Batavia Landfill

Overview

From the 1960s until 1980, industrial operations dumped hazardous wastes into the 35-acre Batavia Landfill in Genesee County, New York. The landfill borders Galloway Swamp, a protected wetland, and sits near residential drinking water wells. About 6,500 people within a 3-mile radius rely on the local aquifer for drinking water.

Contaminants spread into soils, sediment, surface water, and groundwater. More than 150 chemical substances have been identified at the site. Key contaminants include volatile organic compounds such as trichloroethene, vinyl chloride, and benzene, along with heavy metals including arsenic, lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium, and nickel. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, phthalates, and common solvents like acetone and methylene chloride are also present.

Cleanup was organized into two operable units. The first addressed the landfill itself with an engineered multi-layer cap, onsite consolidation of wastes, leachate collection and off-site disposal, landfill gas collection, and institutional controls. The second provided a permanent replacement water supply for residents whose wells were at risk. Threatened residents were connected to the public water system. Remedial action at the landfill ran from September 2000 through September 2003, with construction fully complete by July 2003. The responsible parties carried out the long-term remedy, which EPA approved in September 2003.

The site was deleted from the National Priorities List in November 2005. Five-year reviews in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2020, and most recently December 2024 have all confirmed the remedy remains protective of human health and the environment. Human exposure pathways are under control, contaminated groundwater migration is stabilized, and no unacceptable risks remain. Institutional controls filed with the Genesee County Clerk in June 2005 prohibit well installation and restrict construction that could damage the landfill cap. The site achieved readiness for anticipated reuse in March 2009.

Community members with questions can contact EPA's Community Involvement Coordinator or the Remedial Project Manager. Site records are available at Richmond Library at 19 Ross Street in Batavia and at Batavia Town Hall at 4165 West Main Street.