This team developed a model to determine the chemical and physical behavior of sediment-bound contaminants that become resuspended in water after clean-up activities, such as dredging. With their model, the team discovered which specific processes may affect biotic exposure to toxic pollutants in the water column during sediment removal operations.

Team members shared their model through over 50 peer-reviewed articles, presentations and seminars. All but one of the 43 Areas of Concern (AOCs) listing contaminated sediments as an impairment to beneficial use. This work could help in selecting the best actions to control and remove toxic pollutants from bottom sediments in the Great Lakes AOCs.