What does the term "abandoned" imply for the status of an underground storage tank?

The term "abandoned" in relation to an underground storage tank refers to a state where the tank is no longer in use and has been left unused for an indefinite period of time, without any modifications being made to it. This implies that the tank is not being actively monitored or maintained, which can lead to numerous environmental risks, such as leaks or contamination, if not properly managed.

In this context, abandonment signifies that the tank is out of service and remains in its existing condition, potentially subject to regulatory requirements that specify how abandoned tanks must be managed or removed. It differentiates from tanks that may still be monitored or inspected, which would suggest they have some form of active status. Understanding this term is crucial for professionals involved in site assessments to ensure compliance with regulations designed to mitigate environmental impacts stemming from old or unused storage tanks.