Which statement is incorrect regarding Phase II ESA?

The statement that Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESA) is a rule similar to Phase I ESA under the All Appropriate Inquiries (AAI) is incorrect. Phase I ESA is primarily focused on identifying potential environmental liabilities through a historical review and site reconnaissance, and it does not include physical testing of site conditions. AAI guidelines provide a framework for Phase I assessments but do not prescribe specific testing methods or protocols.

In contrast, Phase II ESA is not governed by the same rules as Phase I; rather, it is a subsequent investigation that is conducted when Phase I reveals potential contamination. It involves a more detailed and scientific approach, including field-testing of soil and groundwater, to ascertain the extent and presence of contaminants. This phase is specifically designed to confirm or refute the findings from Phase I and provide more comprehensive data on site contamination levels.

The other statements are accurate: Phase II does involve a thorough analysis of site contamination and includes testing to characterize the environmental conditions, making it an essential component of a complete environmental evaluation.