Since 2015 PDP have been engaged by the New Zealand Defence Force’s (NZDF) to lead the investigation and management of the emerging contaminants per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) on Defence properties. PFAS are man-made chemicals and were historically present in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used for firefighting at NZDF camps and bases.
The investigation work conducted by PDP has included extensive site investigations within NZDF sites, on neighbouring properties and the downstream aquatic environment. Sampling of a range of environmental matrices including surface water, groundwater, soils, sediment, fish, molluscs and homegrown meat, eggs, vegetables and milk, as well as regular ongoing monitoring of soil, surface water and groundwater at select sites. The initial investigations included rapid response to assess drinking water supplies from over 100 private bores, small-scale and municipal water supplies and preparation of reports for landowners/ occupiers, NZDF, Councils and the All of Government PFAS Programme
This work included :
• Preliminary and Detailed Site Investigations and development of conceptual site models
• Sampling program design and implementation
• Management of long-term and spatially diverse projects
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Emerging contaminant fate and transport evaluation and modelling
• Derivation of site-specific guideline values
• Ecological and human health risk assessments
• Remediation and treatment of PFAS containing water, wastewater and soil
PDP continues to provide technical advice to NZDF regarding ongoing PFAS monitoring and management.
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