Cost-effective environmental consulting using geographic information systems and remote sensing

Summit Envirosolutions, Inc. is working in partnership with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Commercial Remote Sensing Program under the Earth Observations Commercial Applications Program to integrate the use of Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing technology into their environmental consulting business. A primary goal of their project is to develop a system, called RealFlows/sub SM/, that enables us to better characterize and monitor study areas. The objectives of RealFlow/sub SM/ include reducing client costs associated with environmental compliance, particularly with respect to preparation of Environmental Protection Agency mandated Wellhead Protection Plans. While the RealFlow/sub SM/ system is aimed primarily at subsurface characterization and wellhead protection, the authors are also using the technology in other service areas within their company. This paper discusses the goals and objectives of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration partnership and project, as well as their experience with the cost-effective implementation of this technology in private-sector consulting.