Appendix_H_-_Storm_Water_Mgmt_Plan.pdf

CDRL CEV-15G

STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

Thule Air Base, Greenland

Final, FY-15

OPR: GREENLAND CONTRACTORS

Chief of Environmental Engineering DSN 629-3840 ext. 2698 Contract No. FA2523-05-C-9001 Supersedes CDRL CEV-15-G, FY-14 edition

CDRL CEV-15G Storm Water Management Plan

Thule Air Base, Greenland 3 FY-15

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 LETTER OF INSTRUCTION

1.1 Security and Administrative Instructions

2.0 REGULATORY BACKGROUND

2.1 Purpose

2.2 Scope

2.3 Regulatory Overview

3.0 ORGANIZATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Installation Commander, 821 ABG/CC

3.2 Danish Liaison Officer, DLO

3.3 Occupational Safety & Health, GC/OSH

3.4 GC Environmental Engineering, GC/EE

3.5 GC Engineering, GC/CE

3.6 GC Operations/Pavements & Grounds (P&G), GC/LGTT

3.7 GC Utilities and Facilities Maintenance, GC/OMUFM

4.0 STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM

4.1 What is the Storm Water System

4.2 What are Culverts

4.3 How to open a culvert for drainage

5.0 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

5.1 Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Management

5.2 Aircraft/runway deicing

5.3 Aircraft/vehicle fueling operation

5.4 Aircraft/vehicle maintenance & repair

5.5 Aircraft/vehicle washing

5.6 Bulk fuel storage areas

5.7 Construction activities

5.8 Corrosion control activities

5.9 Hazardous material storage areas

5.10 Outdoor material storage areas

5.11 Outdoor painting/depainting operations

5.12 Pesticide operations

5.13 Power production

Thule Air Base, Greenland 4 FY-15

5.14 Vehicle storage yards

5.15 Best management practices – Table C4.T3 from FGS

6.0 PROBLEMS DISCOVERED BY THE EVALUATION OF BEST

MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

6.1 Small, constant spill of POL, fuel and other types of liquids from engines

6.2 Small spill from hoses and connectors

6.3 Fueling of Heavy Equipment

6.4 Other risks of large spills of POL

6.5 Historical Contamination

6.6 Tank Farm Dike Water

6.7 Deicing of aircraft

6.8 Oil/water separators

6.9 Outdoor painting and corrosion control

6.10 Hazardous Materials/Waste Storage

6.11 Construction Activities

7.0 STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

7.1 Spill of POL, Fuel, Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste

7.2 Tank Dike Water

7.3 Cross Connections

7.4 Outlets of Wastewater into the Storm Water Drainage System (SWDS)

7.5 Discharge of Storm Water into the Sanitary Wastewater System

7.6 Hazardous Materials/Waste Storage

7.7 Project Coordination

7.8 Storm water surveillance

7.9 Personnel Training

7.10 Record Keeping

APPENDIX 1: DEFINITIONS

APPENDIX 2: STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM

APPENDIX 3: DISTRIBUTION LIST

APPENDIX 4: REVIEW COMMENTS

Thule Air Base, Greenland 5 FY-15

1.0 LETTER OF INSTRUCTION

1.1 Security and Administrative Instructions

Title: The title of this document is Storm Water Management Plan. The acronym SWMP will be used throughout the document.

Classification: The document is unclassified.

Responsibilities: Greenland Contractors, Environmental Engineering (GC/EE) is the office of primary responsibility for developing and maintaining the SWMP. The instructions given in this plan are applicable to all organizations and tenant units at Thule AB. Organizations are authorized to extract and reproduce those sections of the SWMP that are essential in the accomplishment of necessary planning and in the preparation of supporting documents and reports.

Reviews/changes: The SWMP will be reviewed and updated annually IAW the CDRL and dis-tributed accordingly. A draft is submitted to 21 CES/CEIE by 1 Nov for review. Review com-ments, if any, will be provided within 60 days. Review comments received will be incorporated in the final version of the plan within 30 days; thereafter the document will be submitted to 821ABG/CC for signature. The signed plan will then be submitted as the final edition.

Furthermore, the plan is subject to change if any of the applicable laws, regulations, or require-ments are altered.

Distribution: The plan will be distributed to the organizations listed in the distribution list, APPENDIX 3.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 6 FY-15

2.0 REGULATORY BACKGROUND

2.1 Purpose

The purpose of the Storm Water Management Plan is to identify, reduce, minimize, or eliminate sources of pollution exposed to storm water runoff into North Star Bay.

The key elements of Thule Air Base’s SWMP are:

Identify the potential sources of storm water pollution and evaluate their potential impact

Manage sources of potential storm water pollution

Annual inspection and maintenance of the Storm Water Drainage System (SWDS)

Train employees on storm water pollution prevention

2.2 Scope

The provisions of the Storm Water Management Plan apply throughout Thule AB and to all personnel. Certain responsibilities are specifically assigned to selected individuals identified in the plan.

Related plans are developed to cover other functions and may need to be consulted:

Spill Prevention and Response Plan, CEV-15C

Conservation Management Plan, CEV-13

Hazardous Waste Management Plan, CEV-15B

Slug (Wastewater) Management Plan, CEV-15J

Hazardous Materials Management Program

2.3 Regulatory Overview

The United States Forces in Greenland must perform Storm Water Management according to the Final Governing Standards (C4.3.4) for environmental protection by United States Forces in Greenland (FGS-GL) 24 July 2003.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 7 FY-15

3.0 ORGANIZATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

In order to ensure storm water is handled in an environmentally correct manner, it is important personnel maintaining storm water systems are fully aware of their responsibility as outlined in the following:

3.1 Installation Commander, 821 ABG/CC

The Installation Commander or designated representative has the overall responsibility for the management of Storm Water on Thule AB. The Installation Commander will act as chairman for the base Environmental Protection Committee (EPC). The EPC is responsible for reviewing the SWMP prior to finalization of the yearly review and/or any other updates of the plan prior to approval by the Installation Commander.

The Installation Commander, or designated representative, serves as the On-Scene Commander in all incidents that may require emergency response action.

3.2 Danish Liaison Officer, DLO

The Danish Liaison Officer serves as the official representative of Denmark and the Greenland Home Rule concerning environmental issues at Thule AB.

3.3 Occupational Safety & Health, GC/OSH

The responsibility of GC/SE includes:

Safety and health inspections

3.4 GC Environmental Engineering, GC/EE

The responsibility of GC/EE includes:

Develop and implement the SWMP

Annual update of the SWMP

Compliance Assessment of activities at Thule AB

Visual inspection prior to discharge of tank dike water to waters of host nation

Recordkeeping on SWDS and tank dike water inspections

Necessary training of personnel

3.5 GC Engineering, GC/CE

The responsibility of GC/CE includes:

Ensure all projects affecting Storm Water Management are reviewed by GC/EE

Update of drawings for SWDS

3.6 GC Operations/Pavements & Grounds (P&G), GC/LGTT

The responsibility of GC/LGTT includes:

Maintenance and operation of the SWDS

Thule Air Base, Greenland 8 FY-15

3.7 GC Utilities and Facilities Maintenance, GC/OMUFM

The responsibility of GC/OMUFM includes:

Operation of fuel in a way that prevents spill

Maintenance and operation of pumps removing tank dike water

Removal of water from the containment around the fuel bulk tanks

Thule Air Base, Greenland 9 FY-15

4.0 STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM

The main purpose of the storm water drainage system at Thule AB is to ensure melt water (from the ice cap) and surface water (from melting ice and snow) passage to the fjord during spring and summer, without affecting installations at Thule AB. Serious flooding has previously oc-curred at Thule AB, washing bridges and roads away.

4.1 What is the Storm Water System

The storm water drainage system consists of an interconnected system of culverts, catch drains, naturally formed ditches and waterways. Pollution of the system is prevented by adhering to best management practices (FGS, table C4.T3). Ultimately, the storm water drainage system leads to North Star Bay or Wolstenholme Fjord, where the effluent is discharged. The storm water system has no connection to the potable water system or to the waste water system.

4.2 What are Culverts

A culvert is a device that leads drain paths under roads without disturbing the road traffic. It consists of a pipe (strong weather resistant plastic or iron pipe). The pipe can have a variable diameter depending on placing and amount of storm water expected to be handled.

4.3 How to open a culvert for drainage

Different methods can be used when opening a culvert placed at Thule Air Base. The Methods are described below:

Natural thaw is when nature is performing the task of opening the culverts for drainage. No mechanical work is performed on the culverts; the rising outdoor temperature can handle the task of opening culverts for drainage.

During spring 2008, GC started to use new equipment when opening small culverts. A special vehicle has the capacity to thaw out culverts using pressurized steam.

Some culverts (i.e. those recently established) at Thule Air Base have a heat tracing system placed in the upper part of the culverts, in order to artificially initiate a thawing of the culvert.

Depending on the placement in the base facility, the culvert can be connected directly to the existing power lines or to a mobile power generator.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 10 FY-15

5.0 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

FGS Table C4.T3 presents areas which will be taken into consideration as potential sources for contaminations of storm water. In paragraph 5.15 Best Management Practices – Table C4.T3 is presented as is, directly from the FGS.

Based on best management practices, an evaluation of the present situation at Thule AB has been conducted. The paragraph 5.1 to 5.14 presents the results of this evaluation.

5.1 Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Management

Aircraft Ground Support Equipment is repaired by specially trained persons in Bldgs. 623, 624 and 1408. Any contents from the drip cans will be disposed of in drums located at HWAPs.

5.2 Aircraft/runway deicing

From September until May/June, the wings on airplanes will be sprayed with propylene glycol to remove ice and snow and prevent new ice from forming. At the request of the flight crew this operation is performed on the wing, body and/or the tail of the aircraft. This takes place on the flight line. As no cleanup is performed and the propylene glycol will end up in the storm water system or evaporate.

At Thule AB temperatures are usually so low that removal of snow and deicing on the runway is done mechanically. Only in special cases when the temperature is around freezing will urea be used to deice the runway.

Except for a helicopter operated by Air Greenland (Hangar 4), no aircraft have permanent base at Thule AB. Some aircraft leave the same day they arrive and others stay overnight (e.g. the weekly B757 connection to Baltimore operated by AMC). Hangar 7 and hangar 8 will be used for overnight parking of aircraft. The hangars are not large enough to fit a C-17 (the tail end will be out in the open and require deicing) or larger aircraft. AMC aircraft has priority for hangar 7.

During Operation BOXTOP and Operation NORTHERN FALCON various aircrafts will operate out of Thule AB. The missions are typically ongoing 24 hours per day. Repair and maintenance work will be done in hangars.

5.3 Aircraft/vehicle fueling operation

Fueling of aircraft and vehicles takes place at two designated areas: on the parking apron infront of Bldg. #614 and # 617 and at the service station on the east side of Bldg. #630.

Both areas are constructed as secondary containment areas – making it possible to clean up the area in a safe manner if a major spillage occurs before the spill can enter the SWDS.

An old service station still exists at Bldg. 558. The fuel tanks at the decommissioned service station have been emptied.

During the summer period, many activities with heavy equipment are performed. The fueling operation will under normal circumstances be made where the activities take place – in an area without any facility to collect a spillage. Therefore, spills kits are kept in the trucks.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 11 FY-15

5.4 Aircraft/vehicle maintenance & repair

During daily operations, the only maintenance for aircraft is related to a helicopter (Bell 212) operated by Air Greenland. The maintenance is done in Bldg. 606.

In an emergency situation, it may be necessary to conduct repair of an aircraft. This will, if possible, be conducted indoors.

Two times a year during Operation BOXTOP, the Royal Canadian Air Force will be operating a 24-hour operation for approximately 3 weeks. During that period, a number of transport aircraft

– primarily C-130s – will be operating out of Thule AB. The maintenance of the aircraft will primarily take place in Bldg. 623, but some maintenance will be performed outside. Drip pans are used to catch spills, leaks and drained fluids and spill kits are located nearby in order to clean spills occurring during the outdoor maintenance.

Likewise, once every year, the Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) will execute Operation NORTHERN FALCON. During that period, RDAF typically will be operating one transport plane out of Thule AB. Drip pans are used to catch spills, leaks and drained fluids and spill kits are located nearby in order to clean spills occurring during the outdoor maintenance.

Maintenance and repair of fuels vehicles is conducted in Bldg. 563. Maintenance and repair of other vehicles is conducted in Bldg. 580. As such, maintenance doesn’t pose substantial risk for the pollution of surface water.

5.5 Aircraft/vehicle washing

Aircraft are not washed at Thule AB, except for the small helicopter operated by Air Greenland.

The helicopter is washed in HG-4 (Bldg. 606), where the water is led through an oil/water sepa-rator to the sewage system.

Vehicles are washed at the following facilities: Bldg. 580, Bldg. 605, Bldg. 622, and Bldg. 1408 plus an outdoor wash ramp near the harbor (no facility number assigned). In all facilities, the waste water is led through an oil/water separator. From there the water is discharged through the sewage system for all facilities except for the outdoor wash ramp near the harbor, where the water is discharged directly from the oil/water separator to the North Star Bay and at Bldg. 836, where the water is led through an oil/water separator to the Storm Water Drainage System.

An exception is when washing the fire trucks located at 12SWS. The Fire trucks may not leave the 12 SWS area as it shall be on standby to emergency use at 12 SWS. Therefore it is acceptable that the fire trucks permanently stationed at 12 SWS are washed at the 12 SWS facility – all other vehicles shall use one of the designated washing areas with an oil/water separator connected. The environmental impact of washing the 12 SWS fire trucks are estimated to be minimal as regular maintenance and inspection of the fire trucks will prevent unnecessary leaks from the vehicle before it is washed.

Non-emulsifying soaps are used to wash all aircraft and vehicles. The use of emulsifying soap removes the intended effect of a gravitational oil/water separator.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 12 FY-15

5.6 Bulk fuel storage areas

Fuel is stored in large quantities in three places:

The North Tank farm consisting of twelve 2,240,000-gallon tanks for JP-8 (tanks 18, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32), and one 2,310,000-gallon tank with containment (tank 34).

UEWR s Bulk Storage Tanks. Two 126,000 gallon JP-8 tanks with containment.

The South Tank farm consisting of one 218,178-gallon tank (tank 98) for marine diesel with containment.

Beside the main bulk fuel facilities, JP-8 is distributed to the many points of use in the base area in organizational tanks. To prevent spillage, many of the tanks are double-walled and others have a secondary containment. An inventory of organizational fuel tanks, spill prevention, spill response measures and procedures are included in CDRL CEV-15C Spill Prevention and Response Plan.

5.7 Construction activities

Construction activities on Thule AB can be divided into two categories – small projects that normally will be made by Greenland Contractors and large projects that normally will be made by seasonal contractors.

Greenland Contractors is characterized by being a contractor with permanent presence at Thule AB within the present BMC contract. Greenland Contractors operates shops and warehouses to store building materials and HAZMAT.

Seasonal contractors use interim locations for storage of building materials (including HAZMAT).

Typically, these locations will be the contractors shipping containers.

The handling and storage of HAZMAT and hazardous waste must be IAW the Hazardous Materials Management Program (HMMP) and CDRL CEV-15B Hazardous Waste Management Plan (HWMP). GC/EE provides instructions on the requirements to seasonal contractors and will conduct inspections IAW above plans. GC also provides basic support such as labels for Hazardous Waste containers.

Construction of sediment dams/silt fences around all construction sites will be included in all projects.

5.8 Corrosion control activities

The only aircraft permanently stationed at Thule AB is a small helicopter operated by Air Greenland. Aircraft corrosion control on is not accomplished at Thule AB.

Buildings at Thule AB are made of a sandwich panel with an outer layer of aluminum, corrosion is only a problem related to steel pipes and steel vessels. As lead-based paint is prohibited at Thule AB, no pollutants are coming from corrosion control activities.

5.9 Hazardous material storage areas

Handling and storage of hazardous materials on Thule AB are managed by the Hazardous Material Management Program. Major storage of hazardous materials is located in Bldg. 555, 580, 605, 629, 801, 1410 and 4002.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 13 FY-15

Handling and storage of hazardous waste is managed by (CDRL CEV-15B) Hazardous Waste Management Plan. Hazardous Waste Storage Areas are established in Bldg. 604 and 937.

All permanent storage of hazardous waste/materials is kept indoors or in closed freight containers.

5.10 Outdoor material storage areas

Coal is not used on Thule AB. Salt (including urea) is used in bulk quantities but is stored indoors.

The outside storage areas contain lumber, cable and steel pipes. Except for the possibility of contamination of the surface water with PCB from old cables, none of it contributes to any problems related to storm water.

PCB containing cables have been investigated in the project WWCX 71-3591 - Disposal of PCB Containing Cables, Pilot Study. The study was completed and the final report submitted 26 September 2005. Test result from shipped samples of cables showed no contamination of PCB as concentration was below 50 ppm.

5.11 Outdoor painting/depainting operations

The outdoor painting and depainting on Thule AB is restricted to:

Maintenance of flight line

Maintenance of buildings

Maintenance of Tug Boat

In all cases the handling of paint will be treated according to the Hazardous Materials Management Program and the Spill Prevention & Response Plan (CDRL CEV-15C), and paint waste will be treated according to the Hazardous Waste Management Plan (CDRL CEV-15B).

Sandblast residues and painting chemicals such as thinners and rinsates are also treated according to the Hazardous Waste Management Plan (CDRL CEV-15B).

5.11.1 Maintenance of flight line

Painting of the flight line is a primary question about renewal of the existing layer of paint. The paint is currently water based. However, organic solvents are used for cleaning the painting machines after use. The paint is applied using a spray application during the summer months.

The average monthly precipitation in the summer of 20 mm requires careful scheduling.

Precipitation will wash off wet paint and could cause a major paint spill. Weather forecasts will be used to predict a dry period where the paint can be installed safely.

5.11.2 Outdoor painting of buildings

Almost all buildings are made out of a sandwich construction, with an exterior made of aluminum sheeting. Outdoor painting is primarily done on fascia boards and bases of the buildings.

Approximately 5 buildings or dormitories will normally be painted every summer. As water based paint has shown to be incompatible with the climatic conditions, a solvent-based paint is used.

Based on the small amount of precipitation received at Thule AB, the problem related to storm water will be a major spillage. Weather forecasts will be used to predict a dry period where the paint work can be carried out safely.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 14 FY-15

5.11.3 Maintenance of tugboat

A part of Thule AB port operations include a small tugboat to assist ships during the port season.

The tugboat is placed in a stand at the beach south of the pier most of the year. The boat is painted with water-based epoxy annually before the port season. This work will be carried out in dry weather with a protective liner protecting the beach.

5.12 Pesticide operations

The professional use of pesticides is regulated by CDRL CEV-16 Pest Management Plan which prevents the use of industrial toxin. Pesticide use at Thule AB is restricted to self-help programs such as cockroach traps and does not impact the storm water system.

5.13 Power production

Five Generators at Bldg. 1391 (M-Plant) provide power for Thule AB. The generators are very old (Built in 1979 and installed in 1987) and leakage is unavoidable. The oil is collected in pits beneath the generators. However, due to cracks in the floor some of this oil is released beneath the building before it can be collected from the pits. The M-plant is raised above the ground in the typical way used at Thule to protect the permafrost from the heat of the building.

A large drip pan has been installed beneath the building to collect the oil that passes through.

However, if the drip pan holds a large volume of oil, strong winds can spread the oil on the surrounding soil where precipitation could transport it to the North Star River. Part of GCs preventive maintenance program is for oil to be collected from the drip pan regularly and stained soil collected and disposed at the land farm area (area behind HG1 and HG2).

5.14 Vehicle storage yards

The major Vehicle storage yards are situated near Bldg. 580 – Vehicle Management, near building 2403 and in the DLA yard.

The DLA yard - controlled area: Old vehicles that in many cases are worn out are stored here.

To prevent possible spillage, the vehicles will be emptied of any kind of fluid before being turned in to DLA. Certificates and checklists are kept by DLA.

Heavy equipment or vehicles used for construction are typically stored in cold hangars during the winter. These vehicles must have drip pans in order to protect the environment from leaking fluids.

Especially during the winter is it not possible to avoid affecting the storm water system from mi-nor contamination due to idling and use of heavy equipment not in storage. This contamination is considered incidental to the use of motor vehicles in arctic conditions.

Environmental Engineering will conduct routine inspections in February and in August of the Ve-hicle storage yards, including interim areas, as part of the Environmental inspection program.

The inspection program is based on an environmental risk assessment and the inspections will be documented on the Environmental Inspection Form.

The purpose of the inspection program is to continually improve the environmental management at Thule AB by identifying non-compliance and proactively address potential issues accordingly to the environmental management plans and the Final Governing Standards.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 15 FY-15

5.15 Best management practices – Table C4.T3 from FGS

Activity Best Management Practice

Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Maintenance

Perform maintenance/repair activities inside Use drip pans to capture drained fluids Cap hoses to prevent drips and spills

Aircraft/runway deicing Perform anti-icing before the storm Put critical aircraft in hangars/shelters

Aircraft/vehicle fueling operations Protect fueling areas from the rain Provide spill response equipment at fueling station

Aircraft/vehicle maintenance & repair Perform maintenance/repair activities inside Use drip pans to capture drained fluids

Aircraft/vehicle washing Capture wash water and send to wastewater treatment plant Treat wash water with oil water separator before discharge

Bulk fuel storage areas Use dry camlock connectors to reduce fuel loss Capture spills with drip pans when breaking connections Curb fuel transfer areas, treat with oil water separator

Construction activities Construct sediment dams/silt fences around construction sites

Corrosion control activities Capture solvent/soaps used to prepare aircraft for painting Perform corrosion control activities inside

Hazardous material storage Store hazardous materials inside or under cover Reduce use of hazardous materials

Outdoor material storage areas Cover and curb salt, coal, urea piles Store product drums inside or under cover Reduce quantity of material stored outside

Outdoor painting/depainting operations Capture sandblasting media for proper disposal Capture paint clean up materials (thinners, rinsates)

Pesticide operations Capture rinse water when mixing chemicals Store spray equipment inside

Power production Capture leaks and spills from power production equipment using drip pans, etc.

Installation of a permanent secondary containment under the engines.

Vehicle storage yards Check vehicles in storage for leaks and spills Use drip pans to capture leaking fluids

Thule Air Base, Greenland 16 FY-15

6.0 PROBLEMS DISCOVERED BY THE EVALUATION OF BEST

MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

Based on the evaluation the following has been discovered or renewed:

6.1 Small, constant spill of POL, fuel and other types of liquids from engines

An internal combustion engine powers much of the heavy equipment and vehicles at Thule AB.

Due to wear and tear internal combustion engines have a tendency to begin leaking fluids, especially oil. Although the individual machine is not spilling much, the total numbers will add to the total amount that potentially will be able to make an impact on the SWDS.

6.2 Small spill from hoses and connectors

As mentioned in the FGS Table C4.T3 (see Table in 5.15) hose and connector used in combination with distribution of fuel contains a risk for pollution of storm water.

6.3 Fueling of Heavy Equipment

As identified in 5.3, fueling of heavy equipment takes place in non-secured areas. As such, the fueling process forms a risk of polluting the storm water.

6.4 Other risks of large spills of POL

A large accidental spill of fuel in a non-secured area would be a major problem related to the environment. The tanks have in many cases been replaced with new double-walled tanks or secured by secondary containments. However, that will not cover all risks of spill – other possibilities could be:

Fuel is transferred from the harbor to the main storage areas and further to the main power plant via fixed steel pipes. A leak is always a possibility due to leaking valve.

Fuel is transported on and off base by truck. There is a risk hoses might rupture and trucks might be involved in a traffic accident.

The fuel trucks are mainly designed with the purpose to supply planes and large consumers. Many small usage points have been designed accordingly to standard specifications, leaving the operators in a situation where they have to be very careful of spillage.

6.5 Historical Contamination

The soil at Thule Air Base is known to be contaminated from historical fuel spills and practices.

For example, a 1997 fuel spill near the M-plant has 35000 gallons of unaccounted aviation fuel.

It will require substantial site characterization projects to assess the impact on the storm water system.

As part of BMC operations this historical contamination is monitored as areas of concern. This surveillance is documented by GC/EE.

Furthermore, an ongoing effort to risk assess these areas of concern IAW DoDI 4715.8 Envi-ronmental Remediation for DoD Activities Overseas (as required by FGS C18.3.6) has been awarded to Jacob’s Engineering (WWCX 10-1110 Preliminary Survey/Site Investigation (PS/SI)).

Thule Air Base, Greenland 17 FY-15

6.6 Tank Farm Dike Water

For the main bulk fuel storage tanks, the potential pollution of the storm water is prevented by a containment consisting of a dike and a double plastic liner. As the containments are dimensioned to contain the full capacity of the tank, with a total precipitation of 127 mm a year or approximately 5 inches, the secondary containment will be able to contain several years of precipitation.

As the containments are not made to withhold the precipitation but to prevent pollution with fuel, the water has to be removed when it is possible.

The problem related to the removal of tank farm dike water is, that the water might be polluted with fuel – and as such the water has to be treated accordingly (see 6.2).

6.7 Deicing of aircraft

Deicing of aircraft is performed using glycol without containment. Minor deicing is performed on the spot (on the ramp). Major deicing is performed at the hammerhead (approach end of runway off to the side). (Please see 5.2 Aircraft/runway deicing)

6.8 Oil/water separators

Oil/water separators are placed in specific locations to withhold oil from water in case the water might be contaminated with mineral oil. According FGS C4.3.2.1.5 Oil and Grease the discharge of the following oils, which can pass through or cause interference to the DWTS, is prohibited:

Petroleum oil, non-biodegradable cutting oil, and products of mineral oil origin.

Oil/water separators are routinely cleaned and maintained IAW the Preventive Maintenance Program.

Oil/water separators are installed for vehicle washing ramps in Bldgs. 580, 622, 836, 1408 and at the pier during the summer.

An oil/water separator is located at the Crash Fire Rescue Training Facility at Perimeter Road.

The oil/water separator is only operated when the Fire Department performs aircraft crash exer-cises. Used fire water is led through the oil/water separator to the Storm Water Drainage Sys-tem.

An oil/water separator is located in the culverts on the corner of Crescent road, Bldg. 610 and Bldg. 614, directly into the Storm Water Drainage System. This culvert was renovated during the early summer of 2008 in order to be able to handle the large amounts of storm water during spring. The purpose of the oil/water separator is to capture POL from a potential fuel spill from the aircraft refueling facilities (Bldgs. 614 and 617). During the winter, snow from the airfield is removed and piled in this area. The oil/water separator will capture released products from vehi-cles in this snow even if crews accidentally do not observe that a release has occurred.

Another oil/water separator is included in the mobile Brita filter system.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 18 FY-15

6.9 Outdoor painting and corrosion control

Outside painting and corrosion control is primarily a question on flight line painting and maintenance of buildings. The risk for the SWDS would be handling of residual paint and solvent, if the paint were still wet when it starts to rain during removal of old paints. Weather forecasts are used to predict a dry period where the paint work can be carried out safely.

Paint and solvent is – if no source of reuse is possible – regulated according to the Hazardous Waste Management Plan (CDRL CEV 15-B). To paint outside when it is raining should be avoided. The amount of lead-based paint from removal of old paint is very limited.

6.10 Hazardous Materials/Waste Storage

Storage of hazardous materials/waste must take place in areas and buildings indoors, with no or little risk for runoff from containers to the storm water drainage system.

Before an area is used for storage of hazardous materials/waste, a risk assessment for undesirable runoff to the storm water drainage system must be accomplished. Approval by GC Environmental Engineering is required before storage of larger quantities of hazardous materials/waste.

6.11 Construction Activities

Construction activities represent a significant potential for pollution of the storm water. The following simple methods can be used to prevent pollution from construction activities.

Storm Water Flow Diversion (rerouting storm water flow around the construction site)

Sediments and Erosion Prevention Practices (using filter fences, check dams and stabilization ponds)

Infiltration Practices (Subsurface drains)

Dust Control Practices (using water or chemical suppressants)

Handling and use of hazardous materials and waste

GC/EE will conduct thorough project reviews, preconstruction meetings and/or environmental briefings as well as other discussions and help define applicable pollution prevention measures and have the responsibility to do field inspections of construction sites.

Thule Air Base, Greenland 19 FY-15

7.0 STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

The following section contains the regulations for activities that might cause pollution to the Storm Water Drainage System (SWDS).

7.1 Spill of POL, Fuel, Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste

Spill of POL, fuel, hazardous materials and hazardous waste is the primary problem related to potential pollution of the SWDS. Handling those spills is the main purpose of Spill Prevention and Response Plan (CDRL CEV-15C). A spill of POL, fuel, hazardous materials and hazardous waste has to be treated accordingly.

7.2 Tank Dike Water

Removal of tank dike water is carried out by GC/UFM. This task is performed to create sufficient capacity in the secondary containment area of the tanks to contain the entire content of the tank plus sufficient freeboard to allow for addition of water from rainfall or from melting ice/snow.

Prior to any discharge, the dike water must be inspected by GC/EE. GC/UFM contacts Environmental engineering in order to schedule this task. Records must be kept that indicate all water removed from containment dikes was visually inspected for the presence of contamination, typically fuel sheen. GC/EE will conduct all visual inspections and maintain the records.

If there is no visible oil film on the surface of the dike water, it is permitted to dispose of the dike water into the nearby creek, without passing it through an oil/water separator. The Tank Farm personnel must obtain approval for this procedure by GC/EE.

Water with sheen must be treated prior to discharge (e.g. passage through an oil/water separator or dewatering bag). Following the detection of fuel sheen, GC/EE will be a direct, active participant in all subsequent operational steps.

7.3 Cross Connections

A special plan on control and removal of cross connections are operative in accordance with AFI 32-1066, and is not a part of this plan.

7.4 Outlets of Wastewater into the Storm Water Drainage System (SWDS)

Outlet of wastewater to waters of host nation happens in accordance with the Slug (Wastewater) Management Plan (CDRL CEV15-J).

The following outlets exist and are authorized:

The outlet of the sewage from UEWR at Bldg. 4002.

The outlet of the sewage from J-Site at Bldg. 4016.

The outlet from the indoor vehicle wash ramp at Bldg. 605.

The outdoor vehicle wash ramp near the harbor (no facility number).

In all other situations the discharge of Sanitary Waste Water is prohibited. In a situation where a discharge of Sanitary Waste Water into the SWDS is necessary, GC Environmental Engineering can grant a temporary permission. For routine purpose the request has to be started 5 working days in advance.

GC Environmental Engineering has to keep records as long as the permission is valid and 3 years after.

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Temporary authorization has been provided for a recently discovered, previously undocumented outlet to the storm water system. At bldg 1824 (DET-1) blowdown water from the boiler is dis-charge directly into the open environment. The discharge will be eliminated with project WWCX 10-1088 Replace HVAC, DET-1. The project has been funded and awarded and will be executed in 2015.

7.5 Discharge of Storm Water into the Sanitary Wastewater System

Discharge of storm water into the Sanitary Wastewater System is generally not allowed. In special cases, a permit can be issued in accordance with the Slug (Wastewater) Management Plan (CDRL CEV-15J).

7.6 Hazardous Materials/Waste Storage

Storage of hazardous materials/waste should preferably be placed in areas and buildings indoors, with no or little risk for runoff from containers to the storm water drainage system.

Before an area is used for storage of hazardous materials/waste, a risk assessment for undesirable runoff to the storm water drainage system must be accomplished. Approval by GC Environmental Engineering is required before storage of larger quantities of hazardous materials/waste.

Handling of hazardous materials has to be performed in accordance with the Hazardous Materials Management Plan. Hazardous waste has to be handled according to the Hazardous Waste Management Plan (CDRL CEV-15B).

7.7 Project Coordination

Beside the operation of the base, many individual projects take place – minor and major projects. Minor projects (renovation and construction) of a price up to $1,000,000 will normally be completed on base by GC. Seasonal contractors will normally handle major projects.

GC Environmental Engineering reviews each project for potential storm water pollution hazards.

Every major project is identified as a separate project, having its own identification. GC Environmental Engineering will review each project design/plan, at either the 35%, 65% or 90% design review stage to ensure storm water pollution prevention requirements are included in engineering designs and work order packages. Projects will include temporary measures to prevent storm water pollution due to construction activities and requirements for best management practices. Review comments are forwarded to GC Engineering/Project Management and filed under the project number.

7.8 Storm water surveillance

As the office with the primary responsibility for compliance assessment with the FGS at Thule AB, GC/EE is continuously monitoring the Storm Water system for potential problems. This can include

Evaluation of BMP compliance through inspections (e.g. construction sites, permanent shops, outdoor painting operations).

Evaluating the condition of culverts, oil water separators and other storm water system infrastructure.

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Preventing sheens and seeps from historical contamination reaching the storm water systems by establishing interim measures, typically placing POL absorbent pillows across steams etc.

Monitoring of water levels

Collecting samples from point source such as sanitary landfill and the landfarm area in the vicinity of hangars 1 and 2.

7.9 Personnel Training

GC personnel and contractors who handle hazardous substances or perform activities that could contribute pollution to wet weather events are trained in appropriate Best Management Practices appropriate for individual shops. The training emphasizes pollution prevention, awareness of possible pollution sources and local measures to contain spillage in a way that makes it possible to contain the spillage.

GC Environmental Engineering training programs include:

Hazardous Waste Handling, in accordance with “Hazardous Waste Management Plan

(CDRL CEV-15B)”

Chemical Hazard Communication, in accordance with “Hazardous Material Management Plan”

Spill Response Training, in accordance with “Spill Prevention & Response Plan (CDRL

CEV-15C)”

7.10 Record Keeping

To effectively manage the Storm Water Management Plan all inspections, samplings and training records must be retained for at least 3 years.

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APPENDIX 1: DEFINITIONS

Thule AB Thule Air Base

Storm Water In accordance with FGS C4.2.27: Storm Water: Run-off of a drainage from wet weather events such as rain, snow, ice, sleet or hail.

SWDS

Storm Water Drainage System. The system of dikes, ditches and culverts that secures the drainage of surface water on Thule AB.

Tank Dike Water Storm water collected in secondary containments on major fuel tanks.

Secondary Containment

A volume created by e.g. a dike, a salvage drum, a double wall or a tray that can collect a liquid pollutant in case of a leakage of the containment, where it is stored.

Waters of the Host Nation Surface waters including the territorial seas recognized under customary international law.

Hazardous substances

A substance, which is defined as either hazardous materials or hazardous waste, in accordance with Appendix 1 of the FGS.

Major Project A construction or planning project that has an expected cost of more than $1,000,000, regardless of the funding source.

Minor Project

A construction or maintenance project with an expected cost of less than $1,000,000, regardless of the funding source.

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APPENDIX 2: STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM

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STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEM – Continued

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APPENDIX 3: DISTRIBUTION LIST

The PDF document is distributed via email IAW CDRL Summary list.

21st Space Wing Civil Engineering Squadron

21 CES/CEIE

21st SW/PMD donald.chase@us.af.mil

21sw.pmd.thule@us.af.mil

821st Air Base Group 821 ABG/CC Commander

821SPTS.cc.wf@us.af.mil

821st Support Squadron 821 SPTS/CE Flight Commander

821SPTSCEDISTRO@US.AF.MIL

Greenland Contractors, Thule Air Base All GC organizations (on GC LAN) GC Intranet

Thule Air Base 26 FY-15

APPENDIX 4: REVIEW COMMENTS