The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a commitment to clean up six new sites – including the Hockessin Groundwater Site in Delaware.
The sites were added to the Superfund National Priorities List (NPL).
The NPL is the list of hazardous waste sites in the United States eligible for remedial action financed under the federal Superfund program.
The EPA originally proposed the Hockessin site to the NPL on January 18. The designation is now finalized following a 60-day public comment period.
The EPA’s next step will be to conduct a remedial investigation and feasibility study to determine the extent of contamination and assess potential threats to human health and the environment. This also includes evaluation of various cleanup options.
The Hockessin site consists of about 32 acres along Delaware State Route 41 through Hockessin and includes commercial, business, and residential properties.
An EPA assessment has identified considerable movement of PCE contamination in the groundwater in Hockessin.
“The Greater Hockessin Area Development Association (GHADA) and the entire community are pleased to have the Hockessin groundwater site considered for inclusion on the National Priorities List for remediation and environmental recovery efforts,” said GHADA President Mark Blake. “Having the expertise and resources that the Environmental Protection Agency can bring to bear on this critical issue, is the best possible outcome for everyone involved.”
Dry cleaners in the area are suspected of contributing to the pollution with other sources also a possibility. The Artesian Water Company uses groundwater wells as the primary source of drinking water in this area. The water company treats the contaminated groundwater, and the final processed drinking water meets all regulatory standards.
Academic research has shown that Superfund cleanups reduce birth defects within approximately one mile of a site as much as 25 percent, according to the EPA.
Cleanups also increase tax revenue and create jobs during and after cleanup. According to EPA data, 487 of the 888 Superfund sites cleaned up for reuse supported approximately 6,600 businesses in 2017. The ongoing operations at these businesses generate annual sales of $43.6 billion and employ more
The Superfund Task Force Recommendations can be viewed at https://www.epa.gov/superfund/superfund-task-force-recommendations
