The Franklin Burn site sits across seven parcels in Franklin Township, Gloucester County, New Jersey. Workers once burned scrap copper wire and electrical components on the ground to strip plastic coatings and recover the copper. That process left behind ash and debris piles that contaminated soil, sediment, groundwater, and surface water with hazardous substances. Burning stopped in 1988 and has not resumed since.
EPA placed the site on the National Priorities List in June 1996. A remedial investigation started in September 1992. Between the start of investigations and 1997, about 10,063 tons of debris, ash, and contaminated soil were excavated and disposed of off-site across all seven parcels. Workers also consolidated contaminated soil and installed temporary fencing to limit exposure. A removal action ran from March to May 1997. Construction was completed in July 2003, and EPA selected a final remedy of No Further Action in May 2004.
EPA assessments show that human exposure to contamination is under control. There are no unacceptable pathways for people to contact remaining contamination, and the site meets all cleanup goals for current and reasonably expected future uses. Contaminated groundwater is not discharging to surface water in unacceptable amounts, and EPA will continue monitoring to confirm that groundwater contamination stays within its current area. The site achieved sitewide ready for anticipated reuse status in July 2017, meaning all required land-use controls are in place.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has recommended additional studies at the site. EPA and the state agency are continuing to discuss possible next steps.
Community members who want to learn more or stay involved can contact the EPA's Community Involvement Coordinator, who can answer questions about public participation, or the Remedial Project Manager, who handles technical cleanup questions.
