TreeWell® System Feasibility Questions
As a company, we place value on ensuring that our TreeWell Systems are the right fit for each project we take on. Our technology is not appropriate for every site, and we take pride in making sure our systems lead to effective contaminant remediation where they are implemented. Unlike a “buyer beware” strategy, we believe in partnering with our clients through thorough feasibility assessment—an approach that’s not always standard in the remediation industry.
Our technical expertise stems from a strong consulting background. We have extensive experience working with many remediation technologies. This means that when you collaborate with us, you gain the benefit of that expertise. We’re well-versed in how our solutions integrate with other technologies, ensuring a holistic approach to your remediation goals.
The Initial Questions
First, we aim to understand your broader goals and timeline. Is your objective contaminant mass reduction, hydraulic control, or another remediation goal? Is there a regulatory driver, and are there any other stakeholders involved? We work to understand the site conceptual model, specifically with respect to operational history, contamination sources and transport mechanisms, and areas available for planting.
Once we’ve gained a general understanding of the site’s location, objectives, and stakeholders, we focus on the contaminants. Our TreeWell projects have successfully addressed VOCs, SVOCs, pesticides, petroleum hydrocarbons, agricultural inorganics (such as nitrates, ammonium, and phosphorus), tritium, and, more recently, solubilized metals like lead, arsenic, zinc, boron, and cadmium from coal combustion residuals (CCRs). We also have pilot studies underway to evaluate PFAS compounds. While we’ve demonstrated success across a broad range of contaminants, factors like concentration levels, source area presence, groundwater hydraulic properties, and past or planned future remediation efforts can impact the feasibility and design of a TreeWell-based solution.
Hydrogeological Considerations
Site-specific hydrogeological details further clarify project needs and objectives. Availability of answers to the following questions aren’t necessarily deal-breakers, but they help refine the scope of the project:
· Is the aquifer confined or unconfined?
· Are there single or multiple water-bearing units?
· Are clean water-bearing units above or below the impacted ones?
· Is contaminated water present in unconsolidated material, bedrock, or both?
· Are there data showing vertical variability in contaminant concentrations?
Feasibility and Hydraulic Calculations
The final determining factors for feasibility assessments often come down to preliminary hydraulic calculations. If site data are available, we estimate groundwater’s lateral flow velocity. This, combined with groundwater volume, serves as a key piece in assessing whether a TreeWell-based solution is viable. If the flow is too rapid or the impacted water-bearing unit is too thick, TreeWell units may not be the right fit. From here, we can begin shaping a basic design and providing a rough project scope.
Next Steps
Ready to explore whether a TreeWell System is right for your site? Whether you have full site data or are just getting started, reach out to begin the conversation. Our team will guide you through the feasibility process and help determine the best path forward for your remediation goals.
