Section 236.127. Subsurface geology and hydrology

(a) Disqualifying criteria. Potentially suitable sites may not be located in areas where there is limestone or other predominantly carbonate lithologic units which exhibit one of the following characteristics:

(1) Outcrop at the surface.

(2) Occur within 50 feet of the surface and are greater than 5 feet thick.

(3) Have been identified as areas with a potential for subsidence.

(4) Currently exhibit evidence of subsidence at the surface.

(b) Evaluation requirements.

(1) The geology at potentially suitable sites shall be evaluated with respect to regional and local stratigraphy, lithologies and potential impact on site stability. Descriptions, illustrations and evaluations shall include characteristics such as local stratigraphic units and their accepted names, relative ages, lithologic descriptions and genetic relationships.

(2) Depths to local and regional zones of permanent saturations including seasonal fluctuations, shall be evaluated. The probability and extent of both permanent and seasonal perched water tables potentially affected by a site shall be evaluated.

(3) Local and potentially affected aquifers shall be described, evaluated and illustrated with respect to the following:

(i) Characteristics, such as lateral extent and thickness.

(ii) Rates, directions and volumes of groundwater flow.

(iii) Porosities and permeabilities.

(iv) Recharge areas and discharge areas.

(v) Reported chemical properties.

(4) Site-specific and local soil conditions shall be evaluated with respect to physical, chemical and mineralogical properties. Characteristics to be evaluated include:

(i) Lateral extent and thickness of soil horizons.

(ii) Classification names.

(iii) Relative ages.

(iv) Genetic relationships.

(v) Porosities and permeabilities.

(vi) Rates, directions and conditions of surface and subsurface flow.

Notation

Cross References

This section cited in 25 Pa. Code § 236.101 (relating to scope and applicability); 25 Pa. Code § 236.104 (relating to siting process); 25 Pa. Code § 236.108 (relating to site justification); and 25 Pa. Code § 236.121 (relating to general requirements).