March 26
4:00 p.m.
Engineering 120

Abstract

Considering the Effects of Climatic Stress to Remedial Design and Technology Performance for Groundwater Cleanup

Since the early 1980s, the groundwater remediation design practice has implemented clean-up remedies that by and large have not considered climate- induced acute or chronic changes to the hydrologic character of sites for which clean-up remedies are designed. With the continued progress of climatic shifts, the stress on existing groundwater and surface water protection measures, and the ability to design new protection and clean up approaches will continue to increase dramatically. Climate induced changes in hydrologic conditions is not the only threat because of accompanied changes to the geochemical and biological character of groundwater systems which directly impact the performance and longevity of in situ groundwater remedies. This research is a continuing effort to assess the application of conventional and innovative remedial measures with respect to their likely performance in a climate-new environment. The consideration of technology “coping” and adaptation is part of developing a clean-up and protection framework for groundwater remediation that will effectively meet current and anticipated future conditions with a level of acceptable performance. The objectives of this presentation include summarizing the background of problem, identifying potential solutions, and discussing the approach to developing the framework using geochemical and hydrogeological data for active clean-up sites.

Portrait of Scott Warner.

Biography

Scott D. Warner, PG, CHG, CEG
Principal Hydrogeologist, Pacific Basin & U.S. West Regional Leader
BBJ Group (San Rafael, CA)

Scott has been working as a consulting hydrogeologist and remediation practitioner for nearly 40 years with a strong focus in the development and application of in situ methods for groundwater remediation.  In particular, Scott was a lead designer for the world’s first commercial permeable reactive barrier composed of zero valent iron – a system designed between 1991 and 1993, constructed in late 1994, and still performing today.  Recently, Scott started a doctoral research project under the direction of Professor Ravi Naidu at the University of Newcastle with attention toward the consideration of designing and implementing groundwater remedies as climatic conditions shift.  Scott received his BS in Engineering Geology from UCLA, MS in geology/hydrogeology from Indiana University, is currently working on the doctoral program at the University of Newcastle, and is a registered professional geologist and hydrogeologist in multiple states.