The purpose of this standard operating procedure (SOP) is to set systematic guidelines to support proper planning and performance of clearing and grubbing activities prior to intrusive site work.

A majority of the Source Areas maintain overgrowth of scrub vegetation, trees and high grasses, all of which all will impede work activities. Zone Clearing will be conducted in 90,000 square foot grids to establish a safe and productive work area for access routes, Source Area excavation operations, stockpile management and treatment.

The existing brush piles located in the Buffer Zone, as well as living timber, stumps and brush will be cut, and chipped in place to reduce disturbing the underlying fill, provide a temporary dermal barrier for potentially contaminated surface fill and mitigate dust emissions. Any timber too large to mulch in place will be stockpiled for future chipping uses including laydown areas, temporary dermal barrier over contaminated surfaces, organic matter for bio wall construction, etc.