| Action Date |
Action |
Description |
DEC Staff |
| 3/26/1993 |
Update or Other Action |
DOD & ADEC joint Technical Memorandum of understanding signed concerning the Base-wide Groundwater (GW) signed by: ADEC Jennifer Roberts RPM & USAF Joseph Williamson Chief Environmental Programs & Restoration. Due to the base-wide GW study & the FY92 field work that occurred at Operable Units (OUs) 1, 2, & 5 it appears a large portion of the GW flows into OU5 (attach. 1-contour map). Based on this fact, Elmendorf (EAFB) will move all upgradient GW into the OU5 Feasibility Study, Proposed Plan & Record of Decision (ROD). This means addressing all GW from upgradient sources (CERCLA (ST20, OUs 3 and 4) & OUs 1 & portions of OU2) & SERA) at OU5 instead of at each individual source area (see attach. 2-Area Map). Sites with free phased product would be looked at to see if there is an available technology to clean them up in a cost effective way. Soil contamination would be addressed at the source areas. NOTE: addressed at the source areas is interpreted by ADEC as removal through excavation or active treatment systems (e.g. high vacuum extraction, bioventing, etc...). |
Jennifer Roberts |
| 11/30/1994 |
Update or Other Action |
In October 1994, the UST and associated piping were removed. Seven soil samples were collected from the UST excavation and analyzed only for diesel-range organics (DRO). DRO results for three of the excavation samples (ranging from 2,900 to 12,000 milligrams per kilogram [mg/kg]) exceeded the ADEC 18 AAC 75, Method Two cleanup level of 250 mg/kg. The excavation samples were collected at depths ranging from 9 to 13 feet below ground surface (bgs).
Excavated soil was stockpiled adjacent to the site. Three samples were collected from the stockpile and analyzed for DRO. DRO results (ranging from 1,100 to 5,200 mg/kg) exceeded Method Two cleanup levels in all three stockpile samples. Excavated soil (not clean) and approximately 100 cubic yards of clean fill were used to backfill the excavation. |
Louis Howard |
| 4/21/1995 |
Update or Other Action |
Air Force Memorandum to John Halverson re: UST meeting. Elmendorf AFB will accomplish the following actions regarding UST projects. These actions are based upon conversation between, John Mahaffey, Larry Opperman and yourself.
1) EAFB will make every effort to accomplish clean closure of a UST removal if possible. 2) UST removal locations requiring cleanup action will be transferred into the State Elmendorf Environmental Restoration Agreement (SERA). A list of sites requiring cleanup will be coordinated with your office. 3) The presumptive remedy for contaminated UST sites in the outwash plain only will be bioventing technology. 4) Contaminated soils exceeding cleanup levels may be placed back into the excavation only if the site assessment (SA) indicates a need for further action. 5) Contaminated UST sites not in the outwash plain will require further investigation to determine appropriate cleanup options. 6) We (Elmendorf) will make every attempt possible to assure new USTs or new aboveground tanks are not installed in any way that would hamper future access for cleanup. 7) The project will first accomplish removal of all the USTs. SA information will be used to prioritize sites for cleanup using existing project funds. Additional funding will be requested to complete cleanup if available. Sites not addressed for cleanup due to exhausted funding will be placed in SERA Phase IV.
John Halverson signed memorandum on April 21, 1995. Memorandum submitted by Douglas G. Tarbett, Maj. USAF, Chief Environmental Compliance (CCs 3 WG/JA and 3 SPTG/CE). |
John Halverson |
| 8/14/1995 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
On February 21, 1995, staff sent the Air Force a letter with comments on site assessment reports prepared by EA Engineering for underground storage tanks (USTs) it closed or upgraded during 1994. The reports were not complete and ADEC requested they be amended to provide the necessary information. Without the complete site assessment reports ADEC is unable to make determinations on site closure or the need for additional investigation or corrective action.
Until information is submitted, the Air Force has not met its site assessment obligations and may be in violation of release investigation and corrective action requirements. On March 28, 1995, ADEC sent the Air Force another letter providing comments on site assessment reports prepared by Haliburton NUS and Harding Lawson. Several of the sites may be appropriate for no further action decisions after additional information is provided. However, until it is submitted, ADEC cannot make such determinations. Tank#805 at building 24-805, failed a tightness test in 1994 and was removed from the ground. Tanks 96 thru 104 were also removed from the ground in 1994. Petroleum contaminated soil was excavated during removal of the tanks.
The Air Force requested approval to place the contaminated soil back in the ground at both sites based on a lack of funds for treatment and the fact winter was setting in. ADEC approval was granted on the condition that in-situ soil remediation be started at each site no later than June 30, 1995. ADEC has been informed that work under the proposed SERA Phase IV has not been contracted yet, work plans have not been prepared and it does not appear the field work will be started this year. This is a violation of the corrective action requirements outlined in 18 AAC 78 UST regulations and our agreements. |
John Halverson |
| 10/17/1996 |
Institutional Control Record Established |
Air Force memo: Restricted Use of the Shallow Aquifer on Elmendorf Air Force Base (EAFB) signed by William R. Hanson P.E. GM-14 Chief Environmental Flight dated October 17, 1996 Memorandum for 3 SPTG/CEC/CEO from 3 SPTG/CEV:
1) Due to the contamination and commitments to regulators the use of the shallow aquifer for any purpose on Elmendorf is not allowed. Please see the attached Facility Board minutes (March 29, 1994 0930-Item 9 of minutes). Mr. William Hanson, Chief of Environmental, briefed to the Facilities Board the policy to not use the shallow water aquifer due to contamination. The Facilities Board approved this policy. Minutes approved by Thomas R. Case Brigadier General USAF Commander. The Installation Restoration Program (IRP) has additional Record of Decisions (RODs) for Operable Units 3 and 6 which require, as a stipulation of the agreement with Environmental Protection Agency and Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, this aquifer remain unused.
2) Our concern is that key personnel in the review process within Civil Engineer Squadron are aware of these policies and that these policies are reviewed on a recurring basis. It is imperative that this restriction be recognized and observed during engineer reviews and operations.
3) If you have questions on this subject, please contact Mr. Joe Williamson at 552-7229. |
Jennifer Roberts |
| 9/30/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
SERA IV: In 1996 and 1997, six soil borings were installed at this site during the State-Elmendorf Environmental Restoration Agreement (SERA) Phase IV investigation (Figure 1). Soil samples were collected at approximately 5-foot intervals from each boring for lithologic logging and field screening. Three of the borings were completed as monitoring wells, two borings were completed as piezometers, and one boring (409WL01) was completed as a bioventing well. Well 409WL01 could also be used as a monitoring well.
Two soil samples were collected from each boring and analyzed for gasoline-range organics (GRO); DRO; and benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX). Selected samples also were analyzed for polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). DRO exceeded Method Two cleanup levels in three samples (309 to 2,600 mg/kg) collected in the "smear" (The smear zone is defined as the range of depths within which the groundwater will fluctuate under normal seasonal conditions, and therefore, in which free product would move and “smear” the soil in response to these seasonal changes in the water level elevation. The smear zone soils may therefore be saturated or unsaturated with groundwater at any given time.) or saturated zones (21 to 31 feet bgs). Benzene was not detected in any of the samples; the laboratory reporting limit ranged from 0.05 to 0.1 mg/kg and the method detection limit ranged from 0.01 to 0.02 mg/kg. All other results were below Method Two cleanup levels.
Groundwater samples were collected from the three monitoring wells and analyzed for DRO, GRO, and BTEX (Figure 2). Contaminant concentrations did not exceed the groundwater cleanup levels. |
Louis Howard |
| 11/30/1998 |
Update or Other Action |
SERA VII: In 1998, three soil borings were installed during the SERA Phase VII investigation. Soil samples were collected at approximately 5-foot intervals from each boring for lithologic logging and field screening. Two of these borings were completed as monitoring wells.
Seven samples were collected from the three borings and analyzed for GRO, DRO, and BTEX. Soil and groundwater results indicate that petroleum hydrocarbons have impacted the soil at the former UST site and have migrated vertically to groundwater, affecting the "smear zone" (The smear zone is defined as the range of depths within which the groundwater will fluctuate under normal seasonal conditions, and therefore, in which free product would move and smear the soil in response to these seasonal changes in the water level elevation. The smear zone soils may therefore be saturated or unsaturated with groundwater at any given time.) downgradient of the tank.
However, the contamination in soil appears to have migrated no farther than 50 feet from the former UST location. 3 years of sampling have indicated that only 4 soil samples exceed the cleanup level of 250 mg/kg DRO. Three (1996 and 1997) were found at a depth of 21 to 31 feet bgs and the 4th was at 5 feet bgs. It was believed that the 5 feet sample was not related to the former UST because of the sample's location relative to the other impacted samples. Benzene was not detected in any of the samples; the laboratory reporting limit ranged from 0.0173 to 0.039 mg/kg. The only soil sample from 1998 that exceeded soil cleanup standards was at 5 feet bgs in boring 409WL05 (1,480 mg/kg DRO).
Ground water is present at 26-27' bgs. Groundwater samples were collected from the two new monitoring wells and the three wells installed and sampled during the SERA IV investigation (Figure 2). These samples were analyzed for GRO, DRO, and BTEX. DRO results exceeded the Table C groundwater cleanup level in samples from two of the SERA IV wells (409WL02 at 2.55 mg/L and 409WL03 23.5 mg/L).
DRO in groundwater at wells 402WL02 and 409WL03 increased from 1997 to 1998 by an order of magnitude. From 0.331 to 2.55 mg/L in 409WL02 and from 1.3 mg/L to 23.5 mg/L in 409WL03.All other results were below Method Two cleanup levels. |
Louis Howard |
| 3/21/2000 |
Update or Other Action |
Tim Stevens sent a letter to Air Force Colonel Scott Showers. RE: SERA Phase VII final release investigation report for ST 409/7. The report summarizes information collected during a release investigation of a known petroleum release, associated with a 20,000-gallon underground heating oil tank, located near the Elmendorf AFB Hospital. Department has reviewed the release investigation report and is in general agreement with the following Air Force's conclusions: soil and groundwater have been impacted by a petroleum release from the former underground storage tank (UST), the level of soil and groundwater contamination found exceeds state cleanup standards, the former UST site is outside the OU5 groundwater modeling area, and additional groundwater investigation is needed to find the extent of the dissolved phase contamination.
The Department does not agree with the Air Force’s statement that no data gaps exist in the information presented. The Department reviewed Figure 3-2 and believes the number and location of the existing monitoring wells is insufficient to monitor and define the contaminant plume. Additional monitoring wells are needed directly downgradient of monitoring well 409WL03. Therefore, the Department is requesting the Air Force to submit a work plan for additional groundwater investigation to further define the extent of the groundwater contamination plume, and to provide data about the contaminant plume directly down gradient of monitoring well 409WL03.
The Department is also requesting the Air Force to submit a corrective action plan to address the soil and groundwater contamination found during the UST closure and release investigation. Under Section 3.2.1 of the report, the Air Force acknowledged finding contamination, exceeding soil cleanup standards (1,480 mg/Kg DRO), at the 5 foot sampling depth for monitor well 409WL05. Based on the apparent shallowness of the contamination found and the distance from the former UST, the contamination is thought to be from a separate release. The Department is requesting the Air Force to investigate this area of contamination to determine the extent of the contamination found. |
Tim Stevens |
| 11/30/2001 |
Update or Other Action |
SERA IX: Seven soil borings were installed during the SERA Phase IX investigation conducted in 2001. Soil samples were collected at approximately 5-foot intervals from each boring for lithologic logging and field screening. Five of these borings were installed around 409WL05 to delineate the lateral extent of surface contamination. The other two borings were installed downgradient of the site and were completed as sentinel monitoring wells.
One near-surface soil sample was collected from three of the five soil borings around 409WL05. All three samples were analyzed for GRO, DRO, BTEX, and residual-range organics (RRO). Two of the samples also were analyzed for PAHs. DRO exceeded the Method Two cleanup level in the sample collected nearest to 409WL05 (5,700 mg/kg). Benzene was not detected in any of the samples; the laboratory reporting limit ranged from 0.02 to 0.023 mg/kg. All other results were below Method Two cleanup levels.
Three subsurface soil samples were collected from each sentinel well boring and analyzed for GRO, DRO, BTEX, and RRO. Two of these samples also were analyzed for PAHs. All analytes were non-detectable in these six samples. The laboratory reporting limit for benzene ranged from 0.02 to 0.023 mg/kg.
Groundwater samples were collected from the two new monitoring wells, the two SERA VII monitoring wells, and the four SERA IV monitoring wells. These samples were analyzed for GRO, DRO, BTEX and RRO. Two samples were analyzed for PAHs. DRO results (1.5 to 6.7 mg/L) exceeded the Table C groundwater cleanup level in samples from SERA IV wells 409WL02 and 409WL03. The DRO concentrations in these wells in 2001 have decreased substantially from the 1998 levels (SERA VII investigation). All other analytical results were below cleanup levels. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/28/2002 |
Update or Other Action |
ADEC (CS Program S. Bainbridge, Leslie Pearson PER Program) and Air Force (Daniel Barnett) signed the Operational Agreement (OA) concerning presumptive remedies for cleanup of certain petroleum oil and lubricant (POL) releases on the outwash plain portion of Elmendorf Air Force Base (EAFB), Alaska. This OA establishes and describes pre-approved presumptive remedies but does not establish an exclusive set of cleanup options and nothing in the memorandum prohibits EAFB from seeking or obtaining ADEC approval to implement alternative release response and remedial action plans.
For new POL spills in the outwash plain that occur in areas with no operational restrictions or interference from surrounding structures, ADEC approves immediate remediation of contaminated media after free product has been recovered in a manner that minimizes the spread of contamination into an uncontaminated area by using containment, recovery, disposal techniques appropriate to site conditions. The presumptive remedy for new POL spills on the outwash plain consist of excavation, treatment, and disposal of all impacted soil. On a case-by-case basis, ADEC will evaluated the need for recovery of free product from the water table. Finally groundwater monitoring and institutional controls (ICs) placed on the shallow aquifer restricting its use as a drinking water source will be required until such a time that the appropriate groundwater remedial goals are met. If additional institutional controls are required, these controls will be developed by EAFB in consultation with ADEC.
The OA does not apply to spills impacting surface waters. Nothing in the OA relieves, extends or changes the applicable requirements of 18 AAC 75 and 78 for the proper treatment, storage or disposal of contaminated media that result from the implementation of this OA. |
Steve Bainbridge |
| 9/18/2002 |
Update or Other Action |
ADEC grants approval to Air Force for removal of diesel contaminated soil from ST409/7/9. |
Louis Howard |
| 10/21/2002 |
Update or Other Action |
J. Roberts sent a letter to Joe Williamson dissolving the State Elmendorf Environmental Restoration Agreement. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has reviewed the issue of abolishing the State Elmendorf Environmental Restoration Agreement (SERA) per your recommendation. Elmendorf Air Force Base and DEC entered into the SERA in 1992. The agreement was developed as a tool to bring the Base into compliance with Alaska's regulations addressing underground storage tanks, oil and other hazardous substance releases and solid waste.
Since that time, Elmendorf has made significant progress in investigating and cleaning up historic contamination problems. Many of the sites covered by the SERA have been successfully cleaned up and closed. Cleanup is underway at the remaining sites. Additionally, Alaska has amended the regulations addressing fuel storage tanks, oil and other hazardous substance spills and solid waste. We concur with you that the SERA is no longer a necessary or beneficial. This letter serves as notice that DEC will end oversight on environmental work at Elmendorf by using the SERA.
Instead, it is understood that the sites and programs formerly addressed by SERA: solid waste, underground storage tanks (UST), and oil and other hazardous substance discharges will be addressed in accordance with 18 AAC 60, 18 AAC 78 and 18 AAC 75. |
Jennifer Roberts |
| 11/30/2002 |
Update or Other Action |
Soil Excavation: In 2002, approximately 1,046 tons of contaminated soil was excavated from the ST409/7/9 area and transported to Alaska Soil Recycling for thermal treatment. Contaminated soil was removed from the former UST area (excavation measured 40 feet long, 35 feet wide, and 22 feet deep) and the former monitoring well 409WL05 area (excavation measured 23 feet long, 22 feet wide, and 19 feet deep) (Figure 3).
Groundwater was encountered at 25 feet bgs; therefore, the excavation was limited to the interface just above the "smear zone" (The smear zone is defined as the range of depths within which the groundwater will fluctuate under normal seasonal conditions, and therefore, in which free product would move and “smear” the soil in response to these seasonal changes in the water level elevation. The smear zone soils may therefore be saturated or unsaturated with groundwater at any given time.) at approximately 22 feet bgs. Following receipt of confirmation sample results, the excavation was backfilled with clean soil.
Seven confirmation samples were collected from the excavation surrounding the former UST and three confirmation samples were collected from the excavation surrounding the former monitoring well 409WL05 (Figure 3). All samples were analyzed for DRO, one sample was analyzed for PAHs, and two samples were analyzed for BTEX. DRO exceeded Method Two cleanup levels in three of the samples collected from the excavation at the former UST area (297 to 3,970 mg/kg). All other analytical results were below cleanup levels. |
Louis Howard |
| 1/2/2003 |
Site Added to Database |
DRO. |
Debra Caillouet |
| 1/29/2003 |
Update or Other Action |
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (the Department) is in the process of reviewing our files on storage tank removals and assessment work done in the past to ensure that all sites where releases of oil or other hazardous substances have been documented are cleaned up in accordance with state regulations. Many former tank sites had been incorporated into the State Elmendorf Environmental Restoration Agreement (SERA), but it appears that others were not. Now that the SERA has been closed out (October 2002), releases that have not been cleaned-up and closed out need to be addressed following the applicable current contaminated sites and underground storage tank regulations (18 AAC 75 and 18 AAC 78). The Department recently completed a review of the document referenced above and has provided comments below. The site is located at 4913 Yount Avenue formerly known as Bldg. 24-805 on Moose Drive.
Specific Comments 1.4 Previous Investigations Page 1-6 The text states in 1996 fieldwork at ST409/7 consisted of installing one bioventing well and two gas monitoring arrays. Please clarify whether or not the bioventing system was ever turned on by the Air Force for remediation of the contaminated soils found at the site. Also clarify whether or not the bioventing well is properly located to treat the contaminated soils based on the data presented in the report from the most recent sampling (409WL05) and historical information (409WL02). 4.0 Conclusions Page 4-1
The Department had commented on the document in a March 21, 2000 letter to Colonel Scott Showers. The comments are still valid and the Department requests the Air Force provide information regarding the following: The Department disagreed with the conclusion that no data gaps exist since figure 3-2 of the document shows that the number and location of existing monitoring wells is insufficient to monitor and define the contaminant plume. Additional wells are needed directly downgradient of monitoring well 409WL03.
Please provide information showing additional wells were installed to satisfy the Department’s request. Provide information regarding a corrective action plan requested by the Department which adequately addresses the soil and groundwater contamination found during the underground storage tank (UST) closure and subsequent release investigation.
Finally, the Department requested the Air Force investigate the area of contamination (409WL05) thought not to be associated with the former UST to determine the extent of the contamination. The Department requests a written response from the Air Force within thirty (30) days of receipt of this letter on how the Air Force will address the items discussed in the letter. |
Louis Howard |
| 2/28/2003 |
Update or Other Action |
ST409/7/9 Removal Action Report received. Total of 1,046 tons of soil excavated and transported to ASR for thermal treatment. The excavated pit area of 409WL05 was approximately 500 square feet and three samples were taken for confirmation. DRO was detected above cleanup levels at 2,780 mg/kg at 25 feet bgs in sample EL-A900109 and 3,970 mg/kg in sample EL-A900106 at 22 feet bgs. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/21/2004 |
Long Term Monitoring Established |
The selected remedy for this site is monitored natural attenuation. Monitored natural attenuation was selected because contamination remains in the "smear zone" (The smear zone is defined as the range of depths within which the groundwater will fluctuate under normal seasonal conditions, and therefore, in which free product would move and “smear” the soil in response to these seasonal changes in the water level elevation. The smear zone soils may therefore be saturated or unsaturated with groundwater at any given time.) soil and groundwater in the former UST area. The vadose zone soil contamination has been excavated to the maximum extent practical. Remaining contaminant concentrations in the soil and groundwater exceed the ADEC 18 AAC 75 (January 2003) cleanup levels at this site.
The groundwater monitoring well 409WL08 will be utilized to monitor this site during implementation of the remedy. Well 409WL08 is located downgradient of the former UST area. Groundwater samples will be collected annually and analyzed for DRO and natural attenuation parameters to determine if the plume is attenuating or migrating. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/21/2004 |
Conditional Closure Approved |
After reviewing the data and reports submitted for ST409/7/9, the Department agrees that no additional remediation or investigation is required for ST409/7/9. Additional groundwater monitoring will be required until applicable cleanup levels in Table C of 18 AAC 75.345 are met.
The Base Master Plan needs to be updated to document the location of residual contamination at ST409/7/9 and the need to manage contaminated soil properly during any future construction or excavation work. The Department reserves its rights, under: 18 AAC 75 Contaminated Site regulations, 18 AAC 78 Underground Storage Tank regulations, and AS 46.03 to require additional investigation, cleanup, containment, and/or other necessary actions, if subsequent information indicates: additional contamination remains at the site which was previously undiscovered and presents an unacceptable risk to human health, safety, or welfare, or the environment.
The following policy applies for soil regulated under 18 AAC 75 and 18 AAC 78 that is proposed for disposal off site from where it was generated. If the following criteria is met, ADEC approval and/or an institutional control(s) are not required:
1. The soil meets the most stringent Method Two, Migration to Groundwater, Table B2 cleanup level, and the most stringent standards for those chemicals under Table B1;
2. The soil may only be disposed of at any non-environmentally sensitive location in the Under 40" or Over 40" annual precipitation zone;
3. The soil is not placed within 100 feet of water wells, surface waters, and drainage ditches; and
4.The written approval from the landowner of the off-site location is required.
The off site disposal of all other soil subject to the site cleanup rules that does not meet the criteria above shall be reviewed by the ADEC project manager in order to determine if the off-site disposal action poses a current or future risk to human health or the environment. The final approval to dispose of soil off site that does not meet the criteria shall be made by the ADEC Section Manager. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/26/2004 |
Update or Other Action |
Basewide Groundwater Monitoring General Comment: If PAHs were analyzed for in groundwater at any site where groundwater monitoring was conducted and results were below Table C cleanup criteria, then PAHs may be struck from the analyses in future sampling events. However if analyses for polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), specifically: acenaphthene, anthracene, benzo-a-anthracene, benzo-a-pyrene, benzo-b-fluoranthene, benzo-k-fluoranthene, chrysene, dibenzo-a,h-anthracene, fluorene ideno-123-cd-pyrene, naphthalene, and pyrene, was not conducted, then PAHs analyses will be required during groundwater monitoring until shown to be not of concern (i.e. below Table C cleanup criteria).
Confirmation on Groundwater Monitoring for EC Contaminated Sites on Elmendorf Air Force Base ST407 Text states: The Elmendorf AFB Basewide Groundwater Monitoring Program will be utilized to monitor the natural attenuation of the impacted groundwater. The nearest downgradient monitoring well is OU4W-04, located approximately 3,600 feet to the southwest and 64-WL-01, located approximately 4,800 feet to the south.
The Elmendorf AFB Basewide Groundwater Monitoring Program will no longer exist after this year. Please confirm that your contractor will be monitoring the wells specified in the closure document submitted for this site and that the zone project manager is aware that the monitoring requirements for the compliance wells may be different than what is being required for under the CERCLA program.
For the compliance site known as ST409, the Department will require sampling for DRO in the monitoring well identified above. |
Louis Howard |
| 2/18/2005 |
Update or Other Action |
February 18, 2005 list of sites sent which includes ST409. Well ID 409WL-08 will be sampled on a biannual basis for DRO. Additionally it will be sampled for monitored natural attenuation parameters. Each well presented in the table submitted will be sampled in 2005 to establish baseline COC concentrations. Proposed sampling frequencies would thus take effect in 2006. An annual sampling frequency has been assigned to sites near the OU5 Bluff whereas all other sites received a biannual frequency. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/6/2006 |
Update or Other Action |
2005 Annual Report Monitored Natural Attenuation of Basewide Compliance Program Wells received. Currently, the 3 CES/CEVQ is required by ADEC to monitor the degree to which certain regulated contaminants are naturally attenuating on 27 sites throughout the Base. The natural attenuation of each of these sites is being monitored by sampling and analyzing the groundwater under the contaminated areas and/or downgradient of the contaminated source.
DRO contamination remained in the smear zone soil and groundwater in the former UST area at ST409 in 2001. In 2005, groundwater at monitoring well 409WL-08, located hydraulically
downgradient of ST409, did not have detectable concentrations of DRO. |
Louis Howard |
| 6/20/2007 |
Update or Other Action |
Staff reviewed and commented on the 2006 Annual Report Monitoring of Compliance Program Sites, Elmendorf Air Force Base (EAFB) dated May 2007. ADEC concurs with the recommendations to put a new monitoring well in since none exist for ST407. Analyses will consist of gasoline range organics (GRO), diesel range organics (DRO) and benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and total xylenes (BTEX) since 1994 historical results show these as contaminants of concern. ADEC also concurs with the recommendations in this section regarding groundwater sampling at 409WL-06. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/5/2007 |
Update or Other Action |
Staff reviewed and commented on the Draft Work Plan and Field Sampling Plan Compliance Program Sites, Elmendorf Air Force Base (EAFB) dated June 27, 2007. For ST409 the following well will be monitored: 409WL-06 for DRO.
ADEC has developed a technical memorandum and a Laboratory Data Review Checklist (checklist) summarizing the minimum requirements for both laboratory data packages and quality assurance (QA) summaries (data reduction, verification, evaluation, etc.). All reports submitted by the Air Force which contain analytical laboratory sample results shall contain a completed checklist and a QA summary. The latest checklist is available online at http://www.dec.state.ak.us/spar/guidance.htm#csp and must be completed, signed and dated by the firm submitting the report to ADEC. It is not to be completed by the analytical laboratory that performed the sample analysis. The summary must be included as a specific text section of the report. All laboratory results, including laboratory quality control (QC) sample results, must be reviewed and evaluated for quality, validity and usability. The text must include any effects on data validity and/or usability due to field sampling/laboratory quality control discrepancies.
Upon incorporation of comments regarding the checklist, ADEC will approve the work plans. |
Louis Howard |
| 4/15/2010 |
Update or Other Action |
2009 Annual Report for monitoring of compliance program sites received. Elmendorf AFB site ST407 is located just south of the newly constructed C-17 Hangar, on the north side of the East/West Runway. ST407 is the former location of three USTs that held hydraulic oil, turbine oil and jet propulsion fuel number four (JP-4). The USTs were removed in 1994.
During the 2009 Annual Compliance Monitoring, construction activities for the C-17 Hangar
near the site had been completed. A new in-source monitoring well was therefore installed at the
former UST location, at the southeast end of the new Hangar, as close as possible to the former
USTs. The new well, 407MW-01, was installed using direct-push technology and Geoprobe prepack well screens were installed to complete the well. Groundwater monitoring well 407MW-01 was sampled using the approved procedures provided in the 2008 Final Work Plan (USAF, 2008b). DRO was not detected in the sample above the MDL.
Soil samples were also collected at ST407 during 2009. The drilling and soil sample collection
followed the procedures in Section 5 of the ADEC-approved FSP (USAF, 2008d). Soil samples
were collected at depths known to previously contain the highest concentrations of soil
contaminants (16, 29, and 40 feet bgs) from two boreholes, including the pilot hole for the newly installed well 407MW-01. Seven soil samples were collected including a duplicate sample
collected at 29 feet bgs in one borehole. The sample was analyzed by an analytical laboratory
for DRO. The sample results were below reporting limits (RLs) at all depths.
Following excavation of contaminated soil in 2001, concentrations of DRO were found to still
exceed the cleanup level in confirmation soil samples collected from the floor of the excavation
(the highest concentration was 972 mg/kg).
During 2009, soil and groundwater samples were collected at the former UST site. Sample
results indicated that vadose zone soil and groundwater concentrations of DRO have been
remediated to below cleanup levels. Therefore, it is recommended that this site be given a
“Cleanup Complete” status. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/16/2012 |
Update or Other Action |
Draft Final site closure report received.
Two borings (407BH01 and 407BH02) were drilled during final soil and groundwater verification sampling in 2009 (Attachment B). The boring locations were limited due to the newly constructed building and concrete apron and were located as close to the former UST location as possible. Three soil samples were collected at depths known to previously contain the highest concentrations of soil contaminants (16, 29, and 40 feet below ground surface [bgs]) from each borehole and analyzed for DRO. The sample results were below reporting limits at all depths.
Boring 407BH01 was completed as an in-source groundwater monitoring well (407MW-01). One sample was collected from the monitoring well and analyzed for DRO. DRO was not detected in the sample above the method detection limit.
In accordance with State of Alaska regulation 18 AAC 75, the USAF has completed cleanup
activities at ST407, JBER-Elmendorf.
Analytical results indicate soil contamination levels are below ADEC 18 AAC 75.341 Method
Two, Tables B1 and B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, Migration to Groundwater cleanup levels and groundwater contamination levels are below ADEC 18 AAC 75.345 Table C cleanup levels.
Excavation and soil movement restrictions will remain in place at the site.
ADEC’s review and concurrence on the request for Cleanup Complete with Institutional Controls status is required in accordance with State of Alaska environmental conservation laws and regulations. While ADEC may comment on other state and federal laws and regulations, ADEC’s concurrence on the site closure does not relieve the USAF or its consultants, contractors, subcontractors, or USAF civilian personnel from the need to comply with other applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
The site has been adequately characterized under 18 AAC 75.335 and has achieved the applicable requirements under the site cleanup rules. Cleanup at the site is complete, subject to a
future ADEC determination that the cleanup is not protective of human health, safety, or welfare, or of the environment. ADEC will, as necessary to ensure protection of human health, safety, and welfare, or of the environment, require the USAF to conduct additional actions that meet the requirements of 18 AAC 75 Contaminated Site regulations and Alaska Statute 46.03 – 46.09. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/16/2012 |
Update or Other Action |
Draft Final site closure document received.
DRO concentrations in soil and groundwater exceeded the ADEC 18 AAC 75 cleanup levels.
No contaminants were detected above cleanup levels in groundwater samples for three
consecutive years (2005 through 2007). Remaining DRO contamination in soil above the ADEC
18 AAC 75.341 Method Two, Table B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, Migration to Groundwater cleanup
level is limited to the smear zone.
No contaminants have been detected in groundwater above ADEC 18 AAC 75.345 Table C cleanup levels for three consecutive years. Confirmation soil samples collected in 2002 indicated DRO contamination remained in the smear zone above the ADEC 18 AAC 75.341 Method Two, Table B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, Migration to Groundwater cleanup level; however, no contaminants were detected above cleanup levels in the vadose zone.
Due to the remaining smear zone contamination, groundwater use restrictions will remain in
place at the site. The use of the shallow aquifer for any purpose is not allowed. As long as
hazardous substances remain at levels that preclude unrestricted use, groundwater development
and the use of groundwater for any purpose including but not limited to drinking, irrigation, fire control, dust control, or any activity is prohibited in the shallow aquifer south of the Elmendorf Moraine.
Remaining residual contamination in groundwater and the vadose zone is below regulatory
standards, and site closure with institutional controls is appropriate and protective of human
health and the environment.
In accordance with State of Alaska regulation 18 AAC 75, the USAF has completed cleanup
activities at ST409, JBER-Elmendorf.
Analytical results indicate vadose zone soil contamination levels are below ADEC 18 AAC 75.341 Method Two, Tables B1 and B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, Migration to Groundwater cleanup levels and groundwater contamination levels are below ADEC 18 AAC 75.345 Table C cleanup levels. DRO contamination remains in smear zone soils above the ADEC 18 AAC 75.341 Method Two, Table B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, Migration to Groundwater cleanup level, and groundwater use restrictions will remain in place at the site.
ADEC’s review and concurrence on the request for Cleanup Complete with Institutional Controls status is required in accordance with State of Alaska environmental conservation laws and regulations. While ADEC may comment on other state and federal laws and regulations, ADEC’s concurrence on the site closure does not relieve the USAF or its consultants, contractors, subcontractors, or USAF civilian personnel from the need to comply with other applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
The site has been adequately characterized under 18 AAC 75.335 and has achieved the applicable requirements under the site cleanup rules. Cleanup at the site is complete, subject to a future ADEC determination that the cleanup is not protective of human health, safety, or welfare, or of the environment. ADEC will, as necessary to ensure protection of human health, safety, and welfare, or of the environment, require the USAF to conduct additional actions that meet the requirements of 18 AAC 75 Contaminated Site regulations and Alaska Statute 46.03 – 46.09. |
Louis Howard |
| 3/24/2015 |
Update or Other Action |
Distance to Subsurface Water Right Location: LAS 21684 is 1,446 feet, Customer Name: USDOD USAF 673 CES/CEIEC, Case ID LAS 21684.
THREE DRILLED WELLS WITHIN THE NW1/4NW1/4, SW1/4NW1/4, SECTION
12, TOWNSHIP 13 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, SEWARD MERIDIAN.
THE LOCATION TO WHICH THIS WATER RIGHT APPERTAINS IS:
THE COMPOSITE MEDICAL FACILITY WITHIN THE SW1/4NW1/4, SECTION 12,
TOWNSHIP 13 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, SEWARD MERIDIAN, ANCHORAGE
RECORDING DISTRICT, THIRD JUDICIAL DISTRICT, STATE OF ALASKA.
PWSID: AK2211423
Legacy PWSID: 211423.005
Water System Name: JBER-ELMENDORF
Water System Type: GW
Water System Classification: C
Water System Activity Status: A
State Assigned Source ID: WELL 2
Source Name: HOSPITAL WELL 2 - BLDG 6983
Source Facility ID: 34,182
Source Type: WL
Source Activity Status: A
AND
PWSID: AK2211423
Legacy PWSID: 211423.009
Water System Name: JBER-ELMENDORF
Water System Type: GW
Water System Classification: C
Water System Activity Status: A
State Assigned Source ID: WELL 3
Source Name: HOSPITAL WELL 3 BUILDING 4972
Source Facility ID: 47,500
Source Type: WL
Source Activity Status: A
POC Brandon Bell, 907-552-3985, Bioenvironmental Engineering, 673 AMDS/SGPB, 604 Richardson Drive, JBER, AK 99505. Brandon.bell.1@us.af.mil, Service connections: CM 815, RS 1,195. Population served: R (Residential Area)-15,585 and T (AK-Food Service)-1,786.
Sources of Water: Hospital Well 1 - Bldg 4972 (Active), Hospital Well 2 - Bldg 6983 (Active), Hospital Well 3 Bldg 4972 (Active), WL #43 Hospital B/U Well (Inactive), WL Hospital Well 4 - Bldg 4972 (Inactive), WL Well 1 (Inactive), WL Well 1 - Bldg 23-990 (inactive), WL Well 2 - Bldg 3264 (inactive), WL Well 39 (inactive) and WL Well 42 - Bldg 11-200 (Inactive) |
Louis Howard |
| 12/14/2015 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Staff received and approved the well decommissioning report which covered several sites including this site. |
Louis Howard |
| 9/16/2016 |
Update or Other Action |
Supplemental work plan received for review to address the groundwater sampling, institutional controls (IC) inspection, and landfill cap inspection activities associated with the 2016 Long Term Monitoring (LTM) at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), Sites PL081, CG551, ST408, CG530, SO510, SS522, SO507, SS418, TS003, CG543, CG529, TU107, ST048, CG509, SO508, SO549, AT035, AT029, SS019, and DP009.
As a requirement of the 2016 Environmental Long Term Monitoring contract, the following work shall be performed at JBER Site SO549:
? Perform IC inspection |
Louis Howard |
| 3/22/2017 |
Update or Other Action |
2016 Draft Report for Remedial Action Operation and Land Use/Institutional Control at JBER received for review and comment.
Due to the remaining smear zone contamination, groundwater use restrictions will remain in place at the site. The use of the shallow aquifer for any purpose is not allowed. As long as hazardous substances remain at levels that preclude unrestricted use, groundwater development and the use of groundwater for any purpose including but not limited to drinking, irrigation, fire control, dust control, or any activity is prohibited in the shallow aquifer south of the Elmendorf Moraine. Remaining residual contamination in groundwater and the vadose zone is below regulatory standards, and site closure with institutional controls is appropriate and protective of human health and the environment.
In accordance with State of Alaska regulation 18 AAC 75, the USAF has completed cleanup activities at SO549. Analytical results indicate vadose zone soil contamination levels are below ADEC 18 AAC 75.341 Method Two, Tables B1 and B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, Migration to Groundwater cleanup levels and groundwater contamination levels are below ADEC 18 AAC 75.345 Table C cleanup levels. DRO contamination remains in smear zone soils above the ADEC 18 AAC 75.341 Method Two, Table B2 Under 40-Inch Zone, Migration to Groundwater cleanup level, and groundwater use restrictions will remain in place at the site. ADEC’s review and concurrence on the request for Cleanup Complete with ICs status is required in accordance with State of Alaska environmental conservation laws and regulations (ADEC 2017).
The inspection of Site SO549 revealed no evidence of ground disturbance at this site. Revegetation
did not appear to be occurring and the monitoring wells located at the site were observed to be in good condition. Site inspection photographs at Site SO549 could not be collected due to the level of security at the site, however no evidence was observed that would require site maintenance or repair.
See site file for additional information. |
Louis Howard |
| 5/18/2024 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
DEC submitted comments regarding the 2023 Annual Remedial Action-operations And Long-term Management Report for Select State-regulated Sites Draft, Dated April 2024. The report describes the site inspections, maintenance activities, and groundwater monitoring, at multiple sites located on Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson (JBER), Anchorage, Alaska. Site inspections were recommended to continue for all sites to ensure that conditions remain protective of human health and the environment. The report recommends updating land use controls (LUC) site boundaries at CG534, a ‘Cleanup Complete’ determination without institutional controls (ICs) for SS522, the removal of groundwater LUCs at SS041, and a ‘Cleanup Complete with ICs determination for TU101. |
Ginna Quesada |
| 6/25/2024 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
DEC approved the 2023 Annual Remedial Action-operations And Long-term Management Report for Select State-regulated Sites Final, dated June 2024. The report describes the site inspections, maintenance activities, and groundwater monitoring, at multiple sites located on Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson (JBER), Anchorage, Alaska. Site inspections were recommended to continue for all sites to ensure that conditions remain protective of human health and the environment. The report recommends updating land use controls (LUC) boundaries at CG534, a ‘Cleanup Complete’ determination without institutional controls (ICs) for SS522, the removal of groundwater LUCs at SS041, and a Cleanup Complete with ICs determination for TU101. |
Ginna Quesada |
| 4/15/2025 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
DEC provided comments for the 2024 Annual Remedial Action-Operations and Long-Term Management Report for Select State-Regulated Sites Draft, dated April 2025.The report describes the site inspections, maintenance activities, and groundwater monitoring, at multiple sites located on Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson (JBER), Anchorage, Alaska. Site inspections were recommended to continue for the majority of the sites to ensure that conditions remain protective of human health and the environment. DEC concurs with the recommendation to close SS522 site without ICs, discontinue groundwater sampling at TU107, and reducing the sampling frequency for some wells at TU103. |
Ginna Quesada |
| 5/6/2025 |
Long Term Monitoring Workplan or Report Review |
DEC approved the 2024 Annual Remedial Action-Operations and Long-Term Management Report for Select State-Regulated Sites Final, dated May 2025. The report describes the site inspections, maintenance activities, and groundwater monitoring, at multiple sites located on Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson (JBER), Anchorage, Alaska. Site inspections were recommended to continue for the majority of the sites to ensure that conditions remain protective of human health and the environment. DEC concurs with the recommendation to close SS522 site without ICs, discontinue groundwater sampling at TU107, and reducing the sampling frequency for some wells at TU103. |
Ginna Quesada |
| 4/3/2026 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
DEC provided comments and responses to comments for the 2025 Annual Remedial Action-Operations and Long-Term Management Report for Select State-Regulated Sites Draft, dated February 2025. The report describes the site inspections, maintenance activities, and groundwater
monitoring, at multiple sites located on Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson (JBER), Anchorage, Alaska.
Site inspections were recommended to continue for the majority of the sites to ensure that conditions
remain protective of human health and the environment. DEC concurs with the recommendation to
discontinue monitoring at SD025MW02 and 421WL-02 wells and to proceed with the closure of TU107. |
Ginna Quesada |
| 4/28/2026 |
Long Term Monitoring Workplan or Report Review |
DEC approved the 2025 Annual Remedial Action-Operations and Long-term Management Report For Select State-Regulated Sites Final, Dated April 2026
The report describes the site inspections,
maintenance activities, and groundwater monitoring, at multiple sites located on Joint Base Elmendorf-
Richardson (JBER), Anchorage, Alaska. Site inspections were recommended to continue for the majority of the sites to ensure that conditions remain protective of human health and the environment. DEC concurs with the recommendation to close SS418 site without ICs and the recommendation to discontinue monitoring at SD025MW02 and 421WL-02 wells and to close TU107. |
Ginna Quesada |
