Groundwater Pollution Site in O'Neill, Holt County, Nebraska - Information Sheet, November 2018
In the picturesque town of O'Neill, located in Holt County near the northeastern extent of the Sandhills region, an environmental investigation is underway. The O'Neill U.S. Department of Agriculture Grain Bin Site (EPA ID No. NEN000705746) has been identified as a potential source of contamination, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality conducting past environmental investigations in the area.
The contamination at the site is associated with historical industrial practices, with common sources of groundwater contamination including manufacturing facilities, dry cleaning facilities, automotive repair facilities, and parts degreasing facilities. The most recent sampling, conducted in July 2018, documented trichloroethylene (TCE) contamination of groundwater in O'Neill.
Trichloroethylene is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that can pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. Exposure to high levels of TCE may cause adverse effects to the nervous system, heart rhythm, and liver. Some human studies suggest that TCE may cause developmental effects such as congenital heart defects, central nervous system defects, and small birth weight. There is strong evidence that TCE can cause kidney cancer in people and some evidence that it causes liver cancer and malignant lymphoma (a blood cancer).
To further investigate the extent of the contamination and potential threats to human health and the environment, the EPA will conduct additional groundwater and vapor intrusion sampling in O'Neill. The investigation will include further characterization of contaminants in groundwater and vapor intrusion samples will be taken to determine if hazardous vapors related to the site are present in the subsurface soils.
For questions or site information, residents can contact Manuel Schmaedick (schmaedick.manuel@our website) or Pamela Houston (houston.pamela@our website). Manuel Schmaedick, a researcher or official involved in the investigation and assessment of the site, may contribute expertise or analysis regarding its significance or conditions.
As the investigation continues, the community of O'Neill, with a population of 3,705, will remain vigilant and informed, ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents. The EPA and local authorities will work together to address the contamination and protect the environment for future generations.
