Contaminant plume

A distribution of contamination in an environmental medium, such as groundwater, extending from one or more sources.

Why it matters

A map reflects the available sampling and interpretation rather than a permanently fixed boundary. Data gaps and changes over time should remain visible.

In practice

A project example

Additional downgradient sampling changes the interpreted extent of a groundwater impact.

General educational guidance from KOW Building Consultants. Examples are illustrative, not project records. The applicable contract, standard, program, and jurisdiction control the requirements for a specific assignment.