4% United States
Environmental Protection
M % Agency
2014 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Buffalo Sewer Authority and University of Buffalo
Buffalo, New York
Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol
EPA 832-R-15-013
-------
About the Green Infrastructure Technical Assistance Program
Stormwater runoff is a major cause of water pollution in urban areas. When rain falls in undeveloped
areas, soil and plants absorb and filter the water. When rain falls on our roofs, streets, and parking lots,
however, the water cannot soak into the ground. In most urban areas, stormwater is drained through
engineered collection systems (storm sewers) and discharged into nearby water bodies. The stormwater
carries trash, bacteria, heavy metals, and other pollutants from the urban landscape, polluting the
receiving waters. Higher flows also can cause erosion and flooding in urban streams, damaging habitat,
property, and infrastructure.
Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and natural processes to manage water and create healthier
urban environments. At the scale of a city or county, green infrastructure refers to the patchwork of
natural areas that provides habitat, flood protection, cleaner air, and cleaner water. At the scale of a
neighborhood or site, green infrastructure refers to stormwater management systems that mimic
nature by soaking up and storing water. Green infrastructure can be a cost-effective approach for
improving water quality and helping communities stretch their infrastructure investments further by
providing multiple environmental, economic, and community benefits. This multi-benefit approach
creates sustainable and resilient water infrastructure that supports and revitalizes urban communities.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) encourages communities to use green infrastructure to
help manage stormwater runoff, reduce sewer overflows, and improve water quality. EPA recognizes
the value of working collaboratively with communities to support broader adoption of green
infrastructure approaches. Technical assistance is a key component to accelerating the implementation
of green infrastructure across the nation and aligns with EPA's commitment to provide community
focused outreach and support in the President's Priority Agenda Enhancing the Climate Resilience of
America's Natural Resources. Creating more resilient systems will become increasingly important in the
face of climate change. As more intense weather events or dwindling water supplies stress the
performance of the nation's water infrastructure, green infrastructure offers an approach to increase
resiliency and adaptability.
-------
Acknowledgements
Principal USEPA Team
Christopher Kloss, U.S. EPA Headquarters
Jamie Piziali, U.S. EPA Headquarters
William Shuster, U.S. EPA National Risk Management Research Laboratory
Key Buffalo Area Stakeholders
Julie Barrett-O'Neill, Esq., Buffalo Sewer Authority
Professor Sean Burkholder, University of Buffalo
Consultant Team
John Kosco, Tetra Tech
Bill Sharkey, Tetra Tech
Mathew Mombrea, Cypress North
Jonathan Nalewajek, Cypress North
This report was developed under EPA Contract No. EP-C-11-009 as part of the 2014 EPA Green
Infrastructure Technical Assistance Program.
-------
Contents
About the Green Infrastructure Technical Assistance Program ii
Acknowledgements iii
Executive Summary v
1 Introduction 1
1.1 Project Setting 1
1.2 Project Purpose 1
2 Buffalo Sewer Authority Green Infrastructure Program 2
3 Project Goals 2
4 Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol 3
4.1 SOP1 - General Site Information Protocol 3
4.2 SOP2 - Elevation, Transects, and Station Point Protocol 5
4.3 SOP3 - Vegetation Information Protocol 9
4.4 SOP4 - Waste and Debris Information Protocol 9
4.5 SOP5 - Pervious/Impervious Surfaces Protocol 10
5 Technical Application 10
6 Protocol Implementation Considerations 11
6.1 Variability of Data 11
6.2 Lessons Learned 12
6.3 Opportunities for Further Analysis 12
7 Conclusion 12
8 References 13
Appendix A - Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures
Appendix B - Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Checklist
Figures
Figure 1. Vacant house, pre-demolition, in Buffalo 1
Figure 2. Potential green infrastructure 2
Figure 3. Generic site layout design 4
Figure 4. The field crew lays out transects 5
Figure 5. The field crew performs a penetration test using a single mass penetrometer 5
Figure 6. Obtaining a soil core 6
Figure 7. Identifying soil texture by feel 7
Figure 8. Soil textural triangle 8
Figure 9. A stand of Phragmites australis 9
Figure 10. Stained soil located on a property 9
Figure 11. The field crew performs an infiltration test using a tension infiltrometer 10
Figure 12. Screen capture of Soil Type entry screen for App 11
Figure 13. Screen shot of Review screen on the mobile application 11
-------
Executive Summary
Since 1950, the population of the City of Buffalo has decreased approximately 40 percent due to the
combination of suburbanization and the loss of a large portion of the city's industrial base. Through
state and federal grants, the City of Buffalo undertook a demolition program to remove and discard
dilapidated buildings. As of April 2015, the city has demolished more than 5,000 vacant or abandoned
buildings, with many more scheduled for demolition.
The vacant lots left after the demolition program present an opportunity to provide ecological benefits
such as green space and stormwater runoff retention. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
assisted the Buffalo Sewer Authority (BSA) in developing a method to systematically assess the
effectiveness of vacant land in urban areas to retain stormwater runoff. The assessment included
collection of relevant information on general site conditions, elevations, vegetation, waste, impervious
areas, soil type(s), and soil hydrology. The vacant lot assessments take approximately 1-2 hours per lot,
depending on the number of field staff involved. The short time spent on-site results in a large amount
of data that can be used to assess and analyze impacts of these vacant lots.
The EPA project team developed the Urban Vacant Land Assessment protocol (Protocol) to support the
post-construction monitoring goals associated with BSA's combined sewer overflow (CSO) Long Term
Control Plan. In addition, the protocol may serve as a model for similar communities needing to assess
the infiltration capacity of post-demolition vacant lots.
The protocol is divided into five assessment areas:
1) General site information.
2) Elevation, transects, and station points.
3) Vegetation.
4) Wastes.
5) Pervious/impervious surfaces.
The project team developed standard operating procedures (SOPs) to specify the on-site activities and
data collection required for each of these five assessment areas. The SOPs are included as Appendix A to
this report, along with a checklist (Appendix B) that can be used to collect data on each site assessed.
The SOPs and checklist provide communities a step-by-step process for field data collection.
To accompany the Protocol, the project team also designed and developed a Buffalo-specific database
and mobile tablet-based web application to provide data entry and storage of site information (see
Section 5). The application included an electronic form, accessed by an authenticated Internet-
connected tablet device, used in the field during demolition assessments.
The results of completed vacant lot assessments could be used to calculate the amount of stormwater
that may be retained on different properties. The Protocol could serve as a model for similar
communities that need to assess the stormwater and green infrastructure performance of post-
demolition vacant lots.
-------
I Introduction
I.I Project Setting
Through state arid federal grants, the city has undertaken a
demolition program to remove and discard dangerous and
dilapidated buildings. As of April 2015, the City of Buffalo had
demolished more than 5,000 vacant or abandoned buildings.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
investigated methods to assess soils and soil hydrology in
vacant urban lands (Shuster et al. 2014). Vacant lots present
an opportunity to provide ecological benefits, such as green
space and stormwater runoff retention using passive
infiltration. A method to systematically assess the urban
vacant land by collecting and analyzing relevant information
on site condition, elevation, vegetation, debris, impervious
areas, soil types, soil compaction, and soil hydrology could be
used to assess the effectiveness of these vacant lots for
stormwater runoff retention.
1.2 Project Purpose
The purpose of this project was to develop an urban vacant land protocol and mobile (i.e., tablet-based)
technical application with which the Buffalo Sewer Authority's (BSA's) Green Infrastructure Program
could assess systematically the potential for stormwater runoff retention in vacant lots.
I
Since 1950, the population of the City of Buffalo has decreased approximately 40 percent as a result of
suburbanization and decline in its local industrial base. This decline in population has resulted in many
properties becoming vacant and abandoned (Figure 1). In 2000, 15.7 percent of housing units in the city
were vacant (City of Buffalo Comprehensive Plan, Section 2.4.19). As the vacant properties aged, the
dilapidated conditions led to health and safety concerns associated with structural stability, fire risks,
and lead-based paint and asbestos releases. Additionally,
these abandoned properties became a general blight on the
city scape.
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Figure I. Vacant house, pre-demolition,
-------
2 Buffalo Sewer Authority Green Infrastructure Program
In conjunction with its 2014 Combined
Sewer Overflow (CSO) Long Term Control
Plan (LTCP) Update, BSA submitted a Green
Infrastructure Master Plan to EPA and New
York State Department of Environmental
Conservation in 2014. In the Green
Infrastructure Master Plan, BSA proposed to
partner with the City of Buffalo to capitalize
on the large number of completed and
forecasted demolitions, which reduce
impervious surfaces within the BSA's system
capture area (Figure 2). The plan identified
the addresses of more than 5,300
completed demolitions since the date of the
last CSO model calibration and at least 700
planned demolitions. The plan also
estimated changes in impervious surface
resulting from demolitions and the
associated reduction in stormwater runoff
into the combined sewer system.
Source: City of Buffalo Comprehensive Plan (Figure 37)
Figure 2. Potential green infrastructure.
3 Project Goals
This project had two goals: the development of an Urban Vacant Land Assessment protocol, and
creation of a mobile technical application to capture data in the field while following the protocol.
The primary goal of the project was to develop a systematic protocol to assess the environmental
performance of an urban vacant lot that is the product of an intentional demolition process. EPA has
developed a tool and report, On the Road to Reuse: Residential Demolition Bid Specification
Development Tool (EPA 2013a), that highlights environmental issues associated with residential
demolitions and provides examples of bid specification language.
This protocol guides staff on how to assess the potential for stormwater retention on a vacant property,
including gathering information on site grading, existing vegetation, evidence of dumping or trash,
impervious areas, soil types, soil compaction, and soil hydrology. The protocol is described in section 4
below and in SOPs in Appendix A. The protocol is based, in part, on work completed by Shuster et al.
(2014) for EPA to assess vacant lots in Cleveland, Ohio. A checklist to record information collected in the
field is also included in Appendix B.
Potential - Green Infrastructure
Potential Green Space
Data Source: City of Buffalo O.S.P.
Urban Design Project
-------
In order to facilitate capture, storage, and processing of protocol information, a secondary goal of the
project was to develop a Buffalo-specific portable application/database architecture and web
application. The required data elements outlined in the protocol served as the basis for the associated
tablet-based, electronic form that was used by BSA in the field during urban vacant land assessments.
4 Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol
The project team developed a post-demolition Protocol to assess more easily the large number of
properties as part of the post-construction monitoring goals associated with BSA's CSO Long Term
Control Plan. The protocol serves as guidance on the assessment of demolished properties located
throughout the City of Buffalo.
The protocol (Appendix A) is divided into the following five assessment areas:
1) General site information (SOP1).
2) Elevation, transects, and station points (SOP2).
3) Vegetation (SOP3).
4) Waste and debris (SOP4).
5) Pervious/impervious surfaces (SOP5).
For each assessment area, the project team developed an SOP to specify the on-site activities and data
needs required to complete the assessment. These SOPs are included as Appendix A to this document
and provide a step-by-step process to collect data in the field. In addition to being a resource for the City
of Buffalo, the protocol can serve as a model for similar communities needing to assess the stormwater
potential of post-demolition vacant lots.
4.1 SOP I - General Site Information Protocol
SOPl, General Site Information, guides the user through the collection of data related to the condition
of a property, adjacent property land use, presence of standing water, and other general property
characteristics (e.g., address, demolition date). The data are entered on the protocol checklist in the
field while at the subject property.
A generic site layout figure was created to allow assessors to have a standardized way to describe the
orientation and location of the properties (Figure 3). This generic site layout is used in each of the SOPs
to provide information about the location where specific data elements are collected. The layout below
uses the road as a base reference point, with the station points (SP1, SP2, etc.) and quadrants described
in relation to the road.
-------
Adjacent Parcel 2 (AP2)
SP2
SP3
\
\QUAD1
QUAD 2
SPo^.
/sp 7
Adjacent Parcel 1 (AP1)
\
Adjacent Parcel 3 (AP3)
)
SP52>
/
^P9
\sP8
SP1
^QUAD 3
\
QUAD 4 \
SP4
Sidewalk
Road
Sidewalk
Opposite Parcel (OP)
Legend
0 SP - Station Point
Transect Lines (OP) Opposite Parcel
1 Quadrant ID (AP) Adjacent Parcel
Site Layout Protocol
City Of Buffalo
Demolition Assessments
Figure 3. Generic site layout design.
-------
4.2 SOP2 - Elevation, Transects, and Station Point Protocol
SOP2, Elevation, Transects, and Station Points, guides the user through the collection of data on
elevation and soils. Users begin by laying out the transects and station points (See Figure 4). Once the
site layout is complete, users determine the elevation change and slope of the property and describe
the condition of the area (e.g., grass, other vegetation, bare earth, sealed soil/pavement/structure).
Users complete a penetrometer test (soil penetration resistance test - see Figure 5) and collect soil
cores to determine soil classification. Users should take photos of the area with measuring tapes in place
as well as photos of the soil cores obtained.
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Figure 4. The field crew lays out transects.
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Figure 5. The field crew performs a penetration
test using a single mass penetrometer.
-------
After obtaining the soil core (Figure 6), users will record the soil type in the checklist. Soil texture can be
recorded based on texture by feel (Figure 7) or to approximate the relative percentage of sand, silt and
clay as described in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil textural triangle (Figure 8).
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Figure 6. Obtaining a soil core
-------
yes
yes
SAND
yes
yes
10 ~
yes
yes
yes
¦yes
¦yes
¦yes
¦yes
Is soil too wet? n<
Is soil too dry?
Add dry soil to
soak up water
CLAY
SILTY
CLAY
SANDY
CLAY
SILTY
CLAY
LOAM
SILT
LOAM
LOAM
SANDY
LOAM
CLAY
LOAM
SANDY
CLAY
LOAM
LOAMY
SAND
START
Does soil form a ribbon?
Neither
grittiness nor
smoothness
predominates.
Neither
grittiness nor
smoothness
predominates.
Does soil feel
very smooth?
Does soil feel
very gritty?
Neither
grittiness nor
smoothness
predominates.
Does soil feel
very smooth?
Does soil feel
very gritty?
Does soil feel
very smooth?
Does soil feel
very gritty?
Does soil make a strong
ribbon 5 cm or longer
before breaking?
Does soil make a weak
ribbon less than 2.5 cm
long before breaking?
Does soil make a medium
ribbon 2.5-5 cm long
before breaking?
Does soil remain in a ball when squeezed?
Excessively wet a small pinch of soil in palm and rub with forefinger.
Place approximately 25 g soil in palm. Add water dropwise and knead
the soil to break down all aggregates. Soil is at the proper consistency
when plastic and moldable, like moist putty.
Place ball of soil between thumb and forefinger gently pushing the soil with the thumb, squeezing it
upward into a ribbon. Form a ribbon of uniform thickness and width. Allow the ribbon to emerge and
extend over the forefinger, breaking from its own weight.
Source: USDA, NRCS: http://www.nrcs.usda.aov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/edu/?cid=nrcsl42p2 054311
Figure 7. Identifying soil texture by feel.
-------
Soil Textural Triangle
100
NT
clay
silty
clay
sandy
clay
40
silty
clay loam
clay loam
sandy clay loam
loam
silt loam
sandy loam
NJoamy^
sand \sand
silt
-< Sand Separate, %
Source: USDA, NRCS: http://www.nrcs.usda.aov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/edu/?cid=nrcsl42p2 054311
-------
4.3 SOP3 - Vegetation Information Protocol
This protocol includes information on four invasive species
in the Buffalo region:
Phragmites (Figure 9)
Japanese Knotweed
Garlic Mustard
Loosestrife
Users should consult with NRCS's Invasive Species Information
Center (htips://www.invasivesDeciesinfo.gov/index.shtml) to
include invasive species that are specific to their area.
Users should take photos of ali types of vegetation present at Source:
the site. http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/phaul.htm
Figure 9. A stand of Phragmites australis.
4.4 SOP4 - Waste and Debris Information Protocol
SOPS, Vegetation Information, guides the user through
the collection of data on vegetation Information collected
includes the percentage of the site covered in vegetation,
the type of vegetation (e.g., grass, brush), the presence and
extent of trees at the site, and presence and extent of
invasive species.
SOP4, Waste and Debris Information, guides
the user through the collection of data for
wastes and debris located on the property.
Users collect information on a variety of waste
materials, including construction debris, brush
piles, metal debris, and stained soils (Figure 10).
These data could be used to indicate soil
contamination at the property where
stormwater should not be infiltrated. Users
should take photos of waste and debris
materials present at the site. If potential
contamination is suspected at a property, one
resource to assess whether stormwater
infiltration is feasible is the EPA guidance
Implementing Stormwater Infiltration Practices
at Vacant Parcels and Brownfield Sites (EPA 2013b,
h tip://water, epa. aov/in frastructure/areenin frastructure/upload/brown field in filtration decision tool, pdf).
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Figure 10. Stained soil located on a property.
-------
4.5 SOP5 - Pervious/Impervious Surfaces Protocol
SOP5, Pervious/Impervious Surfaces, guides the
user through the collection of data on pervious and
impervious areas located on the property.
Information collected includes the percentage of
the site that is pervious and impervious, description
of the impervious areas (e.g., concrete, asphalt,
other), and the presence of stormwater structures
and gutters. Users also perform an infiltration test
using a tension infiltrometer (Figure 11). Users
should take photos of impervious areas.
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Figure I I. The field crew performs an infiltration
test using a tension infiltrometer.
5 Technical Application
The project team designed a database and web application to accompany the protocol for BSA staff. The
Buffalo-specific database and web application allow a user to enter collected data into the database,
including site information, grading, existing vegetation, on-site stormwater retention, impervious
surfaces, and evidence of dumping or trash. These data are stored in the database and can be accessed
anytime via a computer.
The project team also developed the application programming interface (API) to allow for communication
between mobile devices and the core web-based application (Figures 12 and 13). The API was developed
to be flexible and allow for future additions. The team simultaneously developed a mobile technical
application and a web-based management tool so that the web-based application is accessible from any
authenticated, Internet-connected device. The mobile application, which can be uploaded to a mobile
device (e.g., a tablet) and used in the field, operates over both WiFi and cellular networks. Users can enter
-------
data directly into the application, take photos with the mobile device, and submit those with an
assessment. The mobile application makes use of GPS where applicable (for example, site search by
proximity).
10 ,B ¦
~ & 1:14
^ Site
SITE OUGAMJ j*
Soil typ
ENTER THE SOl
L TYPE FROM 1MFILTROW
kETlRSrTE 1
A
t
Sand
I
Loamy Sarid
Sandy Loam
Sift Loam
Loam
Sandy CJay Loam
Silly Clay Loam
Clay Loam
Sandy Clay
Silty Clay
Clay
Previous
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Next
Figure 12. Screen capture of Soil Type entry
screen for App
y £ a ¦
V a 2:49
XJp, Site
SITE DIAGRAM j
Review
FACING THE CENTER OF THE PROPERTY, TAKE A PHOTO
FROM THE STREET.
(None)
IS THERE A STANDING STRUCTURE ON THE PROPERTY?
No
YEAR DEMOLISHED
8/6/2001
IS THERE STANDING WATER ON THE PROPERTY?
Yes
WHICH QUADRANT(S) CONTAIN STANDING WATER?
[1.2,3]
ENTER THE AMOUNT OF PRECIPITATION IN THE LAST
TWO DAYS.
0.04
WHAT PERCENTAGE OF THE PROPERTY IS IMPERVIOUS?
[50%]
IF ANY, WHICH QUADRANTS ARE PRIMARILY
IMPERVIOUS?
[3]
WHAT IS THE COMPOSITION OF THE IMPERVIOUS AREA?
Clay/Compacted Soil
WHAT IS THE LAND USE AND CONDITION OF ADJACENT
PROPERTY 1?
Boarded Structure
Residential (BSR)
ARE THERE ANY DOWNSPOUTS VISIBLE
No
WHAT IS THE LAND USE AND CONDITION OF ADJACENT
PROPERTY 2?
Vacant Structure
Residential (VSR)
ARFTMFRPANV nnWNSPnirrS VISIRI P
Ypr
Previous
Submit Review
<7=>
[fzi1
Photo credit: Tetra Tech
Figure I 3. Screen shot of Review screen on the
mobile application.
6 Protocol Implementation Considerations
Implementation of the protocol wiil involve careful consideration of issues such as data variability, field
staff logistics, and soil variables at urban sites.
6.1 Variability of Data
There are several considerations that may impact the effectiveness of stormwater retention on a
property. At one time it was common for demolition debris to be buried on site, but more recent
-------
that unconsolidated demolition debris would affect a property's ability to retain stormwater. For this
reason, assessors should consider the age of the demolition when assessing the property.
In addition, the former location of the foundation and driveway could impact soil infiltration capacity.
Penetration tests could be used in these areas to confirm assumptions about soil compaction and
indicate whether construction debris is still present at the site.
Differing soil textures have different hydraulic characteristics affecting stormwater retention rates and
quantities. The soil classification required in the protocol will indicate the soil textures on the property.
The infiltration test will indicate how permeable to water the landscape is. Two infiltration
measurements are completed in the interest of time efficiency and to compare results.
6.2 Lessons Learned
After conducting several dozen urban vacant land assessments, BSA and the University of Buffalo noted
several lessons learned:
1. Soil conductivity tests take the most time compared to all other assessment tasks.
2. Soil variability has proven to be quite high, and significant time should be dedicated to assuring
soil texture by feel tests are conducted properly (see Figure 7).
3. Penetrometer tests can be noisy and distracting to residents and should be conducted at times
when they are the least disruptive.
4. Developing methodologies to account for underground obstructions and the refusal of
equipment such as the penetrometer and soil sampler must be put in place on urban sites.
5. Due to the larger number of sites, a system of data checking and oversight of the assessment
process needs to be in place to ensure quality results.
6.3 Opportunities for Further Analysis
The results of the penetration test will aid in determining where and to what extent debris is buried on
the property. The penetration test results could also be compared to the infiltration test and soil
textures to identify areas for potential green infrastructure practices. Additionally, the results of the
penetration test could be used to develop "typical" locations for former structure and driveway
locations, aiding in the assessment of a neighborhood or community with similar urban characteristics.
Results of the infiltration tests can be used to estimate the hydraulic conductivity (K) specific to each
property. This value could be compared to the anticipated values for the soil types encountered on the
site to look for anomalies or compacted soil conditions. The K could be used to estimate the ability of
the vacant lot to detain stormwater runoff volume (see Shuster et al. 2014 for more information).
7 Conclusion
The project team successfully prepared a Protocol and an associated technical application to assess
property information, site grading, existing vegetation, evidence of dumping or trash, impervious areas,
soil texture, soil compaction, and soil hydrology for the vacant lots located in the City of Buffalo.
-------
The results of vacant lot assessments can be used to assess large numbers of parcels for stormwater
infiltration potential and to target resources to the sites that provide the largest benefit in terms of
stormwater retention. The vacant lot assessments should take approximately 1-2 hours per lot,
depending on the number of field staff involved. The short time spent on site results in a large amount
of data that can be used to assess and analyze impacts of these vacant lots.
As vacant properties are assessed and data are entered into the technical application, BSA will be better
able to evaluate the effectiveness of the vacant lots as stormwater runoff retention areas. This protocol
and technical application could serve as a model for similar communities needing to assess the
stormwater and green infrastructure performance of post-demolition vacant lots.
There are a number of additional resources that readers may want to consider. A similar vacant lot
assessment was conducted in Cleveland, Ohio, and described in Shuster et al. 2014. EPA's On the Road
to Reuse: Residential Demolition Bid Specification Development Tool (EPA 2013a) includes a menu of bid
specification development tools for municipalities involved in residential demolition operations. EPA has
also developed a guidance document to help assess infiltration potential at vacant lots (EPA 2013b).
8 References
EPA. 2013a. On the Road to Reuse: Residential Demolition Bid Specification Development Tool. EPA 560-
K-12-002. http://www2.epa.gov/large-scale-residential-demolition/road-reuse-residential-
demolition-bid-specification-development.
EPA. 2013b. Stormwater Infiltration Practices at Vacant Parcels and Brownfield Sites. EPA 905-F-13-001.
http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/greeninfrastructure/upload/brownfield infiltration decisio
n tool.pdf.
Shuster, W.D., S. Dadio, P. Drohan, R. Losco, and J. Shaffer. 2014. Residential demolition and its impact
on vacant lot hydrology: Implications for the management of stormwater and sewer system
overflows. Landscape and Urban Planning 125:48-56.
-------
Appendix A - Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
1 Equipment and Preparation
A-l
2 SOP 1 - General Site Information Protocol
A-3
3 SOP 2 - Elevation, Transects, and Station Point Data
4 SOP 3 - Vegetation Data
5 SOP 4 - Waste and Debris Data
A-14
A-ll
A-5
6 SOP 5 - Pervious/Impervious Surface Data
A-16
I Equipment and Preparation
Before starting any vacant land assessments, each field team must ensure it has the proper equipment
and is prepared to conduct the assessments.
I.I Equipment and Materials
Each team should have the following equipment available to them as they conduct the vacant land
assessment:
Badges/permits/right of entry
Safety traffic vest and steel toed shoes
Map of subject properties
Field notebook
SOPs, protocol, maps, site sketches
Field camera/photographic documentation
Field in containing:
- Pencils/pens
- 5 gallon bucket lid
- String
- Pin flags
- Survey stakes
- 2 tape measures
- Hammer
- Gloves
- Trash bag
- Emergency first aid kit
- Safety traffic vest(s)
- Safety glasses
- Hardhat (if overhead hazards are present)
Cell phone
- Cell phone car charger
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
1.2 Badges/Permits/Right of Entry
Obtain proper badges for identification in the field in case there are questions from an authority (e.g.,
police) or inquisitive neighbors. The City may want to conduct outreach to residents explaining the
purpose of the Vacant Land Assessment and explaining that field crews will be in their neighborhood. A
brief letter from the City describing the vacant land assessment protocol purpose and who to contact
with any questions may be helpful (the field team should have multiple copies of this letter to hand out).
Ensure any special access requirements have been addressed prior to field visit to eliminate wait time or
having to visit a site more than once.
1.3 Map of Subject Properties
Identify all properties in inspector's given cluster/s. Verify the address to a location on the map. Devise a
route to visit each subject property in the cluster to save time and mileage.
1.4 SOPs, Protocol, Checklist, Site Sketches
All field personnel must have a copy of the Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol and associated SOPs
with them at all times. The Protocol Checklist must be completed before leaving each site to ensure the
checklist was filled out accurately and completely.
The Protocol Checklist will be used to document all field operations and will contain sufficient data and
information to reconstruct field activities for a specific day. At a minimum, the Checklist will contain:
Date and time the field work started and completed
Names and titles of field personnel and those present onsite
Location and description of the property site
Meteorological conditions at the start of field work and changes in these conditions
A sketch of the subject property to be scanned at the end of the day and stored with the site
data
Data collected in accordance with the SOPs
Any deviations from the Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol or SOP(s)
1.5 Camera/Photographic Documentation
Photographs will be taken throughout the field work to further document the environmental setting and
conditions and to record remarkable or noteworthy visual characteristics of site features. Photo
documentation will include photographs of the study site, physical setting, and any remarkable
observations.
Photographs should be organized by site. Assessors can help organize photos by making sure the first
photo at each site includes the site address and/or tax ID number (take a picture of the checklist with
this information filled out).
1.6 Safety
Field personnel may be working in areas with elevated crime rates. For this reasons, a safety program
may be useful to support the field staff conducting assessments. The safety program could provide an
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
emergency protocol detailing the step-by-step notifications required in the event of an emergency and
include the locations of hospitals or medical clinics. Communities planning for this kind of effort may
want to coordinate with the local police department as well as conduct a general public education and
outreach campaign to make citizens aware of the project's purpose and goals.
All field crews should have a working, charged cell phone with them at all times for communication.
2 SOP I - General Site Information Protocol
2.1 General site data collection
The assessor should complete the general site information section of the Protocol Checklist. This section
includes basic information about the property being assessed, including address, tax ID number, and site
size as well as the date of the assessment and the beginning/ending times of the assessment.
The assessor should orient themselves to the subject property along the street front facing the property
as indicated in Figure 1. Figure 1 also provides information on defining the station points, quadrants, and
adjacent property numbering system.
Site Characteristics (Checklist items II.1 to 11.5 and V.7)
11.1. Is there a standing structure on site? Yes/No. If no, what year was the structure demolished?
11.2. Is there standing water on the property? Yes/No. If yes, where? (which quadrant(s) - 1, 2, 3, 4, or
N/A). If yes, was the last precipitation event in the last 48 hours? What was the amount? Enter date and
time last precipitation event ended. Enter amount of last precipitation event.
11.3. Are there curb cuts present? Yes/No
11.4. Are there any gutters or down spouts on or facing the property? Yes/No
11.5. What are the conditions/land uses of the nearby properties? Refer to Figure 1. Document the
condition for Adjacent Properties 1, 2, and 3 as well as the opposite parcel. Typical conditions/land uses
include:
BSR- Boarded Structure Residential
BSC - Boarded Structure Commercial
VSR - Vacant Structure Residential
VSC - Vacant Structure Commercial
VP - Vacant Parcel
OS - Occupied Home / Structure
MG - Managed Green Space
OT - Other (Describe)
V.7. Are there any dumping, downed wires, or other unsafe conditions that would require rapid
inspection and clean-up from the city? Yes/No
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
2.2 Final Checks
Obtain proper badges and all required permits (if needed).
Bring field notebook and all documentation (protocol, maps, SOPs, etc.).
Bring field bin with all items including an emergency first aid kit.
Employ the buddy system and remember field work has its hazards.
Adjacent Parcel 2 (AP2)
SP2
SP3
\
\QUAD1
QUAD 2
SPo^v
JsP7
Adjacent Parcel 1 (AP1)
\
Adjacent Parcel 3 (AP3)
/
SP5 (2
^P9
sp8
SP1
/QUAD 3
QUAD 4 \
SP4
Sidewalk
Road
Sidewalk
Opposite Parcel (OP)
Legend
0 SP - Station Point
Transect Lines (OP) Opposite Parcel
1 Quadrant ID (AP) Adjacent Parcel
Site Layout Protocol
City Of Buffalo
Demolition Assessments
Figure I. Site Assessment Layout
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
3 SOP 2 - Elevation, Transects, and Station Point Data
3.1 Overview
The vacant land assessment will require the collection of elevation, transect, and station point
information. A step-by-step protocol has been developed and should be followed closely by field
personnel. Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) representatives should be used to train the
inspectors on the soil feel test and soil classification. Soil education from NRCS is available at
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/soils/edu/.
3.2 Site Transect Protocol
1. Place pin flags or pound survey stakes into the ground at Station Points SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4.
2. String measuring tapes from Station Points SP1-SP3 and SP4-SP2 to create two transects using
level to establish baseline.
3. Locate SP9 at intersection of tapes.
4. Locate 4 points along each transect tape by dividing length of transect by 4 to determine mid-
points.
5. Flag all 9 Station Points.
3.3 Station Point, Penetration Test, and Soil Core Protocols
A series of measurements will be required for each Station Point. Table 1 summarizes the required data
to be collected.
Table I. Summary of Required Station Point Data
Station Point
Status
Penetration Test
Soil Core
Infiltration Test
SP1
X
X
SP2
X
X
X*
X*
SP3
X
X
X*
X*
SP4
X
X
SP5
X
X
SP6
X
X
SP7
X
X
SP8
X
X
SP9
X
X
X
X
*Choose SP2 or SP3. Depending on the driveway location in the neighborhood, select the area most likely to NOT be located
under driveway.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Station Point Status Protocol
1. Describe the 2' diameter area at each SP using the 5-gallon bucket lid to demark area. Options
include: vegetated grass, vegetated other, bare earth, sealed soil/pavement/structure.
2. Take photographs while tapes are still in place.
3. Measure the following elevations:
What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP1 x.x ft
What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP2 x.x ft
What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP3 x.x ft
What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP4 x.x ft
Penetration Test Protocol
It is recommended that the assessors perform penetration tests at all nine (9) station points,
however penetration test data can be collected from less than all nine (9) station points.
1. Drive the single mass dynamic cone penetrometer (Figure 2) or equivalent at all station points.
Atypical penetrometer design is shown below.
2. Record the number of blows to 2 inches (one increment), 4 inches (two increments), and
6 inches (three increments) or to refusal depth, and for a maximum of 30 blows.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
CfMtfSUj
Redescubr/endo los Suelos
(Photo Credit: Jessie Mullane, EPA ORISE)
Figure 2. Single-Mass Dynamic Cone Penetrometer
Soil Core Protocol
1. Advance the soil tube sampler to a depth of one (1) foot and collect a soil core for SP9, record
depth and type of soil recovered, and take photograph. Offset soil core within 10 feet of core
location if refusal is encountered.
2. Select SP2 or SP3 depending on driveway location in neighborhood. Collect a soil core for SP2 or
SP3, record depth and type of soil recovered, and take photograph.
3. Identify soil type using the NRCS soil textural triangle or by soil texture by feel (see Figures 3 and
4 below for description).
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Place approximately 25 g soil in palm. Add water dropwise and knead
the soil to break down all aggregates. Soil is at the proper consistency <
when plastic and moldable, like moist putty.
T
yes
Add dry soil to
soak up water
Does soil remain in a ball when squeezed? nc^ Is soil too dry? no-^ Is soil too wet? n<
1
yes
SAND
Place ball of soil between thumb and forefinger gently pushing the soil with the thumb, squeezing it
upward into a ribbon. Form a ribbon of uniform thickness and width. Allow the ribbon to emerge and
extend over the forefinger, breaking from its own weight.
( LOAMY A ^
l SAND f*"no
Does soil form a ribbon?
yes
J±_
Does soil make a weak
ribbon less than 2.5 cm
long before breaking?
yes
_4_
Does soil make a medium
Does soil make a strong
ribbon 2.5-5 cm long
no ~
ribbon 5 cm or longer
before breaking?
before breaking?
1
yes
1
yes
~
+
Excessively wet a small pinch of soil in palm and rub with forefinger.
SANDY
LOAM
Does soil feel
very gritty?
T
no
jL
yes-
Does soil feel
very smooth?
LOAM
Neither
grittiness nor
smoothness
predominates.
SANDY
CLAY
LOAM
Does soil feel
very gritty?
'yes-
Does soil feel
very smooth?
T
no
Neither
grittiness nor
-
smoothness
predominates.
( SANDY V*
I CLAY KyeS
Does soil feel
very gritty?
¦yes-
Does soil feel
very smooth?
^clay^4v
Source: USDA, NRCS. http://www.nrcs.usda.aov/wos/oortal/nrcs/detail/soils/edu/?cid=nrcsl42p2 054311
Figure 3. Identifying soil texture by feel.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Soil Textural Triangle
sandy
40 clay
sandy clay loam
-< Sand Separate, %
Source: USDA. NRCS. httD://www.nrcs.usda.aov/v
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
3.4 Elevation, Transects, and Station Point Information Data Collection
The step-by-step sequence for populating the Elevation, Transects, and Station Point Information in the
checklist is described below:
Station Point Status (checklist items III.1 to III.7)
111.1. What is the general slope of the property? Enter the general slope such as slopes front to back or
slopes east to west
111.2. Is there a depression on the site? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))? Select from: 1, 2, 3, 4, or N/A
111.3. Is there a high point on the site? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))? Select from: 1, 2, 3, 4, or N/A
111.4. What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP1?
111.5. What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP2?
111.6. What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP3?
111.7. What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP4?
Penetration Test Results (checklist items 111.8 to 111.16)
For each of the station points where the penetration test was conducted, enter the penetration results.
For Status, choose from VG- Vegetated Grass, VO- Vegetated Other, BE- Bare Earth, or SS- Sealed
Soil/Pavement/Structure. Enter number of penetrometer blows for the 2-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch
intervals.
Soil Test (checklist items 111.17 to 111.18)
111.17. What is the SP9 soil depth and type?
111.18. What is the SP2/SP3 soil depth and type? Indicate whether soil depth was taken from SP2 or SP3.
3.5 Final Checks
Confirm all required elevation, transect, and station point data has been collected.
Confirm photographic documentation has been collected while the measuring tapes are still in
place.
Collect photographs of soil cores.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
4 SOP 3 - Vegetation Data
4.1 Overview
The urban vacant land assessment will require the identification of vegetation including grass, brush,
and trees, along with invasive species. This protocol includes invasive species specific to Buffalo. NRCS's
Invasive Species Information Center (httos://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/index.shtml) has information
on invasive species that are specific to different areas around the country.
Invasive species in Buffalo include phragmites, Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and loosestrife.
Assessors are required to identify these species at the subject properties. To aid in this effort, example
photographs have been included in this SOP in section 4.3. If assessors are not comfortable identifying
these species, then the assessor should be paired with an assessor that is capable of identifying the
vegetation. Additional training on species identification should also be considered.
4.2 Populating the Vegetation Site Information Data
The step-by-step sequence for populating the Vegetation Site Information in the data entry form is
described below:
Vegetation (checklist items IV.l to IV.7)
IV. What percentage of the site is covered with vegetation?
IV. 1. Are there trees present on site? If yes, what percentage of the site is covered with trees?
IV.2. Is there significant grass on site? If yes, what percentage of the site is covered with grass?
IV.3. Is there significant brush vegetation on site? This is referring to plants that could be mowed over
and not grass. If yes, what percentage of the site is covered with brush?
IV.4. Is there Phragmites on site? See Section 4.3 for photographic examples of Phragmites. If yes, where
(which quadrant(s))? See Figure 1 for site orientation/layout.
IV.5. Is there Knotweed on site? See Section 4.3 for photographic examples of Knotweed. If yes, where
(which quadrant(s))?
IV.6. Is there Garlic Mustard on site? See Section 4.3 for photographic examples of Garlic Mustard. If yes,
where (which quadrant(s))?
IV.7. Is there Loosestrife on site? See Section 4.3 for photographic examples of Loostrife. If yes, where
(which quadrant(s))?
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
4.3 Vegetation Examples
Phragmites, the non-native Phragmites australis, or common
reed, can rapidly form dense stands of stems which crowd out
or shade native vegetation in inland and estuary wetland areas.
Japanese knotweed, (Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. & Zucc,), a
member of the buckwheat family, was introduced into the U.S.
from Eastern Asia (Japan, China, Korea) as an ornamental on
estates in the late-1800s. The plant, which can grow from three
to 15 feet tall, has bamboo-like stems and is sometimes called
Japanese bamboo.
Garlic Mustard is a herbaceous biennial plant growing from a
deeply growing, thin, white taproot that is scented like
horseradish. In the first year, plants appear as a rosette of green
leaves close to the ground. The leaves are stalked, triangular to
heart-shaped. The flowers are produced in spring and summer
in button-like clusters. A single plant can produce hundreds of
seeds, which scatter as much as several meters from the parent
plant.
Loosestrife typically have square stems, narrow stalkless leaves,
and spikes of star-shaped flowers in shades of purple, pink and
white. Loosestrife are usually associated with boggy areas, river
banks and ponds, though in cultivation they often tolerate drier
conditions.
(Photo credit:
http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/phaul
.htm)
Figure 5. A stand of Phragmites.
(Photo credit:
http://www.co.stevens.wa.us/weedboard/other%20
weeds/HTM%20oaaes/iapanese%20knotweed.htm)
Figure 6. Thick patch of Knotweed.
(Photo credit:
http://www.co.stevens.wa.us/weedboard/other%20weeds/HTM
%20paaes/iapanese%20knotweed.htm)
Figure 7. Japanese Knotweed in flower.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
¦¦IKjij
(Photo credit: htto://www.nDs.aov/Dlants/alien/fact/aloel.htm)
Figure 8. Garlic Mustard,
Photo credit:
http://www.nDS.gov/Dlants/alien/fact
/Ivsal.htm
Figure 9. Loosestrife.
4.4 Final Checks
Remember to take picture of vegetative species, particularly phragmites and Japanese
knotweed.
Confirm all required Vegetative Information Data has been collected.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
5 SOP 4 - Waste and Debris Data
5.1 Overview
The vacant land assessment will require the identification of waste items located on the subject
properties. Waste items anticipated to be observed on site are:
Refuse
Automotive debris
Brush debris
Metal debris
Construction debris
Presence of stained soil
Section 5.3 has more information on the various types of waste expected to be observed. Additional
training on waste identification should also be considered if the assessors are having difficulties
identifying waste items.
5.2 Populating the Waste Data
The following is the step-by-step sequence for populating the Waste Information in the data entry form:
Waste and Debris (checklist items V.l to V.7)
V.l. Is there trash on the property? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))? See Figure 1 for site
orientation/layout.
V.2. Is there automotive waste on the property? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))?
V.3. Is there brush debris on the property? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))?
V.4. Is there metal debris on the property? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))?
V.5. Is there construction debris on the property? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))?
V.6. Is there stained soil on the property? If yes, where (which quadrant(s))?
VII. Include in the Notes section any information on waste and debris at the site that is not captured in
the above questions.
Ensure all data fields associated with the waste data information have been completely filled in.
Document any waste observed with photographs.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
5.3 Debris examples
Wmm
(photo credit: Tetra Tech) (photo credit: Tetra Tech)
Figure 10. Example of Metal Debris Figure I I. Example of Construction Debris
(photo credit: Tetra Tech)
Figure 12. Example of stained soil
5.4 Final Checks
Remember to take pictures of waste observed onsite.
Confirm all required Waste Information Data has been collected.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
6 SOP 5 - Pervious/Impervious Surface Data
6.1 Infiltration Test Procedures
Follow the procedures below to determine the infiltration rate for a location at the site:
1. Locate two test locations in the center of the property free of debris. Mark the location of each
infiltration test on the site sketch.
2. Fill Mini Disc Portable Tension Infiltrometers with tap water. Adjust the air tube so that it is 2 cm
(two increments below the water surface in the top compartment). (The instrument is
illustrated below.)
3. Place a thin 1-2 cm thick layer of #550 sand or equivalent at test locations.
4. Place the first Mini Disc Portable Tension Infiltrometer at the test location 1.
5. Record 0.5-, 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 10-, 15-, and 20-minute interval water levels.
6. Place the second Mini Disc Portable Tension Infiltrometer at the test location 2 approximately
one foot away from test location 1.
7. Record 0.5-, 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 10-, 15-, 20-minute interval water levels.
8. Allow the test to run until equilibrated, typically 20-30 minutes.
9. Calculate steady-state inflow rate in milliliters per minute (ml/min); see example below.
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Bujjejedas ajojaq ui
Aiqujsssv xog oj
Source: Jessie Mullarie, EPA ORISE
Figure 13. Mini Disc Portable Tension Infiltrometer
Steady-State Inflow Rate Example
An example of the infiltrometer results, where you are looking for three equal drops in water level over
three equal time intervals, follows:
-------
Appendix A - Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
For example:
Calculated
Time
Water Level
Interval Rate
(min.)
(ml)
(min/ml)
0
80
0.5
78
4
1
76
4
2
75
1
3
74
1
4
73
1
5
72
1
10
67
1
15
62
1
20
57
1
Therefore, the steady-state inflow rate = 1 ml/min.
6.2 Populating the Pervious Impervious Information Data
The step by step sequence for populating the Pervious/Impervious Information in the Protocol Checklist
is described below:
Pervious/Impervious surfaces (checklist sections VI.1 to VI.6)
VI.1. What percentage of the site is impervious? If impervious areas exist, where (which quadrant(s))?
What is the composition of the impervious area? For example: Asphalt, Concrete, Other
VI.2. What percentage of the site is pervious? If pervious areas exist, where (which quadrant(s))? See
Figure 1 for site orientation/layout.
VI.3. Are there storm water structures such as inlets, culverts, or retention areas on or adjacent to the
property? If yes, provide details on location and description of structure.
VI.4. Are there any stormwater gutters on the streets adjacent to the property? If yes, provide details on
location and description of gutters.
VI.5. Enter results of infiltration test number 1. Include units (usually ml/min).
VI.6. Enter results of infiltration test number 2. Include units (usually ml/min).
6.3 Final Checks
Remember to take picture of impervious areas observed on the property.
Confirm all required Pervious/Impervious Information Data have been collected.
Confirm infiltration test results have been recorded.
-------
-------
Urban Vacant Land Assessment Protocol Checklist
General Site Information
Site Address
Tax ID Number
Site owner
(if available)
Date of
Assessment
Field staff
Time Began
Time Completed
Weather during
assessment
Site size (ft2)
Latitude of SP1
(see Fig. 1)
Longitude of SP1
SP2
Adjacent ParceH (AP1)
SP1
Adjacent Parcel 2 (AP2)
SP6
SP8
SP3
Adjacent Parcel 3 (AP3)
SP4
Sidewalk
Road
Sidewalk
Opposite Parcel (OP)
Figure 1. Guide for identifying site features
II. Site Characteristics
1.) Is there a standing structure on site?
Y/N
If no, what year was the structure demolished?
2.) Is there standing water on the
property?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
Was the last precipitation event in the last 48 hrs?
What was the amount?
3.) Are there curb cuts present?
Y/N
4.) Are there any gutters or down spouts
on or facing the property?
Y/N
If yes, describe.
5.) What are the conditions or land uses of the nearby properties? (Refer to Figure 1.
Land use
Adjacent
Parcel 1
Adjacent
Parcel 2
Adjacent
Parcel 3
Opposite Parcel
Boarded Structure Residential (BSR)
Boarded Structure Commercial (BSC)
Vacant Structure Residential (VSR)
Vacant Structure Commercial (VSC)
Vacant Parcel (VP)
Occupied Home / Structure (OS)
Managed Green Space (MG)
Other (OT)
Describe:
*See Figure 1 for a description of how to identify the layout and features of the site.
-------
III. Elevation, Transects, and Station Points
Station Point Status
1.) What is the general slope of the property?
2.) Is there a depression on the site?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
3.) Is there a high point on the site?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
4.) What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP1?
5.) What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP2?
6.) What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP3?
7.) What is the elevation change from SP9 to SP4?
Penetration Test
Station
Point
Status?
Penetration Results (in number of blows)
2 inch depth
4 inch depth
6 inch depth
8.) SP1
9.) SP2
10.) SP3
11.) SP4
12.) SP5
13.) SP6
14.) SP7
15.) SP8
16.) SP9
f Choose from VG-Vegetated Grass, VO-Vegetated Other, BE-Bare Earth, SS-Sealed Soil/Pavement/Structure
Soil Test
17). What is the SP9 soil depth and type?
Depth
Type
18). What is the SP2/SP3 soil depth and type?
Indicate whether sample was taken from SP2 or SP3.
Depth
Type
SP2 or SP3
IV. Vegetation
What percentage of the site is covered with vegetation?
1.) Are there trees present on site?
Y/N
If yes, what percentage of the site is
covered with trees?
2.) Is there significant grass on site?
Y/N
If yes, what percentage of the site is
covered with grass?
3.) Is there significant brush vegetation on site?
Y/N
If yes, what percentage of the site is
covered with brush?
4.) Is there Phragmites on site?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
5.) Is there Knotweed on site?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
6.) Is there Garlic Mustard on site?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
7.) Is there Loosestrife on site?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
*See Figure 1 for a description of how to identify the layout and features of the site.
-------
V. Waste and Debris
1.) Is there trash on the property?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
2.) Is there automotive waste on the property?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
3.) Is there brush debris on the property?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
4.) Is there metal debris on the property?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
5.) Is there construction debris on the property?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
6.) Is there stained soil on the property?
Y/N
If yes, in which quadrant(s)?
7.) Are there any unsafe conditions (e.g.,
excessive dumping, downed wires) that
would require rapid inspection and clean-up
from the city?
Y/N
If yes, describe.
VI. Pervious/Impervious Surfaces
1.) What percentage of the site is impervious?
If pervious areas exist, in which
quadrant(s are they)?
2.) What percentage of the site is pervious?
If impervious areas exist, in which
quadrant(s) are they? What is the
composition of the impervious area?
3.) Are there storm water structures such as
inlets, culverts, or retention areas on or
adjacent to the property?
Y/N
If yes, provide details on the location and
a description of structure.
4.) Are there any storm water gutters on the
streets adjacent to the property?
Y/N
If yes, provide details on the location and
a description of gutters.
5.) Enter results of infiltration test number 1.
Location of infiltration test number 1:
6.) Enter results of infiltration test number 2.
Location of infiltration test number 2:
VII. Notes
*See Figure 1 for a description of how to identify the layout and features of the site.
-------
VII. Sketch of the Site
Use this space to sketch the site or to provide any other important details.
*See Figure 1 for a description of how to identify the layout and features of the site.
------- |