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Universal Oil Products
East Rutherford, NJ
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Involvement Coordinator
Dave Kluesner (212) 637-3653
kluesner.dave@epa.gov
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EPA added the Universal Oil Products site in East Rutherford, New Jersey to the Superfund National Priorities List on September 1, 1983 because hazardous chemicals were found in the soil, surface water and ground water. The 75-acre superfund site located in Bergen County contained a facility that manufactured various chemicals and recovered solvents. During its operation, Universal Oil Products dumped approximately 4.5 million gallons of waste solvents and solid waste chemicals into two unlined lagoons, contaminating the site. Ground water on-site is contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are potentially harmful pollutants that can easily evaporate into the air. The soil is contaminated with hazardous materials including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and lead. Approximately 36,500 people within three miles of the site depend on ground water for their source of drinking water. Local industries also use the ground water for industrial processes. People who come into direct contact with or accidentally ingest contaminated soil, sediments, ground water or surface water may suffer health effects. Ackerman’s Creek passes through the site, and Berry’s Creek borders the southeastern part of the site, running downstream three miles to join the Hackensack River. Local residents use the area’s surface water for recreation.
EPA and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) oversaw the removal of liquids, sludge and sediments from the site’s surface. EPA and NJDEP also monitored a study of the nature and extent of contamination of site soils and ground water. Cleanup of the contaminated soil and a portion of the ground water were completed. Lead-contaminated soil was excavated and placed under the on-site cap. Highly contaminated soil was removed and transported to a hazardous waste landfill. Ground water was cleaned by an on-site treatment system. The initial investigation of the wetland and creek areas is complete. The first and second phases of cleanup have been completed, and a third phase is under way.
