Damages are evaluated by identifying the functions or “services” provided by the resources, determining the baseline level of the services provided by the injured resource(s), and quantifying the reduction in service levels as a result of the release of contaminants. By developing realistic estimates of risk, the uncertainty and conservatism of cleanup levels are reduced, resulting in more cost-effective remedial solutions.

The collective experience of Geosyntec’s practitioners has shown that using a removal-first approach to address impacted sites is not always cost-effective. This approach has often failed to address the actual risk from contaminants of concern and can ultimately result in more ecological harm to the environment. Geosyntec’s approach is to identify the risk and develop an adaptive management strategy to address this risk through a combination of monitored natural recovery, removal, capping, and institutional controls.

We also recognize the importance of restoration in addressing remedial impacts as well as providing value through the Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) process. Our comprehensive approach provides cost-effective solutions while addressing the true risk, thereby resulting in effective remediation.
Because sites regulated under CERCLA and OPA are generally complex, because risk is central to conducting NRDA investigations and choosing remedies, and because continuing focus on potential NRDA claims is key, clients need technical experts who have strong working relationship with regulators. While the federal government’s mandate is to focus on risk mitigation, at the local level, it is often a challenge to build consensus for innovative remedies.

Geosyntec’s experts bring deep experience working with state regulators and federal officials to develop logical and effective remedial approaches that cost-effectively and efficiently mitigate current and future site risk. Our experience allows us to approach sediment sites with a proven approach that is acceptable to regulators.

We offer clients a hands-on understanding of the NRDA process that addresses potential restoration opportunities during the remedial alternative evaluation phase. We also possess the ability to tackle both common and emerging risk drivers, including microbial and radiological effects, chemicals, metals (lead, arsenic, etc.), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.