Intrinsic remediation of a diesel fuel plume in Goose Bay, Labrador, Canada

This paper begins with a discussion of intrinsic remediation processes. Although intrinsic remediation involves biological, physical and chemical processes, the biological processes are often the most important. A field investigation consisting of sampling 102 groundwater and three surface water locations is described to characterize the intrinsic remediation occurring at a hydrocarbon contaminated site in Goose Bay, Labrador, Canada. Aerobic bioremediation, denitrification, ferrous iron reduction and sulphate reduction are occurring. Analysis of isopachs and isopleths resulted in the prediction of the assimilative capacity of groundwater. Intrinsic remediation can reduce the effects of free floating hydrocarbon, or free product. The effects of remediation can be optimized by adding nitrate saturated water to the groundwater regime.