1.1.1 Incident Category

Threat assessment

1.1.2 Site Description

Partially filled, deteriorated, 10,000 gal capacity #6 oil tank in an abandoned paper converter (toilet paper) mill.

1.1.2.1 Location

The mill and oil tank are located on the north bank of the Battenkill River, a major fishing and recreational waterway that is a tributary of the Hudson River.

1.1.2.2 Description of Threat

The threat is the possibility that oil remaining in the deteriorated tank could be released into the Battenkill River.

1.1.3 Preliminary Removal Assessment/Removal Site Inspection Results

To be determined.

2.1.1 Narrative

2.1.2 Response Actions to Date

Since 2002 there has been one CERCLA PRP oversight removal action, 3 CERCLA Fund-lead removal actions and on OPA removal action performed at this site.

On 10/20/2015 the OSC inspected the #6 oil tank and determined that there is approx. 1,800 gallons of aged product in the tank. The OSC observed that two of the 4 sides of the containment wall have been demolished (collapsed?) and the tank is exposed to any encroaching flood water.  As such, the OSC has determined that the contents of the tank pose a threat of release of petroleum products to a navigable waterway of the U.S. 

On 10/26/2015 the Coast Guard's National Pollution Funds Center (NPFC) authorized the expenditure of $37,000 for remediating the #6 oil in this tank.

2.1.3 Enforcement Activities, Identity of Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs)

There is one PRP, the son of the former owner who is now deceased.  He has previously demonstrated to not have the financial resources necessary to conduct a removal action.

2.1.4 Progress Metrics

2.2.1 Anticipated Activities

Mobilize an EPA ERRS contractor to the Site and remove/dispose of the contents of the tank.

 2.1.1 Planned Response Activities

Inert the tank with nitrogen or carbon dioxide.  Conduct interior air monitoring while ERRS cuts an access hole in the end of the tank.  The contents of the tank will be vacuumed into an appropriate transport vehicle and disposed of as recycled oil.

2.2.1.2 Next Steps

See above.

2.2.2 Issues

None.

3.1 Unified Command

3.2 Cooperating Agencies

NYSDEC

6.1 Internet location of additional information/report

At www.epaosc.net  see previous web site for Bio-Tech Mills OPA I Removal.

6.2 Reporting Schedule