Evaluating Habitat to Demonstrate Monitored Natural Attenuation

Fuel impacted fine grained media sites are challenging as these projects typically require site characterization with multiple lines of evidence. Remediation is often difficult and demonstrating monitored natural attenuation (MNA) as the optimal solution is also challenging when using only one-dimensional well or direct push data.

Aestus’ GeoTrax CSM+™ process was used to characterize an Arkansas pipeline release site with LNAPL (diesel) still present. The resulting framework of three-dimensional (3D) electrical image data indicated highly varying bioactivity based on the site habitat and was confirmed via laboratory testing. The lithological and hydrogeologic setting for the sites resulted in the site having significant bioactivity immediately after a spill was detected. The results yielded a more accurate and robust conceptual site model (CSM) which provided adequate data for the regulatory community to approve an MNA solution; reflecting the ROI benefit of the ultra-high resolution site characterization.