US NAVAL WEAPONS STA
The Yorktown Naval Weapons Station (WPNSTA) is a 10,624 acre facility located on the Virginia Peninsula in York and James City Counties and in the City of Newport News. WPNSTA was established in 1918, with the primary mission of providing ordnance, technical support and related ordnance services to sustain the war fighting capabilities of the armed services in support of national military strategies. In 1992, WPNSTA was placed on the National Priority List (NPL) because 19 sites were identified as past disposal or storage areas for materials that contain hazardous substances. These contaminants include acids, asbestos, explosives, cadmium, lead, mercury, nickel, paint thinners, solvents, varnishes, waste oil, and polychlorinated biphenyls. A portion of the Navy's nuclear arsenal was also stored and maintained at the facility. WPNSTA is also a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act permitted facility. The proximity of the site to two major tidal tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay demonstrates the potential impact the site could have on the aquatic environment. Contaminant migration to both the York and James River, which are both used for recreation, fishing, and wildlife habitat, is a concern to the community. The on-base population includes 3,200 military personnel and civilians as well as 47 housing units. The WPNSTA also shares its eastern boundary with the Yorktown Colonial National Historic Park. Site Responsibility This site is being addressed through federal actions.
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