Description:
This course is intended for environmental professionals seeking an improved understanding of the 3- and 4-phase partitioning models specified under the Washington State Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA). Both models are prescribed in MTCA as predictive tools for deriving soil cleanup levels that are protective of groundwater. Washington State Department of Ecology recently updated two powerful Excel spreadsheets (MTCATPH11 and MTCASGL11) to assist with the complex model calculations. The instructor will lead participants through a number of hands-on exercises that demonstrate the appropriate use and capabilities of the spreadsheet models. The instructor will also discuss model theory, assumptions, limitations, and alternatives such as empirical demonstrations and leaching tests. Participants will have their own computer workstation to apply their knowledge to case study data during numerous hands-on exercises.

Course Topics:

- Review of MTCA Soil Cleanup Levels (Methods A, B, and C)

- Overview of the Three- and Four-Phase Partitioning Equations

- Introduction to the MTCA Spreadsheet Models (MTCATPH11 and MTCASGL11)

- Structure and purpose of MTCATPH11 and MTCASGL11 spreadsheets (learning how to navigate them)

- Evaluating Data for Input to Spreadsheets (e.g., what data do you need?, avoiding double counting of individual components, handling nondetects, obtaining site-specific soil characteristics)

- Running Test Cases for Several Petroleum Mixtures and Nonpetroleum Chemicals (results from saturated vs. unsaturated zone, excluding vs. including the dermal exposure pathway, and cases for using different groundwater CULs)

- Results of a Sensitivity Analysis for the Influence of Soil Properties on the Leaching Models (foc, volumetric water content, bulk density, total porosity)

- Calculating a Site-Specific Dilution Factor

- Limitations and Assumptions of the Leaching Models

- Obtaining the Appropriate Input Data

- Alternatives to Using the Leaching Models

About the Instructor - Priscilla Zieber is an expert in the fields of risk assessment and MTCA regulatory compliance. She has over 20 years experience in the fields of risk assessment, toxicology, and hazardous waste. Ms. Zieber was a volunteer for the MTCA Risk Assessment Subcommittee during the rule revision process and provided case study testing for the proposed rule amendments. She has applied the MTCA rule at numerous cleanup sites and continues to be an active educator on the subject.

After completing this class, attendees will be able to:
- Understand the components, capabilities, and operation of MTCATPH11 and MTCASGL11
- Select site-specific input parameters for the models
- Use spreadsheet software to calculate soil cleanup levels that are protective of groundwater
- Understand the limitations of the models
- Consider alternative methods to the models for the demonstration of groundwater protection

Prerequisites: Basic working knowledge of MTCA and Microsoft Excel.

Course Materials: Each attendee will receive a copy of the workshop proceedings and case study data for the hands-on exercises.

Credit: 0.8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Registration: $325 ( *$275 reduced tuition is available for Native American tribes; government employees; nonprofits; students). 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.

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.

Registration Form | Directions | Accommodations | Course Brochure PDF | Course Catalog

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