Leaaf Environmental was engaged to carry out a comprehensive Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) at Meche’s Exxon Station, located at 505 North Main Street in Washington, Louisiana. The project was commissioned to address potential environmental risks associated with historical operations at the site, particularly the presence of underground storage tanks (USTs). The client’s primary concern was to assess any contamination of the soil and groundwater, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and mitigate liabilities. As part of the targeted Brownfields assessment, Leaaf’s team was tasked with not only evaluating these environmental risks but also managing the safe removal and closure of the USTs.
Scope of Work
The scope of work for this project was extensive and included multiple key activities. First, a detailed soil and groundwater sampling effort was undertaken to investigate potential contamination. In addition, asbestos and lead-based paint surveys were conducted to ensure that any hazardous materials present at the site were properly identified and managed. Leaaf developed and implemented a Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) and a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP), both of which were approved by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) before the commencement of field activities. The removal of USTs was a critical milestone in the project, requiring careful excavation, sampling of the surrounding soil, and the subsequent submission of closure documentation to the LDEQ to confirm regulatory compliance.
Once the fieldwork was completed, samples were analyzed for contaminants such as petroleum hydrocarbons and other hazardous substances. The laboratory results were compiled into comprehensive environmental reports. The final deliverables included detailed documentation of the findings, UST closure documentation, and a full analysis of the soil and groundwater conditions. These reports were submitted to the client and the LDEQ for review, ensuring that all regulatory requirements were met and that the site was properly assessed for future use or redevelopment.
Throughout the project, Leaaf’s team demonstrated expertise in managing complex environmental assessments. The team included quality assurance managers who ensured that all work met the highest standards, as well as field scientists who played key roles in executing the fieldwork and collecting critical data. The project was completed on schedule, with Leaaf continuing to provide support and consultation for potential future remediation efforts, should any further action be required.
Summary
Leaaf successfully addressed the client’s environmental concerns, ensured compliance with LDEQ regulations, and provided a thorough evaluation of the site’s condition. The project represents a key step toward the safe redevelopment or closure of Meche’s Exxon Station, with all activities meticulously documented and reported to both the client and regulatory authorities.
