Environmental Background
During a site characterization at a nearby facility, several chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) were detected in groundwater samples collected from an onsite supply well. Because no sources of CVOCs were ever present at the facility, a search of nearby properties was conducted. During the search, a former Nike Missile Battery, approximately 600 feet in the apparent upgradient direction (north) of the site, was discovered. Additional investigation was required to determine if the Nike Missile Battery was the source of the CVOCs.
Groundwater Investigation Project Work
Site Characterization
To better define shallow groundwater flow and quality, AGES staff oversaw the installation of four (4) new monitoring wells at the natural gas facility. The monitoring wells were developed and sampled for four (4) quarters. CVOCs were consistently detected in upgradient wells installed at the facility. Based on these results, an upgradient, off-site release was identified as the apparent source of CVOCs detected in groundwater at the site. The original facility was determined not to be the source of the CVOCs.
Off-Site Investigation
AGES staff were then contracted by the USACE to further investigate the CVOC groundwater contamination at both the original facility and the Former Nike Missile Battery. Water levels were collected from monitoring wells at the original facility and the Former Nike Missile Battery to determine groundwater flow direction and any further groundwater relationship between the two (2) facilities. Another round of groundwater samples was collected from the monitoring wells at the natural gas facility. CVOCs were detected in the groundwater samples collected. Further groundwater characterization is scheduled to be conducted at the Former Nike Missile Battery.
Special Project Features
Investigated potential off-site sources of CVOC groundwater contamination to allow for a focused investigation and quicker remedial activities.
