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An assessment of applying decision analysis to determining the optimum capping level in the disposal of contaminated sediments in Boston Harbor

This study examined the use of decision analysis in the recommendation of an optimal capping level in disposal of contaminated sediments in Boston Harbor. The research concentrated on validating the feasibility of applying a decision analysis methodology to such types of environmental issues. Two contaminants were studied: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Decision trees dealing with the bioaccumulation and the allowable water column concentrations of PAHs and PCBs were implemented. By taking into account both disposal and environmental costs, factoring in user defined probabilities, and performing the appropriate calculations, it was determined that the optimal capping level for Boston Harbor was 1.5 meters. Thesis Supervisors: Judith Pederson, Ph.D: Manager, MITSG Center for Coastal Studies David Marks, Ph.D.: Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering