Cameron-Cole was retained to provide regulatory and technical consulting services to evaluate the presence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) which had been identified by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) in the vicinity of airport property owned by the municipality. A report of impacts to a nearby public supply well prompted investigation by the FDEP’s Site Investigation Section (SIS) pursuant to the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR). Area-wide sampling subsequently conducted by the SIS in 2018 revealed the presence of PFAS in numerous irrigation wells located in the vicinity of the airport and prompted a request for the FDEP SIS to access airport property to conduct an additional assessment. Suspect source areas of PFAS identified by the Department included historical aircraft incident response locations, fire-fighting training areas, and current air rescue and fire-fighting stations where Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF) were used or stored. 

Cameron-Cole reviewed and developed comments to the FDEP’s technical work plans, provided badged escort to the FDEP contractors and subcontractors for assessment work conducted within the AOA, and collected split soil and groundwater samples. Cameron-Cole observed and documented all sample collection and handling activities to confirm adherence to applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Split sample results were then compiled into a summary report and presentation including figures, tables, and findings. Independent assessment activities were also conducted concurrently with the SIS investigation including the sampling of additional irrigation and potable supply wells and the development of a comprehensive area well survey using ArcView/GIS.

Working with outside environmental counsel, the client was able to successfully limit the scope of the initial SIS assessment and evaluate split sample results prior to the issuance of formal reports by the FDEP. This allowed independent collection of additional data necessary to determine if completed receptor pathways may be present and to develop an appropriate communications strategy based on this information. Additionally, our engagement with FDEP’s leadership and outside counsel has resulted in the client limiting the scope of future assessment efforts that are required by the FDEP.