Drainage ponds are constructed within many manufacturing facilities to collect any wastewater or other chemical which may be accidentally spilled or released during the facility’s daily operations. Drainage at the facility directs all superficial liquids into these drainage ponds. Water from this pond is discharged to a nearby creek, as needed. Note that there are water discharge restrictions by the state on pollutant levels that can be discharged into creeks, streams, and rivers. Suppose there is a large chemical spill on the facility property and there is a threat of the chemical reaching the pond and groundwater below. What steps would you take to assess damage due to the spillage so that appropriate remedial measures can be taken to minimize, or eliminate, threat to human health and the environment? Consider all reasonable scenarios in this spill assessment problem.
