Bio
Ms. Kelsey Kirkland is a geologist with experience in technical writing, site investigations, environmental sampling (sediment, soil, and groundwater, vapor intrusion), conceptual site model development, data analysis, and interpretation.
Relevant Experience
Predesign Investigation
Portland Harbor Predesign Investigation, Portland, Oregon — Field supervisor and lead logger for subsurface sediment collection at toxic and hazardous waste site. Investigated nature and extent of contamination to determine appropriate cleanup actions, methods, and tools for remediation and to ensure compliance with applicable standards. Directed the collection of subsurface sediment cores using a vibracore and sonic core sampler for sediment chemical and toxicological analysis. Processed subsurface sediment samples and developed detailed core logs according to ASTM International standards, documenting lithology, nonaqueous-phase liquid observations, and sediment characteristics. Trained staff to use standard operating procedures for sediment sample collection and processing. Supported soil sample collection and processing.
Remedial Investigation
Sediment Sampling and Analysis, Seattle, Washington — Supported field team in sediment core processing for dredge characterization. Processed subsurface sediment samples and developed detailed core logs according to ASTM International standards, documenting lithology and sediment characteristics.
Superfund Allocation Support
Portland Harbor Superfund Site Allocation, Portland, Oregon — Conducted historical research and prepared attorney-directed expert reports for various properties located within the Portland Harbor Superfund Site. Provided additional technical assistance to attorney-directed expert reports for the Portland Harbor Superfund Site, including in-depth research and synthesis of historical data, technical writing, QA/QC support, and data analysis and interpretation.
Remedial Design
Former Steam Plant, Seattle, Washington — Participated in the collection and preparation of field data (soil borings and groundwater samples) and developed detailed core logs according to project standards that documented lithology and soil characteristics to support conceptual site model development and remedial design.
Site Investigation and Soil Remediation
Soil Removal Action, Guánica, Puerto Rico — Field lead for soil sample collection and source control assessment and implementation at CERCLA site. Coordinated field staff, field effort logistics, and data management workflow. Led the collection and preparation of field data (soil borings, soil grab samples, water samples, and backfill material samples) and developed detailed field documents according to project standards to support removal action and further develop conceptual site model.
Natural Resource Damage Assessment
Trichloroethene Plume, Long Island, New York — Assisted in developing water budget in defense of claims for groundwater damages at Department of Defense site on Long Island.
Field Effort for Litigation Support, Confidential Location — Provided litigation support for natural resource damages matter that included alleged injury to potential ecological and recreational uses. Coordinated field staff, field effort logistics, soil sample processing, and sample management for soil sampling field effort.
Site Characterization
Groundwater Plume, Woodinville, Washington — Participated in the collection and preparation of field data (soil borings and groundwater samples) and developed detailed field documents according to project standards.
Monitoring
Ward Cove Long-Term Monitoring, Ketchikan, Alaska — Assisted in the collection and processing of surface sediment samples for chemical analysis and benthic fauna. Analyzed sediment profile and plan view images.
Vapor Intrusion
Sub-Slab Vapor and Air Sampling Investigation, Lynnwood, Washington — Participated in the collection and preparation of outdoor air, indoor air, and subslab soil vapor samples for the evaluation of air quality and assessment of potential exposure pathways. The primary chemicals of concern for the site were the volatile organic compounds including tetrachloroethene (PCE) and its associated degradation compounds, including trichloroethene (TCE), cis‑1,2‑dichloroethene (cis‑1,2‑DCE), trans‑1,2‑dichloroethene (trans‑1,2‑DCE), 1,1-dichloroethene (1,1-DCE), and vinyl chloride.
Modeling
LeapFrog Geo Numeric and Geologic Modeling, Portland, Oregon — Developed numeric and geologic conceptual site models utilizing bathymetric, geophysical, and subsurface sediment data. Models include interpolations of potential dredge surfaces and lithologic layers for site characterization to inform remedial design.
LeapFrog Geo Numeric and Geologic Modeling, Navassa, North Carolina — Lead modeler supporting the CERCLA process to characterize and remediate environmental impacts associated with a former wood treatment facility—including dense nonaqueous-phase liquid contamination and contaminated soil, groundwater, and intertidal marsh sediment and sediment porewater.
Project Management
Stormwater Management, Seattle and Woodinville, Washington — Managed technical team conducting stormwater compliance audits, client property site inspections, stormwater sampling training, and stormwater pollution prevention plan review. Prepared monthly invoices and budgeting.
Education & Credentials
M.S., Geological Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, 2020
B.S., Geology, Western Washington University, Bellingham, Washington, 2014
Licensed Geologist, Washington (License No. 24032732)
Continuing Education
OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER
OSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Supervisor
BOSIET CAEBS–Basic Offshore Safety Induction Emergency Training with Compressed Air Emergency Breathing System Certified (current)
First Aid/CPR/AED Certified
Professional Affiliations
Geological Society of America, Hydrogeology Division and Environmental & Engineering Geology Division
Women in Environment, Seattle Chapter
Insights & News
Resources
Using Accurate Sample Elevations to Characterize Sediment Conditions with 3-Dimensional Modeling
Market Update
The Benthic Zone (September Edition): Integral's Sediment Newsletter
Market Update
Analysis and Assessment: Integral Presents at SETAC Virtual Meeting