Navassa—Site Investigation and DNAPL Remediation at a Former Wood Treating Facility

OUR CHALLENGE

Under a bankruptcy settlement, our client is responsible for the cleanup and facilitation of redevelopment of Superfund site in Navassa, North Carolina.  Environmental investigations dating back more than a decade have characterized the complex history of soil and groundwater contamination at the site, including dense nonaqueous-phase liquid (DNAPL) contamination extending more than 75 ft below the ground surface and contamination of an adjacent tidal marsh. These conditions present our client with a challenge to balance the need to more fully characterize the site and devise a comprehensive remedial plan with the strong stakeholder desire to expedite site closure and facilitate redevelopment.

OUR APPROACH

Integral has worked with our client to accelerate cleanup at the site. Our strategy has been to engage stakeholders through robust, technically-sound work products and clear communication.  Integral has emphasized the development of a thorough site understanding to guide site investigation work and identify remedial actions that address site risks.  By applying our wide range of technical resources, we have addressed the complex array of issues posed by the site and supported the Trust in effectively and efficiently moving through the regulatory process.

OUR IMPACT

Integral has aided the Trust and regulatory agencies in transitioning the site from investigation to remediation and closure.  A no-action record of decision was issued for a 22-acre area of the site that was subsequently removed from the National Priorities List (NPL).  Integral is overseeing the remediation of a second 16-acre area, with anticipated NPL delisting in 2024. As a result, the client Trust is actively marketing these areas for redevelopment. Concurrently, the team is completing investigations, risk assessments, and feasibility studies for the remainder of the site and the tidal marsh.