TEN MILE DRAIN INVESTIGATION
In 2001, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)
contamination was discovered in the 10 Mile/Lange/Revere
canals, which were slated to be dredged to allow for
improved boat access for the local residents. The U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in cooperation with
the City of St. Clair Shores, Macomb County and the
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ)
tracked the contamination back to the Ten Mile Drain storm
sewer, which captures storm water from the area generally
bordered by Jefferson Ave., Harper Ave., Bon Brae St. and
10 Mile Rd. In a subsequent clean-up effort, the EPA
removed 24,000 tons of contaminated sediment from the
storm drains and canals in 2002 and 2003.
Post clean-up monitoring of the area
revealed that PCBs continued to enter the storm drains and
canals. Soil sampling results further indicated that the
utility corridor, which houses the Ten Mile Drain, and
several residential properties were also contaminated with
PCBs. As a result, in 2006 the EPA and MDEQ removed
surface soils that exceeded the state’s direct contact
criterion and lined the drain to prevent further migration
of the PCBs into the drain and canals.
In 2007, the city, county and MDEQ
began monitoring the effectiveness of the liner and
conducting interim remedial measures to address the
contamination within the drain. Concurrently, the MDEQ is
conducting a complete assessment of the drainage area to
determine if further remediation efforts are eligible for
additional federal funding.
Historical reports and updates on this
effort can be found in the project repository located at
the St. Clair Shores Public Library and at the links
below.
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