This is a brief description of studies that exemplify the methods and approaches that have been developed and used by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) researchers in conducting integrated assessments. See the complete list of Integrated Assessment Briefs to find out more about ORNL's efforts in integrated assessment. Contact Mike Farrell (farrellmp@ornl.gov) for more information.

Ecotoxicological Benchmark Development

The photographs above show wild turkey eggs and endangered plants. Toxicological benchmarks are used for screening potential contaminants of concern for effects on wildlife and plants.

What concentrations of contaminants in water, sediment, soil, and food constitute thresholds for potentially significant risks to ecological receptors?

Ecotoxicological benchmarks are estimates of exposure concentrations that, because they pose minimal risks, are not of regulatory concern and do not require further assessment. They are used to refine the list of contaminants of concern, exposure pathways, and ecological receptors that are evaluated in the assessment. They also allow prioritization of contaminated sites.

All of these benchmarks have been compiled into one comprehensive database. As new information becomes available, these benchmark values are revised and publications are updated.

Blaylock, B. G., M. L. Frank and B. R. O'Neal. 1993. Methodology for estimating radiation dose rates to freshwater biota exposed to radionuclides in the environment. ES/ER/TM-78. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tenn.

Hull R. N. and G. W. Suter, II. 1994. Toxicological benchmarks for screening contaminants of potential concern for effects on sediment-associated biota: 1994 revision. ES/ER/TM-95/R1. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tenn.

Opresko, D. M., B. E. Sample, and G. W. Suter, II. 1994. Toxicological benchmarks for wildlife. ES/ER/TM-86. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tenn.

Suter, G. W., II, and J. B. Mabrey. 1994. Toxicological benchmarks for screening potential contaminants of concern for effects on aquatic biota: 1994 revision. ES/ER/TM-96R1. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tenn.

Will, M. E. and G. W. Suter, II. 1994. Toxicological benchmarks for screening potential contaminants of concern for effects on terrestrial plants: 1994 revision. ES/ER/TM-85R1. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tenn.

Where To?

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Integrated Assessment Briefs. 1995. ORNL/M-4227. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN.