Right here stands Soil Gas Well PGP-11 a silent sentinel. It watches over an unsaturated zone in Lake County Indiana. But what secrets lie beneath this unassuming spot?
Soil Gas Well PGP-11 is part of a network. These wells monitor what’s happening underground. Specifically it checks for volatile chemicals. These chemicals can pose a risk to indoor air quality.
This well is officially known as USACE CDF SOIL GAS WELL PGP-11. The United States Geological Survey or USGS operates it. Its location is precisely recorded with a decimal latitude of 41.6495. The decimal longitude is -87.4885278.
The well’s construction dates back to October 21, 2020. It was inventoried shortly after on November 1 2020. It might seem new but its purpose connects to a longer story. It helps understand and manage potential risks from manufactured gas plant sites.
These plants operated from the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries. They produced gas from coal. This process left behind waste like tar oil and cinders. These wastes contain harmful substances. These include polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons VOCs and heavy metals.
Soil Gas Well PGP-11 plays a key role. It helps to collect soil gas samples. These samples are collected at least three feet below ground. The goal is to assess volatile chemical contamination.
The Illinois EPA has a tiered approach called TACO. It addresses corrective action objectives. TACO requires evaluating the indoor inhalation pathway. This is important where volatile chemicals are present.
Sampling must follow strict protocols. It cannot take place within 48 hours after significant rainfall. The process involves using a steel probe to reach the desired depth. Then tubing is connected to collect the soil gas.
The collected samples undergo analysis. Laboratories check for various volatile chemicals. The results help determine if remediation is needed. If contamination is found cleanup efforts may begin.
The EPA works with Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas. They investigate former manufactured gas plants. The aim is to clean up contamination. This ensures the safety of residents and the environment.
Imagine the work involved in gathering the data. Scientists and technicians visit Soil Gas Well PGP-11. They carefully collect samples. They follow precise procedures. The data they gather informs important decisions.
This unassuming well connects to a broader effort. It addresses the legacy of industrial activity. It also protects public health. Soil Gas Well PGP-11 represents commitment. This commitment ensures a safer environment for future generations. It stands as a guardian quietly watching over the unseen.