Environmental Site Assessments

Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) are integral to all land development projects. A Phase I ESA identifies potential or existing environmental contamination liabilities. A Phase I is typically completed to research the current and historical uses of a property as part of a commercial real estate transaction. Current and historical operations at a location may have caused groundwater or soil contamination that represents a potential liability for lenders and landowners. As a result, identification of a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC) may prevent financing by lenders, prevent the planned use of the property, and complicate or delay development. To manage risk, it is important to complete a phase I ESA according to the appropriate ASTM E1527 – 13 Standard Practice for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Process. To meet the standard of care for All Appropriate Inquiries under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), the ESA must be completed by a qualified professional, typically a Professional Geologist or Professional Engineer.

Big Pine provides a full suite of environmental assessments and investigations under the purview of a Pennsylvania-licensed Professional Geologist and can provide PADEP Act II Site Investigation services. To ensure the success of your project, Big Pine can provide a variety of services including Phase I ESAs, soil and groundwater sampling, and environmental site investigations.

Additionally, Big Pine has the capability to assist with geotechnical investigations pertaining to landslide investigation and construction as well as geohazard investigations.