Where evidence of
recognized environmental conditions is encountered, we may recommend a
Phase II Environmental Site Assessment. The Phase II ESA is a follow-up
investigation whose scope of work will depend upon the specific
recognized environmental condition. The Phase II ESA may involve
sampling and laboratory testing of soil, water, stored materials, waste
materials, or construction materials.
For example, suppose
our research discovers there has been an underground storage tank on
the property whose removal was not properly documented.
We would recommend a
Phase II ESA to verify the presence or absence of soil contamination
and to determine its lateral and vertical extent, in conformance with
state and federal requirements. The Phase II ESA would involve
collection of soil samples from test borings at and near the former
underground storage tank basin and their laboratory analysis for
petroleum hydrocarbons, aromatic compounds, and other fuel components.
A similar recommendation would be made for suspect soil staining
connected with above-ground storage tanks.
In cases where a Phase
II ESA returns positive evidence of contamination, we may make
recommendations for a remediation project, sometimes called a Phase III
Environmental Site Assessment.
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