EPA approves groundwater cleanup plan to protect Detroit River from industrial contamination
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved a comprehensive groundwater cleanup plan for the BASF North Works site in Wyandotte, Michigan, marking a major step toward preventing contaminated groundwater from reaching the Detroit River.
The 230-acre industrial facility has operated since the 1800s and is currently used to manufacture chemicals and other products. Investigations by EPA and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy identified groundwater contamination containing heavy metals, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), volatile organic compounds and semi-volatile organic compounds.
The approved design, known as the "100% basis of design," authorizes construction to begin in early 2027. The remediation system will include underground perimeter barriers to limit groundwater migration beyond the site and into the Detroit River, a groundwater collection and extraction network to capture contaminated water and an on-site treatment facility to remove pollutants before discharge.
EPA, EGLE and BASF developed the final design through a series of phased work plans that include detailed engineering specifications and construction plans.