Agri-Tech Yakima Steel Fabricators

The Argi-Tech Yakima Steel Fabricators site is a part of the Yakima Railroad Area (YRRA). The Yakima Railroad Area is approximately six square miles in size and includes parts of the cities of Yakima and Union Gap. The Yakima Railroad Area groundwater is contaminated with tetrachloroethylene (PCE or PERC) from past industrial use, and is centered around the railroad/industrial corridor of the greater Yakima area.

PCE is a manufactured chemical that is widely used for dry cleaning of fabrics and for metal-degreasing. It is also used to make other chemicals and is used in some consumer products.

Exposure to PCE can be from the air, chemical use, soil, or water.  PCE can affect the kidneys, liver, nervous system, and reproductive system, as well as unborn children. There is also an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

More information about potential sources of PCE and associated health risks can be found on the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) website.

The 6.24 acre site has been used for several different business since the early 1960's. A farmers supply where fertilizers and pesticides were prepared and stored, a lime a sulfur formulating plant, and a fruit packing supply and equipment company.

Currently, the site is used for steel fabrication. 

Historically, residues, wash water, and other waste products were disposed of in a pit located on the property. 

In 2004 a remedial investigation identified the extent and nature of soil and water contamination at the site. The report described the extent of solvent, pesticide, petroleum, and heavy metal contamination in soil and groundwater at the site.

In 2019, a feasibility study was completed and outlined different options for cleanup. 

The public comment period closed at the end of 2019 and the cleanup plan is being prepared.