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Site Report: Cape Romanzof LRRS SS016_017 Former Tramway

Site Name: Cape Romanzof LRRS SS016_017 Former Tramway
Address: Cape Romanzof, Scammon Bay, AK 99662
File Number: 2526.38.015
Hazard ID: 4129
Status: Active
Staff: Axl LeVan, 9074512156 axl.levan@alaska.gov
Latitude: 61.784702
Longitude: -165.946675
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

Petroleum based lubricating oil and transformer oil containing PCBs were used on the cables at the tramway for both the upper and lower tramway terminals. Visible soil staining is present. Total extent of contamination and risk to human health and the environment is unknown. Former air force site names:ROM-1D is now LF12, ROM-1S is now SS13, ROM-2 is now SS10 Weather Station Wells Number 2 and 3 plus Spill Site #4 (Combined with ST09, SS14 and POIs 5 and 6 for Zone 3), ROM-3 is now SS07, ROM-4 is now OT05, ROM-5 is now LF04, ROM-6 is now SS01 Waste Accumulation Area #2, ROM-7 is now DP11 Dump Areas (includes OT06 in zone 1 a.k.a. Upper Camp), ROM-8 is now LF003, ROM-9 is now LF02 Landfill #1 (includes SS01, LF03, LF04, OT05, SS07, SS08, LF12, SS13, SS15, POIs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 9 a.k.a. Zone 2 or Lower Camp), ROM-10 is now ST09 ROM-11 is now OT06 White Alice Sites. ROM-12 is now SS14. Update 12/1/2021: As of the 2016 RA PCB was remaining on the site both Capped and Uncapped at the surface down to 2 ft bgs. Other cells were capped with liner and clean fill until further removal efforts. DEC approved 2021 work to continue the removal after demolition of the tram buildings and removal of power lines preventing removals. A report on this removal is expected in 2022.

Action Information

Action Date Action Description DEC Staff
1/31/2000 Update or Other Action Final Environmental Survey Report for preliminary assessment/site inspection of Tramway Facilities & soil stockpile sampling. Facilities: Cape Newenham, Cape Romanzof (CRLRRS), & Tin City Long Range Radar Sites. Historically, cables associated with the tramways were lubricated with petroleum-based oils. The use of petroleum based oils has been discontinued & vegetable based oils are now used to lubricate the tramway cables. 9 samples associated with the tramway were collected at CRLRRS The samples consisted of 3 surface soil samples from the upper terminal area, 4 surface soil samples from the lower terminal area, & one background sample collected near the lower tram terminal. All tram terminal soil samples & the background sample were analyzed for RRO, DRO, GRO, BTEX, & barium. One sample from each of the upper & lower tram terminal areas was analyzed for ignitability & TCLP VOCs. The background sample was also analyzed for TOC, dry bulk density, & grain size distribution (sieve analysis). One duplicate (QC) sample was collected. Results indicate that GRO, BTEX & barium are not COCs. RRO, DRO & PCBs were detected above regulatory limits (2000 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg & 1 mg/kg). PID screening results do not appear to correlate with lab analytical results for RRO or DRO. Highest PID reading was 11.5 ppm & analytical results for sample SS09 was 1,200 mg/kg DRO, 2.6 mg/kg PCB, 470 mg/kg RRO. Highest level of RRO 26,000 mg/kg, 12,000 mg/kg, 49 mg/kg PCB DRO was above regulatory criteria in soil no visibly stained. Therefore PID readings & visual observations were NOT adequate indicators for delineating the extent of soil contamination. Most likely the PCB-contaminated oil was inadvertently used to oil the tramway cables on isolated occasions. Oil from these events probably dripped randomly within the bigger petroleum contaminated area, such that PCB could be present above regulatory criteria throughout. Although some samples with moderate petroleum contamination have PCBs below the regulatory cleanup criteria, it is assumed that segregation of PCB & non-PCB waste will be unfeasible. The contaminated soil qualifies as TSCA PCB waste & is recommended for removal. High PCB levels in most of the contaminated soils at CRLRRS prevent on-site treatment of these soils. Recommended remediation strategy includes: 1. Excavation & containerization of contaminated soil. 2. Field sampling using immunoassay field test kits for the COCs, PCBs, & petroleum hydrocarbons (DRO & RRO). 3. Off-site disposal of contaminated soil as a non-hazardous PCB waste. Upon excavation, contaminated soils may be segregated into PCB & non-PCB soils using field test kits, if desired. The costs of testing & segregating soils in the field (*and the detection level of test kits not being accurate enough to meet the cleanup level of 1 mg/kg) should be balanced with the cost of transporting & disposing of all soils as PCB waste. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
9/5/2002 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Email approval of work plan for PCB Soil cleanup levels at Cape Romanzof LRRS Tram Trestle site sent to Mike Rhoads with the 611th CES. The PCB cleanup level of 10 mg/kg in soil for the tram trestle site using "current promulgated" State cleanup regulations (18 AAC 75 effective July 11, 2002). However, be aware there are revised regulations under legal review that will lower the cleanup level in soil for PCBs to 1 mg/kg in soil. This more stringent cleanup level for PCBs will not discriminate between: low or high occupancy, residential or commercial land use and most importantly depth of PCB contamination in the soil. That being said, paint chips by themselves containing PCBs of 5 mg/kg are not covered under State contaminated sites regulations at this present date and time. It appears that the tram trestle area would be a "low occupancy" scenario under TSCA and the Air Force would have to comply with any and all federal laws pertaining to PCBs for any potential notification to US EPA Region 10 Staff* and (if necessary) disposal issues. Please note, DEC review and concurrence on this workplan is to ensure that the work is done in accordance with State of AK environmental conservation laws and regulations. While the Department may comment on other state and federal laws and regulations, our concurrence does not relieve the AF, its contractors or their subcontractors, or civilian personnel working for the AF from the need to comply with other applicable federal laws and regulations regarding PCBs. Louis Howard
3/31/2003 Update or Other Action Final Project Summary Report for Project No. CEOS-99-2024Z1: PCB Contaminated Soil Removal and Disposal. This project was conducted under contract F41624-01-D-8548 Task Order 080 with the AFCEE & directed by the 611th Civil Engineering Squadron/ Civil Environmental Compliance (CES/CEVC). The excavated area at the Upper Tram Terminal Building was approximately 28' x 10' with an average depth of 0.75' for a total volume of 8 cy of soil. The excavated area near the Lower Tram Terminal Building was approximately 718 sq ft. The average excavated depth was about 1.5 feet. A total volume of approximately 40 cy of contaminated soil was removed. The excavated area at the Lower Tram Terminal Pit was approximately 16 square feet. The average excavated depth was about 1.5 feet. A volume of approximately 1 cy of contaminated soil was removed. Prior to excavation activities, the field team noticed there was a large quantity of sand blast material on the ground surface around the upper & lower tram terminal buildings. The sand blast material was from sand blasting the metal frame structure of the tram terminal buildings for repainting by another contractor. This was not originally a concern until field-screening results showed very high levels of PCBs in the early stages of field screening and testing of the equipment (higher than the original assessment findings). This prompted the field team to collect a field screen sample of the sand blast material for information and further testing. The result of the field screen was 298parts per million (ppm) of PCBs. The Contractor excavated the specified amount of soil, approximately 50 cy, from the site and left the excavations open pending further investigation of the sand blast material. All equipment and personnel were demobilized from the site before a decision was made regarding the sand blast material. PCBs were the disposal driver for selection of disposal methods for the contaminated soil. The DRO/RRO contamination did not influence the selection of disposal methods. No waste characterization samples were collected from the soil. Results from previous sampling events were used to properly characterize and profile the soil for disposal. The super sacks were shipped to a TSCA-permitted landfill for final disposal. The super sacks were transported using a loader and heavy-duty straps to place them on a flatbed truck. The super sacks were first moved from the staging area to the barge loading area where they were then transferred onto a barge landing craft. The super sacks were manifested for transport from Cape Romanzof LRRS, AK to their final destination, the Grassy Mountain TSCA-permitted Landfill (EPA ID# UTD991301748) in Clive, Utah. From Cape Romanzof, the truck was transported via barge to the Port of Seattle where it was offloaded onto trucks and transported to Clive, Utah for disposal. The waste was manifested for transport in 4 connex containers, 3 containers containing 16 super sacks & 1 container containing 12 super sacks. The waste was manifested on Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest document numbers CZF06, CZF07, CZF08, and CZF09. The soil was transported in accordance with 49 CFR 172, 173, 178, 179, and all other applicable local, state, and federal transportation regulations. The disposal company issued certificates of disposal for the contaminated soil. Based on the analytical results presented in Section 4.0, additional excavation is required at the lower & upper tram terminal buildings to reach compliance with the regulatory levels for PCBs and DRO in the grid sections indicated in the figures. Additionally, it is recommended that the sand blast material be investigated & removed prior to additional excavation. Based on field observations & excavation activities at the upper tram terminal area, additional excavation and backfill of the excavation is not recommended. Due to the high degree of the slope and the large number of very large boulders additional excavation would be difficult. The large boulders can only be excavated using heavy equipment & placing heavy equipment on the slope is not recommended unless the hillside is altered to support the use of such equipment. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
7/20/2005 Site Added to Database PCBs detected in soil and petroleum. Former Staff
2/9/2007 Exposure Tracking Model Ranking Louis Howard
8/1/2007 Meeting or Teleconference Held A TRIAD systemic project planning meeting was hosted by the USACE and attended by USAF, ADEC, and BLM. Several data gaps and uncertainties for four sites were identified during this meeting. IRP Sites SS016 Upper Tramway Terminal and SS017 Lower Tramway Terminal: What is the nature and extent of PCB contamination since excavation, sandblasting and subsequent transport via wind? Is there a completed exposure pathway at the site? Louis Howard
2/8/2008 Update or Other Action Draft Work Plan for Remedial Investigation at four source areas (LF003, SS010, SS016 and SS017) received. Investigative approaches were proposed in the document derived following the framework of the TRIAD. The 2008 RI field effort will focus on addressing the uncertainties and data gaps defined by the project team during the systemic planning meeting held on August 1, 2007. In general, the 2008 field effort will utilize high density surface and subsurface soil sampling with field screening for multiple contaminants to define the nature and extent of contaminants, and lower density laboratory analytical samplin with rapid turnaround times to confirm sufficient delineation. The sampling strategy at each site was determined during the systematic planning meeting. 1) A minimum of 15 to 20 analytical soil samples will be collected from around each tramway facility at a frequency of one sample per 250 ft2. Additional analytical samples may be collected as ten foot step outs to define the extent of PCB contamination greater than 1 mg/kg, based on field screening results. 2) Soil samples will be collected from in and around the formerly excavated areas. Additional analytical samples may be collected as ten foot step outs to define the extent of PCB contamination greater than 1 mg/kg, based on field screening results. Louis Howard
3/3/2008 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff reviewed and commented on the Draft Work Plan Remedial Investigation for LF003, SS010, SS016 and SS017 at Cape Romanzof LRRS January 2008. ADEC recommends a minimum of ten (10) samples for “background” determination, not seven (7) as proposed in the text. Trying to establish “background” diesel range organics/residual range organics (DRO/RRO) is not applicable, especially since SS010 is the only area where petroleum is a contaminant of concern (COC,) it is a characterization investigation to determine nature and extent and it should be in gravel/fill material. If the Air Force is concerned about biogenic interference with the samples for some reason, please refer to Tech Memorandum 06-001 “Biogenic Interference and Silica Gel Cleanup.” The Air Force can include this as part of the work plan, sampling and final report. As far as metals, ADEC does not recall where RCRA metals were discussed or agreed on as part of the initial Triad meeting in August 2007. If the Air Force agrees to eliminate the “background” approach, the text for the entire RI and FSP will need to be revised. SS016 & SS017-Triad meeting notes state that for SS016 & 017, “initially, collect two (2) surface soil samples for the initial 250 sq. ft. and one sample every 250 sq. ft. thereafter from the area which surrounds the tram building” ADEC requests clarification on whether this means 2 samples for each 250 sq. ft. next to the building and then one from the step out or just 2 from the first 250 sq. ft. and 1 from every additional 250 sq. ft.. The Triad meeting notes say that surface and subsurface soils will be collected for the former excavation areas from the sides and bottom. ADEC assumes this was to delineate depth of contamination. This needs to be added to the work plan. Natural attenuation. ADEC recommends references to this be removed altogether or details be added as to exactly where the Air Force is proposing monitored natural attenuation (MNA), where the MNA parameter samples will be collected, for what analyses, etc. As with “background, this does not seem applicable to this facility, even for SS010. ADEC does not concur with the plan for returning soil when PCBs are encountered at any screening result or for chlorinated compounds where screening results are below 25 ppm. Analytical results will be used to determine if the soil will be shipped off if the results are above Method Two Soil Cleanup Levels Table B1. For example, trichloroethene has a revised cleanup level of 0.020 mg/kg for migration to groundwater cleanup level in the Under 40” Zone (ADEC August 10, 2006 Revised Toxicity Technical Memorandum 06-003) and PCBs have a cleanup level of 1 mg/kg for unrestricted land use areas. It appears that 25 ppm may be too high a level to assume that cleanup levels have been met for any soil generated by soil borings based solely on soil screening results. Please note that field screening may not take the place of laboratory samples. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
3/17/2009 Update or Other Action Draft RI received. As outlined in the TRIAD systematic planning mtg., analytical samples collected at SS016 & SS017 were analyzed for PCBs & lead only. Results of the TRIAD mtg. identified several sampling & non-sampling uncertainties. These were used to develop the dynamic investigation approach for each site to ensure data collected from this 2008 RI effort aid in decision-making. Surface soil (Upper Tramway Terminal) is defined as soil from ground surface to 2 feet bgs. The highest PCB & lead were 6,600 mg/kg & 617 mg/kg, respectively, in SS-009 collected from immediately below the tram docking & maintenance area. Lead was detected > residential, but < industrial, screening criteria at SS-010, SS-016, & SS-032 respectively, along the northern wall of the facility. The vertical extent of PCB contamination appears is limited to less than 1’ due to the geologic makeup of the site. The horizontal extent includes 3 areas including; 240 sq. ft. along the south of the facility, east of the entrance to the arctic walkway including grid cells 1 & 2; 1,790 sq. ft. near the tram docking area, including grid cells 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 31, & 36; 2,540 sq. ft. near the elevated walkway, including grid cells 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 & step-out areas east of grid cells 13 & 14 (abutting the radar station) & north of grid cell 14. SS017- Lower Tramway Terminal: The area surrounding SS017 had been backfilled & compacted prior to the 2008 field effort, potentially mixing or covering previously identified contaminated materials, & requiring additional screening & sampling. Based on surface soil screening & analytical sample results, 2 areas of surface soil were identified exceeding screening criteria. The sampling grid contains one area of 1,270 sq. ft. near the tram docking area, including portions of grid cells 3, 4, 5, 22, 23, 24, & 25, in excess of the regulatory screening criteria for PCBs. There is 1 area of 930 sq. ft. near the elevated access ramp, including grid cells 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, & 29, in excess of the regulatory screening criteria for PCBs. Two localized areas of 120 & 180 sq. ft. are in cells 25 & 1 respectively. Lead was detected in excess of both residential & industrial screening criteria at a SS-003, adjacent to an AST. Lead contamination appears to be localized at the vicinity of this sample location. Based on subsurface soil screening & analytical sample results, contamination appears to be limited to greater than 2 ft. bgs. Three subsurface soil samples to a depth of 3.5’ bgs contained PCBs in excess of screening criteria, & one of these contained lead in excess of both residential & industrial screening criteria. Soil boring SB-004 contained lead & PCBs exceeding screening criteria, & was collected beneath the surface soil contamination identified in the vicinity of the tram docking area (grid cell 3, approximately 100 sq ft). Soil boring SB-005 contained PCBs exceeding screening criteria, & was collected beneath the eastern edge of the surface soil contamination identified around the elevated access ramp (grid cell 8, 65 sq. ft.). SS017 is recommended for remedial action including placing an appropriate cap over the site to limit the migration of PCBs through runoff, wind, or other pathway, & implanting ICs (deed restriction). PCBs identified during the 2008 RI ranged from 1 mg/kg to 68 mg/kg in surface soils, & 3.02 mg/kg to 13.6 mg/kg at three subsurface soil sample locations. These levels exceed ADEC regs, however, fall within the acceptable range for leaving in place & capping in accordance with TSCA. SS016 is recommended for remedial action including limited removal, & ICs (deed restriction). PCBs identified at SS016 during the 2008 RI ranged from 1.41 mg/kg to 6,600 mg/kg in surface soils. Due to site access, safety & feasibility, removal of PCBs >50 mg/kg is recommended. PCBs >50 mg/kg are present beneath the tram docking station & at an area north of the substation & west of the radome. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
4/17/2009 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, Contaminated Sites Program (ADEC) received the draft RI for review and comment on March 24, 2009. ADEC has the following comments on the document for source areas at Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station: SS016 (Upper Tramway Terminal), SS017 (Lower Tramway Terminal), LF003 (Landfill Number 2) and SS010 (Spill/Leak Number 4, Weather Station Building). 3.7 Deviations from the Work Plan Page 3-7 Source Area SS017 ADEC requests the Air Force provide clarification on whether there was disturbed soil that was moved from the site, if so please elaborate where the soil was relocated. ADEC requests the Air Force provide information on the source of the backfill material used to fill the area and provide information on whether the backfill was sampled or otherwise demonstrated to be clean. 6.5.1.4 Summary of Findings at Source Area SS017 Page 6-58 ADEC requests the Air Force provide clarification on whether there was disturbed soil that was moved from the site, if so please elaborate where the soil was relocated. ADEC requests the Air Force provide information on the source of the backfill material used to fill the area and provide information on whether the backfill was sampled or otherwise demonstrated to be clean. Additionally, ADEC requests the Air Force clarify whether the surface soil sampled, which was discussed in the text, obtained from the backfilled material. Figure 7-2 Source Areas SS016/SS017-Human Health CSM The footnotes do not appear to coincide with the conceptual site model (CSM). 7.4.6 Risks at Source Area SS016 & SS017 Page 7-30 ADEC requests the Air Force correct the last sentence of the 1st paragraph of this section which is incorrect. There are unacceptable risks due to PCBs in surface soil at SS016 and surface/subsurface at SS017. Figure 8-2 Source Areas SS016/SS017 – Ecological CSM ADEC requests the Air Force add a note to the effect that inhalation of contaminated fugitive dust is considered under the incidental ingestion pathway. ADEC looks forward to reviewing the response to comments to the RI report, work plan for any necessary follow-up sampling at the facility not covered by the RI, and the draft feasibility study. According to the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP), the feasibility study (FS) is a study undertaken by the lead agency to develop and evaluate options for remedial action. The FS emphasizes data analysis and is generally performed concurrently and in an interactive fashion with the RI, using data gathered during the RI. The RI data are used to define the objectives of the response action, to develop remedial action alternatives, and to undertake an initial screening and detailed analysis of the alternatives. Louis Howard
7/29/2009 Update or Other Action Final RI received. The Cape Romanzof LRRS site includes several known source areas. Four IRP sites were investigated in August through October 2008, including: LF003 (Landfill No 2), SSOIO (Spill/Leak No. 4 at the Weather Station Building), SS016 (Upper Tram Area) and SS017 (Lower Tram Area). Source Area SS017 is recommended for remedial action including placing an appropriate cap over the site to limit the migration of PCBs through runoff, wind, or other pathway, and implementing institutional controls (deed restriction). PCB concentrations identified at SS017 during the 2008 RI ranged from I mg/kg to 68 mg/kg in surface soils, and 3.02 mg/kg to 13.6 mg/kg at three subsurface soil sample locations. These levels exceed ADEC regulations, however, fall within the acceptable range for leaving in place and capping in accordance with TSCA regulations. Source Area SS016 is recommended for remedial action including limited removal, and institutional controls (deed restriction). PCB concentrations identified at SS016 during the 2008 RI ranged from 1.41 mg/kg to 6,600 mg/kg in surface soils. Due to site access, safety and feasibility, removal of PCBs greater than 50 mg/kg is recommended at SS016. Two general areas with concentrations greater than 50 mg/kg are present at S017; beneath the tram docking station, and an area north of the substation and west of the radome. This would meet the requirements of TSCA for instituting site control (fence) and institutional controls for the remaining PCBs contaminated areas. While this remedy exceeds ADEC regulations for capping, the feasibility of remediating soils to below 10 mg/kg is questionable. The feasibility of installing a cap at the Upper Tram given the harsh conditions and site features is also questionable. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
11/6/2009 Update or Other Action Note: if you are looking for information about this site prior to 2004, check file number 2526.38.000, marked Cape Romanof General Information/Correspondence. This file contains documents that may pertain to all of the Cape Romanof sites before they were established as individual sites. Natalie Loescher
4/5/2010 Exposure Tracking Model Ranking Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 75101 name: Surface release Louis Howard
7/21/2010 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff reviewed and commented on the draft initial screening of alternatives for Cape Romanzof LRRS. 1.0 Introduction Page 1-1 The text states: “The goal of the FS process is to determine the most appropriate methods or technologies for remediation of contaminated media at a site.” ADEC requests the Air Force change the text to read as follows: “The primary objective of the feasibility study (FS) is to ensure that appropriate remedial alternatives are developed and evaluated such that relevant information concerning the remedial action options can be presented to a decision-maker and an appropriate remedy selected.” [40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) § 300.430 (e)(1)]. 1.5.1 Remedial Action Objective Criteria Page 1-9 ADEC requests the Air Force insert this sentence as the first sentence for this section: “RAOs consist of medium-specific goals for protecting human health and the environment. The objectives should be as specific as possible but not so specific that the range of alternatives that can be developed is unduly limited” 4.0 Conclusions of Initial Screening of Alternatives Page 3-25 ADEC concurs with the selection of all the alternatives presented in Section 3.0 for the detailed analysis of alternatives. The text states: “As described in Section 1.5.5, this stage involves two steps: 1) analyzing each of the alternatives against the evaluation criteria (individual analysis) and 2) performing a comparative analysis of each alternative to the other alternatives within one source area and one medium (i.e. LF003 surface soil) to determine the alternative that is most applicable to that source area/medium. These steps are necessary to fully evaluate each alternative.” ADEC requests the Air Force instead use the following text as follows: “A detailed analysis of alternatives consists of the following components: 1) Further definition of each alternative, if necessary, with respect to the volumes or areas of contaminated media to be addressed, the technologies to be used, and any performance requirements associated with those technologies. 2) An assessment and a summary profile of each alternative against the evaluation criteria. 3) A comparative analysis among the alternatives to assess the relative performance of each alternative with respect to each evaluation criterion 5.0 References Page 4-3 ADEC requests the Air Force to update the list of guidance as follows: ADEC. 2008. Alaska Water Quality Criteria Manual for Toxic and Other Deleterious Organic and Inorganic Substances. December 12. ADEC. 2004. Technical Memoradum. Sediment Quality Guidelines. March. ADEC. 2009 18 AAC 70 Water Quality Standards. Amended as September 19. ADEC review and comment on this initial screening of alternatives is to ensure that the work was done in accordance with State of Alaska environmental conservation laws and regulations. While ADEC may comment on other state and federal laws and regulations, our comments on the document does not relieve responsible persons from the need to comply with other applicable laws and regulations. Louis Howard
6/16/2011 Update or Other Action Cape Romanzof Feasibility Study Draft Contract No. FA8903-08-D-8784 Task Order 0036 Project No. DBWT20107317 June 2011 received. SS016 Contaminants of Concern and Cleanup Levels Three areas: 1) South of Facility, 2) Tram docking area and 3) Elevated walkway. Surface soils. 1) 13 cubic yards, 2) 99 cubic yards and 3) 141 cubic yards. PCBs max. concentration 6,600 mg/kg (cleanup level 1 mg/kg). Four Sampling Areas: SS-009, SS-010, SS-016, and SS-032. Surface Soil. Lead. 617 mg/kg max. concentration (400 mg/kg residential/800 mg/kg commercial/industrial). SS017 Contaminants of Concern and Cleanup Levels Four Areas: 1) Tram docking area (near SS-020), 2) elevated access ramp (near SS-013), 3) SS-021 and 4) SS-017. Surface Soil. 1) 94 cubic yards, 2) 69 CY, 3) 5.5 CY and 4) 11 CY. PCBs max. concentration 68 mg/kg (1 mg/kg cleanup level) SS-003. Surface soil. 1,500 mg/kg max. concentration (400 mg/kg residential 800 mg/kg commerical/industrial land use). Three Areas: 1) SB-004, 2) SB-005 and 3) SB-007. Subsurface soil. 1) 5.5 CY, 2) 3.6 CY, 3) 3.1 CY. PCBs 13.6 mg/kg max. concentration (1 mg/kg cleanup level). SB-004. Subsurface soil. Lead 1,440 mg/kg max. concentration (400 mg/kg residential land use 800 mg/kg commerical or industrial land use). SS016 Surface Soil Alternatives • SS16SS1 – No Action • SS16SS2 – Institutional Controls, Engineering Controls, and Containment • SS16SS3 – PCB Soil Hot Spots (> or = 10 mg/kg): Excavation, Ex-Situ Treatment and On-Site Disposal; PCB Soil (> or = 1 and < 10 mg/kg): Institutional Controls and Engineering Controls. • SS16SS4 – PCB Soil Hot Spots (> or = 10 mg/kg): Excavation, Ex-Situ Treatment and Off-Site Disposal; PCB Soil (> or = 1 and < 10 mg/kg): Institutional Controls and Engineering Controls. SS017 Surface Soil Alternatives • SS17SS1 – No Action • SS17SS2 – Institutional Controls, Engineering Controls • SS17SS3 – Excavation, Ex-Situ treatment and on-site disposal • SS17SS4 – Excavation and Off-site disposal SS017 Sub-Surface Soil Alternatives • SS17SB1 – No Action • SS17SB2 – Institutional Controls, Engineering Controls • SS17SB3 – Excavation, Ex-situ treatment and on-site disposal • SS17SB4 – Excavation and Off-site Disposal The purpose of this FS is to identify appropriate remedial alternatives for the contaminants present at the Cape Romanzof LRRS and to provide a detailed analysis of the alternatives so that appropriate remedial remedies may be selected for implementation at each of the four contamianated (i.e. source) areas. The purpose of this evaluation is not to select a preferred alternative, but rather to evaluate each of the alternatives on an individual and comparative basis, relative to the seven evaluation criteria. The seven evaluation criteria include the threshold and balancing criteria. The remaining two “modifying criteria” (State Acceptance and Community Acceptance) will be addressed in the ROD associated with the Cape Romanzof LRRS, following this FS and were not evaluated at this time. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
6/30/2011 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff reviewed and commented on the draft Feasibility Study. 1.3.1 It appears the incorrect value for exposure frequency values for “Arctic Zone” was used. Please use the correct value of 270 days in the Under 40 Inch Zone (90 days non-exposure time) per ADEC Cleanup Levels Guidance, Appendix A Soil and Groundwater Cleanup Standards Equations and Exposure Assessments, January 1, 2006. Notably absent from the document in this section is reference to the Method Two soil migration to groundwater cleanup levels. ADEC requests the Air Force reference any ADEC approved 350 determinations for sites mentioned in this document. ADEC requests the Air Force include migration to groundwater as an exposure pathway and reference the appropriate cleanup levels in the document. Under section 2.4.1.2 Contaminants of Concern Page 2-17, the text references being protective of human health and migration to groundwater: “The COCs for the surface soils were identified due to contaminant concentrations that exceeded screening criteria (ADEC Soil Cleanup Levels, Tables B1 and B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, 18 AAC 75.341; as amended through October 9, 2008), which are protective of human health and migration to groundwater.” Also see section 2.4.2.2 Contaminants of Concern Page 2-20 and section 2.4.3.2 Contaminants of Concern Page 2-22, Table 1-6 The EPA RI/FS Guidance (EPA/540/G-89/004) states the State (Support Agency) criterion will be addressed in the ROD once comments on the RI/FS report and Proposed Plan have been received (section 6.2.3.8 State (Support Agency) Acceptance and 6.2.5 Comparative Analysis of Alternatives). This comment is also applicable to the Community Acceptance section in this table. It does not limit the Lead Agency to addressing this criterion based solely on receipt and resolving comments on the Proposed Plan. The table is inconsistent with the text on Page 1-16 which correctly states State and community acceptance will be addressed in the ROD once formal comments on the RI/FS report and Proposed Plan have been received and a final remedy selection decision is being made. Louis Howard
9/29/2011 CERCLA FS Staff approved the final feasibility study. While not listed on the NPL, Cape Romanzof LRRS must follow CERCLA process per E.O. 12580 [e.g. CERCLA Sections 104(a), (b), and (c)(4), 113(k), 117(a), and (c), 119, and 121) with respect to releases or threatened releases where either the release is on or the sole source of the release is from any facility or vessel under the jurisdiction, custody, or control of their departments. These functions must be exercised consistent with CERCLA Section 120 Federal Facilities. State laws. -- State laws concerning removal and remedial action, including State laws regarding enforcement, shall apply to removal and remedial action at facilities owned or operated by a department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States when such facilities are not included on the National Priorities List. The preceding sentence shall not apply to the extent a State law would apply any standard or requirement to such facilities which is more stringent than the standards and requirements applicable to facilities which are not owned or operated by any such department, agency, or instrumentality.]. Louis Howard
3/23/2012 Update or Other Action ADEC received the draft Proposed Plan for 4 sites including: • Landfill Number (No.) 2 (LF003) • Spill/Leak No. 4 at the Weather Station Building (SS010 • Upper Tram Terminal Area (SS016) • Lower Tram Terminal Area (SS017 Surface Soil: Excavation & Off-Site Disposal In this alternative, surface soil, where PCB concentrations exceed 1 mg/kg, would be excavated, loaded onto barges, & shipped to a commercially operated landfill (that accepts PCB-contaminated waste) for disposal. Confirmation sampling following the excavation & disposal would document the effectiveness of the remedy. Soil from a local borrow source would be used to backfill the excavation. All lead-contaminated soil areas are located within the PCB contaminated areas, & would be excavated with the PCB contaminated soil. Once confirmation sampling assures that all PCB contaminated soil =1 mg/kg has been removed & disposed of, the site will be recommended for closure. Because this site is located within an area comprised of large boulders & is on a steep slope, it may not be possible to remove all PCB soil =1 mg/kg due to safety & logistics. If this is the case, areas where soil with PCBs =1 mg/kg would be capped with clean soil/gravel & warning signs indicating the presence of PCBs would be installed. Periodic maintenance of the signs & cap would be performed as long as soil concentrations remain above 1 mg/kg. The cost increase for this alternative for cap & IC installation & maintenance for 30 years would be approximately $409,643. This is the preferred alternative for PCB contaminated soil, because it eliminates risks to human health & the environment posed by PCB & lead contaminated soil. Other alternatives do not eliminate risk completely or require costly & potentially hazardous treatment methods. Surface Soil: Excavation & Off-Site Disposal In this alternative, subsurface soil with PCBs & lead contamination present above cleanup levels protective of human health & the environment would be excavated, loaded onto barges, & shipped to a commercially operated landfill for disposal. Confirmation sampling following the excavation & disposal would document the effectiveness of the remedy. This is the preferred alternative for PCB contaminated subsurface soil because it completely eliminates risks to human health & the environment posed by PCB & lead contaminated soil. Other alternatives do not eliminate risk completely or require costly & potentially hazardous treatment methods. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
7/11/2012 CERCLA Proposed Plan While not listed on the NPL, Cape Romanzof LRRS must follow CERCLA process per E.O. 12580 [e.g. CERCLA Sections 104(a), (b), and (c)(4), 113(k), 117(a), and (c), 119, and 121) with respect to releases or threatened releases where either the release is on or the sole source of the release is from any facility or vessel under the jurisdiction, custody, or control of their departments. These functions must be exercised consistent with CERCLA Section 120 Federal Facilities. State laws. -- State laws concerning removal and remedial action, including State laws regarding enforcement, shall apply to removal and remedial action at facilities owned or operated by a department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States when such facilities are not included on the National Priorities List. The preceding sentence shall not apply to the extent a State law would apply any standard or requirement to such facilities which is more stringent than the standards and requirements applicable to facilities which are not owned or operated by any such department, agency, or instrumentality.]. The preferred alternatives for Sites LF003, SS010, SS016, and SS017 are listed below. LF003 PCB contaminated soil and sediment: • LF03SS5: PCB Soil (=1 mg/kg): Excavation and Off-Site Disposal. • LF03SD3: Excavation, Off-Site Disposal and Long-Term Monitoring. SS010 petroleum contaminated subsurface soil and groundwater potentially contaminated with petroleum: • SS10SB2: Institutional Controls and Engineering Controls. • SS10GW2 – Institutional Controls, Engineering Controls, Natural Attenuation and LTM. SS016 PCB contaminated soil: • SS16SS4: PCB Soil =1 mg/kg Excavation, to the extent feasible, and Off-Site Disposal. SS017 PCB contaminated surface and subsurface soil: • SS17SS4: Excavation and Off-Site Disposal. • SS17SB4: Excavation and Off-Site Disposal. USAF will implement, monitor, maintain, and enforce the ICs identified below in accordance with ADEC’s contaminated site regulations. The purpose of the ICs is to help prevent inappropriate handling of groundwater contaminated above ADEC Table C groundwater cleanup levels at SS010 and help prevent the future handling of surface soil or sediment contaminated above ADEC Method Two cleanup levels at LF003 and SS016 in ways that are inconsistent with ADEC’s contaminated site regulations. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
12/14/2012 Update or Other Action Draft Record of Decision received for SS016 & SS017 SS016 The selected remedy for SS016 for PCB- and lead-contaminated surface soil is as follows: • Surface Soil – Alternative SS16SS4 – PCB Soil (=1 mg/kg) Excavation, to the extent feasible, and Off-Site Disposal includes the following actions: o Surface soil where PCB concentrations exceed 1 mg/kg will be excavated, loaded onto barges, and shipped to a commercially operated landfill permitted to accept PCB-contaminated waste for disposal. All lead-contaminated areas are located within PCB-contaminated areas and would be excavated with the PCB-contaminated soil. Confirmation sampling of the excavated area for both PCB and lead concentrations will document the effectiveness of the remedy. Soil from a local borrow source will be used to backfill the excavation. o This site is located in an area with large boulders and steep slopes, which could result in areas where PCB soil =1 mg/kg is left in place due to safety or logistical issues associated with removal. If this occurs, areas where soil with PCBs =1 mg/kg will be capped with clean soil and gravel, and warning signs indicating the presence of PCBs would be installed. Periodic site inspections will be performed and maintenance of the cap and signs will be completed as needed. The cap and signs would be maintained until such time as site conditions allowed for unlimited use and unrestricted exposure. Locations of the cap and signs would be surveyed and recorded in the appropriate Cape Romanzof LRRS land records, including the Base Master Plan and ADNR land records. SS017 The selected remedies for SS017 for PCB- and lead-contaminated surface and subsurface soil are as follows: • Surface Soil – Alternative SS17SS4 – Excavation and Off-Site Disposal includes the following actions: o Surface soil within source area SS017 with PCBs and lead contamination above cleanup levels protective of human health and the environment will be excavated, loaded onto barges, and shipped to a commercially operated landfill permitted to accept PCB- and lead-contaminated waste for disposal. Confirmation sampling following the excavation and disposal will document the effectiveness of the remedy. Soil from a local borrow source will be used to backfill the excavation. • Subsurface Soil – Alternative SS17SB4 – Excavation and Off-Site Disposal includes the following actions: o Subsurface soil within source area SS017 with PCBs and lead contamination present above cleanup levels protective of human health and the environment will be excavated, loaded onto barges, and shipped to a commercially operated landfill permitted to accept PCB- and lead-contaminated waste for disposal. Confirmation sampling following the excavation and disposal will document the effectiveness of the remedy. Soil from a local borrow source will be used to backfill the excavation. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
3/18/2015 Update or Other Action One of several sites with Land Use Controls in effect (LUC Mgt Plan 2015 Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Center Installations, JBER, AK) March 13, 2015. In addition to ICs established as part of LUCs of the ERP for landfill sites with LUCs in effect, both ERP landfill and non-ERP landfill sites in Alaska under the management of PRSC must also comply with regulations set forth by the ADEC solid waste regulations in 18 AAC 60. Furthermore, landfill sites under the management of PRSC but not categorized as an ERP site must also comply with ADEC 18 AAC 60. LUC_RESTRICTION The selected remedy for SS016 is: Excavation, to the Extent Feasible, and Off-Site Disposal of PCB- and lead-contaminated surface soil at Site SS016. If all contamination cannot be removed, the following actions will be implemented: - A cap will be placed over remaining surface soil contaminated with PCBs and lead above cleanup levels. - Engineering controls (ECs) such as signs warning of contamination will be erected at the location where surface soil is located at concentrations above cleanup levels protective of human health and the environment. - ICs that prohibit development and use of property for residential housing, prevent use of contaminated soil for restricted uses, require dig permit in the event of excavation, implement soil management plan, and maintain cap (if necessary) at SS016 in order to prevent direct exposure and water infiltration. ICs will be incorporated into the LUC Plan. - Locations of the cap and signs will be surveyed and recorded in the appropriate Cape Romanzof LRRS land records, including the Base Master Plan and ADNR land records. The selected remedies for SS017 are: Excavation and Off-Site Disposal (Surface soil – Alternative SS17SS4); and Excavation and Off-Site Disposal (Subsurface soil – Alternative SS17SB4). If excavation to promulgated soil cleanup levels (1 mg/kg PCBs and 400 mg/kg Lead) is infeasible due to safety or logistical issues associated with remedial action, then capping and ICs with long-term monitoring and maintenance on the cap will be required. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
1/29/2016 Update or Other Action Staff received the draft Work Plans for LF003, SS016, SS017 Remedial Action – Construction for comment and review. The objective of the RA-C for this site is to excavate and remove surface and subsurface soil with PCB concentrations greater than or equal to1 mg/kg and lead concentrations greater than or equal to 400 mg/kg for offsite transport and disposal. The quantity of soil requiring excavation at the site is estimated to be approximately 525 tons. SS016 is located near the Upper Tram Terminal and active radar. The proposed excavation limits are located in an area west of the Upper Tram Terminal and areas north and south of the substation. These areas were delineated based upon the results from the 2008 RI (USAF, 2009). Extreme safety measures will be implemented while performing the RA-C at this site due to the steep terrain and site conditions. Similar to Site LF003, there are large boulders and rocks present on top of the contaminated soils, which will need to be moved prior to excavating. The sources of the soil contamination are historic oil spills and blasting of lead containing paint from the exterior of the tram building. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
2/3/2016 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff provided comments on the draft work plans for LF003, SS016 and SS017 Remedial Action - Construction. The Record of Decision referred to cubic yards of contaminated soil and sediment (e.g. LF003 227 CY surface soil and 20 CY sediment). The draft work plan refers to tons of contaminated soil and sediment. Please state in the text of the introduction section, what conversion factor was used or assumed for converting cubic yards of material to tons of material (comment applies for LF003, SS016, and SS017). Please state in the text that according to the 2009 RI , due to inclement weather and safe site access, the northern boundary of one location adjacent to the radome was not completely defined and the volume of soil requiring excavation is unknown. AFCEC shall ensure the primary laboratory, any network laboratory and backup laboratory (e.g. SGS) are current in their ADEC approvals and DoD ELAP Accreditation prior to any field work commencing at Cape Romanzof LRRS. Please provide copies of the renewed ADEC approval/DoD ELAP accreditation with the final work plan. State of Alaska Compliance Issues Please elaborate what would be considered State of Alaska compliance issues and why the USACE staff would be the only one involved and not AFCEC/CZOP or ADEC. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
4/20/2016 Cleanup Plan Approved Final UFP-QAPP approved for implementation at LF003, SS016, SS01 7 and OB942. ADEC is withholding its approval of SR018 sire-specific work plan pending a signed Record of Decision for SR018. Louis Howard
4/28/2017 Update or Other Action Draft report received for review & comment. SS016 Remedial activities resulted in the removal of approximately 129 tons of PCB & lead contaminated soil. Post excavation confirmation sampling was conducted after three excavation lifts. Analytical results from the post Excavation Lift #3 sampling event reported that 18 of the 30 sampling cells that comprised the excavation footprint were confirmed clean. While soil contamination remains, safety concerns must be resolved before additional remedial actions can be performed. These safety concerns include the relocation of live high voltage power cables (to access the contaminated soils that lie underneath Cells #1 & #5), & stabilization of the tram dock footing before additional remedial activities can be safely resumed. SS017 Remedial activities resulted in the removal of approximately 454 tons of PCB & lead contaminated soil. The observed extent of soil contamination extended further laterally & vertically than estimated in the 2013 ROD. Post excavation confirmation sampling was conducted after two excavation lifts. Analytical results from the post Excavation Lift #2 sampling show that cleanup goals were met for 11 of the 23 sampling cells. While contamination remains, safety concerns must be resolved before additional remedial actions can be performed. Relocation of the live high voltage power cable is required to access the contaminated soils at Cells #15, #18, #21, & #22. Contaminated soil appears to extend beneath the building which must be supported or removed prior to further excavation (soil sample 16SS17-E3-SW22A-SO reported the highest concentration of PCBs & lead). In order to achieve site closure, the area underneath the building will need to be evaluated & the extent of contamination determined before remedial activity can resume. The extent of contamination at the eastern portion of the site (Cells #19, #20, & #23) needs further characterization before remedial activity can resume. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
2/28/2018 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other 2017 Remedial Action-Operations/Long Term Management (draft) received for review & comment. The IC inspection conducted at SS016 & SS017 was limited due to heavy snow conditions. No evidence of erosion, subsidence soil excavation or unauthorized site access was observed. During the 2017 LTM activities, new LUC signage was installed meeting the AFCEC requirements. Louis Howard
8/28/2018 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff commented on the 3rd Five-Year Review (draft) report. Main comments were to add additional information from the Explanation of Significant Differences for SS016 and SS017. Update maximum detection of contaminants for SS017 to include the 2016 sample results for lead and PCBs. Additional comments were to include information on the gravel caps used for capping PCBs in soil at SS017. SS016 conditions are not protective since cells 1 through 6 are uncapped. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
9/12/2018 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff approved the final version of the Explanation of Significant Differences for SS016 & SS017. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
9/17/2018 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff sent a letter notifying Air Force of Action Levels for PFAS in Water and Guidance on Sampling Groundwater and Drinking Water Technical Memorandum dated August 20, 2018. Action levels for UCMR3 PFAS compounds in groundwater and surface water used as drinking water are as follows: Where one or more of the PFAS compounds, PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS, or PFHpA are detected in a water sample analytical result, the sum of the concentrations for all detected compounds will be compared to an action level of 0.07 µg/L. Where PFBS is present in a water sample analytical result, the detected concentration will be compared to an action level of 2.0 µg/L. Please note that all future sampling results for PFAS-impacted groundwater, surface water, and pore water must include results for all six UCMR3 PFAS compounds. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
9/19/2018 Cleanup Plan Approved Explanation of Significant Differences (ESD) received and approved for SS016/SS017. this ESD is required to: At SS016: amend the contingency remedy specified in the ROD to modify the remedy to allow PCB > 1 mg/kg and lead > 400 mg/kg contaminated soil to remain uncapped until such time that the Lower Tram Terminal is removed and the high voltage cables can be relocated or powered down. At SS017: Amend the remedy specified in the 2013 ROD to increase the quantity of PCB and lead contaminated soil to be excavated from 191-cy to 550-cy and allow PCB and lead - contaminated soil (PCB > 1 mg/kg and lead > 400 mg/kg) to remain in place until such time that the Lower Tram Terminal is removed and the power to the high voltage cables is relocated or powered down, and Amend the remedy specified in the 2013 ROD to implement land use controls (LUCs) until such time contaminated soil with PCB >1 mg/kg and lead >400 is removed and the site meets unrestricted use and unlimited exposure (UU/UE). Louis Howard
11/15/2018 Update or Other Action During the 2017 inspection, maps showing the LUC boundaries were observed in the personnel housing and work areas. LUC signage is also present on the Upper Tram Terminal Building. Site access is highly monitored and is limited to site personnel only. No evidence of land disturbance was observed. No issues were identified that affect the protectiveness of the remedy at SS016. The remedies at Sites SS016 and SS017 are also not functioning as intended by the ROD, as inaccessible, contaminated soil remains at these two sites. ICs and LUCs are in place to prevent exposures to contaminated media at Sites SS015, SS016, SS017, and ST009. The LUCs have been recorded in the LUC Management Plan for the Pacific Air Forces Regional Support Center Installation. LUC inspections are conducted and reports are submitted to ADEC. The NECs required for Site SS016 was filed in May 2018. Approximately 256 cubic yards (396 tons) of PCB- and lead-contaminated soil remain at SS016, and an estimated 240 cubic yards (372 tons) of contaminated soil remains at SS017. The USAF issued ESDs to amend the remedies for Sites SS016 and SS017 in 2018. The ESDs amended the remedies to allow inaccessible contaminated soil that could not be excavated or capped to remain until the Upper Tram Terminal and the Lower Tram Terminal are removed, the high-voltage power cable is removed or relocated, and the slope is stabilized. The amended remedies include the expectation that the inaccessible contaminated soil at SS016 and SS017 will be excavated after the removal of the Upper and Lower Tram Terminals and removal/relocation of the high-voltage power cable. These activities are expected to occur at SS017 in 2023 (USAF, 2018a). The ESD included a statutory determination that the selected remedies for SS016 and SS017, as modified, will be protective of human health and the environment. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
11/16/2018 CERCLA ROD Periodic Review Staff reviewed the above document. DEC will approve the changes in the redline version of the Third CERCLA Five-Year Review and Third Non-CERCLA Periodic Review Report for sites-DP011, LF003, SS010, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017 and ST009 At Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Site (aka Station). DEC approves the redline version and all the comments which were incorporated into the document. Louis Howard
2/15/2019 Update or Other Action Supplemental work plan for long term monitoring received for review and comment. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
3/5/2019 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff provided comments on the draft supplemental work plan. Main comments were to use the updated documents: 2017 Field Sampling Guidance, 2017 DoD Quality Systems Manual, 18 AAC 75 October 2018, and 18 AAC 70 (2018). See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
6/11/2019 Site Characterization Workplan Approved Staff approved the final supplemental work plan since the response to comments were reflected in the final version. See site file for additional information. Louis Howard
6/19/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Approved Supplemental Work Plan, 2020 Remedial Action Operations, Land/Use/Institutional Control, Cape Romanzof LRRS, May 2020. Darren Mulkey
7/28/2020 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed the "Draft Supplemental Work Plan for 2020 Remedial Action Operations, Land Use/Institutional Controls, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), AK" dated July 2020, and returned comments to the U.S. Air Force. The work plan describes planned work, to include sampling monitoring wells, collecting sediment samples, inspecting landfill caps, and repairing signage at LF003, ST009, SS010, SS015, SS016, SS017. Tim Sharp
8/18/2020 Update or Other Action DEC approved the "FInal Supplemental Work Plan for 2020 Remedial Action Operations, Land Use/Institutional Controls, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), AK" dated August 2020. The work plan describes planned work, to include sampling monitoring wells, collecting sediment samples, inspecting landfill caps, and repairing signage at LF003, ST009, SS010, SS015, SS016, SS017. Tim Sharp
1/22/2021 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed the "Draft 2020 Remedial Action Operations, Land Use/Institutional Control Technical Project Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS)" dated January 2021, and returned comments to the U.S. Air Force. Main comments were to ensure all results and recommendations in the report were included in the conclusions section. The technical project report describes performed environmental long-term management activities including groundwater monitoring well repair, decommissioning, installation and survey at sites LF003, ST009, SS010, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017. Axl LeVan
1/26/2021 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed and approved the "Final 2020 Remedial Action Operations, Land Use/Institutional Control Technical Project Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS)" dated January 2021, and returned comments to the U.S. Air Force. The technical project report describes performed environmental long-term management activities including groundwater monitoring well repair, decommissioning, installation and survey at sites LF003, ST009, SS010, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017. Axl LeVan
5/21/2021 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other Staff provided comments on the Draft 2021 Remedial Action – Construction Work Plan, Multiple Sources, LF003, SS016, and SS017, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), dated April 2021. The document was received 5/21/2021 outlines the intended plan for the demolition of the abandoned upper and lower tram buildings at Sites SS016/SS017. Additionally, it outlines the removal and characterization of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) contaminated soil and sites LF003, SS016, and SS017 at Cape Romanzof LRRS. Removal of 246 tons of PCB-contaminated soil from SS016 (Upper Tram area) is expected. Removal of 250 tons of PCB-contaminated soil from SS017 (Lower Tram area) is expected. Additionally, removal of 50 tons of PCB or lead-contaminated soil is expected from LF003 (Landfill No. 2) alongside repair of the landfill cap. Axl LeVan
5/26/2021 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC approved the "Final 2020 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Controls, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), Alaska" dated May 2021. The report presented the results of the 2020 Environmental Remedial Action-Operation/Long Term Management (LTM) program. LTM activities included sampling of monitoring wells and IC/LUC inspections at Sites LF003, ST009, SS010, SS015, SS016, SS017. Additionally sediment and surface water sampling, and road maintenance occurred at Site LF003. LUC warning signs at Sites LF003, SS015, and SS010 were also installed/replaced. Axl LeVan
6/9/2021 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC completed a review of the "Draft Final 2021 Uniform Federal Policy for Quality Assurance Project Plan for Long-Term Management and Remedial Action Operations Activities, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, dated March 2021". DEC provided comments on June 10, 2021 and the document was received on May 11, 2021. The work plan documents the plan for sites LF003, ST009, SS010, SS015, SS016, and SS017. The work plan described the approach and procedures for site-specific long-term management and remedial action-operation activities at Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station. This work will include annual groundwater sampling at sites ST009 and SS015. Additionally, annual surface water and sediment sampling for PCBs will occur at LF003. The document covers work being performed over a 5-year period and outlines the information to be provided during annual reports. Axl LeVan
7/14/2021 CERCLA Removal Action Plan DEC approved the Final 2021 Remedial Action – Construction Work Plan, Multiple Sources, LF003, SS016, and SS017, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), dated June 2021. The document was received 7/14/2021 outlines the intended plan for the demolition of the abandoned upper and lower tram buildings at Sites SS016/SS017. Additionally, it outlines the removal and characterization of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) contaminated soil and sites LF003, SS016, and SS017 at Cape Romanzof LRRS. Removal of 246 tons of PCB-contaminated soil from SS016 (Upper Tram area) is expected. Removal of 250 tons of PCB-contaminated soil from SS017 (Lower Tram area) is expected. Additionally, removal of 50 tons of PCB or lead-contaminated soil is expected from LF003 (Landfill No. 2) alongside repair of the landfill cap. All DEC comments from the draft work plan were addressed in the final version. Axl LeVan
8/31/2021 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed and approved the "Final 2021 Uniform Federal Policy for Quality Assurance Project Plan for Long-Term Management and Remedial Action Operations Activities, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, dated August 2021". The final document was received on August 27, 2021. The work plan documents the plan for sites LF003, ST009, SS010, SS015, SS016, and SS017. The work plan described the approach and procedures for site-specific long-term management and remedial action-operation activities at Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station. This work will include annual groundwater sampling at sites ST009 and SS015. Additionally, annual surface water and sediment sampling for PCBs will occur at LF003. The document covers work being performed over a 5-year period and outlines the information to be provided during annual reports. Axl LeVan
7/15/2022 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed the Draft 2021 Remedial Action – Construction Report, Multiple Sources, LF003, SS016, and SS017, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), May 2021. The document was received 6/2/2022 and focuses on the demolition of abandoned tram buildings at SS016 and SS017 followed by the removal of PCB- and lead contaminated soil at both sites and LF003. Information on both the demolition and removal action were provided in the text, figures, and photo logs. Axl LeVan
7/15/2022 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Contaminated Sites Program received a copy of "Draft-Final 2021 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Control Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, May 2022" on June 16, 2022. This report presents the results of the 2021 Environmental Remedial Action-Operation (RA-O)/Long Term Management (LTM) program at the Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Site (LRRS) in Cape Romanzof, Alaska. This work was performed from 28 September through 30 September 2021 and included institutional control (IC) and land use control (LUC) inspections. The event included sampling of wells at sites SS015 and ST009. DEC provided comments and requested document revisions. Axl LeVan
9/13/2022 CERCLA SI On 9/13/2022 ADEC approved the FINAL Quality Assurance Project Plan, Off-Base Drinking Water Site Inspections and Miscellaneous Tasks, Three U.S. AF Long Range Radar Stations, Alaska, Dated September 2022. The objective of the Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) is to provide a response action for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-impacted drinking water for areas surrounding three remote U.S. Air Force (USAF) Installations, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), Indian Mountain LRRS and Sparrevohn LRRS. The project goals are to determine if off-site migration of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has potentially impacted off-site groundwater and surface water used as drinking water used by residences or commercial businesses, and if a response action will be needed and required for applicable PFAS impacted drinking water sources. The USEPA Lifetime Health Advisory levels for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and the sum of the concentrations (PFOS+PFOA) of 70 nanograms per liter (ng/L) will be used as the action level for drinking water sources (both groundwater and surface water). Axl LeVan
10/7/2022 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Contaminated Sites Program received a copy of "Draft-Final 2021 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Control Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, October 2022" on October 4, 2022. All requested DEC revisions were included in the updated report and DEC approved the report. This report presents the results of the 2021 Environmental Remedial Action-Operation (RA-O)/Long Term Management (LTM) program at the Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Site (LRRS) in Cape Romanzof, Alaska. This work was performed from 28 September through 30 September 2021 and included institutional control (IC) and land use control (LUC) inspections. The event included sampling of wells at sites SS015 and ST009. Axl LeVan
11/22/2022 CERCLA Removal Action Report DEC reviewed and approved the "Final 2021 Remedial Action – Construction Report, Multiple Sources, LF003, SS016, and SS017, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS), October 2022." All previous DEC comments were addressed in the document. The document was received 11/22/2022 and focuses on the demolition of abandoned tram buildings at SS016 and SS017 followed by the removal of PCB- and lead contaminated soil at both sites and LF003. Information on both the demolition and removal action were provided in the text, figures, and photo logs. Axl LeVan
5/16/2023 CERCLA SI DEC reviewed and approved the "Final Site Inspection and No Further Response Action Planned Report for Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances at Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, May 2023." The Site Inspection (SI) report for Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station (LRRS) has been prepared to report the results of activities performed as part of the SI and recommend future activities at the installation. The report recommended an Remedial investigation at FTA #1, Non-FTA No.4 – Landfill No. 4, and Non-FTA No.6 – Biocell 3. It also recommended No Further Response Action Planned at Non-FTA No. 1 – Spill/Leak No. 7, Non-FTA No. 2 – Landfill No. 2, Non-FTA No. 3 – Landfill No. 3, and Non-FTA No. 5 – Landfill No. 5. DEC agreed with the recommendations. Axl LeVan
8/23/2023 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed and provided comments on the "Draft-Final 2022 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Control Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, August 2023" which was received August 14. The report is on site inspections at LF003, SS010, SS015, SS016, SS017, and ST009. The report includes sampling at LF003, ST009, and ST015. Axl LeVan
12/8/2023 CERCLA ROD Periodic Review DEC reviewed and provided comments on the "Draft 2023 Five-Year Review Report for DP011, LF003, SS010, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017, ST009, and OB942 at Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, November 2023". The purpose of a Five-Year Review (FYR) is to evaluate the implementation and performance of a remedy in order to determine if the remedy is and will continue to be protective of human health and the environment. This report is the first FYR for OB942. Axl LeVan
1/24/2024 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed and Approved the "Draft-Final 2022 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Control Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, December 2023" which was received January 2024. The report is on site inspections at LF003, SS010, SS015, SS016, SS017, and ST009. The report includes sampling at LF003, ST009, and ST015. All DEC comments were addressed in the updated document. Axl LeVan
1/30/2024 CERCLA ROD Periodic Review DEC reviewed and approved the "Final 2023 Five-Year Review Report for DP011, LF003, SS010, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017, ST009, and OB942 at Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, January 2024". All DEC comments were addressed by the revised version of the document. Axl LeVan
5/8/2024 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC provided comments on the "Draft 2023 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Control Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, April 2024". The report documents the 2023 work performed at sites LF003, SS010, SS015, SS016, SS017, and ST009. Axl LeVan
5/8/2024 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed and provided comments on the "Draft 2023 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Control Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, April 2024." This report presents the results of the 2023 Environmental Remedial Action-Operation/Long Term Management program. Axl LeVan
7/8/2024 Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other DEC reviewed and approved the "Final 2023 Remedial Action Operations Land Use/Institutional Control Report, Cape Romanzof Long Range Radar Station, Alaska, June 12th." The report presents the results of the long term monitoring program at Cape Romanzof LRRS. Axl LeVan

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