Ossineke Ground Water Contamination

Overview

Leaking underground storage tanks at three locations in Ossineke, Michigan caused soil and groundwater contamination. EPA added the site to the Superfund National Priorities List in September 1983 after an initial assessment in August 1982. The site sits in Alpena County and is now classified as a deleted NPL (National Priorities List) site, meaning it no longer requires active Superfund oversight.

The main contaminants are petroleum-related volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chemicals that can evaporate from liquids and potentially affect air, soil, and groundwater. Groundwater is the primary affected medium. People can be exposed through accidental ingestion or direct skin contact with contaminated groundwater. Wetlands located eight miles from the site may also be threatened.

Between 1979 and 1984, EPA replaced 14 wells that showed traces of contamination. After a 1991 investigation confirmed underground storage tanks as the source, EPA's Underground Storage Tank program took over cleanup efforts. Five tanks and associated piping were removed by late 1995. One operable unit covering groundwater treatment was established, and a Record of Decision issued in June 1991 selected no action for groundwater treatment. Construction activities were completed by 2003. A 2006 evaluation determined that long-term human health protection had been achieved at the site.

EPA determined that human exposure to contamination is currently under control across the entire site, with no unacceptable exposure pathways. Contaminated groundwater is stabilized, and there is no unacceptable discharge to surface water. No residents currently obtain drinking water from the contaminated groundwater. Zoning restrictions and other institutional controls limit land use to activities compatible with the contamination levels. The site is not yet sitewide ready for anticipated use, so EPA will continue monitoring to confirm contaminated groundwater remains in the original contamination area. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality now oversees the site as an Open Leaking Underground Storage Tank location.

Community members can review site records at NBD Alpena Bank, located at 11688 US Highway 23 South in Ossineke, Michigan. Two EPA staff members are available to answer questions directly.