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American Cyanamid
Bridgewater Township, NJ
More Information
Public MeetingNo meetings scheduled. Contact InformationCecilia Echols - (212) 637-3678 echols.cecilia@epa.gov Mailing ListJoin our Mailing List to receive updates on EPA's activities at this Superfund site.
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EPA added the American Cyanamid site in Bridgewater Township, New Jersey to the Superfund National Priorities List on September 1, 1983 because hazardous chemicals were found in the soil and ground water. The 575-acre superfund site located in Somerset County contained various areas used for the disposal of chemical sludge and other wastes. Site soil and ground water were contaminated with metals and VOCs, which are potentially harmful contaminants that can easily evaporate into the air. Various other contaminants were found on-site including: cyanide, PCBs, and chromium. The site is across from the Raritan River and lies above the Brunswick Aquifer, New Jersey’s second largest source for drinking water. There are 30 private wells close to the site. Approximately 14,000 people live within a three mile radius of the site. The site is fenced off and access is restricted.
Due to the size and nature of the contamination, the cleanup plan was divided into several phases to address specific areas of contamination. EPA designated a specific area for the consolidation of contaminated materials. Soil cleanup and removal was completed in 1992. Recycling of material started in 2000 and is expected to continue for up to 20 years. Ground water monitoring is being performed to evaluate the site’s influence on the water quality of the Raritan River. In areas with the highest levels of contamination, high-energy tar is treated using a technology that removes VOCs, while low-energy tar is treated through a process that uses natural microorganisms to digest contaminants and break them down into non-hazardous components.
EPA determined in September 2003 that migration of contaminated ground water at the site is under control. After addressing site-related wetlands, closure of one of the areas has been completed with the construction of a fence, improvements to the raised banks, maintenance of natural vegetation, and ground water monitoring. EPA and NJDEP received a proposal in 2004 to suspend cleanup work for the areas of the highest contamination and for the reassessment of the entire site. The purpose of this approach is to complete all site-cleanup and to ensure reuse is achieved in shorter time frame.
