Chemical Pollution, Love Canal

“In 1942, the property was used by Hooker Electrochemical (Hooker Chemicals and Plastics) for disposal of over 21,000 tons of various chemical wastes, including pesticides and dioxin. Dumping ceased in 1952, and in 1953, the landfill was covered…Afterwards, the area near the covered landfill was extensively developed, including the construction of an elementary school and many homes. Complaints about odors and residues were first reported at the site during the 1960's, and increased in the 1970's as the water level rose, bringing contaminated ground water to the surface…Approximately 950 families were evacuated from a 10-square-block area surrounding the landfill.  The contamination at the site ultimately led to the passage of Federal Superfund legislation.”