Clean Fill Evaluations and Development of Soil Import Acceptance Criteria

`Path Forward is a company that provides expert guidance to soil brokers, construction companies, and real estate developers to assist them with the characterization and acceptance of excess soil and fill materials in compliance with environmental regulations. The company specializes in evaluating analytical data for projects that require the use of imported soil or fill material, and has evaluated millions of cubic yards of soil to date.

The evaluation process carried out by Path Forward is based on a site-specific approach that considers the unique characteristics of the site in question. This is achieved by developing import-acceptance criteria based on a conceptual site model (CSM) and appropriate exposure endpoints. The CSM provides a detailed understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological features of the site, including the sources and types of contamination present, the site’s hydrogeology, and the potential receptors and pathways for exposure. Based on this information, the exposure endpoints are established, which define the maximum acceptable levels of contaminants for different receptors, such as human health or ecological receptors.

In addition to the site-specific approach, Path Forward also uses the general requirements and recommendations of local agencies, the Regional Water Quality Control Boards such as the Environmental Screening Levels (ESLs), and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), such as the Clean Fill Advisory, Clean Fill Evaluation. In addition Path Forward utilizes already existing site-specific acceptance criteria. This ensures that the materials being used are safe and comply with State and Local requirements.

Path Forward’s services are valuable for soil brokers, construction companies, and real estate developers who want to ensure that the imported soil or fill material they are using is safe for the environment and human health. The company’s expertise in evaluating analytical data and developing site-specific acceptance criteria saves time and reduces the risk of non-compliance with environmental regulations.

In conclusion, Path Forward’s approach to evaluating excess soil and fill material is both rigorous and comprehensive. The company’s focus on site-specific criteria based on a CSM and exposure endpoints, as well as the use of existing guidelines, ensures that the imported soil or fill material meets the required standards for safety and compliance with environmental regulations. The company’s services are an essential component of any construction or real estate project that involves the use of imported soil or fill material.