Page 3 of the PAERAB's April 2004 TAPP Contractor Newsletter

Text Box: The USFWS commented that natural background levels of lead would be more appropriate for the lead removal action in the absence of an ecological-based cleanup goal protective of the most sensitive species. Picatinny Arsenal replied that the removal is not a final action and that the action is not directly addressing ecological-based cleanup levels. Picatinny

Text Box: Arsenal states that resultant levels are not expected to be sufficiently high to warrant remediation as far as impact to ecological receptors goes. In addition, the USFWS recommended a particular planting (warm-season grass mixture to promote habitat for grassland-dependent birds, mammals, and insect pollinators). Current practice at the site is to establish cover to

Text Box: prevent erosion and allow the areas to regrow naturally to match surroundings. In industrial areas, commercial grass seed is used and maintained in accordance with base operations. The USFWS also recommended cutting every other year to prevent the growth of woody vegetation but the base is not required to prevent the growth of woody vegetation and indicated that

Text Box: September to November 2003 in their February 2004 report. PhA is the firm overseeing a pilot test using the MAGNUS system – an in situ remediation technique in which propane and other nutrients are injected into the subsurface to stimulate natural microbes to degrade the TCE. The test was

Text Box: An innovative technology is being applied to Area D to find alternate technologies that may one day complement or even replace the permeable treatment wall planned for the area. The environmental restoration firm PhA described the results of sampling from

Text Box: started in December 2002. Sampling results for TCE as yet do not exhibit a definitive trend indicating whether or not the MAGNUS system can be effective. However, mechanical problems have resulted in system downtime which may have contributed to the ambiguous results.

Text Box: last site inspection was December 2003. The report included a checklist, photos, and a map. The map showed the locations of posted signs. Thirteen signs are posted in the area. The signs read as follows: “Notice – Environmental Soil Cover – Do Not Disturb – Call

Text Box: Environmental Office X6748.” No adverse conditions were reported for the cap. The report did state that there were signs that hunters had been in the area. Picatinny Arsenal has asked the USEPA and the NJDEP for feedback on the format of the report.

Text Box: Picatinny Arsenal submitted copies of the quarterly report as required for the Land Use Control Implementation Plan for Site 20/24. Copies were submitted to the USEPA and the NJDEP for review and approval. The next quarterly report is right around the corner – the

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mowing would not be performed.

The lead removal action is now underway and expected to be completed in mid-August 2004.