We provide environmental assessment and hydrogeologic investigation services to industrial companies, real estate developers, and public agencies. This is a core specialty of SHA, and supports many of our service areas. Our projects range from Phase I ASTM Environmental Site Assessments to multi-year Superfund Remedial Investigations/Feasibility Studies. Examples of the services provided include:
Property Transfer/Due Diligence Investigations Hydrologic and Environmental Investigations CERCLA (Superfund) Studies RCRA Studies TCSA Studies Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP) Studies Connecticut Transfer Act Studies Ohio Voluntary Action Program (VAP) Studies Regulatory File Reviews Water Supply Studies Vapor Intrusion/Indoor Air Assessments Manufactured Gas Plant Site Investigations Pump Testing Groundwater and Soil Sampling Soil Gas Sampling In-situ Permeability Testing Sediment and Surface Water Sampling Stormwater Recharge Studies and Designs Environmental Permit Assistance
Our hydrogeologic studies may be focused on water supply, wastewater disposal, storm water infiltration, landfill leachate control, or hazardous waste characterization and remediation. We have completed hydrogeologic and environmental investigations throughout the USA and Canada, as well as in Europe, Asia, and South America. In many instances our initial investigation is part of the due diligence process prior to a property transfer. In those instances where an environmental concern is identified we then work with the Client through the applicable regulatory process. We have experience with successful completion of such investigations including complex, multi-site industrial transactions where the total property value approaches $1.0 billion.

Property Transfer Act Consulting Services Three Manufacturing Facilities - Connecticut

SHA was retained to provide Connecticut Property Transfer Act consulting services for three printed circuit board manufacturing facilities located in Connecticut. The work is being performed in support of and subsequent to a Form III and Environmental Condition Assessment Form (ECAF) filing. Site assessment activities have included identification of Substances of Concern (SOCs) and Areas of Concern (AOCs), evaluation of potential AOCs through collection of soil, groundwater, soil vapor and surface water samples, and delineation of the nature and extent of each confirmed AOC. The primary SOCs include metals, chlorinated solvents and petroleum hydrocarbons. At one of the facilities, a Remedial Action Plan that includes excavation of impacted soil is currently being developed and implemented. For the other two sites, Phase III investigations and possible interim remedial measures, including a groundwater extraction system in connection with the facility's existing wastewater treatment system, are currently planned.

Characterization and Remediation of a Former Dry Cleaning Facility Retail Redevelopment - Connecticut

SHA initiated site assessment activities at the Site as part of environmental due diligence services in support of our client's possible acquisition of the Site. These initial efforts indicated that a release of PCE from a then-operating on-Site dry cleaning facility had impacted soil and groundwater quality in a portion of the Site. Source characterization efforts indicated the presence of elevated PCE concentrations beneath much of the footprint of the former dry cleaning facility. As such, a remedial soil excavation was undertaken during site redevelopment under the direction of a SHA LEP using RSR criteria as cleanup objectives. The excavation removed about 335 tons of PCE-impacted soils from above the groundwater table to limit the potential for further degradation of groundwater quality. Confirmatory soil sampling and analyses indicated residual PCE concentrations in soil were below applicable RSR criteria. A network of perforated pipes was installed at the base of the excavation for potential future use as an injection and distribution system for groundwater remediation through in-situ chemical oxidation.

Closure of a Former Plating Operation 600,000-ft2 Industrial Complex - Connecticut

SHA was retained to facilitate the closure of a plating operation in accordance with applicable CTDEP guidance. The operation dated back to 1906, and historically consisted of plating with copper, nickel, cadmium, chromium, and possibly silver. SHA's services included observation and documentation of equipment removal, decontamination, and disposal activities performed by remedial contractors; as well as collection and analysis of: wipe samples from the ceiling (18) and overhead pipes (24), concrete chip samples from the floors (37) and walls (16), concrete core samples from the concrete floor slab (9), and soil samples from directly beneath the concrete floor slab (36). Sample results indicated that relatively elevated contaminant concentrations were present within the concrete floor slab and the underlying soils, including hexavalent chromium, nickel, cadmium, and cyanide. Remedial measures are under consideration as part of a broader investigation being performed at the site in the context of the Connecticut Property Transfer Act.

Subsurface Characterization of Active Steel Mill Midwest, US

Environmental and hydrogeologic conditions were characterized at this 50-acre, 50+ year old active steel mill. As part of our work over 40 monitoring wells were installed and sampled. Primary issues included on-Site steel pickling and plating operations; use of polychlorinated biphenyl oils in transformers and hydraulic systems; on-Site storage/disposal of metal-bearing wastes (nickel, chromium, manganese, zinc); gasoline and fuel oil underground storage tanks, and use of chlorinated volatile organic compounds. Following investigation, SHA developed a remedial strategy to address the observed contamination.

Characterization and Remediation of Former Plating Facility Design Services - Somerville, Massachusetts

A former plating facility was being considered for commercial redevelopment. Site soils contained elevated concentrations of chromium, cyanide, nickel, lead and other inorganics, as well as polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons free product oil and volatile organic compounds. Groundwater contained elevated concentrations of chromium and nickel. Groundwater chemistry was complicated by high pH (up to 12). SHA assessed specific source areas of metals on-site, transport and fate of metals in groundwater, and explanation of elevated metals concentrations in groundwater in light of the high pH stabilization of soils. SHA oversaw the excavation and on-site stabilization of contaminated soil; the extraction and treatment of contaminated groundwater; and the construction of new site infrastructure including a major storm drain. Human health and ecological risk assessments were completed; potential impact to the adjacent River was of particular concern.

Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) Beede Waste Oil/Cash Energy Superfund Site - Plaistow, New Hampshire

Under contract to New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES), SHA's work has included an initial phase (pre-RI) of site and waste characterization; a second (pre-RI) phase including sampling and analysis of the contents of above ground storage tanks, completion of a preliminary assessment of remedial alternatives for approximately 25,000 tons of stockpiled soils, preparation of specifications and observation/documentation of the removal of approximately 100,000 gallons of recyclable used oil, and groundwater and surface water quality monitoring; performance of the RI/FS, including Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments, and observation and documentation of removal actions completed by NHDES contractors.

Remedial Investigation (RI) Mohawk Tannery Site - Nashua, New Hampshire

This former tannery was in operation from the 1920s to the 1980s. Approximately 100,000 tons of tannery sludge are present in seven disposal areas at the Site, including two lagoons adjacent to the Nashua River. SHA was selected by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) from a field of over 20 consultants to perform the site RI, including Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments. SHA investigated soil and groundwater contamination adjacent to the sludge disposal areas, the former tannery building, and the former boiler house; and waste residues within the former tannery building. NHDES and USEPA are currently considering whether to list the Site on the National Pri

Investigation of Perchlorate Contamination Jaffrey, New Hampshire

SHA has been engaged by New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) to investigate the nature, extent and potential source(s) of perchlorate contamination in a several hundred acre-area of Jaffrey considered for a potential large groundwater withdrawal water supply (approximately 500,000 to 1,000,000 GPD). To our knowledge, this is the first large-scale study of perchlorate contamination in New Hampshire. Potential sources of perchlorate in or near the study area include: fertilizer use in agricultural fields, large scale use of bleach, recent blasting of bedrock, the municipal landfill, municipal wastewater treatment lagoons, plating /electroplating operations, fireworks production/storage, and/or match production. SHA's field activities, which include sampling and analysis of soil, groundwater, surface water and sediment, are nearing completion, and we expect to have a final report submitted to the NHDES in the next few months.

Environmental Due Diligence Multi-site Industrial Acquisition - Worldwide Locations

SHA was retained to complete environmental due diligence associated with the successful acquisition of a multi-site $1.1 billion dollar manufacturer. Our work included participation on a team of legal, financial, and strategic planning experts, and involved review of environmental conditions at over forty manufacturing sites located throughout the world. Our work included identification of key environmental liabilities and an estimate of associated costs. Since the acquisition, under provisions of the terms of sale, SHA has completed Phase I Environmental Assessments at over 30 facilities in the United States, as well as Canada, Italy, Germany, France, Spain, England, the Czech Republic, Brazil, and China. We have also completed detailed Phase II Assessments at a number of these locations, and have carried on follow-up remediation and remediation oversight as well.

Site Assessment and Groundwater Longevity Analysis Industrial Site - Yinchuan, China

SHA was retained by a U.S.-based client to perform an environmental site assessment at a manufacturing facility located in north-central China, at the edge of the Gobi Desert. The ESA was conducted to better understand the potential environmental liabilities our client may have faced if they entered into a joint venture agreement with the current Chinese owner. SHA performed a detailed reconnaissance of the facility. We also collected water samples from the facility's water supply wells, and performed on-Site PCB testing of transformer oil. SHA provided an opinion as to how the Site could potentially be regarded by national and local environmental authorities. Our services also included an engineering analysis of the longevity of groundwater supplies to provide over 2.5 million gallons of groundwater per day for manufacturing purposes.

Hydrogeologic Evaluation, Proposed Quarry Expansion Litchfield, New Hampshire

SHA was retained to assess the potential hydrogeologic effects associated with expanding a hillside quarry operation by excavating approximately 250 feet below the elevation of nearby streams and wetlands over an area of approximately 100 acres. In particular, SHA focused on the potential effects on nearby residential bedrock groundwater supply wells and on the surface water and wetlands ecology that could potentially result from dewatering the excavation. SHA coordinated and assisted with the installation of 14 bedrock monitoring wells, 10 overburden monitoring wells, 8 hand driven wetland well points, and 8 stream gauges. Hydraulic testing included a one-day step drawdown test, an eight-day pumping test, dual-packer testing of bedrock wells and geochemical and radiological characterization of bedrock and overburden groundwater and surface water samples. SHA developed a quasi-three dimensional groundwater flow model, calibrated it to pump test conditions, and used it to predict groundwater conditions under various stages of the quarry development. SHA also developed a long term hydrologic and wetlands monitoring program, and made multiple presentations and appearances at public hearings. The project was successful in helping our client obtain the required local planning approval.

Hydrogeologic Investigations and Aquifer Renovation Clinton County Landfill - Schuyler Falls, New York

Several hydrogeologic studies have been completed at this landfill site in support of landfill expansion applications. SHA completed a hydrogeologic study to assess the nature and extent of groundwater contamination in a water table aquifer located in a deltaic sand deposit and in an underlying, semi-confined outwash deposit aquifer. This study lead to development of a plan to excavate the deltaic sand unit within the impacted area, and pump out contaminated groundwater. Consequently, with NYSDEC oversight, about 65,000 cubic yards of material were excavated within a 4.5-acre area and approximately one million gallons of groundwater were removed from the excavation. The aquifer materials were replaced in kind with similar deposits from a nearby location. Subsequent water quality monitoring demonstrated that water quality conditions had dramatically improved, resulting in demonstration of monitorability. On the basis of this work, NYSDEC granted approval for landfill expansion construction.

Hydrogeologic Investigations and Remediation Industrial Sites - Haute-Savoie and Ille-et-Vilaine Districts, France

Hydrogeologic investigations were completed at two industrial sites where releases of chlorinated volatile organic compounds and petroleum hydrocarbons were found to have occurred. Due to the nature of these assignments and the availability of equipment to support field explorations, pragmatic approaches were used to assess subsurface conditions. At both sites, soil gas and groundwater analyses were used to characterize the extent of contamination, complete an exposure assessment of impacts to human and environmental receptors, and to develop remedial plans for contaminant mass removal and hydraulic containment. SHA has made presentations to regulatory authorities in both districts, and has completed final design of remediation systems at these sites. At one site, the remediation system has been successfully installed and is operational; at the second site, installation is waiting final regulatory approval.

Superfund Remedial Investigation Blackburn & Union Privileges Superfund Site - Walpole, Massachusetts

The Site includes 21 parcels of land, encompassing an area of approximately 22 acres. Portions of the Site have been the locus of various industrial activities spanning several hundred years. The Site currently includes two engineered asbestos containment areas. The combination of elevated pH (up to pH 14), with elevated metals and semi-volatile organic compound concentrations in soil, groundwater, sediment and surface water increases the complexity of analysis. SHA's work has included completion of an extensive 3-year field and analytical program, including conventional and rotosonic drilling of over 70 soil borings and installation of over 40 monitoring wells. SHA developed and maintains a relational database with over 100,000 data elements to support analysis efforts.

Characterization of Impact to Groundwater from High pH Lime Solids and Wastewater Lagoons Lime Production Facility - Massachusetts

SHA evaluated potential impact to groundwater from high pH process water lagoons. Based on assessment of site hydraulics and geochemistry, the source of high pH (up to pH 13) impacts to groundwater was determined to be largely lime [Ca(OH)2] solids present in the area of the lagoons, and not the lagoon process water. Potential impacts to deeper aquifer and adjacent stream were modeled hydraulically and geochemically. SHA conducted a pump test on a new water supply well and developed conceptual remedial alternatives.

Site Closure, 60-Acre Industrial Site England

SHA completed a successful 3-year environmental assessment and remediation program associated with closure of a 60-year old, 50-acre industrial facility in the UK Midlands, which included significant input to redevelopment master planning, interface with local and national regulators (Environment Agency), and assistance to the legal team. Our services involved assessment of the distribution of chlorinated volatile organic compounds and hydrocarbons in a multi-aquifer bedrock system; completion of contaminant transport analyses and a quantitative risk assessment using the latest UK guidance; completion of a multi-well pump test and pilot groundwater treatment test; and completion of final remedial system design. The site was successfully transferred to a redevelopment team.

Comprehensive Remedial Investigation, Risk Assessment, Feasibility Study, Remedial Design and Implementation Hydrocarbon and Solvent Handling Facility - Midwest, US

SHA investigated the extent and fate of hydrocarbon and solvent contamination originating from a facility used for shipping, handling, and bulking hydrocarbon products, including 140,000 gallons in underground storage and 1.3 million gallons in above-ground storage. The facility has also been used historically for handling chlorinated solvent products. The remedial investigation included delineation and characterization of an extensive zone of petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC) and chlorinated volatile organic compound contamination. The investigatory program entailed the completion and sampling of over 100 monitoring wells, including multi-level cluster installations. As part of the investigatory work and design/installation of a free-product recovery system, soils, groundwater, and free product have been analyzed for the purposes of source identification, potential treatment options, and waste disposal. Approximately 10 different PHC types have been identified and characterized based on geochemical analysis.

Chlorinated Solvent Investigation and Urgency Determination Industrial Site - North Holland, The Netherlands

SHA was requested to provide site characterization services at the site of release of chlorinated solvents in North Holland. SHA designed and executed an extensive investigation with the assistance of a Dutch teaming partner. Our work included assessment of complicated groundwater flow regime resulting from regional dewatering to depress groundwater levels below sea level; contaminant transport and fate analyses; and a receptor evaluation. Work was completed pursuant to the 1996 Dutch Soil Protection Act and under review of Provincial regulatory authorities.

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