Characterization and remediation of PCB-contaminated sediments
GGI utilizes geomorphology, dendrochronology, and stratigraphic description of sediment deposits for characterization and remediation of PCB-contaminated sediments at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), New Mexico, USA.
GGI collaborated with Dr. Steven Reneau and Ms. Beckey Coel-Roback of LANL to characterize PCB-contaminated sediments at a site in Los Alamos Canyon, a watershed that drains the Pajarito Plateau and is tributary to the Rio Grande in New Mexico. GGI utilized geomorphic mapping, dendrochronology, and measurement of thickness and stratigraphy of sediment deposits to determine the horizontal and vertical extent of PCB-contaminated sediments. Contaminated sediments were excavated, and GGI conducted confirmatory sampling to verify the removal of PCBs from the site. The chemical analysis and fingerprinting of PCBs at this site can also be used to determine if PCBs have been transported downstream from this site to the Rio Grande (see related Blog “GGI completes Sediment Sampling in Los Alamos Canyon“).
Geomorphic characterization at LA‐SMA‐2, the site with the highest concentrations of PCBs in the Los Alamos Canyon watershed. Tree was buried by 43 cm of sediment after it began growing in 1985. Note bend in tree caused by damage by a flood in ca 1998.
Graph showing distinctive chemical signature of PCB’s at site in Los Alamos Canyon.
Soil samples collected from base of excavation to remove PCB‐contaminated sediment at LA‐SMA‐2, December 2009 (upper Los Alamos Canyon)
If you want to know more about sediment sampling and contaminant transport or want to discuss your geomorphology projects please contact me at drakos@glorietageo.com or at 505 983 5446 Ext. 108.
About GGI:
Founded in 1979 in Santa Fe, NM, GGI has been providing quality professional consulting services in groundwater development, water rights, geomorphology, dairy regulatory compliance, alternative energy and environmental sciences. GGI serves federal, state, and municipal entities, tribal governments, private corporations, and individuals. We pride ourselves in our ability to listen to our clients’ goals and help turn these goals into successes.
For more information please visit our website at www.glorietageo.com
