DEC Community Update following Discovery of Encased Drums During Ongoing Cleanup at Bethpage Community Park
Most Recent Fact Sheet: Bethpage Community Park - April 2024 Community Update (PDF)
DEC Update on Recent Discovery of Underground Drums at Bethpage Community Park
Ongoing Cleanup of Historical Contamination is Priority for New York State
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) continues to strictly oversee the cleanup of the Bethpage Community Park in the town of Oyster Bay and is working to protect public health and the environment as part of the State’s comprehensive investigation, containment, and cleanup of the Navy-Grumman groundwater plume. In response to the recent discovery of six, 55-gallon drums beneath the former ballfield area of Bethpage Community Park (the former Grumman Settling Ponds), DEC is working with State, federal, and local partners to ensure actions are taken to safely assess the contents of the containers for disposal and to develop a plan to remove the structures and contents of the drums.
DEC is holding daily coordination calls with Northrop Grumman, New York State Department of Health (DOH), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the town of Oyster Bay to provide updates on work underway, efforts completed, and next steps.
DEC continues to oversee Grumman’s cleanup activities at this location, including use of geophysical techniques, such as ground-penetrating radar, as well as subsurface drilling and sampling to determine the full nature and extent of contamination and the presence of any additional drums buried deep beneath the site. The town of Oyster Bay will remove dense brush and debris in a small area of the former ballfield prior to the second round of ground penetrating radar testing.
To date, lab results for samples collected from the six drums are consistent with initial analysis of the drums’ contents, which found chlorinated solvents and waste oil / petroleum consistent with contamination historically found related to the former settling ponds and the industrial operations of Grumman at this site. DEC is directing Northrop Grumman to submit a Health and Safety Plan and a Work Plan for completing the drum removal. The Work Plan, which will be reviewed by DEC, DOH, EPA, and the town, will detail the secure removal and transport of the drums off-site for proper disposal.
As required, Northrop Grumman is conducting air monitoring in the immediate work area and along the margins of the former ballfield to ensure public health is protected. To date, the air monitoring has found no exceedance of action levels. Air monitoring will continue throughout the removal of the drums from this area.
DEC will provide ongoing and rigorous oversight of Northrop Grumman’s efforts during the inspection and removal of the drums, as well as regular updates to the community as additional information becomes available. In addition, DEC is posting the annual and quarterly reports of groundwater monitoring conducted to ensure the success of the ongoing cleanup of the ballfield and other areas in the park. The Annual and Quarterly reports dating back to 2020 are available below.
As part of the broader cleanup of the Navy-Grumman Groundwater Plume, in cooperation with Northrop Grumman, the U.S. Navy continues with a long-term monitoring program and the Public Water Supply Contingency Plan. Directed by DEC, the U.S. Navy and Northrop Grumman installed wellhead treatment at six local public water supplies. This wellhead treatment allows the water purveyors to provide drinking water that meets the New York State Department of Health drinking water requirements.
DEC continues to hold Northrop Grumman accountable for the cleanup of Bethpage Community Park.
Recent Site History
Prior to the site’s donation to the Town of Oyster Bay in 1962, portions of the present-day Bethpage Community Park were operated by Grumman as a series of settling ponds and sludge drying beds. The historic use as settling ponds/drying beds resulted in both soil and groundwater contamination that is currently being addressed in accordance with a Record of Decision with DEC.
To understand the extent of contamination, DEC used the latest science and engineering analysis to carefully design the cleanup goals to fully protect public health and the environment. Based on the ongoing collection of data, the State’s cleanup plan is providing full protection from contamination and will be effective in addressing sources of contamination once complete.
The Former Grumman Settling Ponds is located immediately east of the former 600-acre Northrop Grumman-Bethpage Facility and Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant Site. Cleanup has been occurring in accordance with the Record of Decision under DEC oversight. Following a successful initial thermal remediation program to address site contamination present in deep soil (approximately 35 to 45 feet beneath the ground surface), Northrop Grumman contractors began a second phase thermal remediation program within and adjacent to the former ballfield area.
This includes the drilling of more than 350 thermal/heating wells. During the drilling of these wells the contractor encountered an obstruction at approximately four feet below ground surface. To inspect this obstruction, Northrop Grumman brought an excavator to the site to remove soil and discovered the concrete vault during the week of March 25, 2024. The careful and methodical excavation work subsequently identified six, 55-gallon steel drums encased in reinforced concrete.
The Northrop Grumman environmental cleanup and response contractor continued to expose and sample the contents of the six drums for disposal purposes and determined the concrete sides extended to a depth of 12 feet below ground surface. Northrop Grumman staff immediately notified DEC and staff at the Town of Oyster Bay Department of Public Works on March 27, 2024.
Field crews documented no signs of leakage from the drums. Soil samples were also collected from stockpiles (soil excavated from around the drums) and the excavation side-walls and sent to the lab for analysis. Laboratory results are expected in early April and will be used to determine the proper disposal of the excavated soil. At the conclusion of activities on Friday, March 29, 2024, the drums were covered with plastic sheeting and sandbags within a cordoned off area already secured by chain link fencing to protect the public and ensure the safe continuation of work to construct the thermal remedy. Northrop Grumman is currently coordinating the drum removal with DEC, DOH, EPA, and the town and work is expected during the week of April 8, 2024.
It is not uncommon for DEC to encounter buried underground storage tanks, intact drums, drum carcasses, drywells, tank lines, etc., when investigating and remediating former industrial sites. This sometimes occurs during active redevelopment or site cleanup, as is the case at the Bethpage Community Park. The former ballfield area is the location where the bulk of the disposal took place while the property was owned by Grumman. Cleanup has occurred in accordance with the Record of Decision under DEC oversight and previous claims of buried drums were taken seriously.
DEC continues to closely oversee Northrop Grumman’s efforts, in coordination with the town of Oyster Bay, DOH, and the EPA.
DEC's Latest Bethpage Community Park Cleanup Updates:
September 5, 2024
DEC is now overseeing Northrop Grumman contractors on the second phase of the cleanup at the former Grumman settling ponds (portions of the present-day Bethpage Community Park), to address volatile organic compound (VOC) contamination deep in the soil. Contractors are using an in-situ, or ‘in place,’ heat-based thermal treatment system to effectively treat the pollution. Learn more about DEC’s efforts to remove pollution from deep soil and prevent further impacts to groundwater in an updated timeline here (PDF).
August 19, 2024
New York State Department of Health Announces Expanded Cancer Evaluation in Bethpage due to Historical Pollution at Former Grumman-Navy Site. NYSDOH will update and expand its 2013 health evaluation that analyzes cancer data of residents living near the former Grumman-Navy site in Bethpage. NYSDOH continues to remind residents that there are no new exposures or risk to public health due to the recent discovery of intact buried drums in the Bethpage Community Park, and that the State will continue to ensure protection of public drinking water and closely oversee the ongoing investigation and cleanup of the park and full containment of the groundwater plume.
This upcoming review is a retrospective observational evaluation, similar to the 2013 report. The expanded evaluation will be completed over the next six months to look at updated data from the New York State Cancer Registry for the original geographic area and expand the area of this analysis in an effort to provide additional information to the public. The updated evaluation will also report on trends in cancer rates in the evaluation area over time. The benefit of the evaluation for the public is knowledge and awareness of the types and rates of cancer diagnosed in the area relative to statistics for other portions of New York State.
It is important to note that like the 2013 report, this update cannot provide a direct causal link between identified cases of cancer and any particular environmental exposure such as the Grumman plume. Read the full NYSDOH press release.
August 2, 2024
In early September, DEC will oversee Northrop Grumman contractors activating the second phase of the cleanup at the former Grumman settling ponds (portions of the present-day Bethpage Community Park), to address volatile organic compound (VOC) contamination deep in the soil. This work will take place in an area separate from where the ongoing drum investigation (see updates below) is taking place.
Contractors will use an in-situ, or ‘in place,’ heat-based thermal treatment system to effectively treat the pollution.
Following a successful initial thermal program to address site contamination present in deep soil (approximately 35 to 45 feet beneath the ground surface) in and adjacent to the former ballfield area, Northrop Grumman contractors began the construction of the second phase thermal remediation program in late 2023. Data from extensive soil sampling drove the scientific analysis, design, and drilling of more than 350 thermal remediation wells.
This proven, safe, science-based cleanup includes inserting metal rods into the ground at approximately 30 to 60 feet below the surface and applying electrical current. The energy created by the electric current heats the soil to temperatures of 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit) to vaporize both the VOCs and water in the soil. Vapors are then safely removed by applying a continuous vacuum suction process that brings them to a specialized treatment system at the surface. The system then fully treats the recovered vapors to remove contaminants before treated air is released. Additionally, this thermal program includes a series of temperature and monitoring points within and along the margins of the treatment area to demonstrate the vacuum is maintained and operating effectively in the treatment area.
In addition and as required, Northrop Grumman is conducting air monitoring in the work area and along the margins of the former ballfield to ensure public health is protected.
July 19, 2024
DEC, Northrop Grumman, and the town of Oyster Bay are making progress on the next phase of subsurface investigation of the former Grumman settling ponds. On July 15, Northrup Grumman contractors started the electromagnetic survey of Bethpage Community Park under DEC oversight. The new surveys follow the completion of two geophysical pilot surveys of the former Grumman settling ponds area on June 21 and June 26 designed to test the geophysical contractor’s equipment, determine the size and shape of anomalies generated by known objects, and to aid in the interpretation of the geophysical data specific to the site.
The full electromagnetic survey should take approximately two weeks to complete. The geophysical survey is being closely coordinated with the town of Oyster Bay to minimize possible impacts to park users, such as parking lot closures.
A report will be submitted along with the design for the final ground penetrating radar survey within two weeks of completion of the electromagnetic survey. It is anticipated that the park-wide geophysical investigation will take most of July and August and a final report submitted in September.
Additionally, the second phase of the cleanup, an in-situ thermal remedy, will begin operation to address volatile organic compounds (VOC) contamination that remains in soil in the area of the former Grumman settling ponds. While this in-situ thermal remedy is being implemented, Northrop Grumman will be designing a cleanup involving excavation and off-site disposal of soil containing PCB and metals contamination present in the former Grumman settling ponds area. This excavation will be performed in accordance with DEC-approved work plans following completion of the in-situ thermal remedy.
DEC also recently released a new episode of its podcast, “DEC Does What?!” spotlighting the important work of DEC experts working to protect New Yorkers and the state’s environment. The latest episode, Digging Deep on the Navy-Grumman Plume, discusses the efforts underway to address this legacy of pollution. Listen to "DEC Does What?!"
June 11, 2024
This week, Northrop Grumman expects to finalize waste characterization reports necessary for the transportation of excavated soil off-site for disposal at licensed facilities. DEC is reviewing a work plan prepared by Northrop Grumman’s contractor as preparations are made to begin a comprehensive geophysical investigation of the former Grumman settling ponds area. The geophysical investigation will include a full re-survey of the ballfield area, as well as the remainder of Bethpage Community Park.
DEC, Northrop Grumman, and the town of Oyster Bay have discussed a pilot test the geophysical contractor will conduct to ensure that new equipment being used will effectively identify any potential additional buried drums not previously discovered. To advance the pilot test last week, Northrop Grumman’s environmental contractor buried two drums (one horizontal, one vertical) and a previously excavated concrete ring eight to 10 feet below ground. During the pilot test, the new geophysical contractor will evaluate their equipment using these buried objects.
In addition, DEC compiled a preliminary data summary for the remaining six concrete-encased drums found at the former Grumman settling ponds area. As with the initial 16 drums, results show that the type and level of contamination in the drums’ contents are consistent with historic contamination at the park, and there is no public exposure to the remaining historic soil and groundwater contamination. Specifically, results from drum samples show various petroleum hydrocarbons (benzene, trimethylbenzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, etc.), various metals such as chromium and cadmium, etc., PCBs, and chlorinated solvents (trichloroethene). These results are similar to and within the range of concentrations of contaminants identified during the remedial investigation and the contaminants detected in the drums are not unexpected, as the drums were found in the former sludge drying beds/former settling pond areas used by Northrop Grumman during its historical operations. A table providing an overview of the preliminary findings for all drums is available (PDF).
May 29, 2024
DEC compiled a preliminary data summary for the initial 16 drums found at the Bethpage Community Park. Results show that the type and level of contamination in the drums’ contents and surrounding soils are consistent with historic contamination at the park, and there is no public exposure to the remaining historic soil and groundwater contamination. Specifically, results from soil and drum samples show various petroleum hydrocarbons (benzene, trimethylbenzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, etc.), various metals such as chromium and cadmium, etc., PCBs, and chlorinated solvents (trichloroethene). These results are similar to and within the range of concentrations of contaminants identified during the remedial investigation and the contaminants detected in the drums are not unexpected, as the drums were found in the former settling pond areas used by Northrop Grumman during its historical operations. A table providing an overview of the preliminary findings for each drum is available here (PDF).
This week, Northrop Grumman will continue to backfill previously-excavated areas and prepare waste characterization reports for transporting the excavated soil off-site for disposal at licensed facilities. Northrop Grumman’s contractor is preparing a work plan to complete a comprehensive geophysical investigation of the park.
May 20, 2024
On Friday, May 17, under DEC oversight, stockpile sampling for waste characterization was conducted at the former Grumman settling ponds present day Bethpage Community Park. Additionally, with photographic documentation now complete, the original 16 drums were shipped offsite in their overpacks for proper disposal. Clean-up work continues into the week of May 20 with continued stockpile sampling. Laboratory sample results are pending for the six drums excavated last week. Earlier soil sampling results and raw geophysical instrument data are currently being evaluated and findings will be released upon completion of analysis.
May 10, 2024
During work this week, Northrup Grumman’s contractors uncovered six additional concrete blocks, similar to those found in the previous area. The blocks are secured onsite and will be further investigated next week. DEC directed Northrup Grumman to use the previously approved work plans for additional ongoing excavation in the area where the new blocks were discovered.
There is no exposure to the public, and onsite air monitoring equipment has shown no detections that present an immediate threat to public health and safety at the site. This remains an active cleanup site, and DEC is working with its partners at the federal, State, and local level to ensure the protection of public health and the environment.
May 8, 2024
Under DEC oversight, Northrop Grumman contractors this week investigated potential anomalies identified using ground-penetrating radar surveys of the ballfield area of the Bethpage Community Park. Careful and methodical excavation work found no additional drums.
Objects uncovered where anomalies were suspected include various pieces of metal and concrete, scrap metal rods, metal flashing, a metal pipe, and a buried stormwater grate. These objects present no immediate threat to public health and safety at the site and DEC is working with its partners at the federal, State, and local level to ensure the protection of public health and the environment.
DEC will continue to provide rigorous oversight of Northrop Grumman’s efforts during this process as well as other ongoing cleanup activities at this location, including subsurface drilling and sampling to determine the full nature and extent of contamination and the potential presence of any additional drums buried beneath the site.
May 6, 2024
DEC is reviewing sampling results received last week from the 16 drums and surrounding soils excavated from Bethpage Community Park and requiring Northrop Grumman to safely and responsibly expedite the proper disposal of the surrounding soil, concrete encasements, drums, and their contents. To date, sampling results show that the type and level of contamination in the drums’ contents and surrounding soils are consistent with historic contamination at the park, and there is no public exposure to the remaining historic soil and groundwater contamination.
Laboratory results and direct inspection of the drums and surrounding soil indicated that none of the 16 drums leaked their contents. The contaminants detected in the soil samples are well within the range of concentrations identified during the ongoing cleanup and investigation in other areas of the park.
Specifically, results from soil and drum samples show various petroleum hydrocarbons (benzene, trimethylbenzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, etc.), various metals such as chromium and cadmium, etc., PCBs, and chlorinated solvents (trichloroethene). This was not unexpected, as the drums were found immediately within the former settling pond areas used by Northrop Grumman during its historical operations and why this area is being cleaned up under a comprehensive remedy for the Former Grumman Settling Ponds. The “blue” discoloring of soil in and around the excavation area was also found during earlier stages of the park investigation and anticipated to be addressed during the ballfield cleanup. These waste materials are prepared for shipping off-site for final disposal. The town requested all drums and dumpsters containing soils remain on-site until the town conducts sampling and a visual inspection of the drums.
In addition, under DEC oversight, Northrop Grumman contractors completed the underground survey of the ballfield area of the park on April 29. The scans confirmed the locations of two potential anomalies, or unknown objects, that are being further investigated this week. Earlier scans identified three potential anomalies in proximity to one another that were determined to be one potential object during the scan on April 29. An additional potential anomaly was also discovered at a second location. Northrop Grumman contractors finalized a work plan based on comments provided by the DEC and the town and exploration of these two anomalies in the ballfield area is underway.
To be clear, ongoing work to address the drums and their contents is not impacting the effective containment of contaminated groundwater on the site. An extensive system of wells continues to prevent contaminants from leaving park boundaries. In fact, regular groundwater sampling at the park property boundary shows a downward trend in contaminant concentrations since this system began operating in 2009. In addition, the Bethpage Community Park investigation and cleanup has no impact on progress of extracting contaminants from the larger, nearby Navy-Grumman plume containment effort.
Bethpage Community Park Groundwater Containment System – A Key Piece to Protecting the Long Island Aquifer
This Groundwater Containment System includes four groundwater extraction wells pumping at approximately 200 gallons per minute. These wells have treated more than 1.3 billion gallons of water since operation began in 2009, and the system has removed more than 2,500 pounds of volatile organic compounds (VOC) contamination since startup. The Bethpage Community Park groundwater containment system:
- Prevents remaining contamination from continued migration off-site.
- By removing the site contaminants as part of the overall cleanup of the site, the system is removing contamination from Bethpage Community Park.
- Protects the Long Island Aquifer System and the downgradient public water supplies.
- Monitoring has shown that a clean front of groundwater is developing downgradient of the site and the system is successfully preventing the continued off-site migration of site contaminants.
Groundwater Monitoring Reports
- 2023 Third Quarter Summary Report (PDF)
- 2023 Second Quarter Summary Report (PDF)
- 2023 First Quarter Summary Report (PDF)
- 2022 Annual Summary Report (PDF)
- 2021 Annual Summary Report (PDF)
- 2020 Annual Summary Report (PDF)
NYSDEC Held Availability Session and Formation of a Community Participation Working Group (CPWG)
Tuesday, March 7, 2023, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Bethpage Community Center, 103 Grumman Road West, Bethpage, NY
A community availability session was held on March 7, 2023 for the public to learn more about the formation of a Community Participation Working Group and how the public can become involved with the cleanup of the Navy Grumman groundwater plume associated with the Northrop Grumman Bethpage Facility and Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (NWIRP) sites and the Former Grumman Settling Ponds (portions of the present-day Bethpage Community Park) associated with the former Northrop Grumman Bethpage Facility located in the town of Oyster Bay in Bethpage, New York. Experts from DEC, DOH, United States Geological Survey, Department of Navy, and Northrop Grumman were available for community members to interact with in a one-on-one format. Multiple stations were set up in the Community Center with representatives available at stations detailing specific areas of interest. NYSDEC released a Community Update on February 22, 2023 (PDF, 5 Pages, 4.8 MB) announcing the March 7, 2023 Availability Session and the formation of a Community Participation Working Group. Posters from the Availability Session can be found at the following links:
- NYSDEC Posters (PDF, 9 Pages, 12.2 MB)
- U.S. Navy Posters (PDF, 4 Pages, 6.4 MB)
- Northrop Grumman Posters (PDF,12 Pages, 3.7 MB)
Watch a video of progress and environmental cleanup work underway at the Bethpage Community Park on DEC's YouTube channel.
Community Participation Working Group (CPWG)
As part of the legal settlement between DEC and Northrop Grumman, a Community Participation Work Group (CPWG) is being formed to serve as a community liaison with DEC, Northrop Grumman, the US Navy, and other stakeholders to help ensure information is shared with the community in a timely manner. The Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume CPWG is a voluntary, self-governing body - its role will include, but not be limited to, providing a forum for enhancing dialogue, fostering public understanding and encouraging discussion about the cleanup of the Navy Grumman groundwater plume, establishing a schedule, and making recommendations on outreach and public participation. Updates will be provided about current and upcoming cleanup efforts during CPWG meetings. Consensus Building Institute (CBI) was selected to establish the Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume CPWG.
DEC prepared a CPWG report that is available with other site-related documents online through the DECinfo Locator (links below) or at the location(s) identified in the section of the Community Update titled "Where to Find Information."
- Northrop Grumman - Bethpage Facility (130003A) Repository
- Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (130003B) Repository
Link to Citizen Participation Plan with Community Participation Working Group as Addendum A, February 1, 2023 (PDF, 21 Pages, 653 KB).
Community members interested in joining the CPWG can submit letters of interest to CBI at the address below or sign up online.
NYSDEC Announces an Agreement with Northrop Grumman to Hydraulically Contain the Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume
NYSDEC has reached an agreement with Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (Grumman) and finalized a Consent Decree regarding the remediation of the Navy Grumman groundwater plume located in Bethpage, New York. A link to the final Consent Decree is included below. The Consent Decree formalizes understandings reached in December 2020 between NYSDEC and Grumman to advance the company's actions to install additional extraction wells, construct and operate treatment plants, and return the treated water to the aquifer system as part of a comprehensive plan to contain and clean up the Navy Grumman groundwater plume. The proposed settlement also requires the company to undertake additional work within the plume and provide compensation to New York State and affected water districts in the form of Natural Resource Damages.
Link to Final Consent Decree: Final Consent Decree between NYSDEC and Northrop Grumman, August 3, 2022 (PDF, 57 Pages, 3.8 MB)
Amended Remedy Selected for Hydraulic Containment of the Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume
NYSDEC issued a Fact Sheet (PDF) on December 20, 2019 announcing the release of the Amended Record of Decision(AROD) (PDF). The selected remedy outlined in the AROD details the construction, long-term operation and maintenance of a full containment and treatment system to effectively halt further spread of the Navy Grumman groundwater plume.
The selection of a final remedy to hydraulically contain the Navy Grumman groundwater plume comes after the release of the Proposed Amended Record of Decision on May 23, 2019 and a 45-day comment period from May 23, 2019 - July 8, 2019. The AROD contains a Responsiveness Summary that includes the Department's responses to over 200 comments that were received during this 45-day comment period.
Documents Related to the Amended Remedy Available Online:
Amended Record of Decision, December 2019 (PDF, 299 pages, 10 MB)
Fact Sheet - Remedy Selected for Full Hydraulic Containment of the Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume, December 2019 (PDF, 4 pages, 1 MB)
Feasibility Study Report, April 2019 (PDF, 236 pages, 7.1 MB)
Proposed Amended Record of Decision, May 2019 (PDF, 58 pages, 3.3 MB)
Fact Sheet - Amended Remedy Proposed for Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume, May 2019 (PDF, 4 pages, 329 KB)
Proposed Amended Record of Decision June 10, 2019 Public Meeting Presentation (PDF, 53 pages, 4.6 MB)
Comments and questions are always welcome:
PROJECT-RELATED QUESTIONS:
Sarah Johnston
Project Manager NYSDEC
625 Broadway
Albany, New York 12233
(518) 402-3854
[email protected]
Navy Site
Kristi Granzen
Project Manager NYSDEC
625 Broadway
Albany, New York 12233
(518) 402-9772
[email protected]
HEALTH-RELATED QUESTIONS:
Jim Sullivan
Project Manager, NYSDOH
Empire State Plaza
Corning Tower, Room #1787
Albany, New York 12237
(518) 402-7860
[email protected]
Site History
From 1942 to 1996, approximately 600 acres of property in the Town of Oyster Bay were used for the manufacture of military aircraft by the United States Navy and the Northrop Grumman Corporation. As shown on the figure to the right, the United States Navy owned approximately 109 acres for the Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (NWIRP) and the remainder of the 600 acres was owned by Northrop Grumman.
The historic storage and disposal practices during this time period resulted in soil and groundwater contamination at this site. The primary contaminants are referred to as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and were commonly used by industry for degreasing purposes. While the U.S. Navy and Northrop Grumman have taken remedial actions to address this contamination (discussed below), groundwater contamination continues to migrate south toward currently unimpacted public water supplies and unimpacted portions of the Long Island Sole Source Aquifer. The figure to the right shows the locations of the Northrop Grumman Bethpage Facility site and NWIRP sites.
Current Activities
Some of the major site-related activities that are currently being completed by NYSDEC, Northrop Grumman, and the U.S. Navy are summarized below.
Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume
Investigation and Feasibility Study Evaluating Supplemental Remedial Alternatives for the Navy Grumman Groundwater Plume
In February 2017, NYSDEC initiated an expanded and expedited investigation to develop an up-to-date understanding of the groundwater plume associated with the Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant site and Northrop Grumman Bethpage Facility site (Navy Grumman groundwater plume) and an engineering analysis to evaluate cleanup alternatives to address the Navy Grumman groundwater plume. To complete this investigation and engineering evaluation, NYSDEC partnered with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and issued a work assignment to the engineering contractor Henningson, Durham, & Richardson Architecture and Engineering, P.C. (HDR).
Some highlights of the expanded investigation are summarized below:
Vertical Profile Boring Drilling, Monitoring Well Installation, and Groundwater Sampling Program
To help NYSDEC to understand the southern extent of the Navy Grumman groundwater plume, two vertical profile borings (VPBs) were advanced along the distal end of the plume. The borings were installed near the Southern State Parkway and drilled to depths of approximately 1,000 feet beneath the ground surface. To allow for the collection of groundwater samples from these two locations, the vertical profile borings were completed as permanent groundwater monitoring wells. The image to the left shows the equipment used to drill the vertical profile borings.
Comprehensive Groundwater Sampling Results Database Development
Groundwater quality data derived from previous investigations and routine groundwater sampling was compiled into a single comprehensive groundwater database. This database includes over 5,600 groundwater samples collected from over 540 locations for a total of over 200,000 individual records. The database was then used to analyze and evaluate the nature and extent of the Navy Grumman groundwater plume and to prepare up-to-date two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) visualizations of the groundwater contamination. As shown on the 2D plume representation on the figure to the right, the Navy Grumman groundwater plume (pink shading) extends approximately 4.3 miles south toward the Southern State Parkway and to depths of approximately 900 feet beneath the ground surface. At its widest point, the plume is approximately 2.1 miles wide. An example of the Trichoroethylene (TCE) plume in 3D is depicted in the figure below.
Groundwater Flow Modeling Program
In partnership with the USGS, an updated groundwater flow model capable of simulating groundwater flow beneath Long Island was developed. The USGS model was used to evaluate how various groundwater extraction and discharge scenarios influenced plume migration and groundwater containment and was a critical component of the Feasibility Study which led to the identification of a preferred remedy outlined in the Proposed Amended Record of Decision (AROD) for addressing the Navy Grumman groundwater plume.
Engineering Evaluation Included in a Feasibility Study
The engineering analysis and Feasibility Study relied on the results of the groundwater flow modeling to compare groundwater extraction alternatives and quantify the volume of groundwater requiring extraction, treatment, and discharge to achieve remedial action objectives. The primary objective of the engineering analysis is to evaluate technically feasible options to address the Navy Grumman groundwater plume in order to prevent its further expansion and migration and reduce its volume and contaminant concentrations, which is summarized in a Feasibility Study Report (PDF, 236 pages, 7.1 MB). Based on the results of the Feasibility Study, NYSDEC issued a Proposed AROD. The Proposed ROD Amendment identifies the preferred remedy, summarizes the other alternatives considered, and discusses the reasons for the preferred remedy.
Fast-Track Well Drilling Program
To jump-start the Navy Grumman groundwater plume cleanup effort, at the Governor's direction in the 2018 State of the State, NYSDEC fast-tracked the drilling and completion of three of the four groundwater extraction wells in 2018 and the drilling of the fourth extraction well will commence during the spring of 2019. These extraction wells were installed in areas with high concentrations of site contaminants and will ultimately be part of the overall system to remediate the Navy Grumman groundwater plume.
Northrop Grumman Remedial Activities
In accordance with 1995, 2001, and 2013 Records of Decision issued by NYSDEC, Northrop Grumman continues to implement several remedial actions. These include the following:
On-Site Containment System (ONCT)
Northrop Grumman has been pumping contaminated groundwater from five extraction wells since 1998. Following removal, the contaminated water is treated and returned to the aquifer through a series of recharge basins. In total, this system has removed over 200,000 pounds of contamination from the aquifer.
Bethpage Park Groundwater Containment System
Northrop Grumman has been pumping contaminated groundwater from four wells since 2009. Following removal, the contaminated water is treated and returned to the groundwater system through a series of recharge basins. In total, this system has removed over 2,200 pounds of contamination from the aquifer.
Soil Vapor Extraction System
Since 2009, Northrop Grumman has been operating a soil vapor extraction system to reduce soil gas concentrations and prevent off-site migration of soil vapor. Following removal, the contaminated soil vapor is treated and discharged to the atmosphere.
RW-21 Groundwater Hot Spot Area
Northrop Grumman identified an off-site area (RW-21 Area) with high concentrations of site contaminants in groundwater. Three recovery wells were recently installed to remove this contaminated groundwater and Northrop Grumman is developing plans to construct a treatment plant and an underground conveyance system to return the treated water to the aquifer. Northrop Grumman expects this system to be operating in 2020. This system will remove approximately two million gallons of contaminated water from the aquifer per day.
Former Grumman Settling Ponds (Bethpage Community Park)
In early 2019, Northrop Grumman began drilling a series of in-situ (in-place) thermal remediation wells to address VOC contamination that remains in soil in the area of the Former Grumman Settling Ponds (former ballfield area). The in-situ thermal remedy will begin operation in mid-2019 and is expected to be completed by early 2020. While this in-situ thermal remedy is being implemented, Northrop Grumman will be designing a remedy involving excavation and off-site disposal of soil containing PCB and metals contamination present in the Former Grumman Settling Ponds area. This excavation remedy will be performed in accordance with NYSDEC approved work plans and following completion of the in-situ thermal remedy (expected early 2020).
Implementation of a Public Water Supply Contingency Plan
In cooperation with the U.S. Navy, Northrop Grumman continues to implement a Public Water Supply Contingency Plan. This plan involves monitoring groundwater quality in outpost monitoring wells to determine if wellhead treatment, or comparable alternative measures are needed to protect downgradient public water supplies.
Implementation of a Monitoring Plan
In cooperation with the U.S. Navy, Northrop Grumman continues with a long-term monitoring program to evaluate the current remedial activities, to better define the contaminant plume, determine if additional groundwater remediation is needed, and to assess the need for possible wellhead treatment under the Public Water Supply Contingency Plan.
United States Navy Remedial Activities
In accordance with 1995, 2003, 2015, and 2018 Records of Decision issued by the U.S. Navy and NYSDEC, the U.S. Navy continues to implement several remedial actions. These include the following:
GM-38 Groundwater Extraction and Treatment System
The U.S. Navy has been pumping contaminated groundwater from two wells since 2008. Following removal, the contaminated water is treated and returned to the groundwater system through a nearby recharge basin. In total, this system has removed over 10,000 pounds of contamination from the aquifer.
Soil Vapor Extraction System
Since 2009, the U.S. Navy has been operating a soil vapor extraction system to reduce soil gas concentrations and prevent off-site migration of soil vapor. Following removal, the contaminated soil vapor is treated and discharged to the atmosphere.
RE-108 Area
The U.S. Navy identified an off-site area (RE-108 Area) with high concentrations of site contaminants in groundwater. The U.S. Navy is currently designing a groundwater extraction, treatment, and disposal system. The U.S. Navy expects the first phase of the RE-108 system to be operating in 2020. When fully operating, this system will remove approximately two million gallons of contaminated water from the aquifer per day.
Site 1 - Former Drum Marshaling Area
The U.S. Navy began site preparation work in early 2019 in support of a remedy involving the excavation and off-site disposal of approximately 45,000 cubic yards of PCB contaminated soil from the Site 1 - Former Drum Marshaling Area (see figure to left). The excavation, off-site disposal, and site restoration is expected to be completed by early 2020.
Site 4 - Former Underground Storage Tank Area
In late 2018, the U.S. Navy began operation of a steam injection with liquid recovery system to address fuel oil contamination in the area of former underground storage tanks. The system is expected to operate for approximately one to two years.
U.S. Navy Restoration Advisory Board Meetings
The U.S. Navy continues to hold Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) meetings twice annually (typically in April and November). These meetings are open to the public and allow the public to learn about current U.S. Navy activities and to ask questions.
Implementation of a Monitoring Program
As described above, in cooperation with Northrop Grumman, the U.S. Navy continues with a long-term monitoring program and the Public Water Supply Contingency Plan.
The U.S. Navy and Northrop Grumman have provided funding to support the installation of wellhead treatment at six local public water supplies. This wellhead treatment allows the water purveyors to provide drinking water that meets the New York State Department of Health drinking water requirements.
For More Information
Complete copies of the documents listed on this web page and other documents pertaining to the investigation and cleanup activities, are available in hard copy and electronically for public review at the following location:
Bethpage Public Library
47 Powell Avenue
Bethpage, NY 11714
(516) 931-3907
Additional information and documents on the U.S. Navy activities at the Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant can be found at the following link: http://go.usa.gov/DyXF
If you have any questions regarding this site, please contact Mr. Jason Pelton, NYSDEC Project Manager, at (518) 402-9478.
Sign up at the "DEC Delivers" web page to have fact sheets and other updates about the Sites delivered right to your email inbox. Be sure to sign up for "Nassau County".
Other Available Documents
- 2018 United States Navy Operable Unit 04 Record of Decision (PDF, 102 pages, 3.9 MB) - August 2018 Record of Decision documents the selected remedy for the Site 1 - Former Drum Marshaling Area to address Contaminated Soil, Soil Vapor, and Groundwater associated with the Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (NWIRP) Site.
- 2013 NYSDEC Operable Unit 03 Record of Decision (PDF, 95 pages, 2.5 MB) - March 2013 Record of Decision documents the selected remedy for the Bethpage Park-Former Grumman Settling Ponds and Adjacent Areas of the Northrop Grumman - Bethpage Facility Site.
- 2001 NYSDEC Operable Unit 02 Groundwater Record of Decision (PDF, 81 pages, 6 MB) - March 2001 Record of Decision documents the selected remedy for the Operable Unit 02 Regional Groundwater Contaminant Plume associated with the Northrop Grumman - Bethpage Facility Site and the NWIRP Site.
- 1995 NYSDEC Operable Unit 01 Grumman Aerospace - Bethpage Facility Record of Decision (PDF, 37 pages, 1.3 MB) - March 1995 Record of Decision documents the selected remedy for the Operable Unit 01 on-site soil contamination associated with the Grumman Aerospace - Bethpage Facility.
- Northrop Grumman Bethpage Facility Radiological Report (PDF, 15 pages, 1.3 MB) - In 2016, DEC directed Northrop Grumman to provide a comprehensive audit of past usage of radioactive materials at their Bethpage, NY facilities. After a thorough analysis of the report, DEC has demanded additional evidence to corroborate Grumman's claims contained in this report.
- Bethpage Community Park Investigation Sampling Program - December 2003 (PDF, 191 pages, 565 KB)
- Investigation Sampling Program Figures - December 2003 (PDF, 4 pages, 670 KB)
- Investigation Sampling Program Additional Figures - December 2003 (PDF, 5 pages, 1.1 MB)
In 2016 NYSDEC issued a Remedial Options Report (ROR). The ROR evaluated potential remedial options, costs, and timetables to intercept and remediate the groundwater plume associated with the Grumman Aerospace-Bethpage Facility. The ROR can be downloaded in two parts:
- Remedial Options Report Grumman Aerospace-Bethpage Facility - Text and Tables - July 2016 (PDF, 72 pages, 1.1 MB)
- Remedial Options Report Grumman Aerospace-Bethpage Facility - Figures and Appendix - July 2016 (PDF, 37 pages, 4.9 MB)
DEC invited public comment about the ROR between August 10 and September 9, 2016. Comments were received as follows:
- Citizen Comments About the ROR - August 2016 (PDF, 28 pages, 299 KB)
- Government Comments About the ROR - September 2016 (PDF, 17 pages, 607 KB)
- Organization Comments About the ROR - August 2016 (PDF, 12 pages, 253 KB)
- Northrop Grumman Comments About the ROR - September 2016 (PDF, 86 pages, 3.2 MB)
- United States Department of the Navy Comments About the ROR - September 2016 (PDF, 14 pages, 3.2 MB)
- Nassau County Department of Health Comments About the ROR - September 2016 (PDF, 3 pages, 218 KB)