The objective of this course is to introduce attendees to direct push (DP) techniques and methods to enhance three-dimensional contaminant site investigations. DP tools and methods can provide three-dimensional information on contaminant distribution, formation geochemistry and hyrostratigraphy in unconsolidated formations. This information may then be used to develop high resolution conceptual site models and support the design of well focused remediation approaches.

This course will begin with a review of the limitations of conventional long screened wells for understanding contaminant distribution and migration. Next the attendees will be introduced to direct push groundwater sampling tools. These tools are installed on a temporary basis (usually less than 1-2 hours) for the collection of groundwater quality samples and hydraulic testing, and are recovered and decontaminated for multiple re-use. Appropriate tools and methods for screen development will be reviewed along with procedures for monitoring water quality parameters and different sampling techniques. Methods and tools for ground water profiling and building three-dimensional site models will be described. Attendees will also be introduced to procedures for conducting conventional or pneumatic slug testing on each piezometer to obtain information about spatial variability of formation hydraulic conductivity.

The basic procedures for DP well and piezometer installation will be reviewed. Use of prepacked well screens and bottom-up tremie grouting will be described.

Following the introduction to tools, equipment and procedures in the classroom, outside demonstrations of assembly, installation, development, sampling and slug testing of the DP piezometers and wells will be conducted. The attendees will have the opportunity to observe and participate in the field activities and discuss methods and procedures with the field operators. Once the field demonstrations are completed the group will reassemble to review the methods and discuss applications, limitations and share in their own experiences in DP installations.

Instructor Bios:

Wesley McCall, Geologist, Geoprobe Systems, Inc., Salina, KS

Mr. McCall earned his B.S. and M.S. in Geology from Clemson University and the University of Missouri, respectively. He is a licensed geologist (KS28) and has managed investigations using direct push technology for over 20 years.  Mr. McCall joined Geoprobe in 1995 where he conducts applications research related to groundwater and environmental investigations.  He is active in the ASTM D18 Subcommittee on direct push technology where he has assisted in development of several standards.  Wes worked with the Geoprobe R&D team to develop the Pneumatic Slug Test system used for the determination of hydraulic conductivity in wells.  He also developed the Mechanical Bladder pump for low flow water quality sampling in small diameter wells.  Recently, Wes has been involved with application of Geoprobe’s hydraulic profiling tool (HPT) logging system to evaluate formation permeability and provide high resolution estimates of formation hydraulic conductivity.

Gary Robbins is a Professor of Geology in the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment at the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT. Professor Robbins is well known for his research work aimed at improving site investigations at contamination sites. Often called "the consultants consultant", he has offered training courses across the country for the private sector and the EPA. He is the author of Expedited Site Assessment: The CD and recipient of the University's Chancellor Information Technology Award. Prior to coming to UConn he worked for Woodward-Clyde Consultants and before that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. He has been called upon as a private consultant, expert witness and arbitrator for the private sector and government entities. He is a CPG with AIPG, and a Registered Geologist and Certified Engineering Geologist in California.