Site Investigation and Remediation Services

has extensive experience providing site investigation services to owners and operators of contaminated properties. The majority of our experience in Whatcom County has been focused on properly evaluating sites to determine the presence or absence of subsurface environmental contamination. WES performs site assessments at Underground Storage Tank (UST) sites. WES has successfully closed a number of UST systems including systems that have been out of service for several years.

Site investigation field equipment stocked by WES includes a photoionization detector, dissolved oxygen meter, ferrous iron test kit, pH meter, EC meter, oxidation/reduction potential meter, and stainless steel field sampling equipment including hand augers and trowels. WES subcontracts with several drilling companies for hollow-stem auger drilling and direct-push sampling.

WES is experienced with the following field investigation techniques:

• Conceptualizing subsurface and contaminant conditions to adequately focus subsurface investigations
• Selecting and using appropriate drilling and soil sampling techniques, including direct-push equipment
• Classifying, describing, and sampling soils
• Designing and installing groundwater monitoring wells and monitoring systems
• Sampling and monitoring groundwater and soil gas

The Washington Department of Ecology (WDOE) has established the Independent Remedial Action Program (also known as the Voluntary Cleanup Program) to allow property owners to conduct remedial actions at sites without WDOE oversight. WES has assisted a number of clients in performing Independent Cleanups. The process requires that the site be investigated and that the extent of soil and/or groundwater contamination be delineated. WES characterizes site conditions through the collection and analysis of soil and groundwater analytical data. Based on the results of the site investigation, WES recommends an appropriate remedial action in accordance with MTCA guidance.

When cleanup actions are completed at the site, an Independent Remedial Action Report is prepared and submitted to WDOE. The report documents the site investigation and remediation. WDOE then determines if the cleanup actions undertaken at the site are sufficient. The ultimate goal of an Independent Cleanup is to receive a “No Further Action” letter from WDOE.

WES specializes in the following remediation options:

• Soil bioremediation
• Soil removal and disposal at approved treatment facilities
• Soil vapor extraction and bio-venting
• Monitored natural attenuation of groundwater
• Pump and treat systems for groundwater

WES' experience with numerous site remediation projects in Whatcom County provides clients with cost-effective and practical solutions to remedial actions.