EPA Superfund site
BLACK RIVER PCBS
Exposure status: insufficient data
Data limitations: Proximity to a Superfund site boundary does not mean your property is contaminated. EPA site boundaries show the area designated for cleanup, not the full extent of contamination. Groundwater plumes can extend beyond site boundaries. This tool shows publicly available EPA federal data. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by EPA, and is not a substitute for a professional environmental assessment.
About this site's exposure pathways
As of May 2026, the Black River PCBs Superfund site is considered “Insufficient Data to make a Human Exposure evaluation” (HEID). This status does not necessarily mean that unacceptable exposures are occurring. Sediments in the Black River downstream of Carthage, N.Y., contain elevated polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The river is used for boating and fishing, and fish consumption is a reasonably anticipated exposure pathway. A site‑specific fish consumption advisory is in place to reduce exposure. However, available information is not yet sufficient to determine whether actual or reasonably anticipated human exposures are occurring above acceptable risk‑based levels across all reaches and seasons.
Planned activities to collect sufficient information include evaluating fish tissue sampled in late 2025, and, as needed, collecting supplemental sediment and porewater samples to confirm trends. EPA will evaluate these data through an updated Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) and use multiple lines of evidence (e.g., fish tissue trends, sediment concentrations, and depositional patterns) to assess whether monitored natural recovery (MNR) can be protective. EPA will continue coordination with the state to address data needs and remedy selection.
EPA currently anticipates there will be sufficient data to make a Human Exposure determination by September 2026 because the 2025 fish sampling will be evaluated (the 2025 fish data is expected to be recieved by EPA by June 2026), the HHRA will be updated, and the Record of Decision (ROD) identifying a remedy will be issued by that time.
If you live or recreate near the site, you can reduce your exposure by following the site‑specific fish consumption advisory, practicing catch‑and‑release, and avoiding contact with visibly contaminated sediments. Obey posted signs and local advisories. For more information, contact the Community Involvement Coordinator Michael Basile via the site webpage or at (716) 551-4410 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.