Site investigations techniques used to assess the likely hydrological impact of a proposed landfill site

Abstract

ABSTRACT The construction of a landfill site is proposed at Dalinlongart, near Dunoon, Argyllshire. The site forms an unspoilt and secluded area within the hills and glens of the Cowal Peninsula on the Clyde Estuary and lies to the north of the nearby Highland Boundary Fault. A development of this type has to satisfy the rigid constraints on the emission of pollutants and in this respect it was necessary to assess the likely impact of such a development on the existing hydrological conditions. To obtain information for the design and subsequent operation of the landfill site, a site investigation was carried out involving a variety of techniques, both within the site and its environs. The merits and limitations of the differing investigation methods are described and discussed with respect to providing the required hydrogeological data in the context of this site. This paper illustrates the benefits of a desk study, in particular the aerial photograph interpretation, in assessing the hydrogeology of the site area and in the economic planning of the subsequent ground investigation. The advantages of mapping techniques and deep trial pits to expose the structure of soil and rock strata are outlined together with the requirement to carry out water quality analyses before, during and after the construction of the landfill site. Boreholes were required not only to confirm the ground conditions indicated by other works, but also to provide permeability data and install standpipes and piezometers for the continued monitoring of groundwater conditions.