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Rayonier Off-Property Soil Dioxin Study

SITE DESCRIPTION

Past soil sampling has shown that dioxin levels may exceed state cleanup levels in areas near the Rayonier Port Angeles Mill cleanup site (Rayonier site).  Ecology will be investigating the extent and possible sources of dioxin pollution nearby and downwind of the Rayonier site.
 
This study will look at:

• The magnitude of dioxin soil contamination in the areas identified as "downwind" of the Rayonier site.
• The former Rayonier Mill's contribution to measure dioxin contamination, compared to other possible sources.

What are dioxins?

Dioxins are a family of chemicals that have similar chemical structures and biological effects. They are unintentional by-products of both human activities and natural processes. They do not break down easily in the environment, and as a result, are found everywhere. Most people are exposed to very small background levels of dioxins when they breathe air, consume food or milt, or have skin contact with dioxin contaminated soils or other materials.

Sources: Dioxins can be formed during industrial processes, such as chlorine bleaching of pulp (done at the Rayonier Mill in the past) and certain types of chemical manufacturing. Dioxins can also be formed during combustion (burning) and waste incineration. This includes home burn barrels*, fireplaces, and wood stoves.

*Please visit the Olympic Region Clean Air Agency for more information about the health effects of home burning and how to reduce your risk.

Public Involvement Opportunities

• Fact Sheet -- June 27, 2008
• FAQ -- June 27, 2008
• Soil Sampling Plan - Public Review Draft
  • Figure 1-1 Site Location Map
  • Figure 1-2 Structure and chlorine substitution for dioxins and furans
  • Figure 1-3 Soil Sample Locations from Various Studies
  • Figure 2-1 Generalized relationship between chemical concentration in soil and distance from sources
  • Figure 4-1 Study Area Boundary
  • Figure 4-2 Odor Complaint Map
  • Figure 4-3 Air Dispersion and Deposition Model
  • Figure 4-4 Potential Fixed Sources of Dioxins/Furans
  • Figure 5-1 Sample Zones
  • Figure 5-2 Sample Grid Spacing
  • Figure 5-3 Generalized Upslope Transect Sampling Areas
  • Figure 7-1 Process for Obtaining Property Access
• Conceptual Site Model
• Figures
• July 9th Public Open House Presentation
• July 9th Technical Workshop Presentation
• Public Participation Plan

Related Information

• Watershed Information for WRIA 18

Additional Resources

• Acronyms used by the Toxic Cleanup Program
• Cleanup Process: Major Steps & Definitions
• Data Submittal Requirements for All Cleanup Sites
• Facility/Site Atlas
• Toxics Cleanup publications