Frequently Asked Questions about Monitored Natural Attenuation in the 21st Century
ER-201211
Objective
Monitored natural attenuation (MNA) can be used to manage long-term obligations at contaminated sites. The objective of this project is to prepare a technically sound and concise guidance document answering frequently asked questions about MNA that will aid in the understanding and implementation of MNA. This effort will extend and complement existing work (e.g., Natural Attenuation of Chlorinated Solvents by Wiedemeier, Rifai, Newell, and Wilson, 1999); provide resources and key information about new MNA technology breakthroughs (e.g., compound-specific isotope analysis, molecular biological tools); present new developments in how MNA is applied (e.g., source zone MNA); present MNA solutions and approaches for a wide variety of constituents (e.g., inorganics, radionuclides); provide context for how emerging fate and transport processes (e.g., matrix diffusion) impact the application and attractiveness of MNA; and introduce new concepts about site management (e.g., "low-risk" site management).
Technology Description
The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) format has been used to develop technical overview documents for similar remediation topics, including chlorinated solvent releases (Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Management of Chlorinated Solvents in Soil and Groundwater, published in 2008 as part of ESTCP project ER-200530). The FAQ format is characterized by a series of one-sentence "questions" followed by technical "answers" that cover one or two pages apiece. The intensive use of graphics provides a more effective and visually appealing means for conveying information. The answers provide links to other question/answer pairings within the FAQ document that deal with related topics, as well as references to other scientific publications that can provide further information. The FAQ format has proven to be well-suited for communicating technical information in an easily accessible manner. Because it compiles and references an extensive amount of source materials, this type of document represents an ideal starting point for readers who want to seek out additional information and serves as a valuable tool for project managers trying to assess the feasibility of using MNA at their sites. The document generated as part of this project will be peer-reviewed by a panel of experts prior to release. The final product will be publically available and distributed in electronic form (including an interactive version) via a free Internet download.
Benefits
The FAQ document provides a basis for the Department of Defense (DoD) to focus its remediation efforts and efficiently allocate environmental restoration funds. This is especially critical given the push to move DoD sites toward Remedy-in-Place at all facilities between 2014 and 2020. It is of potential benefit to all DoD sites, given that it will address MNA for a wide range of contaminants. The benefit is particularly targeted to those sites where a remedy is yet to be implemented or where there is some question about the long-term effectiveness of a technology that has already been implemented. It specifically addresses the need for approaches to manage risk at sites where persistent levels of contamination are expected following initial remedy implementation, given that monitoring post-treatment natural attenuation processes will be a necessity at these sites. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2013)
Points of Contact
Principal Investigator
Dr. Charles Newell
GSI Environmental Inc.
Phone: 713-522-6300
Fax: 713-522-8010
Document Types
- Fact Sheet - Brief project summary with links to related documents and points of contact.
- Final Report - Comprehensive report for every completed SERDP and ESTCP project that contains all technical results.
- Cost & Performance Report - Overview of ESTCP demonstration activities, results, and conclusions, standardized to facilitate implementation decisions.
- Technical Report - Additional interim reports, laboratory reports, demonstration reports, and technology survey reports.
- Guidance - Instructional information on technical topics such as protocols and user’s guides.
- Workshop Report - Summary of workshop discussion and findings.
- Multimedia - On demand videos, animations, and webcasts highlighting featured initiatives or technologies.
- Model/Software - Computer programs and applications available for download.
- Database - Digitally organized collection of data available to search and access.