Six Science Secrets of the Subsurface

Abstract

The biological, chemical, and physical complexities of the subsurface, coupled with the sheer volume impacted, present scientific challenges to providing reliable, cost-effective remediation approaches for the nation have contaminated sites. Research such as discussed herein will help advance our understanding of the fundamental processes that control contaminant behavior in the environment in ways that help solve the DOE's intractable problems in environmental remediation and stewardship. An accurate determination of the uranium that arrives at the shoreline allows scientists and engineers to design and implement technologies that capture or stabilize the uranium before it enters the river, which supplies water for agriculture and drinking water for downstream communities as well as being a major route for migrating salmon. Tracking biogeochemical reactions in the field is hampered by the need for expensive, invasive monitoring wells.