Here are a few profiles of environmental consulting projects recently managed by J. Mitsak & Associates.
Brownfields and Voluntary Cleanup Programs
JM&A provided the lead in the successful closure of a former wood treating facility under Virginia’s Voluntary Remediation Program. Work included site characterization of soil, groundwater, surface water and sediments and evaluation using RCRA Corrective Action guidance. The results of the human health and environmental risk assessment, were used to select a remedial strategy that included in situ soil stabilization, stream repairs, and the placing of institutional control (deed restrictions) on the property.
JM&A also assisted two companies with the Maryland Voluntary Cleanup Program, one that was acquiring property for a plant expansion, and one that was evaluating the development of a former naval facility. Both projects included Phase I and Phase II assessments, evaluation using risk and development of Remedial Action Plans. Both projects had public participation requirements as well.
Mandatory Cleanup
JM&A provided technical direction and client contact services for a wood treating facility who experienced regulatory pressure to address off-site groundwater contamination. The project involves site characterization activities, development of source control measures, plume delineation, domestic well sampling and groundwater treatment. Following onsite demonstration testing of a chemical reagent to address chromium, the facility completed several rounds of in situ groundwater treatment. Results have been outstanding and regulatory pressure has been relieved.
Cost Saving Measurements
JM&A conceived, implemented and maintains a program to reduce a manufacturing facility’s sewer bills by measuring flow in the facility’s sanitary sewer mains. The program has been successful in establishing a method recognized by the sanitary authority to serve as the basis for calculating the facility’s sewer bill. Savings are substantial.
Stormwater
Recently, we were approached by a technology company to assist them in developing a new product that would reduce metals in stormwater. JM&A prepared a work plan to conduct two separate demonstrations tests that would provide the company with much needed data. With the cooperation of an important client, we organized and performed the pilot scale testing over a 4 month period. Data evaluations are on-going and the technical objectives of the study seem promising. Next, an evaluation of the cost – benefits of implementing treatment is planned.
JM&A also conducted a series of tests to see if a proprietary chemical could be efficiently applied in an active plant to reduce copper concentrations in stormwater. Two separate methods were employed each showing successful reductions. Assessments are underway to determine the feasibility of applying the treatment approach on a permanent basis.
RCRA Corrective Action Program
JM&A provided the lead to address an active facility and a closed facility located on the same property under a State-lead Corrective Action Program under RCRA. This comprehensive project resulted in the performance of a remedial investigation and feasibility study, environmental indicators determination, hot spot cleanup based on risk, and the closure of the former facility.
The closure plan included demolition of old structures, tanks, and concrete as well as soil and groundwater cleanup. Remedial activities included in situ soil stabilization, in situ biological treatment of groundwater using air sparging and vegetable oil infusion; and in situ treatment of chromium and arsenic in soil and groundwater using two different chemical reagents. The bulk of the work was completed in 2015-16 and select groundwater treatment and monitoring is ongoing.
