Phase II Site Investigations and Remediation Services

Whatcom Environmental has extensive experience providing site investigation services to owners and operators of contaminated properties.

The majority of our experience in the Puget Sound Region is focused on properly evaluating sites to determine the presence or absence of subsurface environmental contamination. We perform site assessments at Underground Storage Tank (UST) sites. We have successfully closed a number of UST systems including systems that have been out of service for several years.

We have an extensive inventory of field investigation equipment including a variety of electronic measuring equipment (flame ionization and photoionization detectors) and stainless steel field sampling equipment. We subcontract with several drilling companies for hollow-stem auger drilling and direct-push sampling.

Whatcom Environmental 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 has established the Voluntary Cleanup Program to allow property owners to conduct remedial actions at sites without Ecology oversight. We have assisted a number of clients in performing Voluntary Cleanups. The process requires that the site be investigated and that the extent of soil and/or groundwater contamination be delineated. We characterize site conditions through the collection and analysis of soil and groundwater analytical data. Based on the results of the site investigation, we recommend an appropriate remedial action in accordance with MTCA guidance.

When cleanup actions are completed at the site, we prepare an Independent Remedial Action Report and submit it to Ecology. The report documents the site investigation and remediation. Ecology reviews the report and 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 Ecology.
We specialize 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

Our experience with numerous site remediation projects in the Puget Sound Region provides clients with cost-effective and practical solutions to remedial actions.