At sites with contaminated soil, it is also common to see impacts in groundwater. However, there may also be groundwater impacts on sites where soil meets acceptable concentration limits.

Groundwater remediation begins with understanding the source(s) of contamination and the nature of the contaminant(s). The environmental consultant will review information on the contaminated area(s) identified through a Phase 2 ESA or other environmental reports, to characterize the extent and type of contamination on site. This process is referred to as contamination delineation and characterization.

During site characterization, groundwater samples are obtained through the installation of monitoring wells in area(s) of potential environmental concern (APECs). Once installed, monitoring wells must be developed and left for 24-48 hours to allow for well recharge prior to sampling

Groundwater analysis of metals, petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and/or other COCs will be undertaken based on the nature of current and past site activities.

Once the contamination zone(s) is characterized and delineated, the environmental engineer will determine an appropriate remedial action plan (RAP) for the site. A remedial strategy is chosen based on hydrogeological characteristics of the site, and the information provided through site delineation and characterization.