| Action Date |
Action |
Description |
DEC Staff |
| 9/7/1989 |
Update or Other Action |
Air Force Memorandum to EPA. Two copies of the final Work Plan, remedial investigation feasability study (RI/FS) Completion for EPA's files. The work at Kotzebue started August 1 and will conclude September 30. The petroleum product in the contaminated soil removed for landfarming reportedly was volatizing well and the Air Force personnel on-site were favorably impressed with the operation. |
Louis Howard |
| 6/29/1990 |
Update or Other Action |
1989 Stage 2 RI/FS-The landfarm at SS013 was constructed in 1989 to facilitate enhanced bioremediation of fuel-contaminated soil that was excavated from Spills No. 2 and No. 3 (SS12) and Waste Accumulation Area 1 (Former Environmental Restoration Program-ERP Site SS001). Covering an approximate 150 foot by 110 foot total area, the landfarm was partially constructed over an existing concrete pad, and the remaining smaller portion was over gravel fill.
A layer of six-millimeter plastic was laid down over the leveled gravel/concrete pad area, and gravel berms were constructed around the perimeter. Approximately 500 cubic yards of contaminated soil were then stockpiled in the containment area and spread to an average depth of 18 inches. Finally, emulsification and micronutrient agents were applied.
For the remainder of the 1989 and subsequent 1990 field seasons, landfarm soil was mixed weekly, and samples were collected to monitor the bioremediation process. Thirty two soil samples were collected in 1989, and 22 were collected in 1990 and analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH). Study results indicated that a substantial reduction had been made in TPH concentrations over the roughly two year period. The mean TPH concentration in soil samples dropped from 9,656 mg/kg in 1989, to 2,359 mg/kg in 1990. Landfarming activities ceased in 1990 due to the onset of winter and limited funding. |
Louis Howard |
| 1/13/1992 |
Update or Other Action |
Staff reviewed and commented on the IRP RI/FS Report, Stage 2, Kotzebue Air Force Base: KOT-8 Tanks, Landfarm, KOT- 1 Spills No. 2 & 3, and KOT-5 Fuel Spill.
Excavated, contaminated soils from several nearby spill areas were taken to a landfarm with a concrete and fill liner, leveled to 18 inches and mixed. Nutrients were added during the 1989 and 1990 field season. All indications are that bioremediation is occurring at the landfarm with a 44 percent reduction in TPH concentrations reported after 4 weeks of treatment in 1989.
The Department recommends that this relatively low cost remedial technique be continued. This issue of cleanup levels at the landfarm, and at Kotzebue Air Force in general have still not been addressed, therefore it is difficult to offer recommendations regarding the length of time that the landfarm should be operated.
The Department has the following concerns regarding the landfarm:
1) Two DEC personnel have reported the landfarm cover is torn and tattered and in poor condition. If the landfarm is to continue to be a success, and to serve as a possible prototype for other Air Force sites, it is critical that it be maintained.
2) WCC report leaching from the landfarm during the 1989 summer and this was attributed to high precipitation levels during the month of August. WCC state that leaching from the landfarm may be a source of TPH reduction. Please inform the Department as to conditions at the landfarm and if leachate is completely contained.
In addition, the Department also agrees with WCC recommendations that bioremediation activities begin earlier in the season due to the wet conditions which may be causing anaerobic conditions at the Landfarm during the August months. |
Laura Noland |
| 5/4/1993 |
Update or Other Action |
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) has not received a 1993 Field season work plan for the Kotzebue Long Range Radar Station (LRRS) Contaminated sites. Since1991, the Department has directed letters to the Air Force (see letters-November 26, 1991, December 20, 1991, January 13, 1992, and March 16, 1993) which detail the environmental problems observed and documented at the Station.
These letters have requested remedial action which has not been forth coming. The Department has received complaints from Kotzebue community members regarding a dump covered near the LRRS which is located on private lands and may have been used by the Air Force. To date these concerns have not been addressed.
The following environmental problems need to be addressed at Kotzebue:
A Landfarm was established at Kotzebue to contain contaminated soils from several nearby spill areas. This Landfarm has not been maintained and may have become a source of contamination. Two Department personnel have reported that the landfarm cover is torn and tattered and in poor condition. WCC Report states leaching from the landfill was occurring during the 1989 summer.
The ongoing hazardous substance releases at Kotzebue LRRS represent violations of
Alaska statutes and regulations. Potential violations include:
AS 46.03.710 POLLUTION PROHIBITED. A person may not pollute or add, to the pollution of the air, land, subsurface land, or water of the state.
AS 48.03.740 OIL POLLUTION. A person may not discharge, cause to be discharged, or permit the discharge of petroleum ... into, or upon the waters of land of the state....
AS 46.04.020 REMOVAL OF OIL DISCHARGES. A person causing or permitting the discharge of oil shall immediately contain and clean up the discharge.
18 AAC 75.140 CLEANUP Immediately upon becoming aware of a discharge of a hazardous substance to the water or land of the state, persons responsible ,or that discharge shall Clean up and dispose of the material collected using methods for which prior approval, oral or written, has been given by the regional supervisor or his designee. The discharge must be cleaned up to the satisfaction of the regional supervisor or his designee.
The Air Force has been aware of the environmental problems at Kotzebue since at least 1989. Please notify the Department within 30 days as to when a remedial action work plan will be available for review by the Department. |
Laura Noland |
| 6/30/1993 |
Update or Other Action |
1993 Site Inspection- the landfarm was found to be in relatively poor condition. Disturbance of the soil using a shovel resulted in identification of visual hydrocarbon stains and a hydrocarbon odor. Reportedly, the eroding berms no longer provided effective containment, and visual identification of the landfarm's extent established by the berms was impossible. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/31/1993 |
Update or Other Action |
During the State 2 RI/FS, approximately 500 cubic yards of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) contaminated soil were excavated from Spills No. 2 and 3 and Waste Accumulation Area No. 1 sites and stockpiled east of the access road directly across from the Composite Facility. Landfarm activities were conducted to reduce TPH concentrations in affected soil throughout the Stage 2 RI/FS. During the 1993 site survey, the landfarm was observed to be in poor condition, with no cover to reduce seasonal infiltration and runoff. |
Louis Howard |
| 5/16/1994 |
Update or Other Action |
Staff reviewed and approved the Draft Final Work Plan and Draft Field Sampling Plan
Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study Kotzebue Long Range Radar Station, Alaska dated April 1994.
The Department of Environmental Conservation has received and reviewed the above named documents which describe Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS)
activities planned for the summer of 1994 at Kotzebue Long Range Radar Station. The RI/FS will address six known contaminated sites and investigate ten areas of concern which were identified during 1993 site reconnaissance.
Air Force personnel and their contractor have previously met with Department staff and explained their work plan. This type of presentation greatly facilitates Department review. The Department approves of the work plans as written and looks forward to working further with the Air Force as the RI/FS proceeds at Kotzebue LRRS.
NOTE: Six Sites include: 1) Site SS02-Waste Accumulation Area No.2/Landfill; 2) Site ST05-Beach Tanks; 3) Site SS07-Lake; 4) Site SS08-Barracks Pad; 5) Site SSll-Fuel Spill; and 6) Site SS12-Spills No. 2 and 3.
Areas of concern include: AOC-1 Landfarm Landfarm Seeps, AOC-2 POL Lines, AOC-3 East Tanks, AOC-4 Power Plant Garage, AOC-5 Small Day Tanks, AOC-6 Nav Aid Bldg., AOC-7 Steel Pilings, AOC-8 White Alice Garage, AOC-9 White Alice Tanks, AOC-10 Septic Holding Tank. |
Laura Noland |
| 3/31/1995 |
Update or Other Action |
Site Characterization Summary-Informal Technical Information Report and Risk Assessment (July 1995 finalized this investigation: Final RI/FS Report) . This work included a gradiometric survey to evaluate the lateral extent of buried metallic debris, groundwater sampling to evaluate contaminant migration to Kotzebue Sound, non-invasive sampling to characterize soil and fresh water surface sampling within the landfill area to characterize the potential for contaminant leaching from the site. As part of the RI/FS, a total of 13 shallow, sub-surface soil samples were collected and analyzed for DRO, VOCs, SVOCs, pesticides, PCBs, and metals.
The TPH soil cleanup levels developed and implemented to guide site characterization and remedial action during previous IRP RI/FS activities are not acceptable to ADEC. TPH concentrations remaining in soils at selected sites will require additional characterization to evaluate current site conditions and the extent of potential contamination relative to ADEC accepted criteria. ADEC has established a target level for diesel range TPH at 1,000 mg/kg in soils at Kotzebue LRRS.
Diesel-range TPH (Method AK102): Six of these soil samples were collected from landfarm material, four were collected along the landfarm's perimeter, and three were collected at downgradient tundra locations to the east and northeast of the site. Three of six samples revealed TPH concentrations above ADEC soil criteria, including a maximum concentrations of 5,100 mg/kg detected in Sample AOC1-SB3-2.0. Perimeter of the landfarm was sampled shows: 2,400 mg/kg (AOC1-SB9/12), 4,100 mg/kg (AOC1-SB10-2.0), 4,800 mg/kg (AOC1-SB11-3.5) were detected in native tundra at concentrations exceeding the ADEC TPH soil criteria.
Diesel-Range DRO was detected above ADEC groundwater cleanup level in surface water Sample AOC1-SW1 at 2.0 mg/L. No hydrocarbon sheen was observed on the water surface. No VOCs were detected.
Recommendations based on the 1994 RI/FS included excavation and removal of contaminated landfarm soils from SS13 (approximately 1,500 cubic yards) exceeding 1,000 mg/kg DRO. A long-term monitoring program was instituted to monitor natural attenuation and site restoration. |
Louis Howard |
| 2/20/1997 |
Site Added to Database |
Site added by Shannon and Wilson. See also Reckey 198932X902515. |
S&W |
| 6/30/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
A syopsis and limited review of investigative and remedial activities at the Kotzebue LRRS, Alaska prepared by USDOI BIA contractor-Montauk Environmental Engineering June 1997. Site SS13 - Landfarm (AOC1, Awaiting Closure) This is a landfarm site constructed during the 1989 - 1990 Stage 2 RI/FS to remedlate petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated soil at Kotzebue LRRS. The site was constructed on a level pad (part concrete and part fill)
designed to hold approximately 500 cubic yards of petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated soils. The site is located on the east side of the installat) on access road, directly east of the
Composite Facility. Petroleum hydrocarbons detected in landfarm soil (up to 5100 ppm), adjacent soil (up to 4800 ppm), and surface water (at 2 0 ppm) are the primary environmental concerns.
To mitigate the potential for runoff impact to downstream tundra, it was recommended that contaminated landfarm soils and fill material be excavated and removed from Site SS13. Biannual monitoring was recommended for native tundra, including visual inspection and photographic documentation to demonstrate the natural restoration (revegetatlon) occurring the site once suspected source materials have been removed. Biannual monitoring should also incorporate limited surface water and soil sample collection for diesel range organics to evaluate the effectiveness of the natural attenuat)on alternative.
Contaminated soils were remediated by soil-washing in 1996, and a request by the USAF to the ADEC for a finding of "No Further Action" is anticipated in the near future.
Additional Recommendations Conclusion- 3.1 The following recommendations are in addition to those made by Tetra Tech Inc in their reports (and presented above), and are solely the opinions of Montauk Environmental Engineering.
Fencing and/or signs should be placed about contaminated sites to prevent or mitigate exposure of area inhabitants to remaining site contaminants.
The rationale for the ADEC’s PCBs cleanup level of 10 ppm in site soils (although such concentration is almost certainly conservative) should be presented, so that the appropriateness of that cleanup level can be determined.
It is understood that a report of site flora/fauna chemical analyses is scheduled for publication in the summer of 1997, and that the sampling efforts presented in the report are meant to compliment the Baseline Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment.
According to anecdotal information, preliminary chemical analyses results suggest very little in the way of detected target contaminants in plant and animal tissues. It is recommended these findings be presented to local area representatives in a "face to face" setting, so that responses and answers to concerns and questions can be expedited.
3 2 Conclusions Given the multi-spill complexity of the site and the unusual challenges associated with the site’s physical setting, the USAF and its Contractors have demonstrated what appear to be effective approaches toward solving the LRRS’ environmental problems. By identifying and successfully remediating contaminant sources, it is anticipated that future monitoring efforts will record a decrease of contaminant concentrations in those areas where contaminant removal is not recommended or feasible. |
Louis Howard |
| 12/29/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
Remediation report of 1995 & 1996 activities Final (January 1997). Removal actions were conducted at SS13, ST14, SS12, SS02 & the vehicle maintenance garage. As part of this effort, five ASTs & POL-impacted soil above regulatory action levels, were removed. The excavated soil was treated at the soil washing facility onsite & returned to the excavation.
Clean soil from the soil washing system was backfilled at source area excavations at ST14, ST04 , SS12, & SS13. No initial samples were collected at Source Area SS13 because the landfarm soils were well defined. Comparison of the immunoassay test kit & fixed laboratory results indicated a reasonable correlation, thus providing confidence in the test kits. The presence of hydrocarbons, primarily DRO, was confirmed from the gravel surface soils to a depth matching the tundra interface at all four source areas. The estimated volume of gravel exceeding 1,000 ppm DRO corresponded to previous investigative reports & the highest contamination, or "hot spot", was found at SS12.
The Contractor also collected field screening & fixed laboratory samples in areas underneath planned stockpile areas to determine if contamination existed prior to stockpiling. The only location where this was a concern was at SS13, where the soil was excavated until a DRO measurement of < 1,000 ppm was obtained before placing the liner for the contaminated soil stockpile.
Following cleaning & removal of the ASTs, excavation activities commenced at site SS13. Before soil was stockpiled at the site, a stockpile area was constructed directly north of the Quonset Hut. Since a portion of this area was part of SS13, the contaminated soils were excavated to a depth of about 2 feet & were pushed to the east side of the site. Soil samples were collected in this area; sample numbers SS13-Base-01 through SS13-Base-04 confirmed that contamination in the unexcavated soil was less than 1,000 ppm DRO before placing a liner for stockpiling. In addition, two stockpile areas were constructed to the north of the first stockpile where no source areas exist.
Each stockpile area was lined with reinforced polyethylene. Two layers (6-mils thick, 12-mils total thickness) were placed in each stockpile area & joined using an adhesive spray. Contaminated soil was excavated with an excavator or end loader & loaded into dump trucks which hauled & placed the soil in the stockpile areas. Care was taken to avoid overfilling the liner. Approximately 1,750 cy was stockpiled from site SS13, & approximately 250 cy was stockpiled from site ST04. These volumes were the total volumes excavated at these sites. Once the three stockpiles were filled with the 2,000 cy of soil, excavation activities were temporarily ceased while the soil washing system was evaluated.
This source area was the first to be excavated. The contaminated soil was moved to make room for the stockpiles. Approximately 1,750 cy of soil was removed from this area & washed. In addition, a large part of the Landfarm area was used for the clarifier pond. Soil at this site was excavated to the tundra/gravel interface & could not be excavated further.
Three samples were collected from the site following excavation activities & were submitted for fixed laboratory analysis. DRO was detected in all samples, but at concentrations less than 1,000 mg/kg. Benzene was detected in sample K-SS13-101A at 0.039 mg/kg, & in sample K-SS13-102A at 0.019 mg/kg. Benzene was not detected in the third sample. Near the end of soil washing, the stockpile areas were abandoned. Soil was removed six inches below the polyethylene liner at each stockpile & processed through the soil washing system. Treated gravel was placed on these areas for grading & to prepare for future stockpiling efforts, if required. Except for fines removal in 1996, the clarifier pond remained in place for future soil washing.
Approximately 1,750 cy of contaminated soil was excavated & treated by the soil washing process. The soil was excavated to within a few inches of the top of the tundra, achieving total cleanup within this site. Treated soil was backfilled in the excavations & graded. Field sampling & laboratory analysis confirm that DRO concentration at 675 mg/kg was below the 1995 1,000 mg/kg DRO interim cleanup level. Excavation to tundra was accomplished & the results of post-excavation sampling & analysis confirmed that contamination in remaining soils does not exceed 1,000 mg/kg DRO. Therefore, this site is recommended for NFRAP. |
Kevin Oates |
| 12/31/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
Management Action plan lists a zone approach for the installation. Zone 1 has been identified as the former main activity area of the installation. This area contained the housing and most of the operation facilities, including the Composite Facility.
The following IRP sites and AOCs are identified within Zone 1: SS01 - Waste Accumulation Area No. 1 (closed), SS08- Barracks, SS15 - Garage/Power Plant (AOC 4), SS06 - Spill No. 1 (closed), SS13 - Landfarm (AOC 1) (recommended for closure), SS14 - East Tanks (AOC 3), SS19 - PCB Spill South Fence (AOC 12), SS18 - Truck Fill Stand (AOC 11), SS20 - Septic Holding Tank (AOC 10), SS12 - Spill Nos. 2 and 3, AOC 5 - Day Tanks, AOC 7 - Steel Pilings (recommended for closure). |
Louis Howard |
| 6/30/1999 |
Update or Other Action |
1998 and 1999 Clean Sweep-All facilities were removed from the Kotzebue installation during Clean Sweep. The landfarm area was regraded to prevent surface water ponds from forming. |
Louis Howard |
| 5/5/2000 |
Meeting or Teleconference Held |
Community Meeting- Public questioned the appropriateness of using a higher cleanup level than what was originally used for the soil washing project. The first proposed levels excavated soil greater than 1,000 mg/kg diesel range organics (DRO) for treatment, and identified 100 mg/kg as the post treatment contaminant level. Question was asked why the Air Force wasn’t planning to follow the original cleanup level. Air Force responded: There was no formal agreement between the Air Force, ADEC, and community of Kotzebue to clean the soil to 100 mg/kg DRO. This was a voluntary goal established by the Air Force. This goal proved unattainable with the soil washing technology used to treat the soil. In the time between the start of the soil washing project and the abandonment of the technology, ADEC published Final Regulations for DRO cleanup in soil. ADEC and the Air Force determined that 18 AAC 75 Method 2, Table B2 cleanup values were appropriate cleanup levels. The new level would be 12,500 mg/kg DRO. The soil at the facility is well below this level and requires no further remedial action. Further, the soil could be spread onsite, regraded and re-vegetated to ensure runoff and erosion control. |
Ann Farris |
| 8/29/2000 |
Cleanup Plan Approved |
Div. of Env. Health, SW Program Sent letter to Tim Rabern City of Kotzebue. RE: Approval for Use of Remediated Soils as Cover Material in Kotzebue Landfill, Permit #9632-BA003
The Department has reviewed your request to use remediated soils fxom the Kotzebue LRRS as
cover material at the Kotzebue Landfill/Balefill, and the documentation provided by Steve Eng.
a certified hydrologiwst with ASCG,Inc. The remediated soil exceeds ADEC's regulatory
standard for placement in a unlined landfill. The soils exceed the "over 40-inch migration
to groundwater" standard for diesel range organic (DRO). We have considered your request under
the provision of 18 AAC 60.025 and grant approval for the use of the remediated soil as cover
materiail in the Kotzebue Landfill. You must comply with the following conditions.
1. The remcdiated soil can only be used as a daily or intermediate cover. They cannot be used in the top two feet of the four foot final cover required by your permit.
2. The remediated soil shall be applied uniformly when used as cover material and must be applied and compacted at grade to prevent low spots that may result in water ponding.
3. Any accumulated surfac water in a cell where the remediated soil are used for cover material must be examined for visible sheen per 18 AAC 70.020, before the water can be discharged to the sewage lagoon (if water is in contact with waste) or to the tundra. If a visible sheen is present on the water surface, then the product causing the sheen must be sskimmed off with absorbents or the water pumped through an oil/water separator before discharging to the sewage lagoon. The skimmed or separate product must be dispose of according to applicable Federal and State statutes and regulations.
This approval is for the remediated soils stockpiled at the Kotzebue LRRS only, and does not
constitute permission to dispose or landfill any other polluted or contaminated soils. Any future proposals for disposal of polluted or contaminated soils at the Kotzebue Balefill/Landfill will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Signed Kent Monroe Environmental Specialist. |
Ann Farris |
| 5/17/2001 |
Meeting or Teleconference Held |
Staff attended RAB meeting - issues discussed were publishing reports in the newspaper, better explanation of ecological risk assessment, proposed plans pending, need to explain cleanup levels well, historical grave on the facility, program for the school, and need to present GW results. |
Ann Farris |
| 3/3/2003 |
Update or Other Action |
Draft Proposed Plan received for 9 sites which include SS13. The former Landfarm (SS13) was located east of the former Composite Bldg, along the eastern side of the installation’s main gravel pad. The landfarm was constructed during the 1989-90 Stage 2 RI/FS to treat fuel-contaminated soil excavated from Spills No. 2 & No. 3 (SS12) & the Waste Accumulation Area 1 (Former IRP Site SS01). Covering an approximate 150-foot by 110-foot area, the landfarm was constructed on a level pad (part concrete & part gravel fill) & covered with 6 mil plastic. Berms were built around the stockpile to contain the soil & prevent runoff during storm & seasonal thaw events. The landfarm was maintained until 1990. The primary environmental concerns at this site were fuel constituents in the soil & contaminated surface water from runoff during stockpiling & landfarming activities.
Site inspections conducted from 1992-1993 noted the plastic landfarm cover & containment berms were damaged, & it was suspected that surface water run-off may have become contaminated & could impact the tundra adjacent to the site.
As part of the RI/FS, 13 shallow, subsurface soil samples were collected & analyzed for DRO, VOCs, SVOCs, pesticides, PCBs, & metals. 6 of these soil samples were collected from landfarm material, four were collected along the outside edge of the landfarm, & 3 were collected at tundra locations down gradient to the east & northeast of the site. DRO (up to 5,100 ppm) was found within the cell & at the downgradient soil sample locations at levels above interim cleanup levels (up to 4,800 ppm).
One surface water sample was collected from a small creek draining the eastern edge of the facility pad, down gradient of the landfarm. The sample was analyzed for DRO & VOCs. No VOCs were detected in the sample. The sample result indicated DRO at 2.0 ppm, although no sheen was observed on the water surface at the time of sample collection.
Recommendations based on the 1994 RI/FS included excavation & treatment by soil washing of contaminated landfarm soils. It was estimated that approximately 1,500 cy of soil was above 1,000-ppm DRO & would require treatment. A LTM program to monitor natural attenuation of remaining soil was also recommended.
As part of the Stage 2 RI/FS, the landfarm was constructed at the Landfarm (SS13) to facilitate enhanced bioremediation of fuel-contaminated soil from 3 IRP sites at Kotzebue LRRS. Approximately 500 cy of soil was spread to an average depth of 18”. Nutrients were added to aid in biological degradation of contaminants. The landfarm soil was mixed regularly & samples were collected to note how fast the cleanup was occurring. 32 soil samples were collected in 1989, & 2 in 1990. All samples were analyzed for TPH. The average TPH level in soil dropped from 9,656 ppm in 1989 to 2,359 ppm in 1990. Landfarming activities ended in 1990 due the loss of project funding.
In 1995, approximately 1,750 cy of the Landfarm (SS13) soil, underlying gravel, & the containment berms, was excavated & run through the site soil washing plant. Contaminated soil was excavated to within 2” of the tundra surface. Treated soil was used to cap the excavation & the site was graded to eliminate surface water ponding. Confirmation soil samples were collected & analyzed for DRO, RRO, GRO, & BTEX. Results showed DRO levels were below the interim cleanup level of 1,000 ppm DRO. Based on these results, the AF proposed NFA for this site.
In 1998 all facilities at the Kotzebue LRRS were removed from the site as part of Operation Clean Sweep. Debris was disposed of in the Kotzebue Landfill. & the site was regraded to inhibit the formation of surface water ponds including the area used for the landfarm.
Human health risks based on the presence of arsenic in the soil for swallowing or breathing pathways (ingestion or inhalation) were found. However, the arsenic levels observed are thought to be naturally occurring & are similar to background levels.
A minimal ecological risk based on the dietary pathway for squirrels for xylene (in one soil sample) & 2-methyl-naphalene (in one soil sample) was noted.
Since the risk assessment was performed, contaminated soil has been removed & treated at this site. These remedial actions conducted in 1995 & 1998 may have eliminated the source for the risk discussed above.
Based on past studies, risk to human health & the environment, review of the possible alternatives, & the cleanup actions already done, Alternative 2 (access restrictions, confirmation sampling, & natural attenuation/monitoring) is the AF’s preferred cleanup method for the 9 sites at Kotzebue LRRS. Alternative 2 is the most cost-effective & will meet cleanup levels in an acceptable amount of time.
Alternative 2 will meet the goals of the 1996 Conservation Agreement Plan for the protection of the rare plant, Barneby’s milkvetch. |
Ann Farris |
| 5/22/2003 |
Meeting or Teleconference Held |
Staff attended a Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) meeting in Kotzebue regarding the Kotzebue Long Range Radar Site. The meeting focused on whether or not the community wanted to continue the RAB as meetings have been sporadic and attendance low. The radar site was demolished and the majority of active cleanup has already occurred, however, Proposed Plans and Decision Documents still need to be prepared and signed. These documents are expected to be forthcoming in the next year. The community decided they wanted to attempt to continue with the RAB in order to actively participate in the proposed plan/decision document stage. The next meeting is scheduled for July 22-23. The local community members that were in attendance agreed to contact several organizations and other community members by the July meeting in an effort to revitalize the RAB. |
Ann Farris |
| 6/16/2003 |
Update or Other Action |
ADEC Comments on the Proposed Plan for Cleanup, Sites SS07, SS12, SS13, SS14, SS15, SS17, SS18, SS19, and SS20, Kotzebue Long Range Radar Station, Kotzebue, Alaska, dated April 2003
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC or the Department) has completed a review of the above referenced Proposed Plan. The Plan describes the Air Force’s proposed cleanup levels and selected remedy for the following sites:
•Former Water Supply Lake (SS07)
•Spill No.2 and No.3 (SS12)
•Abandoned Landfarm (SS13)
•East Tanks (SS14)
•Former Power Plant/Garage (SS15)
•PCB Spill Building 102 (SS17)
•Truck Fill Stand (SS18)
•PCB Spill South Fence (SS19)
•Septic Holding Tank (SS20)
The Department has the following review comments:
1. Page 1, Side Note, “Alaska Department of Environmental Conversation:” The ADEC is responsible for protecting the human health and the environment, not “safety.” Please clarify the note.
2. Page 1, 4th Paragraph, 2nd Sentence: The “How You Can Participate Box” in the back of the proposed plan indicates the information repository is at the Kotzebue Hall, not the Alaska Indian Reorganization Act Office. Are they the same office? Please clarify this issue. Please also include a physical address for the City Hall. |
Ann Farris |
| 7/31/2003 |
Update or Other Action |
2003 RI/FS-Eleven field screening soil samples were collected from the impacted tundra area and from the former landfarm, and screened for fuels. Two confirmation soil samples and one surface water sample were collected and tested for DRO, VOCs, SVOCs, and pesticides. All sample results were below ADEC Method Two cleanup levels for the arctic zone, or EPA and ADEC water quality criteria. |
Ann Farris |
| 1/15/2004 |
Update or Other Action |
Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study conducted in 2003. The objective of the 2003 sampling program at SS13 was to assess contaminated tundra and surface water downgradient of the site and characterize residual fuels (if any) in soil below the landfarm. Soil and surface water samples did not exceed screening criteria values. |
Ann Farris |
| 3/31/2004 |
Risk Assessment Report Approved |
2004 Risk Assessment-The 2004 risk assessment determined that no significant risk to human health or the environment exists at the site. |
Ann Farris |
| 1/12/2005 |
Update or Other Action |
File number updated with subfile 410.38.002.02. |
Aggie Blandford |
| 6/1/2005 |
Proposed Plan |
After minor ADEC comments being incorporated into the document, Final version of Proposed Plan received. SS013 Summary of Site Conditions-Based on the 2004 RI/FS, no CERCLA hazardous substances were found above EPA cleanup levels. Based on the 2004 human health and ecological risk assessment, it is unlikely that exposures to CERCLA hazardous substances will harm human health or the environment at SS013
SS013 Proposed Action Under CERCLA-In accordance with CERCLA requirements, USAF concludes that no remedial action is necessary to ensure protection of human health and the environment at SS013. Following consideration of public comments received, USAF will prepare a Record of Decision (ROD) to document the final selected remedy for SS013. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/19/2005 |
Meeting or Teleconference Held |
A public meeting was held in the National Guard Armory on 19 July 2005. The meeting was open to the public and was advertised in the local newspaper and on the local radio station (KOTZ) but was sparsely attended. Because of the small number of people in attendance, an open discussion was encouraged as the Proposed Plan was presented. Most comments offered during the meetings were in the form of questions for clarification and did not reflect direct comment on the Proposed Plan.
No formal written comments were received during the open comment period. Neither were comments received by the toll-free phone line. |
Louis Howard |
| 1/30/2007 |
Update or Other Action |
Draft Record of Decision received from the Air Force for: SS007-Former Water Supply Lake; SS013-Landfarm; SS014-East Tanks; SS015-Former Power Plant/Garage; SS016- Buildings 101 and 102; SS017 PCB Spill At Building 102; SS019-PCB Spill South Fence; and SS020-Septic Holding Tank/Outfall Line all located at the Kotzebue Long Range Radar Site (LRRS). presents the final selected remedies for sites SS007, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017, SS019, and SS020, at Kotzebue LRRS, Alaska. This is an integrated ROD documenting no action under CERCLA and remedies selected under State of Alaska laws and regulations.
There are no CERCLA hazardous substances, identified as contaminants of concern (COCs), that pose an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment at these sites. Because there are no CERCLA COCs, there is no CERCLA authority to take action, and a no action response is the appropriate and selected remedy for these sites under CERCLA.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been consulted consistent with the requirements of 10 United States Code (USC) 2705 and has provided no comments. The EPA has chosen to defer to the State of Alaska for regulatory oversight of the Environmental Restoration Program (ERP) at Kotzebue LRRS, Alaska.
Additionally there are no contaminants present at these sites above State of Alaska laws and regulations; Thus, these sites require no further action under those applicable laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, Title 46 of the Alaska Statutes and regulations promulgated thereunder.
The selected remedial action under CERCLA for SS007, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017, SS019, and SS020 is no further action. There is no unacceptable risk to human health or the environment at these sites from CERCLA hazardous substances.
The selected remedial action under State of Alaska regulations is also no further action. There are no contaminants regulated under the State of Alaska that exceed cleanup levels under 18 Alaska Administrative Code (AAC) 75.341 Method 2 Table B1 and B2 for soil in the arctic zone, or pose unacceptable risks to human health or the environment. Because no further action is warranted, remedial action objectives (RAO) were not developed, and the selected remedy for these eight sites is site closure. No further soil, surface water, or sediment monitoring will be required. Site access will be unrestricted. Land use controls are not applicable because no contamination remains above cleanup levels.
The former Landfarm SS013 was located east of the former Composite Facility, along the eastern side of the LRRS main gravel pad. The landfarm was constructed as a treatability study in 1989 as part of an ERP response action to clean up contaminated soil from various sites at Kotzebue LRRS. All contaminated soil placed in this landfarm was from contamination events that predate the 1984 funding eligibility date under the ERP. SS013 was identified as a contaminant source area in 1993 during a site inspection by ADEC. Approximately 1,750 cubic yards of total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH)-contaminated soil were removed from SS013 and treated using soil washing technology in 1995 and 1996. Subsequent sampling and the 2004 risk assessment determined that no contaminants remain on-site and there is no significant risk to human health or the environment at SS013 (Figure 3).
The selected remedy will not result in hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants remaining on-site above levels that allow for unlimited continued current land use and unrestricted exposure for industrial, recreation, and subsistence uses. Therefore a statutory review will not be required for this remedy.
No significant changes have been made since Alternative 1 No Further Action was evaluated during the 2004 RI/FS (USAF, 2004) and the public review of the Proposed Plan occurred. The public was encouraged to participate in the decision making process for the proposed remedial actions for SS007, SS013, SS014, SS015, SS016, SS017, SS019, and SS020 during a public comment period between 19 July 2005 and 19 August 2005. Two Proposed Plans were released to the public. The EPA was also given the opportunity to provide comments on each Proposed Plan consistent with the requirements of 10 USC 2705 and provided no comments. An initial Proposed Plan for Sites SS008 and SS016 were released for public review on 2 April 2002. Since that time, additional sampling was conducted at SS016 during the 2003 RI/FS. For this reason, SS016 was included in this more current ROD. |
Louis Howard |
| 8/16/2007 |
GIS Position Updated |
66° 50' 36"N, 162° 35' 30"W (NAD83/WGS84) TOPOZONE.COM USGS Kotzebue D-2 |
Louis Howard |
| 11/1/2007 |
Record of Decision |
April 4, 2007 Final Record of Decision For No Further Action received for signature - SS007 (Former Water Supply Lake), SS013 (Landfarm), SS014 (East Tanks), SS015 (Former Power Plant/Garage), SS016 (Buildings 101 and 102), SS017 (PCB Spill at Building 102), SS019 (PCB Spill South Fence), SS020 (Spill Nos. 2 and 3), SS018 (Former Truck Fill Stand), SS002 (Waste Accumulation Area No. 2/Landfill) and ST005 (Former Beach Tanks). Signed by Brent A. Johnson, Colonel, USAF, Commander, 611th Air Support Group on October 23, 2007. John Halverson (ADEC) signed the ROD on November 1, 2007. 2004 diesel range organics (DRO) sample results were all below the Arctic Zone cleanup levels of 12, 500 mg/kg established for the site. Highest level detected in soil was 6,900 mg/kg diesel range organics.
The decision may be reviewed and modified in the future if new information becomes available that indicates the presence of undiscovered contaminants or exposures that may cause unacceptable risk to human health or the environment. If additional contaminants are discovered, the Air Force and ADEC will determine the compliance levels for cleanup actions. |
John Halverson |
| 11/1/2007 |
Update or Other Action |
April 4, 2007 Final Record of Decision For No Further Action received for signature - SS007 (Former Water Supply Lake), SS013 (Landfarm), SS014 (East Tanks), SS015 (Former Power Plant/Garage), SS016 (Buildings 101 and 102), SS017 (PCB Spill at Building 102), SS019 (PCB Spill South Fence), SS020 (Spill Nos. 2 and 3), SS018 (Former Truck Fill Stand), SS002 (Waste Accumulation Area No. 2/Landfill) and ST005 (Former Beach Tanks). Signed by Brent A. Johnson, Colonel, USAF, Commander, 611th Air Support Group on October 23, 2007. John Halverson (ADEC) signed the ROD on November 1, 2007. 2004 diesel range organics (DRO) sample results were all below the Arctic Zone cleanup levels of 12, 500 mg/kg established for the site. Highest level detected in soil was 6,900 mg/kg diesel range organics.
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Louis Howard |
| 11/5/2007 |
Cleanup Complete Determination Issued |
ADEC John Halverson sent the Air Force a cover letter to accompany the Final April 4, 2007 Final Record of Decision For No Further Action received for signature. The source areas covered by the document include - SS007 (Former Water Supply Lake), SS013 (Landfarm), SS014 (East Tanks), SS015 (Former Power Plant/Garage), SS016 (Buildings 101 and 102), SS017 (PCB Spill at Building 102), SS019 (PCB Spill South Fence), SS020 (Spill Nos. 2 and 3), SS018 (Former Truck Fill Stand), SS002 (Waste Accumulation Area No. 2/Landfill) and ST005 (Former Beach Tanks).
SS013 Landfarm - ADEC concurs no further remedial action is warranted at the site. However, diesel range organic (DRO) contamination is present at levels as high as 6,900 mg/kg, which does not exceed ADEC’s most stringent cleanup levels in 18 AAC 75.341 Table B2. Method Two – Petroleum Hydrocarbon Soil Cleanup Levels of 12,500 mg/kg for DRO in the Arctic Zone(as amended through December 30, 2006).
Please note, per 18 AAC 75.325(i), department approval is required prior to disposing of soil or water from a site that is, or has been, subject to the site cleanup rules. Furthermore, these decisions may be reviewed and modified in the future if new information becomes available that indicates contaminants at a site may cause unacceptable risk to human health or the environment. |
Louis Howard |
| 9/21/2012 |
Institutional Control Record Removed |
Institutional Controls have been removed. |
Louis Howard |
