Bruin Lagoon covers about 4 acres adjacent to the western bank of the South Branch of Bear Creek in a highly industrialized narrow valley in Bruin Borough, Butler County, Pennsylvania.
Homes adjoin the site.
Bruin Lagoon is approximately 7 stream miles above where Bear Creek meets the Allegheny River, an important water supply source for many industries and communities, including Pittsburgh. The wastes on-site are primarily from the white oil manufacturing industry. They contain sulfuric acid, heavy metals, and other materials. Contamination of ground water, surface water, and air has been documented. Failure of the dike containing the open lagoon is the foremost concern.