Situation:

One challenging parcel acquired by the Authority is the former Del Monte Food Processing plant in downtown Fresno, California. During the Phase I ESA, it was discovered that the site had a history of leaking underground fuel oil storage tanks. The tanks, built in the 1930s, had been leaking for 50 years. As a result, Soar Environmental staff provided a Phase II ESA for the Del Monte site.

Action:

Soar Environmental staff evaluated a Phase I ESA previously prepared on the Del Monte site by another firm, identifying recognized environmental conditions due to the leaking underground storage tanks (UST). In addition, we conducted a Phase II ESA in compliance with ASTM E1903-11. Phase II ESAs screen for the presence of contaminants of concern using data collected from soil borings. We used a drilling rig to assess subsurface soil conditions to collect soil samples from depth, then submitted them to a California Certified analytical laboratory for chemical analysis. Finally, we provided a Phase II ESA Report that included a summary of field activities performed, analytical results from the laboratory, and recommendations for additional steps.

Results:

Soar Environmental completed the Phase II ESA and, through diligent research, determined that all five USTs had been successfully removed with no future Recognized Environmental Conditions. As a result, the Initial Study was able to proceed. Soar Environmental determined that the project had a less than significant impact on hazards and hazardous waste.