If you’re looking into soil remediation in Texas to clean up contaminated soil on your property, you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed. There’s a lot of information out there, and some of it sounds like it’s written for a science journal. That’s not what you’ll find here.
We’re CRG Texas Environmental Services, and we’ve been handling soil and groundwater remediation projects across the state for decades — from gas stations and fleet fueling sites to oilfields and refineries. In this article, we’ll break down when remediation is required, how it’s done, and what it might cost you. Let’s keep it simple and useful.
What Is Soil Remediation and Why Does It Matter?
Soil remediation means removing or treating pollution in soil so the land can be used safely. The contamination usually comes from fuel spills, leaking underground storage tanks (USTs), abandoned industrial sites, or runoff from past operations.
Contaminated soil doesn’t just stay put — it can harm groundwater, release toxic vapors, lower property values, and block construction projects. We’ve seen more than a few real estate deals fall apart after a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment revealed pollution that no one expected.
One client in South Texas found out their land was sitting on top of an old disposal pit used in the 1970s. What started as a simple plan to build a storage facility turned into a soil and groundwater cleanup project.
When Is Soil Remediation Required in Texas?
There are certain situations where soil cleanup in Texas is not just smart — it’s legally required. Here’s when you’ll likely need remediation:
1. A Phase II ESA Uncovers Contamination
If your site investigation turns up pollutants, lenders, buyers, or city officials may halt everything until it’s addressed.
2. A Spill or Leak Has Occurred
If fuel, chemicals, or other pollutants were released on-site, you’re required to report it to TCEQ and clean it up — especially if it reaches the groundwater.
3. You Have Old or Abandoned USTs
Underground storage tanks are notorious for leaking over time. Even if the tank has been removed, the soil might still need testing or cleanup.
4. You’re Redeveloping a Former Industrial Site
If your land has a history tied to heavy machinery, oil storage, or chemical use, expect to face cleanup requirements before you can build.
Soil Remediation Methods Used in Texas
At CRG Texas, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We look at the contaminant type, site conditions, and end use of the property to figure out what method will be the most effective and efficient. Here’s how we typically tackle soil remediation in Texas:
1. Excavation and Disposal
We dig up contaminated soil and transport it to a permitted disposal site. It’s simple, reliable, and often used when contamination is limited to surface soil.
2. In-Situ Chemical Oxidation or Microbial Treatment
For contaminants deeper in the soil, we treat them right where they are. We use chemical oxidants or biological agents to break down or neutralize pollutants underground. This is less disruptive and can be more cost-effective over time.
3. Soil Mixing
In cases where we need more control, we physically mix treatment chemicals into the soil using heavy equipment. This helps ensure full contact with pollutants in the treatment zone.
4. Soil Vapor Extraction (SVE)
This method removes harmful vapors from the soil. A vacuum system pulls volatile compounds (like gasoline vapors) out of the soil, where they’re filtered and safely discharged or captured.
5. Dual Phase Extraction (DPE)
Some sites have both liquid contamination and vapor issues. We use DPE systems that remove both at once — perfect for complex cases where contamination has reached the water table.
On one former fueling site, we used mobile DPE to remove liquid hydrocarbons and vapors at the same time, speeding up cleanup and saving the client from months of delay.
Soil Remediation Cost in Texas: What to Expect
The cost of soil remediation in Texas depends on the site size, contamination type, depth, and method used. Here’s a rough idea of what you could be looking at:
| Method | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Excavation & Disposal | $50 – $150 per cubic yard |
| Bioremediation / In-Situ | $25 – $75 per cubic yard |
| SVE System Setup | $20,000 – $50,000+ (initial setup) |
| Chemical Injection | $100 – $300+ per injection point |
| Dual Phase Extraction | Variable — depends on system type |
Other cost factors include:
Site access (tight areas or remote locations can raise costs)
Waste profiling and disposal fees
Reporting requirements with TCEQ or RRC
Depth of contamination and groundwater impact
We’ve had projects that started with minor surface cleanup and ended up requiring full dual-phase remediation due to unexpected groundwater impacts. The earlier you get professional testing, the better your chance of containing costs.
What the Soil Remediation Process Looks Like
Here’s how a typical remediation job goes with our team:
Step 1: Site Assessment
We review Phase I/II reports or conduct our own sampling and lab analysis to confirm contamination levels.
Step 2: Remedial Action Plan
We prepare a full remediation strategy, including method selection, estimated timelines, cost estimates, and required permits.
Step 3: Agency Coordination
If your site falls under TCEQ or the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC), we handle all communications and ensure compliance.
Step 4: Field Work
This is the hands-on part — excavation, treatment, or system installation.
Step 5: Closure Reporting
We collect post-remediation samples, verify cleanup goals were met, and submit a closure package for regulatory review.
Why Hire a Texas-Based Remediation Team
There’s a big difference between hiring a general contractor and hiring a team that understands environmental cleanup laws in Texas. Every state has its own rules, and TCEQ can be tough if things aren’t done right. We’ve helped clients across Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, and small towns get their sites cleaned and cleared without drama.
Our team knows how to keep projects moving and how to communicate with regulators. Whether you’re working through the Texas Risk Reduction Program (TRRP) or looking for a fast cleanup to keep a property deal alive, we’ve got you covered.
Need Help with Soil Remediation in Texas?
If you think your site may be contaminated — or you’ve already been told it needs cleanup — reach out to our team. Whether you’re a landowner, developer, or investor, we’ll guide you from testing through final closure.
Contact CRG Texas Environmental Services today for a consultation. Let’s get your project back on track.