Abstract: The New Jersey Technical Requirements for Site Remediation (N.J.A.C. 7:26E) state that the results of chemical analyses of environmental samples must be provided in a GIS-compatible, electronic format. The regulated community has responded by submitting over 13,000 data sets for nearly 5000 contamination cases over a two-year period.

The use of electronic sampling results seeks to improve the decision-making process. This is achieved through rapid report generation, evaluation of sampling results against promulgated standards, and modeling of contaminants to determine exposure risks. Even more exciting is our growing ability to assess environmental impacts on a regional scale involving a multitude of sites over time. Whether data are utilized for tracking down contaminant sources or protecting public wells, the data-collection efforts in New Jersey represent an important step toward understanding and managing environmental conditions beyond the cleanup of individual waste sites. Electronic data open the door to new approaches for protecting human and ecological health. Through data sharing and display, this technology provides the foundation for increased participation toward that goal.

Across the country regulatory agencies have recognized the value of collecting contaminant data in digital format. Notably, EPA Region II is directing a regional effort involving New Jersey and New York, as well as the CERCLA, RCRA, and drinking water programs. The value of data holdings increases exponentially as contiguous regions are more fully represented and the period of coverage increases. When joined with emerging information technologies it is clear that this approach holds great potential for the future.