Petroleum-Contaminated Soil Investigation

Understanding Petroleum Contamination

Petroleum products including gasoline, diesel fuel, heating oil, and motor oil can contaminate soil when released into the environment. These releases may occur from underground storage tank leaks, surface spills, overfills during fuel delivery, or equipment malfunctions. Petroleum hydrocarbons can migrate through soil layers, potentially reaching groundwater and creating long-term environmental concerns. Even small releases can require investigation and cleanup under state and federal regulations.

Common sources of petroleum soil contamination: Gas stations, vehicle maintenance facilities, heating oil tanks, diesel generators, fleet fueling operations, and industrial facilities that store or use petroleum products.

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Our Investigation Approach

We conduct systematic investigations to accurately characterize petroleum contamination and guide cleanup decisions:

• Site assessment and source identification to determine contamination origins

• Soil boring installation and strategic sampling to define contamination extent

• Field screening using photoionization detectors and visual observation

• Laboratory analysis for total petroleum hydrocarbons and specific compounds (BTEX)

• Groundwater monitoring well installation and sampling where needed

• Soil vapor assessment for volatile petroleum compounds

• Risk evaluation based on land use and exposure pathways

• Comprehensive reporting with contamination maps and remediation recommendations

 

Regulatory Compliance and Reporting

Petroleum releases often require notification to the New Mexico Environment Department and may trigger corrective action requirements. We help clients navigate regulatory processes, prepare required documentation, and ensure investigations meet state technical standards. Our reports provide the detailed information agencies need to evaluate site conditions and approve closure or remediation plans.

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From Investigation to Remediation

Investigation results inform remediation strategies tailored to site conditions and contamination levels. Depending on findings, cleanup options may include excavation and off-site disposal of contaminated soil, enhanced bioremediation, soil vapor extraction, or natural attenuation monitoring. We work with clients to develop cost-effective approaches that achieve regulatory closure while minimizing business disruption.

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Who Benefits from Our Services?

Our petroleum contamination investigation services support gas station owners, commercial property managers, industrial facility operators, property developers, environmental insurance carriers, and legal professionals managing environmental liability cases. Whether addressing an active release or investigating historical contamination during property transactions, we provide the technical expertise needed to resolve petroleum contamination issues.

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Why Choose Haller & Associates?

With extensive experience investigating petroleum releases in New Mexico, we understand both the technical and regulatory aspects of contaminated soil assessment. Our team delivers accurate, defensible investigations that support sound decision-making and efficient project completion. We provide responsive service and clear communication throughout the investigation process.