This presentation focuses on the use of a depositional model for demonstration and prediction of contributing factors for effective groundwater remediation of a chemically impacted site. Through several years of data collection, a subsurface geologic depositional model was developed to portray source area limiting factors for site restoration. The development of the model was needed to support remediation efforts that proved difficult due to complex site stratigraphy. Initial physiochemical data and aquifer fate and transport characteristics provided clues for groundwater restoration. However, discovery of unique stratigraphic variations across the site were more significant for effecting cleanup. A common approach for environmental remediation projects is the use of simple models to describe subsurface stratigraphy largely due to limited databases and lack of understanding the regional depositional history. This study demonstrates the importance of incorporating a regional geologic stratigraphic model with site hydrogeologic factors to drive successful remediation. The site-specific depositional environment model was the key tool to enhance cleanup of this chemically impacted site.

Environmental geologists should use a depositional model to enhance subsurface predictions for remediation sites especially for studies that include limited local databases. As embodied in Walther’s 1893 studies, “the most satisfying genetic explanations of ancient phenomena were by analogy with modern geologic processes”. This study demonstrates the value of using a regional geologic analog to a site-specific depositional model to accurately portray stratigraphic factors that resulted in successful remediation.

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