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A series of soil gas surveys and a soil sampling event was conducted on properties adjacent to Taylor Slough in Uvalde, Texas from July through October 1988. The focus of these investigative efforts was the site of the former Gensco, Inc. pipe finishing facility. The purpose of the investigation was to assess potential source(s) of volatile organic compound (VOC) contamination to the Edwards and Leona aquifers.

Results of the survey indicate the presence of VOC in soil gas beneath the study area. The·highest VOC concentrations were detected beneath the site of the former Texas Industrial Services property west of the Taylor Slough. Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) is the predominant contaminant of these shallow soil gases.

An area of relatively high PCE concentrations in soil gas was found within the former Gensco Inc. site. These concentrations were three orders of magnitude less than those found under the former Texas Industrial Services site. Cores obtained from this area were tested by field head space and laboratory analyses.  Head space analyses confirmed the presence of PCE.  Laboratory analyses revealed the presence of only acetone and xylenes.