EPA Completes Cleanup of Illinois Auto Salvage Yard

EPA’s Region 5 has reported that it has completed the emergency cleanup of hazardous waste at the Cadie Auto Salvage in Belvidere, Ill. The facility was used as an auto hauling and salvage yard until it closed in 2007. The cleanup, performed by EPA contactors, included removing about 250 compressed gas cylinders and 60 drums and other containers.

In a statement, the EPA notes that more than 90 different known or suspected chemicals were transported to facilities specializing in hazardous waste disposal. Other contaminants found at the site included waste oil and about 760 gallons of flammable liquids. Additionally, contaminated soil was excavated and transported for disposal.

The cylinders were originally owned by Environmental Technical Services Corp., formerly located in Belvidere. ETSC closed in 2003, when it’s believed the containers were transported to the site.

Although the drums and containers have been removed, some environmental issues remain. The site is near residential homes and a school. Tests of local wells did not show any contamination of drinking water.

EPA spent approximately $320,000 on the cleanup, which it will try to recover from the potentially responsible businesses.