Gradient excels at collecting, organizing, analyzing, and visualizing large amounts of disparate data accurately and efficiently. Managing environmental data with cutting-edge programming and automation techniques enables multiple project team members from different disciplines and organizations to access, review, and track information from a consolidated, quality-controlled source. Supported by our in-house Information Resource Center (IRC) and its dedicated staff of research librarians, Gradient scientists develop practical data products and solutions, such as centralized databases and web-based visualization applications, to help project teams to work in parallel with one another and reduce the time spent on iteratively harmonizing results. Gradient Geographic Information System (GIS) scientists also manage and display non-spatial data, such as product composition data web applications.
Historical Review and Web-Based GIS Development
Gradient performed a comprehensive historical review of a site from the 1880s to the present to guide site characterization efforts and identify other potentially responsible parties (PRPs). We obtained, analyzed, and combined historical photographs, maps, and other images, along with information and data from hydrogeologic reports and environmental investigations. We also developed a web-based GIS-mapping application to communicate the results of our analyses to stakeholders.
Groundwater Elevation and Chemical Isopleth Contour Map Development
Gradient developed groundwater elevation and chemical isopleth contour maps from spatial interpolation methods, using a US EPA- and USGS-approved 3D groundwater contaminant transport model. We designed a database to catalog and track routine groundwater gauging and sampling events, and generated graphs, tables, and maps representing the groundwater sampling data.
GIS Database Development and Application to Visualize Environmental Data
To support large-scale research efforts to identify potential sources of contamination, Gradient constructed a comprehensive GIS database of the locations of facilities and other regulated sites from local, state, and national data repositories. We used GIS to create dynamic visuals and web-based mapping applications to enable collaboration between project team members and evaluate data accurately and efficiently.
Geospatial Analyses for Sediment Cost Allocation
For a heavily impacted urban water body, Gradient developed a comprehensive multimedia database from multiple data sources to identify potential upland sources and impacts to sediments. We performed geospatial analyses, including interpolating sediment core log data and evaluating spatial variability, to identify sources and allocate sediment volumes that had been impacted by those sources.
Web-Based Product Safety Database
Gradient built a centralized database system to store chemical hazard assessment information and laboratory analytical results related to product safety. Along with this database system, Gradient developed a web-based user interface to allow project team members to conduct the hazard assessment process efficiently and generate customized date summaries and reports quickly and accurately.
