Information Sought on Waste Dumping
State investigators are hoping to determine who dumped oil refinery wastes in pits in Gardena more than four decades ago.
The California Department of Toxic Substances Control is asking people to come forward if they recall the waste dumping at the so-called Gardena Sumps at the southwest corner of Artesia Boulevard and Normandie Avenue. The dumping of petroleum and its byproducts occurred there from 1938 to 1953.
State investigators want to talk to truck drivers who might have hauled the waste to the site, those who witnessed the dumping and those who worked at companies that produced the wastes.
The state already has spent $220,000 for a plastic-nylon temporary cap to cover the wastes, part of the more than $500,000 it has spent at the site.
Eventually, officials hope to remove the wastes so that the site can be developed, said Rich Varenchik, a spokesman for the department.
Those with information about the dumping are urged to call the department or leave a message at any hour at (310) 590-4959. People also can call (310) 590-4913 or (916) 255-2127 collect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. A caller’s identity can be kept confidential.
Or write to: California Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Toxic Substances Control, Site Mitigation Program, Case Development Branch, Attention Roger Vintze, P.O. Box 806, Sacramento 95812-0806.
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