Monitored Natural Attenuation Training in Portland, OR

The Northwest Environmental Training Center presents:

Monitored Natural Attenuation of Petroleum and Chlorinated Hydrocarbons in Soil and Groundwater
Course ID: GHYD-410A ( 2 days )
August 9 - 10, 2007, 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M.
Ecotrust - Jean Vollum Natural Capital Center
721 NW 9th Avenue, Suite 200
Portland, Oregon

Instructor: Erick McWayne, Northwest Environmental Training Center

Register Online | Directions | Accommodations | Course Brochure PDF (includes reg. form, directions, and lodging info)

Description: This course provides participants with an overview of the science and best practices for implementing monitored natural attenuation. The course sections focus specifically on monitored natural attenuation of petroleum hydrocarbons, fuel oxygenates, and chlorinated hydrocarbons in soil and groundwater. Software tools for natural attenuation analysis and methods for enhancing natural attenuation will also be discussed.

Sample Slides:

Course Topics:

Overview of Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA)
- Physical, Chemical, and Biological Processes
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- EPA Policy on MNA

Geochemical Context for MNA
- Geochemical Processes
- Redox Zonation and Biodegradation Efficiency

Biodegradation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons and Fuel Oxygenates
- Determining Site Specific Assimilative Capacity (TEA Evaluation)
- Phase Considerations (LNAPL, dissolved, sorbed, and vapor)
- BTEX and Fuel Oxygenate Plume Behavior and Degradation Rates
- Daughter Products (toxicity and mobility)
- Geochemical Indicators

Biotransformation and Degradation of Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
- Determining Site Specific Assimilative Capacity
- Phase considerations (DNAPL, dissolved, sorbed, and vapor)
- Plume Behavior
- Daughter Products (toxicity and mobility)
- Geochemical Indicators

Site Hydrogeology and MNA Efficiency
- Groundwater Velocity Characterization
- Estimating Mechanical and Chemical Dispersion
- Assessing Sorptive Capacity of Aquifer Solids
- Microbiologic Testing - When is it necessary?

Natural Attenuation Feasibility Study
- Establishing Remediation Goals
- Evaluating Plume Characteristics
- Source Decay and Removal
- Predicting Plume Behavior
- Measuring and Estimating Degradation Rates
- Interpreting Geochemical Tracers
- Using Fate and Transport Models
- Developing the Conceptual Site Model

Implementing MNA
- Groundwater Monitoring Plan Requirements
- Well Position and Number: How many wells are enough?
- Determining Trends in Contaminant Mass
- Tracking Geochemical Indicators
- Refining the Conceptual Site Model
- Selecting and Implementing Primary Source Control
- Evaluating Natural Attenuation and Plume Status
- Collecting Lines of Evidence for Natural Attenuation
- Using Institutional Controls
- Risk Management

Addressing Commingled Plumes
- Impact on Plume Geometry
- Geochemical Indicators
- Degradation Rates

Remediation by Enhanced Natural Attenuation
- Air Sparging
- ORC and HRC
- Enzyme Injection
- Fertilizer Application and Cometabolization
- Emerging Technologies

Criteria for Success and Site Closure
- Understanding the Persistence of Contaminant Mass
- Understanding Variations in Groundwater Velocity and Direction
- Correlating Groundwater Elevation with Contaminant Concentrations
- Cross Contamination Challenges and Forensics
- Rapid Site Assessment Technologies
- Adaptive Management
- Completing MNA and Demonstrating Site Restoration

MNA Case Studies and Interactive Exercises (throughout both days)

Summary of MNA as a Remedial Action

About the Instructor: Erick McWayne has over 12 years of professional experience managing contaminated soil and groundwater and teaching on the subject. As an environmental consultant, Mr. McWayne served as project manager for remedial investigation and feasibility studies at numerous Department of Defense and other client sites. He currently serves as Executive Director of the Northwest Environmental Training Center and teaches workshops in transport and fate, environmental chemistry, and hydrogeology across the country.

Intended Audience: This course is intended for environmental professionals seeking an improved understanding of the science and best practices associated with implementing monitored natural attenuation.

Prerequisites: Familiarity with general hydrogeology concepts, and contaminant chemistry and transport is essential.

Course Materials: Attendees will receive a binder containing workshop proceedings and reference material.

Continuing Education Units: 1.3

What to Bring: Pen or pencil, scientific calculator, coffee mug, and a water bottle (to reduce waste). Please wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the prevailing weather. Lunch will be on your own. There are numerous restaurants within walking distance. Drinks and snacks will be provided each day.

Registration: $495 ( *$395 reduced tuition is available for Native American tribes; government employees; nonprofits; students; and NAEP, NEBC, NWAEP members). You may register via the link below or by calling the Northwest Environmental Training Center at 206-762-1976.

Cancellation Policy: Registration fees are fully refundable up to 30 days prior to the event and 50 percent refundable (or 100% credit) thereafter up to 3 business days prior to the event. No refunds are issued for cancellations occurring less than 3 business days before the start day. Course registration fees and cancellation policy are subject to change without notice.