htm Technical Contact: Steve Padovani (312) 353-6755 Media Contact: Susan Pastor (312) 353-1325 For Immediate Release: May 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA093 EPA TO HOLD HAGEN FARM OPEN HOUSE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) and Waste Management, Inc., is sponsoring an open house from 2-6 p.m., May 23, at the Hagen Farm Superfund site, County Highway A, Town of Dunkirk, WI. EPA, WDNR, and Waste Management representatives will be available to guide visitors through the ground-water treatment building as well as the source-control system on the grounds of the site. Casual attire is recommended. Refreshments will be provided by Waste Management. For more information, contact Susan Pastor, EPA community involvement coordinator, at (312) 353- 1325 or (800) 621-8431. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 13, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa93.htm Technical Contact: Gregory Carlson (312) 886-0124 Legal Contact: Jane Woolums (312) 886-6720 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: May 10, 1996 No. 96-OPA094 TWIN LAKES REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER SETTLES WITH EPA; AGREES TO PROVIDE CONSERVATION EASEMENT U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with Francis Stumpf, a Twin Lakes, WI real estate developer, on wetlands violations. Mr. Stumpf has agreed to pay a $2,000 fine and grant a conservation easement of 32 acres of wetlands next to Lake Elizabeth to the Twin Lakes Protection and Rehabilitation District. He also has drafted a management plan for the conservation easement and agreed to provide $2,000 to the district for site management. This agreement resolves an August 1991 administrative complaint issued to Mr. Stumpf for filling in a wetland that had been designated part of a primary environmental corridor by the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission. He has since restored the wetland. Wetlands include marshes, swamps, bogs, and similar areas between water and dry land. They are among the most environmentally beneficial types of areas, harboring unique soils and plants that provide food and habitat for fish and wildlife. They also provide erosion and flood control as well as recreation. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 13, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa94.htm Technical Contact: Ruth McNamara (312) 353-3193 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: May 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA096 EPA CITES NORTHERN STAR CO. FOR REPORTING VIOLATIONS; PROPOSES $60,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently filed an administrative complaint against Northern Star Co. (Minneapolis, MN) for not properly reporting the release of a hazardous substance. A $60,000 fine has been proposed. The complaint alleges that on July 13, 1995, 1,450 lb of anhydrous ammonia (14 times the minimum reportable quantity) was released into the environment from the company's Fifth Street facility. Northern Star failed to immediately notify the State emergency response commission (SERC) and National Response Center of this release, as required by law. In addition, the company was cited for failing to provide a written follow-up report of the incident to the SERC in a timely manner. Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act certain hazardous-substance releases must be immediately reported to the proper authorities. "Compliance with these reporting requirements is critical because local, State, and Federal authorities must have the necessary information to respond when a release occurs," said William Muno, director of the regional Superfund Division. "Public health, as well as the environment, is at stake." Northern Star uses anhydrous ammonia to manufacture fresh-frozen and dehydrated potato products. Anhydrous ammonia is a CERCLA hazardous substance. Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 78 separate complaints for hazardous-chemical releases, resulting in 47 settlements and $2.75 million in total fines. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa96.htm Media Contacts: Cheryl Allen (312) 353-6196 Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: May 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA097 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE MEETING TO BE HELD IN DETROIT The National Environmental Justice Advisory Council will meet in Detroit, MI, from May 29 through 31, at the Westin Hotel Renaissance Center. The Council consists of 25 representatives of community groups; industry; State, local, and tribal governments; and nongovernmental organizations. It was established to provide the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with information and comments from affected parties on environmental justice issues. The public is welcome to attend the council meeting as well as any of the subcommittee meetings. The subcommittees will discuss: enforcement of environmental laws, health and research, indigenous peoples, international environment, public participation, and waste and facility siting. The public is invited to comment on environmental justice issues on Wednesday, May 29, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and on Thursday, May 30, from noon to 1 p.m. Oral comments will be limited to 5 minutes. To register to comment or to receive a meeting agenda, contact Lena Schaye, PRC Environmental Management, Inc., by phone at (703) 287-8854 or fax at (703) 287-8910. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa97.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: May 16, 1996 No. 96-OPA098 MEDIA ADVISORY: REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR TO SPEAK ABOUT WATER QUALITY Regional Administrator Valdas V. Adamkus will speak about "Clean Water for the 21st Century: EPA's Reforms and Initiatives" on Monday, May 20, at 9:20 a.m., at "Minnesota Water ‘96" at the Minneapolis Convention Center, Grant Street and 2nd Avenue South. The water policy conference is sponsored by Minnesota Water Resources Research Center at the University of Minnesota. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa98.htm Technical Contact: Linda Hamsing (312) 886-6810 Legal Contact: Nicole Cantello (312) 886-2870 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: May 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA099 EPA CITES 3 COMPANIES FOR ASBESTOS VIOLATIONS AT A CHICAGO PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently filed a civil complaint (lawsuit) on its behalf against 3 companies for violating hazardous-air-pollution standards for asbestos at a Chicago public high school. The complaint was filed against M & O Environmental Co.; Luse Asbestos Removal Co., Inc.; and Carnow Conibear & Associates, Ltd., for violating asbestos standards at James H. Bowen High School, 2710 East 89th St. The alleged violations occurred during Summer 1991. M & O conducted an asbestos removal project for the school under contract to Luse, the general contractor. Luse was retained by the Public Building Commission of Chicago. The Commission retained Carnow to monitor the removal. EPA inspected the school in late August 1991 in response to complaints of several on-site workers. Asbestos was found strewn on the floor of the facility and between partition walls. EPA then issued an administrative order to M & O requiring cleanup of the asbestos. Several months after the removal project was completed, an Illinois Department of Health official found dry asbestos remaining on some of the school floors. EPA informed the company of the alleged violations and settlement discussions were initiated. Asbestos is a known cancer-producing agent which can cause mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) several years after exposure. The action was taken under authority of the Clean Air Act of 1990. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa99.htm Technical Contact: Linda Hamsing (312) 886-6810 Legal Contact: Rudy Tanasijevich (312) 886-4683 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: May 20, 1996 No. 96-OPA100 EPA CITES AMERICAN DECAL FOR AIR-POLLUTION VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has issued a notice of violation to American Decal & Manufacturing Co. for violating air-pollution control rules at the company's Chicago, IL, facility. EPA cited American Decal for not complying with regulations related to control of volatile organic material(VOM) which is a precursor of ozone (smog). The company prints and manufactures decals and stickers at its plant at 4100 West Fullerton Ave. American Decal is alleged to have failed to comply with certification, coating and ink testing, reporting and recordkeeping, and emission limitation requirements for the use of VOM in its production process. Ground-level ozone (smog) can cause breathing problems, asthma attacks, eye irritation, and stuffy nose. It can reduce lung function, resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed the aging of lung tissue. Smog can also damage trees and other vegetation and reduce visibility. The action was taken under authority of the Clean Air Act of 1990. American Decal has requested a conference to discuss the notice, and a meeting has been set for May 22, 1996. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa100.htm Technical Contact: Beth Reiner (312) 353-6576 Media Contact: Bri Bill (312) 353-6646 For Immediate Release: May 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA101 SEDIMENT SAMPLING NEAR VELSICOL SUPERFUND SITE TO BEGIN NEXT WEEK U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will soon begin sampling sediments from the Pine River and St. Louis Reservoir as part of a review of the Velsicol Chemical Superfund Site (St. Louis, MI) cleanup. Velsicol Chemical was added to the National Priorities List in 1982--which names abandoned or hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund. In 1984, the site was capped and a slurry wall was built to contain the contamination at the site. In addition, wells were installed to monitor water levels at the site. Contaminated sediments were left in the river and reservoir with the assumption that they would be covered by new, clean sediment. From 1936 to 1978, a variety of organic and inorganic chemicals--including the pesticide DDT--were manufactured at the 56-acre site. Some of the chemicals from the site were discharged to the Pine River and contaminated the sediments and fish. Fish advisories for the Pine River have been in effect since 1974. Starting next week, EPA and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality workers in boats will take about 75 samples from the river and reservoir to find out the current level of contaminants in the sediments. Additional work will be conducted this summer by the Velsicol Chemical Corp. including the replacement of on-site monitoring wells and a study of the landfill cap and slurry wall. An information repository for the site is located at T.A. Culter Memorial Library, 110 West Saginaw St., St. Louis. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa101.htm Technical Contact: Eugenia Chow (312) 353-3156 Media Contact: Susan Pastor (312) 353-1325 For Immediate Release: May 21, 1996 No. 96-OPA102 EPA PICKS FINAL CLEANUP PLAN FOR NATIONAL PRESTO SUPERFUND SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently signed a record of decision, with agreement by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, for the final cleanup plan at the National Presto Industries, Inc., Superfund site, Eau Claire, WI. This record of decision is the final document outlining EPA's third cleanup plan for the Presto site. This one deals with contaminated soils and ground water; two previous decisions addressed contaminated drinking water and on-site ground-water contamination. A contaminated lagoon is also being cleaned up under a separate agreement with National Presto. This plan includes: - Melby Road and East Disposal sites--install a soil vapor extraction system, remove "hot spots," and install a multi-layer cover over combined wastes from both sites at the Melby Road site; - Drainage Ditch 3--remove contaminated soil and combine it with waste at Melby Road; and - Dry Wells 2 and 5--remove contaminated soil and dispose of it in an off-site landfill. No further ground-water cleanup is planned at this time for Plumes 1-2, 3, 4, and 5 because significant cleanup work has been done. Plume 1-2 is being cleaned up by an air stripper at the nearby Eau Claire Municipal Well Field and an on-site pump-and treat-system. Plumes 3, 4, and 5 have been addressed through the permanent drinking-water supply provided to certain areas of Hallie in 1992. Also, an interim pump-and-treat system to prevent off-site contaminant movement was installed in 1994. EPA typically reviews its cleanups every 5 years. If the selected measures do not progress as anticipated, additional actions will be taken. "EPA believes these final steps will permanently clean up the contaminated soils on the Presto property," said Deputy Regional Administrator Michelle D. Jordan. "They also ensure that contaminated ground water will be cleaned up through the continued use of pump-and-treat systems already in place. The effectiveness of this cleanup plan will be tracked by long-term ground and surface-water monitoring." Copies of the decision and other site-related documents will be available for review at: Hallie Town Hall Chippewa Falls Public Library 957 Hagen Rd. 105 West Central St. Chippewa Falls, WI Chippewa Falls, WI An administrative record, containing information upon which the decision was based, is also available at the library. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa102.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312)353-6218 For Immediate Release: May 28, 1996 No. 96-OPA103 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: EPA ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR TO SPEAK AT ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE MEETING Steven A. Herman, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Enforcement and Compliance Assistance, will speak at the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council meeting at 8 a.m. on May 29 at the Westin Hotel Renaissance Center, Detroit. Reporters are welcome to attend any part of the council meeting, which will run from May 29-31. There will be two public comment periods: May 29 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and May 30 from 12-1 p.m. The council consists of 25 representatives of community groups; industry; State, local, and tribal governments; and nongovernmental organizations. It was established to provide EPA with information and comments from affected parties on environmental justice issues. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 29, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa103.htm Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: May 28, 1996 No. 96-OPA104 CLEANUP OF SALEM TOWNSHIP OIL SPILL CONTINUES U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 announced today that the cleanup of an oil spill from a Detroit Edison transformer in Salem Township, MI, is likely to continue for several more weeks. EPA's emergency response staff and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality are monitoring the cleanup which is being carried out by Detroit Edison. The first phase of the cleanup will recover spilled oil, which was found to contain traces of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). After the oil is cleaned up, residual PCB's will be removed from soil, sediment, and water. On May 18, there was an explosion and fire at the Edison Coventry substation on Tower Road in Salem Township, which led to the release of about 10,000 gallons of mineral oil into a series of drainage ditches. Testing showed the oil contained traces of PCB's, which were commonly used as insulation in electrical transformers. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: May 29, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa104.htm Technical Contact: Rebecca Frey (312) 886-4760 Media Contact: John Perrecone (312) 353-1149 For Immediate Release: April 2, 1996 No. 96-OPA056 CLEANUP TO CONTINUE AT KERR-MCGEE RESIDENTIAL AREAS SITE NEXT WEEK U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that cleanup at the Kerr-McGee Residential Areas Superfund site (West Chicago, IL) will resume next week. The announcement was made in West Chicago by William Muno, director of EPA's regional Superfund Division, with U.S. Representative Dennis Hastert, West Chicago Mayor Steven Lakics, and State officials. To date, 44 out of 140 contaminated properties have been successfully cleaned up and fully restored. More than 12,400 cubic yards of contaminated material were removed. Next week, workers will continue excavating contaminated soil, backfilling and restoring properties, and transporting waste to a disposal site in Utah. "This Superfund project is evidence of the progress that has been made, and EPA is committed to working with all of those involved to ensure that progress continues," said Muno. "Next week, the cleanup will resume, and we expect to make tremendous strides at the properties awaiting cleanup." The site is being cleaned under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund. Kerr-McGee Chemical Corp. is conducting the cleanup under EPA oversight. The Illinois Department of Nuclear Safety is assisting EPA. EPA is testing more than 1,200 properties and is continuing to identify contaminated properties. Residential properties were contaminated when radioactive materials from the Kerr-McGee factory were used as fill throughout West Chicago and parts of DuPage County. The site is one of four Superfund sites in West Chicago. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov) Last Updated: April 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa56.htm Technical Contact: Farro Assadi (312) 886-1424 Legal Contact: Robert Thompson (312) 353-6700 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 2, 1996 No. 96-OPA057 EPA REACHES AGREEMENT WITH KALAMAZOO REGIONAL PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL & MICHIGAN DEPT. OF MENTAL HEALTH; INCLUDES $50,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with Kalamazoo Regional Psychiatric Hospital and the Michigan Department of Mental Health on alleged air-pollution violations at a Kalamazoo (MI) facility they formerly owned. The agreement includes a $50,000 penalty. EPA cited the hospital and the department in June 1992 for exceeding Michigan limits for particulatematter emissions (fly ash, dust, smoke) at five coal-fired boilers. EPA said three of the smaller boilers have been replaced by natural-gas-fired boilers and the two other boilers have been refurbished to reduce emissions. Compliance with the federally-enforceable limits will cut annual particulate emissions by about 748 tons and sulfur dioxide emissions by some 350 tons. EPA said breathing high concentrations of these pollutants has been shown to worsen the condition of persons with heart and lung diseases. Sulfur dioxide may penetrate deep into the lungs, causing alterations in the lining of the lungs. The action was taken under authority of the Clean Air Act. EPA said the facility was sold to Western Michigan University in 1994. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 2, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa57.htm Technical Contact: William Jones (312) 886-6058 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA058 EPA: CLINTON COUNTY (OH) NOW MEETS HEALTH-BASED OZONE STANDARD U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that Clinton County, OH, now meets the health-based standard for the air pollutant ozone (smog). Clinton County is northeast of Cincinnati and southeast of Dayton. The health-based standard for ozone required by the Clean Air Act is 0.12 parts per million. The area exceeded this level in the past. EPA said the improvement in air quality is the result of controls on automobile emissions and the use of lower volatility fuel. Clinton County has a 10-year plan for keeping its ozone levels within the health-based standard. The plan requires the county to consider the impacts of future activities on air quality and to manage those activities, making whatever changes are needed to keep the air clean. "The State of Ohio and Clinton County have taken very important steps to improve the air quality for their citizens," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. "This is a significant accomplishment and we congratulate them." Ground-level ozone (smog) can cause breathing problems, asthma attacks, eye irritation, and stuffy nose. It can reduce lung function, resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed the aging of lung tissue. Smog also can damage trees and crops and reduce visibility. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa58.htm Technical Contact: Steve Rothblatt (312) 353-2211 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA059 EPA: NORTHEAST OHIO NOW MEETS HEALTH-BASED OZONE STANDARD U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today congratulated Northeast Ohio for meeting the health-based standard for the air pollutant ozone (smog). "The Northeast Ohio area has taken very important steps to improve the air quality for its citizens," said Regional Administrator Valdas V. Adamkus. "This is a significant accomplishment and we congratulate them." Adamkus said Northeast Ohio's achievement shows that community-based environmental protection is the best solution for environmental problems. The EPA Regional Adminstrator today signed the authorization for redesignation of Northeast Ohio to attainment for ozone. The health-based standard for ozone required by the Clean Air Act is 0.12 parts per million. The area exceeded this level in the past, but data gathered over the past 4 years indicates that Northeast Ohio is now within the standard. EPA said the improvement in air quality is due to the Federal Motor Vehicle Emissions Control Program, the 1992 Federal low-volatility-gasoline requirement, the automobile-inspection-and-maintenance program in Cuyahoga County, and controls on industry. Northeast Ohio also has a plan for maintaining good air quality for the next 10 years. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa59.htm Technical Contact: Linda Hamsing (312) 886-6810 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 353-3440 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA060 EPA CASE LEADS TO $450,000 PENALTY FOR B.F. GOODRICH FOR CLEAN AIR ACT VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that the B.F. Goodrich and the Geon companies have recently reached agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) for alleged violations of hazardous-air-pollutant standards at a Henry, IL, facility that makes polyvinyl chloride resin. The consent agreement includes a $450,000 penalty which will be paid by B.F. Goodrich. Goodrich was the owner and operator of the facility when the violations were alleged to have occurred, and Geon is the current owner and operator. DOJ filed a simultaneous civil complaint and settlement consent decree with B.F. Goodrich on March 29, 1996, on the EPA-referred case. The complaint alleged five types of violations of Federal vinyl chloride hazardous-air-pollutant emission standards: - non-emergency releases of vinyl chloride from pressure-relief devices on equipment at the facility; - excess emissions of vinyl chloride released during the final stages of production of polyvinyl chloride suspension-type resin; l failure to accurately test and measure vinyl chloride emissions released during production of dispersion resins; - release of excess emissions of vinyl chloride into the atmosphere during the manufacture of dispersion-type resins; and, - failure to inform EPA or the Illinois EPA of these excessive emissions. EPA said the alleged violations occurred during various time periods and at various intervals between July 1989 and August 1991. EPA said vinyl chloride is a known cancer-causing substance. Inhaled vinyl chloride has been shown to increase the risk of a rare form of liver cancer and has been associated with cancer of the brain, lung, and digestive tract in humans. The action was taken under authority of the Clean Air Act. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa60.htm Technical Contacts: Walter Francis (RCRA) (312) 353-4921 Katherine Keith (CAA) (312) 353-6956 Maynard Shaw (EPCRA) (312) 353-5867 Legal Contact: Jeffrey Cox (312) 353-3112 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA061 EPA CITES AMOCO OIL COMPANY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5, said today that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently filed a civil complaint on its behalf against Amoco Oil Co. for violations of Federal environmental statutes at Amoco's Whiting (IN) Refinery. The complaint cites Amoco for violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the Clean Air Act (CAA), and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). The complaint seeks a civil penalty of up to $25,000 per day of violation and injunctive relief for ongoing violations. Amoco and the government have entered settlement discussions and negotiations aimed at reaching an agreement in this matter. The alleged violations occurred at Amoco's Whiting Refinery located on approximately 1,400 acres adjacent to Lake Michigan in Lake County, IN. The Whiting Refinery is one of the nation's largest petroleum refineries, processing up to 405,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Between October 26 and November 19, 1992, EPA's National Enforcement Investigation Center (NEIC) conducted a compliance inspection for violations of various Federal environmental statutes at the Amoco Whiting Refinery. During the inspection, NEIC noted violations of RCRA, CAA, and EPCRA. The complaint alleges that Amoco committed multiple violations based on these statutes: RCRA Alleged illegal operation of a waste pile at the facility, including failure to obtain a post-closure care permit for the waste pile and failure to establish financial responsibility for the waste pile. The waste pile was used by Amoco to manage spent catalyst wastes at the refinery. In addition, the complaint alleges failure to properly make a hazardous-waste determination for an additional waste stream. CAA Alleged non-compliance with the Indiana State Implementation Plan by deficiencies in its volatile organic compound(VOC)leak detection and repair program. Fugitive VOC leaks from pipes and valves can be major sources of air pollution from refineries. Volatile organic compounds are precursors of ozone (smog) and Whiting, IN, is a severe nonattainment area for ozone. In addition, the complaint alleges that Amoco did not comply with Federal continuous emission monitoring requirements at its sulfur recovery unit and at 17 process heaters within the refinery. EPCRA Alleged failure to submit a timely Toxic Chemical Release Inventory Report (Form R) on the releases of ammonia during the 1991 calendar year to EPA and the State of Indiana. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 4, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa61.htm Technical Contact: Newton Ellens (312) 353-5562 Legal Contact: Susan Perdomo (312) 886-0557 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 5, 1996 No. 96-OPA062 EPA REACHES AGREEMENT WITH GREEN BAY (WI) DEVELOPER, CONTRACTOR ON CLEAN AIR VIOLATIONS; INCLUDES $2,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with Patrick Murphy and Ed Gersek, Inc., both of Green Bay, WI, on alleged violations of asbestos regulations under the Clean Air Act. The agreement includes a $2,000 penalty. EPA cited Murphy, a Green Bay developer, and Gersek, a Green Bay contractor, in November 1994 for failure to give timely notice of demolition of a building on a Green Bay property owned by Murphy. The alleged violations were discovered during an inspection made in response to a citizen complaint. Asbestos is a known cancer-producing substance which can cause mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) several years after exposure. "EPA is committed to enforcing the asbestos regulations to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, regional director of the Air and Radiation Division. "We will take the necessary steps to ensure that contractors comply with the regulations." (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 5, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa62.htm Technical Contact: Cindy Nolan (312) 886-6246 Media Contact: Don de Blasio (312) 886-4360 For Immediate Release: April 8, 1996 No. 96-OPA063 EPA TO START CLEANUP AT PHOENIX SUPERFUND SITE, BALDWIN, WI U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that it will begin cleanup within the month at the former Rosen/Phoenix Metals Superfund Site, Baldwin, WI. The removal procedure is expected to take about six months and cost about $1 million. The site, on the north side of the village, is a former battery recycling and disposal facility that operated from 1977 to about 1988. Lead is the principal contaminant on the property. EPA will remove soil from the site and any contaminated soil immediately adjacent to it. The soil will be mixed with cement to bind the lead and prevent further contamination. The hardened mixture then will be hauled to an EPA-approved landfill for disposal. EPA will continuously monitor the air for lead during removal procedures to ensure public safety. "I am pleased that we are able to get this removal under way," said William Muno, director of the regional Superfund Division. "EPA looks forward to working with the community and getting this site cleaned up." (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 8, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa63.htm Technical Contact: Byron Jones (312) 886-6768 Legal Contact: Robert Guenther (312) 886-0566 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: April 8, 1996 No. 96-OPA064 U.S. SETTLES WITH GREAT LAKES METALS CORP. FOR DISCHARGING POLLUTANTS INTO LAKE ERIE; INCLUDES $350,000 FINE The U.S. Government simultaneously sued and settled with Great Lakes Metals Corp., Euclid, OH, on March 28, 1996, for discharging pollutants into Lake Erie. The company paid a $350,000 fine. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, alleges that between June 1991 and December 1994, the company violated the Clean Water Act by discharging excess amounts of toxic pollutants, including copper and zinc, directly and indirectly into Lake Erie. The facility now discharges to the Euclid wastewater-treatment plant. In addition, the facility, now owned by PMX/Ohio, has demonstrated substantial compliance with permit requirements under the Clean Water Act for more than a year. The facility rolls and casts brass and copper products. The facility was originally built during World War II to manufacture casings for artillery shells. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa64.htm Legal Contact: Maria Gonzalez (312) 886-6630 Technical Contact: Russ Hart (312) 886-4844 Media Contact: Susan Pastor (312) 353-1325 For Immediate Release: April 15, 1996 No.96-OPA065 COURT ENTERS AGREEMENT FOR MOSS-AMERICAN SUPERFUND SITE CLEANUP The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin recently entered an agreement by the U.S. Government, on behalf of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the State of Wisconsin, and Kerr-McGee Chemical Corp. concerning the Moss-American Superfund site, Milwaukee, WI. The agreement, called a consent decree, outlines the cleanup to be done at the site. Under the agreement, former site owner Kerr-McGee will do the $25 million cleanup, pay $1 million for costs incurred by EPA through January 31, 1991, and pay all costs incurred after that date. Originally lodged in court in 1991, this agreement permitted Kerr-McGee to do "pre-design" work on the site such as removing creosote pools, or "free product," in soil just above the ground-water table; refining estimates on the extent of contaminated sediment in the Little Menomonee River; doing studies on impacts to the river corridor; testing the proposed treatment process; and developing a procedure to quickly measure polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH's) in soil and sediment. "The entering of this consent decree is important to the environment because it paves the way for Kerr- McGee to continue the cleanup of the Little Menomonee River," said Deputy Regional Administrator David Ullrich. "This ends a long-standing concern of EPA and the State." (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa65.htm Technical Contact: Jack Barnette (312) 886-6175 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA066 EPA VERIFIES CLEANUP OF YPSILANTI (MI) RADIOACTIVE SOURCE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has verified the cleanup of radiation contamination at Willow Run Airport, Ypsilanti, MI. EPA began work after it received a formal request for assistance, under the Federal Radiological Emergency Response Plan (FRERP), from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ). Cleanup work took place April 3-5, 1996. The cleanup was done by a private contractor with interagency oversight by EPA, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), and the MDEQ. Representatives of the MDEQ were on scene during the cleanup. At the request of EPA, through provisions of the FRERP, a representative of the NRC was also on scene to help verify cleanup. The contamination occurred on March 17, 1996, when a plane with an ice-detection device containing Strontium-90 on its fuselage made a belly landing, damaging the device. Radiation was spread on the outside of the plane and along the runway. The plane, a Russian-built Albatross L-39 jet trainer imported from the Czech Republic, was owned and flown by a resident of the Detroit area. At the time of the accident, maintenance workers discovered the international symbol for ionizing radiation on the side of the plane and a warning sign in Russian, which roughly translated as "danger radioactivity." The Federal Radiological Emergency Response Plan was developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and 16 other Federal agencies to respond to peacetime radiological emergencies. The plan makes EPA the lead Federal agency for unlicensed, or lost, radiation sources. Under the provisions of the FRERP, EPA requested assistance from the NRC, the Federal agency normally responsible for regulating Strontium-90. Cleanup oversight and verification testing was done by specialists from EPA and NRC regional offices in Chicago. "This is an excellent example of cooperation between the State of Michigan, the NRC, and EPA to protect public health and the environment," said David Kee, director of the regional Air and Radiation Division. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa66.htm Technical Contact: Ted Smith (312) 353-6571 Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: April 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA067 EPA SEEKS COMMENTS ON BELDING WAREHOUSE CLEANUP PLAN; PUBLIC MEETING APRIL 25 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 announced today the start of a 30-day public comment period on its proposed cleanup plan for the Belding Warehouse site (also known as H&K Sales), Belding, MI. The comment period, which begins April 15 and runs through May 14, 1996, will give the public an opportunity to let EPA know how it feels about the proposed plan to remove and safely dispose of radium-contaminated World War II military-aircraft dials that sit in a warehouse at the site. Because of the nature of the waste, EPA considered only two alternatives and is recommending transporting the contaminated gauges in drums to a facility, where they will be compressed before being disposed of at a low-level radioactive waste facility in Richland, WA. The estimated cost is $12.2 million. EPA will hold a public meeting to explain both of the alternatives and to accept oral and written comments on the proposed plan 7 p.m., April 25, Belding High School, Room 206, 850 Hall St., Belding. After the public comment period, EPA will issue a document outlining the selected cleanup plan. The document will also address responses to public comments received during the comment period. The proposed plan, called an engineering evaluation/cost analysis, and other site-related documents are available for review at the Alvah N. Belding Library, 302 E. Main St., Belding. Written comments must be postmarked no later than May 14, 1996, and sent to: Denise Gawlinski (P-19J) Community Involvement Coordinator U.S. EPA Region 5 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 E-mail: gawlinski.denise@epamail.epa.gov The site has been proposed for inclusion on the National Priorities List, which names abandoned or hazardous-waste sites eligible for cleanup under Superfund. Superfund is currently up for reauthorization by Congress. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa67.htm Technical Contact: Kenneth Bardo (312) 886-7566 Legal Contact: Felipe Gomez (312) 886-6833 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA068 EPA CITES CECOS INTERNATIONAL FOR HAZARDOUS-WASTE VIOLATIONS; INCLUDES $528,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently filed a civil complaint (lawsuit) on its behalf against CECOS International, Inc., for hazardous-waste violations at the company's Williamsburg, OH, facility. The complaint seeks a $528,500 penalty and alleges that CECOS violated a Federal consent order for hazardous-waste cleanup by failing to start up a leachate-pretreatment system by the required deadline of August 25, 1993. The pretreatment system was brought on line in February 1994. EPA and CECOS entered into the consent agreement in September 1987. The agreement required CECOS to take cleanup action at its the Williamsburg hazardous-waste-disposal facility, including installation and start up of the leachate-pretreatment system. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio under authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. CECOS and the government are currently in negotiations regarding this matter. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa68.htm Media Contact: Virginia Narsete (312) 886-4359 For Immediate Release: April 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA069 EPA TO ANNOUNCE PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF DIOXIN STUDY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will host a public meeting to discuss the preliminary results of its study of dioxin in Columbus-area soil on Wednesday, April 17, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Finland Middle School, 1825 Finland Ave., Columbus, OH. The soil sampling was carried out in December 1995 to assess the impact of dioxin emissions from the Columbus Waste-to-Energy facility. EPA representatives will present the preliminary results of the sampling and answer questions on the study. Copies of the preliminary report will be available at the meeting and, after April 17, by calling EPA Region 5's Environmental Hotline at (800) 621-8431 or EPA Community Involvement Coordinator Ginny Narsete at (312) 886-4359. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa69.htm Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA070 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that EPA's Assistant Administrator for Research and Development, Robert J. Huggett, is scheduled to visit East Liverpool, OH, Wednesday, April 24, 1996, to meet with citizens and to tour the Waste Technologies Industries (WTI) facility. Huggett will meet in the afternoon with East Liverpool area citizens in the Council Chambers of the East Liverpool City Hall, 126 West 6th St., to hear their concerns about the WTI facility. EPA's Risk Assessment Forum, which is responsible for coordinating the peer review of the draft comprehensive risk assessment for the WTI facility, is part of the Office of Research and Development. Hugget is recognized as an expert in environmental chemistry and ecosystem management. At different times, Huggett has served as an outside advisor to the EPA Administrator, as a member of the Agency's Science Advisory Board, and on the Committee on Reducing Risks. Huggett holds a doctorate in marine science and a master's degree in marine chemistry. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa70.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: April 15, 1996 No. 96-OPA071 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will announce the preliminary results of its study of dioxin in Columbus-area soil at a press conference at 2 p.m.on Wednesday, April 17, at the Ohio Department of Health, Room 101, 246 North High St., Columbus, OH. The soil sampling was carried out in December 1995 to assess the impact of dioxin emissions from the Columbus Waste-to-Energy facility. EPA representatives will present the preliminary results of the sampling and answer questions on the study. Copies of the preliminary report will be available at the press conference. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 15, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa71.htm Technical Contact: Carole Braverman (312) 886-2910 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: April 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA072 EPA ANNOUNCES RESULTS OF DIOXIN SOIL STUDY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced the preliminary results of its study of dioxin in Columbus-area soils. In December 1995, EPA, assisted by Ohio EPA, sampled soils near the Columbus Waste-to-Energy (WTE) facility. Preliminary results--based on a limited number of samples collected and analyzed--show levels of dioxin elevated over background in the immediate vicinity of the incinerator. Levels in samples taken at distances greater than 1,000 meters from the facility did not exceed background levels, that is, what would be expected to be found in soil in a typical urban area. EPA is planning to take additional samples to get a more detailed understanding of the distribution of dioxin in soil in the area. "Based on current data, we do not believe these soil dioxin levels will pose a significant health or safety problem in the future," said EPA toxicologist Dr. Carole Braverman. "It is important to keep in mind that dioxin in soil is not readily taken up by the roots of plants," continued Dr. Braverman. "And that dioxin in soil was not a significant contributor to the risks calculated by EPA in its screening risk assessment. Rather it is airborne dioxin that is adsorbed by the leaves in plants, bio-concentrated in livestock, and then eaten by humans in the form of milk and meat, that poses the greatest concern. With the incinerator closed, this air to leaf to human pathway is no longer present." Although the study limited its focus to soil concentrations, the results are scientifically significant. This study was not designed to reveal a complete picture of past and future health risks from dioxin from the incinerator. The greatest health risk from dioxin is through the food chain. Less significant risks are posed by exposure through inhalation and contact with or ingestion of soil. Although the incinerator is not currently operating, there exists the likely possibility that dioxin was deposited in soil as a result of past emissions. The soil study was carried out because it provided an opportunity to examine the potential for any additional exposure to the community. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa72.htm Technical Contact: Emmett Keegan (312) 886-0678 Legal Contact: Jan Loughlin (312) 353-3440 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA073 EPA CITES WORLD COLOR PRESS, INC., FOR CLEAN AIR ACT VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently filed a civil complaint (lawsuit) on EPA's behalf against World Color Press, Inc., for Clean Air Act violations at the company's Alden Press Division facility in Elk Grove Village, IL. The complaint seeks a civil penalty of $25,000 per day per violation and injunctive relief for ongoing violations. The complaint alleges that World Color Press violated construction permit limits and State air pollution rules. The violations began as far back as August 30, 1991. Construction permit limit violations include: - excess operating hours; - excess annual blanket wash usage; and, - excess volatile-organic-material emissions at one press. State air pollution violations include: - emitting more volatile-organic-material than allowed at five of nine presses; - failure to timely and properly test fountain solutions for volatile-organic-material content; and l operating a press without an operating permit. Alden Press was issued notices of violation in July 1993 and July 1994. Although the majority of violations have been addressed, the complaint seeks compliance for some remaining volatile-organicmaterial violations, where air pollution control devices are not working at the minimum efficiency. The Alden Press facility is located in Cook County, IL, which EPA has designated as a severe nonattainment area for ozone (smog). Volatile organic material, the pollutant involved in this case, is a precursor to ground-level ozone. Ozone can cause respiratory problems, particularly for the elderly and for those who have a respiratory condition. It can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, asthma, eye irritation, stuffy nose, reduced resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed up aging of lung tissue. It can also damage plants and trees and reduce visibility. Ozone is most prevalent in the summer. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, under authority of the Clean Air Act. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa73.htm Legal Contact: Robert Guenther (312) 886-0566 Technical Contact: James Entzminger (312) 886-4062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312) 886-1303 For Immediate Release: April 17, 1996 No. 96-OPA074 EPA CITES DEARBORN, MI COMPANY FOR REPORTING VIOLATIONS; PROPOSES $51,975 FINE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently filed an administrative complaint against Automotive Finishes, Inc., Dearborn, MI. The company was cited for not reporting information required by the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act to the proper authorities. EPA is proposing a $51,975 fine. Between 1991 and 1993, the company allegedly failed to provide the State emergency response commission, the local emergency planning committee, or the local fire department with material- safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals in a timely manner. The hazardous chemicals include: propylene oxide, alkyd resin (R-553 and R-511), solvent blend, reclaim thinner, microtalc, titanium dioxide, and acrylic resin (2013). The complaint also alleges the facility failed to provide the authorities with emergency and hazardouschemical inventory forms in a timely manner. According to Federal law, certain hazardous chemicals must be reported to government authorities. Also, owners or operators of facilities must prepare or have available material-safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals. William Muno, director of the regional Superfund Division, said: "Compliance with these reporting requirements is critical because local, State, and Federal authorities must have the necessary information to respond immediately to emergencies. Public health, as well as the environment, is often at stake." Since May 1989, EPA Region 5 has filed 75 separate complaints for hazardous-chemical releases and for not reporting chemical storage quantities, resulting in 43 settlements and $2.4 million in total fines. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa74.htm Technical Contacts: Cynthia Curtis (312) 353-6959 Michael Ribordy (312) 886-4592 Legal Contact: Mary McAuliffe (312) 886-6237 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA075 EPA CITES MARATHON OIL REFINERY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently filed a civil complaint (lawsuit) on its behalf against the Marathon Oil Co. for violations of Federal environmental statutes at Marathon's Robinson (IL) Refinery. The complaint cites Marathon for violations of the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The complaint seeks a civil penalty of up to $25,000 per day of violation. Marathon and the government have entered settlement discussions and negotiations aimed at reaching an agreement in this matter. CAA violations include excess particulate matter (dust), carbon monoxide, and opacity (amount of light obscured by particulates) from the fluid catalytic-cracking unit based on stack tests conducted in 1993. RCRA violations involve the land disposal of restricted waste and failure to adequately characterize waste to determine if it is restricted from land disposal. Breathing high concentrations of particulate matter has been shown to worsen the condition of persons with heart and lung diseases. Particulates can transmit toxic substances which can be absorbed by the lungs. Carbon monoxide can contribute to a variety of disorders. It can aggravate circulatory problems among the chronically ill and contribute to lesser symptoms in otherwise healthy persons. The complaint was filed with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa75.htm Technical Contact: Jack Barnette (312) 886-6175 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA076 EPA RECOGNIZES WISCONSIN AS PARTNER IN ENERGY-SAVING PROGRAM U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 announced today that it will present a certificate to the Governor of Wisconsin at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 1996, in the Governor's Conference Room, State Capitol, Madison (WI). The presentation will officially recognize Wisconsin's participation in EPA's Green Lights energy saving program. The Green Lights Program began in 1991 as a way to use emerging technologies to reduce energy use nationwide. It was designed to reduce pollution from fossil-fueled power plants, which contribute to global warming, acid rain, and smog formation. Since 1991, more than 2,000 organizations have joined Green Lights, including 22 State partners. Wisconsin and Ohio are currently the only State partners in Region 5. EPA said that, despite some of the lowest electrical rates in the country, Wisconsin has already been saving more than $4.5 million in energy costs annually through lighting efficiency upgrades over the past 4 years. Some 528 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions were avoided through these measures. This is the equivalent of taking nearly 74,000 cars off the road or planting 153,000 acres of trees every year. Wisconsin has signed all 50 million square feet of its State facilities into the Green Lights Program. Based on the average savings experienced by EPA's program partners, Wisconsin can expect to save at least another $7.5 million annually through further lighting efficiencies. This would reduce carbon dioxide emissions by another 857 million pounds, or the equivalent of taking an additional 120,000 cars off the road or planting another 250,000 acres of trees every year. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa76.htm Technical Contact: Ken Glatz (312) 886-1434 Media Contact: Derrick Kimbrough (312) 886-9749 For Immediate Release: April 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA077 EPA TO HOLD MEETING ON METAMORA SUPERFUND SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is holding its second public meeting on a proposed change to its cleanup plan for the Metamora Landfill Superfund site, Metamora, MI. The meeting will be at 7 p.m., April 23, at the Metamora Township Hall, 7301 West Dryden Rd., Metamora. Written and verbal comments on the proposed change will be accepted. EPA is proposing an amendment to the plan, which was approved in 1986 and calls for incineration of contaminated soils from Drum Area 1 and the Soil Staging Area. Recent studies indicated that there are other cleanup options for these soils that would also protect human health the environment. EPA is recommending moving the remaining contaminated soils in these areas to the south side of the landfill where they would be covered as part of the final cleanup. The estimated cost of this plan is about $380,000--much less than the original estimate of $29 million for off-site incineration. Written comments on the proposal must be postmarked by April 29 and sent to Derrick Kimbrough, P- 19J, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Comments may also be sent through e-mail to kimbrough.derrick@epamail.epa.gov. After the comment period, EPA will issue a document, called a Record of Decision Amendment, outlining the selected change to the original cleanup plan. A responsiveness summary, addressing public comments, will be attached to the amendment. For additional information, site-related documents may be reviewed at: Metamora Branch of the Lapeer Library 4024 Oak St. Metamora, MI Marguerite de Angeli Branch Library 921 West Nepessing St. Lapeer, MI (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa77.htm Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 For Immediate Release: April 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA078 EPA DELETES FOLKERTSMA SITE FROM SUPERFUND LIST U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is deleting the Folkertsma Refuse Superfund site (Walker, MI) from its National Priorities List (NPL) because the cleanup has been completed. The NPL is EPA's roster of the nation's most serious hazardous-waste sites, which are eligible for cleanup under the Superfund program. EPA, in conjunction with the State of Michigan, has determined that no further action is required at the Folkertsma site since the cleanup protects public health and the environment. The cleanup consisted of sediment excavation; an improved drainage system; a clay cover over the landfill; and long-term ground-water, drainage water and landfill gas monitoring. Further information on the site is available at: Kent County Public Library Walker Branch 4293 Remembrance NW Walker, MI (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa78.htm Technical Contact: Mark Pederson (312) 886-0448 Legal Contact: John Tielsch (312) 353-7447 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA079 EPA CITES TOTAL PETROLEUM FOR HAZARDOUS-WASTE VIOLATIONS; INCLUDES $325,693 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently filed a civil administrative complaint against Total Petroleum, Inc., for hazardous-waste violations at the company's Alma, MI, oil refinery. A $325,693 penalty is proposed. The complaint alleges that Total Petroleum violated Federal regulations by discharging hazardous waste to a surface impoundment between March 29 and August 22, 1994. Other alleged violations relate to the company's hazardous-waste training program, contingency plan, hazardous-waste determination, and manifested waste. "In 1993, the company generated 885 short tons of hazardous waste at its Alma refinery. EPA is committed to ensuring that hazardous wastes are disposed of at this facility in a way that protects human health and the environment," said Norman Niedergang, director of the regional Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. The action was taken under authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Total Petroleum has until May 6, 1996, to respond to the complaint and request a formal hearing. It may request an informal settlement conference anytime. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa79.htm Media Contact: Denise Gawlinski (312) 886-9859 MDEQ Contact: Pete Quackenbush (517) 373-7397 For Immediate Release: April 19, 1996 No. 96-OPA080 EPA, MDEQ SEEK COMMENTS ON LICENSES FOR MICHIGAN, WAYNE DISPOSAL; PUBLIC HEARING APRIL 23 AND OPEN HOUSE MAY 1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5, in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), are seeking public comments on draft operating licenses and permits for the Michigan Disposal Waste Treatment Plant and Wayne Disposal, Inc., Belleville, MI. EPA and MDEQ are proposing to issue licenses under Michigan Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act 451 and the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) to continue the operation of the companies' hazardous-waste storage and treatment facility and hazardous waste landfill at 59530 N. Interstate-94 Service Dr., Belleville. EPA and MDEQ are also proposing to approve the disposal of PCB-contaminated waste in Wayne Disposal's hazardous waste landfill under the Federal Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) and Michigan Act 451. Written comments on the proposals will be accepted through May 4. They should be sent to: Peter Quackenbush (for the joint operating license) MDEQ Waste Management Division Office 608 West Allegan P.O. Box 30241 Lansing, MI 48909 Denise Gawlinski (for the RCRA permit and TSCA approval) Office of Public Affairs, P-19J U.S. EPA Region 5 77 West Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604 Oral and written comments may also be submitted at two public meetings on April 23. The first will run from 4-6 p.m.; the second will begin at 7 p.m. and continue until everyone presents their comments. Both meetings will be at the Belleville High School, 501 West Columbia, Belleville. Two informal, openhouse- style sessions to answer questions will be held on May 1 from 4-6 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the high school. EPA and MDEQ will evaluate all comments before making a final decision. Copies of the draft licenses and permits are available for review at: MDEQ 38980 Seven Mile Rd. Livonia, MI Fred C. Fischer Library 167 Fourth St. Belleville, MI Van Buren Township Hall 46425 Tyler Rd. Belleville, MI (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 22, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa80.htm Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 19, 1996 No. 96-OPA081 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that EPA's Assistant Administrator for Research and Development, Robert J. Huggett, is scheduled to meet with the public from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 24, 1996, in the Council Chambers of the East Liverpool (OH) City Hall, 126 West 6th St. Huggett will give a brief update of the status of the peer review of the draft comprehensive risk assessment for the Waste Technologies Industries facility in East Liverpool and listen to the concerns of East Liverpool area citizens about WTI. EPA's Risk Assessment Forum, which is coordinating the peer review, is part of the Office of Research and Development which Huggett heads. While in East Liverpool, Huggett will tour the WTI facility and meet briefly with some local officials. Huggett is recognized as an expert in environmental chemistry and ecosystem management. At different times, Huggett has served as an outside advisor to the EPA Administrator, as a member of the Agency's Science Advisory Board, and on the Committee on Reducing Risks. Huggett holds a doctorate in marine science and a master's degree in marine chemistry. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 22, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa81.htm Technical Contact: Scott Cooper (312) 886-1332 Media Contact: Noemi Emeric (EPA) (312) 886-0995 Wynona Redmond (CHA) (312) 791-8513 For Immediate Release: April 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA082 EPA AND CHA ANNOUNCE CLEANUP AT ALTGELD GARDENS-MURRAY HOMES, CHICAGO, IL U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today that the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) will begin cleanup of PCB's at the Altgeld Gardens-Murray Homes, Chicago, IL, on Tuesday, April 23. EPA, with assistance from CHA and Illinois EPA, conducted sampling in and around the Dorothy Gautreaux Child Parent Center, the Altgeld Public Library, and the Garden Fast Foods to assess the impact of PCB's from leaking stored transformers that were removed from the site in 1984. Preliminary results--based on a limited number of samples collected and analyzed--show levels of PCB's elevated over background levels in the areas. Two rounds of sampling were conducted, wipe and soil samples. The wipe samples taken inside the Gautreaux Center were all below (1 microgram/100 centimeters squared) the Toxic Substance Control Act and Illinois Department of Public Health standards, which are 10 micrograms per 100 centimeters squared. Some soil samples taken did exceed background levels, with samples ranging from 0.268 to 24.0 parts per million (ppm). CHA will spend approximately $30,000 and will work with EPA to remove soil from the site and any contaminated soil immediately adjacent to it. The soil will be cleaned to 10 ppm with 10 inches of clean fill. The soil will be mixed to bind the PCB's and prevent further contamination. The mixture then will be hauled to an EPA-approved landfill for disposal. EPA will continuously monitor the air during removal procedures to ensure public safety. "I am pleased that we are able to get this removal under way," said Norman Neidergang, director of the regional Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. "EPA looks forward to working with the community and CHA in getting this site cleaned up." (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa82.htm Technical Contact: Farro Assadi (312) 886-1424 Legal Contact: Andre Daugavietis (312) 886-6663 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: April 23, 1996 No. 96-OPA083 EPA CITES WISCONSIN ELECTRIC POWER FOR AIR-POLLUTION VIOLATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has issued a notice of violation to Wisconsin Electric Power Co. for exceeding limits on sulfur-dioxide emissions at the company's Port Washington (WI) Power Plant. EPA said continuous emission monitoring from April 1994 through December 1995 shows that two boilers at the plant failed to meet sulfur-dioxide emission reduction requirements. The notice of violation was issued under the Clean Air Act of 1990. EPA said sulfur dioxide can irritate the respiratory system and damage the heart and circulatory system. Those most at risk include children and the elderly, or those with existing heart or respiratory conditions. Sulfur dioxide has also been linked to acid rain which can contaminate water and damage trees and other vegetation. Wisconsin Electric Power has requested a conference to discuss the notice, and a meeting has been set for April 24 at the EPA regional office in Chicago. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 23, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa83.htm Technical Contact: Jim Hahnenberg (312) 353-4213 Media Contact: Cheryl Allen (312) 353-6196 For Immediate Release: April 25, 1996 No. 96-OPA084 EPA EXTENDS COMMENT PERIOD FOR MANISTIQUE SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is extending through May 30 its public comment period on a proposed change to the cleanup plan for the Manistique River and Harbor Superfund Site, Manistique, MI. EPA is proposing to dredge all PCB-contaminated sediments from the river and harbor and dispose of them off site. Dredging will minimize long-term environmental risks in a protective and cost-effective manner. The estimated cost of this new dredging plan is approximately $6 million--which is about the same as the capping portion of the originally proposed plan. Written comments on the proposal must be postmarked by May 30 and sent to Cheryl Allen, P-19J, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Comments may also be sent through e-mail to allen.cheryl@epamail.epa.gov. After EPA reviews all public comments, a decision document called an Action Memorandum will be issued if the original cleanup plan is changed. A responsiveness summary, addressing public comments, will be attached to the document. For additional information, site-related documents may be reviewed at: Manistique Public Library 100 North Cedar, Room 31 Manistique, MI County Clerk's Office Schoolcraft County Court House 300 Walnut St. Manistique, MI Fact sheet about Manistique site ( 51kb, in Adobe Acrobat PDF format). (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 25, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa84.htm Technical Contact: Cindy Nolan (312) 886-6246 Media Contact: John Perrecone (312) 353-1149 For Immediate Release: March 5, 1996 No. 96-OPA035 EPA COMPLETES SUPERFUND CLEANUP IN HARVEY, IL U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently completed its asbestos cleanup of the Harvey GRQ, Inc., site (14600 South Wood, Harvey, IL). The 35-acre site is an abandoned industrial complex consisting of about 40 buildings with unrestricted access. The Wyman-Gordon Co. operated a stamping plant and other operations at the facility until about 1976. EPA's Emergency Response Team began its cleanup in November and since then has removed more than 28,600 linear ft of asbestos from piping inside the complex's buildings. EPA also removed about 2,400 cubic yd of loose asbestos from inside and outside the complex. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and has been linked to lung cancer. In addition, EPA removed and disposed of about 1,200 gallons of waste oil found at the site. The project cost about $1 million. EPA cleaned up the site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund. Superfund is currently up for reauthorization by Congress. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 6, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa035.htm For Immediate Release: March 4, 1996 No. 96-OPA036 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and the City of Chicago Heights will hold a media availability session on the Bisbee Linseed Co. site at 9:30 a.m., March 7, at 2010-2012 Butler St., Chicago Heights, IL. EPA and Chicago Heights Mayor Angelo A. Ciambrone will be available to answer questions on the start of cleanup activities at the site. For further information, please call John Perrecone, EPA, at (312) 353-1149. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 6, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa036.htm Technical Contact: Tony Rutter (312) 886-8961 Media Contact: Susan Pastor (312) 353-1325 For Immediate Release: March 5, 1996 No. 96-OPA037 EPA CHANGES CLEANUP PLAN FOR STOUGHTON CITY LANDFILL SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently authorized changes in the cleanup plan for the Stoughton City Landfill Superfund site, Stoughton, WI. A document called an explanation of significant differences outlines the changes made to the original plan approved in 1991. About 5,000 cubic yards of waste will be excavated from the edge of the landfill and nearby wetland and consolidated under a clay cover, or cap, instead of the 40,000 cubic yards originally proposed. "This change will minimize the volume of water managed, reduce the potential for odor generation, and conserve a large portion of the wetland," said William Muno, director of the regional Superfund Division. "The cost of the waste removal will also be greatly reduced." A copy of the explanation of significant differences document and other site-related information is available for review at: Stoughton Public Library Stoughton City Hall Stoughton Utilities Office 304 South Fourth St. 381 East Main St. 211 Water St. Stoughton, WI Stoughton, WI Stoughton, WI (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 6, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa037.htm Technical Contact: Steven Faryan (312) 353-9351 Media Contact: John Perrecone (312) 353-1149 For Immediate Release: March 7, 1996 No. 96-OPA038 EPA BEGINS CLEANUP OF HAZARDOUS WASTE AT BISBEE SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 announced today that cleanup of the former Bisbee Linseed Co. (2010-2012 Butler St., Chicago Heights, IL) has begun. From 1924 through the early 1980's, Bisbee manufactured linseed oil at the 9-acre site. The facility was abandoned and then managed by Serv U Warehousing, which rented out several of the buildings on site. Today, the abandoned site's 12 buildings are in poor condition and contain a number of hazardous wastes. The Chicago Heights Fire Department has responded to numerous arson fires at the facility since it was abandoned. Illinois EPA referred the site to EPA after it found a drum leaking hazardous waste. EPA's Emergency Response Team will remove the hazardous substances in drums, barrels, and buried and above-ground storage tanks. The substances include cyanide, flammable liquids, herbicides, PCB's, pesticides, mercaptan, and waste oil. In addition, workers will remove any loose asbestos from the buildings and dispose of any contaminated soil. EPA will then decontaminate the floors and walls of the buildings. "EPA is cleaning the site under the Superfund program, which allows the Agency to take quick action if hazardous materials could endanger public health or the environment," said William Muno, director of the regional Superfund Division. "EPA is also working with Chicago Heights officials on ways to possibly redevelop the property." Workers will wear protective clothing, including respirators, lightweight coveralls, rubber gloves, and rubber boots when dealing with chemical hazards. "The City of Chicago Heights welcomes the EPA undertaking that will remove an environmental threat to the health and safety of our citizens," said Chicago Heights Mayor Angelo A. Ciambrone. "EPA's Emergency Response Team has the cooperation of our city in this Superfund effort to clean up the Bisbee site." The cleanup is expected to be completed in about 6 months, at a cost of about $250,000. However, the project is not fully funded, and its completion depends upon EPA's 1996 budget, currently being reviewed by Congress. In addition, Superfund is currently being reviewed by Congress for reauthorization. Note to editors: A media-availability session will be held at 9:30 a.m., today, at the site. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 8, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa038.htm Technical Contact: William Buller (312) 886-4568 Legal Contact: Felipe Gomez (312) 886-6833 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: March 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA039 EPA, RHONE-POULENC REACH AGREEMENT; INCLUDES $178,343 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently reached agreement with Rhone-Poulenc Basic Chemicals Co. on alleged hazardous-waste violations at the company's Hammond, IN, plant. The agreement includes a $178,343 penalty. EPA cited Rhone-Poulenc in December 1994 for violating regulations that apply to facilities that burn hazardous waste as fuel in boilers and industrial furnaces. EPA said the company exceeded certified hazardous-waste feedstream rates, failed to perform hourly inspections during direct transfer of hazardous waste from railcars to the furnace, and failed to inspect associated equipment of the furnace. Facility records indicate that Rhone-Poulenc may burn up to 78,000 tons of hazardous waste in a year. "This action will help assure the safe management of hazardous waste burning at the facility," said Norman Niedergang, director of the regional Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. The Rhone-Poulenc plant generates, treats, stores, and disposes of hazardous waste. EPA inspects the plant every 6 months because it accepts hazardous waste from Superfund cleanup sites. The action was taken under authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 6, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa039.htm Technical Contact: Karen L. Bell (312) 353-8640 Legal Contact: Nina Zippay (312)353-6726 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: March 6, 1996 No. 96-OPA040 EPA REACHES AGREEMENT WITH UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN & ASBESTOS ABATEMENT, INC., ON CLEAN AIR VIOLATIONS; INCLUDES $5,500 PENALTY & ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has recently reached agreement with the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) and Asbestos Abatement, Inc. (Lansing, MI), for alleged violations of asbestos regulations under the Clean Air Act. The agreement includes a $5,500 penalty, and the University of Michigan will perform a supplemental environmental project that will consist of an asbestos awareness seminar for university employees at the Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn campuses. The seminar will also be open to general contractors who provide asbestos-related services to other public colleges and universities in surrounding cities, townships, and school districts. EPA cited the university and Asbestos Abatement in June 1992 for violating proper handling and recordkeeping procedures for asbestos, a hazardous air pollutant. Asbestos is a known cancer-producing agent which can cause mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer) and asbestosis (a lung disease) several years after exposure. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 6, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa040.htm Technical Contact: Phillip King 312) 353-9062 Media Contact: Heidi Valetkevitch (312)886-1303 For Immediate Release: March 8, 1996 No. 96-OPA041 EPA APPROVES ASBESTOS-TRAINING-PROGRAM ACCREDITATION FOR ILLINOIS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently approved Illinois' application for asbestos-training-program accreditation under Title II of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This approval gives Illinois the authority to: - accredit persons to perform asbestos inspection and abatement work in schools and public and commercial buildings; - conduct training that satisfies the requirements for accreditation; and - approve training-course providers to conduct training and accredit persons. EPA is granting full approval to Illinois for all five training disciplines: worker, contractor/supervisor, inspector, management planner, and project designer. "EPA applauds Illinois on the approval of their asbestos-training-and-accreditation program and looks forward to working with Illinois throughout its implementation," said Norman Niedergang, director of the Region's Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. In 1986, Congress enacted the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (or TSCA Title II) which mandated a regulatory program to address asbestos hazards in schools. Under the Act, the Asbestos Model Accreditation Plan (MAP) dealt with the mandatory training and accreditation of persons who would perform certain types of asbestos-related work in schools. In February 1994, the MAP was revised to require each State to upgrade its programs. Among the changes were expanded accreditation coverage to include public and commercial buildings and an increase in the minimum number of hours of training. Region 5 has now given full or partial approval to four of the six states it covers--Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Region 5 is working with the two other states (Minnesota and Ohio) to gain approval. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 8, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa41.htm For Immediate Release: March 8, 1996 No. 96-OPA042 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a press conference at 10 a.m., March 12, to announce the start of the Superfund cleanup of the Green Industries site, 3603 East Kemper Rd., Sharonville, OH. EPA Deputy Regional Administrator Michelle Jordan and Ohio EPA and Sharonville officials will be present. For further information, please call Heidi Valetkevitch, EPA, at (312) 886-1303. Directions: 75N to 275E, right/south on Route 42/Sharon Road, right/west on East Kemper Road. The site will be about 150 feet, on the left-hand side. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 11, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa42.htm Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: March 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA043 EPA TO START HAZARDOUS-WASTE CLEANUP OF GREEN INDUSTRIES SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 announced today that it will start an environmental cleanup at the Green Industries Corp. site (Sharonville, OH). Work will begin this month. The announcement was made at the site by EPA Deputy Regional Administrator Michelle Jordan with Ohio EPA and Sharonville officials. The site, located in an industrial and residential area, is a large abandoned electroplating facility contaminated with a number of hazardous wastes including corrosives, cyanide, flammable liquids, heavy metals, and solvents. EPA's Emergency Response Team will remove and dispose of more than 300,000 gallons of hazardous wastes remaining in deteriorating and potentially leaking vats and tanks and about 2,000 drums and small containers. EPA will then decontaminate the building's structure. In addition, workers will investigate and dispose of any contaminated soil found on the 9-acre property. EPA will also evaluate the sewer and storm-drain lines and the area's ground water for contamination. The site currently has a secure fence around it. The cleanup is expected to be completed in about 6 months, at a cost of up to $3 million. However, the project is not fully funded and its completion depends upon EPA's 1996 budget, currently being reviewed by Congress. "Once EPA's cleanup is completed, this property can once again be used for industrial purposes," said EPA Deputy Regional Administrator Michelle Jordan. "Unfortunately, the proposed cuts to EPA's budget-- especially the substantial cuts to the Superfund program--would seriously undermine the Agency's ability to clean up sites like Green Industries." Yesterday, in New Jersey, President Clinton unveiled the details of new tax incentives to encourage the redevelopment of polluted, industrial sites and called for bipartisan support for environmental protection. "This has for a long time not been a political issue in the traditional sense," he said. "America is indeed a much cleaner and healthier place after a generation of bipartisan commitment to cleaning up the environment." EPA is cleaning the site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund. Superfund is currently up for reauthorization by Congress. Fact sheet about Green Industries site (in Adobe Acrobat PDF format). (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 12, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa43.htm Technical Contact: Laura Evans (312) 886-0851 Media Contact: Derrick Kimbrough (312) 886-9749 For Immediate Release: March 12, 1996 No. 96-OPA044 EPA TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING ON J&L LANDFILL SITE U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a public meeting at 7 p.m., March 18, at the Rochester Hills City Hall Auditorium, 1000 Rochester Hills Dr., Rochester Hills, MI. The meeting will update the community on EPA's design activities at the J & L Landfill Superfund site. For further information, contact Derrick Kimbrough, Community Involvement Coordinator, Office of Public Affairs, P-19J, U.S. EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604; (312) 886-9749 or 1-800-621-8431. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 12, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa44.htm Technical Contact: Raymond Urchel (312) 353-6292 Legal Contact: Timothy Chapman (312) 886-6829 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: March 13, 1996 No. 96-OPA045 EPA FINES OWNER OF AURORA, IL, HOUSING COMPLEX $2,500 FOR VIOLATING SAFE DRINKING WATER REGULATIONS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 has fined Jennifer DeMarco, owner of Melrose Rental (formerly known as Pleasant Village Apartments) (1210 Jackson St., Aurora, IL) $2,500 for not monitoring the drinking-water supply of the complex at various times between 1991 and 1994. The housing complex receives its drinking water from a well. Because the system serves more than 25 people for at least 60 days a year it is considered a public water supply and must meet the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The operator of the system is required to monitor the safety of the system regularly and test for contaminants. The results must be reported to the State and the system's customers must be notified of any violations. "Ms. DeMarco has since made a good-faith effort to meet the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act and the system is currently in compliance with the law," said JoLynn Traub, director of the regional Water Division. "However, because drinking-water regulations are designed to protect public health and the system was out of compliance for several years, EPA has imposed a fine on the operator." (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 13, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa45.htm Technical Contact: Audrie Washington (312) 886-0669 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: March 13, 1996 No. 96-OPA046 EPA, OHIO EPA TO RECOGNIZE OHIO ENERGY SAVERS U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said it will be joined by Ohio EPA in a ceremony to recognize 14 Ohio organizations that are helping prevent air pollution by installing energyefficient products and technologies in their facilities. The ceremony will be Thursday, March 14, from 9:30 to ll a.m. at the J. Leonard Camera Center, 2050 Kenny Rd., Columbus, OH. The organizations being honored (Ohio Energy ALL-STARS) are members of EPA's Green Lights Program, a voluntary initiative to encourage the use of energy-efficient lighting technologies. Green Lights participants are finding that by installing energy-efficient lighting systems, they are cutting their electric lighting bills by more than half while maintaining--and often improving--lighting quality. The Ohio Energy ALL-STARS that have completed installation of energy-efficient lighting systems include: Continental Lighting Service, Inc.; Defiance City Schools; F & W Publications, Inc.; Fisher Titus Medical Center; Lima Memorial Hospital; Teron Lighting; Venture Lighting International; and White Castle Systems, Inc. The total kilowatts saved every year by these 8 Ohio Energy ALL-STARS is equivalent to taking 1,035 cars off the road or planting 2,119 trees. Six other Ohio Energy ALL-STARS that have recently joined the Green Lights Program will also be recognized. They include: East Cleveland City School District, Fairfield City School District, Hillard Electric Company, Kent State University Main Campus, Phoenix Earth Food Cooperative, and Worthington City School District. EPA said more than 2,000 organizations are participating in the Green Lights Program nationwide. They include small and large corporations, non-profit organizations, universities, hospitals, and Federal, State, and local governments. For more information on the Green Lights Program, call the Green Lights/Energy Star Hotline at (202) 775-6650, or write to Audrie Washington, Region 5 Coordinator, Green Lights and Energy Star Buildings Program (AE-17J), EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604. Green Lights information is also available from EPA's World Wide Web site at http://www.epa.gov/docs/GCDOAR/GreenLights.html. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 13, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa46.htm Technical Contact: George Hudak (906) 779-0665 Media Contact: Virginia Narsete (312) 886-4359 For Immediate Release: March 14, 1996 No. 96-OPA047 EPA TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING MARCH 20 ON METHANE GAS ISSUE IN KINGSFORD, MI U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a public meeting about the high levels of methane gas found in soil and residences in the Breen Ave. area of Kingsford, MI. The public meeting will be held at 7 p.m., March 20, at Kingsford City Hall, City Council Room, 305 S. Carpenter, Kingsford. EPA, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Michigan Public Services Commission, and City of Kingsford officials will be on-hand to update residents on the project and to answer questions. Senator Carl Levin (D-MI) alerted EPA of the problem after an explosion occurred in a house on Breen Ave., severely injuring the homeowner. The city installed gas probes in the area and is monitoring them regularly as well as conducting air monitoring in residents' basements. The exact source of the methane gas is unknown at this time. However, EPA and State and local agencies are investigating the source of the methane gas so that a long-term solution can be put in place. In January, EPA installed a soil-vaporextraction system to reduce the methane gas to safe levels. EPA's Emergency Response Team is conducting this work under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, commonly known as Superfund. The project is not fully funded, and its completion depends upon EPA's 1996 budget, currently being reviewed by Congress. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 14, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa47.htm Technical Contact: Jon Peterson (312) 353-1264 Media Contact: Cheryl Allen (312) 353-6196 For Immediate Release: March 18, 1996 No. 96-OPA048 EPA EXTENDS PUBLIC-COMMENT PERIOD ON CLEANUP PLAN FOR TRUE TEMPER/GENEVA CITY DUMP SITES UNTIL APR. 15; INFO SESSIONS MAR. 27 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 is extending the public-comment period on the cleanup plan to address portions of the True Temper Sports and Geneva City Dump Superfund sites, Geneva, OH. Comments are now being accepted through April 15, 1996. EPA considered six types of cleanup strategies for the sites' five major contaminated areas and is recommending the following cleanup plan at a cost of about $5 million: - About 1,745 cubic yards of chromium/nickel-sludge waste would be excavated from the lagoon area (south of North Avenue) and disposed of off-site. The area would be backfilled and reseeded. - About 85 cubic yards of oil and sludge waste would be removed from the concrete basin and pump station (north of North Avenue) and disposed of off-site. These structures would be demolished and disposed of off-site. New drainage pipes would be installed. - An estimated 23,300 cubic yards of PCB-contaminated soil in the former waste-oil disposal area and in the zinc/phosphate lagoon (north of North Avenue) would be removed and disposed of offsite. - About 69 55-gallon steel drums would be removed from the west edge of the Geneva City Dump and disposed of off-site. - Lead-contaminated soil (about 500 cubic yards) on the access road to the True Temper facility and about 208 cubic yards of waste in the copper/cyanide lagoon would be excavated and disposed of off-site. The area would be backfilled and the access road would be paved with asphalt. Comments on the plan, postmarked by April 15, 1996, should be sent to Cheryl Allen, P-19J, EPA Region 5, 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60604. Oral and written comments may also be submitted at two public availability sessions: 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., March 27, at Geneva Municipal Building Council Chamber, 44 North Forest, Geneva. After the public-comment period, EPA will issue a document outlining the selected cleanup plan. The document will also address responses to public comments received during the comment period. Copies of the cleanup plan (called an engineering evaluation-cost analysis), a fact sheet summarizing the plan, and other site-related documents are available for review at the Geneva Public Library, 117 West Main St. In the absence of a continuing resolution or a budget for EPA, the availability sessions may have to be canceled at the last minute and rescheduled. If they are canceled, an announcement will be provided to area radio and television stations on March 26, 1996. You may also call Nancy Zikmanis, Ohio EPA, at (216) 963-1160 or (800) 686-6330 on March 26, 1996, for a final determination. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 18, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa48.htm Technical Contact: Julie Beckman (312) 886-6063 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: March 19, 1996 No. 96-OPA049 EPA, IDNS AWARD COMMENDATION TO QUAD CITIES OFFICIAL U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 and the Illinois Department of Nuclear Safety (IDNS) have awarded a special commendation to Thomas E. Dickey, a city health inspector from East Moline, IL, for his efforts in promoting radon-resistant new construction. The award was made March 18, 1996, at a Healthy Home Workshop sponsored by EPA, IDNS, and the DuPage and Kane County (IL) health departments and held at the Kane County Judicial Center in St. Charles, IL. For the past three years, Dickey has been one of EPA's cooperative partners in promoting radon-resistant new construction techniques in his community. As a result of his efforts, approximately 47 homes in East Moline have been built with radon-resistant techniques. Dickey was successful in persuading his city to offer a $150 rebate to builders who incorporate EPA's model standards for radon-resistant new construction. Since he initiated this innovative strategy, he has been a national advocate in raising the public's awareness of radon and in promoting radon-resistant homes. At a recent National Environmental Health Association training session on indoor air quality that Dickey participated in, he provided "Radon Resistant Home" t-shirts to the class. He also obtained enough donated construction materials from several companies to enable five homeowners to have their homes built radon-resistant. Dickey's certificate of commendation reads: "For his dedication and outstanding contributions to the radon programs of the Illinois Department of Nuclear Safety and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. His innovative efforts in promoting radon-resistant new construction have contributed significantly to protecting the health of people across Illinois and the nation." For more information on Thomas Dickey's radon resistant home program, you may call the City of East Moline Health Department at (309) 752-1510. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 20, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa49.htm Technical Contact: Karla Auker (216) 522-7261 Media Contact: Virginia Narsete (312) 886-4359 For Immediate Release: March 25, 1996 No. 96-OPA050 EPA TO HOLD INFO SESSIONS ON NORTH KINGSVILLE DRUM SITE MARCH 28 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold two informal public availability sessions on the North Kingsville Drum site (Conneaut, OH) Thursday, March 28, from 3 to 5:30 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m., at Fire Hall Station #4, 359 North Amboy Rd., Conneaut. During the first session, EPA representatives will meet with residents to gather information for its investigation into who is responsible for contamination at the site. At the second session, EPA will give a brief presentation on the current status of the site and answer questions. EPA's preliminary investigation of the site showed the presence of hazardous wastes, including lead and mercury. The site is in a wooded area northwest of the intersection of Gore Rd. and Maple Rd. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 25, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa50.htm Technical Contact: Cora Helm (312) 353-6844 Legal Contact: Sherry L. Estes (312) 886-7164 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: March 21, 1996 No. 96-OPA051 EPA, DANA CORP. REACH AGREEMENT; INCLUDES $80,000 PENALTY U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 recently reached agreement with the Victor Products Division of Dana Corp. on alleged hazardous-waste violations at a Churubusco, IN, facility formerly owned by the company. The agreement includes an $80,000 penalty and Dana's commitment to properly close the facililty and provide financial assurance. Dana manufactured rubber seals and sealants for the automobile industry at the facility before selling it in 1985. EPA cited Dana in April 1991 for failing to notify the buyer of hazardous-waste regulations and for failing to demonstrate financial assurance for closing the facility and financial responsibility for liability. The agreement was reached following the decision of an administrative law judge who decided Dana was responsible for the violations. "EPA is committed to ensuring that hazardous waste facilities are closed in a manner that will protect future generations from any hazardous-waste threat," said Norman Niedergang, director of the regional Waste, Pesticides, and Toxics Division. The action was taken under authority of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 22, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa51.htm Technical Contact: Jacqueline Nwia (312) 886-6081 Legal Contact: Jane Woolums (312) 886-6720 Media Contact: William Omohundro (312) 353-8254 For Immediate Release: March 27, 1996 No. 96-OPA052 EPA SAYS GRAND RAPIDS (MI) NOW MEETS OZONE STANDARD; PROPOSES REDESIGNATION U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 said today it is proposing to change the designation of the Grand Rapids (MI) area from moderate nonattainment to attainment for ground-level ozone (smog). EPA said the Grand Rapids area, comprised of Kent and Ottawa counties, has met EPA's health-based standard for ozone for the past 4 years and the area's air quality has improved to a level that is protective of public health and the environment. The improvement in air quality is due to reductions in emissions of chemicals that cause ozone. Reductions were achieved through controls on industrial and auto emissions. Continued reductions of ozone-forming emissions are expected in the Grand Rapids area over the next 10 years, but the State of Michigan will carry out more control measures if there are future violations of the ozone standard caused by Grand Rapids. EPA said additional efforts in the Chicago (IL), Milwaukee (WI), and Gary (IN) areas to cut ozonecausing emissions will also contribute to maintenance of the ozone standard in the Grand Rapids area. The health-based standard for ozone required by the Clean Air Act is 0.12 parts per million. Ground level ozone can cause breathing problems, reduced lung function, asthma, eye irritation, stuffy nose, reduced resistance to colds and other infections, and may speed up aging of lung tissue. Smog can also damage plants and trees and reduce visibility. EPA will publish information about this decision and seek public comments in the Federal Register. EPA will publish a final action at a later date. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 28, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa52.htm Technical Contact: Allen Melcer (312) 886-1498 Legal Contact: Nicole Cantello (312) 886-2870 Media Contact: Phillippa Cannon (312) 353-6218 For Immediate Release: March 28, 1996 No. 96-OPA053 EPA ISSUES DISPOSAL PERMITS TO ENVOTECH U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 today announced that it has issued two permits to Envotech Ltd. for the construction and operation of two hazardous waste disposal wells near Milan, MI. The 5-year permits only apply to the disposal of wastewater from the Arkona Road landfill. The permits do not allow the company to accept outside commercial waste for disposal. The effective date of the permits is March 28, 1996, and they will expire 5 years from that date. Local government agencies, environmental groups, and residents had appealed to the Environmental Appeals Board (EAB) to try to stop EPA from issuing the permits. On February 15, the EAB ruled that EPA had acted properly in issuing the permits. However, it directed EPA to require Envotech to certify that it would carryout the waste minimization plan described in the permit application. In accordance with that ruling, Envotech has provided that certification. Envotech must also receive a permit from the State of Michigan before it can begin constructing the wells. "Before the wells may be used, Envotech must submit data from the construction of wells and subsequent testing to EPA," said JoLynn Traub, director of the regional Water Division. "If the data show that the site is unsuitable, the wells will be plugged." The injection zone will be about 3,700 feet deep and injected wastewater will be confined between layers of rock which will prevent it from entering drinking water aquifers. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 28, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa53.htm For Immediate Release: March 28, 1996 No. 96-OPA054 NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS: KERR-MCGEE MEDIA AVAILABILITY SESSION APRIL 2 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 will hold a media availability session to kick-off the start of this year's continued cleanup of the Kerr-McGee Residential Areas Superfund site (West Chicago, IL) at 10 a.m., April 2, in the auditorium of the West Chicago Community High School, 326 Joliet Rd. U.S. Congressman Dennis Hastert, EPA and State officials, and West Chicago Mayor Steven Lakics will be present. For further information, please call John Perrecone at (312) 353-1149. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: April 1, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa54.htm Media Contact: Derrick Kimbrough (312) 886-9749 For Immediate Release: March 28, 1996 No. 96-OPA055 EPA BEGINS OIL CLEANUP OF LAKESIDE REFINING CO. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 announced today that cleanup of Lakeside Refining Co. (Kalamazoo, MI) has begun. The 50-acre site is an inactive refinery and bulk-storage plant for fuel oils. A portion of the site contains petrochemical processing and refining equipment, but the process of refining crude oil at the plant stopped long ago. The site contains 350,000 to 400,000 gallons of oil and oily water in an on-site lagoon and another 400,000 to 450,000 gallons of oil and oily water in above-ground storage tanks on the property. Past spills at the facility have released oil into the soil, ground water, and Davis Creek, a tributary of the Kalamazoo River about 1.5 miles from the site. The Kalamazoo River then empties into Lake Michigan. There are also wetlands on the site. EPA's Emergency Response Team will remove and dispose of the liquid and sludge oil in the on-site lagoon, storage tanks, and soil. Workers will wear protective clothing, includingrespirators, lightweight coveralls, and rubber gloves and boots when dealing with chemical hazards. EPA is cleaning the site under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. This act (contained in the Clean Water Act) addresses oil discharges and the threat of oil discharges to the navigable waters and adjoining shorelines of the United States. The cleanup is expected to be completed by September, at a cost of about $3 million. (kelley.jeff@epamail.epa.gov ) Last Updated: March 28, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/96opa55.htm EPA Educational Grants in Illinois $4,696 to American Lung Association of Metropolitan Chicago (1440 West Washington, Chicago), to offer training to health-care providers on how to reduce the prevalence and severity of asthma among low-income minorities. $4,358 to Eugene Field Chicago Public School (7019 North Ashland), to work with the Chicago Academy of Sciences to educate fourth through eighth grade teachers about the school's Great Lakes curriculum entitled, Lake Links. Workshops will focus on issues that are relevant to the local Lake Michigan ecosystem and will engage teachers in water quality testing. 4,650 to George Pullman Chicago Public School (11113 S. Forrestville, Chicago) to teach the student body about local environmental issues in southeast Chicago and develop a schoolwide conservation plan. Staff, parents, and the community will participate in action projects with the students related to water quality, recycling, toxic emissions, and gardening. $5,000 to Illinois Environmental Education Advocacy Consortium (2060 North Clark Street, Chicago), to refine a pilot training workshop that the organization just developed for in-service environmental education providers and offer it to nonformal educators statewide. The workshop will cover environmental education pedagogy, state learning standards, assessment, and EE resources. An outcome of the workshop will enable nonformal educators to incorporate the latest environmental education developments into programs they offer to Illinois classroom teachers. $5,000 to Regional Office of Education #40 (220 North Broad Street, Carlinville), to provide educator training and follow-up networking sessions to 15 rural districts and eight private schools on H2O Below, an interdisciplinary groundwater education program. Teachers will learn how to conduct a Well History survey and test water quality. Teachers will also learn how to use Beaver Dam State Park and McCully Heritage Project as outdoor learning labs. News Release 96OPA-210 Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/opa210fs.htm EPA Educational Grants in Indiana $5,000 to Clarksville Riverfront Foundation (P.O. Box 741, Jeffersonville), to conduct a five-week interdisciplinary environmental education program at the Falls of Ohio Interpretive Center State Park, and National Wildlife Conservation area. The program will involve fifteen teachers and 150 students from school districts in Indiana and Kentucky. Teachers will participate in the two-day workshops and then lead a week-long experience for students using curriculum materials Clarksville developed under a previous EPA grant. $4,500 to Heritage Hills Middle School (North Spencer County School Corporation, P.O. Box 416, Lincoln City), to train its teachers about the delivery of thematic instruction related to environmental issues, and engage students in research and hands-on activities. Parents and community members will join students in the design of an outdoor teaching lab to be developed on the forest area of the school campus. News Release 96-OPA211 Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/opa211fs.htm EPA Educational Grants in Michigan $5,000 to Allegan Intermediate School District (310 Thomas Street, Allegan),to teach students about the local watershed and municipal and wastewater treatment systems by engaging them in water quality testing. Once students gather and analyze the data with the local village and Department of Natural Resources, students will present the information to the community at large through local forums. $5,000 to Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District (2525 Third Avenue South, Escanaba), to conduct a multi-cultural natural resource residential camp for African American, Native American, and Pacific Islanders to teach math and science and encourage the pursuit of environmental careers. Hands-on problem solving exercises will be led by natural resource professionals at the Hiawatha National Forest, Clear Lake Education Center, and the Michigan Technological University campus. $5,000 to Glencairn Elementary School (939 N. Harrison, East Lansing), to educate its teachers on groundwater, wetlands, and watersheds. Along with their 225 elementary students, the teachers will monitor and protect the school's wetland and use it as the training ground for hands-on education. $5,000 to The Greening of Detroit (Whittier Towers, 415 Burns Drive, Detroit), to initiate a train-the-trainer program known as Treekeepers, which will assist community residents and volunteers in reforesting and revitalizing the empowerment zone in Detroit. Once trained, the Treekeeper teams will work closely with neighborhood groups to select, plant, and maintain tree stock on public lands. $5,000 to Michigan Technological University, Regional GEM Center (1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton), to offer various professional development opportunities to formal and nonformal educators in the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. These opportunities include: one-day awareness workshops focused on cross-curriculum integration of existing water education resources; a one-week in-depth, hands-on workshop in water sampling, including chemical and biological water assessment and computer technology work; and, a mini-grant program so workshop participants can purchase supplies to transfer their knowledge to the classroom. $6,450 to U-SNAP-BAC, Inc. (11101 Morang, Detroit), to organize and participate in two-day environmental negotiation seminars on Detroit's eastside. Seminars will teach participants how to negotiate with financial institutions, developers, and state and local governmental agencies on residential, commercial, and industrial redevelopment of brownfields and other urban sites. These model seminars will employ an innovative role-play technique and include a feedback tool that enables groups to monitor their negotiation behaviors and evaluate progress. USNAP- BAC will describe the process of planning and offering these seminars in its final product so that other communities can offer similar programs. News Release 96-OPA212 Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/opa212fs.htm EPA Educational Grants in Minnesota $5,000 to Bell Museum of Natural History (University of Minnesota, 10 Church Street, S.E., Minneapolis), to provide professional development opportunities on environmental issues such as wetlands, soils, and habitats for teachers in 10 urban, alternative schools of Minneapolis. Workshops will employ object-based learning and will be followed up with class visits by museum educators to help teachers transfer materials and teaching strategies to the classroom. $5,000 to Dakota County Environmental Education Program (821 Third Street, Suite 100, Farmington), to enable the program to support Project WET teacher workshops by providing and disseminating resource materials throughout the county. The environmental education coordinator will develop water history trunks and purchase materials that educators can use after they attend Project WET workshops. Dakota County will also work to connect teachers interested in water quality education with city staff working on water quality and natural resource issues. $4,820 to Minneapolis Public Schools (807 Northeast Broadway, Minneapolis), to enhance teacher effectiveness in the teaching of science at Lincoln Fundamental, a public elementary school in a federally designated enterprise community. Along with parent and community volunteers, Lincoln's staff will be trained to design and establish a natural environment on the school grounds. Once trained, the teachers will lead their students through hands-on experiences in beautifying school grounds. News Release 96-OPA213 Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/opa213fs.htm EPA Educational Grants in Ohio $4,525 to Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center (CVEEC) (P.O. Box 222, Peninsula), to offer teacher-education workshops for 300 elementary and middle school teachers in northeastern Ohio on ecosystem protection, biodiversity, and water quality issues in the Cuyahoga River watershed. The workshops will be based on the center's newly developed inquiry-based curriculum. Workshops will prepare teachers to bring their students to CVEEC for participation in a 4-day residential environmental education program. $4,786 to Glendale Habitat Discovery Garden, Inc. (400 West Glendale Avenue, Bedford), to work with Glendale Primary School to improve and expand the current land lab on school grounds. The organization will also work with the Bedford City school district to integrate environmental education materials into the school's curriculum. The focus of Glendale's hands-on education program, which targets staff and PTA members as well as students, will be on biodiversity and sustainability. $23,954 to University of Akron, Departments of Chemical and Civil Engineering, (Akron), to develop and offer a new environmental design curriculum that gives engineering students practical field experience. The curriculum will present a realistic case study about a small urban company in northeast Ohio and will teach students how to design a pollution prevention and waste remediation plan for the company. It is designed so that students can continue to work on the curriculum as they progress through their undergraduate degree. The university hopes to promote environmental careers through the program and will share the course framework with other schools. $5,000 to University of Cincinnati, School of Planning/DAAP (P.O. Box 210073, Cincinnati), to integrate the topic of environmental justice throughout its workshops on habitat, waste, environmental health, and water. Workshops are targeted at elementary teachers, camp counselors, and youth program directors who work with innercity children in Cincinnati. In addition to highlighting a multitude of environmental education resources, the workshop will require participants to critically examine local environmental justice issues. News Release 96-OPA214 Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/opa214fs.htm EPA Educational Grants in Wisconsin $24,696 to Bad River Mashkisibi Tribal School, Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa (P.O. Box 39, Odanah), to integrate Native American culture into already existing watershed curriculum; offer a high school ecology course; and deliver educator training. Students will engage in field work and action-oriented projects from an Ojibwe cultural perspective. Tribal elders will relay values through storytelling and contribute to the curriculum, which will help students in northern Wisconsin to protect their environment. $4,340 to Cable Natural History Museum (P.O. Box 416, Cable), to work with high school biology teachers at Drummond High School to co-teach a course entitled ?Environmental Issues and You.? During the course, students will research, design, and produce a traveling exhibit about regional aquatic environmental issues, such as Lake Superior coastal wetlands. In addition, students will develop accompanying curriculum resources. $3,225 to Milwaukee School of Engineering (1025 North Broadway, Milwaukee), to integrate an environmental engineering education module into Upward Bound, a program the school currently offers to disadvantaged high school students. The school's key objective is to help students understand the importance of environmental issues and how they affect the quality of their present and future lives. In addition, the school hopes to spark the students' interest in environmental careers by taking them on field trips to local landfills and wastewater treatment plants. News Release 96-OPA215 Last Updated: October 9, 1996 URL: http://www.epa.gov/region5/news96/opa215fs.htm