| Abstract |
The Williams Property site, a 5.6-acre tract of land containing a single residence, is located in Middle Township, Cape May County, New Jersey. The site is wooded and surrounded by land zoned for agricultural and residential use. In 1979, approximately 150 drums of liquid chemical wastes and sludge were emptied on the Williams Property. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) investigated to determine the nature and extent of the contamination and the impact of the spill on the environment, particularly the ground water. The results indicated extensive contamination of surficial sludge, contamination of soil and ground water with heavy metals and a wide variety of organic chemicals. In June 1980, NJDEP removed approximately 1,200 cubic yds of sludge and soil. Continued evidence of ground water contaminants forced the closing of the Williams' well in 1984. It was subsequently discovered that widespread dumping of refuse and construction debris had occurred on the site for years. This dumping may have contributed to ground water contamination. Primary contaminants of concern include: bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, PCE, methylene chloride and xylene. |
