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Best Practices for Risk-Informed Decision Making Regarding Contaminated Sites Summary of a Workshop Series (2014) / Chapter Skim
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3 Holistic Approaches to Remediation
Pages 31-40

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From page 31...
... that considers the unique aspects of multiple Hanford sites, which will require a longer timeframe to reach remediation endpoints. The framework • uses conceptual models, which are a foundation for technical ef forts and communication; • uses the subsurface system and site context to inform remedy ap proach and timeframe; • maintains protection while addressing future risk and cleanup; • adapts as a plume evolves and responds to actions over time, en abling adaptation and transitions along a longer timeframe.
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From page 32...
... Truex fixed image,framework principles has been successful: soil vapor extraction, the these color 100-N Area, the 100-F Area, and the Central Plateau. The 100-N Area, which is located along the Columbia River north of the Central Plateau, includes a strontium groundwater plume adjacent to the river.
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From page 33...
... The conceptual model, which defines the characteristics of the system and the source mass discharge, was used in conjunction with transport calculations to determine the mass discharge that is protective of the groundwater. 3.3  100-N AND 100-F AREAS The 100-N Area is a reactor site along the Columbia River where trenches were used to dispose of water laden with strontium-90, explained Mr.
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From page 34...
... Approximately 67 single-shell tanks were known or suspected to have leaked waste into the surrounding soil. Interim actions have been taken to reduce migration of subsurface contamination, and final remedial actions will be coordinated with remediation activities elsewhere on the Central Plateau.
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From page 35...
... It is important to recognize that communicating and identifying the scientific basis for predictive assessments are important and that addressing complex sites in terms of maintaining protectiveness has been successful. Jeffrey Griffin, associate laboratory director of the Environmental Stewardship Directorate at Savannah River National Laboratory, presented examples of overcoming barriers to risk-based remediation at the Savannah River Site (SRS)
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From page 36...
... SRS is approximately 300 square miles and has a radioactive waste burial ground, operational disposal pits around the site, and seepage basins and associated process sewer lines, similar to the Hanford site. Closure at the site is an integrated effort of Area Completion Projects to address project-specific needs through applied technology, said Dr.
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From page 37...
... The innovative thinking was to work with natural flow patterns rather than fight against them, and sequester and treat groundwater contaminants in situ. This system required developing technologies to employ enhanced natural attenuation of contaminants in groundwater using hydrologic flow models, engineered structures, and injection of chemical amendments.
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From page 38...
... It is a formalized, consensus-based process in which indi viduals with decision-making authority, including the Department of Energy, Envi ronmental Protection Agency, and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control reach agreement on key remediation decisions. The SRS Core Team focuses on making sound, consensus-based decisions for all aspects of the SRS remediation program, from initial characterization efforts through re medial selection and implementation to post-closure monitoring and maintenance.
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From page 39...
... Early in the remediation process at Rocky Flats, future end uses were considered. The Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge Act of 2001 established and allocated permanent federal ownership of the entire site between DOE and the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Interior.
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From page 40...
... Dr. Maloney stated that the flow sheet for Rocky Flats, for example, built into the 40,000 activities the technology costs, schedule risks, and externality risks.
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Key Terms

  • central plateau
  • rocky flats
  • hanford site
  • columbia river
  • soil vapor

  • vapor extraction
  • natural attenuation
  • vadose zone
  • team process
  • remediation approaches

  • river site
  • savannah river
  • reactor site
  • key remediation
  • remediation strategies

  • remediation decisions
  • remediation efforts
  • reach agreement
  • wildlife refuge
  • control reach

  • carolina department
  • flow sheet
  • mass discharge
  • nuclear regulatory
  • complex sites

  • regulatory commission
  • source reduction
  • overcoming barriers
  • environmental control
  • square miles


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