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NPL Site Narrative for Taputimu Farm
TAPUTIMU FARM
Island of Tutuila, American Samoa
Federal Register Notice: September 8, 1983Conditions at proposal (October 23, 1981): The Taputimu Farm Site is on the Island of Tutuila, Trust Territory of American Samoa. The site, part of an experimental farm owned by the Territory, consists of three rooms of a farm warehouse and a trailer that have been used in excess of 10 years for storage of unused and out-of-date agricultural chemicals and pesticides. Approximately 4,000 pounds of hazardous wastes are on-site. The chemical storage areas are a short distance from a public beach area, and a primary concern is that these materials could be transported by flood water to the beach 0.3 mile away. Direct human contact and contamination of drinking water and marine resources used for food are of concern.
This is the top priority site in American Samoa.
Status (September 8, 1983): In 1982, EPA conducted a remedial investigation/feasibility study (RI/FS) to determine the type and extent of contamination at the site and identify alternatives for remedial action. The materials were found to be improperly stored within the buildings. Analysis of the materials identified several pesticides and chlorinated organic solvents. The materials were stored on a concrete or steel floor of the storage areas and trailer. Soil sampling and visual examination of the site confirmed that contamination was confined to the interior floors.
Status (March 7, 1986): In 1984 EPA implemented the remedial action alternative selected. EPA repacked the chemical/pesticide materials for shipping to the continental United States for disposal in a facility permitted under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. The remedial action also included washing down all exposed surfaces of the storage areas with bleach to ensure deactivation of any residual materials not picked up by sweeping and vacuuming. Finally, two layers of epoxy paint were applied to the interior walls and 3 inches of concrete were poured over the existing floor, thereby eliminating the threat of direct contact. The Government of American Samoa uses the structure only to store farm equipment and has placed signs on the building prohibiting food storage. Since all materials were removed and contaminated surfaces cleaned and sealed, no further monitoring was conducted.
This site is being deleted from the NPL because EPA, in consultation with the Government of American Samoa, has determined that all appropriate Superfund-financed response under CERCLA has been implemented, and that no further response by responsible parties is appropriate.
For more information about the hazardous substances identified in this narrative summary, including general information regarding the effects of exposure to these substances on human health, please see the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) ToxFAQs. ATSDR ToxFAQs can be found on the Internet at http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html or by telephone at 1-888-42-ATSDR or 1-888-422-8737.