News
Saranac River Toxin Clean Up
Learn More at March 9 Meeting
From 1896 to 1944 gas was manufactured at a plant on Saranac St. The legacy of this industry was a stew of toxic chemicals that have contaminated soils and leached into the Saranac River. Various clean up efforts have been on-going since 1976 and the next stage is set to begin. A public meeting will be held on March 9th to provide information about proposed activities to address contamination of the Saranac River. Clean up actions include removal and off-site disposal of coal tar contaminated sediment from the Saranac River bed, and restoration of the river bed and river banks.
The river phase of the clean up effort is expected to take three years. Before the work begins, the river bottom will be digitally mapped so that it can be restored to its original state including replacing boulders and deep pools that provide fish resting and hiding spots. Work within the river will be restricted to May through September to reduce impacts on fish populations during spring and fall spawning runs. Dams constructed above and below the work site and a temporary canal will redirect the river flow while contaminated sediment between the dams is removed. A portage will be installed for paddlers moving up and down the river. The project requires that the river be returned to its original condition before work ends for the season. Areas below the work site will be assessed to determine how much coal tar has made its way downstream and what remedies are necessary. Clean up activities will be performed by a contractor hired by New York State Electric and Gas Corporation (NYSEG) and overseen by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). An information session about the clean up will be held on March 9th as part of Trout Unlimited’s monthly meeting. Drop in to ask questions and discuss the upcoming project.
When and Where
Tuesday, March 9, 2010, 7:00 PM
Trout Unlimited Monthly Meeting
Gander Mountain Room, Gander Mt. Store
Champlain Centre Mall
60 Smithfield Boulevard Plattsburgh, NY
For More Information
Comments and questions on the Saranac River Cleanup Project can be directed to NYSDEC Project Manager:
Lech Dolata
625 Broadway, 11th Floor
Albany, NY 12233-7014
518-402-9662
lxdolata@gw.dec.state.ny.us
For site-related health questions contact NYSDOH Project Manager:
Wendy Kuehner
800-458-1158, ext. 27870
Wsk01@health.state.ny.us
February 26, 2010
