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Applying Benthic Data: Mapping Contaminated Sediments

Remediation Strategies

Strategies for managing and remediating depend on the objectives of a particular program, as well as a variety of political, regulatory, engineering, and economic factors. The following are the three basic types of sediment remediation plans:

  1. Treatment of the sediments to remove or dilute the contaminants. This can be on-site (in situ) or after removing the contaminated sediment (ex situ).
  2. Removing the sediments via dredging, and then either disposing of or reusing them.
  3. Containing the sediments using methods such as capping.

To select the most efficient remediation strategy, managers have to consider the applicability, limitations and research needs, expenses, practicality, effectiveness, and the benefits and risks of each method. Additionally, factors such as laws and regulations, site assessment methods, and the ability to control new contaminant inputs may effect management and remediation decisions.