What are the follow-up investigative stages of Phase I environmental assessments?
Phase I environmental assessments often identify environmental conditions at a site that merit additional investigation to determine actual impacts to environmental media (e.g., site soils, surface water, and groundwater). These follow-up phases of investigation typically consist of sampling and analysis of environmental media to determine the presence and extent of hazardous substances. Sampling activities are initially focused on suspect areas to determine the magnitude of impact. In the event that significant environmental impact is identified, a comprehensive investigation may be appropriate. These comprehensive investigations often require notification of local regulatory agencies, preparation of comprehensive work plans that describe sampling rationale, locations, and methods, and preparation of summary reports for regulatory submittal. Comprehensive investigations may be followed by multiphase investigations.
