DEVELOPMENT OF 3D GEOSPATIAL MODELS TO SUPPORT ENVIRONMENTAL RESTORATION ACTIVITIES AT TECHNICAL AREA 21, LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY, NEW MEXICO

Technical Area 21 (TA-21) is a former processing area located on a 0.5 square mile mesa top at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), New Mexico. A series of three-dimensional (3D) geospatial models were developed to support ongoing and future environmental restoration activities. Mining of lithologic, geophysical, infrastructure, and analytical data sets was completed to construct 3D site conceptual models of TA-21 at several scales. The models illustrate: (1) known and suspected contaminant source areas, (2) the nature and extent of contamination extending from the source areas, as well as quantities exceeding clean-up levels, (3) critical data gaps, (4) the underlying geologic framework including fractures and paleochannels, and (5) potential contaminant migration pathways.

The multi-scale 3D models are being updated with data collected from ongoing investigations and remedial actions. The models are designed to assist both LANL and the Department of Energy program managers with completing site characterization activities and developing cost-effective and media-specific remedial strategies. Managers will utilize the models to illustrate the complex site conditions and program strategies to LANL stakeholders that include regulatory authorities and the public. The models provide a means of monitoring progress of ongoing restoration activities taking place concurrently with decommissioning and demolition of former process buildings. The complex site conditions captured in the 3D geospatial model will be presented to stakeholders to ensure participation at critical project milestones and demonstrate that risks to human health and ecosystems are being properly managed.