Abstract

 The draft Contaminated Sediments Science Plan provides an analysis of the current U.S. EPA science activities in the contaminated sediments area. It identifies and evaluates the science gaps, and provides a strategy for filling these gaps. In order to promote the vision of providing a strong scientific basis for addressing contaminated sediments, the draft Contaminated Sediments Science Plan has three goals: 1) The development and dissemination of tools and science necessary to address the management of contaminated sediments; 2) To enhance the level of coordination and communication of science activities dealing with contaminated sediments across the Agency Program and Regional Offices and Office of Research and Development; and 3) To develop an effective, cost-effective strategy to promote these scientific activities (including research).
  A database of Agency scientific and research activities in the contaminated sediment area was developed. Analysis of Agency scientific activities focused on the following specific areas: sediment site characterization, exposure assessment, human health and ecological risk assessment, sediment remediation, baseline and post-remediation monitoring, risk communication and community involvement, information management and exchange activities. Significant data gaps, uncertainties in methodology and assessment procedures, and duplication of efforts were analyzed. In each area, recommendations for key research and science activities to fill the data gaps and resolve related issues are proposed.