EPA Superfund Site

ROLLING KNOLLS LF

NJ | EPA ID NJD980505192

About this site’s exposure pathways: As of January 2025, Human Exposure status at the Rolling Knolls Landfill Superfund Site is "Human Exposure Not Under Control" (HENC). The approximately 170-acre landfill is bounded by private residential properties to the north and northwest. Wetlands occupy the adjacent areas to the east, south, and west of the site. The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, approximately 35 acres of which are part of the site, also borders the site to the south and east.

A remedial investigation of soil, groundwater, sediment and surface water was completed in 2018. A human health risk assessment was completed in 2014 and updated in 2018 and found that polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in soil at the landfill pose an unacceptable risk to trespassers or passive recreators. An ecological risk assessment was completed in 2016 and elevated risks to ecological receptors were also noted. Groundwater sampling to date indicates isolated areas of contamination consisting primarily of metals, PCBs and benzene, and that contamination in groundwater is limited to a depth of about 25 feet below the surface, located above a thick confining clay layer in the landfilled area and is not migrating off-site. This shallow groundwater cannot be used for potable wells and nearby residents have a public water supply. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in groundwater is also present. EPA is currently evaluating cleanup options and release of a proposed plan to address the risks posed by the site is tentatively planned for 2026. EPA currently anticipates that human exposure will be under control by September 2028.

EPA 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. A Community Advisory Group (CAG) comprised of members representing diverse interests in the community has been established to disseminate site information and solicit public comments on project activities.