Geophysics team walking a transect for GIS data collection

Remedial Action in Neighborhood Park

VENTURA, CA / A former Camp Irvine, built on Irvine Park land, was used by the Army in the early 1940’s during World War II. It was closed to the public during that time period, as the land was designated for training exercises. We received a contract for completion of a Remedial Investigation (RI), Feasibility Study, Proposed Plan, and Decision Document.

Remedial Investigation characterized the site conditions and defined the nature and extent of Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC) and Munitions Constituents (MC) contamination on the site. The risk to human health and the environment were measured to develop Remedial Action Objectives and evaluate remedial alternatives.

Completion of the project is being supported by assisting in the preparation of the project planning documents, supervising site personnel during a cultural survey, and completing a Conceptual Site Model.

Highlights

  • Former Camp Irvine [Formerly Used Defense Sites (FUDS)] World War II Army infantry training site declared excess and turned over to Orange County, CA.
  • Site is currently open as Irvine Regional Park and is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

Services

  • Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study/Decision Document (RI/RS/DD)
  • Advanced Geophysical Classification (AGC) and Material Potentially Presenting An Explosive Hazard (MPPEH) processing
  • Cultural Survey (biological, archaeological, cultural)

Most memorable moment of this project:

Half the park in very steep terrain which made survey, data collection, sample collection, and excavation of targets of interest (TOI) extremely challenging to perform safely. No vehicle access to half the areas. Lots of hiking with all equipment up and down steep grades.

Surprising moment on this project:

Lots of fauna and flora including big rattlesnakes. Breath taking views of snowcapped peaks to the East and the Pacific Ocean to the West from the peaks.

Challenges and solutions:

All work was performed safely and efficiently through careful planning and daily or twice daily safety and work briefs. No injuries.