Site Investigation

Vapor Intrusion Pathway Investigation, PacifiCorp Environmental Remediation Company
Modeling of groundwater data from an earlier investigation at the American Barrel Superfund Site indicated a potential risk to some nearby residences from the inhalation of volatile compounds emanating from the ground water. To further evaluate this risk, SAGE conducted a vapor intrusion investigation consisting of soil gas and indoor and outdoor (ambient) air sampling. Based on the data generated by this investigation, there was no clear indication that vapor intrusion was occurring at the residences. Although Benzene was present in soil gas beneath the buildings, modeling of the soil gas data indicated that the predicted concentrations due to vapor intrusion were below levels that would pose a threat to human health. Based on existing studies of background concentrations in both indoor and ambient air, it was determined that the concentrations of Benzene, Toluene and Xylene observed in and around the residences were due to source(s) other than the dissolved phase groundwater plume.

RCRA Facility Investigation, Nucor Steel
SAGE planned and conducted a RCRA Facility Investigation (RFI) at the Nucor Steel recycling/production facility in Plymouth, Utah. The investigation included areas that were contaminated with electric arc furnace (EAF) dust, fertilizer manufactured from EAF dust, or petroleum products. EAF dust is a by-product of steel production that contains high concentrations of lead, cadmium, and chromium. SAGE prepared the RFI Work Plan, participated in developing the Stabilization Measures Work Plan, documented the excavation and disposal of contaminated soils, and conducted all associated soil sampling. We then prepared the RFI report, documenting the results of the multi-year investigation which included a screening level risk assessment. 

Site Investigation, Remediation, Risk Assessment, Box Elder Mosquito Abatement District
As part of evaluating whether to construct a new facility on their current site in Brigham City, Utah or move to a new location, the Box Elder Mosquito Abatement District (BEMAD) retained SAGE to conduct an expanded Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. In addition to the basic Phase I assessment, SAGE also collected and analyzed soil samples that indicated the presence of high concentrations of DDT. BEMAD entered into a voluntary Stipulation and Consent Agreement with the Utah Division of Solid and Hazardous Waste. Under State oversight, SAGE prepared a detailed site investigation plan to identify the nature and extent of contamination in soil and ground water. Due to the extremely high pesticide concentrations in surface soil, special techniques were required to prevent cross-contamination of deeper layers during the sampling. Air rotary methods were used to drill through the alluvial cobble substrate to install ground water monitoring wells.

Ultimately, BEMAD decided to move their operations to a new site, and to remediate and sell the old property. SAGE prepared the bid package for the building demolition and then performed the soil remediation, which included the excavation and off-site disposal of over 2,500 tons of pesticide contaminated soils. We then prepared a human health risk assessment which determined that the property could be used for the residential development planned by the new owner. To fulfill the terms of the Consent Agreement, SAGE prepared a Site Management Plan that included deed restrictions and a ground water monitoring program.