EPA Superfund Site

BLACK RIVER PCBS

NY | EPA ID NYN000206296

About this site’s exposure pathways: As of January 2025, there is insufficient information available to determine the site-wide human exposure control status at the Black River PCBs site. The sediments in the portion of the Black River that constitutes the site (downstream of the town of Carthage, NY) contain elevated levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The Black River is used for recreational purposes including boating and fishing. There is a concern that the contaminated sediments may pose a risk to human health through the consumption of fish. A fish advisory is in place that is specific to the site.

EPA has prepared a remedial investigation, a feasibility study and risk assessments for the site. EPA anticipates that a monitored natural recovery (MNR) remedy may be the preferred remedy for the site, but the state is not yet in agreement and has asked for further supporting information. EPA plans to perform additional fish sampling in 2025. Selection of a remedy and a determination of the site-wide human exposure under control status for the site are expected in 2026 pending additional discussion with the state and performance of additional sampling.

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.