Abstract

  There has been significant focus recently on contaminated sediments in the United States and worldwide. For example, over 300 sites of impacted sediments have been identified in a number of U.S. EPA publications, including the recently issued 2nd edition U.S. EPA Contaminated Sediments Inventory. In the Great Lakes area alone, 42 Areas of [Sediment] Concern have been identified. Some of the larger sites involve millions of cubic yards, and potentially high remedial costs [ranging from the high hundred million to over a billion dollars]. In addition, Sediment sites typically are far more complex scientifically and technically than their land-based counterparts.
  One of the concepts commonly referred to by many involved in these challenging issues is a "risk-based" approach. Since its formation in the spring of 1998, the Sediment Management Work Group ("SMWG") has advocated an objective, scientific approach to contaminated sediment management. In 1999, we developed a comprehensive, interactive Risk-Based Decision-Making Framework which guides one through the site process. Modules include site assessment and conceptual site model development; early action/control of sources; development of risk-based remedial action objectives; identification of appropriate sediment management alternatives; and criteria for selection of an appropriate sediment management option. The decision framework serves to surface key areas of uncertainty (e.g., sediment bed stability, contaminant fate and transport) in strategy development so that these can be addressed. This presentation reviews the major components of the SMWG Framework and discusses areas of improvement identified by SMWG since the model was initially developed. (The decision framework can be viewed at the SMWG website: www.smwg.org) In addition, the presentation reviews the current and upcoming key initiatives in the emerging field of Sediment Management.