Property Survey Summary For Fort Custer

REVISED PROPERTY SURVEY SUMMARY SHEET
for
DERP-FUDS PROPERTY NO. E05MI0013
FEDERAL FACILITY IDENTIFICATION NO. MI9799F2253
Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas
Augusta and Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and Calhoun Counties, Michigan
September 2017
PROPERTY NAME: The property was originally named Camp Custer and subsequently
changed to Fort Custer and Fort Custer Military Reservation (FCMR). The Formerly Used
Defense Sites (FUDS) eligible property associated with the former Camp Custer includes two
areas: the Fort Custer Recreation Area and the Fort Custer Industrial Park. These areas exist on
either side (east and west) of the central portion of the former Camp Custer. The central portion
remains an active installation owned by the Department of Defense (DoD) and leased to the
Michigan National Guard, and is ineligible for restoration under the DERP-FUDS program.
Generally, the FUDS-eligible portion of the property to the west of the existing installation is
referred to as the “Recreation Area”, and the portion of the property to the east of the active
installation is the “Industrial Area”.
LOCATION: The Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas are located within the original
15,052.2 fee acres and 4.86 easement acres historically occupied by the Fort Custer Military
Reservation (FCMR). This property is located approximately six miles west of the city of Battle
Creek, Michigan, in Calhoun and Kalamazoo Counties. The property occupies parts of four
townships: Township 1 South, Range 9 West; Township 1 South, Range 8 West; Township 2
South, Range 9 West; and Township 2 South, Range 8 West. The Fort Custer Recreation and
Industrial Areas are located near coordinates 42° 19’ 26.6” North, 85° 18' 48.8" West, in the 7th
Congressional District of Michigan, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region
V.
PROPERTY HISTORY: In 1917, the city of Battle Creek was asked to submit an offer of land
for a military camp. The Battle Creek Chamber of Commerce offered the former town of
Harmonia, which had primarily been used for farming after the town was abandoned.
Construction of the military camp, designated as Camp Custer, began the same year. During
World War I (WW I), Camp Custer served as an induction and training center for draftees from
Michigan and Wisconsin. Between the wars, the area served as a training facility for the Reserve
Officers’ Training Corps, Civilian Conservation Corps, and Citizen’s Military Training Corp. In
1940-41 the Army expanded and improved the facility and re-designated it as Fort Custer.
The FCMR was used primarily for induction and training of military personnel during WW I,
World War II (WW II), and the Korean War. The Army’s use of Fort Custer for training
purposes required the installation to maintain various small arms ranges, combat courses, hand
grenade courts, anti-aircraft ranges, rocket launcher and rifle grenade ranges and artillery ranges.
On 10 May 1923, an Executive Order transferred 675 acres of Camp Custer to the U.S. Veterans
Bureau (now the Veterans Administration [VA]) for construction of a new Veterans Hospital. In
1950, the U.S. Air Force obtained a permit from the VA for 30 acres to construct a radar station.
This radar station became part of the Custer Air Force Station (AFS), which was established on
Amended INPR for Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas Enclosure 1
Property Number E05MI0013 Page 1/8
non-contiguous tracts of land within the FCMR. The Air Force removed the radar station from
service in March 1965 and terminated the permit in June 1970.
In 1953, Fort Custer was declared inactive. Fort Custer officially closed as an Army installation
on June 30, 1968 and became a weekend training site for reserve component forces. Prior to
closure, large portions of Fort Custer were leased for grazing purposes, licensed to the State of
Michigan for the National Guard, or used by the Job Corps. The Job Corps was a program for
disadvantaged youths to gain skills for future careers and operated at the Property from 1965 to
1969. A large portion of Fort Custer is now used by the National Guard as the Fort Custer
Training Center (FCTC) and is ineligible for FUDS. Ineligible acreages are listed below:
• Michigan National Guard FCTC – 7,523.4 acres

• U.S. Navy Historic Lease – 215.8 acres
• Transfer to a private individual on January 7, 1987 – 8.2 acres
• U.S. Army lease to FEMA – 215.5 acres
• U.S. Navy – 31.82 acres
• Post Cemetery – 12.24 acres
The area formerly comprised of Camp Custer and Fort Custer encompassed 15,057.06 acres.
FUDS Property E05MI0013 is approximately 5,990 acres1. FUDs Property E05MI0006 accounts
for 554.73 acres and is described in a separate INPR. The remaining approximately 505 eligible
acres are currently not accounted for in either property. It is recommended that the 505 acres,
associated with transfers to the VA in 1923 and 1947, be added to FUDS Property E05MI0006.
FUDS Property E05MI0013 is now primarily owned by the City of Battle Creek and the State of
Michigan.
PROPERTY VISIT: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has conducted several site
visits and performed numerous environmental investigations and remedial activities since the
property was determined to be FUDS eligible on 7 April 1993. A new property visit was not
necessary for the preparation of this amended INPR, as it is being prepared in response to a
Preliminary Assessment (PA) performed at the property.
CATEGORY OF HAZARD(S): Building Demolition and Debris Removal (BD/DR);

Containerized Hazardous, Toxic, and Radioactive Waste (CON/HTRW); Hazardous, Toxic, and
Radioactive Waste (HTRW); and Military Munitions Response Program (MMRP). No
Potentially Responsible Party (PRP)/HTRW or PRP/MMRP project are identified for this
property at this time.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The following is a summary of the projects at this property.
E05MI001301 MDNR & City of Battle Creek (BD/DR) – This BD/DR project was approved
on 15 July 1993 to remove 22 buildings and radar tower structures. It also included filling and
leveling of an exposed foundation remnant. This project was declared No DoD Action Indicated,
1
A revised Findings and Determination of Eligibility will be completed for this Property to reflect
inaccuracies realized during the Preliminary Assessment.
category (NDAI) IV and closed in the FUDS Management Information Systems (FUDSMIS) on
30 September 1996.
E05MI001302 Three Ranges (HTRW) – This project was approved in a CEMP-RF

memorandum, dated 15 July 1993, and used as a site wide HTRW project. It was focused to test
soil and groundwater at three former ordnance ranges at the Fort Custer Recreation Area (the
Fuel Tank Jettison Ordnance Area, the Hand Grenade Training Area North, and the Hand
Grenade Training Area South) and a former military dump area adjacent to the Fort Custer
National Cemetery. Since the physical location of the cemetery dump area is with the Fort Custer
VA Area Property E05MI0006, the dump area investigation was forwarded to Fort Custer VA
Area HTRW project E05MI000603. A Site Inspection (SI) Report, dated March 1997,
recommended no further action (NFA) with respect to hazardous or toxic waste at the Fuel Tank
Jettison Ordnance Area and Hand Grenade Training Areas. Subsequently, a SI was conducted at
motor repair shops at the property (Sites B, EE, GG, II, and T) in 2008 and 2009, which
recommended NFA for each of the respective sites. This INPR seeks after-the-fact approval for
work already performed on these former motor repair shops. During the 2016 PA investigation,
nine additional motor repair shops were identified as Areas of Interest (AOIs) A-39, P-48, P-49,
P-50, A-54, P-57, P-58, A-63, and A-74, and recommended for NFA for HTRW concerns.
However, the final 2016 PA identified CON/HTRW concerns based on the potential presence of
remaining underground storage tanks (USTs) at five of these areas. These concerns are proposed
to be addressed under CON/HTRW Project E05MI001314. Therefore, NFA and project closeout
of E05MI001302 is recommended. Additional information can be found in Enclosure 4.
E05MI001303 Skeet Range/.22 Range/Range Complex No. 1 (West) (MMRP) – This project
was approved in a CEMP-RF memorandum, dated 15 July 1993, as a site-wide MMRP
investigation to address Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC) or Munitions Constituents
(MC) concerns associated with the historical DoD usage of the property. In accordance with
MMRP Realignment Guidance and the 2007 MMRP SI, this project was revised in 2013 to
address the areas known as the Skeet Range and the .22 Range, noted as Range Complex No.1
(West). The Munitions Response Site Prioritization Protocol (MRSPP) resulted in “no known or
suspected hazard” for the Skeet Range, the .22 Range, and the .50 Caliber Anti-Aircraft Range.
Originally, this project also included a WWII Ordnance Storage Area identified from historic site
maps and aerial photographs. This area was included in an 8.2-acre transfer to a private
individual on 7 January 1987. It has subsequently been determined that this acreage is ineligible
for FUDS due to its transfer after 17 October 1986. The WWII Ordnance Storage Area will be
formally referred to an appropriate component through written notification in accordance with
FUDS policy. This area will not be addressed further under this project. The project was declared
NDAI II in the FUDSMIS on 27 September 2007. The project achieved closeout on 16 June
2016 with regulatory concurrence. During the PA in 2016, an additional area within the .22 range
boundary was identified in an aerial photograph (1950) that exhibited properties of a skeet range
and trap field (see Figure 4). This skeet range is in addition to the skeet range named in the
project title. This area was not depicted in any historical maps reviewed for the PA; however, it
was considered as part of this project area for this INPR Amendment due to its location. Since
1950, the area has been paved and developed, both by DoD and subsequent users, which would
have disturbed any evidence of lead or PAHs deposited during range operation. DoD impacts are
not apparent and cannot be discerned from current property conditions; therefore, this project
area is not recommended for further environmental response and this project remains closed.
Additional information can be found in Enclosure 5.
E05MI001304 Roberts Packaging Company (CON/HTRW) – This project was approved in a

CEMP-RF memorandum, dated 15 July 1993, to remove one 20,000-gallon UST and associated
contaminated soils. The removal action was completed in May 1994 with soil samples
indicating slightly elevated levels of toluene. Subsequent investigation, reported in the
November 1995 closure report, recommended that the UST excavation area be closed. High
levels of lead were observed in three soil samples during the 1995 investigation. However, lead
is not a constituent investigated under CON/HTRW; therefore, the lead investigation was
forwarded to HTRW project E05MI001306. Regulatory concurrence was provided in a letter
dated 30 November 1995. This project was declared NDAI IV and achieved project closeout in
the FUDSMIS on 30 September 1996.
E05MI001305 EPI Printing (HTRW) – This project was approved in a CEMP-RF

memorandum, dated 18 April 1997, to address petroleum-contaminated soil and groundwater
associated with property use as a gas station at the FCMR. This project was declared NDAI in
FUDSMIS on 15 May 2008; however, no documentation could be found to support this
determination. Due to a lack of regulator concurrence, this project was revisited in 2015 with a
letter to the State providing the technical approach used to determine NDAI and requesting
concurrence for project closure. Historical data concerning the petroleum release and previous
remedial actions indicate that the site does not pose an imminent and substantial endangerment to
public health or welfare or to the environment. The State did not concur with the closeout
request; consequently, the project information and history of correspondence was forwarded to
CELRD-PM and approved by Division for closure in a memorandum dated 19 September 2016.
Therefore, this project was closed in the FUDSMIS on 22 September 2016 without regulatory
concurrence.
E05MI001306 Roberts Packaging Lead Contaminated Soil (HTRW) – This project was
approved on 5 June 1996 to address lead contamination in soil associated with CON/HTRW
Project E05MI001304. The lead concentrations were below Statewide Default Background
Levels or the applicable Residential and Commercial I, Part 201 Generic Cleanup Criteria and
Screening Levels for soil. Consequently, this project was declared NDAI II in FUDSMIS on
30 June 2008. This project was closed in the FUDSMIS on 27 September 2010 with regulatory
concurrence.
E05MI001307 Kellogg Company UST Investigation (CON/HTRW) – This project was

approved in a CELRD-OR-DL-M memorandum, dated 19 August 1997, to investigate the
possible presence of USTs at the Kellogg Company parcel located within the Fort Custer
Industrial Area portion of the FUDS property. The investigation included a magnetometer
sweep, excavation of test pits, and soil sampling. Based on the results of the investigation, no
additional response actions were considered necessary. Consequently, this project was declared
NDAI in FUDSMIS on 15 September 1998. This project was closed in the FUDSMIS on
22 July 2010 with regulatory concurrence.
E05MI001309 UST at AF SGT Association (CON/HTRW) – This project was approved in a
CELRD-OR-DL-M memorandum, dated 23 September 1997, to remove one 500-gallon UST,
connecting piping, and associated contaminated soil used by the former dispensary. The UST
was removed on 11 November 1998. This project was declared NDAI IV and closed in the
FUDSMIS on 30 September 1999. Regulatory concurrence was provided in a letter dated 18
January 2000.
E05MI001310 Hand Grenade Court (MMRP) – This project was approved 27 June 2013 to
address MEC and MC concerns in the area known as the Hand Grenade Court. During the
reconnaissance conducted during the 2007 Site Inspection (SI), a 76mm projectile was observed
just south of the grenade court boundary. The grenade court area is part of the popular Green
Loop mountain biking and hiking trail that encircles Eagle Lake. In April and June of 2011,
artillery rounds were found at the Green Loop Trail between markers 5 and 6, south of Eagle
Lake, adjacent to the grenade court area. MEC hazards need to be better characterized due to the
presence of a popular hiking trail located on the site. Response activities are currently underway,
and will continue in accordance with applicable laws and regulations to achieve project closeout.
This INPR Amendment does not identify changes to this project.
E05MI001311 Range Complex No. 1 (Eastern Part) (MMRP) – This project was approved 27
June 2013 to address MEC and MC concerns in the area known as the Range Complex No. 1
(East). Range Complex No. 1 contains five overlapping former ranges: .50 caliber range,
infiltration range, shotgun range, sub-machine gun range, and a rocket launcher range. Previous
investigations indicate MC are not a concern. No munitions related materials have been
identified during previous investigations; however, additional investigation is recommended to
further characterize MEC hazards due to the presence of a public park within the project area.
This MRS includes acreage that was determined to be ineligible for FUDS due to a historic Navy
Lease. The FUDS Property acreage will be revised; however, this INPR Amendment does not
address changes to this project. Response activities are currently underway, and will continue in
accordance with applicable laws and regulations to achieve project closeout.
E05MI001312 Burial Area (MMRP) – This project was approved 27 June 2013 to address
MEC and MC concerns in the area known as the Burial Area. The Burial Area consists of Eagle
Lake and the surrounding shoreline. Historically, discarded munitions (3-inch Stokes mortars)
have been recovered in this area. Based on the results of the September 2007 MMRP SI and the
September 2016 PA, additional investigation is recommended for the Burial Area. Response
activities are currently underway, and will continue in accordance with applicable laws and
regulations to achieve project closeout. This INPR Amendment does not identify changes to this
project.
E05MI001313 Bombing Targets (MMRP) – This project was approved 27 June 2013 to
address MEC and MC concerns in the area known as the Bombing Targets. This area was
historically used as a drop zone for aircraft fuel tanks and likely as a bomb impact area. MEC
has reportedly been found on this site; however, no MEC was observed during the SI or the PA.
Based on the results of the September 2007 MMRP SI and the September 2016 PA, additional
investigation is recommended for the Bombing Targets. Response activities are currently
underway, and will continue in accordance with applicable laws and regulations to achieve
project closeout. This INPR Amendment does not identify changes to this project.
E05MI001314 Motor Repair Shops (CON/HTRW) – This project is being proposed to address
CON/HTRW concerns at former motor repair shops designated as A-39, A-63, A-74, P-50, and
P-57. The 2016 PA indicates that there may be USTs remaining at these AOIs. The remaining
USTs, if still present, could present a CON/HTRW concern. There is no evidence in the PA to
suggest beneficial use of the USTs by subsequent owners. Remedial response activities will be
conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations to achieve project closeout.
Additional information can be found in Enclosure 6.
E05MI001315 Former Radar Station (HTRW) – This project is being proposed to address
HTRW concerns in the area designated as the Former U.S. Air Force Radar Station. Historically,
carbon tetrachloride and trichloroethylene were used in small quantities to clean electronic
equipment and air filters in radar stations. Remedial response activities will be conducted in
accordance with applicable laws and regulations to achieve project closeout. Additional
information can be found in Enclosure 7.
E05MI001316 Former Coal Storage (HTRW) – This project is being proposed to address
HTRW concerns in the area designated as the Former Coal Storage Area. Historical aerial
photographs identify potential coal piles, soil staining, and a former coal dock located southeast
of the VA Medical Center. This area is now divided by Clark Road, which was widened and
paved between 1981 and 1992, post-DoD. The portion east of Clark Road has had additional
earthwork, paving and development by post-DoD users. DoD impacts are not apparent and
cannot be discerned from those of subsequent users; therefore, the portion of the AOI east of
Clark Road is excluded from this project area. The western portion of the AOI exhibited
remnants of coal on the surface during the 2013 site visit conducted for the 2016 PA, and there
has been no evidence of post-DoD development. This project is therefore limited to the
undisturbed portion of the AOI identified during the PA (west of Clark Road). Remedial
response activities will be conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations to
achieve project closeout. Additional information can be found in Enclosure 8.
AVAILABLE STUDIES AND REPORTS: Numerous studies and reports have been
generated to date. These reports are available from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Louisville District.
POINTS OF CONTACT Ms. Nicole Toth, CELRC PM-PM, (312) 846-5517; Mr. Kevin
Mieczkowski, CELRL-ED-E, (502) 315-7447; and Ms. Rachel Williams, CELRL-ED-E,
(502) 315-6341
LEAD REGULATOR: Mr. Bill Harmon, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,

(517) 284-5110.
Former Fort Custer
Military Reservation
FIGURE 1
GENERAL PROPERTY LOCATION MAP
FORT CUSTER RECREATION AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS
AUGUSTA AND BATTLE CREEK, KALAMAZOO AND
CALHOUN COUNTIES, MICHIGAN
42° 18’ 42” NORTH, 85° 18’ 50” WEST
FIGURE 2
MUNITIONS RESPONSE SITES
FORT CUSTER RECREATION AND INDUSTRIAL AREAS
AUGUSTA AND BATTLE CREEK, KALAMAZOO AND
CALHOUN COUNTIES, MICHIGAN
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS OF PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT
FOR
DERP-FUDS PROPERTY NO. E05MI0013
FEDERAL FACILITY ID NUMBER MI9799F2253
Fort Custer Military Reservation

Oak Park and Battle Creek, Michigan
November 2016
COPIED VERBATIM
NOTE: The Preliminary Assessment completed for FUDS Property E05MI0013 also included
FUDS Property E05MI0006; however, FUDS Property E05MI0006 is addressed in a separate
INPR and is not included in this INPR amendment.
The former FCMR was used by the U.S. Army as a troop training facility in WWI, WWII, and
the briefly during the Korean War. The installation was inactivated as a U.S. Army training base
in June 1953, and was formally closed in June 1968. Portions of the former FCMR were
conveyed to the VA, state and city governments, and private individuals. A majority of the
acreage retained by the U.S. Army is leased by the Michigan National Guard who operates the
FCTC.
There were two periods of rapid development. Construction on Camp Custer began in mid-1917,
and buildings, roads and railroad lines in the western cantonment portion were still being
completed when WWI ended on November 11, 1918, Armistice Day. Most buildings were
demolished and the construction materials as well camp equipment and furnishings were sold to
the public in 1921. A 675-acre tract was transferred to the Veterans Bureau/VA to establish the
VA Hospital in May 1923. Between WWI and WWII, Camp Custer was used by ROTC and
CMTC as a weekend and summer training facility. In 1938, projects under the WPA were
implemented that involved major earthwork to build ditches, drain swamps, and improve existing
facilities and grounds. In 1941-1942, additional property was acquired and Camp Custer was
designated as Fort Custer. The cantonment was reconstructed, old roads were re-surfaced, and
new roads were built.
The cantonment areas included buildings for housing, recreation, administration, chapels, and
other support facilities for the military trainees. The quartermaster area was expanded with
additional warehouses and railroad yards. A base hospital was rebuilt near Eagle Lake.
Structures were constructed for ordnance storage, laundry, incineration, gas and oil stations and
1
This statement is incorrect. The remainder of the PA supports range fans and firing points being located outside of
the FCTC, including World War I era ranges.
2
This statement is incorrect. Artillery operations were moved to Camp McCoy in the early 1940’s because the
property was determined to be too small for adequate buffers; however, they were present at the property prior to
1945.
motor repair shops. The training facilities included an anti-tank range, anti-aircraft range, small
arms ranges, a combat range, and a bombing range. With the exception of the bombing range,
all the ranges were located within the FCTC, an area that is not eligible for FUDS.1 Historical
records show that there were no artillery ranges at Fort Custer prior to 1945, and that artillery
training took place at Camp McCoy.2 A map from 1958 depicted artillery and other ranges
however there is uncertainty on whether the map was depicting actual ranges or planned
facilities.
1.1 AREAS OF INTEREST

USACE and MDEQ have previously identified AOIs based on reviews of historical maps, field
investigations, and site visits. The AOIs identified by USACE were summarized in Table 3-1,
while the AOIs identified by MDEQ were summarized in Table 3-3. Additional AOIs identified
by the historical records reviewed for this PA are as follows:
• Suspected Sanitary Landfill at Fort Custer National Cemetery

• Small Arms Ammunition Shop
• A water supply well located west of the Former Base Hospital
• A well located near the northwestern boundary of the Former FCMR
• A well located in the Former Hill Pumping Station
• Skeet range and trap field,
Table 10-1 lists all of the AOIs identified by USACE, MDEQ, and this PA. It indicates the AOIs
that are potential NDAI areas, a brief narrative justification, and the sections in the report where
the detailed assessments can be found. Table 10-1 also includes the AOIs where potential
hazards may warrant further evaluation; brief discussions of these AOIs are in Section 10.2.
1.2 SUMMARY OF CONCLUSIONS AS RELATED TO POTENTIAL HAZARDS
1.2.1 Munitions
The following AOIs may have potential hazards associated with munitions-related materials (see
Figure 10-1 for AOI locations).
A-77/A-78/Range Complex No. 1 – East/FUDS Project E05MI001311 – Munitions-related

materials have not been found during any of the previous investigations in this AOI. There is
uncertainty on whether some of the ranges (e.g., N/Rocket Launcher Range and
I/Submachine Gun Range) truly existed based on analysis of aerial photographs and the date
on the map depicting the ranges (1958, after the base was no longer an active training facility
for the U.S. Army). However, since the Harts Lake area is now a public park, MEC hazards
need to be better characterized and addressed. A portion of this AOI is not eligible for FUDS
since it was leased by the U.S. Navy from the 1970s to the 1990s.
A-79/Hand Grenade Court and WWI Artillery/FUDS Project E05MI001310 – Munitions-

related materials that have been found at this AOI include (1) an inert Stokes mortar (Parsons
(1997)), (2) ordnance scrap (Parsons 1997), (3) a 76-mm projectile (without fuze) (Shaw
2007b), (4) 3-inch training round (MDNR 2011a), and (5) an unidentified inert artillery shell
(MDNR 2011b). Although no MEC have been found to date, MEC hazards need to be better
characterized and addressed because a segment of a popular FCRA trail (the Green Loop
Trail) is located in this AOI. Previous investigations indicated that MCs are not a concern
(Parsons 1997).
A-80/Bombing Targets/FUDS Project E05MI001313 – Munitions-related materials that have

been found at this AOI include (1) metals scraps from 20 and 100-pound sand/concrete
practice bombs identified as inert (Parsons 1997), (2) a bomb fin (Shaw 2007b), and (3) a
.30-caliber magazine with shell casings from an M1 Garand Rifle. Although no MEC have
been found to date, MEC hazard needs to be better characterized since the area is in a public
park. MC sampling to date have not shown any evidence of contamination however
additional characterization may be warranted given that the AOI is in a wetland.
A-81/Burial Area/FUDS Project E05MI001312 – This AOI corresponds to Eagle Lake.

There are no historical records documenting Eagle Lake as a burial area for the former
FCMR. The name for this AOI is based on the findings of a U.S. Navy shoreline and
underwater survey at Eagle Lake in August 1977 (U.S. Navy 1977). During this survey, inert
Stokes mortars were found in a concentrated area of the lake which the U.S. Navy described
as being indicative of intentional dumping rather than an impact range. No other munitions
related items were found in the lake. White phosphorus and a cylindrical tube believed to be
a remnant of an HVAR were found near the lake shoreline however these were believed to be
associated with one of several HVAR rounds that were stolen from the Air National Guard
stationed at W. Kellogg Airport. Given that the lake is in a public state park, MEC hazard
needs to be better characterized and addressed if required. There is a potential issue with
respect to MC in sediment.
With respect to A-26/ WWII Ordnance Storage Complex/Former Ammo Dump, since this AOI
is not FUDS-eligible, it will be formally referred to an appropriate component through written
notification in accordance with FUDS policy. Copies of all the documents and information
collected about the AOI, including the PA findings, will be attached to the written notification.
Decisions regarding inclusion of this AOI in the MMRP will be made by the component that will
receive responsibility for A-26.
1.2.2 HTRW
The following AOIs may have potential hazards associated with HTRW (see Figure 10-1 for
AOI locations). The summary in Table 10-1 lists the sections in the PA where details are
provided.
A-71/Post Cemetery Dump. None of the historical maps reviewed for this PA depicted this
AOI as a waste disposal site. However, aerial photographs suggest there was activity in this
AOI while the area was owned by the U.S. Army. A field investigation was completed in
2012 and the final report is in preparation.
Sanitary Landfill at Fort Custer National Cemetery. This sanitary landfill was described in a
property appraisal from 1968 (Cannon 1968a). A sketch included with the appraisal report
indicates this to be in an area separate from A-71/Post Cemetery Dump. Aerial photographs
show pathways toward the suspected location of the landfill based on the sketch provided by
the appraisal. Further investigation may be needed to determine the nature of this landfill in
order to evaluate HTRW issues.
P-61/Post Gas Station and Fuel Storage. Previous investigations by EPI (post-DoD owner)
have identified groundwater impacted by benzene above its drinking water criterion. The
extent of contamination above the drinking water criterion as of 1994 was limited to one
monitoring well location; a building extension has been constructed over this well location.
FUDS Project E05MI001305 (EPI Printing) was approved on April 18, 1997 to address
petroleum soil and groundwater contamination on property once utilized as a gas station at
the former FCMR. The intent of the project was to review the previous investigation and FS
reports that had been provided to USACE by EPI. This project was declared No Defense
Action Indicated on May 15, 2008 and closed September 22, 2016, without regulatory
concurrence.
Former Radar Station. Electronic equipment and air filters may have been cleaned using
carbon tetrachloride (prior to 1959) and TCE. According to historical DoD technical
documents (e.g., “Approved Solvents for Cleaning Electronic Equipment”, Technical Order
12-1-6, April 1959, Appendix G), these solvents were to be used in small quantities using
rags. Note that environmental conditions within the Former Radar Station may be potentially
impacted by the VA Hospital Sanitary Landfills located immediately north of the Former
Radar Station (A-50).
Trap Fields and Skeet Range. These ranges were present in 1950. By 1960, housing
structures had been built over the footprint of the ranges. There is a potential for residential
exposure to surface soil, although soil in the former ranges has likely been disturbed during
construction of the housing structures. Potential contaminants associated with the ranges,
lead and PAHs (for the skeet range), are also associated with urban development that has
occurred in and around the footprint of this AOI. Post-DoD development indicates that there
are PRP issues associated with this AOI.
A-40/41/Coal Yard. Soil sampling indicates arsenic concentrations that are below the non-
residential criterion and within the typical range of data reported for naturally occurring
background concentrations in Michigan soils (Michigan Background Soil Survey, MDEQ
2005). However, the Coal Yard is being retained as an AOI because arsenic concentrations in
soil samples exceed the residential criterion for this metal. There are PRP issues at A-40,
which may have been used to store coal for the VA Hospital. Post-DoD developers are
considered PRPs because cinders that were historically used to pave roads in the area as well
as coal remnants could have been dispersed and redistributed by post-DoD road building and
development if these materials were not removed for proper disposal during construction
activities.
1.2.3 CON/HTRW
The following AOIs may have remaining USTs based on historical records that stated the
number of USTs present at these Gas and Oil Stations and the number of documented UST
removals (see Figure 10-1 for AOI locations). The summary in Table 10-1 lists the sections in
the PA where these sites were evaluated.
• A-39 (4660 West Dickman Road) – 2 USTs remaining, 5,000 gallons each
• A-63 (5100 West Dickman Road) - 2 USTs remaining, 5,000 gallons each
• A-74 (5450 West Dickman Road) – 3 USTs remaining, 5,000 gallons each
• P-50 (5994 West Dickman Road) – 3 USTs remaining, 5,000 gallons each
• P-57 (4201 West Dickman Road) – 2 USTs remaining, 10,000 gallons each
1.2.4 Former DoD Structures

Based on the findings of this PA there are no areas of potential concern that involve building
demolition. There are existing buildings onsite that have been beneficially used after property
transfer. Some of these buildings are now vacant.
Several areas of construction debris were observed during the site visit in June 10-13, 2013.
Based on the aerial photographs and the topographic map from 1971, major demolition of Fort
Custer structures occurred between 1967 and 1971/1974. The structures demolished were within
portions of the former FCMR that DoD had declared as excess properties to the GSA in
December 1966 and had been transferred to the State of Michigan, City of Battle Creek, City of
Springfield and ZSH-Custer Development. Thus, DoD was not involved in the major demolition
that occurred between 1967 and 1971/1974. This is consistent with a property appraisal report,
which stated that the City of Battle Creek razed the Fort Custer buildings (Cannon 1968a).
Debris from the BD/DR projects completed in July 1995 by USACE was taken to a landfill. As
such, the construction debris observed during the site visit is not from DoD demolition projects.
Water supply wells other than the well field at A-82 (the River Pumping Station) were
identified in the historical maps reviewed for this PA. No evidence was found for these wells
being used beneficially by subsequent owners. If these wells still exist, abandonment is not
eligible for FUDS (see Section 8).
1.2.5 Consideration for Contribution by Non-DoD Operations

In the following AOIs, there is no evidence of DoD operations resulting in environmental
impacts however potential hazards may be present that are from non-DOD operations. Table 10-
1 provides the sections in the PA report where these AOIs are evaluated.
A-44/Trenches in 1946 aerial. Aerial photograph analysis and a historical map of the Fort
Custer storm water drainage system indicate that the disturbance in this AOI in the 1946
aerial photograph is likely from construction of a storm water drain pipe. There is no
evidence of DoD operations impacting this AOI. Environmental impacts to the swale are
from a documented release that occurred from a post-DoD manufacturing facility.
A-62/Suspected WWI Trench Warfare Area. Detailed maps of Camp Custer did not depict
this AOI as a trench warfare training area. Aerial photograph analysis indicates there was
activity in this AOI when the area was already part of the VA Hospital Complex. Trees
planted in rows observed during the site visit are consistent with landfill operations. A former
VA Hospital foreman confirmed that the area was used for waste disposal.
A-75/Suspected VA Hospital Dump. Aerial photographs from 1938 to 1955 suggest activity
in this area when it was part of the VA Hospital complex. The nature of the apparent activity
in this area is not known. None of the historical maps of the VA Hospital show a dumpsite in
this area.
A-82/River Pumping Station Wells. There is no evidence of releases at this well field from
DoD or post-DoD operations. However, these inactive wells need to be properly abandoned.
There is evidence that the well field was in working order when transferred to the City of
Battle Creek and that it was beneficially used by the City of Battle Creek. A permit was also
found issued by the U.S. Army to the VA for operation of the water supply system from 1966
to 1969. Thus, abandonment would not be eligible for FUDS program support.
In the following AOIs, MMRP, HTRW or CON/HTRW issues associated with historical DoD
operations have not been resolved however evidence was found of non-DOD operations that may
also impact the AOIs. Table 10-1 provides the sections in the PA report where the AOIs are
evaluated.
A-39/Motor Repair Shops, Grease Rack and Gas and Oil Station. This AOI was remodeled
and used by the Job Corps from 1966 to 1969.
A-77/A-78/Range Complex No. 1 – East/FUDS Project E05MI001311. The Michigan

National Guard was using the portion of this AOI northwest of Harts Lake Road.
A-79/Hand Grenade Court and WWI Artillery/FUDS Project E05MI001310. This AOI is
located in the FCRA immediately adjacent to the FCTC. A hand grenade court operated by
the FCTC in 1985 located adjacent to the boundary with FCRA may have had historical
impacts on this AOI.
A-26/WWII Ordnance Storage Area – There is evidence that this ordnance storage area was
used by the Michigan National Guard before the property was transferred to a private
individual in January 1987. This AOI is not eligible for FUDS; responsibility for this AOI is
being transferred to a different DoD component (see Section 10.2.1).
Trap Fields and Skeet Range. - Potential contaminants associated with the ranges, lead and
PAHs (for the skeet range), are also associated with urban development that has occurred in
and around the footprint of this AOI. Post-DoD development indicates that there are PRP
issues associated with this AOI.
Former Radar Station and A-50/Suspected Former Radar Station Demolition Dump/VA
Sanitary Landfills.- Hospital and property appraisals documented the presence of VA
Hospital sanitary landfills in this AOI. Demolition debris from the BD/DR project at the
Former Radar Station completed in July 1995 was taken to a landfill. Thus, the suspected
dumps at A-50 adjacent to and north of the Former Radar Station are not associated with
DoD operations but were used by the VA Hospital.
A-40/41/Coal Yard - There are PRP issues at A-40, which may have been used to store coal
for the VA Hospital. Post-DoD developers are considered PRPs because cinders that were
historically used to pave roads in the area as well as coal remnants could have been dispersed
and redistributed by post-DoD road building and development if these materials were not
removed for proper disposal during construction activities.
The following AOIs are considered potential NDAI sites however evidence was found of non-
DoD operations that may affect conditions at the site. Table 10-1 provides the sections in the PA
report where the AOIs are evaluated.
• P-48 and P-49/Motor Repair Shop, Grease Rack, and Gas and Oil Station – There is
evidence that these AOIs were used by the Michigan National Guard in the 1960s.
• P-65 (Ordnance Shop) and P-68 (Magazine Igloo) – These buildings were remodeled and
used by the Job Corps from 1966 to 1969.
• A-53 and A-54 (Motor Repair Shops, Grease Racks, Wash Racks, Oil Stations) – The
buildings in these AOIs were remodeled by the Job Corps and used from 1966 to 1969.
REVISED PROJECT SUMMARY SHEET
FOR
DERP-FUDS HTRW PROJECT E05MI001302
FEDERAL FACILITIES ID NUMBER MI9799F2253

September 2017
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project was approved in a CEMP-RF memorandum, dated

15 July 1993, and used as a site wide HTRW project. It was focused to test soil and groundwater at
three former ordnance ranges at the Fort Custer Recreation Area (the Fuel Tank Jettison Ordnance
Area, the Hand Grenade Training Area North, and the Hand Grenade Training Area South) and a
former military dump area adjacent to the Fort Custer National Cemetery. Since the physical
location of the cemetery dump area is with the Fort Custer VA Area Property E05MI0006, the
dump area investigation was forwarded to Fort Custer VA Area HTRW project E05MI000603. A
Site Inspection (SI) Report, dated March 1997, recommended no further action (NFA) with respect
to hazardous or toxic waste at the Fuel Tank Jettison Ordnance Area and Hand Grenade Training
Areas. Subsequently, a SI was conducted at motor repair shops at the property (Sites B, EE, GG, II,
and T) in 2008 and 2009, which recommended NFA for each of the respective sites. This INPR
seeks after-the-fact approval for work already performed on these former motor repair shops.
During the 2016 PA investigation, nine additional motor repair shops were identified as Areas of
Interest (AOIs) A-39, P-48, P-49, P-50, A-54, P-57, P-58, A-63, and A-74, and recommended for
NFA for HTRW concerns. However, the final 2016 PA identified CON/HTRW concerns based on
the potential presence of remaining underground storage tanks (USTs) at five of these areas. These
concerns are proposed to be addressed under CON/HTRW Project E05MI001314. Therefore, NFA
and project closeout of E05MI001302 is recommended.
PROJECT ELIGIBILITY: The Fuel Tank Jettison Ordnance Area, the Hand Grenade Training
Area North, and the Hand Grenade Training Area South were identified in the Archives Search
Reports for the former Fort Custer Military Reservation (FCMR). Sites B, EE, GG, II, T, A-39, P-
48, P-49, P-50, A-54, P-57, P-58, A-63, and A-74 have all been identified as former motor repair
shops in use by the DoD during operations at the FCMR.
POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There is no DoD policy that prohibits this after-the-fact project.
PROPOSED ACTIVITIES: After-the-fact approval is requested for Sites B, EE, GG, II, and T
that were investigated under this project without prior approval. It is recommended that remaining
environmental liability be transferred to CON/HTRW Project E05MI001314, which would allow
for NFA and project closeout of this project.
POINTS OF CONTACT: Ms. Nicole Toth, CELRC-PM-PM, (312) 846-5517; Mr. Kevin
(502) 315-6341

(517) 284-5110.
REVISED PROJECT SUMMARY SHEET
FOR
DERP-FUDS HTRW PROJECT E05MI001303

September 2017
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project was approved in a CEMP-RF memorandum, dated 15

July 1993, as a site-wide MMRP investigation to address Munitions and Explosives of Concern
(MEC) or Munitions Constituents (MC) concerns associated with the historical DoD usage of the
property. In accordance with MMRP Realignment Guidance and the 2007 MMRP SI, this project
was revised in 2013 to address the areas known as the Skeet Range and the .22 Range, noted as
Range Complex No.1 (West). The Munitions Response Site Prioritization Protocol (MRSPP)
resulted in “no known or suspected hazard” for the Skeet Range, the .22 Range, and the .50 Caliber
Anti-Aircraft Range. Originally, this project also included a WWII Ordnance Storage Area
identified from historic site maps and aerial photographs. This area was included in an 8.2-acre
transfer to a private individual on 7 January 1987. It has subsequently been determined that this
acreage is ineligible for FUDS due to its transfer after 17 October 1986. The WWII Ordnance
Storage Area will be formally referred to an appropriate component through written notification in
accordance with FUDS policy. This area will not be addressed further under this project. The
project was declared NDAI II in the FUDSMIS on 27 September 2007. The project achieved
closeout on 16 June 2016 with regulatory concurrence. During the PA in 2016, an additional area
within the .22 range boundary was identified in an aerial photograph (1950) that exhibited
properties of a skeet range and trap field (see Figure 4). This skeet range is in addition to the skeet
range named in the project title. This area was not depicted in any historical maps reviewed for the
PA; however, it was considered as part of this project area for this INPR Amendment due to its
location. Since 1950, the area has been paved and developed, both by DoD and subsequent users,
which would have disturbed any evidence of lead or PAHs deposited during range operation. DoD
impacts are not apparent and cannot be discerned from current property conditions; therefore, this
project area is not recommended for further environmental response and this project remains closed.
PROJECT ELIGIBILITY: This project, consisting of 417 acres, is located on historic Fort
Custer property and is outside of those properties still under DoD control. Based upon the foregoing
and other findings of fact, the project area was formerly used by the DoD.
POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There is no DoD policy that prohibits this project.
PROPOSED ACTIVITIES: None.
(502) 315-6341.

(517) 284-5110.
.22 Range
Range Complex
No. 1 (West)
Skeet Range
PROJECT SUMMARY SHEET
FOR
DERP-FUDS CON/HTRW PROJECT NUMBER E05MI001314

September 2017
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project is being proposed to address CON/HTRW concerns

at former motor repair shops designated as A-39, A-63, A-74, P-50, and P-57. The 2016 PA
indicates that there may be USTs remaining at these AOIs. The remaining USTs, if still present,
could present a CON/HTRW concern. There is no evidence in the PA to suggest beneficial use
of the USTs by subsequent owners. Remedial response activities will be conducted in accordance
with applicable laws and regulations to achieve project closeout.
PROJECT ELIGIBILITY: The former motor repair shops were used by the DoD during the
operation of the former Fort Custer Military Reservation (FCMR), prior to the property being
declared excess and transferred. Historical documentation indicates that USTs were used at these
motor repair shops, some of which may still be present on-site.
POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There is no DoD policy that prohibits this project. The
possibility of beneficial use was considered. There is no evidence in the PA to suggest beneficial
use of the USTs by subsequent owners.
PROPOSED PROJECT: CON/HTRW
PROPOSED ACTIVITIES: The project will include all necessary response actions required to
obtain Project Closeout.
POINTS OF CONTACT Ms. Nicole Toth, CELRC-PM-PM, (312) 846-5517; Mr. Kevin
(502) 315-6341.

(517) 284-5110.
A-63
A-74
P-50
A-39
P-57
FOR
DERP-FUDS HTRW PROJECT NUMBER E05MI001315

September 2017
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project is being proposed to address HTRW concerns in the
area designated as the Former U.S. Air Force Radar Station. Historically, carbon tetrachloride
and trichloroethylene were used in small quantities to clean electronic equipment and air filters
in radar stations. Remedial response activities will be conducted in accordance with applicable
laws and regulations to achieve project closeout.
PROJECT ELIGIBILITY: The U.S. Air Force obtained a permit from the VA to use 30 acres
of the 675-acre VA Hospital property for construction of a radar station. This radar station was
part of the Custer Air Force Station, which was operated from the 1950s to the 1960s. The radar
station was removed from service in March 1965, and the permit for the 30 acres was terminated
in June of 1970. The radar station was demolished under FUDS Project E05MI001301 (BD/DR);
work was complete by July 1995. Historically, DoD used carbon tetrachloride and
trichloroethylene to clean electronic equipment and air filters in radar stations. Disposal and
release of these solvents to the ground surface are unknown.
POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There are no policies that prohibit this project.

A large structure currently exists on the area where the radar towers previously existed, which
was constructed after the completion of BD/DR Project E05MI001301. This structure is owned
by VIB, Inc., which is listed as a domestic profit corporation. No other information was available
regarding VIB, Inc.’s general practices.
Additionally, the VA dump area is identified north of and adjacent to the former radar station.
This project will address only potential DoD releases of carbon tetrachloride and
trichloroethylene. If a release originating from VA activity appears to impact or comingle with
any potential DoD release, then activities under this project will be halted and a Potentially
Responsible Party project will be initiated.
PROPOSED ACTIVITIES: The project will be limited to focus on these cleaning agents for
the radar station. Activities will include necessary CERCLA response actions required to obtain
Project Closeout.
POINTS OF CONTACT: Ms. Nicole Toth, CELRC PM-PM, (312) 846-5517; Mr. Kevin
(502) 315-6341.

(517) 284-5110.
Property Number G05OH0013 Page 1/3
FOR
DERP-FUDS HTRW PROJECT NUMBER E05MI001316

September 2017
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project is being proposed to address HTRW concerns in the
area designated as the Former Coal Storage Area. Historical aerial photographs identify potential
coal piles, soil staining, and a former coal dock located southeast of the VA Medical Center. This
area is now divided by Clark Road, which was widened and paved between 1981 and 1992, post-
DoD. The portion east of Clark Road has had additional earthwork, paving and development by
post-DoD users. DoD impacts are not apparent and cannot be discerned from those of subsequent
users; therefore, the portion of the AOI east of Clark Road is excluded from this project area.
The western portion of the AOI exhibited remnants of coal on the surface during the 2013 site
visit conducted for the 2016 PA, and there has been no evidence of post-DoD development. This
project is therefore limited to the undisturbed portion of the AOI identified during the PA (west
of Clark Road). Remedial response activities will be conducted in accordance with applicable
laws and regulations to achieve project closeout
PROJECT ELIGIBILITY: A former DoD coal yard was present east of the project area that
has been paved and developed by post-DoD users. The former coal yard was not included within
the project area as DoD impacts cannot be discerned from those of subsequent users. However,
aerial photographs (1938 – 1967) indicate the presence of coal piles on the surface and residual
staining within the project area, west of the former coal yard. This area has not been disturbed
post-DoD and is therefore eligible for restoration under the FUDS program.
POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There are no policies that prohibit this project.
PROPOSED ACTIVITIES: The project will include all necessary CERCLA response actions
required to obtain Project Closeout.
(502) 315-6341.

(517) 284-5110.
Property Number G05OH0013 Page 1/5

Property Survey Summary For Fort Custer

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Originaltitel

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Property Survey Summary For Fort Custer

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

REVISED PROPERTY SURVEY SUMMARY SHEET

• Michigan National Guard FCTC – 7,523.4 acres

CATEGORY OF HAZARD(S): Building Demolition and Debris Removal (BD/DR);

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The following is a summary of the projects at this property.

E05MI001302 Three Ranges (HTRW) – This project was approved in a CEMP-RF

E05MI001304 Roberts Packaging Company (CON/HTRW) – This project was approved in a

E05MI001305 EPI Printing (HTRW) – This project was approved in a CEMP-RF

E05MI001307 Kellogg Company UST Investigation (CON/HTRW) – This project was

LEAD REGULATOR: Mr. Bill Harmon, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,

Fort Custer Military Reservation

1.1 AREAS OF INTEREST

• Suspected Sanitary Landfill at Fort Custer National Cemetery

1.2 SUMMARY OF CONCLUSIONS AS RELATED TO POTENTIAL HAZARDS

A-77/A-78/Range Complex No. 1 – East/FUDS Project E05MI001311 – Munitions-related

A-79/Hand Grenade Court and WWI Artillery/FUDS Project E05MI001310 – Munitions-

A-80/Bombing Targets/FUDS Project E05MI001313 – Munitions-related materials that have

A-81/Burial Area/FUDS Project E05MI001312 – This AOI corresponds to Eagle Lake.

1.2.4 Former DoD Structures

1.2.5 Consideration for Contribution by Non-DoD Operations

A-77/A-78/Range Complex No. 1 – East/FUDS Project E05MI001311. The Michigan

Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project was approved in a CEMP-RF memorandum, dated

LEAD REGULATOR: Mr. Bill Harmon, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,

Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project was approved in a CEMP-RF memorandum, dated 15

POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There is no DoD policy that prohibits this project.

PROPOSED ACTIVITIES: None.

LEAD REGULATOR: Mr. Bill Harmon, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,

Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project is being proposed to address CON/HTRW concerns

PROPOSED PROJECT: CON/HTRW

LEAD REGULATOR: Mr. Bill Harmon, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,

Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas

POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There are no policies that prohibit this project.

LEAD REGULATOR: Mr. Bill Harmon, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,

Fort Custer Recreation and Industrial Areas

POLICY CONSIDERATIONS: There are no policies that prohibit this project.

LEAD REGULATOR: Mr. Bill Harmon, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,

Das könnte Ihnen auch gefallen