HELEN KRAMER LANDFILL

As of May 2026, the Helen Kramer Landfill Superfund site is considered ‘Insufficient Data to make a Human Exposure evaluation’ (HEID). This status does not necessarily mean that unacceptable exposures are occurring but describes that EPA lacks enough information to provide potential exposure risk. The 66 acre landfill received large volumes of chemical and solid waste and is believed to be more than 50 feet deep in most areas. A Record of Decision (ROD) was issued in 1985 for Operable Unit 1 which consists of the collection and treatment of shallow groundwater and leachate from the collection trench surrounding the landfill. Recent groundwater monitoring data indicate that contamination is migrating past the landfill containment system in both shallow and deep aquifers, and according to the Conceptual Site Model, impacted groundwater is migrating further downgradient and partially into Edwards Run Creek. Operable Unit 2 (OU2) addresses groundwater in the deep aquifer. OU2 will investigate and evaluate the leachate collection system, in addition to sampling contaminants in the shallow and deep aquifers along with Edwards run surface water and sediment. Contaminants of concern include volatile organic compounds, per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and 1,4 dioxane. Additional information is needed to determine whether actual or reasonably anticipated human exposures are occurring above acceptable risk based levels across all pathways and areas. EPA plans to collect sufficient information to complete a Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) for OU2; install and sample additional monitoring wells downgradient of the landfill to delineate the extent and migration of contamination in shallow and deep aquifers; assess potential discharge to Edwards Run Creek through surface water and sediment sampling; and prepare a Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) to evaluate exposure pathways such as use of private wells and contact with surface water and sediments, as applicable. EPA will use the RI/FS and HHRA results to determine the need for further actions and to support a Human Exposure determination. EPA currently anticipates there will be sufficient data to make a Human Exposure determination by September 2029 because the deep groundwater RI/FS and HHRA are expected to be completed and EPA expects to identify any needed remedy through a ROD for OU2 by that time. If you live or work near the site, you can reduce your potential exposure by using municipal water where available or testing private wells before use, avoiding contact with surface water and sediments in Edwards Run Creek near the landfill until evaluations are complete, and allowing access for sampling if requested. For more information, contact the EPA Community Involvement Coordinator Maya Greally via the site webpage or at (212) 637-3588 or [email protected]. EPA will continue to meet with residents and stakeholders, issue public notices and updated fact sheets, and keep the site profile on EPA’s website up to date.