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Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. (Saratoga Springs Plant)
Saratoga Springs, NY
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Involvement Coordinator
Larisa Romanowski - 518-747-4389
romanowski.larisa@epa.gov
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EPA added the Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. (Saratoga Springs Plant) site in the City of Saratoga Springs, New York, to the National Priorities List of Superfund sites on February 21, 1990, because various by-product materials containing hazardous substances and coal tar waste deposits were found on the site. Before Niagara Mohawk, a National Grid company, the approximately 11 acre site located in Saratoga County contained a facility used for coal gas manufacturing, a former skating rink owned by the City and portions of Spring Run Creek.
Contaminants were found in the groundwater, soil and stream sediment. Groundwater and soil contain two types of pollutants associated with coal tars. The pollutants are composed primarily of a group of compounds commonly found in motor oils and volatile organic compounds, contaminants that evaporate into the air easily. The stream sediment contains the same pollutant commonly found in motor oils and the pesticide DDT. EPA conducted a risk assessment for the site, which determines the threats posed to human health and the environment if the Superfund site were left unattended. Results showed that contaminants in three areas that flow downstream did not pose a risk to human health though may cause ecological threats. Under current conditions at this site, potential or actual human exposures are under control.
EPA decided on a cleanup plan, which is explained in a document called a “record of decision,” and the cleanup was completed in the fall of 2002. The plan included digging and off-site disposal of soil and areas containing coal tar waste, installation of barriers and drains to contain contaminated groundwater, installation of an asphalt cap to cover contaminated soil, and long-term monitoring and control. The cleanup approach also included removal of sediment in a nearby stream and prohibiting contaminant transport via an underground storm sewer. Identification of additional coal tar waste outside of the barrier wall caused National Grid to create a plan to expand the barrier wall system. In June of 2002, a permanent water treatment facility was constructed. The City of Saratoga Springs (City) and the Saratoga Springs Open Space Project notified EPA to suggest changes in the final plans to accommodate the property for a bike path. EPA and NMPC agreed to the changes with the understanding that the City would be responsible for any additional work in this area.
