Katahdin Mulch

CES, Inc. was retained in April 2005 to complete Phase I and Phase II ESAs at bark pile storage locations in Millinocket and East Millinocket, Maine, associated with historical operations of the area paper mills. The largest of these sites encompassed an area greater than 50 acres. Phase II ESA activities at the Millinocket bark pile site were completed primarily to address recognized environmental conditions (RECs) identified during the completion of the Phase I ESA and to obtain MDEP liability protection through the VRAP Program so that the bark could be re-claimed. The attorneys at Eaton Peabody worked closely with CES throughout the project to provide legal advice and expertise. Prior to initiating Phase II activities, a Work Plan was produced by CES and MDEP to outline the scope and level of investigation necessary to obtain liability protection through VRAP. CES utilized the company-owned Geoprobe® rig to collect subsurface and groundwater samples for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Semi-volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs), Gasoline Range Organics (GROs), Diesel Range Organics (DROs) and metals analysis. A test pitting program was also completed to further investigate the potential for buried waste and to quantify the amount of usable bark mulch at the site. Based on the results of the Phase II ESA, a “No Action Assurance” letter outlining the extent of liability coverage was issued by VRAP. In order to meet a condition of the “No Action Assurance” letter, a solid waste processing license (06 096 CMR Chapter 409) was obtained and an Operations Manual was prepared by CES and approved by MDEP. The properties were then purchased and reclamation activities at the East Millinocket bark pile site were initiated in 2005 by Katahdin Mulch, Inc. who excavates the bark and markets it as a high-grade mulch. The other waste items that are encountered are being removed from the site and recycled or disposed of at a licensed solid waste disposal facility. Through cooperation with VRAP, CES was able to turn what were once potential sources of environmental contamination into resources that can be used to bolster Maine’s forest product economy. Additionally, when the bark is reclaimed, the sites can be restored and developed.