EPA Superfund Site

PIERSON'S CREEK

NJ | EPA ID NJD002144517

About this site’s exposure pathways: As of January 2025, there is insufficient information to determine the site-wide human exposure status at the Pierson's Creek site. The site consists of Pierson’s Creek, which discharges to Newark Bay approximately 1.5 miles downstream of its headwaters, and several sources of contamination to the creek, including the Troy Chemical Corporation facility, located just upstream of Pierson's Creek. Prior to the facility's current operations, the facility was occupied by other industrial operators since the late 1800s. Mercury compounds were manufactured at the facility and the mercury wastewater was treated on-site with sulfide precipitation prior to discharge to the creek. In addition to the discharge of mercury-contaminated wastewater, there is a history of spills and discharges to the ground surface characterized by puddles of chemicals on the ground, and mercury droplets on the ground and in runoff reaching Pierson's Creek.

The site consists of two operable units. The site has been the focus of numerous investigations since the 1970s, but actions to date have not addressed mercury contamination downstream. EPA is currently working on a remedial investigation/feasibility study (RI/FS) for Operable Unit 1 of the site which consists of the Creek and an upland area where dredge spoils were sidecast. An Administrative Order on Consent (AOC) was signed with Troy Chemical Corporation in November 2017 in which they agreed to perform an RI/FS on their property. This RI/FS is being performed as Operable Unit 2 of the Pierson's Creek site and is currently underway, expected completion in 2027 Once each RI is completed, a risk assessment for each operable unit will be prepared to determine the potential impact to human health and the environment. It is anticipated that upon completion of these risk assessments and the selection of the remedies, a sitewide human exposure determination can be made.

In addition, EPA currently ensures community participation throughout the remedial process by meeting with residents and affected stakeholders, issuing public notices and updating fact sheets. A site profile has been established on the EPA website to keep the community informed of recent progress at the site. Additionally, an EPA Community Involvement Coordinator is assigned to the site and can address specific community concerns as they arise.