Introduction to study area hydrogeology, chromium sources, site history, and purpose of study

Abstract

This study was developed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) with input from a technical working group (TWG) composed of community members, the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB), the Independent Review Panel Manager (Project Navigator, Ltd.), Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), and consultants for PG&E. The study was funded cooperatively under an agreement between the Lahontan RWQCB and the USGS. Funding for the study was provided by PG&E to the Lahontan RWQCB. Logistical support for field work, including access to wells, was provided by PG&E. The TWG met approximately quarterly during the study to provide input to the study, and the Hinkley community was updated annually on study progress.The authors thank the many people involved in the design and implementation of this study including the staff of the Lahontan RWQCB, the staff of PG&E and their consultants, and the staff of Project Navigator, Ltd. The authors also acknowledge and thank the many involved community members who allowed access to their properties for sample collection, and who collectively donated thousands of hours on behalf of the local community in support of this project and for resolution of other issues related to anthropogenic hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), within the Hinkley area.