Integrated Environmental Site Characterization Involving Geochemistry, Geophysics, And Geology: A Shortcut To Remediation

Environmental site characterization processes have evolved from simple drill-and-sample routines into more<br>sophisticated evaluations of increasingly complex problems involving a variety of contaminants. Strategic<br>integration of several geoscience tools into a more holistic approach benefits the site owner/operator by developing<br>a synoptic perspective of the site at the earliest possible time, allowing for more selective and focused use of the<br>expensive and invasive technologies. The ultimate effect is a better site characterization. including attention to<br>difficult PRP issues, lower liability, fewer risks of bypassing potentially hazardous contaminant accumulations, and<br>a result that is more targeted to environmental and human health risks.<br>An integrated site investigation system requires good geology and hydrology, but is properly augmented by use of<br>modem and sophisticated geochemical and geophysical tools, Establishing characterization objectives is critical in<br>deciding what geoscience tool(s) to deploy in any given situation, For each tool, critical criteria are identified that<br>will enable the user to best decide which to use for what purposes.