Adaptation of the Features, Events, and Processes (FEP) Methodology to Environmental Restoration

G.V. Last and B.A. Napier (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington)

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) faces many decisions regarding future remedial actions and waste disposal at the Hanford Site in southeast Washington State. To support these decisions, DOE initiated efforts to adapt and implement the Features, Events, and Processes (FEP) methodology for use in environmental assessments at Hanford. The international list of FEPs, compiled from nuclear waste disposal programs, was evaluated to develop a list of potentially relevant site-specific FEPs. A graphical tool called the Process Relationship Diagram (PRD) was created to assist in identifying the FEPs that are relevant to site-specific problems, and to illustrate the relationships among these factors. A prototype graphical user interface (GUI) and database have been designed to facilitate access to FEP information (including key references and related parametric databases) for development of site conceptual models, assessment and disposition of technical issues, and ultimately for supporting and defending waste management decisions. It is envisioned that the FEP database, organizational structure and GUI will evolve as the FEP methodology is implemented and more and more users access and use this capability.

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