Vapor Intrusion Investigations and Risk Assessment

Structures that overlay volatile organic compound (VOC) contamination in soil or groundwater may be subject to hazardous vapor intrusion. DBS&A’s scientists and engineers help our clients to address this threat. Often a primary driver for remedial planning at contaminated sites, vapor intrusion is under increasing focus by environmental regulators. DBS&A professionals have investigated subsurface vapor migration and vapor intrusion for more than 20 years. This experience encompasses the gamut of VOCs, including chlorinated solvents and petroleum hydrocarbons.

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Hydraulic Fracturing

Hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," is a method of well-stimulation used to access to oil and natural gas in shale formations by fracturing rock using a hydraulically pressurized solution of chemicals and sand suspended in water. Fracking is thought of as controversial because of the potential impact to the environment and human health as the process becomes increasingly widespread. DBS&A has the capabilities to support clients, their legal counsel, and the regulatory community with solutions to concerns about the impacts of hydraulic fracturing.

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Managed Aquifer Recharge

To meet the demands of a growing population base, communities need innovative water supply alternatives. Alternative water sources are commonly available only seasonally and require storage for use during peak periods of demand. Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is a method to conjunctively use these non-traditional water sources whereby the water source is treated, recharged to the aquifer system, and recovered at a later date for use. Because MAR relies on water storage in the subsurface, communities save water that would normally be lost to evaporation. DBS&A is a leader in implementation of MAR systems using surface infiltration and direct injection recharge methods.

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Vadose Zone Hydrology

The vadose zone is the area between the ground surface and the water table and is comprised of rock and soil. It plays a vital role in groundwater replenishment and groundwater quality protection. The vadose zone may substantially influence natural recharge of groundwater and contaminant transport. DBS&A provides solutions for challenging vadose zone projects and provides expertise on technical issues related to litigation and other investigations that have included characterization of the vadose zone and site hydrogeology numerical modeling of volatile organic compounds, development of technical opinions regarding the source and distribution of contaminants attributed to numerous Potential Responsible Parties, and expert testimony. Daniel B. Stephens, Ph.D., P.Hg., P.G. (DBS&A founder, principal hydrologist, and chairman of the board), wrote the book Vadose Zone Hydrology.

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California Sustainable Groundwater Management Act

Passed by the Legislature August 29, 2014, the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act fundamentally changes management of California’s groundwater basins and contains a number of requirements with the goal of achieving sustainable groundwater management in the areas of California that most need it. Click here to read more.