Arconic (ALCOA) Grasse River Superfund Site
Akwesashró:non fished hunted and harvested traditional foods and medicines on both banks of the lower Grasse River, known as the Indian Meadows or Tsi iehontakwáhtha meaning “where the grass is picked.”
Superfund
Since 1980, EPA's Superfund program has helped protect human health and the environment by managing the cleanup of the nation's worst hazardous waste sites and responding to local and nationally significant environmental emergencies. In the late 1970s, toxic waste dumps received national attention when the public learned about the risks to human health and the environment posed by contaminated sites. In response, Congress established the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) in 1980. CERCLA is informally called Superfund. CERCLA is responsible for both Short-term and Long-term remedial response actions.
The Mohawk Territory at Akwesasne is downstream of three Superfund sites that were placed on the National Priority List (NPL) in the early 1990s; Arconic (ALCOA) Grasse River, General Motors (RACER) and Reynolds Metals Superfund sites. SRMT Environment Division has a seat at the decision-making table and provides oversight that ensures cleanup plans are followed and air and water monitoring is conducted to make sure no contaminants are leaking out threatening the environment or community members.
General Motors
Located slightly upstream from the western edge of the Saint Regis Mohawk territory.
Reynolds Metals
The 1,600-acre former Reynolds Metals Facility is located on the St. Lawrence River, near the western edge of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe reservation boundary