Draft Protocol for Evaluating, Selecting, and Implementing Monitored Natural Attenuation at Explosives-Contaminated Sites

Abstract
Environmental remediation technology is evolving toward less expensive, less intrusive, and longer term solutions. Natural attenuation may be a suitable remedial alternative for sites where protection of human health and the environment can be demonstrated through natural processes without active intervention. The objective of this protocol is to provide appropriate guidance for natural attenuation as a remedial solution at explosives-contaminated sites. The protocol includes general considerations of regulatory and technical issues and a step-by-step procedure for selection and implementation of natural attenuation for explosives. Steps are illustrated with specific examples from a demonstration site. The protocol emphasizes demonstration of declining contaminant mass over time, identification of the mechanism and rate of attenuation, demonstration of the mechanism in laboratory microcosms, and continued monitoring, modeling, and development of contingencies.

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