Superfund

Even after cleanups at Superfund sites are completed, additional efforts may be necessary to ensure that the cleanup remedy works and protects human health and the environment. For example, if contaminated soil is contained with a waterproof cover, the cover must be maintained indefinitely to prevent erosion. Similarly, treatment systems for contaminated groundwater may have to be operated for decades before reaching and maintaining acceptable levels of water quality. This testimony focuses on (1) the extent to which operations and maintenance activities are necessary at National Priorities List sites; (2) projected costs to the federal government, states, and responsible parties to carry out these activities; and (3) EPA's efforts to ensure that sites requiring operating and maintenance activities adequately protect human health and the environment.