Remediation of TCE Plume at Former Caterpillar Manufacturing Facility, San Leandro, California

Fugro provides on-going investigations, remediation and consulting services for Caterpillar Inc., associated with the release of TCE from their former manufacturing facility in San Leandro, California. Fugro has led the remediation effort since 2001, when we optimized the operation of three groundwater extraction and treatment systems that used air stripping, resin, and granular activated carbon (GAC) to remove the VOCs prior to discharge to a storm drain.

Fugro lowered operation and maintenance costs by expediting the capture and recovery of the TCE and operating them in an energy efficient manner. Fugro prepared NPDES reports and performed semi-annual groundwater monitoring of wells located over a 1.5 square mile area. As the plume contracted from the on-going groundwater extraction, Fugro investigated the plume to identify areas where high concentrations of groundwater contaminants remained, using Cone Penetration Tests with the collection of Hydro-Punch samples within the aquifer. This data was used to select a more effective remedial technology that could accelerate the degradation of the VOCs. Fugro performed a cost/benefit analysis to consider the shut-down of the treatment systems and the replacement with the injection of products to dechlorinate the VOCs. Implementation of the remedial technology required NEPA/CEQA documentation, and Fugro personnel assisted in directing the NEPA/CEQA study.

Fugro prepared a 10-Year Remedial Action Plan Review to document the progress of remediation in attaining the Target Remedial Goals for the Caterpillar Plume. This report assessed the magnitude, extent, and trends of the VOCs within the plume using groundwater soil vapor data. We performed a feasibility study for the injection of HRC-X in conjunction with monitored natural attenuation (MNA), which was evaluated in the Remedial Action Plan. The California Department of Toxic Substance Control (DTSC) approved the 10-year Review and authorized Fugro to proceed with the planning for the injection of HRC-X.

Fugro completed the permitting, injection, and monitoring of the HRC-X product and optimized the effectiveness of the product by injecting innoculum and with a primer to provide initial feeding to the bacteria. Fugro then applied the HRC-X over a depth of the aquifer for the full 400-foot section. Since the injection, Fugro has monitored the decreasing concentrations of VOCs in the groundwater by collecting groundwater samples from Hydro-Punch samples and monitoring wells.

Fugro coordinates the reporting and communication with the regulatory agencies, including the RWQCB, the DTSC, and the City of San Leandro. Fugro personnel negotiated the shut down of the three treatment systems, and established criteria with the regulatory agencies for achieving site closure.

Fugro also represents Caterpillar at regulatory agency and public meetings, keeps the public informed on the progress of remediation of the Caterpillar Plume. FACT SHEETS are delivered to homes in the immediate vicinity before Fugro implements a new phase of field work and Fugro responds to questions from the public.