American Crossarm & Conduit Co.

Overview

American Crossarm & Conduit Co. operated a wood-treating facility on a 16-acre property in Chehalis, Washington. The company dumped wastewater containing wood-treating chemicals, fuels, and solvents into an unlined pit. This contaminated soil, groundwater, surface water, and sediments. EPA added the site to the National Priorities List on October 4, 1989.

The contaminants of concern include pentachlorophenol (PCP), creosote, beryllium, cadmium, mercury, dioxins and dibenzofurans, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These were found in soil, sediment, surface water, and groundwater. All contamination falls under one cleanup unit, known as Operable Unit 01.

Cleanup work ran from 1986 through 1996. Workers removed contaminated soil, demolished contaminated structures, pulled oil from groundwater, and covered excavated areas with clean soil. Contaminated soil on nearby residential and commercial properties was also dug out to levels safe for human health. Some contaminated soils remain at depth, so a protective cap covers the site. The cap comes with restrictions, prohibiting residential, agricultural, and groundwater use in capped areas. EPA signed a Final Close Out Report in 2020 and deleted the site from the National Priorities List that same year. The Washington Department of Ecology now oversees ongoing operation and maintenance, which is expected to continue through 2028.

Human exposure is currently under control across the entire site. Contaminated groundwater migration has been stabilized, and there is no unacceptable discharge to surface water. All cleanup goals have been met for current and expected future land uses. The property has been redeveloped and now supports commercial businesses, including a machine and repair shop and a fitness center. As of December 2024, twelve on-site businesses employed 99 people and generated about $8.36 million in annual sales revenue.

EPA conducts a five-year review to confirm the site stays protective over time. The most recent review took place on September 16, 2024. Community members with questions can contact the EPA Remedial Project Manager or the Community Involvement Coordinator. For state-related questions, contact the Washington Department of Ecology.