Phased ecological risk assessment protocol for Superfund sites
Conference
·
OSTI ID:40149
- EnSafe/Allen and Hoshall, Inc., Memphis, TN (United States)
A three-phased ecological assessment procedure has been developed at a 5,800 acre Superfund site, which is designed to be timely and cost-effective. The unique aspect is that it can be halted at any stage if ecological risk can be adequately characterized. The investigation focuses primarily on wetlands and water bodies but can be applied to terrestrial habitats. Phase 1, the planning and preliminary investigation stage, incorporates site history and data from previous investigations to determine background conditions, the need for further study, and appropriate study methods and endpoints. If ecological impact is suspected, sediment grain size and total organic carbon distribution is mapped to identify likely areas of contamination. Phase 2 focuses chemical analysis in areas of likely contamination determined during Phase 1. These results are compared to background locations and published benchmarks. If site-specific ecological impacts are suspected, species distribution and toxicity tests will help qualify or quantify the damage. These tests are performed on species representing different trophic levels. Benthic macroinvertebrate toxicity and distribution are emphasized. If remedial decisions cannot be made at this stage, Phase 3 will be implemented. This involves more focused toxicity tests or bioaccumulation studies to help determine what contaminant may be causing impact. After study completion, conclusions and uncertainties are summarized to characterize ecological risk. All information will be incorporated with related studies to reach a risk management decision to guide remedial action.
- OSTI ID:
- 40149
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9410273--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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