Phytoremediation in Tank Dike 156

BP Amoco has proposed phytoremediation as an Interim Measure to control a ground water seep in tank dike 156. Water samples collected and analyzed from this seep have detected dissolved phase contaminants such as benzene and methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE).

Phytoremediation is the direct use of living plants for in place control of contaminated soil, sludges, sediments and ground water. At the former refinery, Poplar trees are being used to act as hydraulic pumps to remove ground water and lower the groundwater table in order to reduce and stop the flow from the groundwater seep. In August 2001, approximately 180 trees were planted in the 1,260 square foot area within tank dike 156. Additional trees were planted in the spring of 2002 to replace trees which did not survive the original planting and a fence was installed to keep deer out. The attached photograph of the phytoremediation plot was taken in late April of 2002. Additional photographs will be posted in the future in order to view the progress.

poplar trees

poplar trees august 2002
August 2002

To monitor the success of the phytoremediation project BP Amoco prepared a performance monitoring plan. This plan outlines the activities BP Amoco will conduct to monitor the performance and health of the trees. This plan was reviewed by EPA, the MDNR and an expert in phytoremediation from Kansas State University

For additional information on phytoremediation you can visit the following web sites:

http://www.clu-in.org/download/citizens/citphyto.pdf [PDF]
http://www.clu-in.org/products/citguide/phyto2.htm

Phytoremediation in Tank Dike 156

Local Navigation