Summary Information
(last updated on: 1/6/2022 1:17:52 PM)
Site evaluation of historical fire training pits completed prior to 2003, with additional evalaution recommended by DEQ. Subsequent to this, additional investigation of the historical pits was completed by the Port of Portland, and both areas capped with, apparently, some contaminated material removal. No apparent DEQ engagement from 2003 to 2016. In 2016, DEQ Cleanup requested that the Port investigate the historical pits to determine whether perfluorinated compounds including PFOS and PFOA might have been released, as these compounds were present in fire-fighting foams historically used in this area. The Port has indicated that they will enter the VCP and complete requested investigation under a consent order. Development of the order is expected to start in late 2016.
Investigation was begun in 2017 with collection of groundwater samples from the vicinity of the former pits. PFAS including PFOA and PFOS were detected well above risk-based screening values (EPA HA drinking water values). A site-wide assessment of AFFF use was completed in August 2017, and a more comprehensive work plan approved by DEQ in late August. Sampling included groundwater, soil, surface water, and sediment.
PFAS were detected in soil, groundwater, and stormwater. After discussion, a work plan was submitted in April 2018 for further contaminant characterization. Work included sampling of wells located between the historical AFFF use areas and City of Portland wells located in the vicinity of I-205 (western wellfield). Results presented to DEQ in October 2018. The extent of PFAS in groundwater are better characterized, and not expected to pose a risk to City of Portland wellfield resources. Nevertheless, additional site work is warranted including installation and sampling of monitoring wells.
In November 2018, DEQ approved a revised Additional Investigation Report for PFAS and a Work Plan for additional site characterization.
As of May 2020, multiple phases of PFAS investigation (soil, groundwater, surface water, and stormwater) have been completed. Soil impacts are modest. Shallow groundwater contamination is extensive, but appears confined to the PDX property. Contaminated groundwater appears is discharging to stormwater ditches, some of which is discharging to Columbia Slough.
PFAS RI pending as of January 2022.
| Site: |
Portland Airport Fire Training Pits (ECSI Site ID: 3324) |
CERCLIS (EPA) Id | |
| Project Manager: |
Daniel Hafley |
Investigative Status: | Listed on the Confirmed Release List or Inventory |
| PM Phone: |
(503) 229-5417
|
NPL(National Priority Listing): | No |
| Address: |
NW of airport terminal, adjacent to runway area |
Is this site an Orphan? | No |
| Portland,
97218 |
Is this site a brownfield? | No |
| County: |
MULTNOMAH |
Action Underway or Needed: |
REMEDIAL INVESTIGATION |
| Region: |
Northwest Region |
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