Formerly one of the largest zinc smelters in the US, the former National Zinc site in Cherryvale, KS is managed by Verdantas (formerly Project Navigator, Ltd.) who functioned as the Owners’ Representative for remediation of the approximately 130-acre that involved excavation and consolidation on-site of approximately 100,000 cubic yards of metal-impacted slag and soil. A major benefit to the clients was realized by Verdantas when it was observed that portions of the site had an existing cap that did not need excavation. After the smelter remediation, Verdantas investigated smelter impacts peripheral to the site within the City of Cherryvale, managing and performing a series of city-wide investigations leading to remediation of over 600 properties. Verdantas now performs construction management and oversight for the city-wide remediation program which is scheduled for completion in late 2022. 

Technical Milestones 

• On-site oversight present throughout smelter remediation 
• Identified previously capped area saving removal of additional 8 acres 
• Confirmation of material quantities and QA/QC.  
• On-going site O&M with construction contractor since 2007 
• Management for city-wide soil lead assessment, remedial action design and remediation of over 600 properties

Stakeholder Relations 

• Stakeholder interaction maintained by clients 
• Participation by Verdantas in meeting presentation and interaction with KDHE 
• Maintain presence in City-owned offices with regular contact with City officials and maintenance staff

Key Take-Aways 

• State VCP 
• Job won through positive outcome at Cox Road Landfill project and ongoing presence with area 
• Between 3 and 8 local field staff 
• Construction coordinator for remediation of 100-acre smelter site and 600+ property residential remediation 
• O&M oversight with the site owner 
• Performing RI for soil lead in 1,400 parcel community 
• Community relations, access, field work, analytical, design and remediation construction oversight