Presentation Title:
Lessons for Remediating Large Complex Sediment Sites without Federal or State Agency Involvement

Background/Objectives:

Discussions regarding ways to improve the remediation of large sediment sites across the country often focus on issues associated with federal or state requirements, agency decisions, or agency decision makers. Sites that are remediated without any federal or state agency involvement provide opportunities to try innovative approaches to remediation in the selection and implementation of remedies. This panel will present ways to improve remediation of large sediment sites as a result of lessons from remediating sites without any federal or agency involvement.

Approach/Activities:

Alternative approaches to site evaluation, remedy selection, and implementation have been evaluated at large sediment sites with a focus on addressing legacy contamination from historic sources. Sites have involved complicated features, such as significant tides, a freshwater/saltwater interface that effectively traps sediments, and wetland areas. Adaptive management has been ulitized to address uncertainties in the implementability and effectiveness of remedial measures. Each aspect of remediating a contaminated sediment site has been undertaken without federal or state involvement.

Results/Lessons Learned:

Alternatives to federal and state regulatory requirements and the typical agency process for evaluating and remediating contaminated sediment sites are not necessarily faster or more efficient and can present unique challenges that result in longer remedial timeframes and present difficulties in implementing remedial measures. This will be illustrated through concrete examples presented by experienced environmental consultants, professors, public interest group representatives, and in-house environmental specialists.

Mitchell Bernard

Affiliation

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Lessons for Remediating Large Complex Sediment Sites without Federal or State Agency Involvement