Soil Remediation

Soil remediation at LUST sites involves the removal, treatment, or containment of petroleum-contaminated soil to protect human health and the environment. Contaminated soil at UST sites typically contains petroleum hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds like benzene, and potentially fuel additives like MTBE. The goal of soil remediation is to reduce contaminant levels to meet applicable state cleanup standards.

Common soil remediation technologies include excavation and off-site disposal (the most straightforward approach), on-site thermal treatment, soil vapor extraction (SVE) for volatile contaminants, bioventing to enhance natural biodegradation, and landfarming for treating excavated soils. The selection of remediation technology depends on contaminant type, soil conditions, depth of contamination, and site-specific constraints.

Soil contamination at UST sites is often discovered during tank closure activities, property transactions, or routine monitoring. The extent of soil remediation required depends on the volume and concentration of contamination, the proximity to sensitive receptors like drinking water wells, and the intended future use of the property. Cleanup costs for soil remediation at LUST sites can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars depending on the scope of contamination.