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Department of Biological & Physical Sciences

South Carolina State University

Project Summary and Student Benefits from
Dr. John B. Williams DOE Project

Evaluation of Monitored Natural Attenuation Conditions Along Waste Plume Outcrops at CBRP and Castor Creek Sites at SRS

John B. Williams, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
South Carolina State University
Department of Biological Sciences

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The potential for monitored natural attenuation (MNA) to effectively degrade TCE plumes was evaluated by sampling surface water and shallow groundwater. Conditions affecting potential MNA of plume contaminants were measured for two SRS watershed areas. Sampling for MNA conditions at CBRP and at Castor Creek has allowed our project to more precisely assess the potential for MNA in perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE) plumes. We have detected MNA degradation occurring and have been able to determine which zones are more conducive to this process.

An additional objective for this environmental project by South Carolina State University (SCSU) was to enhance the collaborative linkages between DOE-SRS, University of Georgia SREL, and HBCU student intern mentoring. This project has achieved a combined objective of: 1) providing useful environmental sampling results to further ER efforts at SRS and 2) expanding the pool of HBCU students receiving "hands on" training in the environmental profession. SCSU students have gained valuable research experiences in both field and laboratory techniques. They have also gained skills in interacting with environmental and engineering professionals. An average of four students per year have been trained by this program. Over three-dozen students have gained valuable training since the project's start.