Theme: 10. Characterization, Fate and Transport

Topic Area: 10h. HRSC Suites of Tools to Improve CSMs

Formatted Title:

Better, Stronger, Faster! Revolutionizing CSM Development and Updates with Real-Time Geospatial Applications and Interactive Data Analytics

Background/Objectives:

Web-based, 3D conceptual site model (CSM) environments populated with near real-time geospatial mapping of high-resolution site characterization (HRSC) field data and analytical laboratory test results enable collaboration and rapid decision-making by stakeholders who are geographically distributed and/or working remotely. Here, we demonstrate how data-driven operations use sophisticated data management processes coupled with state-of-the-industry geospatial technology to coordinate the rapid execution of contaminant nature and extent determinations conducted under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) at two United States Department of Defense facilities located in Salt Lake City, UT, and Fort Barfoot, VA.

Approach/Activities:

Preliminary site characterization data for the Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS) Clearfield historical military landfill in Salt Lake City, UT, indicate the presence of chlorinated solvents in buried waste potentially in direct contact with groundwater. Historical fire-fighting training and fire event responses at Fort Barfoot, VA, have resulted in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination to soil and groundwater at seven individual areas of interest within a complex hydrogeologic environment. Data from HRSC field methods are integrated with previously collected data, near real time, into web-based geospatial mapping and 3D data visualizations to support dynamic evaluation of contaminant distributions in the saturated zone. Accelerated identification of preferential flow pathways and delineation of groundwater contaminant source areas provide fate and transport information necessary to identify data gaps and next steps toward achieving CERCLA remedial investigation (RI) objectives.

An interactive, data-driven, site-specific geospatial viewer is used by the project team and stakeholders to direct field teams through an iterative site characterization process, with 3D CSM visualizations developed from each round of data collection informing next steps. Data-rich GIS-based visualization layers inform the selection of locations and depth intervals for “step-out” delineation. Automated applications provide immediate access to user-selected 3D visualizations. Preliminary data visualizations that provide key illustrations of contaminant nature and extent will be refined for preparation of maps and exhibits to be provided in the RI report.

Results/Lessons Learned:

Successful implementation of these tools and processes leads to better and faster data-driven decision-making, maximizing returns on initial field investigation dollars. Focusing characterization efforts on fate and transport parameters enables early identification of potential risks and exposure pathway priorities. Sequential illustrations of the evolving CSMs for both sites will be provided, to include pre-mobilization representations of site conditions, interim sampling results, identified data gaps and decision points, and the final array of RI sample and hydrogeologic data at demobilization.

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Janine Latham