Upper level undergraduate, required Hydrogeology course

Physical Geology (required), Environmental Geology (recommended); basic knowledge of hydrogeology, geologic maps and cross-sections

Culminating Project (in lieu of Final Exam)

-Detailed hydrogeologic evaluation of site-specific contamination.
-Developing remediation strategies for GW contamination.
-Effective project report preparation and presentation

-Develop plausible remediation strategy which minimizes/eliminates source of contamination based on detailed knowledge of site.
-Development of a reasonable budget and timetable for project

-Working effectively in small groups with division of responsibilities.
-Writing a report and summary effectively for a geotechnical audience.
-Oral presentation by group members to a diverse audience

Student group (3-4 persons) remediation studies are an effective way to apply learned hydrogeology concepts to real world problems. The Crooked Creek gas station with leaking underground storage tanks is just one of 4 to 5 projects which students can work on as a final project (2 to 3 weeks) in a hydrogeology course. The student group (3 to 4 persons) is given information regarding a leaking UST at a gasoline station in western Pennsylvania; a page detailing the history of the problem and a small sketch map if the site. They must then (over a 3 week period) research the geology/hydrogeology of the site, produce maps and cross-sections, and complete a detailed report, budget and timetable which summarize their remediation plans. Group members also give a 20 to 30 minute summary presentation to the rest of the class.

Working groups

Meet with each student project group every class period, from date of assignment to project completion. Evaluate division of responsibilities among group members. Assess members' knowledge of site. Assess members' development of an effective and realistic remediation strategy, budget and timetable for completion.

Group Reports and Supporting Documents

Drafts of report sections are submitted and reviewed before final project is due at end of course. Report will be graded on organization, writing style and clarity. The body of the report should include sections on the location and history of contamination, site geology, site hydrogeology (surface water and groundwater), remediation strategy, extent of contamination, justification for test hole and monitoring well locations, detailed budget and timetable for implementation and completion of remediation, and a list of resources and references cited. The group also prepares a stand alone executive summary (1 to 2 pages) of the project.

Supporting documents (detailed maps and cross-sections, etc.) are evaluated for accuracy and plausibility, neatness, visual impact, and professional presentation.

Group Presentations

Each group gives a summary presentation concerning their project to the rest of the class during the last class period. Each group member is expected to take active part in the presentation. Evaluation includes assessment of how clearly and accurately the group defines the problem of the site, and how plausible and realistic the remediation plans are. The group members are open to questions from other students and faculty. PowerPoint presentations are encouraged, but not required. The final project grade is weighted by group effort (75%) and individual effort (25%)