| Abstract |
The Selma Pressure Treating Company is located in Selma, California, 15 miles south of the City of Fresno. The site encompasses approximately 18 acres, including a 3 to 4-acre wood treatment facility and 14 acres of adjacent vineyards that were used for site drainage. Wood preserving activities using pentachlorophenol (PCP) were conducted at the site from 1942 until 1965 under a series of owners. In 1965, a new facility was constructed converting operations to a pressure treating process using chemical preservatives. Prior to 1982, wastes generated from spent retort fluids and sludges were discharged to drainage and percolation ditches, dry wells, and an unlined pond and sludge pit, as well as onto open ground and the adjacent vineyards. An inspection conducted by EPA in 1981 raised concerns about the potential for ground water contamination, and as a result the company was required to modify its operations to minimize the potential for contamination. The primary contaminants of concern affecting the ground water and soil are organics including dioxin and phenols, and metals including arsenic and chromium. The selected remedial action for the site is included. |
