The Oeser Company has treated wood poles for utility companies at its 27-acre Bellingham, Washington facility since 1943. The company used creosote until 1983, then switched to pentachlorophenol (PCP). Both chemicals contaminated soil and groundwater on the property and in the nearby Little Squalicum Creek area. The site was added to the EPA's National Priorities List in 1997.
EPA has identified seven contaminants of concern at the site. These include 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in soil, naphthalene in soil and groundwater, pentachlorophenol in soil and groundwater, and total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in soil and groundwater. People face health risks from ingesting or touching contaminants in sludges and soil. Wildlife living in or getting food from contaminated surface water may also be at risk.
Cleanup has happened in several stages. A removal action in 1998 took out 23,000 gallons of stored creosote, about 8,500 tons of contaminated soil, and 27,000 gallons of liquid waste. After EPA signed a Record of Decision in September 2003, Oeser constructed the long-term remedy between 2005 and 2007. That work included capping contaminated soils, excavation, institutional controls to limit groundwater use, and groundwater monitoring. Cleanup of the Little Squalicum Creek area removed over 21,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil and sediment. The creek was rerouted to its historical channel, and nearby wetland areas were enhanced. EPA completed additional creek cleanup work in 2011 after taking over due to a funding gap.
Human exposure is currently under control, with no unacceptable exposure pathways identified. Contaminated groundwater is stable and not discharging to surface water at unacceptable levels. Physical construction of the cleanup is complete across the entire site. However, the site has not yet met all cleanup criteria needed to be considered fully ready for anticipated use. Operation, maintenance, and monitoring continue. Five-year reviews were completed in 2011, 2016, and 2021, each confirming the remedy remains protective of human health and the environment. The next review is estimated between August and October 2026. As of December 2024, one business operated on the site, employing 21 people.
Community members can get involved in the current fourth five-year review by submitting observations, information, or concerns by July 30, 2026. Contact EPA Project Manager Ashley Grompe at 206-553-1284 or grompe.ashley@epa.gov, or mail comments to Ashley Grompe, P.E., US EPA Region 10, 1200 Sixth Ave Suite 155, Seattle WA 98101-3123. For general questions, contact Community Involvement Coordinator Julie Congdon at (206) 553-2752 or Congdon.Julie@epa.gov.
