PUBLIC HEALTH ASSESSMENT
LAKE CITY ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT
[(a/k/a LAKE CITY ARMY AMMUNITION PLANT (NORTHWEST LAGOON)]
INDEPENDENCE, JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) prepared this public health assessment (PHA) to evaluate exposure pathways and to respond to community concerns about past, current, and potential future exposures to contaminants originating at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP). After considering the most currently available information, ATSDR found that contaminant releases at LCAAP do not pose a public health hazard. ATSDR has categorized this site as a "No Apparent Public Health Hazard" because exposure to contaminants in groundwater and from air emissions in the past may have occurred (see definition in Table 1).
LCAAP is an active plant covering approximately 3,955 acres in Jackson County, Missouri. LCAAP, originally called Lake City Arsenal, has been in continuous operation since 1941, except for a 5-year period between World War II and the Korean War. The plant was originally established as a government-owned, contractor-operated military installation to produce small caliber ammunition. LCAAP is entirely fenced and access to the plant is restricted.
A number of chemicals are used in the plant's production process including detergents, bleaches,
explosive compounds (e.g., lead azide and lead styphnate), petroleum and lubricating oils, and
trichloroethylene (TCE) and other solvents. Previous wastewater 
treatment and solid waste disposal
practices at LCAAP relied on unlined lagoons , landfills, and burn pits. These past practices resulted
in contamination of soil, groundwater, and some surface water bodies at the plant.
ATSDR conducted a site visit at LCAAP in 1999. ATSDR viewed the areas of contamination, met with LCAAP representatives, and gathered information used to evaluate potential public health hazards from exposure to environmental contaminants. ATSDR did not identify any completed exposure pathways requiring immediate action. The primary community health concern involves potential groundwater contamination and drinking water quality. In this PHA, ATSDR evaluates potential exposures to groundwater, soil, surface water and sediment, and air.
Following a 1985 preliminary assessment/site investigation, LCAAP was divided into 33 study
areas. These areas are currently grouped into three operable units (OUs): the Area 18 OU, the
Northeast Corner OU (Areas 11, 16, and 17), and the Installation-Wide OU, which includes all
other study areas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency placed LCAAP on the National
Priorities List of hazardous waste sites in 1987 because of groundwater contamination in Area 3.
Each of the areas of contamination has been investigated. A final record of decision (ROD) for the
Area 18 OU and an interim ROD for the Northeast Corner OU have been released. An interim
remedial action ROD for metals contaminated soil for the Installation-Wide OU is expected to be
signed in the Fall 2001. As of the release of this report, LCAAP has not proposed a schedule for
completing a final ROD for the Installation-Wide OU.
ATSDR reviewed available on-site groundwater data. Chemicals in on-site monitoring wells detected at levels above ATSDR's health-based comparison values (CVs) include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) (e.g., TCE, 1,2-dichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride), metals (e.g., lead, manganese, and arsenic), and some explosives (e.g., cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (royal demolition explosives) [RDX] and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (high melting explosives).
Groundwater beneath LCAAP is used as a potable drinking water source. The plant obtains its drinking water from 13 active on-site supply wells. TCE and vinyl chloride have been and continue to be detected above their CVs in three of the plant supply wells. A former supply well, currently being used as a groundwater extraction well, contained high levels of vinyl chloride and 1,2-dichloroethylene. Eight supply wells are currently connected to five air strippers, installed between 1988 and 1990, that are designed to remove VOCs. Recent drinking water tests at LCAAP have met state and federal standards for safe drinking water.
Although exposures to some VOCs may have occurred in the past, it is unlikely that these exposures occurred at levels of health concern because most of the supply wells that were used for drinking water at LCAAP were not contaminated. No individuals consumed water exclusively from the supply wells that were found to contain VOCs. The water from all the supply wells is blended and stored in a large (500,000 gallon) holding tank where any VOCs would be significantly diluted. ATSDR concludes that past exposures to on-site contaminants in drinking water supply wells posed no public health hazard. Because past exposure was possible, however, ATSDR has categorized this pathway as a "No Apparent Public Health Hazard." On the basis of currently available data and the ongoing water treatment, ATSDR concludes that exposure to contaminants in on-site drinking water poses no current or future public health hazards.
The Installation-Wide OU groundwater plumes are contained on site and are not expected to migrate beyond the plant's perimeter. The Area 18 OU and the Northeast Corner OU contain groundwater plumes that are near or just beyond the northern perimeter of the plant. VOCs, lead, and cadmium have been detected in a few private wells located to the north of these source areas at levels exceeding their CVs. ATSDR evaluated data from private drinking water wells and determined that VOCs and metals have not been present at levels of health concern. On the basis of currently available data, ATSDR concludes that exposure to contaminants in private drinking water wells poses no past, current, or future public health hazards. ATSDR has categorized this pathway as a "No Apparent Public Health Hazard" since exposure is still possible in the future.
ATSDR reviewed available on-site soil data. VOCs, metals, explosives, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were detected in surface soil above their CVs at some study areas. Access to the plant, however, is restricted and the small housing area located in the southwestern corner of the plant is isolated and distant from the main industrial area where the areas of contamination are located. Under LCAAPs Facility Use Contract initiative, any proposed new land use at the Plant must be reviewed by LCAAP and the Operations Support Command. In addition, any proposed reuse of land must meet existing legal agreements and conditions, including land use restrictions and institutional controls. In addition, state (MNDNR) and federal (EPA) regulatory agencies are responsible for making sure that contaminated areas meet the applicable clean-up standards for the proposed land use. On the basis of available data, ATSDR concludes that exposure to contaminants in soil poses no past, current, or future public health hazard.
ATSDR reviewed on-site surface water and sediment data. VOCs, metals, and explosives (e.g., RDX) were detected above their CVs in some surface water and sediment samples. Most of the surface water and sediment samples taken were in close proximity to sources of contamination where exposures are unlikely to have occurred. Surface water and sediment samples collected off site did not contain contaminants above CVs. From the available data, ATSDR concludes that exposure to contaminants in surface water and sediment poses no past, current, or future public health hazards.
ATSDR also reviewed potential past exposures to air emissions from burning of explosive materials (i.e., wet pyrotechnics and propellant powder) and from VOC emissions from the sealing operations units at LCAAP. Exposures to VOCs and other air pollutants may have occurred in the past; however, there are no monitoring data to evaluate whether contaminants released into air were present at levels that were harmful. Most VOCs were released near the center of the plant, within the main industrial area, and it is unlikely that ambient air concentrations would have been high enough to pose a health hazard to residents living at the housing area on site or at off-site locations near LCAAP. At present, the sources of contamination either no longer exist or measures have been taken to reduce emissions. Open burning of explosive materials stopped in 1993 and VOC emissions are currently being controlled through source reduction measures. For these reasons, ATSDR concludes that air contaminants in and around LCAAP pose no public health hazard for past, current, or future exposures. For past exposures, ATSDR has categorized the air pathway as a "No Apparent Public Health Hazard" since exposures may have occurred in the past.
Table 1. ATSDR Hazard Categories for LCAAP
| CONCLUSION CATEGORY | SITUATIONS/SITES |
| No Apparent Public Health Hazards | A. Past exposure to on-site groundwater at LCAAP (i.e., drinking water supply wells) B. Past, current, or future exposures to off-site groundwater (i.e., private drinking water wells) C. Past exposure to ambient air contaminants at LCAAP |
| No Public Health Hazards | A. Current or future exposures to on-site groundwater at LCAAP (i.e., drinking water supply wells) B. Past, current, or future exposures to soil contamination at LCAAP C. Past, current, or future exposures to surface water and sediment at LCAAP D. Current or future exposures to ambient air contaminants at LCAAP |
Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP) is an active plant covering approximately 3,955 acres in Jackson County, Missouri. The plant is located near the eastern boundary of the city of Independence and is approximately 3 miles north of Blue Springs, 2 miles southwest of Buckner, and adjacent to Lake City to the north (Figure 1). The plant is bordered to the west by Missouri State Highway No. 7 and to the east by private residences and agricultural land. The plant is between U.S. Highway 24 to the north and U.S. Highway 70 to the south. A narrow unpaved road, Heidelburger Road, runs along the northern boundary of the plant. There are also railroad tracks that run along the northern perimeter of the plant.
LCAAP, originally called Lake City Arsenal, has been in continuous operation since 1941, except for a 5-year period between World War II and the Korean War. The plant was originally established as a government-owned, contractor-operated military installation to produce small caliber ammunition. The plant has been modified since World War II to produce larger ammunition. LCAAP is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Industrial Operations Command. The operating contractor from 1941 to 1985 was Remington Arms. In November 1985, the plant operation was assumed by Olin Corporation (Burns and McDonnell 1999). The current operating contractor at LCAAP is Alliant Techsystems, which assumed operations from Olin Corporation in April 2000 (G. Anderson, Installation Restoration Program (IRP) Project Manager, personal communication, February 8, 2001).
LCAAP is the largest producer of rifle and machine gun ammunition for the U.S.
Army. Support areas for the plant include an environmental laboratory, wastewater
treatment plant , firing ranges, a calibration laboratory, machine shop, pipe
fitting shop, electric shop, and a wood shop (USACHPPM 1998). Access to LCAAP
is restricted by an outer fence surrounding the entire plant and an inner fence
surrounding the main industrial area, which includes the high explosives manufacturing
areas. Army Reserve and National Guard training exercises have also taken place
on site since the 1960s. Most training exercises are conducted at the firing
ranges in the eastern section of the plant, located southwest of Veteran's Lake.
The firing range is fenced and only authorized personnel are allowed access.
Chemicals that are used on site in the plant's production process include soaps, detergents, bleaches, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, explosive compounds (e.g., lead azide and lead styphnate), phosphate cleaners, petroleum and lubricating oils, and trichloroethylene (TCE) and other cleaning solvents. Previous wastewater treatment and solid waste disposal practices at LCAAP relied on burn pits, unlined lagoons, and landfills. Past waste disposal practices resulted in contamination of soil, groundwater, and some surface water bodies at the plant. Current waste management includes treatment through a permitted industrial wastewater treatment plant (IWTP) and disposal to an off-site Resource Conservation and Recovery Act permitted waste disposal facility (EA Engineering 1994).
In 1980, an installation assessment (IA) of LCAAP was conducted to assess the environmental quality of the plant with regard to use, storage, treatment, and disposal of hazardous substances, and to identify potential public health hazards (USACHPPM 1998). The IA included a preliminary investigation of all past waste disposal sites and chemical releases and focused on seven areas within the plant which had previously been used for industrial waste storage, including landfills, chemical laboratories, and an IWTP. Initial sampling indicated the presence of explosives, metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and related breakdown products in soil and groundwater (Plexus Scientific Corp. 1996).
In 1985, the United States Army Toxic and Hazardous Materials Agency, as part of the Department of Defense's Installation Restoration Program, conducted a preliminary assessment/site investigation (PA/SI) at LCAAP. The PA/SI involved the installation of 24 groundwater monitoring wells and the analysis of 48 soil and water samples. All groundwater sample locations contained VOCs, semivolatile organic chemicals (SVOCs), explosives, and metals. As a result of finding silver in groundwater samples collected from Area 3 that exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) drinking water maximum contaminant levels, EPA placed LCAAP on the National Priorities List of hazardous waste sites in 1987 (EA Engineering 1989; USACHPPM 1998). In August 1987, LCAAP implemented a potable well sampling program which included monitoring of some off-site private drinking water wells (USATHAMA 1990).
Following the PA/SI, LCAAP was divided into 33 study areas. These areas are currently grouped into three operable units (OUs): the Area 18 OU, the Northeast Corner OU (Areas 11, 16, and 17), and the Installation-Wide OU, which includes all other study areas. The remedial investigation has been completed for the Area 18 OU and is still in progress for the Northeast Corner OU and for the Installation-Wide OU. A record of decision (ROD) has been completed for the Area 18 OU and a ROD for Interim Remedial Action has been completed for the Northeast Corner OU. An Interim Remedial Action ROD for metals contaminated soil for the Installation-Wide OU is scheduled to be signed in the Fall 2001. LCAAP is still working on developing a schedule for releasing a final ROD for the Installation-Wide OU. A more detailed description of each of the 33 study areas (Figure 2) and their corresponding OUs is included in Table 2.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) released a Preliminary Health Assessment for LCAAP in January 1989. Based on limited available information at that time, ATSDR considered LCAAP to be of potential public health concern because of the risk to human health from exposure to contaminants through groundwater, soil, and surface water pathways. As part of the public health assessment process, ATSDR conducted a site visit and met with representatives from LCAAP in April 1999. During the site visit, ATSDR viewed the areas of contamination and gathered information. At the time, ATSDR did not identify any completed exposure pathways requiring immediate action. In July, 2001, ATSDR participated in a public availability session (PAS) at LCAAP. ATSDR extended the public comment period until July 26, 2001 for the PHA so that community members would have an opportunity to provide any additional comments or concerns at the PAS.
ATSDR examines demographic information, or population information, to identify the presence of sensitive populations, such as young children and the elderly, in the vicinity of a site. Demographics also provide details on residential history in a particular area, information that helps ATSDR assess time frames of potential human exposure to contaminants. Demographic information for the site and residential areas surrounding LCAAP is presented in this section.
Peak employment at the plant occurred during World War II, with over 20,000 employees.Since then, the number of people employed at LCAAP has diminished considerably. As of April 2000, LCAAP employs approximately 700 people, nearly all are civilians (Plexus Scientific Corp. 1996). There are 11 dwellings located in the southwestern portion of the plant reserved for military personnel. There are currently 51 residents living in this housing area and approximately 29 of these individuals are under the age of 18. This small housing area is on a hill and is separated from the main part of the plant by natural vegetation. An inner fence also separates the housing area from the high explosive production area in the south central part of the plant. Although a small number of children reside in the housing area, there are no day care centers or schools located at the plant.
According to 1997 census estimates, the population of Jackson County, where LCAAP is located, is approximately 648,000. According to the 1990 U.S. Census, however, there are less than 65 people who live within a one mile radius of LCAAP. Two small residential communities, Lake City, to the north (population less than 25 with 10 occupied dwellings), and Buckner, to the northeast (population of approximately 3,000) are located near LCAAP.
Land Use and Natural Resources
LCAAP is entirely fenced and access is controlled by a guarded gate at the main entrance. Other gates around the plant are generally not open unless supervised by official personnel. The plant contains 461 buildings and the industrial area occupies approximately 700 acres of flat land located in the central portion of the plant (USACHPPM 1998).
LCAAP lies within the Osage Plains Section of the Central Lowlands Physiographic Province. This area is characterized as a plain of low relief with broad stream valleys and flood plains of the Missouri River. It is underlain by nearly flat-lying, late Paleozoic sedimentary strata (EA Engineering 1994). The north and west portions of the plant are relatively flat areas whereas the south and east portions of the plant form uplands which have narrow crested ridges and 150 to 160 feet of relief from valley floor to ridge top.
Approximately 520 acres in the northeastern part of LCAAP are maintained as an outdoor recreation area. Veteran's Lake, covering 17 acres, is located within the recreation area and is used for fishing, hunting in specified areas, and mushroom harvesting. Efforts have been made to stock catfish in Veteran's Lake. There are also many ponds scattered throughout the plant, some of which may be used for fishing. Deer and wild turkeys are two common species of wildlife that are found on the plant's grounds. During the hunting season, the number of hunting permits is regulated and hunting is only allowed during normal non-operating hours of the plant, such as weekends and holidays. The recreation area is not located near any areas of contamination, however, because the area is located within the overshoot of the ballistics firing range, camping is not permitted (USACHPPM 1998).
Quality Assurance and Quality Control
In preparing this PHA, ATSDR reviewed and evaluated information provided in the referenced documents. Documents prepared for the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) programs must meet specific standards for adequate quality assurance and control measures for chain-of-custody procedures, laboratory procedures, and data reporting. The environmental data presented in this PHA are from site characterization, remedial investigation, and groundwater monitoring reports prepared by the United States Army under CERCLA and RCRA. The validity of the analyses and conclusions drawn in this document are dependent on the availability and reliability of the referenced information. ATSDR reviews data from site-related reports and evaluates whether detection limits are set at levels that are protective of public health. ATSDR also notes any inconsistencies or problems with data collection or reporting and evaluates whether the information is adequate to be used for making public health decisions. Based on our evaluation, ATSDR determined that the quality of environmental data available for most site-related documents for LCAAP is adequate to make public health decisions.
EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL EXPOSURE PATHWAYS
In this section, ATSDR evaluates whether community members have been (past), are (current), or could be (future) exposed to harmful levels of chemicals. ATSDR's exposure evaluation process is presented in Figure 3. As the figure indicates, ATSDR considers how people might come into contact with, or be exposed to, contaminated media. Specifically, ATSDR determines whether an exposure could occur through ingestion, dermal (skin) contact with contaminated media, or inhalation of vapors, and also considers the likely length (duration) and frequency of the exposure.
If exposure was or is possible, ATSDR then considers whether chemicals were or are present at levels that might be harmful to people. ATSDR does this by screening the concentrations of contaminants in an environmental medium (e.g., soil, water, air) against health-based comparison values (CVs). CVs are chemical concentrations that health scientists have determined are not likely to cause adverse effects, even when assuming very conservative/safe exposure scenarios. Because CVs are not thresholds of toxicity, environmental levels that exceed CVs would not necessarily produce adverse health effects. If a chemical is found in the environment at levels exceeding its corresponding CV, ATSDR examines potential exposure variables and the toxicology of the contaminant. ATSDR emphasizes that regardless of the level of contamination, a public health hazard exists only if people come in contact with, or are otherwise exposed to, harmful levels of contaminated media.
Environmental data for potential exposure pathways have been reviewed by ATSDR. Following the strategy outlined above, ATSDR examined whether human exposure to harmful levels of contaminants via these pathways existed in the past, exists currently, or could potentially exist in the future. ATSDR summarizes its evaluation of these exposure pathways in Table 3 and describes it in more detail in the discussion that follows. To acquaint readers with terminology used in this report, a list of CVs and a glossary are included in Appendices A and B, respectively.
Evaluation of Groundwater Exposure Pathway
Conclusion
Discussion
Physical Characteristics and Hydrogeology
Generally, LCAAP groundwater flows to the north and northwest. However, a groundwater flow divide exists in the central portion of LCAAP as a result of pumping of groundwater from production wells. During groundwater investigations at LCAAP, a model was developed to help conceptualize how groundwater flows underneath LCAAP. The model identifies three hydrostratigraphic units (HUs) (HU1, HU2, and HU3) (EA Engineering 1994):
HU1, the shallowest unit, covers most of the plant. The horizontal hydraulic gradients in HU1 are strongly influenced by both topography and the surface water drainage ditches. These ditches were constructed in areas of natural drainage depressions in order to control flooding. HU1 is also affected by the withdrawal of groundwater from the deeper HU2 aquifer (EA Engineering 1998a).
A large portion of LCAAP, primarily the western and northeastern portion, is situated in a valley where the water table is very shallow. The far west and southwestern portion of the plant consists primarily of uplands. The valley consists of HU1, HU2, and HU3, whereas the uplands generally only contain HU1 and HU3. The major difference between the two areas is that the groundwater flow in the uplands is strongly influenced by topography and the flow in the valley is primarily controlled by pumping of the water supply and recovery wells (Dames & Moore 1999).
Groundwater Use
The plant's potable and industrial water needs are provided by a series of 22 production wells. LCAAP currently obtains its drinking water from 13 active on-site supply wells. All drinking water supplied by on-site production wells is screened in the HU2 aquifer at approximately 90 feet bgs. Eight of the 13 water supply wells are currently connected to five air strippers that remove most of the VOCs prior to distribution (Dames & Moore 1999; F.J. Abshier, Olin Corporation, Winchester Division, personal communication, October 26, 1999). The air strippers were installed between 1988 and 1990. After the raw water is processed through the air strippers, groundwater is pumped through an aerator to a clarifier, where lime (to achieve optimal pH for water softening) and alum (a coagulant) are added. The water then flows through sand filters for removal of suspended solids. The water is chlorinated and the finished water from all 13 supply wells is collected in a 500,000 gallon holding tank where the water is blended prior to distribution (USACHPPM 1998)(W. Melton, Environmental Engineer, LCAAP, personal communication, 1999). According to plant officials, the on-site housing units have been connected to the city of Independence municipal water supply for over 4 years (G. Kelso, Environmental Engineer, LCAAP, personal communication, June 29, 1999).
The communities surrounding LCAAP rely mostly on groundwater for their drinking water supply. The residents living near LCAAP are supplied with municipal water primarily from one of three sources: 1) Jackson County residents living to the west, northwest, and southwest (Independence), south (Blue Springs), north (Lake City), and northeast (Buckner) of LCAAP obtain drinking water mostly from the city of Independence water department, which obtains water almost entirely from groundwater supplies; 2) some residents living north and northeast of LCAAP obtain their water from the Kansas City Water Services, which uses about half groundwater and half surface water from the Missouri River about 8 miles to the north of LCAAP; and 3) a small number of residents living southeast and east of LCAAP get municipal water from the Jackson County public water supply, which purchases most of its water from the Kansas City Water Services or the city of Independence water department (MDNR 1999). A small number of residences north of LCAAP also rely on private wells for their drinking water. Most of the private wells to the north of the plant draw water from the Lake City Aquifer.
Nature and Extent of Groundwater Contamination
On-Site Groundwater Contamination
Results of 1999 quarterly and annual monitoring of drinking water from LCAAP's water supply plant (treated water prior to distribution) showed that vinyl chloride (0.9 parts per billion [ppb]) slightly exceeded ATSDR's health-based CV of 0.7 ppb. Four other chemicals exceeding CVs, bromodichloromethane (BDCM) (6.2 ppb), bromoform (5.0 ppb), bromomethane (69.6 ppb), and dibromochloromethane (CDBM) (9.3 ppb), were present in the finished water (Continental 1999a; 1999b). BDCM, bromoform, bromomethane, and CDBM are not chemicals associated with the routine operations at LCAAP. These chemicals are common by-products of chlorination. Chlorine is added to drinking water to kill disease-causing organisms (ATSDR 1989, 1990, 1992).
TCE and other VOCs have been detected in several of the plant's 13 drinking water supply wells prior to being processed by air strippers. During 1998-1999, TCE (34 ppb) was detected in supply well 17-AA (located within Area 12) above its CV. One sample at supply well 17-K (Area 22) and three samples at supply well 17-P (Area 14) contained vinyl chloride (8 ppb) above its CV. One sample collected in November 1998, at supply well 17-JJ (located near the center of the plant), contained tetrachloroethylene (PCE) (1.7 ppb), slightly above its CV (Dames & Moore 1999; Dames & Moore 2000).
Results of samples collected from 1990 to 1997 indicate that three of the 13 active water supply wells (17-AA, 17-K, and 17-P) contained levels of contaminants above CVs. TCE (52 ppb) was detected above its CV in well 17-AA and the levels appeared to be relatively stable from 1990 through 1997. Water from this supply well was not drawn from extensively in the past because of its high mineral content (F.J. Abshier, Olin Corporation, Winchester Division, personal communication, October 26, 1999). Vinyl chloride (8 ppb) was detected above its CV in wells 17-K and 17-P. Vinyl chloride was detected only once in well 17-K (Dames & Moore 1999). One supply well (17-FF) was converted to a water extraction and recovery well in 1998 and is currently being used to remove VOCs. Samples collected from this well, prior to its conversion, contained 1,2-dichloroethylene (1,2-DCE) (380 ppb) and vinyl chloride (270 ppb) (Dames & Moore 1999).
LCAAP routinely samples and analyzes groundwater from about 150 monitoring wells across the plant. However, as many as 222 wells (including production wells and off-site wells) have been sampled as part of past environmental investigations (EA Engineering 1994). VOCs, SVOCs, explosives, metals, and some radionuclides were detected in groundwater in several areas of the plant. Some VOCs were detected in groundwater at levels above CVs. Groundwater sampling in the Northeast Corner OU (Areas 16 and 17) and in the Area 18 OU have identified VOC plumes that extend to the northern perimeter of the plant. The nature and extent of contamination beyond the northern plant boundary has not been fully characterized and it is possible that some groundwater contamination has migrated off site. Other VOC plumes have been identified in areas near the west and northwest portion of the plant, in Areas 7 and 12, and in Area 8 in the southwestern portion of the plant, which are part of the Installation-Wide OU. Sampling results reported in 1994 identified 1,2-DCE as the most common chlorinated compound detected in the groundwater at LCAAP (EA Engineering 1992).
At the Northeast Corner OU, 1,2-DCE was detected at concentrations as high as 300,000 ppb in the immediate vicinity of the solvent pits and as high as 1,000 ppb within 400 feet downgradient of the solvent pits. Two VOCs, TCE (87 ppb) and PCE (8.1 ppb), and two metals, lead (26 ppb) and cadmium (21 ppb), were detected above their CVs in the HU2 aquifer in the Northeast Corner OU (EA Engineering 1995a, 1998a).
Samples collected from the Area 18 OU monitoring wells contained several VOCs, vinyl chloride (8,000 ppb), 1,2-DCE (4,000 ppb), TCE (68 ppb), benzene (42 ppb), 1,1-dichloro- ethylene (1,1-DCE) (35 ppb), and PCE (8.1 ppb), that exceeded their CVs. The highest VOC concentrations were found in the intermediate and deep monitoring well samples (50 - 90 feet deep) of HU2. In three of the shallow monitoring wells in HU2 (upper 30 feet), four VOCs, carbon tetrachloride (44 ppb), vinyl chloride (20 ppb), 1,1-DCE (15 ppb), and chloroform (8.8 ppb), were detected at levels above their CVs. Two metals, manganese (2,740 ppb) and arsenic (16.8 ppb), were also detected above their CVs (EA Engineering 1995b, 1998b).
Samples collected from the Installation-Wide OU monitoring wells contained VOCs and other contaminants, including metals, explosives, and some radiological activity. In Area 8, 1,2-DCE (93 ppb) and TCE (15 ppb) were detected above their CVs. Lead was detected above its CV at many sampling locations and the maximum concentration (4,900 ppb) was found in a shallow well in Area 2. This is likely due to the proximity of the well to an inactive wastewater treatment lagoon where high levels of lead in soil were detected. Cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (royal demolition explosive) (RDX) (1,200 ppb) and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (high melting explosive) (3,600 ppb) were the most prevalent explosives detected within the Installation-Wide OU above their CVs. Both alpha and beta radioactivity were detected above their CVs in Area 10 OU (firing range waste dump). The area is currently undergoing cleanup activities for depleted uranium which is being overseen by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USACHPPM 1998).
Off-Site Groundwater Contamination
LCAAP has installed eight off-site monitoring wells. The VOC plume associated with the Northeast Corner OU (Areas 16 and 17) has reached off-site monitoring wells to the north. These wells are connected to air strippers that remove VOCs. Three groundwater extraction wells located in the Area 18 OU pump water to an air stripper and help prevent VOCs from migrating beyond the plant perimeter. Removing the groundwater creates a cone of depression underneath the plant and prevents most off-site migration (F.J. Abshier, Olin Corporation, Winchester Division, personal communication, October 26, 1999). The water is subsequently treated in the Area 18 OU pump and treat system prior to being discharged to the Little Blue Valley Sewer District (USACHPPM 1998; W. Hills , Division of Environmental Quality, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, personal communications, October 18, 1999).
Twelve residential wells were sampled by LCAAP as part of a quarterly monitoring program conducted from July 1988 through September 1993 (EA Engineering 1995b). Low levels of VOCs and explosives were occasionally detected during this monitoring period. In November 1989, 1,1-DCE (2 ppb), benzene (1.1 ppb), and TCE (3.1 ppb) were detected at levels slightly above their CVs; in January 1992, chloromethane (7.8 ppb) was detected in one well slightly above its CV; in December 1992, TCE (6.4 ppb) was detected above its CV in one well; in March 1993, two samples exceeded state and federal safe drinking water standards of 5 ppb (SDWS) for cadmium (8.9 ppb); and in September 1993, one sample slightly exceeded SDWS of 15 ppb for lead (15.9 ppb) (USACHPPM 1998; EA Engineering 1995b; Flatwater Group 2001). The source of the cadmium and lead in off site private wells is not known, however, cadmium (15 ppb) has been detected in monitoring wells (MW 99-5 and MW 99-6) near the northern boundary and lead and cadmium have been detected in soil at LCAAP; (EA Engineering 1994; Dames and Moore, 2000). In March 1998, six residential wells were sampled by the Missouri Department of Health. The results of these tests did not show any contaminants exceeding CVs (MDOH 1998).
Results of drinking water quality monitoring tests conducted in 1998 for the city of Independence water department and in 1999 for Kansas City Water Services Athierton water treatment plant did not identify any compounds that exceeded SDWS. These are the two primary drinking water suppliers for the areas around LCAAP. All municipal water departments in Jackson County routinely test their water supplies to ensure that they are in compliance with state and federal requirements (City of Independence Water Department 1998; Kansas City Water Services 1999).
Evaluation of Potential Public Health Hazards
Past Exposure
On-site - It is possible that prior to air strippers being installed at the plant, individuals may have consumed water from supply wells that contained levels of VOCs above ATSDR's health-based CVs. Past water sampling data have detected VOCs in excess of CVs in four water supply wells. Vinyl chloride has occasionally been detected at levels slightly above its CV in two supply wells (17-K and 17-P) and TCE has been consistently detected above its CV in one supply well (17-AA). Recovery well 17-FF was used as a supply well prior to 1998 and contained 1,2-DCE and vinyl chloride above their CVs.
When estimating the health significance of an exposure pathway, ATSDR estimates exposure doses and compares the values to standard health guidelines. In calculating human exposure doses, ATSDR made very conservative assumptions about the frequency and duration of exposure. ATSDR also assumed that LCAAP workers and on-site residents would be exposed to the maximum contaminant concentrations detected. These assumptions are often necessary because ATSDR does not know with certainty when contaminants first reached supply wells or how much contamination was present at the time water was being consumed from these wells. These assumptions likely overestimate actual exposure because workers are not likely to obtain most of their drinking water from LCAAP and the small number of individuals who have lived in the on-site housing area generally only reside there for a short period of time. Moreover, individuals at LCAAP are not likely to be exposed to these maximum concentrations because water from all supply wells is blended and stored in a large holding tank. The methods and assumptions used to estimate exposures and evaluate potential health effects are described in greater detail in Appendix C.
Since no individual well at LCAAP ever supplies all the drinking water for LCAAP and no one person drinks exclusively from one supply well at the maximum contaminant concentration, ATSDR concluded that past exposure to the LCAAP drinking water supply poses no public health hazard.
Off-site - Results of off-site groundwater monitoring tests and residential private well monitoring indicate that some VOCs, explosives, and metals, mostly at low levels, have migrated beyond the plant's perimeter in the north central portion of the plant, which includes the Area 18 OU and the Northeast Corner OU. A few contaminants, benzene, TCE, and 1,1-DCE, were detected at levels slightly above their CVs.
ATSDR evaluated exposures to private well water by off-site residents using the same conservative approach described above (see Appendix C). Based on this evaluation, ATSDR concluded that drinking water from these private wells does not pose a past health hazard because contaminant concentrations are too low to cause adverse health effects.
Current and Future Exposures
On-site - A system is in place to remove VOCs from the groundwater underneath the plant. LCAAP is a state permitted public drinking water supply and testing of treated water in conjunction with that permit is conducted on a monthly basis for VOCs and some metals. Although untreated groundwater in some areas underneath LCAAP has exceeded safe drinking water standards, recent water monitoring results of the treated drinking water supply have met all state and federal drinking water standards. As long as LCAAPs drinking water treatment and monitoring program is in place, exposures to on-site drinking water from the supply wells at LCAAP pose no current or future public health hazards.
Off-site - Although low levels of some VOCs, explosives, and metals have been detected in private wells to the north of the Area 18 OU and the Northeast Corner OU between, these contaminants were mostly detected at levels below CVs. In 1992 eight groundwater monitoring wells were installed just off site to the north of the Area 18 and the Northeast Corner OU. According to data presented in the Annual Reports for LCAAP Comprehensive Groundwater Monitoring Program, these monitoring wells have not contained levels of VOCs that exceed EPA's maximum contaminant levels (Dames and Moore 2000). A permeable reactive wall (PRW) has been constructed in Area 16, which is designed to prevent further contamination of areas downgradient of the groundwater plume (G. Anderson, IRP Project Manager, LCAAP, personal communication, February 8, 2001). It is expected that the PRW and the groundwater extraction well, installed in 1998, at the northern boundary of the plant will prevent future off-site migration of contaminated plumes beneath LCAAP. Based on this information, it is unlikely that drinking water from these private wells will pose current or future public health hazards.
Evaluation of the Soil Exposure Pathway
Conclusion
Soil at LCAAP does not pose a past, current, or future public health hazard. Surface soil contamination, including VOCs, explosives, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and metals, has been detected above ATSDR's health-based CVs in some areas of LCAAP. Access to most of these areas is restricted and any exposures by visitors or trespassers would likely be infrequent and of very short duration. LCAAP is in the process of out leasing part of the plant and, as a result, land use may change in the future. Surface soil contamination is being addressed by LCAAP through various interim remedial activities at each of the three OUs. These remedial activities should significantly reduce or eliminate the potential for harmful exposures to contaminants in the future. According to LCAAP representatives, any proposed new land use at the Plant must be reviewed by LCAAP and the Operations Support Command. Any reuse of land must meet existing legal agreements and conditions, including land use restrictions and institutional controls in place at the time of the agreement. In addition, state (MNDNR) and federal (EPA) regulatory agencies are responsible for making sure that contaminated areas meet the applicable clean-up standards for the proposed land use. The potential for exposures from surface and subsurface soil contamination should be reevaluated if out leasing at LCAAP ever results in unrestricted use of contaminated source areas.
Discussion
Surface and subsurface soil samples were collected from most of the designated areas of concern on site. The primary soil contaminants, some of which exceed CVs for soil, are VOCs (e.g., TCE, PCE, vinyl chloride, and toluene), SVOCs, explosives (RDX is the most common explosive compound detected), and metals (e.g., arsenic, lead, and chromium). The nature and extent of soil contamination detected in each OU and corrective measures taken by LCAAP are summarized in the discussion that follows and in Table 2.
Nature and Extent of Soil Contamination
The Northeast Corner OU (Areas 11, 16, and 17) has a heavily contaminated oil and solvents pit; a 17-acre abandoned landfill; an area that received waste glass, paints, and solvents; and a contaminated burning ground. VOCs, SVOCs, metals, and explosives have been detected in both surface and subsurface soil, some above CVs. Most of the contaminants exceeding their CVs were found at the oil and solvents pit in Area 17. VOCs detected above CVs include TCE (2,000 ppm), PCE (420 ppm), 1,1,2-trichloroethane (62 ppm), and vinyl chloride (50 ppm). PAHs detected above CVs include benzo(a)pyrene (2,000 ppm), benzo(a)anthracene (3,000 ppm), benzo(b)fluoranthene (5,000 ppm), and benzo(k)fluoranthene (7,000 ppm). One metal, arsenic (50 ppm), was detected above its CV (EA Engineering 1998c).
A ROD for Interim Remedial Action at the Northeast Corner OU addresses the primary source of soil contamination, the oil and solvents pits, located in Areas 16 and 17. The remedial action to be implemented involves installing a 24-inch thick vegetated soil cover over the Area 17B oil and solvent pits to minimize migration of contaminants to nearby soils. Institutional controls will also be implemented, including: 1) restriction of on-site worker's access to contaminated soil; 2) filing a notice to the deed detailing the restrictions of the continuing order to restrict on-site workers; and 3) a covenant to the deed in the event of a transfer of property (EA Engineering 1998a).
The Area 18 OU covers approximately 88 acres along the northern portion of the plant and consists of earth pits used for disposal. VOCs detected above CVs include PCE (9,000 ppm) and TCE (1,000 ppm). The only metal detected above its CV was lead (1,600 ppm). The final ROD for remedial action at the Area 18 OU requires excavating and disposing of surface soils containing lead above cleanup levels (1,000 ppm) as long as the soil does not contain VOCs exceeding 10 ppb. The selected alternative in the ROD provided for on-site remediation of Surface soils containing both lead and VOCs exceeding 10 ppb with multi-phase vapor extraction (MPVE) beneath a two-foot soil cover (EA Engineering 1998b). However, based on data collected subsequent to the release of the Area 18 ROD, VOC contamination may be more widespread than previously expected. LCAAP has proposed revising the Area 18 ROD because the MPVE system may not be effective in addressing contamination in this area. LCAAP and regulators are considering the most appropriate corrective actions to be taken.
The Installation-Wide OU (consisting of 31 source areas) has a number of areas with surface and subsurface soil contamination. No VOCs were detected above CVs in surface soil. PAHs were detected in surface soils in Areas 22, 26, and 31. Total PAHs were detected in two surface soil samples in Area 31 above 15,000 ppm. The metals detected above CVs in surface soil at LCAAP include antimony (1,120 ppm, source: Area 13), lead (110,000 ppm, source: Area 2), copper (140,000 ppm, source: Area 7), and zinc (200,000 ppm, source: Area 7). VOCs were primarily detected in subsurface soil in Areas 3, 7, 14, and 30, including toluene, ethylbenzene, PCE, TCE, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane. However, only PCE (37 ppm) was detected in Area 7 above its CV (EA Engineering 1994). Explosives were also detected in soil, primarily subsurface soil, but none were above CVs (EA Engineering 1992).
Evaluation of Potential Public Health Hazards
Past Exposure
LCAAP is gated and access has always been restricted to the public. Most areas of contamination are located in isolated sections of the plant not frequently accessed by individuals on site. The housing area at the plant is on a hill surrounded by vegetation and is not in close proximity to any areas of contamination. There is an inner fence that separates the housing area from the explosives area. Children living in the housing area are restricted from going onto the plant. There have been occasional violations of these rules in the past by children living in housing on site, however, plant security have strictly enforced these rules. Access to the industrial areas of LCAAP is restricted by the inner fence and children would not ever have access to this area without being accompanied by an adult. For these reasons, exposure to contaminated soil did not pose a past public health hazard.
Current and Future Exposures
Soil remediation efforts at LCAAP include a proposed a plan for interim remedial action for the Installation-wide OU which was released for public comment during the winter 2001 (LCAAP 2001). A final ROD for remedial action at the Area 18 OU and a ROD for interim remedial action at the Northeast Corner OU have been released. Soil remediation of waste pits and other areas of contamination will reduce the likelihood of any current or future exposures to individuals on site at LCAAP. Additional data collection and site evaluation may be required for some of the 31 designated areas within the Installation-wide OU to better characterize the nature and extent of contamination. LCAAP will not pose current or future health hazards to the public as long as access to the plant continues to be restricted and future land uses do not allow development of contaminated areas until they meet all state and federal cleanup guidelines.
Evaluation of Surface Water/Sediment Exposure Pathway
Conclusion
Surface water and sediment at LCAAP do not pose a past, current, or future public health hazard. Contaminant levels were generally below CVs for surface water and sediment samples across LCAAP. A few contaminants were detected in close proximity to source areas above CVs. However, most water-related recreational activities on site take place on or near Veteran's Lake which is not very close to any areas of contamination.
Discussion
Surface Water Use
LCAAP is located on a surface water divide. Surface water drainage originating from the western portion of the plant flows northwest toward West Fire Prairie Creek and eventually Little Blue River, less than 1 mile away. Drainage originating from the eastern portion of the plant flows northeast toward East Fire Prairie Creek and eventually into the Missouri River, approximately 5 miles away (EA Engineering 1994). There are four locations occupying a total of 5.58 acres at LCAAP that have been designated as wetland areas by theU.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Surface water is not used as a source of drinking water for LCAAP or for most of the residential, commercial, and industrial areas located near the plant. The only surface water source of drinking water in the area is from the Missouri River located approximately 8 miles north of LCAAP (R. Maley, Missouri Department of Health, personal communication, October 19, 1999). Veteran's Lake is located in the northeast portion of the plant and is used for recreational activities such as boating and fishing. Swimming is not permitted at Veteran's Lake. There are a number of small ponds scattered across the plant, some of which are used for fishing.
Nature and Extent of Surface Water/Sediment Contamination
Metals, some explosives (e.g., RDX), and a few VOCs were detected above their CVs in some of the surface water and sediment sampled in the areas of contamination. Most of the surface water and sediment samples taken were in close proximity to sources of contamination. VOCs detected in surface water above their CVs include TCE (21 ppb), chloroethane (90 ppb), bromodichloro-methane (5.22 ppb), and dibromochloromethane (3.38 ppb). Since access to the plant is restricted, exposure to sediment is unlikely for individuals located off site. Remedial activities are ongoing at LCAAP, thereby reducing the potential for individuals to be exposed to site-related contaminants in the future.
Veteran's Lake was eliminated from further consideration as a source of contamination in the RI report of the Installation-Wide OU released in 1994 because all compounds detected in surface water were comparable to background levels (EA Engineering 1994). In 1992, 1,2-DCE (27 ppb) and TCE (21 ppb) were detected in a surface water sample taken from Ditch B, in the Area 18 OU. Surface water from Ditch B eventually flows off site to the northeast toward East Fire Prairie Creek. In 1992, surface water and sediment samples were taken from three off-site locations, one of which was downstream of Ditch B. These samples did not contain concentrations of metals, explosives, or VOCs that exceeded CVs (EA Engineering 1994).
Evaluation of Potential Public Health hazards
Past Exposure
Most of the contaminants detected in surface water and sediment across LCAAP were below CVs. On-site surface water is not used as a source of drinking water for LCAAP and any potential exposures to on-site surface water and sediment would have been infrequent and of short duration. Most fishing and recreational activities at LCAAP are limited to Veteran's Lake. The closest area of contamination is over one-half mile to the northwest of this lake and the concentrations found are too low to pose a health hazard. ATSDR concludes that past exposures to surface water and sediment did not pose a public health hazard.
Current and Future Exposures
Since most of the contaminants detected in surface water and sediment were below their CVs and remedial activities are ongoing at LCAAP, it is unlikely that individuals are currently being exposed or will be exposed in the future to site-related contaminants at harmful levels. Some VOCs were found in surface water samples taken from Ditch B in the Area 18 OU. There is the potential for surface water to runoff into East Fire Prairie Creek located northeast of the Area 18 OU; however, it is not likely that contaminant levels would be found at harmful levels. ATSDR concludes that current and future exposures to surface water and sediment do not pose a public health hazard.
Evaluation of Air Exposure Pathway
Conclusion
No public health hazards are associated with past air exposures in and around LCAAP. Because exposure was possible, ATSDR has categorized this site as a"No Apparent Public Health Hazard". No current or future public health hazards are associated with exposure to air contaminants at LCAAP. Exposures to VOCs and other air pollutants may have occurred in the past, however, there are no data to evaluate whether contaminants released into air were present at levels that were harmful. Most VOCs were released near the center of the plant, within the main industrial area, and it is unlikely that ambient air concentrations would have been high enough to pose a health hazard to residents living at the housing area on site or at off-site locations near LCAAP. Open burning/open detonation of explosive materials were conducted prior to 1993. According to LCAAP officials, approximately 300 pounds of explosives materials were burned per week, which was substantially below the permitted amount of 1,440 pounds. LCAAP also minimized potential exposure to air contaminants off site by only conducting burns if certain whether conditions were met. VOC emissions from the sealing operations units are currently being controlled through source reduction measures, and the explosives waste incinerator (EWI) contains an air pollution control system.
Discussion
Nature and Extent of Air Contamination
The principle sources of air emissions at LCAAP are the sealing operations units and the EWI (USACHPPM 1998). In addition, annual burning permits were previously issued to LCAAP for open burning of wet pyrotechnics and propellant powder, open detonation of explosives, and explosives demonstrations and testing. These operations ceased in April 1993 when the last open burning permit expired.
Historically, the sealing operations units, located in the central industrial area, have released some VOCs and other ozone depleting chemicals (e.g., ethyl acetate, methyl chloroform, ethyl alcohol, methyl ethylketone, and toluene). Several provisions to reduce ozone depleting chemicals and VOC emissions have been implemented at LCAAP. For example, water-based paint has been substituted for lacquer-based paint and biofilters have recently been installed to reduce VOC emissions at the plant (USACHPPM 1998; P. Anthamattenn, LCAAP, Personal correspondence, March 1, 2001).
LCAAP operated the burning ground area for the open burning/open detonation of waste explosives, mixes, and powders. Burning activities, which took place from the middle 1950's until April 1993, were generally conducted once a week as long as specific weather conditions were met. According to LCAAP officials, the weather conditions required for open burning were mostly clear skies, winds less than 10 knots, and temperatures greater than 35 degrees. Open burning only took place between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm (P. Anthamatten, LCAAP, Personal coorrespondence, March 22, 2001).
Based on historical information, approximately 300 pounds of materials per week were burned at LCAAP. The most common materials burned were propellant and wet explosive scrap (e.g., calcium resinate, magnesium, barium peroxide, polyvinyl chloride, and propellant powder). The permitted burn rate for these wastes could not exceed 240 pounds per day, every day for a maximum of 1,440 pounds per week. Based on historical information, LCAAP was well under the permitted rates averaging about 60 pounds per day (P. Anthamattenn, LCAAP, Personal correspondence, March 1, 2001).
The EWI is located near the center of the plant in Area 7. The incinerator contains an air pollution control system which removes particulate and hazardous organic waste constituents from exhaust gases and collects small particles in the baghouse. Cleaned exhaust is discharged into the atmosphere through a 30-foot exhaust stack (USACHPPM 1998; U.S. Army Environmental Hygiene Agency 1991). The stack is monitored routinely for carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide.
Evaluation of Potential Public Health Hazards
Past Exposure
Some past activities at LCAAP may have resulted in the release of air contaminants near the source. Since air monitoring data from past operations at LCAAP are not available, ATSDR cannot determine whether exposures to levels of air contaminants above ATSDR's CVs occurred in the past. Most VOCs were released near the center of the plant, within the main industrial area, and it is unlikely that ambient air concentrations would have been high enough to pose a health hazard to residents living at the housing area on site or at off-site locations near LCAAP. According to correspondence from LCAAP officials, no unusual open burn/open detonation events or incidents took place and ATSDR is not aware of any complaints from residents living near LCAAP during the time period that open burning/open detonation occurred. For these reasons, ATSDR concludes that air contaminants in and around LCAAP pose no public health hazard for past exposures.
Current and Future Exposures
Current and future exposures to harmful levels of air contaminants are not expected because activities such as burning of explosives have been discontinued and sealing operations have been modified to reduce contaminant emissions. The EWI is not a significant source of air pollution at the plant because of its air pollution control system.
In order to identify the concerns of local residents, community interviews were conducted by representatives of the United States Army Environmental Center, LCAAP, and Plexus Scientific Corporation in June 1995. Interviews were conducted with citizens living near the plant, as well as community business and political leaders (Plexus Scientific Corp. 1996). The following health concern was expressed by residents:
Environmental investigations have identified areas of groundwater contamination at LCAAP. Most of the groundwater plumes are contained on site and are not expected to migrate beyond the plant's boundary. The Area 18 OU in the north central part of the plant and the Northeast Corner OU contain groundwater plumes that may extend beyond the plant perimeter. Some private wells to the north of LCAAP have been monitored. A couple of the wells sampled did contain levels of contaminants that were slightly above ATSDR's health-based CVs (See Evaluation of Groundwater Pathway Section and Appendix C). However, the samples collected did not contain harmful levels of contaminants and the water does not pose a public health hazard.
As stated previously, some past activities at LCAAP may have resulted in the release of air contaminants near the source. However, according to LCAAP officials, these releases have not exceeded amounts permitted by the state of Missouri. Additionally, most air contaminant releases at LCAAP are from the industrial area located near the center of the plant. Any pollutants migrating off site would be diluted and would not be expected to cause allergies or pose a health hazard.
ATSDR recognizes that infants and children may be more sensitive than adults to environmental exposure in communities faced with contamination of their water, soil, air, or food. This sensitivity is a result of the following factors: (1) children are more likely to be exposed to certain media like soil when they play outdoors; (2) children are shorter and therefore may be more likely to breathe dust, soil, and vapors close to the ground; and (3) children are smaller than adults and therefore may receive a higher dose of chemical exposure relative to their body weight. Children also can sustain permanent damage if exposed to toxic substances during critical growth stages. ATSDR is committed to evaluating children's special interests at sites such as LCAAP as part of its Child Health Initiative. ATSDR identified no situations in which children are likely to be exposed to harmful levels of chemical contaminants associated with LCAAP.
ATSDR evaluated the likelihood that children living at or near LCAAP may have been or may be exposed to contaminants at levels of health concern. The number of children living at the LCAAP housing area is very small. The exact number is quite variable, but currently there are 23 children under the age of 18 living at the LCAAP housing area. ATSDR determined that harmful exposures are unlikely to occur because children living at this housing area do not have access to the main plant where areas of contamination are located. There are no day care centers or schools located on site and none are expected in the future. According to LCAAP officials, the housing area has been connected to the city of Independence water supply for approximately 4 years (G. Kelso, Environmental Engineer, LCAAP, personal communication, June 29, 1999). The primary recreational area at LCAAP, Veteran's Lake, is located at least one-half mile from any areas of contamination and it is unlikely that children who visit this recreational area would be exposed to harmful levels of contaminants. ATSDR did not identify any situations at LCAAP where children were likely to have been exposed to contaminants at levels which pose a health concern.
After evaluating available environmental information, ATSDR has drawn the following conclusions regarding media- and site-specific exposures:
The public health action plan (PHAP) for LCAAP contains a description of actions to be taken by ATSDR and/or other government agencies at and in the vicinity of the site upon completion of this public health assessment. The purpose of the PHAP is to ensure that this public health assessment not only identifies public health hazards, but provides a plan of action designed to mitigate and prevent adverse human health effects resulting from exposure to hazardous substances in the environment. The plan includes a commitment on the part of ATSDR to follow up and ensure that the plan is implemented. The public health actions completed and those to be implemented are as follows:
Actions Completed
Actions Ongoing or Planned
Recommendations
Jeffrey Kellam
Environmental Health Scientist
Federal Facilities Assessment Branch
Division of Health Assessment and Consultation
Gary Campbell, Ph.D.
Environmental Health Scientist
Federal Facilities Assessment Branch
Division of Health Assessment and Consultation
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). 1989. Toxicological Profile for Bromodichloromethane. December 1989.
ATSDR. 1990. Toxicological Profile for Bromoform/Chlorodibromomethane. December 1990.
ATSDR. 1992. Toxicological Profile for Bromomethane. September 1992.
Burns and McDonnell Engineers. 1999. Draft Installation-Wide Supplemental Field Investigation at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, Independence, Missouri. April 1999.
City of Independence Water Department. 1998. 1998 Water Quality Chart Annual Report. 1998.
Continental Analytical Services, Inc. (Continental). 1999a. LCAAP Drinking Water Supply Quarterly Testing Comparison Report. February 1999.
Continental. 1999b. LCAAP Drinking Water Supply Annual Testing Comparison Report. May 1999.
Dames & Moore. 1999. Final 1998 Annual Report For LCAAP Comprehensive Groundwater Monitoring Program. August 1999.
Dames & Moore. 2000. Final 1999 Annual Report For LCAAP Comprehensive Groundwater Monitoring Program. August 2000.
EA Engineering, Science and, Technology, Inc. (EA Engineering) 1989. U.S. Army Toxic and Hazardous Materials Agency (USATHAMA) Final Report: LCAAP Preliminary Assessment/Site Investigation. January 1989.
EA Engineering. 1992. Data Summary for the Area 8 OU, LCAAP. April 1992.
EA Engineering. 1994. Draft-Final Remedial Investigation Report of the Installation-Wide Operable Unit at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, Independence, Missouri. Volume 1, Part I: Text. February 1994.
EA Engineering. 1995a. Remedial Investigation Report of the Northeast Corner Operable Unit at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant. March 1995.
EA Engineering. 1995b. Remedial Investigation Report of the Area 18 Operable Unit at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant. January 1995.
EA Engineering. 1998a. Final Record of Decision for Interim Remedial Action at the Northeast Corner Operable Unit at Lake City Ammunition Plant (LCAAP), Independence, Missouri. September 1998.
EA Engineering. 1998b. Final Record of Decision for Interim Remedial Action at the Area 18 Operable Unit at Lake City Ammunition Plant (LCAAP), Independence, Missouri. February 1998.
EA Engineering. 1998c. Draft Final Feasibility Study Report for the Northeast Corner Operable Unit at Lake City Ammunition Plant (LCAAP), Independence, Missouri. November 1998.
Flatwater Group. 2001. Database for off-site private well quarterly monitoring program conducted from 1987 through 1993. Data provided to ERG March 2001.
Kansas City Water Services. 1999. Water Services Laboratory Monthly Analysis of Athierton Well Water 1999. October 1999.
Lake City Army Ammunition Plant. 2001. Draft Proposed Plan for Interim Action Installation-Wide Operable Unit. February 2001.
Missouri Department Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Quality. 1999. Inventory of Missouri Public Water Systems 1999. January 1999.
Missouri Department of Health. 1998. Water Analysis Report for samples collected on March 2, 1998.
Plexus Scientific Corp. 1996. Community Relations Plan (Final). December 1996.
U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine. 1998. Environmental Baseline Survey NO. 38-EH-8711-99 Lake City Army Ammunition Plant Independence, Missouri. October 1998.
U.S. Army Environmental Hygiene Agency. 1991. Air Pollution Assessment No. 42-21-0475-91: Trial Burn for Deactivation Furnace Building 97, Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP). February 19 through March 6, 1991.
U.S. Army Toxic and Hazardous materials Agency (USATHAMA), Environmental Assessment and Information Sciences Division. 1990. Installation Restoration Program: Conceptual Program Plan For Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (Final Report). December 1990.
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