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First, [he information presented does not indicate that shrink/swell tests, such as American <br />Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D4546-96 Standard Methods for One-Dimensional <br />Swell or Settlement Potential of Cohesive Soils were conducted, nor, if [hey were, the test <br />results. <br />Secondly, the information presented does not indicate [he method of sample collection. Tests, <br />such as ASTM D4546-96, would best be (for the case as presented in the letter of February 9, <br />2001) conducted on relatively undisturbed samples. <br />Thirdly, the information presented does not indicate the location (site) of the soil sample. In the <br />case in question, a precise site and relationship of that location to features of damage to the <br />adobe structure would be appropriate. <br />In addition, the data presented in the CTL/Chompson Report indicate that the soil sample <br />retrieved during December 2000 is 79.2% clay. This clay content may not be consistent with <br />soils prone to collapse. Dudley (1970) and Bull (1964) indicate that soils prone to collapse tend <br />to exhibit clay contents which are less than 20~/o clay. <br />CONCLUSION <br />The opinions presented in the letter of February 9, 200] are not supported by standazd <br />engineering analyses and testing procedures, and the references cited above may contradict the <br />conclusion that soils with a 79.2% clay content will collapse. <br />QUALIFICATIONS <br />Byron G. Walker, P.E., has not previously testified as an expert witness. Mr. Walker has soils <br />engineering experience. <br />PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATIONS <br />Registered Professional Engineer in Colorado (Number 18378) <br />Registered Professional Engineer in Missouri (Number 11729) <br />PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE <br />Environmental Protection Specialist, Colorado Division of Minerals and Geology, 1/l3/97 to <br />present. <br />Senior Project Manager and Engineer, Greystone Development Consultants, 6/12/91 to 1/7/97. <br />Engineering Geologist and Project Manager, Private Practice l August 1990 to 6/1 I/91. <br />Chief, Soils and Geology Branch, U. S. Army Engineer School, Fort Belvoir, Virginia, July 1972 <br />to November 1974. <br />