USAE has expertise in providing munitions response and geophysical services to support local government and commercial clients in safely evaluating and mitigating potential hazards associated with Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC) and Material Potentially Presenting an Explosive Hazard (MPPEH) on former military properties slated for redevelopment. Our field-proven process and safety-driven approach enable clients to proceed with development projects confidently, knowing site conditions are fully understood and compliant with applicable safety standards.

Recently, USAE completed two due diligence assessments within the former Conway Bombing and Gunnery Range in Horry County, SC. Each project involved using geophysical surveys to evaluate the potential presence of MEC/MPPEH. The first assessment covered a 13-acre site designated for a planned community recycling center, and the second covered a 71-acre site anticipated for Veterans Affairs development.

Following a thorough review of the site’s history, previous environmental documentation, and a site walk, USAE determined that both properties had a low probability for the presence of MEC/MPPEH but warranted further investigation to ensure safe development.

To confirm these findings, USAE conducted geophysical surveys using analog detection methods along pre-determined transects. Transect spacing was determined using Visual Sample Planning (VSP), an industry-accepted software that provides optimal coverage for detecting potential hazards. Transect spacing ranged from 22.5 to 67 meters, based on site acreage and terrain, to provide optimal detection confidence.

Each investigation was completed by a qualified UXO team equipped with Minelab E-TRAC all-metal detectors, Trimble DA2 GPS systems, and GIS-enabled tablets for real-time data tracking. Across both sites, the team detected and investigated over 330 subsurface anomalies, documenting each item and verifying that all anomalies were associated with general metallic debris such as scrap metal and aluminum cans. No MEC or MPPEH was encountered at either site.

Close coordination with the customer ensured that vegetation clearance, site access, and safety protocols were completed efficiently and without delay. Through careful planning and daily quality control checks, USAE completed both projects on schedule, providing comprehensive summary reports and geophysical results maps that detailed the survey coverage, anomaly locations, and final findings.

The successful completion of these investigations confirmed that both Horry County sites are free from explosive hazards and suitable for redevelopment. This work highlights USAE’s capability in geophysical surveying, anomaly investigation, and the delivery of actionable results that enable safe and confident development decisions.