Socio-Economics of Remediating Contaminated Sediment for the St. Clair River Area of Concern

Of the total amount of contaminated sediment in the upper stretch of the St. Clair River, there are approximately 4500 cubic meters of sediment contaminated by mercury and organic chemicals that represent five of the remaining seven impaired uses in the St. Clair River Area of Concern. This material is the result of industrial pollution over a number of years in the Sarnia, Ontario, “Chemical Valley” and has most likely entered the St. Clair River via a surface drain passing through an industrial landfill. Scientific studies indicate that the contaminated material is constantly migrating downstream and has a potential for significant releases from large vessel traffic propeller wash or ice action. This paper examines two remediation options in the light of the potential benefits from a cleanup of the contaminated sediments. While not a typical benefit-cost analysis, this study explores the relationship between remediation and the social and economic benefits associated with “delisting” of the St. Clair River as an Area of Concern. The study has implications for other Areas of Concern that have sediment-related problems and require remedial action to meet the goals of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.