2022 CERCLA & Brownfields Symposium Presentations

Communicating about contamination at Brownfields and Superfund sites can seem intimidating - especially when there is unwelcome news to share - but it is essential to ensure your communities are involved and informed. This session will discuss strategies and tools for effective risk communications for project managers. We will look at different regulatory frameworks for public participation and notification and provide examples of successful communication strategies as well as lessons learned along the way. We will also share helpful tools to ensure that you have control of your messaging and strategies including rollout plans, communication templates and considerations when developing talking points.

This session will discuss State-Federal Land Management interaction regarding CERCLA removal and remedial actions, and how the work was done during the COVID-19 pandemic and other times of crises.

This session will include training on how to use EPA EJ Screen tool and discuss how States can download and use EPA's EJSCREEN tool and data in their own GIS environment to screen sites based on State specific criteria.

Brownfield site assessments are not limited to evaluating the potential for soil and groundwater contamination. Existing structures on brownfield properties need to be evaluated for the presence of Lead-Based Paint or Asbestos prior to demolition or reuse. This session will discuss best practices and standard deliverables when Lead and Asbestos Surveys are needed and how to ensure these surveys are useful when preparing to use 128a funds or EPA RLF's for abatement. An inspector's perspective will also be provided, followed by a roundtable discussion on the topic.

Emerging Contaminants pose special challenges for sites with contamination including sites evaluated through CERCLA Site Assessment and post-construction sites. Challenges may include both emerging and re-emerging contaminants, requiring investigation, assessment, and remedial actions to address these contaminants. A research tool was used to identify common approaches and challenges experienced by States. In addition, multiple trigger mechanisms were identified for post construction Superfund sites directing needs for further assessment. Resources, risk evaluation, and action levels should be considered when determining an appropriate strategy for CECs

This session will focus on the generational mix in today's work culture and discuss how we need to work together as we all navigate the future of work, address succession planning, and leadership development in our workforce. Be ready to participate in the discussion!

A brief update on the past and current the Brownfield Focus Group Projects will be provided followed by a roundtable discussion of topics States are currently facing, including:

• How State Programs can help EPA ensure that the entire $1.5 billion in supplemental funds is allocated.
• What to do with all this money?
• EPA Updates

Interested in taking the lead for Superfund sites or projects in your State and need a refresher on the process? The following session will provide an overview and training on the tools and requirements under the federal Subpart O regulation. States will be given an opportunity to ask EPA questions and share best practices when collaborating with their EPA RPM. The session will conclude with Oklahoma DEQ providing a case study of how their agency acts as the lead agency on Superfund sites and the collaboration process.

There has been substantial discussion on whether the U.S. EPA default vapor intrusion attenuation factor of 0.03 is appropriate for use in all States. Developing a database, which includes sensitivity analysis, effects of attenuation factors, and risk assessment using the application of multiple lines of evidence; can help guide investigation, data analysis, off-site sampling decisions, and development of an updated attenuation factor for vapor intrusion screening at redevelopment sites, will be presented as an example for developing your State database.