In the treatment area were a pond filled with water used for fire protection and a sump where any effluent from the treatment process was collected. These compounds are constituents of creosote. Ground water is the most important source of drinking water in the area. The Artesian Water Co. draws drinking water from three wells within 3 miles of the site and blends it with other water to serve its 150,000 customers. The wells tap the Lower Potomac Formation, which consists of permeable deposits and is hydraulically connected to the overlying Columbia Formation, permitting water to move between them.
Wetlands are present both on the site and bordering the site.
The description may change as additional information is gathered on the sources and extent of contamination.