News Releases from Region 08

EPA finalizes interim record of decision for soils and indoor dust at Colorado Smelter site in Pueblo

Community supports cleanup plan/public comment period closed on Sept. 15, 2017

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment (CDPHE) are announcing the completion of the early interim record of decision for the residential properties portion of Operable Unit 1 - “Community Properties” following the close of the public comment period on Sept. 15, 2017.

The interim record of decision documents EPA’s plan to conduct early cleanup actions for soil removal and replacement to 18 inches below ground surface, as well as indoor dust cleanups where necessary.  The ROD is “interim” because it is done before the remedial investigation and feasibility study for the site is complete.  EPA is taking this action “early” in order to protect the previously completed indoor dust cleanups.

“EPA appreciates the input received on the interim record of decision and recognizes the overall community support for the cleanup actions selected by the EPA,” said Sabrina Forrest, Project Manager. “We share the community’s desire that the cleanup start and be completed as rapidly as possible.”

EPA will continue to engage in a comprehensive, multi-pathway approach with local partners that has been successfully addressing lead exposures at the site since 2015. The interim decision includes soil removal and replacement in a three-stage process that involves excavation of contaminated soils, disposal of excavated materials at an appropriate offsite location, and replacement with clean soils down to 18 inches below the surface.

More information can be found in the administrative record file for the site, which includes the interim record of decision and all documents that formed the basis for EPA’s selection of the interim clean-up remedy, at: www.epa.gov/superfund/colorado-smelter