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Honeywell Continues Preparations for Onondaga Lake Dredging and Capping; Community Health and Safety Remains Top Priority |
Progress Continues on Onondaga Lake Cleanup
The Onondaga Lake cleanup is taking shape. More than 500 Central New York scientists, engineers, and skilled craft laborers are working with Honeywell, achieving significant progress implementing lake improvement plans under the jurisdiction of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Activities in 2012 include the start of dredging and placing a new lake bottom, or cap; habitat improvement; and transporting and containing dredged materials. Equipment for lake cleanup operations, including the dredges, is being delivered this spring. Removing underwater debris (old pilings, tires, etc.) and system checks will be performed before dredging operations begin this summer.
Hydraulic dredge that will be used during the Onondaga Lake cleanup.
We have completed the underground barrier wall, which prevents the primary source of contaminated groundwater from former Allied sites from reaching the lake. Groundwater collected is being treated and tested to meet DEC requirements before it is sent to the lake.
Community Health and Safety Plans are reviewed by DEC and the New York State Department of Health.
Progress continues at other sites near the lake. In 2011, work began at Geddes Brook to transform 17 acres of land into a diverse new habitat for wildlife. Wetlands around the old LCP plant in Geddes are now filled with 12,000 native trees and plants that are attracting wildlife.
Work to remediate forested wetlands, enhance stream conditions for fish spawning and migration, and improve habitat along the lower portion of Nine Mile Creek will begin this summer.
Community input has always been, and will continue to be, a key component of Honeywell's efforts to clean up Onondaga Lake. Opportunities for public engagement are critical to achieving a successful, sustainable restoration of the lake. The Community Participation Working Group, which was appointed by DEC, provides a forum to inform, receive input and discuss the lake cleanup.
On this site you will find our Annual Report, documents, project updates, photos, e-newsletters, as well as a link to submit questions or find out how to get involved.
