Environmental Assessment of Rural Agricultural Or Forestland Properties

Conducting a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment for a large, predominately undeveloped property presents special challenges when using the ASTM Standard Method E 1527 (Practice for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Process). A different ASTM Standard, E 2247 – 08 (Standard Practice for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Process for Forestland or Rural Property) was developed to address these issues. The purpose of E 2247 – 08 standard is to define good procedures for conducting a Phase I environmental site assessment of forestland or rural properties. To qualify for use of the ASTM standard, the property needs to meet certain criteria relating to size and land uses.

Like other ASTM standard practices, a valid ESA must be conduct by professionals meeting specific qualification requirements.

As with other ASTM standards for Phase I Environmental Site Assessments, the standard only addresses 1) contaminants within the scope of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and 2) petroleum products. Persons using the ESA report might want to consider additional issues which are outside the scope of the Phase I ESA, including:

• Asbestos-Containing Building Materials,
• Best Management Practices,
• Radon,
• Lead-Based Paint,
• Lead in Drinking Water,
• Wetlands,
• Regulatory compliance,
• Cultural and historic resources,
• Industrial hygiene,
• Health and safety,
• Ecological resources,
• Endangered species,
• Indoor air quality,
• Biological agents, and
• Mold.
  

Caltha LLP assists prospective Buyers and their Lenders in meeting Due Diligence, Environmental Site Assessment and Environmental Review requirements. To request a quote on-line, go to Caltha Environmental Assessment Quote Web Page.

For further information contact Caltha LLP at
info@calthacompany.com
or
Caltha LLP Website