Proposed Hrs Documentation Record

HRS DOCUMENTATION RECORD--REVIEW COVER SHEET

Name of Site: Black River PCBs

Date Prepared: March 2010

Contact Persons:

Site Investigation: Region 2 Site Assessment Team 2 Weston Solutions, Inc. Edison, NJ

Documentation Record: Dennis Munhall (212) 637-4343 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency New York, NY

Scott T. Snyder, CHMM (732) 417-5812 Weston Solutions, Inc. Edison, NJ

Pathways, Components, or Threats Not Scored

Surface Water: The Surface Water Migration Pathway Drinking Water and Environmental Threats were not scored because the Human Food Chain Threat produces an overall score above the minimum required for the site to qualify for the National Priorities List. In addition, there are no surface water intakes along the target distance limit.

Ground Water: The Ground Water Migration Pathway is not scored because the pathway does not contribute significantly to the site score.

Soil Exposure: The Soil Exposure Pathway is not scored because it does not contribute significantly to the site score.

Air: No samples were collected to characterize the Air Migration Pathway; therefore, there is no documentation of an observed release. The Air Migration Pathway is not scored because it does not contribute significantly to the site score.

This page has been intentionally left blank. HRS DOCUMENTATION RECORD

Name of Site: Black River PCBs Date Prepared: March 2010

EPA ID No.: NYN000206296

EPA Region: 2

Street Address of Site*: End of Hewitt Drive, Village of West Carthage, Town of Champion, NY 13619

County and State: Jefferson County, New York

General Location in the State: East of Watertown (northern tier of state)

Topographic Maps: Copenhagen, NY, Deferiet, NY, and Carthage, NY

Latitude*: 43° 59′ 3.37” North (43.9842694°) Longitude*: 75° 37′ 39.91″ West (-75.6277527°)

Site Reference Point: North corner of Carthage/West Carthage Water Pollution Control Facility property

[Figures 1, 2; Ref. 3, pp. 1-2; 4, p. 1; 5, p. 1; 6, p. 1; 7, p. 2]

* The street address, coordinates, and contaminant locations presented in this Hazard Ranking System (HRS) documentation record identify the general area where the site is located. They represent one or more locations EPA considers to be part of the site based on the screening information EPA used to evaluate the site for NPL listing. EPA lists national priorities among the known "releases or threatened releases" of hazardous substances; thus, the focus is on the release, not precisely delineated boundaries. A site is defined as where a hazardous substance has been "deposited, stored, placed, or otherwise come to be located." Generally, HRS scoring and the subsequent listing of a release merely represent the initial determination that a certain area may need to be addressed under CERCLA. Accordingly, EPA contemplates that the preliminary description of facility boundaries at the time of scoring will be refined as more information is developed as to where the contamination has come to be located.

Scores

Ground Water Pathway Not Scored Surface Water Pathway 96.06 Soil Exposure Pathway Not Scored Air Pathway Not Scored

HRS SITE SCORE 48.03

WORKSHEET FOR COMPUTING HRS SITE SCORE BLACK RIVER PCBS

S S2

1. Ground Water Migration Pathway Score (Sgw) Not Scored (from Table 3-1, line 13)

2a. Surface Water Overland/Flood Migration Component 96.06 9,227.52 (from Table 4-1, line 30)

2b. Ground Water to Surface Water Migration Component Not Scored (from Table 4-25, line 28)

2c. Surface Water Migration Pathway Score (Ssw) 96.06 9,227.52 Enter the larger of lines 2a and 2b as the pathway score.

3. Soil Exposure Pathway Score (Ss) Not Scored (from Table 5-1, line 22)

4. Air Migration Pathway Score (Sa) Not Scored (from Table 6-1, line 12)

2 2 2 2 5. Total of Sgw + Ssw + Ss + Sa 9,227.52

6. HRS Site Score Divide the value on line 5 by 4 and take the square root 48.03

SURFACE WATER OVERLAND/FLOOD MIGRATION COMPONENT SCORESHEET BLACK RIVER PCBS

SURFACE WATER OVERLAND/FLOOD MAXIMUM VALUE MIGRATION COMPONENT VALUE ASSIGNED Factor Categories & Factors DRINKING WATER THREAT

Likelihood of Release

1. Observed Release 550 550 2. Potential to Release by Overland Flow 2a. Containment 10 not scored 2b. Runoff 25 not scored 2c. Distance to Surface Water 25 not scored 2d. Potential to Release by Overland Flow 500 not scored (lines 2a [2b + 2c]) 3. Potential to Release by Flood 3a. Containment (Flood) 10 not scored 3b. Flood Frequency 50 not scored 3c. Potential to Release by Flood 500 not scored (lines 3a x 3b) 4. Potential to Release (lines 2d + 3c) 500 not scored

5. Likelihood of Release (higher of lines 1 and 4) 550 550

Waste Characteristics

6. Toxicity/Persistence * not scored 7. Hazardous Waste Quantity * not scored

8. Waste Characteristics 100 not scored

Targets

9. Nearest Intake 50 not scored 10. Population 10a. Level I Concentrations ** not scored 10b. Level II Concentrations ** not scored 10c. Potential Contamination ** not scored 10d. Population (lines 10a + 10b + 10c) ** not scored 11. Resources 5 not scored

12. Targets (lines 9 + 10d + 11) ** not scored

13. DRINKING WATER THREAT SCORE 100 not scored ([lines 5 x 8 x 12]/82,500)

* Maximum value applies to waste characteristics category. ** Maximum value not applicable

SURFACE WATER OVERLAND/FLOOD MIGRATION COMPONENT SCORESHEET BLACK RIVER PCBS

SURFACE WATER OVERLAND/FLOOD MAXIMUM VALUE MIGRATION COMPONENT VALUE ASSIGNED Factor Categories & Factors HUMAN FOOD CHAIN THREAT

Likelihood of Release

14. Likelihood of Release (same as line 5) 550 550

Waste Characteristics

15. Toxicity/Persistence/Bioaccumulation * 5.00E+08 16. Hazardous Waste Quantity * 100

17. Waste Characteristics 1,000 320

Targets

18. Food Chain Individual 50 45 19. Population 19a. Level I Concentrations ** 0 19b. Level II Concentrations ** 0.03 19c. Potential Human Food Chain Contamination ** not scored 19d. Population (lines 19a + 19b + 19c) ** 0.03

20. Targets (lines 18 + 19d) ** 45.03

21. HUMAN FOOD CHAIN THREAT SCORE 100 96.06 ([lines 14 x 17 x 20]/82,500)

* Maximum value applies to waste characteristics category. ** Maximum value not applicable

SURFACE WATER OVERLAND/FLOOD MIGRATION COMPONENT SCORESHEET BLACK RIVER PCBS

SURFACE WATER OVERLAND/FLOOD MAXIMUM VALUE MIGRATION COMPONENT VALUE ASSIGNED Factor Categories & Factors ENVIRONMENTAL THREAT

Likelihood of Release

22. Likelihood of Release (same as line 5) 550 550

Waste Characteristics

23. Ecosystem Toxicity/Persistence/Bioaccumulation * not scored 24. Hazardous Waste Quantity * not scored

25. Waste Characteristics 1,000 not scored

Targets

26. Sensitive Environments 26a. Level I Concentrations ** not scored 26b. Level II Concentrations ** not scored 26c. Potential Contamination ** not scored 26d. Sensitive Environments (lines 26a + 26b + 26c) ** not scored

27. Targets (line 26d) ** not scored

28. ENVIRONMENTAL THREAT SCORE 60 not scored ([lines 22 x 25 x 27]/82,500)

29. WATERSHED SCORE (lines 13 + 21 + 28) 100 96.06

30. SURFACE WATER OVERLAND/FLOOD 100 96.06

MIGRATION COMPONENT SCORE (Sof)

SURFACE WATER MIGRATION PATHWAY 100 96.06 SCORE (Ssw)

* Maximum value applies to waste characteristics category. ** Maximum value not applicable

REFERENCES

Reference Number Description of the Reference

1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Hazard Ranking System, Final Rule. Federal Register, Volume 55, No. 241, pp. 51532-51667. December 14, 1990. [138 pp.]

2. EPA. Superfund Chemical Data Matrix (SCDM). Downloaded from http://www.epa.gov/superfund/sites/npl/hrsres/tools/scdm.htm on March 30, 2009; with attached Appendices B-I (Hazardous Substances Factor Values), B-II (Hazardous Substance Benchmarks), and C (Hazardous Substance Synonyms Report). January 2004. [53 pp.]

3. EPA. Superfund Information Systems, CERCLIS Database, Black River PCBS: Site Information. Downloaded from http://cfpub.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0206296 on November 3, 2009 and Envirofacts Warehouse, Facility Detail Report: Carthage/West Carthage WPCF. Downloaded from http://oaspub.epa.gov/enviro/fii_query_dtl.disp_program_facility?pgm_sys_id_in=NY002 on November 2, 2009. [3 pp.]

4. U.S. Department of the Interior Geological Survey (USGS). Copenhagen Quadrangle, New York, 7.5 Minute Series (Topographic). 1942. [1 map]

5. USGS. Deferiet Quadrangle, New York, 7.5-Minute Series (Topographic). 1949, photorevised 1982. [1 map]

6. USGS. Carthage Quadrangle, New York, 7.5-Minute Series (Topographic). 1943, photoinspected 1980. [1 map]

7. Europa Technologies and Google. Google Earth™ 2009: Directions, End of Hewitt Drive / Carthage/West Carthage STP. November 2, 2009. [2 pp]

8. Environmental Data Resources (EDR). Certified Sanborn® Map Report, Climax Manufacturing, 30 Champion Street, Carthage, NY 13619, Inquiry Number: 2325320.3s. September 24, 2008. [11 pp.]

9. EDR. Certified Sanborn® Map Report, Metro Paper Industries of NY Inc., 695 W. End Ave., Carthage, NY 13619, Inquiry Number: 2325316.3s. September 24, 2008. [8 pp.]

10. New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). Fishing and Canoeing the Black River in Jefferson, Lewis, and Oneida counties, official maps and guide. Undated. [11 pp.]

11. Islands International Tourism Council. Black River, New York – Throw Caution To The Wind. Downloaded from http://www.blackriverny.com/articles-history.html, on July 1, 2009. [4 pp.]

12. Rotola, Joseph, EPA. Letter to Pete Taylor, NYSDEC; with attached reference. April 13, 2007. [6 pp.]

13. WESTON Region 2 Site Assessment Team 2 (SAT 2). Site Logbook No. SAT2.121.001, Black River PCBs, NYN000206296; with attached photo documentation. September 23, 2008 to July 8, 2009. [56 pp.]

14. EDR. The EDR Radius Map™ Report with GeoCheck®, Metro Paper Industries of NY Inc., 695 W. End Ave., Carthage, NY 13619, Inquiry Number: 2325316.2s. September 25, 2008. [454 pp.]

15. EDR. The EDR Radius Map™ Report with GeoCheck®, Climax Manufacturing, 30 Champion Street, Carthage, NY 13619, Inquiry Number: 2325320.2s. September 24, 2008. [228 pp.]

REFERENCES (continued)

Reference Number Description of the Reference

16. Garabedian, Bruce, et al., NYSDEC. Black River Sediment Assessment, Summary of July 15-18, and September 10, 2002 Sampling Results. May 2004. [61 pp.]

17. NYSDEC. Final Report, Eastern Lake Ontario Drainage Basin Sediment Study (excerpts). February 2000. [7 pp.]

18. Pensak, Mindy, EPA. Memorandum to Nick Magriples, EPA, Subject: Black River, PCB Contaminated Sediment; with attached references. June 28, 2006. [9 pp.]

19. Luckey, Frederik, EPA (on behalf of NYSDEC). Final Report, Evaluation of Toxic Contaminants in West Carthage/Carthage Municipal Wastewaters, Summary of August 1998 and November 1999 Sampling Results. September 2001. [41 pp.]

20. Snyder, Scott, WESTON. Sampling Trip Report, Black River PCBs. June 25, 2009. [25 pp.]

21. Arnone, Russell, EPA. E-mail correspondence with Dennis Munhall, EPA, et al., Subject: Validated data for the Black River PCB site under CLP Case # 38691, SDG # B5PK5, B5PM3; with attached references. July 10, 2009. [60 pp.]

22. Cody, Jeffrey and Julee Johnson. Papermaking in the North Country, An Architectural and Historical Survey, Volume 1, Jefferson County (excerpts). March 1986. [94 pp.]

23. EPA. Basic Information: Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB). Downloaded from http://www.epa.gov/waste/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/about.htm, on July 13, 2009. [2 pp.]

24. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). NIOSH Hazard Review, Carbonless Copy Paper (excerpts). December 2000. [8 pp.]

25. Bourbon, John, EPA Division of Environmental Science and Assessment (DESA). E-mail correspondence with Scott Snyder, WESTON, Subject: EPA Region 2 DESA Laboratory Report: Black River PCBs Site; with attached Data Report. August 4, 2009. [20 pp.]

26. Sellers, Karen M., TestAmerica, Inc. Letter to Scott Snyder, WESTON, Re: TestAmerica Project Number: G9F230286, P/O Contract: 0067688 AOP: 47106-000 1.01.1589; with attached analytical results. July 15, 2009. [1,226 pp.]

27. EPA. Quick Reference Fact Sheet EPA 540-F-94-028: Using Qualified Data to Document an Observed Release and Observed Contamination. Office of Emergency and Remedial Response. November 1996. [18 pp.]

28. Novak, Ronald J., NYSDEC. Letters to Scott Snyder, WESTON, Re: FOIL Request #225 – Climax Manufacturing, Carthage, New York and FOIL Request #223 – Metro Paper Industries of NY, Carthage, New York. October 6, 2008. [2 pp.]

29. Hudson River - Black River Regulating District. Contact Us. Downloaded from http://www.hrbrrd.com/contactus.html, on June 27, 2008; with attached reference. [2 pp.]

REFERENCES (continued)

Reference Number Description of the Reference

30. Snyder, Scott, WESTON. Project Note to Black River file, Subject: Estimated Discharge at Sediment Sample Location BR-SED07; with attached references. September 10, 2009. [9 pp.]

31. AWARE Environmental Inc. and C&S Design Build, Inc. Voluntary Program, Remedial Investigation and Interim Action Work Plan, for Carthage Machine Company, Carthage, New York (excerpts). July 1997, revised December 1997. [3 pp.]

32. EPA, DESA, Monitoring and Assessment Branch. Standard Operating Procedures for Field Activities (excerpts). December 2006. [21 pp.]

33. EPA. USEPA Contract Laboratory Program, Statement of Work for Organic Analysis, Multi-Media, Multi-Concentration, SOM01.1 (excerpts). May 2005. [14 pp.]

34. EPA. USEPA-540-R-08-01, National Functional Guidelines for Superfund Organic Methods Data Review, (excerpts). June 2008. [6 pp.]

35. Whitewater Challengers. Whitewater Rafting on the Black River, Watertown, New York, Thousand Island Region NY. Downloaded from http://www.whitewaterchallengers.com/black/black-whitewater.asp, on July 16, 2009. [5 pp.]

36. Yang, Yunru, WESTON. E-mail correspondence with Scott Snyder, WESTON, Subject: Black River PCB site data. July 27, 2009. [1 p.]

37. Erickson, Mitchell D., Argonne National Laboratory. Analytical Chemistry of PCBs (Second Edition) (excerpts). Published by Lewis Publishers, 1997. [8 pp.]

38. EPA. Mid-Atlantic Risk Assessment, Freshwater Sediment Screening Benchmarks. Downloaded from http://www.epa.gov/reg3hscd/risk/eco/btag/sbv/fwsed/screenbench.htm on October 27, 2009; with attached reference. [6 pp.]

39. Ameristar™ and EDR. Chain of Ownership Report Combo for Parcel Identification Number: 86-32-1-78 3, 695 W. End Ave., Carthage, NY 13619-1040, Order ID: 89-200-1-7725. October 2, 2008. [10 pp.]

40. Ameristar™ and EDR. Chain of Ownership Report Combo for Parcel Identification Number: 86.40-1 3.401, 30 Champion St., Carthage, NY 13619-1156, Order ID: 89-200-1-7727. October 8, 2008. [9 pp.]

41. Kay, Deborah P, et al., EPA DESA. Standard Operating Procedure, Total Organic Carbon-Sediments, SOP #: C-88 (Revision # 2.1). January 31, 2009. [14 pp.]

42. Ferretti, James A, et al., EPA DESA. Standard Operating Procedure, Grainsize Hydrometer Method, SOP #: Bio-8.3 (Revision # 2.1). February 13, 2009. [23 pp.]

43. Snyder, Scott, WESTON. Project Note to Black River PCBs file, Subject: Form Is for diluted samples B5PL6DL and B5PM1DL; with attached references. January 11, 2010. [5 pp.]

44. Karras, George, EPA Hazardous Waste Support Section (HWSS). SOP NO. HW-37/Aroclor, Validation of Data, USEPA Contract Laboratory Program Statement of Work for Organic Analysis of Low/Medium Concentration of Aroclor Organic Compounds SOM01.2 (Rev 1). August 13, 2007. [24 pp.]

SS-Site Summary

SITE SUMMARY

The Black River PCBs site (CERCLIS ID No. NYN000206296) in Jefferson County, New York, consists of consists of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-contaminated wastewater discharge from the Carthage/West Carthage Water Pollution Control Facility [i.e., the sewage treatment plant (STP)] and possibly other historic discharges from paper mills and other industry in the villages of Carthage and West Carthage [Figures 1, 2; Ref. 3, p. 1; 7, pp. 1-2; 16, p. 1; 19, pp. 1-2]. An observed release of PCBs by direct observation and chemical analysis is documented by STP effluent samples collected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) in 1997 and sediment samples collected by EPA in June 2009, respectively [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20; 21, pp. 2-8, 10, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 46-48, 54, 56-58, 60]. Based on the results of the NYSDEC wastewater sampling and the EPA sediment sampling, a zone of contamination extends from the probable point of entry (PPE) at the Carthage/West Carthage STP, across the Black River to contaminated sediment sample location BR-SED19, and downstream to contaminated sediment sample BR-SED07, a length of approximately 0.5 mile [Figures 1 and 2]. The site location includes the geographic coordinates of 43º 59' 3.37" north latitude (43.9842694º) and 75º 37' 39.91" west longitude (-75.6277527º) [Figure 1; Ref. 5, p. 1; 7, pp. 2]. The Black River flows out of the foothills of the western Adirondack Mountains and runs for approximately 114 miles across the Tug Hill Plateau, discharging into eastern Lake Ontario [Ref. 10, pp. 1-2]. Due to the river’s change in elevation while draining the plateau, and the resulting waterfalls and strong current, the Black River was dammed and harnessed for water power and industrial use along most of its lower course during the 1800s [Ref. 10, pp. 1-2; 22, pp. 14, 76]. Historical information indicates that tanneries, paper mills, and other industries have operated along the Black River in the Villages of Carthage and West Carthage since the 1890s [Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 22, pp. 7-9, 11, 14-16, 30-32, 65, 69, 75-76]. Two active paper mills, one inactive paper mill, a machine shop, the Carthage/West Carthage STP, and a hydroelectric power plant are currently located along the Black River in the Villages of Carthage and West Carthage [Figure 2; Ref. 12, p. 2; 13, pp. 4 8, 38-39, 42-43; 14, pp. ES1, ES4, ES9, ES12, Overview Map 2325316.2s; 15, pp. ES1, Overview Map 2325320.2s]. Figure 1 shows the segment of the Black River under consideration.

During the mid-1980s, Canadian researchers monitoring Lake Ontario detected the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) at the mouth of the Black River and in the tissue of fish caught in the area [Ref. 12, p. 3; 16, p. 1]. Subsequent studies by NYSDEC attempted to identify possible sources [Ref. 16, pp. 1-54; 17, pp. 1-7; 18, pp. 1-9; 19, pp. 1-34]. One of these studies, conducted from September 1996 to September 1997, identified the presence of PCB-contaminated sediments downstream of the STP [Ref. 17, pp. 3-7; 18, pp. 1-2].

A follow-up study conducted by the NYSDEC in 2002 identified the presence of PCBs within a sediment depositional area downstream of the STP at concentrations up to 610 parts per million (ppm) [Ref. 12, pp. 3-4; 16, pp. 1, 4, 22]. The highest PCB concentrations were detected in samples collected at depths ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 feet (50-80 centimeters) below the surface of the sediment mound [Ref. 16, pp. 4, 6, 21-22]. Radiometric dating of the samples indicates that sediment at this depth was deposited in the 1950s and 1960s [Ref. 16, pp. 6, 15-19]. The highest PCB concentration detected in samples collected from the mound surface was 11 ppm (Station 5-4) [Ref. 16, pp. 21-22; 18, p. 3]. A review of the NYSDEC sediment data performed by the EPA Biological Technical Assistance Group concluded that the concentrations of PCBs detected in the surface sediment exceeded ecological risk assessment screening values (0.032 ppm to 0.2 ppm) [Ref. 18, p. 3; 38, p. 6]. Additional sediment samples collected away from the depositional area encountered PCBs at varying concentrations [Ref. 12, p. 4; 16, pp. 2-6, 21-22]. A sediment sample collected 0.25 mile upstream (Station 5C-1) contained 1.5 ppm of PCBs at a depth of 0.5 to 1 foot (15-30 cm) [Ref. 12, p. 4; 16, pp. 2-6, 22]. Station 5C-1 lies across and downstream of the PPE (i.e., the STP) and upstream of the most distant contaminated downstream sediment sample (BR-SED07) collected by EPA in June 2009 [Figure 2; Ref. 16, pp. 2-4; 21, pp. 6, 11, 21]. Samples collected from 1 to 1.5 miles upstream (Stations 6A, 6B, and 8-2) did not indicate the presence of PCBs [Ref. 12, p. 4; 16, pp. 2, 22]. EPA background sediment sample BR-SED43, collected upstream of the STP and at a similar distance upstream of the sediment depositional area as Stations 6A, 6B, and 8-2, also indicated non-detect values for PCBs [Figure 2; Ref. 16, p. 2; 21, p. 46]. A downstream sediment sample indicated a PCB concentration of 1.9 ppm (Station 4A-1) (depth: 0.5 to 1.5 feet) at a distance of between 2 to 3 miles [Ref. 12, p. 4; 16, pp. 2, 4, 21].

In addition to the sediment sampling activities, there were efforts to identify the sources of sediment contamination [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 6]. In August 1988, the NYSDEC collected influent wastewater samples from key points along the Carthage and West Carthage sewer systems [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 6]. Passive in-situ contaminant extractor samplers (PISCES) were positioned to measure dissolved PCBs and pesticides originating from the Village of Carthage, the Village of West

SS-Site Summary

Carthage, and the two active paper mills [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 6]. According to the NYSDEC report, the analytical results indicated that the two paper mills were the dominant source of PCBs entering the STP [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 20]. PISCES results indicated that PCB concentrations in paper mill wastewaters ranged from 12 to 77 nanograms per liter (ng/L), compared to 2 to 21 ng/L for village (i.e., Carthage/northeast Carthage and northeast Carthage alone) wastewaters [Ref. 19, p. 2]. The sampling point for the Village of West Carthage wastewaters also included wastewaters from the upgradient Climax mill; PCB levels for West Carthage alone were not quantified/extrapolated based on the combined flow PCB levels and flow rates versus mill-only levels and flow rates [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 6]. Based upon recorded wastewater flow rates, the paper mills contributed approximately 90 percent of dissolved PCB loadings to the STP [Ref. 19, p. 2]. NYSDEC attributed the presence of the PCBs in part to residual contamination of the two mills’ process equipment and plumbing [Ref. 19, p. 2-3, 20]. PCBs, formerly present in ink microcapsules in carbonless copy paper, were historically released when converting recycled paper to pulp, subsequently contaminating wastewaters [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 20].

Follow-up sampling conducted in 1999, consisting of whole-water grab samples to measure particulate and dissolved- phase, PCBs, indicated greater concentrations in village wastewaters (12 to 32 ng/L) than the two paper mills (2 to 5 ng/L) [Ref. 19, pp. 2-3]. The decrease in concentrations was attributed to upgrades, removal of old paper-making equipment, and effluent flow reductions at one mill, and improved pre-treatment and suspended solids removal at the other [Ref. 19, pp. 2-3].

From June 16 through 18, 2009, EPA collected sediment samples from the Black River [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26 29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20]. The samples were collected in an upstream, or southerly, direction from the Village of Herrings boat launch to approximately 1,670 feet north of the Route 126 bridge [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20]. Sediment samples were collected from known or suspected sediment depositional areas, from the Village of Herrings boat launch upstream, or south, to the PCB-contaminated sediment depositional area identified by NYSDEC [Figure 2; Ref 13, pp. 19-23, 44-48; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11, 12]. Sediment samples were also collected near the east and west banks of the Black River at approximately 500-foot intervals where attainable, beginning 500 feet upstream of the sediment depositional area and ending approximately 1,670 feet north of the Route 126 bridge [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 26-29, 31-33, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 3-5, 9, 16, 20]. Samples obtained upstream of the STP, past and present paper mills, and the other industrial facilities, were collected to evaluate background conditions [Figure 2; Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 13, pp. 32-33; 20, pp. 5, 9]. Due to the presence of obstructions, many of the proposed samples adjacent to the two active paper mills could not be collected [Ref. 13, p. 24; 20, p. 3]. Sediment samples were obtained at a depth of 0 to 6 inches using a self-tripping bottom sampling dredge [Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-45, 47-52, 54-55; 20, pp. 3-5]. The sediment samples were analyzed for Target Compound List (TCL) Aroclors through the EPA Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) and for dioxins and furans through a non-CLP laboratory [Ref. 13, pp. 24, 30, 34; 20, pp. 1, 3, 11-13, 16-17, 20-21, 24-25; 21, pp. 1-2, 10-11, 13-14, 35-38; 26, pp. 3, 5].

Sample analytical results indicate the presence of PCBs in Black River sediments at elevated concentrations (i.e., significantly above background concentrations) downstream of the Carthage/West Carthage STP and the historical and present locations of paper mills and other industrial facilities [Figure 2; Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 21, pp. 2-8. 21, 26 27, 29, 31, 39, 46-48, 54, 56-58, 60]. Elevated concentrations of PCBs have been detected in sediment samples within and upstream of the sediment depositional area identified by NYSDEC [Figure 2; Ref. 13, p. 23; 16, pp. 2, 6, 21-22; 20, p. 9; 21, pp. 2-8, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39]. Dioxins/furans analyses indicate the presence of these compounds at concentrations significantly above background in the furthest downstream sediment sample collected at the Village of Herrings boat launch [Figure 2; Ref. 26, pp. 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26]. However, dioxins/furans are not known to be attributable to the STP discharge, which was not sampled for these compounds [Ref. 19, p. 8]. The segment of the Black River under consideration, from immediately downstream of the existing paper mills to the Village of Herrings boat launch, is fished for human consumption [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 11-12, 24-26, 28, 30, 34-36, 43, 50-51]. The sediment samples collected by EPA in June 2009 document an observed release by chemical analysis of PCBs and actual contamination of this fishery [Ref. 1, p. 51620; 2, p. BI-10].

The Black River, downstream of the Village of Herrings boat launch to its mouth at Lake Ontario, supports a wide range of recreational activities [Ref. 10, pp. 9-10; 11, pp. 1-3; 35, pp. 1-2]. Public fishing areas, waterfront parks, and whitewater canoeing and kayaking are popular uses of the river downstream of the site [Ref. 10, pp. 9-10; 11, pp. 1-3; 35, pp. 1-2]. The Lower Black River includes fish ladders to assist migratory fish species with upstream migration past

SS-Site Summary

dams [Ref. 10, p. 10].

For the Black River PCBs site, EPA is evaluating the Surface Water Migration Pathway overland/flood migration component and the human food chain threat [Ref. 1, pp. 51604-51605]. The source under consideration is PCB- contaminated wastewater discharge from the Carthage/West Carthage STP [Ref. 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19]. STP effluent samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 and sediment samples collected by EPA downstream of the STP in June 2009, document that a hazardous substance (i.e., PCB) having a bioaccumulation potential factor value of 500 or greater, is present in an observed release by direct observation and in sediment at levels that meet the criteria for observed release by chemical analysis, respectively [Figure 2; Ref. 1, pp. 51609, 51620; 2, p. BI-10; 13, pp. 19-23, 26 29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20; 21, pp. 2-8, 10, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 46-48, 54, 56-58, 60]. Based on the results of the NYSDEC wastewater sampling and the EPA sediment sampling, a zone of contamination extends from the PPE at the Carthage/West Carthage STP, across the Black River to contaminated sediment sample location BR-SED19, and downstream to contaminated sediment sample BR-SED07, a length of approximately 0.5 mile [Figure 2]. Fishing for human consumption has been observed within this zone of contamination [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 11, 24-25, 26, 28, 30, 34-36, 43, 50-51]. Actual Contamination is documented and the target fishery is evaluated for Actual Human Food Chain Contamination [Ref. 1, pp. 51592-51593, 51620-51621].

SD-Characterization and Containment

SOURCE DESCRIPTION

2.2 SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION

2.2.1 Source Identification

Number of the source: Source No. 1

Name and description of the source: Carthage/West Carthage STP Discharge

Source Type: Other (Carthage/West Carthage STP Discharge)

Source 1 consists of PCB-contaminated wastewater discharge from the Carthage/West Carthage Water Pollution Control Facility (i.e., the STP) [Ref. 19, pp. 1-2]. The Carthage/West Carthage STP, which was constructed in 1972, treats industrial and municipal wastewaters from the surrounding area and discharges its effluent to the Black River [Ref. 19, p. 1; 22, p. 48]. The main wastewater contributors to the STP as of the late 1990s, when NYSDEC performed the sampling described in the paragraphs following, are the Village of Carthage, the Village of West Carthage, the Climax Manufacturing (Climax) paper mill, and the Metro Paper (former Fort James Corporation) mill [Ref. 13, pp. 4-6; 19, p. 1].

In 1989, NYSDEC used PISCES samplers to sample Black River surface water at key points in an attempt to locate where PCBs were entering the Black River [Ref. 19, p. 4]. Sample results indicated that PCB concentrations were higher below the Village of Carthage than at other locations [Ref. 19, p. 4]. PCBs detected upstream of Carthage were dominated by pentachlorobiphenyls, while PCBs detected downstream of Carthage were dominated by trichlorobiphenyls [Ref. 19, p. 4]. NYSDEC took these analytical results to suggest that the source causing the increase in PCB concentrations was of a different type than upstream sources [Ref. 19, p. 4].

In 1997, NYSDEC sampled the effluent from the Carthage/West Carthage STP three times as part of an evaluation of sewage treatment plants within the Great Lakes Basin [Ref. 19, p. 4]. A high volume sampling device, known as a Total Organics Platform Sampler (TOPS), was used to sample wastewater effluent from the Carthage/West Carthage STP and three additional sewage treatment plants [Ref. 19, p. 4]. Of the four sewage treatment plants sampled, the Carthage/West Carthage STP had the highest concentrations of PCBs [Ref. 19, pp. 4-5]. Total (dissolved-phase + suspended solids) PCB concentrations were found to be 5, 7, and 77 ng/L, with 70 to 99 percent of the total attached to suspended solids [Ref. 19, pp. 4-5]. NYSDEC took the elevated levels of PCBs to suggest that one or more significant sources were present within the wastewater collection area [Ref. 19, p. 4].

In August 1998, NYSDEC submerged PISCES samplers at five key points within the Carthage/West Carthage municipal sewer system to characterize wastewaters entering the system from four main sources: the Village of Carthage (including northeast Carthage), the Village of West Carthage, the Climax paper mill in West Carthage, and Metro Paper in Carthage [Ref. 19, pp. 1-2, 6]. PISCES samplers were positioned directly downgradient of northeast Carthage, Village of Carthage, Climax, and Metro Paper [Ref. 19, pp. 1-2]. The sampling point for the Village of West Carthage wastewaters also included wastewaters from the upgradient Climax mill [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 6]. However, wastewater flow measurements were routinely collected from these locations [Ref. 19, p. 6]. Given the configuration of the sewers, differences in flow and contaminant concentrations at these two points allowed a rough calculation of West Carthage’s flow and contaminant contributions [Ref. 19, p. 6]. The samples were deployed for a 2-week period, from August 4 to August 18, 1998 [Ref. 19, p. 10].

Sample analytical results indicated duplicate average PCB concentrations that ranged from 14.19 to 76.52 ng/L in mill wastewaters and 2.19 to 21.02 ng/L for village (i.e., Carthage/northeast Carthage and northeast Carthage alone) wastewaters [Ref. 19, pp. 9-10]. Estimates of the dissolved-phase contaminant loadings over the 2-week sampling period were calculated for each source area using recorded wastewater flow rates [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 8, 10, 23]. Wastewater PCB concentrations were estimated by dividing the total mass of PCBs by the estimated volume of wastewater sampled [Ref. 19, pp. 10, 24-29]. The estimated sampling volume for each sampler was calculated using wastewater temperatures, duration of exposure, and membrane surface area [Ref. 19, p. 8]. Based on the recorded flow rates during the 2-week sampling period, NYSDEC concluded that the paper mills contributed approximately 90 percent of the estimated PCB

SD-Characterization and Containment

loading to the STP [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 12]. Metro Paper contributed greater than 60 percent of the total PCB loadings, even though it was not operating at the time and contributed the smallest amount of wastewater [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 12].

Village of Carthage wastewater PCBs were dominated by tetrachlorobiphenyls [Ref. 19, p. 12]. Wastewaters from northeast Carthage wastewaters, sampled upgradient of the main village sampling location, showed higher PCB concentrations and were dominated by pentachlorobiphenyls [Ref. 19, p. 12]. NYSDEC concluded that the difference in concentration and homolog pattern suggests that a unique source of PCBs was present in the northeast Carthage area [Ref. 19, p. 12]. Wastewater discharged from Metro Paper was dominated by dichlorobiphenyls and trichlorobiphenyls [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 12]. Wastewaters discharged from the Climax mill were dominated by trichlorobiphenyls and tetrachlorobiphenyls [Ref. 19, p. 12]. Wastewater homolog patterns seen at the Village of West Carthage sampling location, which were mixed with Climax mill wastewaters, were the same as those seen coming from the Climax mill [Ref. 19, p. 12]. NYSDEC concluded that this was probably caused by Climax’s higher PCB concentrations and higher flow volume overwhelming the smaller inputs from West Carthage [Ref. 19, p. 12].

Follow-up sampling conducted in 1999, consisting of whole-water grab samples to measure particulate and dissolved- phase PCBs, indicated greater concentrations in village wastewaters (12 to 32 ng/L) than the two paper mills (1.7 to 5.4 ng/L) [Ref. 19, pp. 2-3, 18-20, 31-34]. The decrease in concentrations was attributed to upgrades, removal of old paper making equipment, and effluent flow reductions at Metro Paper, and improved pretreatment and suspended solids removal at Climax [Ref. 19, pp. 1-3, 18].

Location of the source, with reference to a map of the site:

The Carthage/West Carthage STP discharge is located on the west bank of the Black River in the Village of West Carthage. The facility location is shown in Figure 2.

Containment

Release to surface water via overland migration and/or flood:

The presence of contaminated STP effluent provides evidence that PCBs have migrated into the Black River via the Carthage/West Carthage STP discharge [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 4-5, 18-20]. Therefore, a surface water containment factor value of 10 is assigned for this source [Ref. 1, p. 51609, Table 4-2].

SD-Hazardous Substances Source No.: 1

2.4.1 Hazardous Substances

Sampling and analysis by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 indicated the presence of PCBs in the Carthage/West Carthage STP effluent [Ref. 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19]. In 1997, three effluent samples were collected and indicated the presence of PCBs at concentrations of 5, 7, and 77 ng/L [Ref. 19, pp. 4-5]. In 1999, analysis of the STP’s effluent indicated a PCB concentration of 1.25 ng/L [Ref. 19, p. 18].

Sampling and analysis by NYSDEC in 1998 showed the presence of PCBs in the Carthage/West Carthage STP influent [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 6, 9-10]. From August 4 to August 18, 1998, NYSDEC deployed 5 duplicate pairs of PISCES samplers at key points in the Carthage/West Carthage municipal sewer system, to characterize wastewaters entering the system from four main sources: the Village of Carthage (including northeast Carthage), the Village of West Carthage, the Climax paper mill in West Carthage, and Metro Paper in Carthage [Ref. 19, pp. 1-2, 6, 9]. The samples were analyzed by a NYSDEC-contracted laboratory (AXYS Analytical Services, Sidney, British Columbia, Canada) using high- resolution gas chromatography/high resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC/HRMS) [EPA Method 1668 (modified)] [Ref. 19, p. 8]. A summary of the August 1998 NYSDEC results, in total PCB concentrations, is presented in Table 1. A breakdown of the NYSDEC sampling results by PCB congener can be found in Reference 19 pages 24 through 29.

The PISCES samplers consisted of brass containers filled with the liquid solvent hexane and sealed with semi- impermeable membrane [Ref. 19, p. 6]. Hydrophobic contaminants such as PCBs move through the hexane-saturated membrane and accumulate in the hexane [Ref. 19, p. 6]. The mass of hydrophobic contaminants that accumulate in the hexane is dependent on water temperature, membrane area, and the concentration of contaminants in the surrounding water [Ref. 19, p. 6]. At the end of the sampling period the samplers are retrieved, the membranes removed, and the hexane poured into a sample jar and sent to the laboratory for analysis [Ref. 19, p. 6]. The mass of PCBs measured in the hexane is converted to an estimated water concentration using an equation that takes into account the sampling duration and water temperature [Ref. 19, p. 6].

A number of quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) measures were taken by NYSDEC to produce reliable data [Ref. 19, p. 7]. During construction of the PISCES samplers in the laboratory, individual parts were thoroughly soaked and rinsed in hexane in order to remove any trace contaminants from the sampler parts [Ref. 19, p. 7]. Once the samplers were assembled, they were partially filled and rinsed with hexane before being wrapped in clean aluminum foil [Ref. 19, p. 7]. The samplers were rinsed with hexane twice more in the field before they were filled with hexane and deployed [Ref. 19, p. 7]. The samplers were suspended vertically in the water with the membrane facing down so that the membrane was completely covered by solvent inside the sampler and by water outside [Ref. 19, p. 7]. Water temperature at the sampling locations was recorded during deployment and retrieval of the samplers [Ref. 19, p. 9]. In addition, duplicate samples were collected at each sampling location [Ref. 19, p. 7]. The relative percent difference between the masses of PCBs recovered by the duplicate pairs was within the 50-percent range that NYSDEC considered acceptable for PISCES investigations [Ref. 19, pp. 9-10]. After sampler retrieval, the hexane was poured into pre-cleaned sample jars with Teflon™ lids and stored in a locked freezer until the samples were shipped overnight, under chain-of-custody and on ice, to the laboratory [Ref. 19, p. 7]. One control sample of hexane was collected an analyzed to document that the hexane was free of contamination [Ref. 19, p. 7].

Table 1

NYSDEC Wastewater Sampling Results

August 1998

Village of Carthage Village of West Carthage Fort James Mill/Metro Combined Village and Sample Location: Combined Village Northeast Carthage only Climax Mill Paper Mill NYSDEC Sample ID: 69802A 69802B 69803A 69803B 69804A 69804B 69805A 69805B 69801A 69801B

Total PCBs (ng/sample): 2690.18 2390.41 55.09 54.96 521.14 609.60 793.30 1288.55 467.10 679.96

Calculated Sample Volume (L): 33.29 33.29 26.01 26.01 26.69 26.69 73.70 73.70 48.00 47.64

Calculated Concentration (ng/L): 81.17 71.86 2.18 2.19 19.35 22.69 10.76 17.61 9.92 14.40

Duplicate % Relative Difference: 12.2 0.5 15.9 48.3 36.8

Duplicate Average Concentration (ng/L): 76.52 2.19 21.02 14.19 12.16 ng/L = nanograms per liter Ref. 19, pp. 1, 9

17 SD-Hazardous Waste Quantity Source No.: 1

2.4.2 Hazardous Waste Quantity

2.4.2.1.1 Hazardous Constituent Quantity

The information available is not sufficient to evaluate Tier A source hazardous waste quantity; therefore, hazardous constituent quantity is not scored (NS).

Hazardous Constituent Quantity (C) Value: NS

2.4.2.1.2 Hazardous Wastestream Quantity

The information available is not sufficient to evaluate Tier B source hazardous waste quantity; therefore, hazardous wastestream quantity is not scored.

Hazardous Wastestream Quantity (W) Value: NS

2.4.2.1.3 Volume

Sampling and analysis by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 showed the presence of PCBs in the Carthage/West Carthage STP effluent [Ref. 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19]. However, the total volume of PCB-contaminated STP discharge is unknown. Therefore, the volume of discharge is considered to be greater than 0 (>0) cubic yards. The source type is ‘Other,’ so the volume value is divided by 2.5 to obtain the assigned value, as shown below [Ref. 1, p. 51591, Section 2.4.2.1.3, Table 2-5].

Dimension of source (yd3): >0 yd3 Volume (V) Assigned Value: (>0)/2.5 = >0

2.4.2.1.4 Area

Tier D is not evaluated for source type “other” [Ref. 1, p. 51591, Table 2-5, Section 2.4.2.1.4].

Area of source (ft2): N/A Area (A) Assigned Value: 0

2.4.2.1.5 Source Hazardous Waste Quantity Value

The source hazardous waste quantity value for Source 1 is >0 for Tier C - Volume [Ref. 1, p. 51591].

Source Hazardous Waste Quantity Value: >0

SD-Summary

SITE SUMMARY OF SOURCE DESCRIPTIONS

Containment Source Source Hazardous Waste Ground Surface Air Number Quantity Value Water Water Gas Particulate

1 >0 NS 10 * NS NS

NS = Not Scored

* The overland flow containment factor is 10 for the source.

SWOF-Surface Water Overland Flow/Flood Migration Pathway

4.1 OVERLAND/FLOOD MIGRATION COMPONENT

4.1.1.1 Definition of Hazardous Substance Migration Path for Overland/Flood Component

An observed release to surface water is documented by direct observation and chemical analysis: The observed release by direct observation is supported by Carthage/West Carthage STP effluent samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 [Ref. 19, pp. 4-6, 18-19]. In 1997, NYSDEC sampled the effluent from the Carthage/West Carthage STP three times as part of an evaluation of sewage treatment plants within the Great Lakes Basin [Ref. 19, p. 4]. Total PCB concentrations were found to be 5, 7, and 77 ng/L [Ref. 19, p. 4]. NYSDEC took the elevated levels of PCBs to suggest that one or more significant sources is present within the wastewater collection area and that these results were consistent with previous sediment studies that found some of the highest levels of PCBs in sediments below the STP outfall [Ref. 19, p. 4]. In 1999, NYSDEC sampling and analysis of STP discharge indicated a PCB concentration of 1.25 ng/L [Ref. 19, pp. 18-19].

Sampling and analysis by NYSDEC in 1998 showed the presence of PCBs in the Carthage/West Carthage STP influent [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 6, 9-10]. In August 1998, NYSDEC deployed PISCES samplers at key points in the Carthage/West Carthage municipal sewer system, to characterize wastewaters entering the system [Ref. 19, pp. 1-2, 6, 9]. Sample analytical results indicated average PCB concentrations that ranged from 14.19 to 76.52 ng/L in mill wastewaters and 2.19 to 21.02 ng/L for village wastewaters [Ref. 19, pp. 9, 10].

The observed release by chemical analysis is supported by sediment samples collected from the Black River by EPA in June 2009 [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20]. The samples were collected from the Village of Herrings boat launch (approximately 3 miles downstream of the STP discharge) to beyond the Route 126 bridge (approximately 1.2 miles upstream of the STP discharge) [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26 29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 4-5, 9]. Background samples were obtained upstream of the STP, past and present paper mills, and other industrial facilities [Figure 2; Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 13, pp. 32-33; 20, pp. 5, 9]. Sample analytical results indicate the presence of PCBs in Black River sediments at concentrations significantly above background concentrations at six sediment sample locations (BR-SED19, BR-SED17, BR-SED15, BR-SED13, BR SED12, and BR-SED07) across from and downstream of the Carthage/West Carthage STP, historical and present locations of paper mills, and other industrial facilities [Figure 2; Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 21, pp. 2-8, 11, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 45-49]. A variety of sediment depositional environments were observed during the June 2009 sampling; as such, the discrete points of PCB-contaminated sediments represent differential contaminant settling [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 28-29, 32, 52]. Based on the results of the NYSDEC wastewater sampling and the EPA sediment sampling, a zone of contamination extends from the PPE at the Carthage/West Carthage STP, across the Black River to contaminated sediment sample location BR-SED19, and downstream to contaminated sediment sample BR-SED07, a length of approximately 0.5 mile [Figures 1 and 2].

The Black River flows out of the foothills of the western Adirondack Mountains and runs for approximately 114 miles across the Tug Hill Plateau before discharging into eastern Lake Ontario [Ref. 10, pp. 1-2]. Information provided by the NYSDEC Regional Fisheries Manager and statements made to EPA by local residents indicate that the segment of the Black River from the Carthage/West Carthage STP downstream to the Village of Herrings boat launch is routinely fished for human consumption [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 11-12, 24-26, 30, 34-35, 43, 51]. Species of fish that inhabit this segment include walleye, chain pickerel, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch [Ref. 10, p. 9]. Subsistence fishing was observed by EPA along the west bank of the Black River, immediately downstream of the Carthage/West Carthage STP, on October 8, 2008 [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 34, 43]. Subsistence fishing was also observed by EPA along the east bank of the Black River approximately midway between contaminated sediment samples BR-SED17 and BR-SED19 on June 17, 2009 [Figure 2; 13, pp. 28, 35-36, 50; 20, p. 16; 21, pp. 31, 39]. The wastewater samples collected by NYSDEC

SWOF-Surface Water Overland Flow/Flood Migration Pathway

in 1997 and 1999, and the sediment samples collected by EPA in June 2009, define a zone of contamination in which these observed fishing locations lie; therefore, Actual Human Food Chain Contamination of this fishery is documented [Figure 2; Ref. 1, pp. 51592, 51620]. No fish tissue analyses were available, so the target fishery is subject to Level II concentrations [Ref. 1, pp. 51592-51593, 51620-51621].

The Black River is the only water body along the 15-mile target distance limit (TDL), which extends from the STP discharge (i.e., the PPE) north and west to the Village of Black River [Figure 3]. The Black River, downstream of the Village of Herrings boat launch to its mouth at Lake Ontario, supports a wide range of recreational activities [Ref. 10, pp. 9-10; 11, pp. 1-3; 35, pp. 1-2]. Public fishing areas, waterfront parks, and whitewater canoeing and kayaking are popular uses of the river downstream of the site [Ref. 10, pp. 9-10; 11, pp. 1-3; 35, pp. 1-2]. The Lower Black River includes fish ladders to assist migratory fish species with upstream migration past dams [Ref. 10, p. 10]. The Black River Watershed lies entirely inland and is not influenced by salt water bodies; therefore, the Black River is evaluated as fresh water [Ref. 29, p. 2].

#10

#11

* #12 *#5

#13

#4 *#3

#15

#14 15 Mile Target * Distance Limit *#2

Probable Point of Entry (PPE) Carthage/West Carthage Sewage Treatment Plant

LEGEND

Site Reference Point

-Longitude: West 75 37 39.91

-Latitude: North 43 59 03.37 Zone of Contamination Surface Water Pathway $T1 Mile Marker REPORT DATE: PROJECT MANAGER: CLIENT NAME: DRAWING TITLE: Fifteen Mile Surface November 2009 S. Snyder Water Pathway EPA 15-Mile Surface Water Pathway Map DRAWING: 06027_BRP_15_Mile.mxd CHECKED BY: PAT H: Black River PCBs HRS Eligible Wetlands S. Snyder P:/SAT2/Black_River_PCBs/MXD Villages of Carthage / West Carthage, SOURCES: REVISION No. CONTRACT No. PROJECT NAME: Jefferson County, NY 1. National Geographic TOPO! U.S. Geologic Survey (USGS). 7.5 Minute Series SM 0 EP-W-05-048

(Topographic) Quadrangles: Black River, NY, 1982; Carthage, NY, 1980; Copenhagen,

NY 1980; Defereit, NY, 1982; North Wilna, NY, 1989; and Rutland Center, NY, 1980. 2. U.S Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, St. Petersburg, FL. 2,000 1,000 0 2,000 4,000 Weston Solutions, Inc. WORK ORDER No. DRAWN/MODIFIED BY: Black River PCBs National Wetlands Inventory, http://www.nwi.fws.gov. Date unknown; downloaded 205 Campus Drive Edison, New Jersey 08837-3939 J. Lynes TEL: (732) 417-5800 Fax: (732) 417-5801 ® 20113.111.002.0121.00 DATE CREATED: FIGURE: SCALE: DATE: September 2008. Graphic Scale In Feet http://www.westonsolutions.com

07/15/2009 3 1" = 2000' 11/06/2009 SWOF-Observed Release

4.1.2.1 Likelihood of Release

4.1.2.1.1 Observed Release

Direct Observation

The Carthage/West Carthage STP treats industrial and municipal wastewaters from the surrounding area and discharges its effluent to the Black River [Ref. 19, p. 1]. Therefore, Carthage/West Carthage STP effluent samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 demonstrate that a hazardous substance (i.e., PCB) is known to have entered surface water through direct deposition, thus establishing an observed release by direct observation [Ref. 1, p. 51609; 19, pp. 4-5, 18 19]. In 1997, NYSDEC sampled the effluent from the Carthage/West Carthage STP three times as part of an evaluation of sewage treatment plants within the Great Lakes Basin [Ref. 19, p. 4]. Total PCB concentrations were found to be 5, 7, and 77 ng/L [Ref. 19, p. 4]. NYSDEC took the elevated levels of PCBs to suggest that one or more significant sources is present within the wastewater collection area and that these results were consistent with previous sediment studies that found some of the highest levels of PCBs in sediments below the STP outfall [Ref. 19, p. 4]. In 1999, NYSDEC sampling and analysis of STP discharge indicated a PCB concentration of 1.25 ng/L [Ref. 19, pp. 18-19].

Chemical Analysis

Sediment samples collected by EPA downstream of the STP in June 2009, document that a hazardous substance (i.e., PCB) is present in sediment at levels that meet the criteria for observed release by chemical analysis [Figure 2; Ref. 1, p. 51609; 2, p. BI-10; 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20; 21, pp. 2-8, 10, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 46-48, 54, 56-58, 60]. From June 16 through 18, 2009, EPA collected sediment samples from the Black River [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20]. The samples were collected in an upstream, or southerly, direction from the Village of Herrings boat launch to approximately 1,670 feet north of the Route 126 bridge [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20]. Sediment samples were collected from known or suspected sediment depositional areas, from the Village of Herrings boat launch upstream, or south, to the PCB-contaminated sediment depositional area identified by NYSDEC [Figure 2; Ref 13, pp. 19-23, 44-48; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11, 12]. Sediment samples were also collected near the east and west banks of the Black River at approximately 500-foot intervals where attainable, beginning 500 feet upstream of the sediment depositional area and ending approximately 1,670 feet north of the Route 126 bridge [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 26-29, 31-33, 49, 51-54, 56; 20, pp. 3-5, 9, 16, 20]. Samples obtained upstream of the STP, past and present paper mills, and the other industrial facilities, were collected to evaluate background conditions [Figure 2; Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 13, pp. 32-33; 20, pp. 5, 9]. Due to the presence of obstructions, many of the proposed samples adjacent to the two active paper mills could not be collected [Ref. 13, p. 24; 20, p. 3]. Sediment samples used in the observed release evaluation were obtained at a depth of 0 to 6 inches using a self-tripping bottom sampling dredge [Ref. 13, pp. 20-23, 26-29, 32-33, 44-45, 47-52, 54-55; 20, pp. 3-5]. The sediment samples collected by EPA were analyzed for low concentration TCL Aroclor parameters through the EPA CLP [Ref. 20, pp. 1-3, 11-13, 16-17, 20-21; 21, pp. 2-8, 10-11, 13-14, 35-38]. The sediment samples were also analyzed for total organic carbon (TOC ) and grain size distribution by the EPA Region 2 laboratory [Ref. 20, pp. 1-3, 14-15, 18-19, 22-23; 25, pp. 1, 3].

Sampling and analysis by EPA in 2009 showed the presence of PCBs in Black River sediments at concentrations significantly above background concentrations at six sediment sample locations. Table 2 shows the physical characteristics of the samples that document background concentrations and observed release; Tables 3 presents the PCB analytical results for the substances that meet observed release criteria.

Table 2

Background and Release Sample Information

Sediment Samples - June 2009

Black River PCBs, Carthage/West Carthage, NY

Field Organic Sample Sample Height of Depth (in) Moisture Sand Total Fines TOC References Location CLP No. Date Time Water [below top (%) (%) (Silt and Clay) (mg/kg) Column (ft) of sediment] (%) BACKGROUND BR-SED43 B5PP7 6/18/2009 1035 15 0-6 64 45.1 54.8 J 42,000 Ref. 13, pp. 32, 33; 20, pp. 5, 22; 21, p. 46; 25, pp. 3, 18 BR-SED44 B5PP8 6/18/2009 1115 10 0-6 59 44.5 56 J 33,000 Ref. 13, pp. 33, 36; 20, pp. 5, 22; 21, p. 47; 25, pp. 3, 19 BR-SED45 B5PP9 6/18/2009 1100 10 0-6 60 66.5 34.6 J 40,000 Ref. 13, pp. 33, 36; 20, pp. 5, 22; 21, p. 48; 25, pp. 3, 19 RELEASE BR-SED07 B5PL1 6/16/2009 1225 1 0-6 50 68.6 33 J 19,000 Ref. 13, p. 21, 22; 20, pp. 4, 14; 21, p. 21; 25, pp. 3, 9 BR-SED12 B5PL6 6/17/2009 835 10 0-6 56 53.9 49 J 36,000 Ref. 13, p. 26; 20, pp. 4, 18; 21, p. 26; 25, pp. 3, 11

BR-SED13 B5PL7 6/17/2009 850 5 0-6 57 63.5 39 J 25,000 Ref. 13, p. 26; 20, pp. 4, 18; 21, p. 27; 25, pp. 3, 12

BR-SED15 B5PL9 6/17/2009 935 6 0-6 56 61 42 J 42,000 Ref. 13, p. 27; 20, pp. 4, 18; 21, p. 29; 25, pp. 3, 13

BR-SED17 B5PM1 6/17/2009 1100 3 0-6 56 66.1 34 J 51,000 Ref. 13, pp. 27, 28; 20, pp. 4, 18; 21, p. 31; 25, pp. 3, 14 BR-SED19 B5PM3 6/17/2009 1125 1.5 0-6 64 40.8 58.8 J 46,000 Ref. 13, p. 28; 20, pp. 5, 18; 21, p. 39; 25, pp. 3, 15 ft = feet in = inches TOC = total organic carbon mg/kg = milligrams per kilogram J = the identification of the analyte is acceptable; the reported value is an estimate [Ref. 25, p. 3] Bold - Background sample used in observed release evaluation

24 Table 3

Background and Release Concentrations - PCBs

Sediment Samples - June 2009

Black River PCBs, Carthage/West Carthage, NY

Background Concentrations Release Concentrations

SAT 2 Sample No.: BR-SED43 BR-SED44 BR-SED45 BR-SED07 BR-SED12 BR-SED13 BR-SED15 BR-SED17 BR-SED19

EPA Sample No.: B5PP7 B5PP8 B5PP9 B5PL1 B5PL6 B5PL7 B5PL9 B5PM1 B5PM3

Date: 6/18/2009 6/18/2009 6/18/2009 6/16/2009 6/17/2009 6/17/2009 6/17/2009 6/17/2009 6/17/2009

Depth (inches): 0-6 0-6 0-6 0-6 0-6 0-6 0-6 0-6 0-6

Comments:

Adjustment Adjusted PCBs (ug/kg) Result RDL Result RDL Result RDL Result RDL Result RDL Result RDL Result RDL Result Bias CRQL RDL Result RDL Factor Result

Aroclor-1248 90 U 90 79 U 79 80 U 80 660 66 530 76 120 74 100 91

Aroclor-1254 90 U 90 5.5 J* 79 80 U 80 1200 D 150 4,200 DJ Unknown Divide by 10 420 33 370

Aroclor-1260 90 U 90 79 U 79 80 U 80 110 66 Reference(s) Ref. 13, pp. 32, 33; Ref. 13, p. 33; 20, p. Ref. 13, p. 33; 20, p. Ref. 13, p. 21, 22; Ref. 13, p. 26; 20, p. Ref. 13, p. 26; 20, p. Ref. 13, p. 27; 20, p. Ref. 13, p. 27, 28; 20, p. 16; 21, pp. 4, 5, 10-13, 31, 56; 27, pp. 4, 8, 16; 33, p. 8; 36, Ref. 13, p. 28; 20, p. 20, p. 20; 21, pp. 46, 20; 21, pp. 47, 60; 20; 21, pp. 48, 60. 20, p. 11; 21, pp. 21, 16; 21, pp. 10-13, 16; 21, pp. 27, 57. 16; 21, pp. 29, 57. p. 1; 43, p. 5; 44, p. 21. 16; 21, pp. 39, 58. 60. 27, p. 4. 54. 26, 57; 43, p. 3; 44, p. 21.

All concentrations in micrograms per kilogram (ug/kg). CRQL = Contract Required Quantitation Limit. RDL = Reporting Detection Limit [i.e., sample quantitation limit (SQL)] (CRQL adjusted for percent moisture of the sample) [Ref. 33, p. 14]. U = The analyte was analyzed for, but was not detected at a level greater than or equal to the level of the adjusted CRQL for sample and method [Ref. 34, p. 6]. J = The analyte was positively identified and the associated numerical value is the approximate concentration of the analyte in the sample (due either to the quality of the data generated because certain quality control criteria were not met, or the concentration of th analyte was below the CRQL) [Ref. 34, p. 6]. D = The sample or extract is reanalyzed at a dilution factor (DF) greater than 1 (e.g., when the response of an analyte exceeds the response of the highest standard in the initial calibration) [Ref. 33, p. 5] * The result is qualified with a "J" because the reported concentration is greater than the Method Detction Limit (MDL) and less than the RDL. Therefore, there is no bias associated with this value and no adjustment for bias was necessary. Bold = maximum background concentration. Blank spaces = results do not meet observed release criteria.

25 SWOF-Observed Release

Notes on Sample Similarity:

• Sampling Methods: The background and release sediment samples were all collected by EPA, using Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), during the sampling event in June 2009 [Ref. 13, pp. 20, 22-23, 26-28, 32-33; 32, pp. 4-6]. • Analytical Procedures: The background and release samples were all analyzed for TCL Aroclors by the same laboratory (Shealy Environmental Services of West Columbia, South Carolina) [Ref. 20, pp. 1-3, 11-13, 16-17, 20-21; 21, pp. 1-60]. The chemical analyses were coordinated through the EPA CLP; EPA validated the analytical results according to Region 2 Data Validation guidelines [Ref. 20, pp. 1-3, 11-13, 16-17, 20-21; 21, pp. 1-60]. Both the release and background samples were also analyzed for TOC [EPA Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) C-88 (Combustion/IR Method)] and grain size distribution [EPA SOP Bio 8.3 (Hydrometer Method based on ASTM D422-63)] at the EPA laboratory in Edison, New Jersey [Ref. 20, pp. 1-3, 14-15, 18 19, 22-25; 25, pp. 1, 3; 41, pp. 1-14; 42, pp. 1-23]. • Sampling Depth: All sediment samples used for the observed release evaluation were collected from the 0- to 6-inch interval below top of sediment [Ref. 13, pp. 20, 22, 26-28, 33; 20, pp. 3-5]. • Percent Moisture: The percent moisture in the background samples ranged from 59% to 64%, while percent moisture in the release samples ranged from 50% to 64% [Ref. 21, pp. 15, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 46-48]. • Sample Description: TOC and Grain Size analyses show that background sediment sample BR-SED43, which has the maximum reported background concentration of PCBs [see Table 3], also contains a greater or equal concentration of TOC and a higher percentage of fine-grained material (i.e., clay and silt), than most of the release samples [see Table 2]. Therefore, background sediment sample BR-SED43 has a greater affinity for contaminants such as PCBs than most of the release samples [Ref. 25, pp. 9, 11-15, 18-19; 37, pp. 7-8].

Due to the similarities (i.e., same time frame, same sampling and analytical methods, same laboratories, similar physical setting and sampling depths, overlapping ranges of percent moisture values, and similar sediment descriptions) among the background and release samples, the background and release analytical results are considered to be comparable.

Attribution

PCBs belong to a broad family of man-made organic chemicals known as chlorinated hydrocarbons [Ref. 23, p. 1]. PCBs were manufactured domestically from 1929 until their manufacture was banned in 1979 [Ref. 23, p. 1]. Due to their non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point, and electrical insulating properties, PCBs were used in a variety of industrial applications, including as a solvent in inks used in carbonless copy paper manufacturing [Ref. 23, p. 1; 24, p. 7]. Paper mills involved in paper recycling released PCB-containing inks on paper and boxboard when converting recycled paper to pulp, subsequently contaminating wastewater, equipment, and plumbing [Ref. 19, p. 20]. Once released, PCBs do not readily break down and therefore remain in the environment for long periods of time [Ref. 23, p. 2].

Historical information indicates that industrial activity has been conducted along the shoreline of the Black River in the Villages of Carthage and West Carthage since the late 1800s [Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 22, pp. 7-9, 11, 14-16, 30-32, 63, 65-69, 75-76]. The types of industries included machine shops for manufacturing papermaking equipment, knitting mills, grist mills, lumber mills and finished wood products manufacturing, paper and paper pulp mills, and tanneries [Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 22, pp. 7-9, 11, 14-16, 30-32, 63, 65-69, 75-76, 94]. As discussed above, sediment samples collected by EPA in June 2009 indicate that sediments in the Black River, downstream of the STP and past and present paper mills, are contaminated with PCBs at concentrations significantly above background concentrations at five sediment sample locations.

At least part of the significant increase in sediment PCB concentrations can be attributed the STP discharge; this assertion is supported by Carthage/West Carthage STP effluent samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 [Ref. 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19]. In 1997, NYSDEC sampled the effluent from the Carthage/West Carthage STP three times as part of an evaluation of sewage treatment plants within the Great Lakes Basin [Ref. 19, p. 4]. Total PCB concentrations were found to be 5, 7, and 77 ng/L [Ref. 19, p. 4]. NYSDEC took the elevated levels of PCBs to suggest that one or more significant sources is present within the wastewater collection area and that these results were consistent with previous sediment studies that found some of the highest levels of PCBs in sediments below the STP outfall [Ref. 19, p. 4]. In

SWOF-Observed Release

1999, NYSDEC sampling and analysis of STP discharge indicated a PCB concentration of 1.25 ng/L [Ref. 19, pp. 18 19].

Sampling and analysis by NYSDEC in 1998 showed the presence of PCBs in the Carthage/West Carthage STP influent [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 9-10]. In August 1998, NYSDEC deployed PISCES samplers at key points in the Carthage/West Carthage municipal sewer system, to characterize wastewaters entering the system [Ref. 19, pp. 1-2, 6, 9]. Sample analytical results indicated average PCB concentrations that ranged from 14.19 to 76.52 ng/L in mill wastewaters and 2.19 to 21.02 ng/L for village wastewaters [Ref. 19, pp. 9, 10].

Other Possible Sites

Historical information indicates that tanneries, paper mills, and other industries have operated immediately adjacent to the Black River in the Villages of Carthage and West Carthage since the late 1800s [Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 22, pp. 7-9, 11, 14-16, 30-32, 65, 69, 75-76]. These facilities extended to the water line to exploit the power produced by the river’s current [Ref. 8, pp. 3-11; 9, pp. 3-8; 22, pp. 7-9, 11, 15, 30-32, 65, 69, 75-76]. Radiometric dating of sediment samples collected by NYSDEC in 2002, at depths ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 feet (50-80 centimeters) below the surface of the sediment mound, indicates that PCB-contaminated sediment at this depth was deposited in the 1950s and 1960s [Ref. 16, pp. 6, 15-19]. Paper mills involved in paper recycling released PCB-containing inks on paper and boxboard when converting recycled paper to pulp, subsequently contaminating wastewater, equipment, and plumbing [Ref. 19, p. 20]. Although a review of federal and state databases indicates that there are no known previous, relevant environmental studies (i.e., media sampling) of the past and present paper mills, these and other facilities are thought to have contributed to the contamination in the river [Ref. 14, pp. ES1-ES14, 4-128, 291-351; 15, pp. 4-5; 28, pp. 1-2].

Metro Paper

The Metro Paper facility was originally constructed in 1898 as the West End Pulp and Casket Company [Ref. 22, p. 32]. In 1902, the West End Paper Company was established [Ref. 9, p. 3; 22, p. 38]. The mill was operated by the Crown Zellerbach Corporation throughout much of its operating history [Ref. 22, pp. 42, 51; 39, pp. 2-3]. Eventually the facility grew to occupy 34 acres, more than 25 of which are covered with approximately 20 buildings and several parking lots [Ref. 22, p. 32]. Beginning in approximately 1960, 85 to 90 percent of Crown Zellerbach’s pulp was derived from secondary fiber. This secondary fiber consisted of recycled waste pulp from newspapers and scraps that were collected throughout upstate New York [Ref. 22, pp. 32-33]. During processing, de-inking equipment was used to remove the ink from the recycled paper [Ref. 22, p. 33]. Crown Zellerbach was purchased by the James River Corp. in the late-1980s [Ref. 22, p. 51; 39, p. 3]. The facility was sold to the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency (JCIDA) in 1999 [Ref. 13, p. 12; 39, p. 3]. Metro Paper purchased the facility from the JCIDA in 2000 and subsequently sold the facility back to JCIDA in 2005 [Ref. 39, pp. 3-5].

In August 1998, NYSDEC concluded that two paper mills (Metro Paper and Climax Manufacturing) contributed approximately 90 percent of the estimated PCB loading to the STP [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 2, 12]. Metro Paper contributed greater than 60 percent of the total PCB loadings even though it was not operating at the time and contributed the smallest amount of wastewater [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 2].

Climax Manufacturing

The property occupied by Climax was first developed prior to1885 [Ref. 22, p. 75]. The types of businesses that occupied the property during that time period included a tannery, a sash and blind factory, a cabinet shop, a pail factory, and a flour and grist mill [Ref. 8, p. 3-5; 22, p. 75]. The present mill was established in 1911 as the Carthage Sulphite Pulp and Paper Co. by the merger of two adjoining facilities [Ref. 8, p. 8; 22, p. 69]. The Climax facility, also known as Carthage Paper Makers, has historically utilized recycled fiber as a source of pulp [Ref. 22, p. 69]. The facility was sold to the JCIDA in 1998 [Ref. 40, p. 2]. Climax purchased the facility from the JCIDA in 2008 [Ref. 40, pp. 2-4].

In August 1998, NYSDEC concluded that the paper mills (Metro Paper and Climax) contributed approximately 90 percent of the estimated PCB loading to the STP [Ref. 19, pp. 1, 2, 12]. NYSDEC attributed the presence of the PCBs in part to residual contamination of the two mills’ process equipment and plumbing [Ref. 19, p. 3]. PCBs, formerly present in ink microcapsules in carbonless copy paper, were historically released when converting recycled paper to pulp,

SWOF-Observed Release

subsequently contaminating wastewaters [Ref. 19, pp. 2, 20].

Carthage Machine Company (CEM Machine, Inc)

With the growth in the number and size of paper mills in northern New York in the 1890s and early 1900s, a need developed for papermaking machinery [Ref. 22, p. 14]. As a result, the Carthage Machine Company (CMC) was established [Ref. 13, p. 38; 22, p. 14]. The property, located on the east bank of Black River in the Village of Carthage, was first used for industrial purposes by the Empire Steam Pump Co. mill in the early 1880s [Ref. 13, p. 6; 22, pp. 9, 11, 14]. In 1894, the original two-story brick structure that housed CMC was constructed [Ref. 22, p. 14]. The CMC was incorporated in 1900 [Ref. 22, p. 16]. Throughout the years the facility changed ownership several times and was expanded to meet the demands of growing product lines and markets [Ref. 22, pp. 7-18]. Despite a slowing of the papermaking industry in the northeast, CMC’s expansion continued throughout the 1970s to accommodate new product lines for the plant [Ref. 22, p. 17].

In 1991, PCB-contaminated soils were removed from the cellar of the pre-1884 portion of the facility [Ref. 31, p. 3]. The PCBs were attributed to a compressor unit in the basement of the building [Ref. 14, p.204]. The PCB-contaminated materials were reportedly remediated in accordance with Toxic Substances and Control Act (TSCA) cleanup policy [Ref. 14, p. 203]. In addition to PCB-contaminated machinery having been utilized at the CMC facility, spent halogenated solvents and waste oils were improperly handled resulting in spillage on the ground surface [Ref. 14, pp. 180, 203-204].

Hazardous Substances Released:

PCBs ======Observed Release Factor Value: 550

SWOF/Food Chain-Waste Characteristics

4.1.3.2 Human Food Chain Threat - Waste Characteristics

4.1.3.2.1 Toxicity/Persistence/Bioaccumulation

Toxicity River Food Chain Toxicity/Persistence/ Factor Persistence Bioaccumulation Bioaccumulation Factor Ref. 2 Hazardous Substances Value Factor Value Factor Value Value (Table 4-16) Page PCBs 10,000 1 50,000 5 x 108 BI-10

SWOF/Food Chain-Waste Characteristics

4.1.3.2.2 Hazardous Waste Quantity

Source Hazardous Is source hazardous Waste Quantity constituent quantity Source Number Value (HRS Section 2.4.2.1.5) data complete? (yes/no)

1 >0 no

Sum of Values: >0

The sum corresponds to a hazardous waste quantity factor value of 1 in Table 2-6 of the HRS [Ref. 1, p. 51591]. However, the HRS states that if any target is subject to Level I or Level II concentrations, assign either the value from Table 2-6 or a value of 100, whichever is greater, as the hazardous waste quantity factor value for that pathway [Ref. 1, p. 51592].

4.1.3.2.3 Waste Characteristics Factor Category Value

PCBs associated with the waste source, which has a surface water pathway containment factor greater than 0 for the watershed, corresponds to a Toxicity/Persistence Factor Value of 10,000 and Bioaccumulation Potential Factor Value of 50,000, as shown previously [Ref. 1, pp. 51618, 51620; 2, p. BI-10].

(Toxicity/Persistence Factor Value) x (Hazardous Waste Quantity Factor Value) = 10,000 x 100 = 1 x 106

(Toxicity/Persistence Factor Value x Hazardous Waste Quantity Factor Value) x (Bioaccumulation Potential Factor Value) = (1 x 106) x (50,000) = 5 x 1010

The product corresponds to a Waste Characteristics Factor Category Value of 320 in Table 2-7 of the HRS [Ref. 1, p. 51592].

======Toxicity/Persistence/Bioaccumulation Factor Value: 5 x 108 Hazardous Waste Quantity Factor Value: 100 Waste Characteristics Factor Category Value: 320

SWOF/Food Chain-Targets/Food Chain Individual

4.1.3.3 Human Food Chain Threat - Targets

Walleye, chain pickerel, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and other species inhabit the Black River from Carthage/West Carthage to the Village of Herrings boat launch; this segment of the river is fished for human consumption [Ref. 10, p. 9; 13, pp. 8-9, 11-12, 24-25, 26, 28, 30, 34-36, 43, 50-51]. Subsistence fishing was observed by EPA along the west bank of the Black River, immediately downstream of the Carthage/West Carthage STP (i.e., the PPE), on October 8, 2008 [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 34, 43]. Subsistence fishing was also observed by EPA on June 17, 2009, along the east bank of the Black River approximately midway between contaminated sediment samples BR-SED17 and BR-SED19 [Figure 2; 13, pp. 27-28, 35-36, 50]. Information provided by the NYSDEC Regional Fisheries Manager and statements made by local residents to EPA indicate that the segment of the Black River, from the Carthage/West Carthage STP downstream to the Village of Herrings boat launch, is routinely fished for human consumption [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 11-12, 24 26, 30, 34-35, 43, 51]. The wastewater samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999, and the sediment samples collected by EPA in June 2009, define a zone of contamination in which the October 2008 and June 2009 observed fishing locations lie [see Sections 2.2 and 4.1.2.1].

STP effluent samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 and sediment samples collected by EPA downstream of the STP in June 2009, document that a hazardous substance (i.e., PCB) having a bioaccumulation potential factor value of 500 or greater, is present in an observed release by direct observation and in sediment sample locations at levels that meet the criteria for observed release by chemical analysis, respectively [Figure 2; Ref. 1, pp. 51609, 51620; 2, p. BI-10; 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20; 21, pp. 2-8, 10, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 46-48, 54, 56-58, 60]. Both the October 2008 and June 2009 observed fishing locations are located between the PPE (i.e., the STP) and the most distant downstream contaminated sampling point (i.e., BR-SED07); therefore, Actual Contamination is documented and the target fishery is evaluated for Actual Human Food Chain Contamination [Figure 2; Ref. 1, p. 51620]. No fish tissue sample analyses were available, so the target fishery is subject to Level II concentrations [Ref. 1, pp. 51592-51593, 51620-51621].

Sediment Samples for Observed Release

Bioaccumulation Distance Hazardous Potential Sample ID from PPE Substance Factor Value * Reference(s)

BR-SED17 1,050 feet PCBs 50,000 Figure 2; Table 3; Ref. 1, p. 51620; 2, p. BI-10; 13, pp. 27-28; 20, p. 16; 21, p. 31.

BR-SED19 1,135 feet PCBs 50,000 Figure 2; Table 3; Ref. 1, p. 51620; 2, p. BI-10; 13, p. 28; 20, p. 16; 21, p. 39.

SWOF/Food Chain-Targets/Food Chain Individual

4.1.3.3.1 Food Chain Individual

Sample ID: BR-SED17 Hazardous Substance: PCBs Bioaccumulation Potential: 50,000 References: Figure 2; Table 3; Ref. 1, p. 51620; 2, p. BI-10; 13, pp. 27-28; 20, p. 16; 21, p. 31.

Type of Dilution Identity of Fishery Surface Water Body Weight Reference(s)

Black River Large stream to river* 0.001 1, p. 51613; 30, p. 1.

* There is no discharge gauging station in the segment of the Black River under consideration. Therefore, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Station Nos. 04252500 and 04260500, located upstream and downstream of the site, respectively are used to interpolate discharge at the site. Based on averaged annual discharges for the years 2000 to 2008, discharge at the site is estimated to be 3,466 cubic feet per second (cfs) [Ref. 30, p. 1].

There is an observed release of PCBs with Bioaccumulation Potential Factor Values of 500 or greater, and there is Level II Actual Contamination of the Black River fishery [Figure 2; Ref. 1, pp. 51592-51593, 51620; 2, p. BI-10; 10, p. 9; 13, pp. 8-9, 11-12, 24-25, 26-28, 30, 34-36, 43, 50-51; 20, pp. 11, 16, 20; 21, pp. 2-8, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 46] . Therefore, a Food Chain Individual Factor Value of 45 is assigned [Ref. 1, p. 51620].

======Food Chain Individual Factor Value: 45

SWOF/Food Chain-Level I/Level II Concentrations/Potential Contamination

4.1.3.3.2 Population

4.1.3.3.2.1 Level I Concentrations

No fish tissue analyses were available. Therefore, there are no fisheries documented as subject to Level I concentrations and the Level I Concentrations Factor Value is 0 [Ref. 1, pp. 51592-51593, 51620-51621].

======Level I Concentrations Factor Value: 0

4.1.3.3.2.2 Level II Concentrations

Walleye, chain pickerel, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and other species inhabit the Black River from Carthage/West Carthage to the Village of Herrings boat launch; this segment of the river is fished for human consumption [Ref. 10, p. 9; 13, pp. 8-9, 11-12, 24-25, 26, 28, 30, 34-36, 43, 50-51]. Subsistence fishing was observed by EPA along the west bank of the Black River, immediately downstream of the Carthage/West Carthage STP (i.e., the PPE), on October 8, 2008 [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 34, 43]. Subsistence fishing was also observed by EPA on June 17, 2009, along the east bank of the Black River approximately midway between contaminated sediment samples BR-SED17 and BR-SED19 [Figure 2; 13, pp. 27-28, 35-36, 50]. Information provided by the NYSDEC Regional Fisheries Manager and statements made by local residents to EPA indicate that the segment of the Black River, from the Carthage/West Carthage STP downstream to the Village of Herrings boat launch, is routinely fished for human consumption [Figure 2; Ref. 13, pp. 8-9, 11-12, 24 26, 30, 34-35, 43, 51]. The wastewater samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999, and the sediment samples collected by EPA in June 2009, document an observed release of PCBs and define a zone of contamination in which the October 2008 and June 2009 observed fishing locations lie [see Sections 2.2 and 4.1.2.1].

STP effluent samples collected by NYSDEC in 1997 and 1999 and sediment samples collected by EPA downstream of the STP in June 2009, document that a hazardous substance (i.e., PCB) having a bioaccumulation potential factor value of 500 or greater, is present in an observed release by direct observation and in sediment sample locations at levels that meet the criteria for observed release by chemical analysis, respectively [Figure 2; Ref. 1, pp. 51609, 51620; 2, p. BI-10; 13, pp. 19-23, 26-29, 31-33, 44-47, 49, 51-54, 56; 19, pp. 4-5, 18-19; 20, pp. 2-5, 9, 11-12, 16, 20; 21, pp. 2-8, 10, 21, 26-27, 29, 31, 39, 46-48, 54, 56-58, 60]. Both the October 2008 and June 2009 observed fishing locations are located between the PPE (i.e., the STP) and the most distant downstream contaminated sampling point (i.e., BR-SED07); therefore, Actual Contamination is documented and the target fishery is evaluated for Actual Human Food Chain Contamination [Figure 2; Ref. 1, p. 51620]. No fish tissue analyses were available, so the target fishery is subject to Level II concentrations [Ref. 1, pp. 51592-51593, 51620-51621]. The exact fish consumption rate for the Black River fishery is not documented; however, as fishing for human consumption has been documented, the fishery is assigned to the category “Greater than 0 to 100 pounds per year” [Ref. 1, p. 51621; 13, pp. 11, 35]. The category corresponds to the assigned Human Food Chain Population Value of 0.03 in Table 4-18 of the HRS, which is assigned as the Level II Concentrations Factor Value [Ref. 1, p. 51621].

======Level II Concentrations Factor Value: 0.03

4.1.3.3.2.3 Potential Human Food Chain Contamination

There is a fishery subject to Level II contamination; therefore, Potential Human Food Chain Contamination is not scored.

======Potential Human Food Chain Contamination Factor Value: NS