Groundwater Investigations Information

Groundwater investigations and inspection: When historical review or a site inspection suggests that soil or groundwater contamination exists, soil and water sampling may be necessary to evaluate the extent of the contamination. AEC's geologists and engineers have extensive experience in evaluating soil and groundwater contamination as part of a site characterization study. These groundwater investigations may be part of a Phase II environmental assessment; a UST investigation, a risk assessment, or other type of projects requiring actual site data to evaluate the presence, extent, degree, and source of soil and/or groundwater contamination. Our services include:

Sampling Programs: We design and implement sampling programs to evaluate soil, surface water, and groundwater contamination. Sampling programs are sometimes limited to collecting shallow soil samples using a hand auger and in other cases involve a full drilling program with installation of monitoring wells for groundwater sampling. AEC uses traditional geoprobe soil and groundwater sampling when appropriate to screen sites for contamination. These screening techniques can reduce the time and expense required for large-scale sampling programs.

Geophysical Investigations: AEC conducts geophysical investigations on a wide variety of hazardous waste sites to obtain subsurface information. We use geophysical techniques such as resistivity, electromagnetic surveys, magnetometry, and ground-penetrating radar surveys.

Modeling: AEC uses flow and transport models to: simulate and assess surface and subsurface movement of water and contaminants; design and evaluate remedial action alternatives; and evaluate the effect of pollutant loads on surface water and groundwater quality. We can also use modeling data to prepare a risk assessment.

Feasibility Studies: Based on the results of the sampling program, AEC can evaluate cost-effective and practical approaches to cleanups by conducting feasibility studies. Feasibility studies allow our clients to make informed decisions regarding site cleanups.

For more information on groundwater investigations, please contact us.