Aberdeen Proving Ground

Objectives

To study the occurrence, nature, extent, sources, fate, and transport of contaminants in the environment. To perform hydrogeologic assessments pertaining to water quantity and quality. To obtain a better understanding of surface-water/ground-water interactions. To assist and support a variety of technical activities of military programs of the Army programs. To develop or evaluate natural and enhanced remediation methodologies for clean up of organic contaminants. To develop and use innovative physical, chemical, and biological technologies in environmental science applications.

Statement of Problem

The Edgewood area of Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), Maryland, has been used to develop and manufacture military-related chemicals since World War I. Our previous study (1985-92) in the Canal Creek area showed that a large ground-water contaminant plume along the West Branch Canal Creek was probably discharging to the creek and its surrounding freshwater wetlands. Chlorinated volatile organic compounds that are common industrial solvents, including trichloroethylene and 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane, are the major ground-water contaminants. Work that has been completed focused on remedial investigation and feasibility study phase ground-water tasks in support of the Army Installation Restoration Program, at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD.

Strategy and Approach

Occurrence, extent, source, fate, and transport of contaminants need to be assessed, evaluated, and quantified utilizing new and innovative technologies. Unique remediation solutions for contaminated ground water in aquifers and wetlands being developed through the use of enhanced bioremediation methods. Results of these studies can be used in decision support systems to obtain closure in the IRP for the Army.