CORE Environmental Consultants provides expert contaminated soil and fill characterization services to support excavation, site development, and regulatory compliance. Whether preparing for off-site disposal, reuse, or stockpiling, our sampling and analysis protocols help clients accurately classify material in accordance with local, state, and federal requirements—avoiding delays, rejections, or costly change orders during construction.
We work with developers, contractors, and engineers to proactively manage soil and fill as part of excavation plans, environmental remediation, or Brownfield site redevelopment.
When Is Soil and Fill Characterization Required?
Soil and fill materials must be tested and characterized when:
- A site has a known history of industrial use, filling, or contamination
- Excavated materials are being transported off-site for disposal or reuse
- Required by a Remedial Action Work Plan (RAWP), Site Management Plan (SMP), or Construction Health and Safety Plan (CHASP)
- Participating in regulatory programs such as NYSDEC Brownfield Cleanup, NYC VCP, or E-Designation compliance
- Determining waste acceptance at permitted landfills, treatment facilities, or beneficial reuse sites
Failing to properly characterize materials can lead to rejected loads, regulatory violations, or remediation plan revisions.
Our Soil & Fill Characterization Process
1. Site Review & Material Categorization
We begin by reviewing construction plans, historical data, and site environmental history (Phase I/II findings, UST records, prior spills, etc.). Based on this review, we determine:
- Material types (e.g., native soil, historic fill, impacted soil)
- Potential contaminant classes (VOCs, SVOCs, metals, PCBs, petroleum)
- Whether materials are subject to TSCA, RCRA, NYSDEC Part 360/364, or NYC-specific regulations
This allows us to develop a sampling plan that meets project-specific and regulatory objectives.
2. Sampling Plan Development
CORE prepares a sampling and analysis plan (SAP) in accordance with applicable regulatory guidance, including:
- DER-10 and TAGM 4046 (NYSDEC)
- Part 360 beneficial use determination (BUD) guidance
- NYC OER fill management protocols
- EPA SW-846 methodology
- Landfill or treatment facility-specific requirements
The plan outlines sample frequencies, locations, and QA/QC procedures, tailored to anticipated volumes and soil types.
3. Field Sampling & Screening
Our trained field staff collect representative composite and grab samples from stockpiles, test pits, or excavation faces. Fieldwork may include:
- Soil vapor screening for petroleum or solvent odors
- Photoionization detector (PID) readings
- Field logging of color, odor, texture, and visual impacts (e.g., staining, debris)
- Temporary containment or segregation guidance
All samples are collected using appropriate PPE, decontamination procedures, and chain-of-custody documentation.
4. Laboratory Analysis
Samples are analyzed at ELAP- or NELAC-accredited laboratories using EPA SW-846 or other approved methods, with analyte suites selected based on:
- Known or suspected contamination (e.g., lead, PCBs, VOCs, SVOCs, metals)
- Receiving facility requirements (hazardous vs non-hazardous classification)
- Fill reuse potential (e.g., for quarry or upland placement)
- Project or program-specific contaminants of concern (e.g., PFAS, pesticides)
Results are compared to applicable thresholds such as Part 375, Part 360, TSCA 50 ppm PCBs, or landfill-specific acceptance criteria.
5. Reporting & Waste Classification
CORE prepares a detailed Soil Characterization Report, including:
- Site history and sampling rationale
- Boring logs or test pit profiles (if applicable)
- Laboratory results with regulatory comparison tables
- Volume estimates and classification by material type
- Recommended handling/disposal pathways
- Transportation and manifesting guidance
We assist with facility pre-approval packets, NYC Fill Management Plans, and waste transporter coordination to keep your project on schedule.
Why CORE?
✅ Experience with Complex Urban Sites
We understand the challenges of fill variability, contamination layering, and logistical constraints typical of NYC and dense urban sites.
✅ Regulatory and Facility Alignment
We work with NYSDEC, NYC OER, and a wide range of disposal/treatment facilities to ensure material acceptance and cost-effective logistics.
✅ Integrated Field & Reporting Services
From plan development through sampling, lab coordination, and report submittal—we provide a seamless end-to-end solution.
✅ Support for Brownfield, E-Designation, and BCP Projects
Our process aligns with remedial program requirements and supports integration into RAWPs, SMPs, and DOB filings.
