EPA Stops Industrial Discharge and Launches Source Pollution Study in Elizabeth River Tributary

Hillside, N.J. - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investigating industrial pollution in Hillside, New Jersey after receiving a public complaint about an odorous, slimy residue in an Elizabeth River tributary.

"Challenges to our waterways demand immediate attention, and EPA is prepared to act decisively," said EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. "This is a classic example of how a community tip and our partnership with the state can halt pollution in its tracks and help protect the environment." 

In October 2025, after receiving the public complaint, EPA began a series of inspections to examine drainage systems in Hillside and, with support from New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, launched a "track down study," a practice used to sample and track contamination back to its origin. Initial results from the study showed that one of the sources was a fruit and vegetable warehouse belonging to Gargiulo Produce. EPA inspected the facility and issued an order to the company under the Clean Water Act (CWA), requiring it to stop the discharges as well as to obtain and comply with permitting obligations.

During one of its inspections, EPA observed improper drainage systems at Gargiulo Produce that allowed the discharge of food waste and other leachate from an on-site waste compactor into the Hillside municipal separate storm sewer system. EPA issued the administrative order on February 5, 2026, which requires Gargiulo Produce to stop the unauthorized discharge immediately, obtain appropriate permits for industrial stormwater discharges, and develop practices and control measures to ensure ongoing compliance with the CWA. As a result, Gargiulo Produce stopped the discharge and is currently working on longer-term solutions to properly manage its operations and prevent discharges to the river. 

EPA's track down study is currently ongoing and inspections are continuing in order to pinpoint additional sources of pollution contributing to the impacted Elizabeth River tributary. These findings will help EPA determine the next steps.

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