Metamora Landfill

Overview

Metamora Landfill is a 25-acre closed landfill in Metamora Township, Michigan that operated from 1955 to 1980. It was listed on the National Priorities List (NPL) in 1984, which triggered formal EPA oversight. The site has also been known as Kux Manufacturing Metamora Landfill and Metamora Sanitary Landfill. Waste disposal during its operating years contaminated both soil and groundwater with hazardous chemicals.

EPA identified 20 contaminants of concern at the site. These include chlorinated organic compounds such as trichloroethene, tetrachloroethene, vinyl chloride, and several dichloroethane and dichloroethene variants. Benzene, ethylbenzene, xylene, and methyl ethyl ketone are also present. The inorganic metals arsenic and barium have been detected in groundwater, as has 1,4-dioxane. All contaminants fall under Operable Unit 02, which covers the landfill and groundwater.

Cleanup work started in the mid-1980s across three operable units addressing source removal, landfill and groundwater treatment, and residual soils. Key actions included excavating and incinerating PCB (polychlorinated biphenyl)-contaminated material, consolidating moderately contaminated soil, and placing a cap over the landfill. Construction was completed in September 2001. The current groundwater approach relies on monitored natural attenuation, meaning natural environmental conditions are expected to reduce contaminant levels over time rather than active treatment. The potentially responsible parties conduct an ongoing annual groundwater investigation.

EPA completed its most recent five-year review in September 2024. That review found cleanup actions are protective of human health and the environment in the short term. However, it called for further evaluation of groundwater contamination, particularly 1,4-dioxane, to confirm that monitored natural attenuation remains effective. A separate assessment notes that EPA has insufficient data to determine whether groundwater migration is fully controlled. Human exposure is currently considered under control, with no unacceptable pathways for people to contact contamination. La Peer County Health restricts new residential well installations in areas with contaminated groundwater, and alternate water supplies are being offered to affected properties. Environmental covenants at the landfill prohibit development, restrict access, and ban groundwater well installation.

Community members can get involved through EPA's Superfund community involvement resources. EPA held a virtual public meeting on July 13, 2021 to explain an expanded groundwater investigation, and released a presentation and frequently asked questions document at that time. Site records are available for public review at the Lapeer District Library's Metamora Branch at 4018 South Oak Street in Metamora, Michigan. Questions about the site can be directed to the EPA contacts listed for this location.