EPA Completes Historic Oil Removal at Dunsmuir Railyard, Restores Sacramento River Shoreline

EPA Removes Oil and Restores Sacramento River Shoreline

Cleanup Achievements

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has completed a major environmental cleanup at the Dunsmuir Railyard in Northern California. The project involved the removal of about 75,000 gallons of oil and roughly 100,000 tons of oil-contaminated soil. This extensive operation addressed pollution that had threatened the nearby Sacramento River ecosystem for decades.

Impact on the Environment

EPA specialists, working alongside state and local partners, restored a critical section of the Sacramento River shoreline impacted by earlier industrial activities. The cleanup helps prevent future oil seepage and supports the recovery of local habitats essential to fish and wildlife species native to the river system.

“This effort marks a major milestone in restoring the health and safety of the Sacramento River corridor,” said an EPA regional administrator.

Long-Term Monitoring

The agency confirmed that long-term monitoring and maintenance will continue to ensure that the restored areas remain safe and resilient. The EPA also emphasized that the success of the cleanup reflects the value of collaboration among federal, state, and community partners.

Context

Dunsmuir Railyard, once a hub for locomotive servicing, experienced multiple spills and leaks that contaminated soils over several decades. The comprehensive cleanup effort has significantly reduced environmental and public health risks while restoring the natural function of the riverbank.

“This project brings new life to an area once marked by industrial damage,” noted local restoration leaders.

Author Summary

EPA’s cleanup at Dunsmuir Railyard removed decades of oil contamination, restored the Sacramento River’s shoreline, and set the stage for long-term ecological recovery.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (.gov) — 2025-11-26