SWMU 26 – Building 544 Area

SWMU 26 consists of an open area behind former Building 544 where approximately 25, badly rusted, 55-gallon drums of waste oil or other substance, were observed lying on bare soil during the 1988 VSI. At that time, the containers were in very poor condition and partially overgrown with vegetation. A tar-like substance was observed leaking onto the ground. Subsequently, in June 1992, the Navy indicated that the containers were removed, "and no visual evidence exists of any soil staining." The 1993 follow-up inspection found no visual evidence of releases. However, possible stressed vegetation, possible miscellaneous disposal activity, and mounds of excavated soil covered with plastic were observed. During the 1993 inspection, areas not actually included in the SWMU were inspected. Since the 1993 reinspection, the area has been used for construction support by multiple contractors. The RCRA permit required an RFI for surface soils.

Status

  • RFI work plans were approved in 1995.
  • The initial sampling program was performed during OU 1 investigations. Although the soil gas survey showed no significant areas of concern, the soil samples taken from the site indicated the presence of low levels of semi-volatile organic constituents. These were found to pose no significant human health risk; however, the EPA considered the findings to indicate possible releases to deeper soils and groundwater. In addition, the SWMU is in the Bundy Area, which contains concentrated housing of base personnel. Future additional housing at this site can not be ruled out.
  • A work plan for additional investigations was submitted and subsequently approved by the EPA.
  • Additional investigations were conducted in September and October 1997.
  • Results from these investigations were provided to the EPA in January 1998.
  • The RFI is complete.
  • No further action was recommended in the 7003 Administrative Order on Consent.
  • Corrective Action Complete without Controls as stated in the 1/29/07 RCRA § 7003 Administrative Order on Consent.