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Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA) of Petroleum and
Chlorinated Hydrocarbons in Soil and Groundwater Training

August 5 - 6, 2010, 8 A.M. - 5 P.M.
At the Norris Conference Center
9990 Richmond Ave., Houston, Texas 77042

Also in Austin, July 29 - 30, 2010

Instructor: Erick McWayne, Northwest Environmental Training Center


Description: This course provides participants with a practical overview of the science and techniques used to implement monitored natural attenuation for soil and groundwater remediation. More specifically, individual topics include monitored natural attenuation of petroleum hydrocarbons, fuel oxygenates, and chlorinated hydrocarbons (solvents). Software tools for natural attenuation analysis and methods for enhancing natural attenuation will also be discussed.

Course Topics:

Overview of Monitored Natural Attenuation (MNA)
- Physical, Chemical, and Biological Processes
- Advantages and Disadvantages of MNA
- State and Federal Policies 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 with Terminal Electron Acceptor (TEA) Evaluations
- Phase Considerations (LNAPL, dissolved, sorbed, and vapor)
- BTEX and Fuel Oxygenate Plume Behavior and Degradation Rates
- Daughter Products (toxicity and mobility)
- Geochemical Indicators of MNA

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

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
- Collecting Lines of Evidence for Natural Attenuation
- Refining the Conceptual Site Model
- Selecting and Implementing Primary Source Control
- Evaluating Natural Attenuation and Plume Status
- Using Institutional Controls
- Risk Management

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

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)

This course is part three of a three-part series. It is preceded by Fundamental Contaminant Chemistry (CHEM-403A) on August 2, 2010, and Contaminant Chemistry and Transport in Soil and Groundwater (CHEM-403B) from August 3-4, 2010. Attendees may register for these courses individually or as a package. However, a discount applies when registering for two or more courses, and registrants are encouraged to enroll in the full workshop series. Courses will begin at 8 A.M. and end at 5 P.M. each day.

After completing this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand and apply the core principles of natural attenuation policy and science during the remedy selection process;
- Select appropriate water quality parameters for analysis and understand the relevance of each parameter with regard to natural attenuation processes;
- Determine whether site geochemistry is favorable for natural attenuation;
- Assess whether geochemical changes suggest that natural attenuation has occurred in the past;
- Understand microbial processes and how to enhance them for improved biodegradation rates; and
- Compile and present site data to demonstrate whether monitored natural attenuation is a reasonable remediation strategy for a contaminated site.

Intended Audience: This course is intended for environmental professionals seeking an improved understanding of the science and techniques used to implement monitored natural attenuation.

Prerequisites:
Familiarity with general contaminant chemistry and transport is essential. Completion of CHEM-403A and CHEM-403B or similar coursework is strongly recommended.

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

Continuing Education Units: 1.5 CEU's

Registration: $595/$495* (*reduced tuition is available to employees of Native American tribes, government agencies, and nonprofits; students; and NAEP members). An additional discount applies when registering for CHEM-403A, CHEM-403B and GHYD-410. You may register via the link below or by calling the Northwest Environmental Training Center at 206-762-1976. Register Online Here

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.

About the Instructor: Mr. McWayne has fifteen years of experience leading soil, groundwater, and geophysical investigations for the characterization of contaminant transport and fate. In addition, he has extensive experience teaching contaminant chemistry, transport, natural attenuation, and hydrogeology. As an environmental consultant, Mr. McWayne served as a project manager for remedial investigation and feasibility studies at numerous Department of Defense and other contaminated 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.

Disability Accommodations: To request disability accommodations, please contact us at info@nwetc.org or (206) 762-1976 at least 30 days prior to the event.

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.

To find out more about NWETC's programs send us an email.

Northwest Environmental Training Center
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit program of EOS Alliance

650 S. Orcas Street, Suite 220, Seattle, Washington 98108
Phone: (206)762-1976, Fax: (206)762-1979
www.nwetc.org