| Action Date |
Action |
Description |
DEC Staff |
| 1/23/1987 |
Update or Other Action |
The FAA must consider the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 and the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976, as amended. The Pollution Prevention Act focuses industry, government, and public attention on reducing the amount of pollution through cost-effective changes in production, operation, and raw materials use. The Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 allows the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to track the 75,000 industrial chemicals currently produced or imported into the United States.
Additionally, there are three executive orders that concern solid waste and hazardous materials.
Executive Order 12088, Federal Compliance with Pollution Control Standards was enacted to ensure Federal compliance with applicable pollution control standards in the prevention, control, and abatement of environmental pollution; and consult with the USEPA, State, interstate and local agencies concerning the best techniques and methods available for the prevention, control and abatement of environmental pollution.
Executive Order 12856, Federal Compliance with Right–to-Know Laws and Pollution Prevention Requirements, ensures that Federal agencies provide the public with information on hazardous and toxic chemicals in their communities, establish emergency planning and notification requirements to protect the public in the event of a release of an extremely hazardous substance, and establish a program to reduce the use of toxic chemicals and prevent the generation of pollution.
Executive Order 12580, Superfund Implementation, as amended by Executive Orders 13308, 13016 and 12777, delegates to various Federal officials the responsibilities vested in the President for implementing the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) as amended by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA). |
Louis Howard |
| 1/1/1990 |
Site Added to Database |
Potential contaminants onsite in unknown quantities include petroleum, oil, lubricant wastes, PCBs, solvents, and antifreeze. |
Former Staff |
| 4/9/1992 |
Update or Other Action |
EPA Memorandum April 9, 1992 Reply to the ATTN of ES-098. Subject Toxicity of Fuels. From Carol Sweeney Toxicologist Health and Environmental Assessment Section. To Wayne Pierre Federal Facilities Superfuend Branch (HW-124). A response has been provided to the frequently-asked question of whether a reference dose or other toxicity information can be provided for fuel mixtures so that these mixtures can be addressed quantitatively in Superfund risk assessments. The memo from ECAO Cincinnati is attached (last attachment). They have developed reference doses for gasoline, JP-5/kerosene, and JP-4, and a cancer potency factor for gasoline. The memo emphasizes that these are provisional numbers and that considerable uncertainty is involved in this quantitative assessment, because of data limitations, and because inhalation studies were used to calculate oral reference doses.
I typed up a summary table showing the numbers (first attachment) and calculated some risk-based concentrations (second attachment). On the risk-based concentration table, I also
included ordnance compounds, because I hadn't made a table of those before that I can remember. The risk-based concentrations were calculated the same way as table II-1 and II-2 of the Region
10 Supplemental guidance; for soil, the same limitations apply, that the numbers presented do not consider pathways other than soil ingestion.
Toxicity Reference Vaules for Fuel Mixtures EPA Region 10 4/9/1992 Non-cancer effects-Gasoline (unleaded) RfD (mg/kg-day) Oral: 2.0E-1, Uncertainty Factor-Oral:1000, Level of Confidence-Oral: Low. Toxicity Data Source-Oral RfD: Memo 3/92. Carcinogenicity-Cancer Potency/(mg/kg/day): Oral 1.7E-3, Unit Risk (/ug/m3) 4.8E-7, Cancer Weight Of Evidence-C, Toxicity Data Source-Oral SF and Inhal. SF: Memo 3/1992.
Kerosene/JP-5 RfD2.0E-2, UF Oral: 10,000, LOC Oral: low, TDS Oral RfD: Memo 3/92
JP-4 RfD 8.0E-2, UF Oral: 10,000, LOC Oral: low, TDS Oral RfD: memo 3/92.
Screening Values for Water RBCs based on Ingestion, Residential
Gasoline-Risk = 10-6 (ug/L) 50, 10-4=5000 HI=1 (ug/L) 7000
JP-5 Kerosene Risk 10-6 10-4=NA HI = 1 (ug/L) 700
JP-4 Risk 10-6 10-4 = NA, HI = 1 (ug/L) = 3,000
Screening Values for Soils- RBCs Based on Soil Ingestion Residential
Gasoline-Risk = 10-6 (mg/kg) 400, 10-4 (mg/kg) 40,000, HQ = 1 (mg/kg) 50,000
JP-5 Kerosene Risk 10-6 10-4 NA, HQ =1 5,000
JP-4 Risk 10-6 10-4 NA, HQ = 20,000
IARC concluded that gasoline is possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). IARC concluded that marine diesel fuel is possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), but light diesel fuels and jet fuels are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity in humans (Group 3). |
Louis Howard |
| 11/18/1992 |
Update or Other Action |
November 18, 1992 Decommissioning Assessments Aboveground Storage Tanks 10-B-001 and 10-C-001 (HLA Project No. 20710) received. AGT 10-B-00I was a 750-gallon, diesel fuel, cylindrical steel tank set on blocks outside the southeast corner of Building 450 at the Ralph Wien Memorial Airport at Kotzebue Station. FAA records indicate that AGT 10-B-001 was originally installed in 1980. The tank was partially filled with diesel fuel and in use when HLA arrived to decommission it.
AGT 10-C-001 was a 500-gallon, diesel fuel, cylindrical steel tank set on blocks on the ground surface, situated adjacent to the north side of the NDB Generator Building. The tank provided emergency generator fuel at the FAA's non-directional beacon (NDB) facility in Kotzebue. FAA records indicate that AGT 10-C-001 was installed in 1961. The tank was filled with diesel fuel and in use when HLA arrived to decommission it.
AGTs 10-B-00I and 10-C-00I were removed from service on August 15 and August 23, 1992, respectively. Decommissioning was conducted in accordance with HLA's Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) approved Quality Assurance Program Plan (1991). This document was written in accordance with ADEC's UST regulations (1991), but is also consistent with the ADEC's "Interim Guidance for Non-UST Contaminated Soil Cleanup levels (1991).
Permafrost was encountered between depths of 5 to 10.5 feet bgs. At the time of the decommissioning of the AGTs, groundwater was not encountered beneath AGT 10-B-001. It was encountered at 5 feet bgs beneath AGT 10-C-00I. Groundwater is believed to be within the active thaw zone above permafrost. A single site cleanup level was proposed and utilized because of
the uniformity of site characteristics and FST decommissioning results. Because the ADEC soil cleanup level matrices for UST decommissioning (18 AAC 78.315) are identical to those for non-USTs (ADEC, 1991), the site cleanup level calculated for the USTs was utilized for the AGTs as well. the proposed site cleanup level is 2,000 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) extractable petroleum hydrocarbons (EPH).
Approximately 22 cubic yards of hydrocarbon-contaminated soil was removed and transferred to
the on-site biocell. The presence of buried electrical wires prevented further excavation at the site, and approximately 10 cubic yards of contaminated soil above the site cleanup level was left in place near former AGT 10-B-001. The hydrocarbon-contaminated soil left in place had a concentration of 5,300 mg/kg EPH at sampling location 10-A-3-C7. The nonexcavatable soil was left in place according to ADEC's "Interim Guidance for Non-UST Contaminated Soil Cleanup levels".
Confirmation EPH laboratory testing indicated that soil left in place is below site cleanup levels (2,000 mg/kg DRO Level "D"), and clean closure was obtained. Approximately 3 cubic yards of hydrocarbon-contaminated soil was excavated during the course of decommissioning AGT 10-C-00I and was transferred to the biocell at Ralph Wien Memorial Airport at Kotzebue Station. |
Louis Howard |
| 12/31/1992 |
Update or Other Action |
Environmental Compliance Investigation Report Kotzebue FAA Station Contract# DTFA04-90-C-20014 Task Order # 8 (E&E Inc.). FAA currently owns approximately 174 acres in tbe Kotzebue area. The Living Quarters and H-Marker facilities at tbe Kotzebue FAA Station are located on property
currently owned by FAA Alaskan Region. The Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range
Tactical Air Navigational (VORTAC), former Remote Center Air/Ground Communications
(RCAG), Localizer, visual approach slope indicator (V ASI), Glide Slope, Runway Visual
Range (RVR), and Runway End Identification Lighting (REIL) facilities are located on leased property. All other facilities and sites identified at the Kotzebue FAA Station are formerly
owned property that have received a beneficial use from a subsequent owner and have not been included in this ECIR.
CERCLA concerns requiring further investigation are the basis for the following
recommendations: Conduct an expanded site investigation to further determine the type
and extent of CERCLA-hazardous-substance contaminated soil at the Glide Slope Facility.
POL concerns requiring further investigation at the Kotzebue FAA Station can be
classified as spilled product concerns. It is recommended to: Conduct an expanded site investigation to further determine the type and extent of POL-contaminated soil, surface water, and sediment at the following facilities and sites:
- Living Quarters Facility - Shop Building 201 - contaminated soil;
- Living Quarters Facility - Shed Building 203/307 - contaminated soil;
- Living Quarters Facility - Sewer Shed - contaminated soil;
- Glide Slope Facility - contaminated soil;
- VORT AC Facility - contaminated surface water; and
- Former RCAG Facility - contaminated surface water and sediment.
Other regulatory compliance/management practice concerns require further investigation.
The following is recommended:
• Test ash from the incinerator at the FSS Building 400 for dioxin/furans, PCBs, and metal. Appropriately dispose of incinerator or establish a controlled burn policy in accordance with existing regulations.
• Test one active, oil-filled transformer located at the Shed Building 203/307 for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
• Determine the ownership of three 55-gallon drums located in an FAA-owned marsh at the Living Quarters Facility. Request owners to recover drums and cease further abandonment.
• Sample and test suspected ACM for asbestos at:
- Living Quarters Facility - FSS Building 400
- Living Quarters Facility - Utility Building 301
- Living Quarters Facility - Quarters Building 107
- Living Quarters Facility - Shop Building 201
- H-Marker Facility
- VORTAC Facility
• Determine FAA's responsibility for suspected ACM building materials at the U.S. Air Force-leased Former RCAG Facility. If appropriate, test these materials for asbestos prior to demolition and disposal of the building.
• Investigate the history of three inactive wens reported to be located at the Living Quarters Facility former building sites to ensure that well abandonment procedures complied with ADEC standards.
• Determine ownership of inactive, PCB-containing electrical equipment at the U.S. Air Force-leased Former RCAG Facility. If appropriate, notify owner and dispose of equipment in accordance with TSCA regulations.
• Determine FAA's responsibility for electrical debris located at the Former RCAG facility. Evaluate the compliance of the site with current regulations.
• Determine FAA's responsibility for an empty 55-gallon drum at the Former RCAG Facility. If appropriate, notify the owner and marshall and secure the drum.
No further action is recommended for the RVR and REIL facilities.
Three wells were reported to exist at the Kotzebue FAA Station. Two dug wells were reported to exist near Utility Building 301 at the Living Quarters Facility at the FAA station. The wells were reported to be 17 feet, 11 inches deep and 13 feet, 7 inches deep, respectively. The wells yielded suprapermafrost groundwater, but are no longer in use. Groundwater is not presently used as a drinking water source at the facility or for the City of Kotzebue. The FAA station at Kotzebue derives its water supply from the City of Kotzebue. The city supply is drawn from the VORT AC Lake, which is located across the lagoon from Kotzebue. Water is heated and pumped through an 8,OOO-foot transmission line to the water treatment plant.
See site file for additional information.
|
Louis Howard |
| 2/23/1993 |
Update or Other Action |
Sent PRP-CS Database Notification Letter to Federal Aviation Administration, Attn: Kathy Benediktsson, 222 West 7th Ave, #14, Anchorage, AK 99513-7587. The Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) has established a Contaminated Sites Database Program for the purpose of identifying contamination and tracking cleanup at sites which have the potential to impact public health and the Alaskan environment. This program is used in conjunction with an environmental model known as the Alaska Hazard Ranking Model which provides a priority ranking of contaminated sites in Alaska. The purpose of this letter is to notify you that you have been identified on the Contaminated Sites Database as an owner or operator (responsible party) of a facility or property which is a potentially contaminated site.
It is our desire to present the most complete and up-to-date information regarding contaminated sites in Alaska, and we ask that you review the enclosed materials for any errors or lack of pertinent data. Please update the enclosed contaminated site report and complete the information form to the best of your ability and return them to ADEC within twenty-one days.
Types of sites that qualify for inclusion on the database include abandoned or improperly
disposed hazardous waste, leaking underground or above ground tanks, and hazardous substance spills which are not immediately and completely cleaned up. If you feel that your facility or property does not meet any of the Inclusion Criteria Guidelines please notify the Department as soon as possible. In addition, if a cleanup action has been completed at a site, the site may qualify for a No Further Action Required status.
We believe that under State law, the information about your site on the Contaminated Sites Database is open for review by the public since public health and environmental concerns such as these are generally considered matters of public record. If you disagree, and believe the information should be kept confidential; please notify us within twenty-one days of your receipt of this letter, identifying the legal privilege under the Alaska public records law which you believe applies. We will evaluate your claim and, if necessary, give you an opportunity to seek a court order precluding public disclosure of the information regarding your site.
RP responded with corrections on ADEC site report. |
Jeff Peterson |
| 11/28/1994 |
Update or Other Action |
A spill of 300 gallons of fuel oil from a fuel line being severed at 417 Tundra Avenue (FAA Station) was reported to the Fairbanks office of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) on November 28, 1994. |
Louis Howard |
| 1/19/1995 |
Update or Other Action |
Environmental Restoration Work Plan (HLA Project # 28382) received. Interim cleanup activities identified for the Kotzebue Station will include the following activities: Well inspection and decommissioning will be conducted at the living quarters facility, which is on the south side of the Kotzebue Station, on the edge of Kotzebue Sound. Three drinking water wells, two shallow and one deep, are reportedly located at or near Building 301. One of the wells was located northeast of Building 301 near former Building 152. The locations of the other 2 wells are unknown. Well depths are reported as 13.5', 18' and 82' bgs.
Soil with elevated concentrations of POL and/or CERCLA contaminants are suspected at the following locations:
• Living quarters facility
-Building 201
-Building 203/307
-Building 400
-Sewer shed
• Glide slope facility
• Former RCAG facility
Surface-soil investigations will be performed at these locations to evaluate the presence and
extent of POL and CERCLA contamination associated with past activities, and to assess the need
for remediation at the sites. Elevated POL concentrations are suspected in subsurface soil at Building 201 of the living quarters facility. A subsurface investigation will be performed at this building to evaluate the presence and/or extent of contamination in soil and groundwater. Subsurface conditions will be investigated by drilling soil borings, collecting soil samples for field-screening and laboratory analyses, and installing wells or temporary groundwater probes to collect groundwater samples. The drilling program is intended to be flexible to adapt to conditions discovered in the field.
The following samples from each boring will be sent to the project laboratory for analyses:
• One sample from the interval having the highest level of contamination based on
field-screening results;
• One sample from the deepest interval, if the boring is not advanced to groundwater.
Specific analyses will include VPH, EPH, TPH, oil and grease, and BTEX.
Building 400 is the southernmost building at the living quarters facility and houses the flight service station. A small incinerator used to burn garbage is located south of the building.
Stained soil was observed next to the incinerator. An ash sample will be collected as
described in section 4.2.4 of the QAPP. and will be analyzed for dioxins/furans. PCBs. and metals.
A site cleanup and investigation report will be prepared after analytical results are received from the project laboratory. The report will describe cleanup and investigation activities; will document laboratory analyses. and field-screening and laboratory sampling methods and locations; and will include completed Soil Cleanup Level Estimate sheets (appendix).
The report will describe the environmental concerns identified during the interim cleanup and
the expanded site investigation. including potential migration pathways and receptors. Further
action. investigation. or closure will be recommended where applicable. |
Louis Howard |
| 5/2/1995 |
Update or Other Action |
A second fuel oil spill, of an estimated 500 gallons, occurred at the Kotzebue FAA Station-housing facility located at 417 Tundra Avenue and likewise was the result of a severed fuel line. It was reported to ADEC on May 2, 1995. |
Louis Howard |
| 8/31/1995 |
Update or Other Action |
Fuel Spill Emergency Response Report (E&E Inc.) received. Two fuel oil spills occurred during the fall of 1994 and winter of 1995. Both spills occurred at the FAA's housing facility located at 417 Tundra Avenue in Kotzebue. The spills were the result of two separate incidents of ice and snow falling from the roof of the house and severing a fuel line between the house and the above ground heating fuel storage tank. The goals of the task order were to:
• Provide emergency response actions to contain the spills and minimize soil contamination;
• Treat the contaminated meltwaters resulting from the fuel-affected snow and ice;
• Excavate contaminated soils underlying the spill site; and
• Perform a site assessment to determine the necessity for a release investigation.
The first spill occurred during the fall of 1994. Fuel-contaminated snow was removed from the housing facility and placed on an impermeable liner located at the FAA's airport facility under the direction of FAA's contractor-Harding, Lawson and Associates (HLA). At the FAA's request, E & E and its subcontractor, Drake Construction (Drake), first responded to the site on April 12, 1995, to place the contaminated snow in an impermeable temporary tank. The contaminated snow was then left there to melt in order to treat prior to discharge.
The second spill at the housing facility occurred on May 2, 1995. In response to the spill, E & E mobilized to Kotzebue and, along with Dralce, removed the newly contaminated snow and water, which were placed in temporary storage tanks. On May 16, while waiting for the spill site to dry out and the contained fuel-affected snow to melt, E & E and its subcontractor, Pacific Environmental Corporation (PENCO), traveled to 417 Tundra Avenue to inspect and change out the containment booms and skim floating product from the standing water at the spill site.
Final removal actions were performed during the period from June 14 to June 22, 1995.
Approximately 41,500 gallons of meltwater resulting from the contaminated snow were treated on site and 40 cubic yards of contaminated soils were removed from the spill site. Twenty drums (1,000 gallons) of oily water were collected and sent off site for disposal. All objectives of the task order were accomplished; however, residual contaminated soils from previous spills were left in situ at the spill site. The residual soil contamination appears to be historical in nature and not the result of the two spills responded to under this task order.
Two heating oil spills originated from the housing facility located at 417 Tundra Avenue. An estimated 800 gallons of fuel oil was released to the snowpack during a period in which the permafrost was frozen to the surface. All of the contaminated snow and ice were removed and eventually treated to separate the fuel. Following the spring thaw, approximately 40 cubic yards of contaminated soil was removed from the site. The soils removed were either fuel-stained or showed OVA readings greater than 5 ppm.
At the FAA COR's direction, E & E discontinued the excavation when it became apparent that other older spills in the area had likely impacted the same site and were greatly increasing the estimated volume of soil contamination. Grey-colored soils, which are indicative of aged fuel spills, were noted. In addition, historic contamination extended outside the area in which the spill would have logically been contained.
Soil samples taken at the bottom of the excavation showed ORO results from 72 to 480 mg/kg, with TRPH from 100 to 740 mg/kg. In comparison, background samples ranged from 67 to 23,800 mg/kg DRO and 47 to 30,650 mg/kg TRPH. Only one background sample (95-0TZ-19SL) was taken from a stained soil area. Background sample 95-0TZ-16SL, wbich contained the highest analytical results, was taken from a ditch approximately 200 feet upgradient of and leading toward the spill site.
The background samples appear to confirm allegations that petroleum contamination is relatively ubiquitous in Kotzebue. For this reason, it is unclear what benefit would be derived from a full release investigation. Therefore, E & E does not recommend such a study to further delineate the impacts of the beating fuel oil spills at 417 Tundra Avenue. It is also recommended that FAA issue a safety and maintenance notice to all stations to inspect for the potential threat of ice and snow falling from roofs and severing exposed and elevated fuel oil lines from the adjacent ASTs. If these conditions are found, steps should be taken to stop the snow sliding and shelter the elevated fuel lines. |
Louis Howard |
| 12/29/1995 |
Update or Other Action |
Final SCIR Report (Contract# DACA85-94-D-0011 delivery order no. 0006) received.
Deviations from the scope of work were as follows:
- The stained soil area measuring approximately 9 ft' that was reportedly located approximately
75 ft west of the sewer shed (E&E, 1992) could not be located & was therefore not excavated, or sampled.
- The stained soil measuring approximately 12 ft' that was reportedly located next to the incinerator just south of Building 400 (E&E, 1992) could not be located & was therefore not excavated, or sampled.
- Only one of the two reported former drinking water wells was positively located & decommissioned.
Building 201: Expanded site investigation activities confirmed the presence of hydrocarbon impacted soils. Impacted soils, above ADEC cleanup levels, were found to exist beneath 2 of the 3 floor drains located inside the building. Elevated concentrations of TPH & O&G were also found to exist in these locations. Additional investigation activities being performed in these areas seems unlikely due to the presence of the building's low ceiling. No interim cleanup activities were conducted within the building's footprint.
Building 201 contained three floor drains which were assigned numbers during this investigation. The drain in the west storage room of the building was identified as floor drain #1. Floor drain #1 was constructed with 4 ft deep cement sidewalls. The depth to soil below the floor was 3.3 ft. Floor drains #2 & #3 were located in the main section of the shop building & contained wooden subfloors at approximately 6 inches bgs. The drain in the center of the main room of the building was labeled drain #2, & the drain near the eastern wall was #3.
In drain #1, the Horiba detected POL impacted soils in excess of the upper limit (199.9 ppm) of the instrument. The PID readings of soils from drain #1 ranged from 38 to 169.8 ppm. The reported definitive laboratory results for sample OTZ95SS002S03FD collected from drain #1 at 4.0 ft bgs were; nondetectable at 0.02 ppm for benzene, toluene, & ethylbenzene, 1.6 ppm xylenes, 270 ppm VPH, 32,000 ppm EPH, 33,000 ppm TPH, & 35,000 ppm O&G. At 5.6 ft bgs sample OTZ95SS002S04FD was collected & the reported results were; non-detectable for benzene, toluene, & ethylbenzene, 8.0 ppm xylenes, 442 ppm VPH, 17,000 ppm EPH, 23,000 ppm TPH, & 22,000 ppm O&G.
See site file for additional information.
|
Louis Howard |
| 5/24/1996 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Eileen Olson concurs with Dick Farnell's proposal he received for FAA Kotzebue Soils.
Proposal:
1) Incorporate 350 cubic yards into a sub base course of a road project for 3rd Avenue in Kotzebue;
2) Road will be capped with an asphalt surface (contaminated soil will not be incorporated into the asphalt, but will be made part of the underlying base course);
3) The contaminated soil has been tested and meets Department of Transportation's (DOT's) requirements for use for this application (I have a letter from DOT to this effect);
4) Groundwater in Kotzebue largely subject to saltwater intrusion; City is supplied by a public system utilizing surface ponds some distance away from town;
5) Groundwater is 16 feet below ground surface, meeting underground storage tank (UST) regulatory requirement to be at least 6 ft. below the contaminated soil (soil will be placed in the roadbed prism that will actually be elevated above the normal grade);
6) Average diesel range organics (DRO) levels are 550 ppm, benzene was non-detect (ND);
7) Placement of the soil in the roadbed will conform to UST reg provisions (18 AAC 78.312(d)) with the following exceptions, which I intend to waive (cleared with our Northern UST staff)
- we have discretion to do this as per 18 AAC 78.312 (d):
a) Waive the requirement for a physical design study. REASON: DOT is responsible for doing
the roadbed design - no sense making the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) do this or send us copies of what DOT did.
b) Waive the requirement for doing a leaching assessment.
REASONS: i) The covering surface will be asphalt to a distance at least 18 inches beyond the contaminated layer, as per 18 AAC 78.312(d)(5), so percolation should be minute;
ii) precipitation in Kotzebue is very low, combined with the fact that they will be plowing the road of snow, so even if there are cracks, total precip percolating through and affecting the underlying contaminated soil should be a fraction of the annual precip, as well as affecting an extremely small amount of contaminated soil, if any;
iii) water soluable contaminants are low: benzene was ND, DRO was ave 550 ppm in 1993;
iv) depth to groundwater is 16 ft, and saltwater intrusion in Kotzebue area essentially precludes use of groundwater for drinking anyway.
c) Waive the requirement for an as-built: we can get this from DOT if needed. |
Eileen Olson |
| 12/26/1996 |
Update or Other Action |
Site Assessment Report Bldg. 201 (HLA Project# 31605) received by Rich Sundet (ADEC) on March 1, 1996. In late 1994, the inventory monitoring system of UST 10-B-102 indicated the presence of liquid in the interstitial space, and FAA personnel noticed fuel staining of soil in the interstitial sensor manhole (Manhole A) on the UST.
Fuel release(s) associated with UST 10-B-102 were caused by a combination of overfilling of
the UST and a loose cap in the vent system. On June 15, 1995, the UST was found to be overfilled
so that the UST fill riser was full of fuel. The fuel level was approximately 5 feet above the top of the UST. Consequently, the day tank and the fuel supply, return, and vent piping contained standing fuel to the same elevation. The loose cap in the vent system allowed overfilled fuel to bleed out of the loose cap into Manhole A. from where it seeped into the surrounding ground and into the UST interstitial space through the penetration for the interstitial sensor.
The HLA field team excavated potentially fuel affected soil at the north end of UST 10-B-102.
The excavation was limited by the UST, proximity to adjacent structures, and shallow groundwater. The excavation was terminated in groundwater at approximately 5-1/2 feet below ground surface.
At the bottom of the excavation, evidence of petroleum-contaminated soil was observed, but this soil was not accessible during this cleanup effort. All excavated soil, approximately 4 cubic yards, was placed in 14 55-gallon open-top drums for subsequent disposal. HLA conducted a site assessment. backfilled the excavation with imported soil, and concluded field activities on June 16, 1995.
The estimated soil cleanup level for this site for DRO is 2,000 mglkg. All soil samples collected from the horizontal limits of excavation had DRO concentrations below the estimated ADEC site soil cleanup level. Based on analytical laboratory data. the accessible soil with DRO concentrations above the estimated ADEC site soil cleanup level has been removed.
A small amount of inaccessible. potentially contaminated soil remains within the seasonally thawed zone of saturated soil above the permafrost.
UST 10-B-102 is scheduled to be removed in 1996. when Service Building 201 is scheduled to be demolished. At that time. further sampling may be conducted. No further corrective action or release investigation is recommended at this time. |
Rich Sundet |
| 7/10/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
Timothy Stevens Storage Tank Program sent fax to Regina Williams Platt Environmental-SOA Storage Tank Program abbreviated list of "qualified persons". |
Tim Stevens |
| 7/23/1997 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Email to Scott Berglund
Scott, per our phone conversation today you described in general terms your proposal to utilize the H.A.V.E. System to treat FAA Kotzebue soils that were originally scheduled to be treated last summer via roadbed incorporation but was cancelled due to objection by Kotzebue Public Works.
Treatment via the HAVE system sounds like a very viable option. We have noted good success with
this treatment system on the Kenai Peninsula. In order to provide final approval we would need to have a corrective action plan, but I would like to encourage you in proposing the use of the HAVE system.
Below I have provided some of the experience we have been told about concerning operation of the
HAVE system.
In addition, in accordance with 18 AAC 78.280, Public Participation portion of the UST regulations, I would like to provide some degree of public notice regarding the proposed remediation project. Jim Hayden suggested the following: 1) Post a sign or signs in conspicuous locations at the actual site where the HAVE system will be deployed which contain the following language in at least 1 inch high letters (use of multiple signs at your discretion depending on the physical layout of the site and how individuals will be approaching it).
Issues of Interest Concerning the H.A.V.E. System (from DEC Sources)
1. Contractors have found that they need to put down a layer of sand over the liner first to a) act as insulation from the hot soils above, and b) to ensure that all the contaminated soil receives heat, which it doesn't if the hot air pipes are above the contaminated soil.
2. Kenai costs were approximately $80-100/cyd. It would be more if mobilization costs had to be
added on for remote locations.
3. Average of 12 days to process a given site.
4. Hot air distribution system on 2 foot centers.
5. No DEC air quality permit needed if the catalytic destruction unit is operating on the system.
6. If post-treatment confirmation samples show any hydrocarbon contamination remaining (above
non-detect) it may be advisable to request PAH analysis as the heat converts some of the hydrocarbons over to PAH's - usually not a significant effect.
7. Soil types - Obviously coarse dry soils are the easiest to process and the cheapest (less
processing). Silty soils are capable of being processed, but if they are there may be difficulty with the dried fines acting like concrete securing the distribution piping in place and may require extra effort to extract the piping. Not recommended to do clays and they would probably be baked into ceramic structures.
8. Some soils in the Kenai contained coal - these caused smoking when processed with the HAVE.
9. The HAVE may not be effective at breaking down chlorinated hydrocarbons.
10. Soils with high moisture content will take longer and more energy to process.
11. Contracting - suggest contracting on a per job basis (i.e. to remove hydrocarbons to a given
level) rather than on a time basis, as operator may shut down unit and pull out before treatment has been completed or tried to hurry the process and do a poor job of sampling.
12. Sampling should be from areas determined to be coolest (between the laterals).
13. Should be specifying: processing should be on soils that are bermed; specifiy a minimum level of security, due to hot surfaces and flammable and pressurized gas; runoff is not an issue due to coverings; leaching into native soil not an issue; usually liner thickness on the bottom has been 20-21 mil; processing diesel and gasoline soils is not a problem - lube oil contaminated soils may take longer due to longer chains but is feasible; treatment effectiveness on chlorinated compounds is dubious; catalytic system would need to be installed on the exhaust. |
Dick Farnell |
| 7/28/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
Pre-Field Planning Document-Fuel Storage Tank Management Program Contract# DTFA04-96-D-10002 delivery order# DTFA04-96-F-C0013 received. Project scope of work: disassembly and removal of all components of a bioremediation cell, salvaging a pump, thermistor, and control devices for future FAA use; excavation of approximately 325 c.y. contaminated soil from the biocell for treatment by low temperature thermal incineration or hot air vapor extraction, and backfill of excavation with approximately 187 c.y. of imported clean fill; confirmation soil sampling within the excavated zone to document that removal met established criteria; demolition of a 5,000 gallon AST and secondary containment; and transportation and disposal of all other construction debris and materials to an approved disposal facility.
Soil sampling: 8 soil samples for DRO, RRO, BTEX, in the excvation zone after the removal of soil from bioremediation cell (1 from each sidewall and 3 from base of excavation). 2 soil samples to verify integrity of the FST has not been breached (1 from center where tank was located and one end of the tank area). |
Dick Farnell |
| 7/29/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
Email to Eileen Olson re: FAA Kotzebue Planning Document. FAA Sent Dick Farnell a copy mainly because he had been working on Kotzebue with them regarding the road incorporation proposal last summer.
It doesn't meet the requirements for a treatment plan - that is to come later: they will be using the H.A.V.E. system, will be developing a C.A.P. soon. This document provides for the following:
a) says that they will be excavating the 325 cyds from their biocell;
b) stockpiling it on their property at the airport on two layers of 6 mil each polyethylene liners;
c) drain, purge, and clean the 5,000 H.O.T.;
d) dispose of rinsates & sludges in to 55 gallon drums and transported to Alaska Energy Recovery, Inc. Anchorage;
e) dispose of the demolishe tank, piping,biocell materials (liners, piping, etc.) at an approved landfill facility; f) taking laboratory samples from eight locations in the biocell excavation pit to confirm that cleanup levels were met (4 sidewalls, 3 from floor, one field dupe), and 2 laboratory samples from underneath where the 5,000 gal tank (already
removed) was stored on the surface (tank was removed in 1992 - the biocell was treating the DRO & RRO contaminated soil associated with the tank) - the number of samples for the biocell look good, as the dimensions of the cell are 15 ft X 80 ft. = 1200 sqft, requiring 3 + 4 samples to conform to CS Guidance No. 001, July 17, 1991.
FAA (Eric Helms, filling in for Scott on this project) would like a short OK letter on this plan - I can supply this if this looks ok. Please advise. I would mention in the letter that they would need to field screen the areas being sampled in accordance with the Procedures Manual. |
Dick Farnell |
| 8/7/1997 |
Update or Other Action |
Corrective action plan fuel storage tank (FST) mgt. program contract# DTFA04-96-D-10002 delivery order DTFA04-96-F-C0013 received (mailed to Dick Farnell-ADEC Aug. 3, 1997). Work begins on August 8, 1997. Same number of samples and scope of work from pre-field planning document. Expanded explanation/description added: A-Health&Safety Plan, B-Hot Air Vaport Extraction literature, C-AEI Pacific Inc. Sampling and Analysis Plan, Tables: 1-Analytical quality levels for FAA flight service station in Kotzebue and 2-Soil sampling. |
Dick Farnell |
| 1/25/2000 |
Site Ranked Using the AHRM |
Initial ranking. |
Eileen Olson |
| 9/18/2000 |
Site Visit |
TRIP REPORT KOTZEBUE FUEL STORAGE TANK INVESTIGATION FORMER FAA HOUSING
The purpose of the investigation was to confirm the presence of additional fuel tanks associated with the former FAA housing site. While installing a new utility connection to the FAA ANICS, Kotzebue Electric Association (KEA) encountered a buried fuel tank.
18 September, 2000 -- Arrive OTZ approximately 11:00. The UST encountered by KEA was observed at former FAA Housing Building 110 (WBQC4) in an 8-foot deep excavation. The UST measured 4-foot by 6-foot and contained approximately 3-feet of fuel/water. No visible staining or odor was observed. KEA had placed cones around the perimeter of the excavation. At 8-foot in depth and adjacent to the road, this posed a high safety risk.
Contacted KEA and Telephone Cooperative (OTC) for utility locates. Using FAA reference drawing ALD-101-5X, Living Quarters Layout attempted to locate underground fuel storage tanks (UST’s) via metal detector. Identified locations to excavate. Coordinated with Drake Construction Tuesday’s investigation. KEA arrived site, identified two areas where utility exists.
The site formerly contained 6, Type 41 Housing Structures, 1, Type B Apartment Building, Engine Generator Building, and Shop Storage Building. Directly across the road from the Engine Generator were a 10,000-gallon and a 5,000-gallon fuel tank. Structures were situated along the access road in an approximate south to north array beginning with Quarters Building 100 and ending with Shop/Storage Building 300. South from Building 100 are the Weather Service and the Flight Service Station. The reference drawing indicates each housing unit had a 515-gallon UST, the Apartment Building and Shop/Storage Building had 1,000-gallon UST’s and the Engine Generator Building 3, 515-gallon UST’s.
Due to proximity to the road no excavating was planned for Housing Buildings 100 and 150 (WBQC2). At the Engine Generator Building and the area indicating the 5,000-gallon and 10,000-gallon UST’s no excavating was planned due to an inconclusive metal detector survey and the proximity of the road/airport approach.
19 September, 2000 -- Drake Construction mobilized a Hitachi EX 200 excavator and began backfilling the excavation left open by KEA. OTC arrived and gave all clear in areas being investigated. At former Housing Buildings 151 (WBQC3), 101, 102, and Shop Storage Building 300 excavations located no UST’s. The excavation at former Apartment Building 103, a 1,000-gallon UST measuring approximately 4-feet by 12-feet was located 3-feet below ground surface. The UST contained no liquid and no visible staining or odor was observed. A 2-inch unknown utility conduit is present at this location extending beneath the road to FAA Building 201.
Drake Construction backfilled and compacted all excavations with a CAT 950 loader. All excavations yielded remains of former structures: asphalt, concrete, insulation, piping, wiring, etc. |
Eileen Olson |
| 2/28/2002 |
Update or Other Action |
FST Decommissioning Assessments (CH2MHILL) Contract DTFA 04-01-F-C0007 received for Bldgs 152 UST 10A-004 and 103 UST 10-A-005. A 515 gallon heating oil UST installed during the 1960s was removed from the ground near building 152 (Former living quarters). 2 confirmation soil samples (OTZ01SS002Q01, and OTZ01SS002Q02) were collected from the bottom of the excavation, for laboratory analysis offsite. Diesel range organic (DRO), Gasoline range organic (GRO), BTEX and Total Lead concentrations were below site cleanup levels. Clean imported fill was used to backfill the excavation.
Groundwater was not encountered during tank removal activities. 18 AAC 78 Aug. 27, 2000-GRO 300 mg/kg, DRO 250 mg/kg, RRO 11,000 mg/kg, Benzene 0.02, ethylbenzene 5.5 mg/kg, xylenes 78 mg/kg and total lead 400 mg/kg ADEC Aug. 27, 2000 18 AAC 78 regulations Under 40" zone.
A 1,000 gallon heating oil UST was removed from the ground near Building 103. Groundwater was not encountered during tank removal activities. Two confirmation soil samples and a duplicate sample (OTZ01SS001Q01, OTZ01SS001Q02, and OTZ01SS001Q03) were collected from the bottom of the excavation, for laboratory analysis offsite. Diesel range organic (DRO), Gasoline range organic (GRO), BTEX and Total Lead concentrations were below site cleanup levels. Clean imported fill was used to backfill the excavation. |
Eileen Olson |
| 1/7/2009 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 78630 name: #1 - Living quarters and vicinity |
Evonne Reese |
| 1/7/2009 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 78634 name: #3 - RCAG facility |
Evonne Reese |
| 1/8/2009 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 78633 name: #2 - VORTAC facility |
Evonne Reese |
| 1/8/2009 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 78637 name: #4 - H Marker, Localizer, former CT, and Glide Slope |
Evonne Reese |
| 4/6/2009 |
Update or Other Action |
Project management transferred to Louis Howard. Site file sent to Anchorage office. |
Evonne Reese |
| 6/20/2011 |
Update or Other Action |
UVOST Site Investigation Work Plan-May 2011 Draft received by Fairbanks ADEC office on June 20, 2011. Sent to Anchorage Project Manager on July 7, 2011. This WP was prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Alaska District (USACEAK) to describe the Ultraviolet Optical Screening Tool (UVOST) Site Investigation (SI) to be conducted by USACE-AK at the Kotzebue FAA Station in Kotzebue, Alaska. Start date for mobilization of equipment is July 27, 2011.
USACE-AK was tasked by the FAA to perform a UVOST Investigation at 12 Areas of Concern (AOCs) within the Kotzebue FAA station. The AOCs include former heating oil/diesel fuel above ground storage tanks (ASTs), an abandoned in place diesel underground storage tank (UST), a former gasoline pump facility, & a former gasoline storage area. The AOCs are associated with the FAA Living Quarters Facility & the Very High Frequency Omni-directional Range Tactical Air Navigation (VORTAC) Facility.
The Living Quarters Facility is located on 45 acres of FAA property at the west end of the Kotzebue runway. Both FAA owned & Weather Bureau owned buildings are present within the Living Quarters Area. Eleven of the twelve AOCs to be investigated during this SI are located within the Living Quarters Facility & include:
• Former gasoline pump facility building 602
• Former power plant building 603 which had three diesel ASTs
• Former AST (contents unknown) located north of former carpenter shop
• Former utility building which had three diesel ASTs
• Former housing unit 100 which had a single heating oil AST
• Former housing unit 150 which had a single heating oil AST
• Former housing unit 151 which had a single heating oil AST
• Former housing unit 152 which had a single heating oil AST
• Former housing unit 101 which had a single heating oil AST
• Former housing unit 102 which had a single heating oil AST
• Former gasoline storage area
The ASTs & gasoline pump facility are visible on a 1966 aerial photograph of the Living Quarters Facility. The location of the former gasoline storage area was estimated by the FAA project manager based on historic site photographs. A review of historic aerial photographs indicates that the ASTs & the gasoline pump facility were removed by 1977. Previous investigations have not specifically targeted the former ASTs, gasoline pump facility, & gasoline storage area.
The VORTAC facility is located 1 mile east of the airport & approximately 600 feet south of VORTAC Lake. The area west of the VORTAC is a marsh that drains north into VORTAC Lake. Two small ponds or bogs are located within 100 feet of the VORTAC. One inactive FAA owned UST is located 30 feet west of the VORTAC building. The UST has been reported to be partially buried, soil filled, & rusted. The VORTAC UST AOC is included in this SI.
In 1992 Ecology & Environment, Inc. (E&E) prepared an Environmental Compliance Investigation Report (ECIR). E&E evaluated the VORTAC facility during the ECIR. E&E collected one soil sample, 2 sediment samples, & 1 surface water sample from the VORTAC facility. The surface soil sample was collected from an area of stained soil adjacent to the abandoned UST.
All samples were analyzed for extractable petroleum hydrocarbons (EPH), metals, total recoverable petroleum hydrocarbons (TRPH), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), & volatile petroleum hydrocarbons (VPH). Select samples were also analyzed for pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), & base neutral/acid extractable (BNA). The EPH, VPH, & TRPH results for the samples were not elevated. Additional surface water & sediment samples were collected from VORTAC Lake.
The 12 AOCs included in this SI may have resulted in the spill or release of petroleum, oil, &/or lubricants (POLs) to surface & subsurface soil. The objectives of the 2011 UVOST SI are summarized below:
- Fully delineate the vertical & horizontal extent of POL contamination associated with the 12 AOCs
- Identify the contaminants of concern (COCs) impacting soil at the Kotzebue FAA Station
- Develop a correlation between petroleum contaminants & UVOST results
- Estimate the quantity of POL-impacted soil in excess of the ADEC Table B2 Arctic Zone Cleanup Levels at each AOC.
The 2011 UVOST SI will include at least 62 probe points split between the 12 AOCs. The UVOST probes will be positioned with the objective of delineating the vertical & horizontal extent of POL contamination associated with each AOC. The field team will identify the former AOC structures based on existing building foundations, historic aerial photographs, & GPS data.
See site file for additional information.
|
Louis Howard |
| 12/5/2011 |
Update or Other Action |
2011 UVOST Site Investigation Report received. This Site Investigation Report was prepared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Alaska District (USACE-AK) to present the results from the Ultraviolet Optical Screening Tool (UVOST) Site Investigation (SI) conducted by USACE-AK personnel at the Kotzebue Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Station in Kotzebue, Alaska.
The primary objective of this SI was to fully delineate the vertical & horizontal extent of petroleum contamination associated with the 12 AOCs. The field technology used to accomplish this objective was laser induced fluorescence as employed by the Ultraviolet Optical Screening Tool & a direct push, track mounted probe system.
A correlation between the DRO fraction & LIF was calculated. In an attempt to obtain a correlation for the entire Kotzebue FAA station the field crew collected UVOST correlation samples from multiple AOCs. The fuel impacted soil present at the power plant & carpenter shop AOCs fluoresce differently. The fuel present at the carpenter shop AOC appears to be severely weathered arctic grade diesel/heating oil. The fuel at the power plant AOC is a fresher diesel. Due to the higher PAH content in the fresher fuel the contaminated soil at the power plant AOC displayed a higher LIF response than the carpenter shop AOC. This difference in fluorescence makes a site wide correlation not valid.
Historically USACE-AK has demonstrated that an average effective LIF of 1% equates to approximately 1000 mg/kg DRO for severely weathered arctic grade diesel. The correlation is not applicable to the contamination present at the power plant AOC.
Gasoline Pump Facility
Nine UVOST probes were completed at the gasoline pump facility AOC. Potential fuel signatures were identified at UVOST probe UV-006. Three site characterization samples were collected: one to address the potential fuel signatures at UV-006, one from the permafrost interface at the location of the former gasoline pump facility, & one from a UVOST probe location that displayed elevated background fluorescence. All analytical samples were analyzed for GRO, BTEX, lead, PAHs, ethylene dibromide (EDB), & 1,2-dichloroethane 21 (1,2-DCA). All sample results were either non detect or significantly below the applicable ADEC Method 2 cleanup levels.
Power Plant Building
Forty-one UVOST probes were completed at the power plant AOC. Approximately 10,640 square feet had detectable levels of POL contamination (an average effective fluorescence in excess of 0.25%). Contamination is primarily present at the permafrost interface (typically 8-10 feet bgs). The contamination present appears to be the result of at least two separate releases. Both a severely weathered arctic grade diesel & a fresher diesel fuel were detected. The two POL sources are not separate plumes & appear to mix in the vicinity of probe UV-057. The contamination present appears to have migrated towards the northwest along the permafrost & contacted Kotzebue Sound. Four UVOST probes were positioned at the ocean/beach interface (Appendix A, Photo 7). Two of the probes had elevated fluorescence due to POL contamination. As discussed in section 4.1 the DRO/LIF correlation is NOT applicable to the Power Plant AST AOC due to the fresher fuel encountered at this location.
See site file for additional information.
|
Louis Howard |
| 12/14/2011 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Staff reviewed and commented on the Draft UVOST Site Investigation Report.
Table 4-2 ADEC requests the UVOST correlation sample results be listed on Table 4-4 Soil Investigation Results and on Figure 3.
Sample data from 11OTZ11RC and 11OTZ12RC must be included in the correlation calculations. No data should be excluded once collected unless there is quality control issues regarding the
data that will exclude it or it did not have a corresponding LIF data point for correlation.
4.1 Correlation data will not substitute for the required laboratory samples despite what the correlation is between petroleum contaminants (e.g. DRO) and any screening technology being used (e.g. UVOST).
Table 4-5 ADEC requests the text or table refer to the exact regulatory level which is being exceeded by the contaminants of concern (e.g. migration to groundwater, direct contact or outdoor inhalation) listed in Table 4-5.
4.3 The UVOST (a field screening device) will not substitute for confirmation samples (definitive data) in delineating the vertical and horizontal extent of contamination at each area of concern. The linear correlation between LIF response and DRO concentrations is not relevant to demonstrate actual exceedances of the default cleanup level for the FAA Station sites (12,500 mg/kg). Only laboratory data is accepted to determine compliance with cleanup levels, nature and extent of contamination and not be based on average effective LIF values in excess of a set percentage amount.
4.3.3 DRO is present in excess of applicable ADEC cleanup level of 12,500 mg/kg. Regardless of handling procedures for correlation samples used for this site, soil appears to be contaminated with DRO in excess of cleanup levels.
4.3.4 The foundations supports were installed with sonotubes not “sauna tubes”.
5.0 ADEC concurs with the recommendations in this section. However, plume delineation was not conducted with definitive data and use of field screening to characterize nature and extent of contamination at a site is only inferred not accepted without definitive data. DRO is present at the carpenter shop AOC in excess of applicable ADEC cleanup level at 16,000 mg/kg (3.0-4.5’ bgs UV-025 11OTZ07RC).
9 ADEC’s contaminated sites regulations have been updated.
ADEC. 2011. Oil and Other Hazardous Substances Pollution Control, 18 AAC 75, October 1, 2011.
|
Louis Howard |
| 2/13/2012 |
Update or Other Action |
EPA (Anne Christopher) sent results from FAA investigation at three floor drains associated with Building 201. Draft Injection Well Closure Report FAA Kotzebue Station, Contract# DTFAAL-10-D-000003, TO #0004.
Three primary samples were collected from Drains No.1, No.2, and No.3 from 48 inches, 33.5
inches, and 33 inches below floor grade, respectively. End point samples were designated
OTZ11SS01S, OTZ11SS02S, and OTZ11SS04S for Drains No.1, No.2, and No.3, respectively. A duplicate soil sample was collected from Drain No.2 and designated OTZllSS03S.
Results above Method 2 Table B, Arctic Zone.
Floor drain no. 3 OTZ11SS04S 14,200 mg/kg DRO (12,500 mg/kg Ingestion/Inhalation), 7.27 mg/kg Arsenic (6.1 mg/kg direct contact 3.9 MGW), 43.1 Chromium (25 mg/kg MGW), 1,2,4-Trimethylbeneze 24.7 mg/kg (23 mg/kg MGW) and 2-Methylnaphthalene 15.8 mg/kg (6.1 mg/kg MGW).
The highest concentration ofDRO soil contamination was found at Drain No.3 in the south east area of Building 201. Additional testing would be required to determine ifthe chromium detected is the highly toxic hexavalent chromium (Cr +6) for which the migration to groundwater (MTOW) cleanup level is based. The cleanup level (direct contact) for trivalent chromium (Cr +3) is 152,000 mg/kg. It should be noted that a number of detection limits (DLs) for VOCs and SVOCs were greater than their respective cleanup levels.
Injection Well No. 1 was constructed of a floor sump measuring 1 foot square and with an
open bottom reportedly at approximately 3 feet bgs. Injection Well Nos. 2 & 3 was constructed of a floor sump measuring 1.5 foot by 1.5 foot and with an open bottom reportedly at approximately 1.5 feet bgs.
Closure of IW Nos. 1, 2 & 3 were completed by removing accumulated sediment from sump and filling the sump with clean soil to 6 inches below the floor surface and then capping the remainder of the sump with concrete. Physical closure of IW No. 1 was completed in accordance with EPA regulations and the approved WCP.
One analytical soil sample was collected from the point of discharge prior to filling and capping the sump. Results from the sample suggest that IW No.3 was used for disposal of more
hazardous waste or more recently that the other two IWs. |
Louis Howard |
| 5/29/2012 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Staff reviewed and commented on the Draft Work Plan and SAP/QAPP Kotzebue FAA Station,
Kotzebue, Alaska dated May 2012.
Qualified Person
ADEC requests the FAA identify the "qualified person(s)1" involved in this project (i.e. field samplers or person that will directly supervise2 the personnel in the field conducting the sampling) ADEC will require the next version of the work plan to include the following:
A cover Page with the
oName and signature of the "qualified person" responsible for collecting samples.
o Name and signature of the "qualified person" responsible for interpreting the data.
o Name and signature of the "qualified person" responsible for reporting the data.
oDEC file number and Contaminated Sites Database Hazard ID # 814
Resume'
Please provide a copy of the resume' in an appendix or new section (e.g. 5.0) for
each "qualified person" involved in this project that demonstrates that they meet
the regulatory requirements of 18 AAC 75.990 (100).
Conceptual Site Model
ADEC requests a preliminary CSM be included with the next revision of this work plan.
1.4 Project Objectives
The Investigative Report is intended to propose any additional site characterization
required to identify the limits of contaminated soil and groundwater, interim
cleanup actions, or, if the site characterization is considered to be complete, how
the contamination will be cleaned up [18 AAC 75.335 (c) and (d)].
Table 1-2 Schedule of Activities
The table lists four working days as a review by ADEC of the work plan. Typically, thirty (30) days is required for review and comment by ADEC on work plans. ADEC is providing FAA an expedited review of the work plan as a favor to FAA and do not expect abbreviated review times in future schedule of activities.
2.2. Excavation Activities
The samples from the excavations will include the sidewalls as required by the ADEC's Draft Field Sampling Guidance (May 2010) in addition to the excavation bottoms as mentioned in this section.
As a one-time site specific approval, ADEC will allow the FAA to place excavated soil back in the excavation. ADEC will require the FAA to address, in a timely manner, the soil (e.g. further site characterization, remediation and/ or disposal) which was placed in the excavation, if sample results are above applicable cleanup levels.
Finally, ADEC requests the FAA reconsider the idea of limiting the test pits to 3' by 3 '. The small area size seems unreasonable considering the depth of the excavation and possible sloughing of the sidewalls which would require expanding the size of the excavation. ADEC requests the FAA use trenches in lieu of test pits (especially at TP-UV047 where the area of LIF response is larger relative to the other test pit locations.
2.3 Field Screening and Laboratory Sampling Overview
ADEC requests the FAA increase the size of the test pit (if the FAA does not use trenches as requested above) at TP-UV047 to 6' by 6' instead of the proposed 3' by 3' due to this area being the largest average effective LIF response.
Figure 2-1
12012 Test Pit Locations
ADEC will require additional characterization to determine the horizontal extent of soil contamination if the sidewall sampling results are above applicable cleanup levels (especially in the area ofTPUV-47 which is inferred to be have high LIF results). ADEC requests the FAA clarify on how the test pits will give an accurate estimate on extent and volume of soil contamination present based on the proposed test pits (18 AAC 75.335. Site characterization. (a) Before proceeding with site cleanup under the site cleanup rules, a responsible person shall characterize the extent of hazardous substance contamination at the site.) This information is necessary to conduct any future remova/cleanup action. |
Louis Howard |
| 6/8/2012 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Sent via email to Scott Berglund (FAA): ADEC has received and reviewed the final work plan for test pit investigation at the Kotzebue FAA station. ADEC will approve the work plan for implementation.
ADEC’s review and comment on this work plan is to ensure that the work is done in accordance with State of Alaska environmental conservation laws and regulations. While ADEC may comment on other state and federal laws and regulations, our comments on the work plan does not relieve responsible persons from the need to comply with other applicable laws and regulations.
The FAA is responsible for the actions of contractors, agents, or other persons who perform work to implement the approved work plan. For any activity that significantly deviates from the approved plan, the FAA shall notify the ADEC and obtain written approval in the form of a work plan amendment before beginning the activity.
Any action taken by the FAA, or an agent of the FAA, that increases the project's overall scope or that negates, alters, or minimizes the intent or effectiveness of any stipulation contained in this work plan will be deemed a significant deviation from the approved plan. The final determination as to the significance of any deviation and the need for a work plan amendment is the responsibility of the ADEC. Therefore, it is recommended that the ADEC be consulted immediately when a significant deviation from the approved work plan is being considered. |
Louis Howard |
| 7/10/2012 |
Update or Other Action |
Draft Kotzebue FAA Station Test Pit Investigation Report received.
A Test Pit Investigation was performed at two Areas of Concern (AOCs) at the Kotzebue Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Station in June 2012. Five test pits were excavated in areas recommended for further investigation by the 2011 Ultraviolet Optical Screening Tool (UVOST) Site Investigation (SI) (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers [USACE] 2012a). The Carpenter Shop and Power Plant AOCs were evaluated during this Test Pit Investigation. The 2011 UVOST report indicated that contamination in these two AOCs is separated and distinct.
Soil in excess of the Method Two Arctic Zone Ingestion/Inhalation soil cleanup level of 12,500 milligrams per kilogram (mg/Kg) for diesel range organics (DRO) was identified within the Carpenter Shop AOC. A sample collected from Test Pit TP-UV012 exceeded the cleanup level with a DRO concentration of 13,900 mg/Kg. Previously, USACE collected a sample from boring UV025 (approximately 40 feet south of TP-UV012) with a DRO concentration of 16,000 mg/Kg. Both samples were collected from a depth of approximately 3 feet below ground surface (bgs). The Test Pit Investigation identified a black stained soil interval at both of these locations from approximately 3 to 4.5 feet bgs confined by a thin organic layer.
Based on the similarities and the locality of these samples, it is reasonable to assume that the soil contamination may be restricted to the band of discolored soil. Based on the two DRO exceedences described above and the UVOST delineation results for this site, the volume of contaminated soil exceeding the Method Two Arctic Zone Ingestion/Inhalation soil cleanup level of 12,500 mg/Kg is estimated to not exceed 150 cubic yards. The Work Plan indicated that a removal action would be performed if analytical results exceeded applicable cleanup levels. The removal action should focus on excavating the black-stained contaminated soil that was identified in the test pits and the UVOST investigation borings.
While no samples at the Power Plant AOC were in excess of the Method Two Arctic Zone Ingestion/Inhalation soil cleanup level of 12,500 mg/Kg for DRO, oily soils were identified in Test Pit TP-UV079 which was installed approximately 12 feet above (east) of the tide line of the Kotzebue Sound. Oily soils were encountered from approximately 4 to 5.5 feet bgs and black stained soil was identified in this test pit at a depth of approximately 5.5 feet bgs. A water sample collected from this test pit did not exceed surface water criteria, however, it exhibited a DRO concentration of 1.75 milligrams per liter (mg/L). Further evaluation of the potential impact to the Kotzebue Sound associated with the Power Plant AOC soil contamination may be warranted.
One soil sample from Test Pit TP-UV079 exceeded the Method Two Arctic Zone soil cleanup level for the Direct Contact pathway of 0.66 mg/Kg for benzo(a)pyrene. However, benzo(a)pyrene is likely associated with buried creosote pilings identified in the test pit, and the extent of benzo(a)pyrene contamination is likely isolated and de minimis. No other polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were detected in excess of Arctic Zone soil cleanup levels at the Power Plant AOC.
See site file for additional information.
|
Louis Howard |
| 7/12/2012 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Staff reviewed and commented on the Draft Test Pit Investigation for Kotzebue FAA Station.
Cover Page “Qualified Person”
The FAA shall include a cover page with the Name and signature of “qualified person ” responsible for collecting samples; the Name and signature of “qualified person” responsible for interpreting the data; and the Name and signature of “qualified person” responsible for reporting the data. No mention of any “qualified person” or “qualified persons” was included in the report. The UVOST operator(s) for the work conducted in 2012 was not identified nor who interpreted the UVOST data.
4th paragraph Executive Summary
There is no definition in ADEC’s regulations or guidance regarding “de minimis.” ADEC agrees the one sample from TP-UV047 of 0.889 mg/kg benzo(a)pyrene is likely be isolated and associated with the buried creosote pilings that were used as a treated piling foundation. Please remove any reference to the work “de minimis” from the report.
2.4 Field Screening and Laboratory Sampling Overview
Please provide any pictures in the report of the test pit to document that no floating oil, film, sheen, discoloration was present or refer reader to appendix C in the report where these pictures are located.
2.7 Work Plan Deviations
A PID or any field screening device shall not substitute for confirming the presence or absence of contamination in soil beneath unlined stockpiles. A minimum of one sample each shall be taken from the three unlined temporary stockpile locations. The sample will be taken from area with the highest PID reading recorded for each stockpile and analyzed for DRO and PAHs.
3.5 Test Pit TP-UV079 (Power Plant AOC) Water Sample Results
See comment #3 regarding the request for photo documentation on observations for water quality.
Figure 3-1 Test Pit TP-UV012 PID Field Screening Results
The FAA shall collect a sample for DRO and PAHs from TP12-81 PID screening location for the temporary stockpile.
Figure 3-2 Test Pit TP-UV025 PID Field Screening Results
The FAA shall collect a sample for DRO and PAHs from TP25-61 PID screening location for the temporary stockpile.
Figure 3-4 Test Pit TP-UV-047 PID Field Screening Results
The FAA shall collect a sample for DRO and PAHs from TP47-76 PID screening location for the temporary stockpile.
|
Louis Howard |
| 7/25/2012 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Staff commented on the draft Work Plan Petroleum Contaminated Soil Removal and the Draft Sampling and Analysis Plan for the Kotzebue FAA Station, Kotzebue, Alaska July 2012.
Cover Page Draft Work Plan
“Qualified Person”
The FAA shall, in accordance with 18 AAC 75.335(b)(1): include a cover page with the Name and signature of “qualified person ” (for both the draft and final versions) responsible for preparing the work plan. The approval page does not contain any signatures. The approval page does provide a list of people, who reviewed and approved the work plan, but none were identified as the “qualified person” that prepared the work plan nor were there any signatures.
The words “qualified person” does not appear in the entire work plan. Please provide specific information on the “qualified person(s)” from Ahtna Engineering Services, LLC that prepared the work plan. ADEC requests the FAA provide specific information regarding their educational background and work experience they have which makes them a “qualified person” in accordance with 18 AAC 75.990 (100).
1.0 Introduction
ADEC’s Draft Field Sampling Guidance has been updated since January 2010. Please correct text and list of references at Section 6.0 with the correct date (May 2010).
1.4 Field Activities and Personnel
A minimum of one sample each shall be taken from the three unlined temporary stockpile locations. The sample will be taken from area with the highest PID reading recorded for each stockpile and analyzed for DRO and PAHs.
2.1.4 Test Pit TP-UV012
The FAA shall collect a sample for DRO and PAHs from TP12-81 PID screening location for the temporary stockpile. The text (TP12-18) in the Sampling and Analysis Plan conflicts with Figure
3-1 Test Pit TP-UV012 PID Field Screening Results (Test Pit Investigation Report July 2012). Please correct text to properly reflect the field screening location that will be sampled.
Table 4 Sample Analysis Method
Sample container for PAH analysis of soil shall use 4-oz amber glass with Teflon® lined screw caps (ADEC’s “Draft Field Sampling Guidance” Appendix D, May 2010) not simply a “glass container”.
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Louis Howard |
| 9/20/2012 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Approved the final injection well closure report documenting the permanent closure of three floor drains at Building 201. The floor drains were constructed of concrete sided sumps with open gravel bottoms. The sumps were filled with clean material and capped with concrete. Samples were collected from beneath the floor of each of the sumps before closure. Results from Drain 1 show arsenic above the cleanup level. Results from Drain 2 show arsenic and cadmium above the cleanup level. Results from Drain 3 show diesel range organics, arsenic, chromium, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzen, and 2-methylnaphthalene above the cleanup level. |
Melody Debenham |
| 2/12/2013 |
Update or Other Action |
DRAFT REMOVAL ACTION REPORT PETROLEUM CONTAMINATED SOIL REMOVAL KOTZEBUE,ALASKA Contract Number W911KB-12-C-0020 received.
The main objective of this RA was to restore the site to conditions that are protective of human health and the environment and to facilitate site closure in accordance with Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) regulations. The work was performed in conformance with Contract documents including the task Scope of Work (SOW) provided in the ADEC-approved Work Plan (WP) (AES, 2012) and local, state, and federal regulations and laws.
AES proposed the ADEC Method Two, Arctic Zone, Ingestion/Inhalation cleanup levels of 12,500 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) for diesel range organics (DRO) and the ADEC Method Two, Arctic Zone, Direct Contact cleanup levels for polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) for the Kotzebue FAA Station site in the Draft WP (AES, 2012). ADEC approved the WP on August 3, 2012.
A total of 147 tons of soil with petroleum contaminant concentrations greater than the Ingestion/Inhalation and Direct Contact cleanup levels were removed from the former Power Plant Area of Concern (AOC) and Carpenter Shop AOC at the Kotzebue FAA Station site. Discrete sampling procedures were used to confirm that contaminant concentrations in soil remaining at the excavation limits were less than the Ingestion/Inhalation and Direct Contact cleanup levels.
Samples were submitted to an offsite ADEC-approved laboratory for analysis. Analytical results for confirmation samples collected at the final excavation limits indicate that all soil with petroleum contaminant concentrations greater than the Ingestion/Inhalation and Direct Contact cleanup levels has been removed.
The excavated petroleum-contaminated soil was placed in Super Sacks, which were then secured in fully-enclosed storage containers at the project site and transferred to the barge landing in Kotzebue. In September 2012, excavated soil was transported to Arlington, Oregon for disposal at a permitted landfill. The excavation was filled with clean backfill, compacted and returned to original grade. Areas disturbed by project activities were compacted with a plate compactor and re-graded using heavy equipment.
Soil remediation activities and all supporting analytical data indicate that the RA goals for this site have been performed to meet ADEC site closure requirements. All residual soil impacted with petroleum contaminant concentrations greater than the Ingestion/Inhalation and Direct Contact cleanup levels has been removed and properly disposed of in a regulated and approved landfill. AES recommends that ADEC grant Cleanup Complete status without institutional controls for the Kotzebue FAA Station site based on the results of this RA.
See site file for additional information.
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Louis Howard |
| 3/4/2013 |
Update or Other Action |
The Alaska Department of Environmental onservation (the department) has received the above document on February 12, 2013 for review and comment for Kotzebue FAA Station, ADEC CS DB Hazard ID 814. The department concurs that the FAA has successfully removed petroleum contaminated soil greater than the 18 AAC 75.341 Tables 81 and 82 Method Two, Arctic Zone, direct contact and ingestion/inhalation cleanup levels from the Power Plant and Carpenter Shop.
In accordance with 18 AAe 75.380(d). the department has determined that cleanup is complete at the Power Plant AO (former Building 603) and the Carpenter Shop A OC, located approximately 100' to the north of the existing carpenter shop (Building 602). This decision is subject to a future department determination that the cleanup is not protective of human health. safety, or welfare or of the environmenL The FAA shall obtain department approval before disposing of soil or groundwater from these two sites. Movement or use of the contaminated soil in a manner that results in a violation of 18 AA 70 water quality standards is prohibited. The report is approved and may be finalized. |
Louis Howard |
| 5/13/2015 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Staff provided comments on the draft work plan for remedial action. Main comments were on use of the XRF field screening device with soils that have a moisture content above 20% which will impact the results. Therefore, it was recommended that the soil be dried out prior to screening. Additional comments were made about reducing sample matrix effects by sieving all soil samples in accordance with EPA guidance. Finally comments were mace that calibration checks of the XRF device be recorded and an SOP be provided which will be used for the XRF operation.
See site file for additional information. |
Louis Howard |
| 6/3/2015 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (the department) has received Final Work Plan for Remedial Action at FAA Former Flight Station, Kotzebue, Alaska dated May 2015 on May 28, 2015. ADEC has no further comments on the document and will approve the final work plan. ADEC’s review and comment on this work plan is to ensure that the work is done in accordance with State of Alaska environmental conservation laws and regulations.
While ADEC may comment on other state and federal laws and regulations, our comments on the work plan does not relieve responsible persons from the need to comply with other applicable laws and regulations. The FAA is responsible for the actions of contractors, agents, or other persons who perform work to implement the approved work plan. For any activity that significantly deviates from the approved plan, the FAA shall notify the ADEC and obtain written approval in the form of a work plan amendment before beginning the activity.
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Louis Howard |
| 6/3/2015 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
ADEC approved the final version of the work plan for remedial action at the FAA former flight station.
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (the department) has received the Final Work Plan for Remedial Action at FAA Former Flight Station, Kotzebue, Alaska dated May 2015 on May 28, 2015. ADEC has no further comments on the document and will approve the final work plan. ADEC’s review and comment on this work plan is to ensure that the work is done in accordance with State of Alaska environmental conservation laws and regulations. While ADEC may comment on other state and federal laws and regulations, our comments on the work plan does not relieve responsible persons from the need to comply with other applicable laws and regulations. The FAA is responsible for the actions of contractors, agents, or other persons who perform work to implement the approved work plan. For any activity that significantly deviates from the approved plan, the FAA shall notify the ADEC and obtain written approval in the form of a work plan amendment before beginning the activity.
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Louis Howard |
| 8/4/2016 |
Site Characterization Report Approved |
DEC approved the Final FAA Flight Service Station and National Weather Service Remedial Action Report. The remedial action report described the field methodology, schedule, regulatory requirements, and waste management for the removal of lead-contaminated soil at the Kotzebue Flight Service Station (FSS) and National Weather Service (NWS) buildings. Lead-contaminated soil at the FSS and NWS was delineated using an X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF). Approximately 7 cubic yards of lead-contaminated soil was excavated. Prior to disposal, excavated soil was characterized as Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)-regulated waste or non-RCRA regulated waste and disposed of accordingly. Analytical soil sampling results indicated that all soil with lead concentrations greater than the DEC Method Two Cleanup Level for residential land use was removed from the site. |
Joy Whitsel |
| 8/21/2017 |
Site Characterization Workplan Approved |
DEC approved the Site Investigation and Debris Removal Work Plan for the Former Flight Station (FSS) and Former Housing Quarters. The primary objective at the former FSS is to assess the potential for contamination in the area surrounding a spent-solvent drywell. The primary objectives at the former FAA housing facility are to assess the potential for contamination as a result of former FAA activities and personal property at the site, as well as to remove and dispose of miscellaneous debris, which includes solid waste, abandoned personal property, and potential hazardous materials. |
Joy Whitsel |
| 9/22/2017 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 80137 name: Building 417 |
Joy Whitsel |
| 9/22/2017 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 80138 name: FAA Living Quarters USTs 10-A-004 and 10-A-005 |
Joy Whitsel |
| 10/6/2017 |
Update or Other Action |
Per FAA request, a letter was issued concurring that cleanup has been completed for three areas of concern (AOCs): Building 417 and USTs 10-A-004 and 10-A-005. These AOCs are not being tracked separately within the DEC database, and therefore the this file number and hazard ID will remain active, but no further action will be required for the three AOCs named above. |
Joy Whitsel |
| 1/26/2018 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
REPORT REVIEW: Draft Site Characterization and Debris Removal for FAA's Flight Service Station (FSS) and Housing Facility in Kotzebue, AK. ADEC sent comments to FAA and advised that FAA needs to work with EPA to ensure proper closure of the dry well. Received a same-day response from FAA indicating that FAA will start planning the remedial action for the FSS dry well location and closure with the EPA. |
Jamie McKellar |
| 2/12/2018 |
Update or Other Action |
RTC RESPONSE: FAA to DEC, Draft Site Characterization and Debris Removal for FAA's Flight Service Station (FSS) and Housing Facility in Kotzebue, AK. |
Jamie McKellar |
| 2/21/2018 |
Update or Other Action |
RTC RESPONSE: DEC to FAA, for Draft Site Characterization and Debris Removal for FAA's Flight Service Station (FSS) and Housing Facility in Kotzebue, AK. |
Jamie McKellar |
| 4/22/2019 |
Update or Other Action |
Site reassigned to DEC PM John O'Brien. |
Jamie McKellar |
| 5/20/2019 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
WORK PLAN APPROVAL: 1) Kotzebue Drywell Closure 2) Kotzebue Remedial Investigation and Remedial Action (Brice Environmental, October 2018) |
Jamie McKellar |
| 11/6/2019 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 80505 name: Former Sewer Shed |
Jamie McKellar |
| 11/7/2019 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 80506 name: VOR Bldg 409 Former UST |
Jamie McKellar |
| 11/27/2019 |
Exposure Tracking Model Ranking |
Initial ranking with ETM completed for source area id: 80504 name: VOR Building 409 Bog |
Jamie McKellar |
| 1/13/2020 |
Update or Other Action |
A No Further Action Letter was issued for three areas of concern at FAA Kotzebue: 1) - Former Sewer Shed 2) VORTAC Building 409 Former UST, and 3) VORTAC Building 409 Bogs #1 and #2. The file number (410.38.001) and Hazard ID (814) associated with the FAA Kotzebue Former Flight Station will remain open until all AOCs are closed.
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Jamie McKellar |
| 1/16/2020 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
REPORT APPROVAL: Final Kotzebue Remedial Investigation and Remedial Action Report, Kotzebue, Alaska (Brice Environmental, January 2020) |
Jamie McKellar |
| 11/22/2021 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Draft RI Report for Former FSS GW temporary monitoring well and sampling.
12/7/2021 Comments sent to RP. Final copy of report received 1/26/2022. Comment table sent back for review. 2/24/2022 Final report received and approved. |
Shonda Oderkirk |
| 1/30/2023 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Received draft work plan for FSS and Bld 301. 2/28/2023 Comments sent. 3/29/2023 RTC received. 5/26/2023 Further comments sent regarding GAC calculations. 5/31/2023 Approval for final work plan sent. |
Shonda Oderkirk |
| 11/20/2023 |
Document, Report, or Work plan Review - other |
Draft report for Building 301 remedial investigation received. 12/7/2023 Comments sent to RP. |
Shonda Oderkirk |
| 3/19/2024 |
Site Characterization Report Approved |
REPORT APPROVAL: Final Kotzebue FAA Station Building 301 Remedial Investigation Report, Kotzebue, Alaska (Brice Solutions, February 2024). |
Sophia Bracio |
| 5/23/2024 |
Site Characterization Report Approved |
REPORT APPROVAL: Final Kotzebue FAA Station Former FSS Building Remedial Action Report, Kotzebue, Alaska (Brice Solutions LLC, May 2024) |
Sophia Bracio |
