Site Characterization

Abstract

Site characterization involves the determination of the nature and behavior of all aspects of a site and its environment that could significantly influence, or be influenced by, a project. Geotechnical and environmental aspects should be jointly considered and evaluated. The basic purpose of site characterization is to provide sufficient, reliable information of the site conditions to permit good decisions to be made during assessment, design and construction phases of a project, or as required by regulatory agencies. Site characterization involves determining information on previous and current land use, topography and surface features, hydro-geology, hydrology, meteorology, geology, seismology, geotechnical aspects, environmental aspects, biology, zoology, air quality, water quality, geochemistry and other factors.