This is a work notice for upcoming environmental remediation work at the RFS EPA North Meadow beginning on Monday October 19, 2020.
Based on environmental investigations at the RFS being conducted under a State of California Department of Toxic Substances Control Order, a five phase field sampling plan was implemented to investigate data gaps. The fourth phase of field sampling, investigating the upland meadows, was completed in 2016, and is summarized in thefinal investigation report. PCBs found in the EPA North Meadow were further investigated in November 2017. The results are provided in aJune 2018 sampling summary. In August 2018, EPA approved a TSCA PCB risk-based removal action of the EPA North Meadow soil piles. Plans and Specifications for the removal action are being finalized for submittal to DTSC and EPA.
The purpose of this work is to remove soil contaminated with PCBs from two large areas on the EPA North Meadow. The Meadow is located north of Building 201, and will be fenced during construction. This action will lead to the removal and disposal of approximately 2,000 cubic yards of soil to an appropriately permitted landfill. Following excavation, the area will be prepared for future prairie restoration work. UC Berkeley will conduct perimeter fenceline monitoring for dust and mercury vapor emissions.
Beginning Monday October 19, 2020 a hazardous materials contractor working for UC Berkeley will dig soil in the excavation areas using a larger excavator. Soil will be directly loaded into trucks for disposal. A water truck and hoses will be used to control dust from leaving the excavation boundaries and where soil is loaded, if needed. There may also be a job trailer, truck, forklift, and dozer to support the removal action. It is anticipated that the work will be completed in two to three weeks. Work will take place Monday through Friday between 7 am and 6 pm. Air monitoring data will be made available on the Air Monitoring page of this website within in two working days of site activities.
All work will be conducted under oversight by DTSC and by the campus Office of Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S). For updates and current environmental news at the RFS, please go to the RFS Environmental Website at rfs-env.berkeley.edu. For any questions or more information, please contact EH&S at 510-6442-3073 or ehs-ep@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail)