Environmental Restoration Project

Cleaning up the Soil and Groundwater

The work-scope of the Environmental Restoration (ER) Project includes overseeing the investigation and cleanup of contaminated soil, groundwater, and ancillary (small) buildings in the 100, 200 (except tank farms), 400, and 600 Areas of the Hanford Site.

Nina Menard (509-372-7941) is the ER Project manager.

Goals

• 100 Area: Complete decisions for final remedies at the end of 2013, and complete soil cleanup by 2016 (supports the U.S. Department of Energy's "2015 Vision").
• 300 Area: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the lead regulatory agency for the 300 Area. We support EPA through permitting and closure of dangerous waste facilities. We also support EPA through advice and concurrence on regulatory decisions under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act.
• 200 Area: Clean up 1,099 waste sites by 2024.

Groundwater

By 2024, have 10 regulatory decisions to restore groundwater to its highest beneficial use within a reasonable restoration timeframe. Ensure that technologies to restore the groundwater are operational and functional.

Project Mission

Characterize the nature and extent of contamination in soil, groundwater, surface water/sediment, plants, and animals. Select and implement cleanup actions for soil and groundwater that are protective of human health and the environment, that maintain protection over time, and that minimize untreated waste.

Overview

The project scope includes the closure of some inactive treatment, storage, and disposal soil waste sites in accordance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. This effort involves working closely with the U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE), its contractors, and EPA to ensure that the cleanup of the soil and groundwater meets the environmental regulations and requirements of Washington State.

The ER Project provides regulatory oversight and professional recommendations for cleanup in the areas of hydrogeology, engineering, management, and budget concerns. Ecology works very closely with USDOE and EPA to find the best, most cost-effective methods of cleaning up the environment.

Lastly, Ecology acts as a communication avenue and information resource for USDOE and the public. We strive to make sure that information is shared in a timely manner and to see that public concerns are regarded.