SUNY-ESF Assists with Planting Native Grasses, Shrubs, Flowers and Trees on Excavated Material
Material excavated for construction of the third phase of the underground barrier wall will be shaped into oval-shaped hills to recreate natural topography near Harbor Brook. The hills will be planted with native grass seed, shrubs, flowers and trees. The State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry has provided Honeywell with assistance on grading and planting.
To build the third section of the underground wall, Solvay waste and soil had to be removed from the upland side of the wall. Solvay waste is a white, chalky material that came from the production of soda ash and related products. The excavated material was placed in the center of the property on the southeast corner of the lakeshore. It is being graded and covered with a soil/gravel cover and a native seed mixture. This work is anticipated to be completed by mid-March.
Native grasses, shrubs, flowers and trees will start to grow on the hills in the spring. The area surrounding the hills will be planted with low meadow grasses. Several dozen large trees, including Pitch Pines, Red Maples, and American Sycamores will be planted at either end of the hills.
Steel panels to build the third phase of the underground wall will be delivered to the site in early May, and the work is expected to be complete by next fall. The barrier wall, which is being constructed under the supervision of DEC, prevents contaminated groundwater from reaching the lake.
A Community Air Monitoring Program, reviewed by DEC, measures the air during the material relocation. All reports show sample results well below Occupational Safety & Health Administration levels and below action levels required by DEC and the New York State Department of Health.
Individuals interested in more information should contact Honeywell at 315-552-9784.
For more information on the Onondaga Lake cleanup, visit www.onondaga-lake-initiatives.com.
