The Swannanoa Superfund Community Advisory Group (CAG), formed in early 2013 and composed of local residents, continues to work closely with the EPA and other governmental agencies involved in the ongoing cleanup efforts at the Chemtronics Superfund Site in Swannanoa. The site, located off old Bee Tree Road, was a former chemical weapons manufacturing facility. It was placed on the federal Superfund list in 1985.

Last year, the EPA released a lengthy Remedial Investigation Report, which included data pertaining to the effectiveness of Pilot Studies on the property, an ecological risk assessment, and identification of areas of concern. Another major development last year came in the form of a request by the Potentially Responsible Parties, or PRPs (former and current owners of the property), to reduce the boundary of the Superfund site by de-listing approximately 500 acres. The CAG requested additional testing of the portion of the property slated for de-listing, and that request was denied. The de-listing, which is likely to be approved by the EPA, would eliminate the northern portion of the property where it slopes up to the ridge, and may potentially open this area to logging or other uses.

There is a strong need for proactive dialogue between the community and the EPA and PRPs over the next 6-8 months, as many reports, assessments and decisions are expected during Superfund Site – Community Involvement Logo this time period. The Swannanoa Superfund CAG encourages all interested residents to get involved, by becoming a member of the CAG and/or by attending meetings. Swannanoa residents with experience and skills in environmental issues, engineering, etc. are particularly needed. For more information about the CAG, please click here to visit the CAG website.

CAG meetings will posted under Upcoming Events section of this site.