Category: Waterbodies & Other Wetlands 
Location: Berry’s Creek is located on the western side of the Hackensack River, running along NJSEA Sports Complex Walden Marsh, Berry’s Creek Marsh, Lyndhurst Landfill, Rutherford Landfill, Bellemeade Mitigation, and Lyndhurst Riverside Marsh. The creek flows through East Rutherford into Rutherford, then along the boundary of Rutherford and Lyndhurst out to the Hackensack River in Bergen County. Berry’s Creek Canal is located to the east of the Hackensack River along the northern boundary of Oritani Marsh in East Rutherford, Bergen County.
Current Land Use: Open Water
Site Description: Berry’s Creek and Berry’s Creek Canal converge just south of the Route 3 Bridge. The canal flows unimpeded, while the creek flows through two degraded culverts located under the Rutherford Landfill haul road and New Jersey Transit Bergen Line. Both are considered to be highly contaminated, with high levels of mercury and other heavy metals found in the sediments. From as early as 1943, F.W. Berk and Co., and then later the Wood-Ridge Chemical Corporation (Velsicol Corporation), were releasing effluent containing substantial levels of mercury into the canal. It is estimated that as much as one to two kilograms of mercury per day were being released from the chemical plant, until it ceased operation in 1974. Although the chemical plants are no longer releasing mercury into the canal, studies have shown that the site is still a source of contamination.
Existing Site-Specific Data Inventory
A. Survey, Maps, and GIS
HMD data exists inclusive of this site. Detailed surveys completed in 1999 and 2000. Other topographic information is available from reports for nearby sites with dates ranging from 1972 to 2000.
B. Real Estate/Ownership
N/A
C. Site History & Land Use
Flood management plan conducted for NJSEA Sports Complex site in 1980.
D. Biological Studies – Fauna
Various bird, fish, invertebrate, and wildlife studies conducted for the creek and surrounding areas dated between 1972 and 1992.
E. Biological Studies – General Environmental
Various general studies for creek and surrounding sites conducted between 1972 and 2001.
F. Geotechnical
Various general studies for creek and surrounding sites conducted between 1972 and 2000.
G. Hydraulics and Hydrology
Flood control survey conducted in 2000; study conducted between 1998 and 2004, including a two-dimensional hydrologic (“child”) model for the creek. Other information is available from reports for nearby sites with dates ranging from 1982 to 2000.
H. Water and Sediments
Abundant water and sediment quality data collected spanning a period from 1971 to 2003.
I. Historical/Cultural Resources
Baseline data collected for the creek and surrounding areas in 1998 as part of Phase 1 investigation.
J. Restoration/Remediation Design Plans
No data obtained.
Site Reports
Site #32 – Berry’s Creek/Berry’s Creek Canal
Category: Waterbodies & Other Wetlands
Location: Berry’s Creek is located on the western side of the Hackensack River, running along NJSEA Sports Complex Walden Marsh, Berry’s Creek Marsh, Lyndhurst Landfill, Rutherford Landfill, Bellemeade Mitigation, and Lyndhurst Riverside Marsh. The creek flows through East Rutherford into Rutherford, then along the boundary of Rutherford and Lyndhurst out to the Hackensack River in Bergen County.
Berry’s Creek Canal is located to the east of the Hackensack River along the northern boundary of Oritani Marsh in East Rutherford, Bergen County.
Current Land Use: Open Water
Site Description: Berry’s Creek and Berry’s Creek Canal converge just south of the Route 3 Bridge. The canal flows unimpeded, while the creek flows through two degraded culverts located under the Rutherford Landfill haul road and New Jersey Transit Bergen Line. Both are considered to be highly contaminated, with high levels of mercury and other heavy metals found in the sediments. From as early as 1943, F.W. Berk and Co., and then later the Wood-Ridge Chemical Corporation (Velsicol Corporation), were releasing effluent containing substantial levels of mercury into the canal. Studies have estimated that as much as one to two kilograms of mercury per day were being released from the chemical plant, until it ceased operation in 1974. Although the chemical plants are no longer releasing mercury into the canal, studies have shown that the site is still a source of contamination.
Existing Site Specific Data Inventory
* – Report repeated under multiple data categories and/or sites.
A. Survey, Maps, and GIS
Relevant survey, mapping, and GIS data for the Meadowlands can be found in the Meadowlands-wide site report under data category A.
1. *BCUA. Bergen County Utilities Authority Resource Recovery Facility: Lyndhurst Site Rezoning Application. 1983. [1a] Rezoning application for Block 231, Lot 11 in Lyndhurst for a resource recovery facility. This application included: 1) a resource recovery technology site feasibility analysis; 2) an environmental analysis; and 3) a planning report. The environmental analysis investigated a water quality report for Berry’s Creek, as well as safety and public health issues. The planning report consisted of topographic map and wetlands inventory.
2. *ERDC, HMDC, & USACE – NYD. Flood Control Survey. 2000. [2a] Survey performed for the HMD that consisted of: 1) cross-sections along the Hackensack River and its major tributaries, including Berry’s Creek, Penhorn Creek, Sack Creek, and the Cayuga Dyke; 2) identifying 30 flood control structures along the Hackensack River; and 3) locating all bridges and piers within the study area. In addition, digital aerials were flown and geo-referenced. The vertical datum for the survey was NGVD29. At 13 of the 30 flood control structures, tide gages and single beam acoustic Doppler current meters were installed and monitored to measure velocity, head difference, and discharge at these locations.
3. *Exponent Environmental Group. Agency Review Draft Phase I Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3. December 1998. [1] Investigation to develop sufficient site characterization information to support informed risk management decisions. Report includes information on surface and subsurface soil, hydrology, leachate/seep sampling, surface water and sediment, wetlands, air, hazardous substances, topography, and cultural resources. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 contain the main body of the report, the appendices, and the final version of the background investigation technical memorandum, respectively.
4. *Exponent Environmental Group. Operable Unit 1 Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3 September 2000. [1] Phase I and I-A site characterizations were completed to identify any additional data needed to support the remedial investigation objectives. Specific objectives of the Phase I and IA investigations included: 1) the identification SoPCs that have been released; 2) the characterization of the transport and fate of SoPCs at the site; 3) the completion of the off site delineation of mercury in surface soils; and 4) the characterization of sediment and surface water quality in the West Ditch.
5. *Jack McCormick & Associates, Inc. Draft Assessment of the Potential Environmental Impact of the Construction and Operation of a New Jersey Sports and Exposition Complex at a Site in Rutherford, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1972. [1a] Draft EIS that evaluated both the onsite and offsite environmental impacts of the construction and operation of the NJSEA’s Sports Complex (Walden Marsh was part of the site). Examined land form/geology, vegetation, wildlife, and water quality at the proposed site. Assessed probable noise, traffic, and air quality impacts. Also includes environmental inventory for the HMD (physiography/geology and vegetation) and the project site (vegetation, wildlife, geology, and water quality).
6. *Paulus, Sokolowski, & Sartor, Inc. Wetland Assessment and Mitigation Plan for Eighty Associates, East Rutherford, NJ Sites. 1988. [1a] Report detailing proposed onsite (two sites) and offsite (third site) freshwater mitigation for fills due to development by Eighty Associates at the first two sites in Rutherford. Used WET to evaluate the existing wetlands and HEP to determine the required mitigation acreages. Proposed mitigation plan included the use of a weir/pump combination to create freshwater marsh.
7. *Rogers Surveying, Inc. Hackensack River Survey: Upper Portion. March 1999. [4] Survey performed for the Operations Division of the USACE-NYD, generated at one-foot contour intervals from the top of the bank to the approximate location of the mean low water line. The survey covered an area along the northwest corner of the junction of the Hackensack River and Berry’s Creek. Vertical datum for the survey was NGVD29.
8. *TAMS Consultants, Inc. Delineation of Waters of U.S. 1992. [1a] Wetland delineation for Block 231, Lot 8 in Lyndhurst for Wilson Associates. USACE 1987 delineation manual was used. No freshwater wetlands were found onsite, but a delineation of the spring high tide mark (3.8-feet) determined the extent of tidal wetlands. Detailed vegetation, soil, and hydrology investigation results were included in the report.
B. Real Estate/Ownership
Not applicable.
C. Site History & Land Use
9. *NJSEA. Flood Management Plan Hackensack Meadowlands District – Volume 2: Summary of Permit to Construct an Embankment and Other Facilities on Berry’s Creek, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1980. [1a] Draft EIS examining the impacts of the proposed embankment and other facilities related to the NJSEA Sports Complex construction along Berry’s Creek, which includes a football stadium, a horse racing facility, and an environment center. Discusses adverse environmental impacts due to the elimination of the Walden Marsh.
D. Biological Studies – Fauna
10. *The Academy of Natural Sciences Benedict Estuaries Research Laboratory & HMDC Environmental Operations Research Laboratory. Interim Report: Accumulation of Chromium in Blue Crabs (Callinectes sapidus) from the Hackensack River, Hudson County, New Jersey. November 1991. [1] Interim report of study (March 1992 study cited with Konsevick as author) designed to characterize the levels of chromium in the claw, body muscle, and hepatopancreas of blue crabs. The samples were collected during three seasonal events at three Hackensack River sites chosen to depict conditions throughout the estuary – Diamond Shamrock, Sawmill Creek, and Berry’s Creek.
11. *Anonymous (HMDC). Biological Water Quality and Field Sampling Survey of the Hackensack Meadowlands. 1980. [1a]During a one-day sampling event, water quality was measured at 11 sites for temperature, salinity, DO, and TSS. Also set fish sampling nets in Berry’s Creek Canal and Sawmill Creek.
12. *Black, I. H. Past and Present Status of the Birds of the Lower Hackensack River Marshes. New Jersey Nature News. 25(2):57-70. 1970. [1a]Describes the highlights of the bird population of the lower Hackensack River marshes between 1961 and 1967. It compares the bird data of 1961-1967 to that of 1969, and also compares the shorebird numbers of 1961-1967 to those found prior to 1936 in the Secaucus and Newark marshes.
13. *Bragin, A. Brett, W. Frame, M. Kraus, D. Smith, A. Goeller, J. Graviec, & E. Konsevick. Inventory of Fisheries Resources of the Hackensack River within the Jurisdictional Boundary of the Hackensack Meadowlands Development Commission from Kearny, Hudson County, to Ridgefield, Bergen County, New Jersey. May 18, 1989. [1] A two-year survey (2/1987 to 12/1988) initiated by HMDC of the lower Hackensack River to ascertain the fisheries values of the river and help guide intelligent decisions on development applications.
14. *EA Science and Technology & PSE&G. Kearny Generating Station Supplemental 316(b) Report. NJDEP. 1988. [1a] Evaluates the effects of the cooling water intake of the Kearny Generating Station on the ecology of the Hackensack River and adjacent waters, based on entrainment and impingement data collected from June 1987 to April 1988, and on biological data collected from the vicinity of the Kearny station since August 1986. Studies of macrozooplankton, ichthyoplankton, and juvenile and adult fish were conducted in vicinity of the station and the full length of the estuary. Includes background information on the Hackensack Estuary.
15. *ERM – Southeast, Inc. Task I: Site Specific Literature Search – Non-Hazardous Matrix Characteristics Part I: Soils and Sediment Characteristics Water Quality and Biological Resources Rare and Endangered Species. April 1985. [1] An update concerning further Task I research conducted by ERM – Southeast, Inc. Incorporates all the Task I site specific literature for determining non-hazardous matrix characteristics for: 1) soil and sediment; 2) water quality; and 3) biota for the Berry’s Creek environmental study.
16. Galluzzi, P. Mercury Concentrations in Muskrats, Ondata zibethicus, from the Hackensack Meadowlands, New Jersey. Fairleigh Dickinson University. 1976. [1a] Muskrats were collected from four locations in the tributaries of the Hackensack River, including Berry’s Creek, and from a control area. Mercury concentrations in the muskrats from each of the sampling sites were compared. Concludes that mercury is not accumulating faster in muskrats in areas of known contamination than those found in natural, uncontaminated areas.
17. HMDC Environmental Operations Laboratory. Berry’s Creek Site Mercury in Biota Monitoring. May 1988. [1] Addresses the quality assurance requirements set forth by NJDEP for work performed in conjunction with a NPL site. The project was an experimental design to determine if intestinal tract contents effect whole fish concentrations of mercury.
18. *Jack McCormick & Associates, Inc. Collections of Aquatic Organisms from the Hackensack Meadowlands, Bergen and Hudson Counties, NJ. 1977. [1a]Study undertaken to obtain a large number of biological samples from the waters and wetlands at eight stations in the central meadowlands. Samples were collected during three days in October 1976. Specimens were identified, labeled, packaged, and frozen. The concentrations of mercury in the samples collected were to be determined at a later date under a separate contract.
19. *Jack McCormick & Associates, Inc. Draft Assessment of the Potential Environmental Impact of the Construction and Operation of a New Jersey Sports and Exposition Complex at a Site in Rutherford, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1972. [1a] Draft EIS that evaluated both the onsite and offsite environmental impacts of the construction and operation of the NJSEA’s Sports Complex (Walden Marsh was part of the site). Examined land form/geology, vegetation, wildlife, and water quality at the proposed site. Assessed probable noise, traffic, and air quality impacts. Also includes environmental inventory for the HMD (physiography/geology and vegetation) and the project site (vegetation, wildlife, geology, and water quality).
20. *Konsevick, Edward. Accumulation of Chromium in Blue Crabs from the Hackensack River, Hudson County, New Jersey. March 1992. [1] Designed to characterize the levels of chromium in the claw, body muscle, and hepatopancreas of blue crabs. The samples were collected during three seasonal events at three Hackensack River sites chosen to depict conditions throughout the estuary – Diamond Shamrock, Sawmill Creek, and Berry’s Creek.
21. *McFarland, Victor A., Charles R. Lee, & Joan U. Clarke (USACE WES). Bioavailability Studies – Phase 1: Mercury Uptake by Killifish and Clams. 1988 [1a] Fish and clams were exposed to different concentrations of suspended sediment in a series of experiments and mercury uptake was measured.
22. Santoro, E. & S. Koepp. Mercury Levels in Organisms in Proximity to an Old Chemical Site (Berry’s Creek, Hackensack Meadowlands, New Jersey). Marine Pollution Bulletin, vol. 17, # 5 pp. 219-224. 1986. [1a] Finfish and crustacea were collected seasonally at 11 sites in and around Berry’s Creek during 1979 and 1980 and analyzed for total mercury. Mummichogs appeared to be a reliable indicator of local mercury contamination. Only infrequent mercury concentrations in excess of US FDA action guidelines were obtained in potentially edible species. No immediate health hazard was indicated.
23. *Weis, Peddick, Judith S. Weis, & John Bogden. Effects of Environmental Factors on Release of Mercury from Berry’s Creek Sediments and Its Uptake by Killifish: Fundulus heteroclitus. Environmental Pollution (Series A) v40. 1986 [1a] Sediments from Berry’s Creek were place in lab aquaria and subject to different treatments in the presence of killifish. Aeration, stirring, salinity, and pH were varied. Fish tissues were analyzed for mercury. Also includes results of field collection/analyzation of fish.
E. Biological Studies – General Environmental
24. *BCUA. Bergen County Utilities Authority Resource Recovery Facility: Lyndhurst Site Rezoning Application. 1983. [1a] Rezoning application for Block 231, Lot 11 in Lyndhurst for a resource recovery facility. This application included: 1) a resource recovery technology site feasibility analysis; 2) an environmental analysis; and 3) a planning report. The environmental analysis investigated a water quality report for Berry’s Creek, as well as safety and public health issues. The planning report consisted of topographic map and wetlands inventory.
25. Burke, D.J., J.S. Weis, & P. Weis. Release of Metals by the Leaves of the Salt Marsh Grasses Spartina alterniflora and Phragmites australis. May 2000. [1] The differential release of metals by smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and the invasive perennial grass common reed (Phragmites australis) were examined in a tributary of Berry’s Creek. It was determined that S. alterniflora can release larger quantities of metals into the marsh environment than Phargmites, through excretion and leaf deposition.
26. *Exponent Environmental Group. Agency Review Draft Phase I Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3. December 1998. [1] Investigation to develop sufficient site characterization information to support informed risk management decisions. Report includes information on surface and subsurface soil, hydrology, leachate/seep sampling, surface water and sediment, wetlands, air, hazardous substances, topography, and cultural resources. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 contain the main body of the report, the appendices, and the final version of the background investigation technical memorandum, respectively.
27. *Exponent Environmental Group. Operable Unit 1 Ecological Risk Assessment Ventorn/Velsicol Site Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. April 2001. [1] Presents the results of the ERA for the site, which is an eight step interactive process among involved parties. As a result of this study, environmentally sensitive areas were identified, described, and mapped according to the N.J.A.C. 7:1E-4.10 guidance.
28. *Jack McCormick & Associates, Inc. Draft Assessment of the Potential Environmental Impact of the Construction and Operation of a New Jersey Sports and Exposition Complex at a Site in Rutherford, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1972. [1a] Draft EIS that evaluated both the onsite and offsite environmental impacts of the construction and operation of the NJSEA’s Sports Complex (Walden Marsh was part of the site). Examined land form/geology, vegetation, wildlife, and water quality at the proposed site. Assessed probable noise, traffic, and air quality impacts. Also includes environmental inventory for the HMD (physiography/geology and vegetation) and the project site (vegetation, wildlife, geology, and water quality).
29. *NJSEA. Flood Management Plan Hackensack Meadowlands District – Volume 2: Summary of Permit to Construct an Embankment and Other Facilities on Berry’s Creek, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1980. [1a] Draft EIS examining the impacts of the proposed embankment and other facilities related to the NJSEA Sports Complex construction along Berry’s Creek, which includes a football stadium, a horse racing facility, and an environment center. Discusses adverse environmental impacts due to the elimination of the Walden Marsh.
30. *Paulus, Sokolowski & Sartor, Inc. Wetland Assessment and Mitigation Plan for Eighty Associates, East Rutherford, NJ Sites. 1988. [1a] Report detailing proposed onsite (two sites) and offsite (third site) freshwater mitigation for fills due to development by Eighty Associates at the first two sites in Rutherford. Used WET to evaluate the existing wetlands and HEP to determine the required mitigation acreages. Proposed mitigation plan included the use of a weir/pump combination to create freshwater marsh.
31. *TAMS Consultants, Inc. Delineation of Waters of U.S. 1992. [1a] Wetland delineation for Block 231, Lot 8 in Lyndhurst for Wilson Associates. USACE 1987 delineation manual was used. No freshwater wetlands were found onsite, but a delineation of the spring high tide mark (3.8-feet) determined the extent of tidal wetlands. Detailed vegetation, soils, and hydrology investigation results were included in the report.
32. *Turner, Joe. Chromium Concentrations in the Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus): An Independent Study Project Conducted at the Hackensack Meadowlands Environmental Research Laboratory. May 1990. [1] Blue crabs were analyzed for total chromium concentrations to determine extent of contamination. The NJDEP and the HMDC supplied samples collected over a two year period from the Hackensack River near the Laurel Hill, from Sawmill Creek, and from Berry’s Creek Canal.
33. Windham, Lisamarie, Judith S. Weis, and Peddrick Weis. Patterns and Processes of Mercury Release from Leaves of Two Dominant Salt Marsh Macrophytes, Phragmites australis and Spartina alterniflora. December 2001. [1] A sampling event conducted off of a tributary of Berry’s Creek between late May and late July, it was determined that leaves of smooth cordgrass (S. alterniflora) consistently releases two to three times more Hg than leaves of common reed (Phragmites australis). This study also revealed many other facts pertaining to the release of Hg from these plants during the time period of the testing.
F. Geotechnical
34. *BCUA. Bergen County Utilities Authority Resource Recovery Facility: Lyndhurst Site Rezoning Application. 1983. [1a] Rezoning application for Block 231, Lot 11 in Lyndhurst for a resource recovery facility. This application included: 1) a resource recovery technology site feasibility analysis; 2) an environmental analysis; and 3) a planning report. The environmental analysis investigated a water quality report for Berry’s Creek, as well as safety and public health issues. The planning report consisted of topographic map and wetlands inventory.
35. *Dames & Moore. Final Project Operations Plan, Remedial Investigation, Scientific Chemical Processing Site, Carlstadt Township, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1987. [1a] A seven page section gives a brief description of this superfund site, including site history and environmental characteristics. The remainder of the document is a work plan for a remedial investigation.
36. *ERM – Southeast, Inc. Task I: Site Specific Literature Search – Non-Hazardous Matrix Characteristics Part I: Soils and Sediment Characteristics Water Quality and Biological Resources Rare and Endangered Species. April 1985. [1] An update concerning further Task I research conducted by ERM – Southeast, Inc. Incorporates all the Task I site specific literature for determining non-hazardous matrix characteristics for: 1) soil and sediment; 2) water quality; and 3) biota for the Berry’s Creek environmental study.
37. *Exponent Environmental Group. Agency Review Draft Phase I Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3. December 1998. [1] Investigation to develop sufficient site characterization information to support informed risk management decisions. Report includes information on surface and subsurface soil, hydrology, leachate/seep sampling, surface water and sediment, wetlands, air, hazardous substances, topography, and cultural resources. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 contain the main body of the report, the appendices, and the final version of the background investigation technical memorandum, respectively.
38. *Exponent Environmental Group. Operable Unit 1 Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3 September 2000. [1] Phase I and I-A site characterizations were completed to identify any additional data needed to support the remedial investigation objectives. Specific objectives of the Phase I and IA investigations included: 1) the identification SoPCs that have been released; 2) the characterization of the transport and fate of SoPCs at the site; 3) the completion of the off site delineation of mercury in surface soils; and 4) the characterization of sediment and surface water quality in the West Ditch.
39. *Jack McCormick & Associates, Inc. Draft Assessment of the Potential Environmental Impact of the Construction and Operation of a New Jersey Sports and Exposition Complex at a Site in Rutherford, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1972. [1a] Draft EIS that evaluated both the onsite and offsite environmental impacts of the construction and operation of the NJSEA’s Sports Complex (Walden Marsh was part of the site). Examined land form/geology, vegetation, wildlife, and water quality at the proposed site. Assessed probable noise, traffic, and air quality impacts. Also includes environmental inventory for the HMD (physiography/geology and vegetation) and the project site (vegetation, wildlife, geology, and water quality).
40. *TAMS Consultants, Inc. Delineation of Waters of U.S. 1992. [1a] Wetland delineation for Block 231, Lot 8 in Lyndhurst for Wilson Associates. USACE 1987 delineation manual was used. No freshwater wetlands were found onsite, but a delineation of the spring high tide mark (3.8-feet) determined the extent of tidal wetlands. Detailed vegetation, soils, and hydrology investigation results were included in the report.
G. Hydraulics and Hydrology
41. *Bertolotti, Benjamin J. Chemical Oxygen Demand Interference in the Stormwater Collection System of the Meadowlands Sport Complex. 1990. [1] Analyzed Berry’s Creek for exceedence of permit levels of organic and inorganic pollutants at the discharge point of the stormwater collection system for the Meadowlands Sports Complex. The system consists of four retention basins that trap runoff from the facility’s parking lots. Pumping action moves the water through the system, eventually discharging into Berry’s Creek.
42. *Dames & Moore. Final Project Operations Plan, Remedial Investigation, Scientific Chemical Processing Site, Carlstadt Township, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1987. [1a] A seven page section gives a brief description of this superfund site, including site history and environmental characteristics. The remainder of the document is a work plan for a remedial investigation.
43. *ERDC, HMDC, & USACE – NYD. Flood Control Survey. 2000. [2a] Survey performed for the HMD that consisted of: 1) cross-sections along the Hackensack River and its major tributaries, including Berry’s Creek, Penhorn Creek, Sack Creek, and the Cayuga Dyke; 2) identifying 30 flood control structures along the Hackensack River; and 3) locating all bridges and piers within the study area. In addition, digital aerials were flown and geo-referenced. The vertical datum for the survey was NGVD29. At 13 of the 30 flood control structures, tide gages and single beam acoustic Doppler current meters were installed and monitored to measure velocity, head difference, and discharge at these locations.
44. *ERDC & USACE – NYD. The Hackensack Meadowlands Flood Control Study. 1998 – 2004 (On-going). [2a] Undertaken to develop a numerical hydraulic model of the Hackensack River and its associated tidal marshes and channels. A parent model (one-dimensional hydrologic) is being developed for the Hackensack River Basin, while child models (two-dimensional hydrologic) are being developed for Berry’s Creek, Penhorn Creek, Sack Creek, and the Cayuga Dyke. The study also includes the evaluation of the performance of proposed flood control structures and restored wetland areas with respect to flood elevations, as well as the effects of optimum maintenance on existing flood control structures.
45. *Exponent Environmental Group. Agency Review Draft Phase I Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3. December 1998. [1] Investigation to develop sufficient site characterization information to support informed risk management decisions. Report includes information on surface and subsurface soil, hydrology, leachate/seep sampling, surface water and sediment, wetlands, air, hazardous substances, topography, and cultural resources. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 contain the main body of the report, the appendices, and the final version of the background investigation technical memorandum, respectively.
46. *Exponent Environmental Group. Operable Unit 1 Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3 September 2000. [1] Phase I and I-A site characterizations were completed to identify any additional data needed to support the remedial investigation objectives. Specific objectives of the Phase I and IA investigations included: 1) the identification SoPCs that have been released; 2) the characterization of the transport and fate of SoPCs at the site; 3) the completion of the off site delineation of mercury in surface soils; and 4) the characterization of sediment and surface water quality in the West Ditch.
47. *Galluzzi, Paul F. (HMDC). An Investigation of the Net Downstream Movement of Mercury on Suspended Sediment in Berry’s Creek, East Rutherford, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1982 [1a] Collected samples in Berry’s Creek over eight tidal cycles measuring temperature, DO, salinity, velocity, suspended sediment, and mercury in water and on sediment.
48. HMDC Environmental Operations Laboratory. Mercury Concentrations in Surface Waters of Berry’s Creek. 1988. [1] Presents data collected from November 1987 to January 1988 in Berry’s Creek. Physical parameters observed include: tide level, temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. Concentrations of Hg were also analyzed.
49. *Konsevick, Edward. Sediment Geochemistry of the Hackensack Meadowlands: A Survey of Research Conducted in the Hackensack River Estuary. 1991. [1] Survey undertaken to show how this mixed estuary, where there is little riverwater input and tidal influence dominates circulation, functions in terms of particle associated pollutants in sediment. The papers reviewed cover the entire reach of the Lower Hackensack River and one of its major tributaries, Berry’s Creek.
50. *Mattson, C., G. Potera, & M.E. Saks. Water Quality in a Disordered Ecosystem: A Report on the Water Quality Monitoring Study Performed in the Hackensack Meadowlands between June and September 1971. 1971. [1a] Part of a natural resource inventory on which to base future land use decisions and against which to make future comparisons. Chemistry and water quality were measured at 11 sites, including Berry’s Creek, Penhorn Creek, Losen Slote Creek, Bellman’s Creek, Moonachie Creek, Mill Creek, and the Hackensack River.
51. *NJSEA. Flood Management Plan Hackensack Meadowlands District – Volume 2: Summary of Permit to Construct an Embankment and Other Facilities on Berry’s Creek, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1980. [1a] Draft EIS examining the impacts of the proposed embankment and other facilities related to the NJSEA Sports Complex construction along Berry’s Creek, which includes a football stadium, a horse racing facility, and an environment center. Discusses adverse environmental impacts due to the elimination of the Walden Marsh.
52. *PTI Environmental Services. Agency Review Draft: Background Investigation Technical Memorandum for the Wood-Ridge Site RI/FS, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. July 1997. [1] BITM summarizing currently available information about the Wood-Ridge NPL site and establishing the starting point for further work to be conducted in RI/FS. Gives specific information with regard to the surface water hydrology of Berry’s Creek and primarily focuses on possible contaminations to Berry’s Creek from the Wood-Ridge site or off-site and the role of Berry’s Creek in the transport of these contaminations.
53. *TAMS Consultants, Inc. Delineation of Waters of U.S. 1992. [1a] Wetland delineation for Block 231, Lot 8 in Lyndhurst for Wilson Associates. USACE 1987 delineation manual was used. No freshwater wetlands were found onsite, but a delineation of the spring high tide mark (3.8-feet) determined the extent of tidal wetlands. Detailed vegetation, soils, and hydrology investigation results were included in the report.
H. Water and Sediments
54. *Anonymous (HMDC). Biological Water Quality and Field Sampling Survey of the Hackensack Meadowlands. 1980. [1a]During a one-day sampling event, water quality was measured at 11 sites for temperature, salinity, DO, and TSS. Also set fish sampling nets in Berry’s Creek Canal and Sawmill Creek.
55. Battelle. Effect of Acid Rain on the Leaching and Bioavailability of Heavy Metals in Contaminated Coastal Wetlands. 1981 [1a] Grant proposal submitted to the USEPA containing data tables of sediment chemistry, taken from other sources. One table has Hg, Cu, Cr, and Cd concentrations in sediment from upper Berry’s Creek.
56. *BCUA. Bergen County Utilities Authority Resource Recovery Facility: Lyndhurst Site Rezoning Application. 1983. [1a] Rezoning application for Block 231, Lot 11 in Lyndhurst for a resource recovery facility. This application included: 1) a resource recovery technology site feasibility analysis; 2) an environmental analysis; and 3) a planning report. The environmental analysis investigated a water quality report for Berry’s Creek, as well as safety and public health issues. The planning report consisted of topographic map and wetlands inventory.
57. *Bertolotti, Benjamin J. Chemical Oxygen Demand Interference in the Stormwater Collection System of the Meadowlands Sport Complex. 1990. [1] Analyzed Berry’s Creek for exceedence of permit levels of organic and inorganic pollutants at the discharge point of the stormwater collection system for the Meadowlands Sports Complex. The system consists of four retention basins that trap runoff from the facility’s parking lots. Pumping action moves the water through the system, eventually discharging into Berry’s Creek.
58. Dames & Moore. Data Summaries, SCP Site. 1988. [1a] Data summaries of soil, water and sediments related to the Remedial Investigation, Scientific Chemical Processing Site.
59. *ERM – Southeast, Inc. Task I: Site Specific Literature Search – Non-Hazardous Matrix Characteristics Part I: Soils and Sediment Characteristics Water Quality and Biological Resources Rare and Endangered Species. April 1985. [1] An update concerning further Task I research conducted by ERM – Southeast, Inc. Incorporates all the Task I site specific literature for determining non-hazardous matrix characteristics for: 1) soil and sediment; 2) water quality; and 3) biota for the Berry’s Creek environmental study.
60. ERT. Draft Stream Channel Sediment Sampling Plan: Revision 2 – UOP Site, East Rutherford, NJ. April 1987. [1] Describes the sampling requirements for: 1) onsite, offsite, and Berry’s Creek sediments; 2) the samples to be collected from the marshlands adjacent to Ackerman’s Creek; and 3) the analytical laboratory requirements for the samples.
61. *Exponent Environmental Group. Agency Review Draft Phase I Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3. December 1998. [1] Investigation to develop sufficient site characterization information to support informed risk management decisions. Report includes information on surface and subsurface soil, hydrology, leachate/seep sampling, surface water and sediment, wetlands, air, hazardous substances, topography, and cultural resources. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 contain the main body of the report, the appendices, and the final version of the background investigation technical memorandum, respectively.
62. *Exponent Environmental Group. Operable Unit 1 Ecological Risk Assessment Ventorn/Velsicol Site Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. April 2001. [1] Presents the results of the ERA for the site, which is an eight step interactive process among involved parties. As a result of this study, environmentally sensitive areas were identified, described, and mapped according to the N.J.A.C. 7:1E-4.10 guidance.
63. *Exponent Environmental Group. Operable Unit 1 Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. Volumes 1-3 September 2000. [1] Phase I and I-A site characterizations were completed to identify any additional data needed to support the remedial investigation objectives. Specific objectives of the Phase I and IA investigations included: 1) the identification SoPCs that have been released; 2) the characterization of the transport and fate of SoPCs at the site; 3) the completion of the off site delineation of mercury in surface soils; and 4) the characterization of sediment and surface water quality in the West Ditch.
64. *Galluzzi, Paul F. (HMDC). An Investigation of the Net Downstream Movement of Mercury on Suspended Sediment in Berry’s Creek, East Rutherford, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1982 [1a] Collected samples in Berry’s Creek over eight tidal cycles measuring temperature, DO, salinity, velocity, suspended sediment, and mercury in water and on sediment.
65. Gambrell, R.P, H. Ghane, J. Weispape, R.D. Delaune, & W.H. Patrick, Jr. Factors Affecting Mercury Transformations and Migration in Berry’s Creek. 1989. [1] Examined how changes in selected physicochemical parameters of the Berry’s Creek sediment-water system may affect chemical transformations controlling release of excess metals that are present.
66. Goeller, Arthur. Heavy Metals and Radionuclides in Sediments of The Hackensack River, NJ. Rutgers University. 1989. [1a] Vertical distribution of Cr, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cu, and Ni was determined for 12 sediment cores taken along the main channel of the Hackensack River, as well as in creeks, including Berry’s Creek. Each core was dated via Be7 and Cs137.
67. *Gunawardana, Vajira K., Po-Shu Huang, Tavit O. Najarian, & Rhomaios V. Ram. Impact Analysis of Sewage Treatment Plant Discharges of the Water Quality of the Lower Hackensack River. June 1992. [1] Analyzed the impacts of discharge from BCUA treatment plant on the dissolved oxygen regime of the lower Hackensack River. The three tributaries that were selected for this study were Sawmill Creek, Berry’s Creek, and Mill Creek.
68. HMDC Environmental Operations Laboratory. Mercury Concentrations in Surface Waters of Berry’s Creek. 1988. [1] Presents data collected from November 1987 to January 1988 in Berry’s Creek. Physical parameters observed include: tide level, temperature, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. Concentrations of Hg were also analyzed.
69. *Jack McCormick & Associates, Inc. Draft Assessment of the Potential Environmental Impact of the Construction and Operation of a New Jersey Sports and Exposition Complex at a Site in Rutherford, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1972. [1a] Draft EIS that evaluated both the onsite and offsite environmental impacts of the construction and operation of the NJSEA’s Sports Complex (Walden Marsh was part of the site). Examined land form/geology, vegetation, wildlife, and water quality at the proposed site. Assessed probable noise, traffic, and air quality impacts. Also includes environmental inventory for the HMD (physiography/geology and vegetation) and the project site (vegetation, wildlife, geology, and water quality).
70. *Konsevick, Edward. Sediment Geochemistry of the Hackensack Meadowlands: A Survey of Research Conducted in the Hackensack River Estuary. 1991. [1] Survey undertaken to show how this mixed estuary, where there is little riverwater input and tidal influence dominates circulation, functions in terms of particle associated pollutants in sediment. The papers reviewed cover the entire reach of the Lower Hackensack River and one of its major tributaries, Berry’s Creek.
71. *Konsevick, Edward, Christine Cheng Hobble, & Paul Lupini. Monitoring Effects of Urban Land Use of Esturine Water Quality, Hackensack Meadowlands District, New Jersey. November 1994. [1] In 1993, the USGS, in cooperation with the HMDC, established a network of 14 ambient water monitoring sites, including the Hackensack River, Berry’s Creek, Penhorn Creek, Sawmill Creek, Mill Creek, and Cromakill Creek, to characterize the current status of water quality in the HMD. Salinity, DO, fecal coliform, pH, TSS, turbidity, total phosphorous, ammonia, sulfate, BOD, COD, heavy metal concentrations were measured at each of the monitoring sites.
72. McFarland. Sediment Characterization: Berry’s Creek, Original Material. August, 1987. [1] Original sediment material for Berry’s Creek received from USACE-WES for chemical transformation studies was characterized for a number of properties. Additional sediment material was received from USACE-WES, which provided a second sampling similar to the original samples to be used in bioassay studies.
73. *McFarland, Victor A., Charles R. Lee, & Joan U. Clarke (USACE WES). Bioavailability Studies – Phase 1: Mercury Uptake by Killifish and Clams. 1988 [1a] Fish and clams were exposed to different concentrations of suspended sediment in a series of experiments and mercury uptake was measured.
74. *NJSEA. Flood Management Plan Hackensack Meadowlands District – Volume 2: Summary of Permit to Construct an Embankment and Other Facilities on Berry’s Creek, Bergen County, New Jersey. 1980. [1a] Draft EIS examining the impacts of the proposed embankment and other facilities related to the NJSEA Sports Complex construction along Berry’s Creek, which includes a football stadium, a horse racing facility, and an environment center. Discusses adverse environmental impacts due to the elimination of the Walden Marsh.
75. *PTI Environmental Services. Agency Review Draft: Background Investigation Technical Memorandum for the Wood-Ridge Site RI/FS, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey. July 1997. [1] BITM summarizing currently available information about the Wood-Ridge NPL site and establishing the starting point for further work to be conducted in RI/FS. Gives specific information with regard to the surface water hydrology of Berry’s Creek and primarily focuses on possible contaminations to Berry’s Creek from the Wood-Ridge site or off-site and the role of Berry’s Creek in the transport of these contaminations.
76. Sabounjian, E. & P. Galluzi. The Distribution of Mercury Contamination in Marsh Sediments, Channel Sediments, and Surface Waters of the Hackensack Meadowlands, New Jersey. 1980. [1a] Sediment cores to a depth of 18 inches and surface water were sampled at 42 sites throughout the HMD, including Eight Day Swamp and Berry’s Creek. Mercury contamination was compared among marsh sediments, channel sediments, and surface waters, as well as along different points downstream of a former mercury processing facility. Contamination between marshes removed from tidal influence and those close to watercourses was also compared.
77. Schaefer, J., T. Cardona-Merek, K. Ellickson, J. Yagi, T. Barkay, & J. Reinfelder. Mercury Contamination in Berry’s Creek and Downstream Ecosystem. Abstracts of the Meadowlands Symposium. 2003. [1a] Gradients in total Hg and MM concentrations were observed at Berry’s Creek, Berry’s Creek Canal, and the Hackensack River. These measurements were compared to measurements taken at three sites within Berry’s Creek Canal to determine if there was a difference in Hg and MM levels along the length of Berry’s Creek and Berry’s Creek Canal.
78. *Weis, Peddick, Judith S. Weis, & John Bogden. Effects of Environmental Factors on Release of Mercury from Berry’s Creek Sediments and Its Uptake by Killifish: Fundulus heteroclitus. Environmental Pollution (Series A) v40. 1986 [1a] Sediments from Berry’s Creek were place in lab aquaria and subject to different treatments in the presence of killifish. Aeration, stirring, salinity, and pH were varied. Fish tissues were analyzed for mercury. Also includes results of field collection/analyzation of fish.
I. Historical/Cultural Resources
79. *Exponent Environmental Group. Agency Review Draft; Phase I Remedial Investigation Report: Ventron/Velsicol Site, Wood-Ridge/Carlstadt, New Jersey, Volumes 1-3 December 1998. [1] Investigation to develop sufficient site characterization information to support informed risk management decisions for the site. This includes information on surface and subsurface soil, hydrology, leachate/seep sampling, surface water and sediment, wetlands, air, hazardous substances, topography, and cultural resources. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 contain the main body of the report, the appendices, and the final version of the background investigation technical memorandum, respectively.
J. Restoration/Remediation Design Plans
No data obtained.
K. Bibliographic Updates
Site #32: Berry’s Creek
Site #32: Berry’s Creek Canal
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