Great Falls Copper Refinery Remediation: A Comprehensive Environmental Solution
Introduction: Addressing Contaminated Sites with Expert Remediation
The Great Falls Copper Refinery, a century-old industrial facility, faced significant environmental challenges due to contamination from copper and lead refining processes. Anderson Engineering was entrusted with site remediation, providing primary design and construction management to address soil contamination, structural instability, and regulatory compliance. The project involved large-scale demolition, embankment stabilization, and the strategic placement of 500,000 cubic yards of clean fill to ensure environmental safety and future land use.
With regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) increasingly scrutinizing projects, delivering a solution that met compliance standards while ensuring long-term site stability was essential. Anderson Engineering’s expertise in remediation engineering oversight, construction management, and environmental planning made it the ideal partner for this complex project.
Challenges of the Great Falls Copper Refinery Site
Over its 100-year operational span, the Great Falls Copper Refinery accumulated significant contamination due to hazardous materials such as lead and arsenic seeping into the soil. These contaminants presented environmental and public health risks, necessitating immediate action to mitigate further impact.
Key Challenges Faced by the Client:
- Severe Soil Contamination:
Contaminants such as arsenic and lead were detected in high concentrations, posing risks to groundwater and nearby communities. - Structural Instability:
The site’s embankments, originally constructed as part of the refinery’s operations, showed signs of erosion and potential collapse, threatening nearby land and infrastructure. - Regulatory Compliance Pressure:
The site is listed under the EPA Superfund program, so the client faces stringent deadlines and legal implications if remediation efforts are delayed.
Beyond regulatory concerns, the project posed significant logistical challenges due to the scale of the demolition and the need to work within active industrial zones. Anderson Engineering was tasked with overcoming these obstacles while ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding environment and community.
Anderson Engineering’s Comprehensive Remediation Approach
Phase 1: Site Assessment and Planning
Anderson Engineering began by conducting a comprehensive site assessment, including:
- Survey Layout & Volume Surveys:
- Used advanced surveying techniques to establish project boundaries and calculate required fill volumes accurately.
- Environmental Sampling & Risk Analysis:
- Conducted soil and groundwater testing to determine contamination levels and formulate remediation strategies.
Phase 2: Structural Stabilization
To address embankment instability, Anderson Engineering implemented:
- Placement of Clean Fill:
- Approximately 500,000 cubic yards of clean fill were strategically placed and compacted to 95% maximum dry density, ensuring structural integrity.
- Slope Reinforcement Measures:
- Engineered solutions such as geo-grid installations and erosion control blankets were applied to prevent future deterioration.
Stabilization Task | Volume (cubic yards) | Density Achieved |
Clean Fill Placement | 500,000 | 95% Dry Density |
Embankment Reinforcement | 120,000 | N/A |
Phase 3: Contamination Containment and Site Rehabilitation
Following stabilization, the next critical step was contamination containment, achieved through:
- Protective Covering:
- All contaminated areas received a protective cover to isolate hazardous materials from exposure and prevent leaching.
- Water Diversion Structures:
- Designed diversion channels to manage stormwater runoff and protect reclaimed areas from erosion.
- Seeding and Vegetation:
- Native vegetation was reintroduced to stabilize soil and enhance the site’s visual appeal.
Key Technologies Used:
- In-situ stabilization techniques to minimize excavation.
- Real-time monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
Quality Control and Regulatory Compliance
Throughout the project, Anderson Engineering maintained rigorous quality control measures, including:
- Regular Compliance Audits: Ensuring alignment with EPA and state guidelines.
- Health and Safety Protocols: Implementing strict safety measures for on-site personnel and local communities.
By integrating cutting-edge engineering techniques with a deep understanding of regulatory requirements, Anderson Engineering successfully transformed the contaminated site into a stable, compliant area for future use.
Results and Long-Term Benefits
Key Achievements:
- Regulatory Approval:
The project met all EPA and Montana state regulatory requirements, ensuring the site is no longer a liability. - Enhanced Environmental Safety:
Contaminated soil was effectively contained, preventing further risk to groundwater and public health. - Future Land Use Potential:
The site is now safe for potential redevelopment, opening commercial or industrial project opportunities.
Measured Outcomes:
Metric | Before Remediation | After Remediation |
Soil Contamination Levels | High | Below EPA Standards |
Structural Stability | Unstable Embankments | Fully Reinforced |
Compliance Status | Non-Compliant | Fully Compliant |
Client Benefits:
- Cost Savings: Avoided potential fines and legal complications by achieving full compliance.
- Community Impact: Improved public perception and safety, addressing long-standing concerns.
- Sustainability: Introduced erosion control measures and sustainable land use practices.
Take the Next Step with Anderson Engineering
Is your industrial site facing environmental challenges? Anderson Engineering specializes in large-scale remediation projects, ensuring compliance, safety, and sustainability.
Contact Us Today:
📞 Call: (801) 972-6222
📧 Email: sales@andersoneng.com
🌐 Visit: www.andersoneng.com