Project

National Zinc Smelter Site

Location Cherryvale, KS Regulatory Jurisdiction Department of Health & Environment

Owner’s representative – smelter site remediation construction management, residential lead investigation and remediation management

PNL Role
PNL performed work as the onsite construction oversight contractor and client representative for the remediation of the smelter site which was operated under the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Voluntary Cleanup Program. Work involved excavation and consolidation of approximately 100,000 cubic yards of metal impacted slag in an onsite disposal area and backfill of the excavation with clean fill obtained from nearby borrow sources. PNL reviewed work in the field performing oversight and tracking excavation progress metrics during the remedial action. After completion of the work in 2007, PNL continues to provide support for ongoing operations and maintenance as well as perform additional investigation work involving smelter related impacts peripheral to the site.

PNL functioned as the owners’ representative for remediation of the approximately 130-acre site, formerly one of the largest zinc smelters in the US, that involved excavation and consolidation onsite of approximately 100,000 cubic yards of metal impacted slag and soil. A major benefit to the clients was realized by PNL when it was observed that portions of the site had an existing cap that did not need excavation. After the smelter remediation, PNL investigated smelter impacts peripheral to the site within the City of Cherryvale, managing and performing a series of city-wide investigations leading to remediation of over 600 properties. PNL now performs construction management and oversight for the city-wide remediation program which is scheduled for completion in late 2022.

Technical Milestones

  • On-site oversight present throughout smelter remediation
  • Identified previously capped area saving removal of additional 8 acres
  • Confirmation of material quantities and QA/QC
  • On-going site O&M with construction contractor since 2007
  • Management for city-wide soil lead assessment, remedial action design and remediation of over 600 properties

Stakeholder Relations

  • Stakeholder interaction maintained by clients
  • Participation by PNL in meeting presentation and interaction with KDHE
  • Maintain presence in City-owned offices with regular contact with City officials and maintenance staff