Rayonier Pulp Mill Closure Site, Washington

Site Overview

Site Location

Port Angeles, Washington

Site Description

A cultural assessment indicated that the Rayonier Mill was built on the location of a former Klallam Village and burial site. Artifacts have been recovered by Rayonier during various stages of expansion. Since 1997, the mill has been closed and has undergone various stages of demolition. During an Expanded Site Investigation in October 1998, the EPA identified five areas of the site as potential sources of hazardous substances. Primary contaminants of concern include dioxins, furans, polychlorinated biphenyls, and metals. On- and off-site locations were identified as potential receptors of contamination, including Ennis Creek, Strait of Juan de Fuca, the wastewater treatment collection system, and nearby homes and businesses.

Currently, the tribe is concerned about the impact of hazardous substances to tribal waters and fishery resources from cultural, subsistence, and economic standpoints. The tribe's main objective is to redress environmental impact to the former Rayonier site and surrounding areas. In addition, the tribe would like to remain involved in the recovery of cultural artifacts from the burial site.

Organization Requesting Assistance

Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Environmental Quality Program

Beginning Date of Assistance

June 1998

Summary of TOSC Assistance

Support includes coordinating efforts among the Western Region HSRC, EPA offices, and the tribe for review and public comment on PA/SI and cultural assessment reports for the paper mill closure site. Future support will include review of laboratory data validation reports for various contaminants in fish tissue samples and other technical documents.

NOTE:  The EPA TOSC and TOSNAC programs have ended.