Why is the process of assessing the damage to and cleaning up the Hudson taking so long?
The Hudson River is a large and very complex system, and a detailed assessment of the contamination in the River requires extensive scientific study. EPA’s Reassessment, which began in 1990, is being performed in three phases. Phase 1 included the collection of existing data on the Hudson River from a wide variety of sources and placing that data into a single database. Analysis of that data uncovered significant data gaps to be filled by additional data collected in Phase 2 of the Reassessment. Phase 2 (which is currently being performed by EPA) consists of field sampling and analysis, computer modeling and human and ecological risk assessments. Data generated during Phase 2 will fill previously existing data gaps in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the contaminated sediments in the Upper Hudson and the impact of those sediments on the site. Phase 3, in which EPA will evaluate possible remedial alternatives for the site, will be conducted after Phase 2 is complete. EP
