4.7 Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

LLNL was established in 1952 and currently occupies approximately 332 ha (821 acres) next to Livermore, CA (Livermore Site), and 2,800 ha (7,000 acres) at Site 300, approximately 29 km (18 mi) southeast of Livermore in support of missions discussed in section 3.2.7. The locations of the sites are illustrated in figure 4.7-1. Figure 4.7-2 shows the DOE property boundaries for the Livermore Site.

4.7.1 Description of Alternatives

No Action. LLNL would continue to perform the missions described in section 3.2.7.

Stockpile Management Alternatives. The secondary and case fabrication mission, the HE fabrication mission, and a portion of the nonnuclear fabrication mission could be located at LLNL. The HE fabrication mission could also be shared with LANL.

Stockpile Stewardship Alternatives. The Contained Firing Facility (CFF) would be located at Site 300 and the proposed NIF could be located at the Livermore Site.

4.7.2 Affected Environment

The following sections describe the affected environment at the LLNL main site (Livermore Site) and Site 300 for land resources, air quality, water resources, geology and soils, biotic resources, cultural and paleontological resources, and socioeconomics. In addition, the infrastructure, radiation and hazardous chemical environment, waste management conditions, and current intersite transport issues are described.

4.7.2.1 Land Resources

LLNL consists of two sites: the main facility (approximately 332 ha [821 acres]) at Livermore, and Site 300 (approximately 2,800 ha [7,000 acres]) in the Tracy Hills, approximately 29 km (18 mi) east of the Livermore Site. Both sites are owned by the Federal Government and administered, managed, and controlled by DOE.

Livermore Site . Generalized land uses within the Livermore Site and in the immediate vicinity are shown in figure 4.7.2.1-1. The site itself is categorized into a variety of land uses, with the vast majority dedicated to R&D. The R&D designation includes office facilities, light and heavy laboratories, and light industrial facilities in direct support of programmatic endeavors. A significant portion of the site is classified as undeveloped and industrial uses occupy a substantial amount of land. There are no prime farmlands on the Livermore Site.

The Livermore Site is bordered on the east by Greenville Road. Land use on the east is primarily agricultural. The South Bay Aqueduct, a branch of the California Aqueduct, crosses Greenville Road just south of the Livermore Site. Patterson Pass Road borders the Livermore Site on the north. Land to the immediate north of Patterson Road is light industrial and vacant land. The Patterson Reservoir and filtration plant, part of the South Bay Aqueduct system, are located northeast of the site. The Livermore Site is bordered on the west by South Vasco Road. Land use to the west is primarily urban residential, with some vacant land.

The Livermore Site is bordered on the south by East Avenue. Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, is located immediately adjacent and south of East Avenue. A small light-industrial park is located on the southwest corner of East Avenue and South Vasco Road. The remainder of lands south of the Livermore Site and Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, are primarily agricultural, comprised of vineyards and rangeland primarily used for grazing. There are also some rural residences in these areas. The closest residences to the boundaries of the Livermore Site are 0.4 km (0.25 mi) to the east, 0.56 km (0.35 mi) to the west, 2.0 km (1.2 mi) to the north, and 0.8 km (0.50 mi) to the south.

Site 300 . Generalized land uses within Site 300 and in the immediate vicinity are shown in figure 4.7.2.1-2. The site itself consists of a large percentage of undeveloped territory and land dedicated to both R&D and industrial functions. There are no prime farmlands on Site 300. No significant land use changes are projected for Site 300 at present (LLNL 1995k:16-19).

The majority of the land surrounding Site 300 is agricultural and is primarily used for grazing sheep and cattle. There are two, privately operated, research and testing facilities located near Site 300. Physics International is located adjacent to the east boundary, and Stanford Research Institute International is approximately 0.97 km (0.60 mi) south of the site. Both of these facilities conduct HE testing similar to that conducted at Site 300 (LL DOE 1992c:4-6). Corral Hollow Road borders Site 300 on the south. Adjacent to the western portion of Site 300, across Corral Hollow Road, is the Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area. This area covers approximately 6,483 ha (16,020 acres) and is operated by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, for the exclusive use of off-road vehicles. Several rural residences are located along Corral Hollow Road, west of Site 300 and the Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area. The closest residences to the boundaries of Site 300 are 0.48 km (0.3 mi) to the east, 0.16 km (0.1 mi) to the west, 3.5 km (2.2 mi) to the north, and 0.72 km (0.45 mi) to the south. The nearest urban area is the city of Tracy, approximately 13 km (8.1 mi) to the northeast.

4.7.2.2 Site Infrastructure

Section 3.2.7 describes the current missions at LLNL. To support these missions an infrastructure exists as shown in table 4.7.2.2-1.

Table 4.7.2.2-1.-- Baseline Characteristics for Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

4.7.2.3 Air Quality

This section describes existing air quality, including a review of the meteorology and climatology in the vicinity of the Livermore Site and Site 300. More detailed discussions of the air quality methodologies, input data, and atmospheric dispersion characteristics are presented in appendix section B.3.7.

Meteorology and Climatology. The climate at the Livermore Site, Site 300, and the surrounding region is classic Mediterranean with hot dry summers and cold wet winters. The average annual temperature at the Livermore Site is 12.5 °C (54.5 °F); the normal seasonal temperature range is defined by winter nighttime lows in the vicinity of 0 °C (32 °F) and summer daytime highs around 38 °C (100.4 °F). The highest and lowest annual precipitation on record are 78.2 cm (30.8 in) and 13.8 cm (5.4 in), respectively. Prevailing winds at the Livermore Site are from the west and southwest. The climate at Site 300, while similar to the Livermore Site, is modified by higher elevation and more pronounced relief. The temperature range is somewhat more extreme than the Livermore Site. Topography significantly influences surface wind patterns at Site 300 with prevailing winds from the west-southwest (LLNL 1993b:1-2,1-3).

Ambient Air Quality. The Livermore Site is located within the San Francisco Bay Area Air Quality Management District. With respect to attainment of the NAAQS (40 CFR 50), this area has been designated as follows: A part of Alameda County, which is in the San Francisco Bay Area Air Quality Management District, is designated as nonattainment for carbon monoxide (with a classification of moderate 12.7 ppm) and ozone (with a classification of moderate) (40 CFR 81.305). Site 300 is located within the San Joaquin Valley Unified Air Pollution Control District. The area is classified as a nonattainment area for ozone (with a classification of serious) and PM10 (with a classification of serious) (40 CFR 81.305). Applicable NAAQS and California State ambient air quality standards are presented in appendix table B.3.1-1 .

The primary emission sources of criteria air pollutants at the Livermore Site and Site 300 are numerous boilers, solvent cleaning operations, emergency generators, and various experimental, testing, and process sources. Emission estimates for these sources are presented in appendix table B.3.7-1 .

Several PSD Class I areas have been designated in the vicinity of the Livermore Site, including Point Reyes National Wilderness Area, approximately 89 km (55 mi) to the northwest; and Desolation National Wilderness Area, Mokelumne National Wilderness Area, Emigrant National Wilderness Area, Hoover National Wilderness Area, and Yosemite National Park, approximately 160 to 190 km (100 to 120 mi), respectively, to the east and northeast. Since the promulgation of the PSD regulations (40 CFR 52.21) in 1977, no PSD permits have been required for any emission sources at the Livermore Site.

Table 4.7.2.3-1.--Comparison of Baseline Ambient Air Concentrations with Most Stringent Applicable Regulations and Guidelines at the Livermore Site and Site 300, 1993 and 1994

The State of California employs a health-risk based program for toxic air pollutants. As required by the California Air Toxic "Hot Spots" Information and Assessment Act of 1987 (AB2588), the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and the San Joaquin Valley Unified Air Pollution Control District requested that the Livermore Site and Site 300 assess the impact of toxic air emissions on the surrounding area. The risks at the Livermore Site were found to be below the threshold values that are used to determine need for further evaluation. The Site 300 toxic air pollutant inventory has been completed and will be submitted to the San Joaquin Valley Unified Air Pollution Control District for review to determine if a risk assessment is required (LLNL 1993b:2-24).

The "Hot Spots" program, however, is not applicable to the other stockpile stewardship and management candidate sites. To compare with the other stockpile stewardship and management candidate sites, the predicted maximum 8-hour concentrations for toxic air pollutants are provided. Table 4.7.2.3-1 presents the baseline ambient air concentrations for criteria pollutants and other hazardous/toxic air pollutants of concern at the Livermore Site and Site 300. As shown in the table, criteria pollutant baseline concentrations are in compliance with applicable guidelines and regulations, with the exception of 1-hour nitrogen dioxide at the Livermore Site.

4.7.2.4 Water Resources

This section describes the surface and groundwater resources at LLNL. This site includes the facilities in the Livermore Valley and at Site 300, referred to here as Livermore Site and Site 300, respectively.

Surface Water

Livermore Site. The main surface water features at the Livermore Site are the Arroyo Las Positas and Arroyo Seco. Arroyo Las Positas drains in the hills directly east and northeast of the Livermore Site and usually flows only after storms (figure 4.7.2.4-1). This channel enters the Livermore Site from the east, is diverted along a storm ditch around the northern edge of the site, and exits the site at the northwest corner. Arroyo Seco flows through the very southwest corner of the Livermore Site. Arroyo Las Positas flows into Arroyo Seco west of the site. Both stream channels are dry for most of the year.

Nearly all surface water runoff at the Livermore Site is discharged into Arroyo Las Positas; only surface water runoff along the southern boundary and some storm drains in the southwest corner of the Livermore Site drain into Arroyo Seco (LL DOE 1992c:4-147). The locations of hydrological features are shown in figure 4.7.2.4-1.

Two areas on the Livermore Site are within the 100-year floodplains of the Arroyo Las Positas and Arroyo Seco. However no existing onsite structures are within the 100-year floodplain. The channels routing Arroyo Las Positas and Arroyo Seco through the Livermore Site would be able to contain a 100-year flood. The 500-year flood levels have not been delineated.

The total annual water use at the Livermore Site is currently 968 MLY (256 MGY). LLNL receives water from two suppliers. During the summer months, June through August, deliveries are taken primarily from the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Quality Conservation District Zone 7. This water is a mixture of groundwater and water from the South Bay Aqueduct of the State Water Project. For the remainder of the year, LLNL's water usually is supplied from the Hetch-Hetchy Aqueduct.

Approximately 400 MLY (106 MGY) of wastewater from the Livermore Site is discharged to the city of Livermore sewer system and processed at the Livermore Water Reclamation Plant (LLNL 1994a:5-1). This wastewater includes sanitary and industrial discharges from the Livermore Site and Sandia National Laboratories. The discharges are permitted by the city of Livermore and monitored for pH, selected metals, and radioactivity (LLNL 1994a:5-2). LLNL also monitors the waters of the Livermore Site, Site 300, and surrounding areas, as well as stormwater runoff.

Site 300. There are no perennial streams at or near Site 300. The canyons that dissect the hills and ridges at Site 300 drain into intermittent streams. The majority of these onsite streams drain to the south into Corral Hollow Creek, also intermittent, which flows east along the southern boundary of Site 300 in the San Joaquin Valley. In addition to these streams, 24 springs and 2 vernal pools exist onsite. Some surface water discharge occurs from cooling towers and other process runoff areas.

A tapline from the Hetch-Hetchy Aqueduct has been constructed with a capacity of 1.9 MLD (0.502 MGD) or 693 MLY (183 MGY). However, Site 300 has not been connected to the service as of yet. Site 300 is planning to use a new water supply from the San Francisco Water Department via the Aqueduct and the Coast Ridge Tunnel (LLNL 1991b:6).

At Site 300, stormwater, cooling tower water, and groundwater that has been treated to remove contaminants are discharged to onsite or adjacent drainages in accordance with NPDES permit conditions. Approximately 4.8 MLY (1.3 MGY) of wastewater is discharged to the wastewater sewage pond. The maximum capacity of the sanitary wastewater sewage pond in the General Services Area is 12 MLY (3.2 MGY).

Based on the flow and stream channel widths, 100-year flood events would be contained within the channels except for portions of Greenville Road (LL DOE 1992c:6-9). There is no information available for delineating the 500-year floodplain at Site 300. The lined drainage retention basin at Site 300 mitigates effects from significant flooding.

Surface Water Quality

Livermore Site. Offsite surface water bodies in the vicinity of the Livermore Site are routinely monitored for radioactive parameters. In addition, stormwater runoff at the Livermore Site is routinely monitored for radioactive and nonradioactive parameters. Approximately 25 percent of the stormwater runoff generated within the site drains into the lined Central Drainage Retention Basin, and the remainder drains either directly, or via a system of storm sewers and ditches, into Arroyo Seco or Arroyo Las Positas. Table 4.7.2.4-1 summarizes the monitoring results at the Livermore Site for 1993. Maximum concentrations of gross beta were above their comparison criteria at least once in 1993. There was one instance of noncompliance with wastewater permit limits in 1994: a discharge of methylene chloride. This event was reported to the city of Livermore Water Reclamation Plant. Table 4.7.2.4-2 summarizes the surface water monitoring results from the Arroyo Seco at the Livermore Site.

Table 4.7.2.4-1.-- Stormwater Quality Monitoring at the Livermore Site, 1993

Site 300. At Site 300, surface water samples analyzed in 1994 for gross beta and tritium showed concentrations below maximum contaminant levels for drinking water, except for gross alpha radiation for one sampling event. No concentrations were above comparison criteria in 1993.

Surface Water Rights and Permits. LLNL holds several permits pertaining to local, state, and Federal regulations: NPDES permits; Waste Discharge Requirements permits for any discharge of wastes that could adversely affect the beneficial uses of water; a city of Livermore Water Reclamation Plant permit for wastewater discharges to the city sanitary sewer system; and California Department of Fish and Game permits for streambed alteration for any work that may disturb or impact rivers, streams, or lakes.

Groundwater

Livermore Site. Groundwater at the Livermore Site occurs in an upper unconfined zone overlying a series of semiconfined aquifers. The two geologic units containing the most important aquifers are the surface valley-fill deposits (shallow alluvial aquifer) and the Livermore Formation (semi-confined aquifer).

Table 4.7.2.4-2.-- Maximum Concentrations of Constituents in Surface Water of the Arroyo Seco at the Livermore Site, 1993

The Livermore Site is located within the Spring subbasin of the Livermore Valley groundwater basin. The aquifers are locally recharged by the stream runoff from precipitation and controlled releases from the South Bay Aqueduct, direct rainfall, irrigation, and treated groundwater infiltration. In addition, stream channels and ditches, and gravel pits west of the city of Livermore also recharge the shallow alluvial aquifer. Groundwater is also naturally discharged from the basin at Arroyo de la Laguna located 18 km (11 mi) southwest of the Livermore Site (LL DOE 1992c:4-151). Depth to the shallow alluvial aquifer beneath the Livermore Site ranges from approximately 9 to 34 m (30 to 110 ft). Groundwater generally flows westward throughout much of the site and southwest in the southeast area of the Livermore Site.

Site 300. At Site 300, there are two regional aquifers or major waterbearing zones: an aquifer in the sandstones and conglomerates of the Neroly Formation and a deep confined aquifer also located in the Neroly Formation. The deep confined aquifer (122 to 152 m deep [400 to 499 ft]), beneath the southern part of the site within the Neroly Formation, provides the water supply for Site 300. In addition, there are a number of local perched groundwater zones. These are not significant aquifers, because water quality is poor and yields are low. Groundwater flow in the deep confined aquifer is controlled by the sandstone beds (LLNL 1995n:E.2.4-27). North of the Patterson Anticline, which is roughly in the center of Site 300, (figure 4.7.2.4-2) water moves to the northeast, and south of the Anticline it moves to the southeast (LLNL 1994a:8-5). Runoff that has concentrated in Elk Ravine and Corral Hollow Creek recharges local bedrock aquifers. No aquifers in the Site 300 area are considered sole source aquifers under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).

Groundwater Quality

Livermore Site . Groundwater in the vicinity of the Livermore Site is generally suitable as a domestic, municipal, agricultural, and industrial supply, with the exception of groundwater less than 91 m (300 ft) deep (LL DOE 1992c:4-164). A network of groundwater monitoring and extraction wells at the Livermore Site is routinely monitored for radioactive and nonradioactive parameters. Maximum concentrations of gross alpha, nitrate/nitrite, trichloroethylene, and tritium were above their water quality criteria/standard in 1993. The maximum concentrations for tritium are found in one localized well within the Livermore Site boundary (LLNL 1994a:7-14), and pose no threat to water supplies.

VOCs have been detected in the onsite groundwater and in the area around the Livermore Site. All site practices known to contribute VOCs to groundwater have been discontinued. Investigations, however, have determined that VOC-contaminated water is present under 85 percent of the Livermore Site. The contaminant plumes have migrated off site in two areas. One plume containing mainly tetrachloro-ethylene extends from the southwest corner of the Livermore Site about 762 m (2,500 ft) west of Vasco Road under private property. It is migrating to the northwest at a rate of about 21 m (68.9 ft) per year. Three municipal supply wells are situated within about 4.4 km (2.4 mi) of this plume. The other plume, which contains primarily trichloroethylene, extends about 244 m (800 ft) south onto DOE property administered by Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore. LLNL is working with EPA and the State of California to identify appropriate remedial measures.

Approximately 150 million L (34.3 million gal) of groundwater in the southwest corner of the facility have been treated to remove VOCs. The treated water is discharged either to a recharge basin south of the site or to stream channels in accordance with NPDES permit limitations.

Site 300. At Site 300, groundwater is sampled quarterly from inactive and active water supply wells and monitoring wells. Samples are analyzed for radioactive and nonradioactive parameters (table 4.7.2.4-3). Maximum concentrations of arsenic, gross alpha, nitrate/nitrite, trichloroethylene, tritium, and uranium were above their water quality criteria/standard at least once in 1993 (LLNL 1994a: 7-17-7-18). Currently, LLNL is investigating and identifying characteristics of the groundwater contamination at Site 300. Several plumes of VOCs and tritium have been identified in shallow and deeper bedrock aquifers in this and adjacent offsite areas (LLNL 1994a:7-16-7-17). LLNL is working with the EPA and California to remediate these plumes.

Groundwater Availability and Use

Livermore Site . The Livermore Site relies on imported surface water for its municipal, commercial, residential, and agricultural uses, supplemented only by a relatively small amount of treated groundwater used for irrigation and cooling tower makeup. The water from the supply wells is blended with imported surface water before distribution to the public.

Site 300 . At Site 300, approximately 90 MLY (23.8 MGY) of water are extracted from two groundwater supply wells located in the southeast portion of the site. Other water supply wells located near Site 300 are used for recreation, stock watering, and potable purposes.

Groundwater Rights and Permits. Groundwater rights in the State of California are traditionally associated with Correlative Rights, which are derived from the concept that water users will share the resource during droughts, based on the relative areal extent of the land owned by the competing landowners. If no competition for water exists, then landowners can withdraw groundwater to the extent that they exercise their rights reasonably in relation to the similar rights of others. Because the majority of the water supply at Site 300 is from onsite wells, the present water restriction is the capacity and recharge of the wells.

Table 4.7.2.4-3.-- Groundwater Quality Monitoring at Site 300, 1993

4.7.2.5 Geology and Soils

Geology

Livermore Site. The Livermore Site is located within the California Coast Ranges, an area of north-northwest trending ranges and valleys. Livermore Valley, an exception to this trend, forms an east-west structural basin defined by branches of the San Andreas fault system. The Livermore Site occupies a smooth land surface that slopes gently to the northwest.

The Livermore Site is underlain by late Tertiary and Quaternary rocks that lie on basement rocks of the Franciscan assemblage, which consist of severely deformed sandstone, shale, and chert. In the Livermore area, this unit is mainly sandstone. The Livermore Valley topographic and structural basin was formed in Pliocene time by movements along faults to the east and west. The basin is filled with 1,219 m (4,000 ft) of Pliocene to Holocene alluvial gravels, sands, and lacustrine clays of the Livermore Formation. Late Quaternary alluvial deposits immediately underlie the Livermore Site.

The historically active, northwest-trending Calaveras fault zone, the easternmost branch of the San Andreas fault system in the San Francisco Bay area, traverses the western margin of Livermore Valley. The Concord-Green Valley fault and parallel trending Greenville fault zone define the eastern boundary of Livermore Valley. In addition, two other capable faults, the Las Positas and Verona faults, as well as several inactive faults, cut the southern part of Livermore Valley. The Livermore Site lies in an area of historically inactive faulting, 1.6 km (1.0 mi) north of the Las Positas fault zone and less than 3.2 km (2.0 mi) west of the Greenville fault zone (figure 4.7.2.5-1).

The Livermore Site lies within seismic Zone 4 (figure A.1-1). The Calaveras fault has had several earthquakes of Richter magnitude 5.0 or greater in the last 150 years. A maximum probable earthquake greater than magnitude 7.0 is possible. In 1980, an earthquake sequence on the Greenville fault produced two earthquakes of magnitude 5.5 and 5.6. There are also surface indications of other recent seismic events, and the maximum credible earthquake estimated for this fault zone is magnitude 6.6 0.2. Although the Las Positas fault zone has no recorded historical movement, a portion of the Las Positas fault from northeast of Arroyo Mocho to a point 229 m (751 ft) east of Greenville Road lies in a special studies zone under the Alquist-Priolo Act. This act requires that active fault location studies be performed before building permits can be issued for most classes of construction (LLNL 1984a:49). The maximum credible earthquake for this fault zone is magnitude 6.0 0.5 (modified Mercalli intensity VI or greater) (LLNL 1984a:52). The potentials for surface faulting, damage from liquefaction, and slope instability at the Livermore Site are all low (LL DOE 1992c:4-84,4-86). The potential for volcanic activity is low as well (DOE 1995cc:4-66).

Site 300. Site 300 is located at the eastern margin of the California Coast Ranges, 16 km (10 mi) east of Livermore Valley. The site lies in an area of northwest-trending steep hills and ridges separated by ravines and is underlain by Eocene to Pliocene sedimentary rocks that rest on a basement of the Cretaceous Great Valley Sequence. Late Miocene to Pliocene interbedded sandstones, siltstones, and claystones are exposed in much of the site. Cretaceous, Eocene, and Early Miocene rocks are also present along the northern and southern borders of the site. These rocks are locally overlain by Quaternary alluvial and terrace deposits and Holocene colluvium, alluvium, and valley fill deposits.

Site 300 lies within seismic Zone 4 (appendix figure A.1-1). Two major faults cut Site 300. The Carnegie and Corral Hollow faults cross the southern boundary of the site; Holocene movement has occurred along these faults (LLNL 1991d:1). The combined Corral Hollow-Carnegie fault zone may be capable of generating an earthquake of Richter magnitude 6.5 to 7.1. The inactive northwest-trending Elk Ravine fault cuts across the northeast section of the site. Site 300 facilities are not within a special studies zone. The principal seismic hazard would be the ground shaking associated with movement along either the Corral Hollow-Carnegie fault or Greenville fault, 8 km (5 mi) to the west of Site 300 (LLNL 1983a:49-52). Surface faulting at Site 300 in areas adjacent to the active Carnegie fault is possible, while the potential for liquefaction at Site 300 is low. The potential for seismically induced landslides at Site 300 still exists (LL DOE 1992c:4-87,4-89).

Soils

Livermore Site. The Livermore Site is located on soils originally classified as the Rincon-San Ysidro association. These soils are nearly level, loamy textured, shallow to very deep soils on older fans and floodplains. The hazard of erosion is slight to moderate. Several of these soils, including the Rincon, San Ysidro, and Zamora Series soils, have moderate to high shrink-swell potential (LL USDA 1966a:17). Recently, the entire area under the Livermore Site has been redesignated as urban and built-up land. There are no prime or unique farmland soils located at the Livermore Site.

Site 300. Site 300 soils in Alameda County belong to the Altamont-Diablo association. Soils in San Joaquin County have different designations than Alameda County soils, but the properties of these soils are identical. The water erosion hazard of these soils is slight to severe; the wind erosion hazard is slight. Many soils have a high shrink-swell potential. There is no prime or unique farmland on Site 300.

4.7.2.6 Biotic Resources

The following section describes biotic resources at the Livermore Site and Site 300 including terrestrial resources, wetlands, aquatic resources, and threatened and endangered species. A list of the threatened and endangered species that may be found on or in the vicinity of the Livermore Site and Site 300 is presented in appendix C.

Terrestrial Resources. The Livermore Site and Site 300 are located in the California Chaparral Province. The U.S. Forest Service has classified the general vegetation type of the region as annual grasslands (USDA 1977a).

Livermore Site. The Livermore Site includes developed areas surrounded by security zones of mostly grassland. Developed land area includes approximately 78 percent of the site. The undeveloped land in the security zones is grassland dominated by nonnative grasses such as ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus ) and slender oat (Avena barbata ). Arroyo Seco, a stream bed which runs across the southwestern corner of the site, is steep-sided and forms a relatively undisturbed habitat. Both native trees (such as red willow [Salix spp. ] and California walnut [Juglans hindsii ]) and introduced species (such as black locust [Robinia pseudo-acacia ] and almond [Prunus amygdalus ]) are present (LL DOE 1992c:4-91).

Five species of amphibians, 2 species of reptiles, 31 species of birds, and 10 species of mammals have been reported at the Livermore Site (LL DOE 1992d:F-33,F-36,F-39). Wildlife at the site includes species that are found in the grassland habitat of the security zones and those that live in the developed areas or along the arroyos. Species found in the security zones include the western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis ), western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta ), black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus ), and California ground squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi ). Nesting birds within the laboratory complex include the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos ), American robin (Turdus migratorius ), Anna's hummingbird (Calypte anna ), white-throated swift (Aeronautes saxatalis ), California quail (Callipepla californica ), and house sparrow (Passer domesticus ). Bird species observed along Arroyo Seco include the mourning dove (Zenaida macroura ), acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus ), sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus ), and turkey vulture (Cathartes aura ) (LL DOE 1992c:4-95). Game animals include the California quail and desert cottontail (Sylvilagus auduboni ). Raptors present on site include the red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis ), Cooper's hawk (Accipiter cooperii ), and golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos ), while carnivores present include the coyote (Canus latrans ) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) . Migrating birds present on site, as well as their nests and eggs, are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Eagles are similarly protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

Site 300. Five plant communities are found on Site 300 (figure 4.7.2.6-1). In addition, approximately 5 percent of the site has been disturbed. Introduced grassland is the largest community, covering 81 percent of the site. Native grassland, which covers 10 percent of the site, is the second most abundant community type. Coastal sage scrub and oak woodland plant communities occupy about 2 percent of the Site 300 area. Northern riparian woodland is considered rare on Site 300. Grazing has not been permitted on the site since 1953; thus, the area has more native grasses and herbs than neighboring property. Controlled burning of about 810 ha (2,000 acres) each year is conducted as a means of wildfire control and to aid in maintaining native grass communities. A total of 342 species of plants has been recorded on Site 300 (LL DOE 1992c:4-92; LL DOE 1992d:F-4).

Studies of Site 300 have identified 21 species of amphibians and reptiles, 79 species of birds, and 27 species of mammals (appendix J). Because of the abundance of grassland communities, species favoring this habitat type are most abundant on the site. Common animals found at Site 300 include the gopher snake (Pituophis melanoleucus ), western meadowlark, savannah sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis ), California ground squirrel, and deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus ). In addition, springs and the surrounding vegetation provide important habitat for a number of song birds and game animals (LL DOE 1992c:4-96,4-97). Game animals at Site 300 include the mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus ), desert cottontail, and California quail. Hunting is not permitted onsite (LLNL 1992a:3). Additional important species found at Site 300 include raptors, such as the great-horned owl (Bubo virginianus ) and northern harrier (Circus cyaneus ), and carnivores, such as the coyote and bobcat (Lynx rufus ). As is the case for the Livermore Site, migratory birds and eagles are protected by Federal legislation.

Wetlands

Livermore Site. Wetlands at the Livermore Site are limited to several small areas along Arroyo Las Positas, located at and downstream from culverts that channel runoff from surrounding areas. Two areas, totaling 0.12 ha (0.3 acres), are dominated by saltgrass (Distichlis spicata ). A species of sedge (Carex spp. ) is also common. One saltgrass wetland has both standing and flowing water and areas of very wet soil. The other saltgrass wetland is drier, with sandy soil. A third, smaller wetland (0.04 ha [0.1 acres]) is located in a culvert. Cattail (Typha spp. ) is the dominant plant in this wetland with other species such as sedge and saltgrass also commonly observed. Both standing and flowing water have been observed in this area, and the soil is sandy (LL DOE 1992d:G-16).

Site 300. Wetlands at Site 300 were delineated according to methods contained in the Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands (January 10, 1989). Site 300 contains 2.7 ha (6.7 acres) of wetlands. The wetland areas are small and scattered on the site in approximately 16 locations. Many of the wetlands are associated with natural springs, although one is associated with a vernal pool, and several have been artificially created from Site 300 runoff. Many of the wetlands associated with springs are at the bottom of deep canyons. Typical wetland vegetation associated with these springs include cattail, rush (Juncus spp. ), willow, and cottonwood (Populus spp. ) (LL DOE 1992c:4-112; LL DOE 1992d:G-19,G-46-G-48).

Aquatic Resources

Livermore Site. Potential aquatic habitat on the Livermore Site consists of an intermittent drainage system, seeps, springs, ditches, and a groundwater retention basin. The intermittent drainage system comprises westward-flowing arroyos that contain water during the winter months. Arroyos on the site include Arroyo Las Positas, located along the northern edge of the Livermore Site, and Arroyo Seco, which crosses the southwest corner of the site. Because of their temporary nature, the arroyos do not support fish. The seeps, springs, and ditches also do not support fish; however, the groundwater retention basin contains a population of mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) (LLNL 1995i:3).

Site 300. Potential aquatic habitat on Site 300 consists of vernal pools, ponds, springs, and drainages. There is one perennial stream on the site. A sewage lagoon is located on the property, but it does not support any fish populations (LL DOE 1992c:4-95). Ponds located in the southeast-central portion of the site, and springs and drainages located throughout the site, do not support fish populations (LLNL 1992a:1).

Threatened and Endangered Species

Livermore Site. Forty-six Federal- and state-listed threatened, endangered, and other special status species may be found on and in the vicinity of the Livermore Site (appendix table C-5). Eleven of these species have been observed on the Livermore Site, including the Federal-listed bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) . The other observed species include state special concern species. Although suitable habitat for several listed species exists onsite, potential occurrence of most of the species in appendix table C-5 is minimal due to the lack of suitable habitat and negative survey results. Site surveillance would be required to verify the occurrence of any listed species. No critical habitat for threatened and endangered species, as defined in the Endangered Species Act (50 CFR 17.11; 50 CFR 17.12), exists on the Livermore Site.

Site 300. Forty-eight Federal- and state-listed threatened, endangered, and other special status species may be found on and in the vicinity of Site 300 (appendix table C-5). Twenty-four of these species have been observed on Site 300. These species include the Federal-listed American peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum) and large-flowered fiddleneck (Amsinckia grandiflora ), and Federal-proposed endangered Alameda whipsnake (Masticophis lateralis euryxanthus) and California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytoni ). The other observed species include the state-listed Swainson's hawk and state special concern species. Potential occurrence of most of the other species listed in table C-5 is minimal due to lack of suitable habitat and negative survey results. Site surveillance would be required to verify their occurrence. No critical habitat for threatened and endangered species, as defined in the Endangered Species Act (50 CFR 17.11; 50 CFR 17.12), exists on Site 300.

4.7.2.7 Cultural and Paleontological Resources

Prehistoric Resources. The Livermore Site covers 332 ha (820 acres), 259 ha (640 acres) of which have been developed. Four cultural resources surveys have been conducted for undeveloped areas of the facility. No prehistoric resources were identified, and records searches indicated that no prehistoric resources had been previously recorded on or near the Livermore Site. Prehistoric sites identified in the vicinity of the Livermore Site and Site 300 include villages, campsites, rockshelters, and limited activity locations, including lithic scatters, hearths, and concentrations of fire-affected rocks. A cultural resources management plan is being developed to address issues of resource identification and maintenance.

A 1981 survey of Site 300 identified a quarry site, two prehistoric rockshelters, and one prehistoric rockshelter/historic graffiti site (LL DOE 1981a:2F.58). These sites were recorded but have not been evaluated to determine their eligibility for the NRHP.

Historic Resources. No historic sites have been recorded for the Livermore Site; however, buildings and facilities associated with the World War II-era Livermore Naval Air Station and themes in nuclear weapons development and other research projects may still be present. Because the Livermore Site was established in 1952, existing structures are not associated with the Manhattan Project or initial nuclear production. A formal NRHP evaluation of the buildings and facilities is currently being initiated.

The 1981 survey for parts of Site 300 resulted in 21 recorded historic sites, including historic graffiti, trash scatters, cabins, a foundation, a mine tunnel, a power/telegraph pole, and a townsite. The townsite, Carnegie, is a state-registered landmark. Most of the sites are associated with an industrial mining and manufacturing complex built in Corral Hollow Canyon between 1891 and 1918. Additional archival research is being conducted to clarify the characteristics of the Carnegie townsite. Site 300 was established in 1953; existing structures are not associated with the Manhattan Project or initial nuclear production.

Native American Resources. Native American groups known to have used Alameda and San Joaquin counties include the Costanoans (or Ohlone), Northern Yokuts, and Eastern Miwok. These groups were hunters and gatherers who relied on a variety of resources including deer, elk, antelope, fish, birds, nuts, and fruits. Individual tribes usually had a permanent village and occupied smaller campsites on a seasonal basis. The Northern Valley Yokuts and Eastern Miwok were decimated after European contact due to disease and acculturation, and no longer exist as a group. It is estimated that there are approximately 130 people of Costanoan (Ohlone) descent still living in the San Francisco Bay region.

Sacred and important Native American resources that might be found in the vicinity of the Livermore Site and Site 300 include burials, cremations, vision quest sites, and traditional use areas. Initial consultation with identified local Native American groups to determine important resources has begun.

Paleontological Resources. Most of the surficial and near-surface sediments of the Livermore Site are alluvial deposits of the Livermore Formation. They range in age from latest Pleistocene (15,000 to 20,000 years) to 100,000 years or greater and are not known to be fossiliferous. The only vertebrate fossil deposits in the vicinity of the Livermore Site are in the Quaternary deposits of the surrounding low hills of the east Livermore Valley, but the fossils are few in number and quite scattered. They have been tentatively identified as Rancholabrean and Blancan in age (Pleistocene) and consist of bone fragments of mammoth and giant ground sloth.

Geological formations with paleontological materials at Site 300 are the Franciscan Complex and the Cierbo and Neroly Formations. The Franciscan Complex gravels are known to contain Icthyosaurus fossils; however, no known localities have been recorded within Site 300. The Cierbo Formation outcrops extensively in the northwest quarter of Site 300 and contains Miocene oyster shells. Because these paleontological materials are relatively common, marine invertebrate assemblages are considered to have relatively low research potential.

More than 75 percent of Site 300 is Neroly Formation. Miocene (Caledonian age) mammal fossil deposits have been found within the Neroly Formation in the vicinity of Site 300 and Corral Hollow. Plant leaf and stem fossils have been recovered from the lower Neroly Formation. An assortment of vertebrate taxa are also represented, including camelids, mastodon, early horses, beavers, squirrels, and shrews. Fossil finds are generally widely scattered and consist of no more than several bone fragments. Numerous fossil bones and bone fragments from the Neroly Formation have been found on the south side of Corral Hollow Creek, adjacent to the facility and along a fire trail and road improvement areas within Site 300. The Neroly Formation paleontological locality within Site 300 is being assessed. The paleontological resources on Site 300 may have moderate research potential and may contribute data to aid paleoenvironmental reconstruction.

4.7.2.8 Socioeconomics

Socioeconomic characteristics addressed at LLNL include employment and regional economy, population, housing, and public finance. Employment and regional economy statistics are presented for the regional economic area that encompasses 22 counties in California around LLNL. Statistics for the remaining socioeconomic characteristics are presented for the ROI, a three-county area in which approximately 86 percent of all LLNL employees reside: Alameda County (57 percent), Contra Costa County (13 percent), and San Joaquin County (16 percent). There are no other counties where more than 3 percent of LLNL employees reside. Figure 4.7.2.8-1 presents a map of counties and selected cities composing the LLNL regional economic area and ROI. Supporting data are presented in appendix D.

Regional Economy Characteristics. Selected employment and regional economy statistics for the LLNL regional economic area are summarized in figure 4.7.2.8-2. The civilian labor force in the regional economic area grew a total of 26 percent between 1980 and 1990, an average annual growth rate of 2.6 percent. Total regional economic area employment in 1994 was 4,068,974, and the unemployment rate was 7.6 percent. In comparison, state unemployment was 8.6 percent. Total personal income in the regional economic area in 1993 was $454 billion, and per capita income was $25,179. State per capita income in 1993 was $21,894.

As shown in figure 4.7.2.8-2, the LLNL regional economic area and the State of California have similar employment patterns with the manufacturing, retail trade, and services sector providing almost the same proportion of nonfarm employment in both regions. The service sector accounts for the largest share of nonfarm private sector employment in both California (32 percent) and the region (38 percent).

Population and Housing. In 1992, population in the ROI totalled 2,652,248. The ROI population increased 26 percent between 1980 and 1992 (about 2 percent annually), a somewhat slower rate of increase than the state population growth of 31 percent (approximately 2.5 percent annually) during the same period. Total population increases within the ROI ranged from over 18 percent (about 1.5 percent annually) in Alameda County to about 45 percent (3.8 percent annual growth) in San Joaquin County during the same period.

The number of housing units in the ROI increased 18 percent during the 1980s (1.8 percent annually). Increases in the number of housing units in the ROI counties ranged from 13 percent (1.3 percent annually) in Alameda County to 25 percent (2.5 percent annually) in Contra Costa County. These growth rates compare to the 21-percent increase in housing units in California during the same period. In 1990, the regional homeowner vacancy rate averaged 1.6 percent, and the rental vacancy rate averaged 5.6 percent. These vacancy rates were comparable to the homeowner and rental vacancy rates for the entire state. Figure 4.7.2.8-3 summarizes population and housing trends for the LLNL ROI.

Public Finance. Financial characteristics of the local jurisdictions in the LLNL ROI that are most likely to be affected by the proposed action are presented in this section. The data reflect total revenues and expenditures of each jurisdiction's general fund, special revenue funds, and, as applicable, debt service, capital project, and expendable trust funds. School district boundaries may or may not coincide with county or city boundaries, but the districts are presented under the county where they primarily provide services. Major revenue and expenditure fund categories for counties, cities, and school districts are presented in appendix tables D.2.3-10 and D.2.3-11. Figure 4.7.2.8-4 summarizes 1994 local government revenues and expenditures. Fund balances, which are dollars carried over from previous years, are not included in figure 4.7.2.8-4. All jurisdictions assessed had positive fund balances.

4.7.2.9 Radiation and Hazardous Chemical Environment

The following section provides a description of the radiation and hazardous chemical environment at LLNL. Also included are descriptions of health effects studies, a brief accident history, and emergency preparedness considerations.

Radiation Environment. Major sources of background radiation exposure to individuals in the vicinity of LLNL are shown in table 4.7.2.9-1. All annual doses to individuals from background radiation are expected to remain constant over time. The total dose to the population would result only from changes in the size of the population. Background radiation doses are unrelated to LLNL operations.

Table 4.7.2.9-1.-- Sources of Radiation Exposure to Individuals in the Vicinity, Unrelated to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Operations

Releases of radionuclides to the environment from LLNL operations provide another source of radiation exposure to individuals in the vicinity of LLNL. The radionuclides and quantities released from LLNL operations in 1994 are listed in the Environmental Report 1994 (UCRL-50027-94). The doses to the public resulting from these releases are presented in table 4.7.2.9-2. These doses fall within regulatory limits (DOE Order 5400.5) and are small in comparison to background radiation. The releases listed in the 1994 report were used in the development of the reference environment's (No Action) radiological releases at LLNL in 2005.

Based on a dose-to-risk conversion factor of 500 cancer deaths per 1 million person-rem (5x10-4 fatal cancers per person-rem) to the public (appendix E), the fatal cancer risk to the maximally exposed member of the public due to radiological releases from LLNL operations in 1994 is estimated to be 3.3x10-8 . That is, the estimated probability of this person dying of cancer from radiation exposure associated with 1 year of LLNL operations is slightly greater than 3 chances in 100 million. (Note that it takes several years from the time of exposure to radiation for cancer to manifest itself.)

Based on the same conversion factor, 3.8x10-4 , excess fatal cancers are projected in the population living within 80 km (50 mi) of LLNL from normal operation in 1994. To place this number into perspective, it can be compared with the number of fatal cancers expected in this population from all causes. The 1990 mortality rate associated with cancer for the entire U.S. population was 0.2 percent per year (Almanac 1993a:839). Based on this national rate, the number of fatal cancers from all causes expected during 1994 in the population living within 80 km (50 mi) of LLNL was 12,000. This number of expected fatal cancers is much higher than the estimated 3.8x10-4 fatal cancers that could result from LLNL operations in 1994.

Table 4.7.2.9-2.--Doses to the General Public from Normal Operation at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 1994 (Committed Effective Dose Equivalent)

Workers at LLNL receive the same dose as the general public from background radiation, but also receive an additional dose from working in the facilities.

Table 4.7.2.9-3 includes the average, maximum, and total occupational doses to LLNL workers from operations in 1994. These doses fall within radiological limits (10 CFR 835). Based on a dose-to-risk conversion factor of 400 fatal cancers per 1 million person-rem (4x10-4 fatal cancers per person-rem) among workers (appendix E), the number of excess fatal cancers to LLNL workers from operations in 1994 is estimated to be 0.0073.

A more detailed presentation of the radiation environment, including background exposures and radiological releases and doses, is presented in the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Environment Report-1994 (UCRL-50027-94). The concentrations of radioactivity in various environmental media (e.g., air and water) and in animal tissue in the site region (onsite and offsite) are also presented in the same reference.

Table 4.7.2.9-3.-- Doses to the Onsite Worker from Normal Operation at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 1994

Chemical Environment. The background chemical environment important to human health consists of the atmosphere, which may contain hazardous chemicals that can be inhaled; drinking water, which may contain hazardous chemicals that can be ingested; and other environmental media with which people may come in contact (e.g., soil through direct contact or via the food pathway). The baseline data for assessing potential health impacts from the chemical environment are those presented in sections 4.7.2.3 and 4.7.2.4.

Adverse health impacts to the public can be minimized through administrative and design controls to decrease hazardous chemical releases to the environment and to achieve compliance with permit requirements. The effectiveness of these controls is verified through the use of monitoring information and inspection of mitigation measures. Health impacts to the public may occur during normal operation at LLNL via inhalation of air containing hazardous chemicals released to the atmosphere by LLNL operations. Risks to public health from ingestion of contaminated drinking water or direct exposure are also potential pathways.

Baseline air emission concentrations for hazardous air pollutants and their applicable standards are presented in section 4.7.2.3. These concentrations are estimates of the highest existing offsite concentrations and represent the highest concentrations to which members of the public could be exposed. These concentrations are compared with applicable guidelines and regulations. Information about estimating health impacts from hazardous chemicals is presented in appendix E.

Exposure pathways to LLNL workers during normal operation may include inhaling the workplace atmosphere, drinking LLNL potable water, and possible other contact with hazardous materials associated with work assignments. The potential for health impacts varies from facility to facility and from worker to worker, and available information is not sufficient to allow a meaningful estimation and summation of these impacts. However, workers are protected from hazards specific to the workplace through appropriate training, protective equipment, monitoring, and management controls. LLNL workers are also protected by adherence to OSHA and EPA occupational standards that limit atmospheric and drinking water concentrations of potentially hazardous chemicals. Appropriate monitoring, which reflects the frequency and amounts of chemicals utilized in the operation processes, ensures that these standards are not exceeded. Additionally, DOE requirements ensure that conditions in the workplace are as free as possible from recognized hazards that cause or are likely to cause illness or physical harm. Therefore, worker health conditions at LLNL are expected to be substantially better than required by standards.

Health Effects Studies. A study involving two groups of children and young adults under the age of 25 who were born in Livermore between 1960 and 1990 and lived in Livermore between 1960 and 1991 found no increased risk of leukemia or non-Hodgkins lymphoma. The study found a 2.4-fold increase in the risk of malignant melanoma in the children and young adults who lived in Livermore between 1960 and 1991 and a 6.4-fold increased risk of malignant melanoma for children born in Livermore between 1960 and 1991. No increased risk of any other type of cancer was found.

A joint study conducted by the California Department of Public Health and LLNL reported 19 cases of malignant melanoma between 1972 and 1977 among LLNL employees (Lancet 1981a: 712-716). No other cancers were increased among LLNL employees from 1969 to 1980 (WJM 1985a:214-218).

Hiatt and Fireman investigated the hypothesis that the increased incidence of malignant melanoma was due to a difference in medical care received by LLNL employees compared to non-LLNL employees of the same geographic area belonging to the same prepaid health plan (LLNL 1984c). The authors concluded that the sustained increase in melanoma incidence at LLNL is associated with an increased likelihood of being biopsied for pigmented skin lesions because the physicians caring for LLNL employees may be more aware of the potential malignancy of pigmented lesions than those caring for non-LLNL employees.

The most recent case-control study of malignant melanoma concluded that there was no association between occupational factors and the increased melanoma diagnosis among LLNL employees (LLNL 1994e). No clear explanation for the increased melanoma among LLNL workers has been provided. Increased awareness and enhanced surveillance are currently suspected. For a more detailed description of the studies and the findings, refer to appendix section E.4.7.

Accident History. Prior to 1960, there were no accidents at LLNL that had offsite impacts. Since 1960, there have been a number of accidents that have resulted in only negligible exposures to the public.

Emergency Preparedness. Each DOE site has established an emergency management program that would be activated in the event of an accident. This program has been developed and maintained to ensure adequate response for most accident conditions and to provide response efforts for accidents not specifically considered. The emergency management program incorporates activities associated with emergency planning, preparedness, and response. The LLNL Emergency Preparedness Plan is designed to minimize or mitigate the impact of any emergency upon the health and safety of employees and the public.

4.7.2.10 Waste Management

This section outlines the major environmental regulatory structure and waste management activities for the Livermore Site and Site 300. A more detailed discussion of the ongoing Livermore Site and Site 300 waste management operations and the regulatory setting is provided in appendix section H.2.6.

DOE is working with Federal and state regulatory authorities to address compliance and cleanup obligations arising from its past operation at the Livermore Site and Site 300, and is engaged in several activities to bring its operations into full regulatory compliance. These activities are set forth in negotiated agreements that contain schedules for compliance with applicable requirements and financial penalties for nonachievement of agreed-upon milestones. These agreements have been reviewed to assure the proposed actions are allowable under the terms of these agreements.

EPA included the Livermore Site on the NPL on July 21, 1987, because of groundwater contamination primarily by solvents containing VOC and fuel hydrocarbons. DOE, EPA, and the State of California entered into a Federal Facility Agreement to serve as the interagency agreement required under CERCLA and Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA), Section 120. This Federal Facility Agreement applies to the Livermore Site only and establishes a procedural framework and schedule for conducting source investigations, continued sampling, monitoring, and remediation of groundwater at the site. The Federal Facility Agreement enhances interagency coordination and cooperation, minimizes duplication of analysis and documentation, expedites remedial actions with a minimum of administrative delays, and establishes a basis for a determination that DOE has completed the CERCLA, RCRA, and state requirements.

Site 300 was placed on the NPL in 1990 because VOCs were discovered in the regional aquifer underlying the site and because of the proximity of the contamination to private drinking water supplies. The EPA and Site 300 authorities agreed to combine RCRA and CERCLA restoration requirements under a single Federal Facility Agreement for Site 300. A Federal Facility Agreement covering cleanup activities at Site 300 was executed on June 29, 1992. This agreement addresses the presence of trichloroethylene (TCE) in soil, rock, and groundwater; HE compounds in the HE Process Area; and tritium in the Pit 7 complex and in the Building 850 Area.

Through its research activities at the Livermore Site and Site 300, LLNL manages five broad waste categories: TRU, low-level, mixed, hazardous, and nonhazardous wastes, some of which are classified. Because there is no TRU waste associated with any of the proposed activities at LLNL, there is no discussion in this PEIS of TRU waste generation and management at LLNL. A discussion of the waste management activities associated with each of these waste categories follows.

Low-Level Waste. In 1994, the Livermore Site generated approximately 181 m³ (47,800 gal) of liquid and 307 m³ 3 ) of solid LLW (LLNL 1995i:1). Solid LLW at the Livermore Site consists of gloves, absorbent paper, plastics, glass, and other solid materials contaminated with low-level radioactive materials. Wastewater from retention tank systems that exceeds site radiological discharge limits or any special limits established for that tank, and cannot be treated for discharge or released to the sanitary sewer, is treated as LLW. Smaller quantities of contaminated liquids may be accumulated in various sizes and types of containers. Nonreleasable wastewater in generator retention tank systems is pumped into portable tanks for treatment at the Wastewater Treatment Tank Farm at the Building 514 Facility. At the Area 514 Waste Treatment Facility, containerized and bulk radioactive liquid wastes are transferred into one of the six 7,003 L (1,850 gal) treatment tanks to be treated chemically. These tanks are used to treat both radioactive and mixed waste liquids. Following treatment, a sample is gathered by hazardous waste management personnel and analyzed by a certified analytical laboratory for pH, metals, gross alpha and beta activity, tritium, and other possible contaminants, as necessary (depending on the waste's description). If the review indicates that the contents of a treatment tank are below established sewer discharge limits, the liquid is released to the sanitary sewer.

The precipitate wastes from tank farm chemical treatments are filtered in the Dorr-Oliver unit by creating a filter cake (coating a rotating drum with a slurry of diatomaceous earth), depositing the precipitate on the absorbent filter cake, capturing the filtrate in a tank, removing and packaging the contaminated cake, and then either discharging the liquid filtrate to the sanitary sewer or retreating it. The filter cake is then stabilized. Liquid and solid radioactive wastes are processed or stored at Building 514 and 612 complexes.

In 1994, Site 300 generated approximately 463 m³ (606 yd³ ) of solid LLW (LLNL 1995i:1). Site 300 generates solid LLW from the detonation of test assemblies on firing tables. The debris from the detonation is contaminated with depleted uranium and, in some instances, thorium or tritium. LLW is packaged in approved waste containers and transported for staging on site, pending shipment to the Livermore Site or shipment directly to NTS for disposal.

Mixed Low-Level Waste. In 1994, the Livermore Site generated approximately 51 m³ (13,470 gal) of liquid and 20 m³ (26 yd³ ) of solid mixed LLW (LLNL 1995i:1). Some of the generated liquid mixed LLW is treated at the Area 514 Wastewater Treatment Tank Farm prior to discharge to the sanitary sewer so that hazardous constituents and radionuclides are removed, and this wastewater can be discharged within the allowable limits of the sewer discharge permit. The residual solids from this treatment process contain such hazardous constituents as coolants and solvents used in machining operations, toxic metals, decontamination solutions, and dyes. Mixed LLW is treated or stored at the Area 514 Wastewater Treatment Tank Farm and Building 612 complexes located in the southeast corner of the Livermore Site. Mixed wastes generated by Site 300 are currently stored and will continue to be stored at the Livermore Site until DOE-approved disposal options are available. These options are outlined in the LLNL Site Treatment Plan. In 1994, Site 300 generated approximately 8 m3 (2,100 gal) of liquid and 0.37 m3 (0.48 yd3 ) of solid mixed LLW.

Hazardous Waste. The Livermore Site and Site 300 presently operate five hazardous waste management facilities: Area 514, Area 612, Building 693, and Building 233 container storage unit are at the Livermore Site. Building 883 is at Site 300. The Area 514 and Area 612 facilities contain treatment and storage units for hazardous and mixed wastes. The Building 693 facility is currently a container storage unit for hazardous waste and limited flammable mixed waste, pending analysis. The Building 233 container storage unit is currently used to store mixed, low-level, and TRU waste. Building 883 is used for hazardous wastes only.

In 1994, approximately 342 m³ (90,350 gallons) of liquid and 237 m³ (310 yd3 ) of solid hazardous wastes were generated at the Livermore Site (LLNL 1995i:1). Waste Management Facility operations at the Livermore Site are subject to Federal, state, regional, and local environmental requirements. Hazardous waste operations at the Livermore Site include the safe and proper handling, treatment, packaging, storage, and shipment of all hazardous waste generated by the site. The Livermore Site hazardous waste management units operate under RCRA interim status with an approved Part A Permit that was submitted December 16, 1991. A revised Part A Permit has been submitted to the state, while the Part B application submitted on January 17, 1992, undergoes processing by the State of California. Hazardous wastes are generated by the numerous R&D activities conducted throughout the facilities. Storage areas for nonradioactive and radioactive (or mixed) wastes are located at the Area 612 Facility yard. Wastes that contain PCBs and other wastes regulated by the TSCA are stored in Building 625. The nonradiological hazardous waste consists of ignitable, reactive, corrosive, toxic, and biohazardous waste (such as very dilute carcinogens and small animal carcasses) generated in biomedical and environmental research. Liquid hazardous waste contained in carboys may be pumped into drums that are stored, pending offsite transportation. The solid chemical wastes are packaged in drums and temporarily stored. The waste is then packaged according to DOT regulations. A commercial waste handler transports the liquid and solid hazardous waste drums to RCRA-permitted treatment, storage, and disposal facilities.

Building 693 was constructed in 1987. The California Department of Toxic Substances Control approved operation of this chemical waste storage facility in early 1991 under interim status standards. Building 693 began operation in 1992 and is used to store containerized RCRA-, TSCA-, and California-only regulated waste and limited flammable mixed waste, pending safety analysis.

Liquid waste and wastewaters are accumulated in retention tanks, carboys, or drums at the respective source locations throughout the Livermore Site. There, the materials are sampled and analyzed, and the determined waste contaminant levels are compared to the Livermore Site and city of Livermore discharge limits. If the levels of contaminants are below the regulatory limits, the material is released to the sanitary sewer. Industrial wastewater that contains constituents at concentrations greater than allowed by the city of Livermore discharge limits is managed as hazardous waste.

In 1994, Site 300 generated 111 m³ (29,320 gal) of liquid and 46 m³ (60 yd³ ) of solid hazardous wastes (LLNL 1995i:1). Hazardous waste generated at Site 300 can be broken down into three general categories: explosives, analytical chemicals, and industrial wastes. The generation of solid and liquid hazardous waste varies with the number and type of experiments being conducted at any given time at Site 300. HE wastes are treated at the Building 829 complex, an open burn facility used for thermal treatment of these wastes. This facility will be operated until a new explosives waste treatment facility is permitted and operational as stated in a 1993 compliance order between LLNL, DOE, and the State of California. Site 300 hazardous wastes are stored in Building 883, a RCRA-permitted storage facility, before transfer to the Livermore Site waste management facilities. Generally, wastes are stored up to 1 year before shipment to the Livermore Site. Hazardous wastes are shipped through licensed commercial transporters to various offsite commercial RCRA-permitted treatment, storage, and disposal facilities.

The newly redesigned Decontamination and Waste Treatment Facility will replace and upgrade current waste management facilities presently used to process, treat, and store hazardous, radioactive, and mixed wastes. The Decontamination and Waste Treatment Facility would receive Livermore Site-generated medical, hazardous, LLW, and mixed LLW for consolidation, processing, treatment, and packaging before shipment and disposal offsite at commercial RCRA-permitted facilities.

The explosives waste storage facility project will convert five existing explosives storage magazines for the storage of explosives wastes. A new prefabricated metal building, to be located in a previously paved area, will be used for storing explosives-contaminated solid wastes (including packing material, discarded paper, and plastic labware) and ash from thermal treatment processes. Each of the five earth-covered magazines will be capable of storing specified weight limits of explosives, depending on the explosives waste types present.

Nonhazardous Waste. In 1994, the Livermore Site generated approximately 6,425 t (7,082 tons) of solid nonhazardous wastes (LLNL 1995i:1). Solid, nonhazardous wastes generated consisted of paper, plastics, glass, organic, and other wastes. The Livermore Site does not have onsite solid waste disposal facilities. Solid wastes are collected in dumpsters and other similar containers in such a manner as to assure that they do not contain hazardous or radioactive wastes and are transported to the Vasco Road Landfill for disposal.

In 1994, Site 300 generated approximately 315 m³ (412 yd³ ) of solid nonhazardous wastes (LLNL 1995i:1). The sources of solid, nonhazardous waste on Site 300 include office and laboratory refuse, construction debris, and landscape clippings. Solid, nonhazardous waste generated at Site 300 is transported to the Corral Hollow Sanitary Landfill, approximately 4 km (2.49 mi) east of Site 300 on Corral Hollow Road.

Medical wastes generated at the Livermore Site consist of biohazardous waste and sharps wastes. In 1994, approximately 2 m³ (3 yd³ ) of solid medical wastes were generated. Infectious wastes from the Biomedical Sciences Division are autoclaved in Building 365 to sterilize prior to disposal as sanitary waste, while sharps (e.g., needles, blades, and glass slides) waste is sent to an offsite commercial RCRA-permitted incinerator following sterilization.

Medical wastes at Site 300 are generated at the Medical Facility, Building 877. In 1994, approximately 2 m³ (528 gal) of liquid and 2 m³ (3 yd³ ) of solid medical wastes were generated (LLNL 1995i:1). These wastes are managed in accordance with established LLNL procedures for handling medical wastes and are transported to the Livermore Site, where they are autoclaved at Building 365. The sterilized materials are then disposed of as sanitary waste.

For 1994, the Livermore Site generated approximately 456,000 m³ (120,460,000 gal) of sanitary wastewater (LLNL 1995i:2). If sanitary wastewater generated by operations exceed permissible discharge limits and is treatable using permitted Livermore Site waste treatment units, the water is processed to meet the release criteria and then monitored as it is discharged to ensure that permissible discharge limits are not exceeded. These wastes enter the city of Livermore's sewer system and are then processed at the city of Livermore Water Reclamation Plant. The treated sanitary wastewater is piped to San Francisco Bay for discharge, except for a small volume that is used for summer irrigation of the municipal golf course adjacent to the Livermore Water Reclamation Plant. Sludge from the treatment plant is disposed of in offsite landfills.

When wastewater is discharged to the sewer system, it combines with sewage from SNL, Livermore. To protect the Livermore Water Reclamation Plant and to minimize any cleanup that might become necessary, the Livermore Site has an onsite sewage diversion and retention system that is capable of containing approximately 775,000 L (200,000 gal) of potentially contaminated sewage until it can be analyzed and appropriate handling methods implemented. If the liquids cannot be processed for discharge, they are packaged for treatment or disposal at an offsite facility. Treatment residues, or solids generated from the treatment process, are also packaged for treatment or disposal at an offsite facility.

In 1994, Site 300 generated approximately 4,420 m³ (1,167,600 gal) of sanitary wastewater (LLNL 1995i:2). Sanitary wastewater generated within the General Services Area at Site 300 is discharged to an onsite sewer lagoon. Other more remotely located buildings on Site 300 are serviced by septic systems and leach fields. Industrial wastewaters are contained in retention tanks and analyzed, and their proper disposition determined. These wastewaters may be shipped to the Livermore Site for treatment, then discharged to the sanitary sewer system or shipped directly to an offsite treatment and disposal facility. The nonhazardous rinsewater from the HE machining, pressing, and formulation processes are disposed of by surface evaporation from two ponds.

¹ Federal standard.

² State standard.

³ No monitoring data available, baseline concentration assumed to be less than applicable standard/threshold value.

⁴ San Francisco Bay Area Air Quality Management District ambient concentration guide.

⁵ No standard. Source: 40 CFR 50; CA EPA 1993a; LLNL 1995i:1.

⁶ For comparison only.

⁷ Storm effluent sampling location (SW corner of the site).

⁸ Storm effluent sampling location (NW corner of the site).

⁹ Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 141).

¹⁰ Proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulations; Radionuclides (56 FR 33050).

¹¹ DOE's Derived Concentration Guides for water (DOE Order 5400.5). Values are based on a committed effective dose equivalent of 100 mrem per year; however, because the drinking water maximum contaminant level is absed on 4 mrem per year, the number listed is 4 percent of the Derived Concentration Guides.

¹² National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 143).

¹³ No range could be provided; based on one sampling event. NA - not applicable. Source: LLNL 1994a.

¹⁴ For comparison only.

¹⁵ Stormwater runoff sampling location along the Arroyo Seco.

¹⁶ National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 141).

¹⁷ Proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulations; Radionuclides (56 FR 33050).

¹⁸ National Secondary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 143). NA - not applicable.b Source: LLNL 1994a.

¹⁹ For comparison only.

²⁰ Onsite monitoring well near Pit 1.

²¹ Onsite monitoring well near Pit 7.

²² Onsite monitoring well near HE Processing Area.

²³ National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR 141), maximum contaminant level.

²⁴ Proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulations; Radionuclides (56 FR 33050).

²⁵ DOE Derived Concentration Guide for drinking water (DOE Order 5400.5). Values are based on a committed effective dose of 100 mrem per year; however, because the drinking water maximum contaminant level is based on 4 mrem per year, the number listed is 4 percent of the Derived Concentration Guide. NA - not applicable; mg/L - milligrams per liter; pCi/L - picocuries per liter. Well locations are shown in figure 4.7.2.4-1. Source: LLNL 1994a.

²⁶ Source: LLNL 1994a. Value for radon is an average for the United States.

²⁷ NCRP 1987a.

²⁸ The standards for individuals are given in DOE Order 5400.5. As discussed in that order, the 10 mrem/yr limit from airborne emissions is required by the CAA, the 4 mrem/yr limit is required by the SDWA, and the total dose of 100 mrem/yr is the limit from all pathways combined. The 100 person-rem value for the population is given in proposed 10 CFR 834 (58 FR 16268).

²⁹ In 1994, this population was approximately 6 million.

³⁰ Obtained by dividing the population dose by the number of people living within 80 km (50 mi) of the site. Source: LLNL 1994a.

³¹ 10 CFR 835. DOE's goal is to maintain radiological exposure as low as reasonably achievable.

³² Source: LLNL 1994a. The number of badged workers in 1994 was approximately 8,700.