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Site Report: KPC Ward Cove Pulp Mill

Site Name: KPC Ward Cove Pulp Mill
Address: Mile 7.5 N. Tongass Hwy., Ward Cove, AK 99928
File Number: 1540.38.001
Hazard ID: 412
Status: Cleanup Complete - Institutional Controls
Staff: Nick Waldo, 9074655270 nick.waldo@alaska.gov
Latitude: 55.406360
Longitude: -131.729450
Horizontal Datum:NAD83

We make every effort to ensure the data presented here is accurate based on the best available information currently on file with DEC. It is therefore subject to change as new information becomes available. We recommend contacting the assigned project staff prior to making decisions based on this information.

Problems/Comments

The pulp mill site consists of the industrialized complex where pulping and milling has occurred as well as related facilities such as the KPC landfill and other contaminated areas where hazardous substances from the complex have migrated and potentially pose a threat to public health or the environment. The site is divided into an Upland Operable Unit and a Marine Operable Unit which is being addressed by EPA under terms of a Consent Decree. Last staff assigned at NFRAP was Janes EPA ID AKD009252230; EPA site name Ketchican Pulp Company.

Action Information

Action Date Action Description DEC Staff
7/1/1977 Notice of Violation NOV of 1975 variance and April, 1976 compliance schedule - action deferred. Former Staff
6/1/1980 Update or Other Action EPA/CERCLIS Site Discovery, CERCLIS ID # AKD009252230. Bruce Wanstall
7/1/1980 Notice of Violation Several NOV's issued (July, December, 1980) for visible emissions. Former Staff
10/23/1980 Update or Other Action (Old R:Base Action Code = PER - Permit Action at Site). NPDES permit #AK-000092-2 issued. Former Staff
4/30/1981 Update or Other Action (Old R:Base Action Code = PER - Permit Action at Site). Expiration of permit #AK-000092-2. Former Staff
1/1/1984 Update or Other Action (Old R:Base Action Code = PER - Permit Action at Site). NPDES permit #AK000092-2 issued. Former Staff
3/28/1984 Preliminary Assessment Approved On site inspection performed. Estimated quantity of 702 tons of solvents (chloroform), 11.7 tons naphthalene, 97 tons chromium discharged since mill operation began. 157 ppb chromium, 0.08 pounds/day lead, 64 ppb methylene chloride, 1136 ppb chloroform, and 19 ppb naphthalene detected in outfall from mill. Reported spills of at least 435 gallons diesel or hydraulic fluid from 1974 to 1981. Former Staff
8/21/1984 Update or Other Action Initial EPA Site Inspection, Expanded Site Inspection on 7/21/97. Bruce Wanstall
10/31/1988 Update or Other Action (Old R:Base Action Code = PER - Permit Action at Site). Expiration of permit #AK-000092-2. Former Staff
8/2/1989 Site Characterization Report Approved (Old R:Base Action Code = SI - Site Investigation). Jones and Stokes Associates, Inc., "Ward Cove Water Quality Assessment." Former Staff
4/20/1990 Site Ranked Using the AHRM Initial ranking. Ranking later updated in 1996. Former Staff
8/26/1993 Site Added to Database Added by staff. Former Staff
10/8/1993 Update or Other Action (Old R:Base Action Code = SA2 - Phase II Site Assessment (General)). Former Staff
10/11/1996 Site Ranked Using the AHRM Score deleted per request of project manager due to insufficient data. Bill Janes
10/11/1996 Update or Other Action Interim stockpile approval granted for soils excavated from railroad area. Corrective action plan submitted for biocell siting at the on-site landfill. Concurrence given from the solid waste program provided treatment does not commence prior to landfill modification approvals. Sally Schlichting
7/10/1997 Site Characterization Workplan Approved (Old R:Base Action Code = MPA - Management Plan Approval). Final RI/FS Scoping Document issued. Ron Klein
8/4/1997 Update or Other Action Draft Early Action Sampling and Analysis Plan for petroleum contaminated soils approved. Ron Klein
9/8/1997 Site Characterization Workplan Approved (Old R:Base Action Code = SA2A - Phase II SA Approval / Release Investigation). Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study Work Plan approved RPM. Ron Klein
10/7/1997 Update or Other Action Community involvement plan for the mill site issued. Ron Klein
11/28/1997 Update or Other Action The justification field was changed to yes to reflect the elevation to high priority for this site, despite that there is no recorded score. Score was deleted due to insufficient data. Ron Klein
4/28/1998 Site Ranked Using the AHRM Site re-ranked. Score acheived. Ron Klein
7/31/1998 Update or Other Action Arsenic Management Plan released. The topsoil as it was fabricated by the landfill contractor can be used as a landfill cover without exceeding acceptable risk levels. If additional imported topsoil is needed, and the contractor needs to use mineral fines other than their current overburden, testing for arsenic should be required. The topsoil arsenic concentration should be less than 275 mg/kg, which would result in a cancer risk estimate of 5´10–5. Although, this level allows for additional risk contributions from other chemicals, there would be no other apparent sources of cancer risk from site-related CoPCs on the final landfill cover. Crushed rock products that contain fines (e.g., D1, 1.5‑in.‑minus, and 3‑in.‑minus) should not be used as the final cover for ground surfaces at the KPC site if the arsenic concen­tration is greater than 700 mg/kg. This would be equivalent to an excess cancer risk of 8´10–5. A worker exposed to this amount of arsenic in rock products for 25 years could also be exposed to other site-related carcinogens (if any) at a risk equivalent to 2´10–5 before the worker’s cumulative risk would exceed the trigger level of 1´10–4 (i.e., 8´10–5 and 2´10–5 would be 1´10–4). Bill Janes
9/15/1998 Interim Removal Action Approved Early Action Cleanup Plan for Railroad Tracks/Compressor Area approved. Ron Klein
10/30/1998 Risk Assessment Report Approved Uplands Operable Unit RI (includes human health and ecological risk assessment) issued. Ron Klein
10/30/1998 Site Characterization Report Approved Uplands Operable Unit RI issued. Ron Klein
1/22/1999 Interim Removal Action Approved Early Action Cleanup Plan Approved for Bulk Fuel Tank Area. Ron Klein
2/24/1999 Interim Removal Action Approved Early Action Cleanup Plan approved for Paint/Maintenance Shop. Ron Klein
4/22/1999 Interim Removal Action Approved Early Action Cleanup Plan approved for Water Pipeline Storage Area. Ron Klein
5/17/1999 Proposed Plan Proposed Plan issued for public comment. Ron Klein
10/8/1999 Update or Other Action Discussed draft deed restrictions with Reges. Need to file by next week as property is to be transferred to Gateway. Bill Janes
10/11/1999 Update or Other Action Bill Janes designated as RPM effective 10/22/99. Ron Klein is former RPM. Ron Klein
10/28/1999 Meeting or Teleconference Held Teleconference with Hogarty on status of PCB cleanup along water pipeline. Hot spot of about 100 ppm PCBs still needs to be removed. Contamination may also extend downslope but not yet confirmed. See hand drawn diagram - 10/25/99 fax from KPC. Bill Janes
10/28/1999 Site Characterization Workplan Approved Supplemental soil sampling at railroad tracks and retaining wall areas. Draft plan verbally approved following teleconference with Hogarty. No changes. Confirmed with Marcia Combes at EPA. Bill Janes
10/29/1999 Update or Other Action IC Plan reviewed. Comments incorporated with EPA comments and sent back to Combes. Bill Janes
11/22/1999 Meeting or Teleconference Held Klein and Janes met with Exponent, EPA, and KPC in Seattle to discuss IC comments, early actions, and other issues. Marcia Combes to draft ROD strawman by the end of December. Janes to take over on coordinating comments and refining ROD. Bill Janes
12/8/1999 Meeting or Teleconference Held Teleconference to discuss residual lead and PCB problems at pipeline area 2. Notes in file. Bill Janes
1/7/2000 Update or Other Action Institutional Control Plan and Paint Shop Report reviews; email Diane Soderlund with comments on ICP. Bill Janes
1/12/2000 Meeting or Teleconference Held Teleconference with EPA, KPC, Exponent to discuss ROD status, GW issues, arsenic risks to aquatic receptors, cistern cleanout, and pipeline property ownership and potential ICs. Bill Janes
4/14/2000 Update or Other Action Reviewed and provided comments to EPA on draft ROD. Comments are in G:\SPAR\Spar-Contaminated Sites\KPC\COMMENTS\ROD.doc. Bill Janes
5/5/2000 Meeting or Teleconference Held Teleconference with EPA, KPC, Exponent to discuss additional comments on IC Plan. ROD update - Dianne Soderlund's goal is to have signatures by end of May. Bill Janes
6/9/2000 Record of Decision Lynn signed today. Will send signature pages to Dianne at EPA on Monday. Bill Janes
6/9/2000 Institutional Control Record Established IC Plan referenced in ROD. Bill Janes
6/9/2000 Conditional Closure Approved No Further Remedial Action Planned as of this date. Bill Janes
9/7/2000 Update or Other Action Reviewed plat alteration request for woodwaste landfill; drafted letter to Gateway Borough. Bill Janes
11/14/2000 Update or Other Action Approval to transport contaminated sediments to South Coast for stockpiling and eventual incorporation into asphalt issued to KPC via email. Bill Janes
11/15/2000 Update or Other Action Post ROD actions for the Ward Cove sediment remediation project (EPA lead) for approvals under our regulations will be posted. Bill Janes
11/17/2000 Update or Other Action Call from Barry H. - Dredged sediment not suitable for asphalt. Will instead be taken to Dawson Point Landfill per the approval of Glenn Miller. Bill Janes
7/20/2001 Update or Other Action Teleconference with Daugherty regarding KPC request for Certifcate of Completion for the 1997Administrative Order on Consent. A few additional refinements were made and document will be sent to me for routing to Commissioner's Office for signature next week. Bill Janes
8/6/2001 Update or Other Action Certificate of Completion signed and distributed to EPA, KPC, LP for signature and distribution of signature pages to other parties. Bill Janes
8/23/2001 Update or Other Action Report received from Gateway Forest Products documenting sampling and excavation activities on property from December 1999 thru June 15 2000. Bill Janes
9/17/2001 Update or Other Action Estimated Date - Modify when copy received. Mangement Right Assignment for Dawson Point Landfill Environmental Easement signed by Dietrick. This gives ADEC the right to implement the terms and conditions of the institutional control. ADEC is essentially the agent for DNR. Bill Janes
9/18/2001 Update or Other Action Provided comments to EPA on draft Ward Cove natural recovery monitoring plan. Similarities and differences between the Sawmill Cove natural recovery monitoring and the proposed monitoring plan for Ward Cove. Both use a "weight of evidence" and an "adaptive management" approach, whereby decisisons will be based on a combination of factors such as sediment chemistry and benthic community analyses, and whereby the results from a monitoring event will help refine the subsequent monitoring event. Both divide the Area of Concern into strata by water depth and thickness of organic deposits. For Ward Cove neither SPI nor video/still photography is proposed. These are primary elements in the Sawmill Cove approach and in fact during the next event we may drop the benthic community analyses altogether and rely entirely on SPI. Could SPI be worked into the Ward Cove plan or are there reasons it is not being considered? Ward Cove will compare to reference stations: we decided this could not be done in Sitka easily so we dropped it. Ward Cove will use sediment toxicity bioassay tests. We decided not to rely on bioassays in Sitka because we believed the in-situ methods would be more definitive. There are a few differences in the statistics, but the indices that will be evaluated are similar. Ward Cove will rely on sediment conventional chemistry just as we did in Sitka. However, we dropped 4-methylphenol because once it was carbon-normalized it turned out to be a non-issue. Bill Janes
2/12/2002 Update or Other Action January 31 letter from Solid Waste to KPC modifying post-closure sampling parameters and frequency at the landfill. Letter in site file. Bill Janes
8/14/2003 Update or Other Action Notification from KPC regarding instruments of conveyance from KPC to the Ketchikan Gateway Borough for transfer of some parcels to the Borough Bill Janes
7/15/2004 Update or Other Action Updated Environmental Easement and Declaration of Covenants filed between KGB and KPC. This version of the environmental covenant replaces the 1999 version. (Action added during a July 26, 2019 file review. Reese) In this covenant the Borough agrees that it shall comply with any Institutional Controls which are or may become applicable to the Ward Cove Property, including those imposed through, or under the Ward Cove Consent Decree, or otherwise. And the Borough agrees that it shall not, through any activities or operations materially damage any cap or capping materials that may be applied to sediments in the Ward Cove Area under the Ward Cove Consent Decree. The Borough further covenants and agrees that if it damages such cap, it will immediately report the relevant circumstances to EPA and KPC and restore the cap to a condition and to specifications as directed by the EPA or by any governmental body having primary regulatory jurisdiction over the work undertaken by KPC under the Ward Cove Consent Decree, but the Borough and KPC will be under no obligation to restore the cap until directed to do so by the EPA or other governmental body having jurisdiction. (III. B. of Covenant) Evonne Reese
5/9/2005 Site Visit 5-Year Review site vist with EPA rep. and the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. Reviewed protectiveness of institutional controls and the Borough's record keeping. EPA to draft report by first week in June. Bill Janes
7/5/2005 Update or Other Action Solid Waste Program issues changes to the Dawson Point Landfill monitoring program per a request from KPC. Bill Janes
7/11/2005 Update or Other Action The 2004 Monitoring Report for Sediment Remediation in Ward Cove, Alaska, was recently completed by Exponent. At locations where new sand was placed in a thin layer on the bottom of Ward Cove a few years ago, toxicity to bottom dwelling species has decreased and overall species numbers and diversity have increased. The bottom dwelling community in these locations is now very similar to reference locations. Most of the natural recovery areas are not doing as well. Bill Janes
8/4/2005 Update or Other Action The Five-Year Review Report was recently completed by EPA. For the Marine unit, the remedial action is complete and progress is being made towards achieving remedial action objectives. No issues or follow-up actions were identified as a result of the five-year review process. The remedy is protective of human health and the environment; long-term monitoring will continue. For the Uplands unit, institutional controls (ICs) and Restrictive Covenants remain in effect. These ICs and Restrictive Covenants remain effective and protective due to the responsible stewardship of Ketchikan Pulp Company and the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. Remaining issues include the need for recording easements and covenants on parcels of land in the pipeline corridor, recently acquired by the Borough, and future easements and covenants on approximately three acres of land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, to be transferred to the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. Bill Janes
5/25/2006 Update or Other Action Received acknowledgment that Tract 3019 has been sold to Power Systems & Supplies of Alaska LLC. The buyer assumes the environmental protection easement and declaration of restrictive covenants - record #2006-001876-0. Evonne Reese
5/31/2006 Update or Other Action Received Equitable Servitude and Easement from Dept. of Law for three parcels. They are:: (1) 3.09 acre parcel located at T 74 S, R 90 E, Copper River Meridian, Section 34; Lot 1 - record #2006-001706-0 (2) U.S. Survey 3400 and a portion of U.S. Survey 2923 (outlined in detail in the form) - record #2006-001707-0. Also received from Dept. of Law a Subordination Agreement dated 5/1/2006 - record #2006-001708-0. Evonne Reese
6/9/2006 Update or Other Action Received Correction to Equitable Servitude and Easement - record #2006-002278-0. Ketchikan Gateway Borough sold land parcels USS 3400 and a portion of USS 2923 to Renaissance Ketchikan Group LLC and the buyers will assume the Equitable Servitude and Easement already established in record #2006-001707-0. The Warranty Deed for this transaction is record #2006-01753-0 and the Deed of Trust record is #2006-001754-0. Evonne Reese
8/29/2006 Update or Other Action Received notice from Ketchikan Gateway Borough that Tract 3017 and portions of USS 1508, 1208 and a portion of Alaska Tidelands Survey #1 has been sold to a another party. The Warranty Deed record number is 2006-003293-0. Evonne Reese
9/25/2006 Update or Other Action Rep. from Rennaissance Ketchikan Group called. The company has bought all parcels from the Borough. Company plans to build a fishing lodge on Lot 1, Tract 3004 of the Dawson Point Subdivision. This lot is not subject to the institutional controls that apply to Lot 2, which contains the wood waste landfill. Bill Janes
6/6/2007 Update or Other Action Renniassance Ketchikan group proposes a 425 foot utilities trench between the former sawmill and inactive Gateway Forest Products veneer mill. Sampling must meet the requirements of the IC Plan. Bill Janes
2/4/2008 Update or Other Action The 2007 Ward Cove sediment remediation monitoring report received. Conditions throughout the Ward Cove AOC have improved since the RI/FS was conducted in 1996−1997. In addition, most conditions showed continual improvement between 2004 and 2007. Thin layer placement (TLP) has been successful in eliminating sediment toxicity and stimulating colonization of benthic macroinvertebrate species such that diverse communities comprising multiple taxa now inhabit most parts of the TLP areas, and exhibit enhanced characteristics beyond those of the reference areas. In addition, recovery is proceeding in the natural recovery areas, such that two of those areas have reduced sediment toxicity and benthic community characteristics similar to the reference areas. Bill Janes
9/30/2009 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Received the Sediment Remediation in Ward Cove Marine Operable Unit report. This is the Final Remediation Action Report. (This action was added during a file review on July 18, 2019. (Reese)) Evonne Reese
1/21/2010 Update or Other Action Certificate of Completion letter sent by EPA to KPC for the Marine Operable Unit. The letter states that all consent decree requirements have been performed and the Remedial Action Objectives have been achieved. This does not affect KPC's remaining obligations to conduct monitoring at the landfill or enforce institutional controls. Bill Janes
5/24/2010 Site Visit 5-year review site visit with EPA Bill Janes
4/18/2011 Update or Other Action Notification received this date from Ketchikan Gateway Borough that the Ward Cove properties, former site of the Ketchikan Pulp Company mill, were purchased by Power Systems & Supplies of Alaska, LLC. Properties transferred pursuant to the purchase and sale agreement include Parcels 1 through 12. The purchaser is aware and willing to undertake each and all of the obligations associated with the institutional controls, easements and covenants, and the terms of the 2003 Settlement Agreement between the Seller (Ketchikan Gateway Borough) and Ketchikan Pulp Company. Bill Janes
8/8/2011 Update or Other Action In 2010 the Ketchikan Gateway Borough requested partial release from the 1999 Environmental Easement and Restrictive Covenants with respect to certain marine tidelands with ATS 1. Following lengthy negotiations the Deparment of Law sent the Borough the parcel release for signature. The partial release only applies to the restrictions set forth in paragraph 8(g). Bill Janes
8/28/2011 CERCLA ROD Periodic Review EPA second five-year review report Bill Janes
10/26/2011 Update or Other Action Partial Release document provided to SPAR Director for signature. Bill Janes
10/27/2011 Update or Other Action Call from Stephanie Gould at USKH in Anchorage. Sampling and analysis plan for wastewater utility trenching associated with the Marine Highways project will be ready next summer. The Marine Highways project manager is Cliff Carrol. Bill Janes
12/28/2011 Update or Other Action Ward Cove Industries purchased the KPC property from the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. In addition to a homeport for commercial fishing vessels, the new owners are are planning for an industrial hub in the gateway to Alaska that will also serve the oil and gas, mining, transportation, tourism and timber industries. Read more: http://www.alaskajournal.com/Alaska-Journal-of-Commerce/AJOC-January-8-2012/Spokelys-envision-international-business-hub-at-Ward-Cove/#ixzz28wP2kS00 Bill Janes
1/13/2012 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Sampling and Analysis Plan for utility trenching and the oil water separator received from Dan Jones, PE. I asked for metals sampling of the oil/water separator sludge, and specification on screening level concentrations that will be used. Bill Janes
1/30/2012 Update or Other Action Sampling plan with requested modifications, received on January 20,approved this date. Bill Janes
2/2/2012 Update or Other Action On January 12, 2012 DEC received from a notice of the sale and transfer of Ketchikan Gateway Borough’s interest and ownership in the Ward Cove Properties to Power Systems & Supplies of Alaska (PSSA). Along with this notice are copies of two different Deeds of Trust which have been filed in the Ketchikan recording district and the Alaska Pacific Bank’s requisite acknowledgement to be bound by the July 14, 2003 Agreement and the notice provision that the transaction was subject to the Environmental Protection Easement and declaration of Restrictive Covenants, dated October 28, 1999. Kristin Thompson
4/3/2012 Update or Other Action Received notification from the DOT&PF contract engineer, Dan Jones, P.E. that installation of the new sanitary sewer pipeline is proceeding. A small volume of potentially contaminated soil was excavated from one area and stockpiled pending test results and ultimate disposition. Approval given to backfill the area with clean material. Also, Dan sent his report and proposal for disposal of water and sludge from the oil/water separtor to the DOT&PF resident engineer, Cliff Carroll. It will come to DEC and EPA after he has a chance to review. Bill Janes
7/26/2013 Update or Other Action Received notification from Power Systems and Supplies of Alaska that the Log Sort Yard was leased to Alcan Forest Products. Bill Janes
7/26/2013 Update or Other Action Received notice from Power Systems and Supplies of Alaska that they leased 1800 square feet of the south corner of the Mechanic Building, 4 parking spaces, and 200 square feet of adjacent storage to Alaska Welding and Repair, LLC Bill Janes
8/4/2013 Update or Other Action The Corps of Engineers provided approval to R&M Consultants, on behalf of DOT&PF, to conduct geotechnical drilling in Ward Cove in support of upgrading the Marine Highways facility. Bill Janes
8/12/2013 Meeting or Teleconference Held DOT&PF Ferry System marine facility permitting meeting with DOT, EPA, Corps of Engineers, Water Divission, and URS (the consulting firm). The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the draft dredge material sampling and analysis plan. A revised plan is expected soon based on the discussion. Bill Janes
8/27/2013 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Power Systems and Supplies of Alaska that Elliott Bay Design Group has leased a 14' by 16' office on the lower level of unit 118-A. Bill Janes
9/16/2013 Update or Other Action Received notification from Power Systems and Supplies of AK that that new leases were entered into with Remote Made Easy LLC, Ward Cove Industries LLC and Full Cycle LLC. Bill Janes
10/23/2013 Update or Other Action Received notification from Power Systems and Supplies of AK regarding a Right of Entry Agreement with ADOT&PF for drilling test holes on "Bolles Ledge" near the property Alaska Marine Highways property line. Bill Janes
10/23/2013 Update or Other Action Received notification from Power Systems and Supplies of AK that that a new lease was entered into with Peter Bennison for moorage of the MV Modoc, a 142' vessel. Bill Janes
11/8/2013 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Dredge Material and Sampling Analysis Plan received. This plan is to support the expansion of the Alaska Marine Highways facility. The objectivs are to gather physical and chemical data of the material planned to be dredged at Bolles Ledge, at the planned mooring and breasting dolphins and floating dock, and the planned bulkhead fill area at the head of Ward Cove. The design is intended to provide adequate information to determine whether the material is suitable for upland disposal or beneficial reuse. Geotechnical field work is to commence 11/11/13. Bill Janes
6/3/2014 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy (owner of former KPC property) that the Environmental Protection Easement details were supplied to the new property tenants. Evonne Reese
4/1/2015 Institutional Control Update Contacted EPA by email to see what they need from us to start the five-year review process. Evonne Reese
4/29/2015 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy that two parcels at Ward Cove been leased recently, one to AAB Boom Truck Company and one to Pacific Airways. Both businesses were made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Evonne Reese
5/19/2015 Potentially Responsible Party/State Interest Letter PRP letter issued to the responsible party on this date in order to track oversight of the IC requirements. Evonne Reese
5/29/2015 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy that Building 401, Unit 103 was leased to a construction and fabrication shop. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Evonne Reese
6/2/2015 Site Visit The five-year review site inspection was conducted June 2nd. Evonne Reese
9/25/2015 Institutional Control Compliance Review The Five-Year review report was completed by EPA during this past summer and was signed on September 21, 2015. The current remedies (ICs) at the Marine and Uplands Operable Unit (OU) and sitewide were found to be protective of human health and the environment. The next five-year review will be due by the end of August 2020. A partial copy of the document is available in the Documents section of this database record. For a complete copy of the five-year review document please contact DEC. Evonne Reese
12/14/2015 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy that the Units 101, 101A and 101B of the Administration Building located at 7559 N. Tongass Hwy has been leased to a real estate business. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Evonne Reese
1/11/2016 Institutional Control Update I provided approval to the landowners to use about 18,000 cubic yards of coarsely crushed concrete for road building in the updands area of the property. Evonne Reese
12/16/2016 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy that USS 1056, former KPC Mill, Building 401, Suite 102 (aka center bay of old pumphouse) has been leased to a private party. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Evonne Reese
1/27/2017 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy that a contiguous 3,000 SF portion of Warehouse No. 1 has been leased to a private company. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Kristin Thompson
3/15/2017 Institutional Control Compliance Review IC compliance review conducted. Kristin Thompson
4/14/2017 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy that a portion of US 1056, formerly known as the Ketchikan Pulp Mill, has been leased to Lighthouse Excursions, Inc. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Kristin Thompson
4/14/2017 Institutional Control Update Received notification from Remote Made Easy that 6841 North Tongass Highway, Units 102 and the lower front office and kitchen area of Unit 101 has been leased to the Ketchikan Gymnastics Club. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Kristin Thompson
9/6/2018 Update or Other Action Received notification from Remote Made Easy that 7663 N.Highway, Building 401, Suite 103 (aka right bay of old pumphouse) has been leased to the Artisan Traditions. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Evonne Reese
10/1/2018 Update or Other Action Contaminated Sites received a copy of a report titled Comprehensive Landfill Monitoring Plan dated September 25, 2018 which is targeted to the ADEC Solid Water and ADEC Water Division in regards to the solid waste permit and also the APDES permit. This report replaces the August 4, 2006 plan. (This database action was added on July 18, 2019 during a file review. (Reese)) Evonne Reese
10/16/2018 Update or Other Action Received notification from Remote Made Easy that 7457 N. Tongass Highway, Building 600, Suite 101 (aka 600 Building) has been leased to the SEAMS. The lessee was made aware of the provisions of the 1999 easement and restrictive covenant. Evonne Reese
7/17/2019 Institutional Control Update The 2020 5-year review inspection is scheduled for July 25, 2019. The reason the physical inspection is happening earlier than expected is so that the actual report can be issued by early summer 2020. In attendance at the inspection will be representatives from the EPA, DEC, EPA's contractor, and also the landowners. Evonne Reese
7/25/2019 Site Visit E. Reese and S. Schlichting conducted a joint inspection of the site with EPA for the 2020 CERCLA Five Year Review. The visit included the Connell Lake Dam and Pipeline, the KPC Landfill, and the former mill area of the Upland Operable Unit, including the AMHS facility, and shoreline areas of the Marine Operable Unit. Present in addition to EPA and its contractors were: representatives from PSSA; KPC/Louisiana Pacific; and ADOT&PF. In addition, attorneys for each party were also present. Sally Schlichting
11/22/2019 Institutional Control Compliance Review A letter documenting the institutional controls in effect for this site, along with notification procedures and DEC observations from the CERCLA 5-year review inspection was issued to PSSA, other landholders and associated parties. Sally Schlichting
12/4/2019 Institutional Control Update Received the draft site characterization work plan for the Uplands areas to be developed on this date. Evonne Reese
1/17/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other ADEC has received the document titled "Ward Cove Cruise Ship Dock Project Benthic Monitoring Sampling and Analysis Plan" dated January 10, 2020. ADEC’s review is in process but not complete. ADEC does not have any comments on the plan at this time, but does note that the plan appears to mimic the 2007 work, with the addition of sediment profile imaging. Sampling and imagery will begin in two days. Kara Kusche
1/21/2020 Institutional Control Update The Alaska District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Permit number POA-2019-00313 was finalized and issued on this date. This permit provides the authorization the constructions of a two-berth cruise ship dock in Ward Cove under Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. The USACE permit cover letter includes that all other Federal, State, or local statutes, ordinances, or regulations must be complied with. Evonne Reese
1/29/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other The Uplands Site Characterization work plan has been reviewed by ADEC staff and comments were provided to the landowners and their consultants. Evonne Reese
1/30/2020 Meeting or Teleconference Held A teleconference meeting was held on this date with the landowners, the project coordinators, consultants, and contractors regarding the Uplands work plan and ADEC's comments. Evonne Reese
2/21/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other The Uplands site characterization revision report was received on this date by DEC. Evonne Reese
3/10/2020 Institutional Control Update Received notification that the Army Corps of Engineers issued permit POS-2019-00166-M1 which allows the construction of a dock extension for barge loading in Ward Cove. This dock will be south of the planned cruise ship docks. Also included in the permit is the State of Alaska 401 certificate which includes specifics about the contaminated site history in Ward Cove. This document has been attached in this database record and is available for public viewing. Evonne Reese
3/12/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other ADEC reviews and provides comment on the revised "Site Characterization Work Plan" for the uplands area. This work plan proposes activity in Areas D, E, N, and O. Kara Kusche
3/25/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other ADEC issues additional and minor comments on the revised "Site Characterization Work Plan" for the uplands area. Kara Kusche
3/27/2020 Site Characterization Workplan Approved ADEC approves the document titled "Site Characterization Work Plan" dated February 2020, and most recently revised on March 27, 2020. The work plan focuses on activities relating to Areas D, E, N, and O. Implementation is expected to begin right away. Kara Kusche
5/6/2020 Update or Other Action Project proponents submit to ADEC "Cruise Vessel Maneuvering Guidelines" that they will use for cruise ships docking in Ward Cove. The plan may evolve as needed. The plan outlines best practices regarding wind limits, bow-in, speed, angle, power, turning, and anchoring. Kara Kusche
6/10/2020 Institutional Control Update DEC has received the 2020 Benthic Monitoring Technical Review report. The report will be reviewed in the near future. Evonne Reese
9/1/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other The 2020 4th Five-Year Review Report was issued this data by EPA. A copy of this document is attached to this database record. Evonne Reese
12/2/2020 Institutional Control Update Received the Ward Cove Site Characterization Report on this date. Evonne Reese
12/4/2020 Institutional Control Update Received raw data in an Excel spreadsheet format from water quality sampling during dock construction. We are hoping that a report summarizing the data findings will follow. Evonne Reese
5/25/2021 Update or Other Action EPA sends Ketchikan Pulp Company a letter re Five Year Review recommendations. Recommendations include more evaluation of the 2020 pre-construction sampling event, and developing a monitoring proposal for the sand cap and monitored natural recovery areas. Kara Kusche
5/28/2021 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other ADEC provides comments on the document titled "Final Site Characterization Report" dated December 2020. This report documents excavation, screening, and sampling work in Areas D and O. Analytical samples were taken for GRO, DRO, RRO, PAHs, and VOCs, and all results were below both migration to groundwater and human health cleanup levels. Kara Kusche
8/18/2021 Update or Other Action EPA sends letter to parties responding to their 7/16/21 letter. EPA notes that the parties agree to move forward with 5 year review recommendations and requests that the parties also enter into an Administrative Settlement Agreement and Order on Consent (ASAOC). Kara Kusche
8/29/2021 Update or Other Action Ward Cove sends letter dated 8/29/21 to EPA. The letters indicates that Ward Cove will move forward with EPA's recommendations/requests following the last 5-year review. Kara Kusche
1/3/2022 Meeting or Teleconference Held DEC, EPA, and a consultant for Ward Cove meet to discuss planned updates to the 2000 Institutional Controls Plan. Nick Waldo
11/21/2022 Institutional Control Update DEC approved the 2022 Institutional Control Plan Amendment: Uplands Operable Unit. This document describes how all applicable ICs will be complied with, and supersedes the 2000 IC Plan. Nick Waldo

Contaminant Information

Name Level Description Media Comments
Arsenic - Total > Human Health/Ingestion/Inhalation Soil
PCBs - Total > Human Health/Ingestion/Inhalation Soil
Dioxins - Total > Human Health/Ingestion/Inhalation Soil

Control Type

Type Details
Equitable Servitude

Requirements

Description Details
Groundwater Use Restrictions The drilling of water wells and use of groundwater is prohibited.
Restricted to Industrial / Commercial Land Use No residential use (round the clock use) or daily use by children, which includes childcare centers.
Excavation / Soil Movement Restrictions Must comply with the arsenic managment plan. On a five-year review schedule. The first one was completed June 2005.
Maintenance / Inspection Of Engineering Controls Maintain the sediment cap at the bottom of Ward Cove. If the cap areas are damaged, they must be repaired. The sediment cap was placed in designated areas within the Area of Concern. The entire Area of Concern is subject to this institutional control requirement. EPA will determine the methods needed to assess the magnitude of the damage or disruption of the cap.
Advance approval required to transport soil or groundwater off-site. Standard condition.
Movement or use of contaminated material (including on site) in a manner that results in a violation of the water quality standards is prohibited (18 AAC 70) Standard condition.
Periodic Review A detailed review will be completed in conjunction with EPA every five years.
When Contaminated Soil is Accessible, Remediation Should Occur Identify and address source areas (if any) during demolition and excavation activities using applicable or relevant and appropriate requirements such as current risk-based concentrations or standards and criteria.
When Contaminated Soil is Accessible, Remediation Should Occur Properly characterize and manage soils from the near-shore fill subarea or underneath paved areas or structures and from other locations not evaluated or characterized in the remedial investigation of those soils are excavated.
Other Comply with the Arsenic Management Plan to reduce exposure to arsenic in soil and rock.

No associated sites were found.

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State of Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation

P.O. Box 111800
Juneau, AK 99811-1800
Phone: 907-465-5066
Fax: 907-465-5245
TDD: 800-770-8973
Physical Location: 410 Willoughby