Assess Contaminant Dispersion for Effective Water Quality Management

We provide expert assessment of contaminant dispersion in aquatic environments, supporting industries such as mining, pulp and paper, wastewater treatment, and power generation. With advanced modeling tools, field investigations, and regulatory expertise, we help clients understand the fate and transport of effluent discharges, thermal plumes, and pollutants. Our scientifically defensible studies ensure compliance with water quality standards while enabling informed decision-making to protect aquatic ecosystems.
Service Specifics

Our Contaminant Dispersion Assessment Services

See how we support clients with contaminant dispersion assessments to meet regulatory requirements and protect water resources.

We use advanced models such as CORMIX™ and Visual Plumes to assess dilution of effluent discharges, define mixing zones, and provide recommendations to achieve maximum dilution.

We conduct dye tracing studies and modeling to evaluate effluent and thermal plume behavior, providing clear delineation for compliance and management decisions.

We determine a waterbody’s assimilative capacity and develop Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) in accordance with Section 303(d) of the U.S. Clean Water Act to ensure pollutants remain within acceptable limits.

We analyze waterbody currents, circulation, and stratification, combining field data and modeling to predict spatial and temporal distributions of physical, chemical, and biological parameters.

We deploy state-of-the-art equipment, including flow meters, acoustic Doppler profilers, thermistors, and YSI data loggers, to validate modeling results and provide robust, site-specific insights.

The Competitive Edge of a Nature-Positive Approach

Our new Verdantix research study benchmarks North American industries on Sustainability practices. Fresh off the press!

Assessment of Contaminant Dispersion FAQs

It is the evaluation of how effluent, pollutants, and thermal discharges spread and mix within aquatic environments, using field data and modeling to predict their behavior and impact.

Mixing zone analysis determines how quickly effluent dilutes after discharge and whether concentrations meet regulatory water quality standards at the boundary of the mixing zone.

Industries such as mining, pulp and paper, wastewater treatment, and power generation often require contaminant dispersion studies to evaluate effluent and thermal discharges.

We combine numerical models with field-collected data from instruments such as ADCPs, drogues, thermistors, and flow meters to ensure scientifically defensible results.

In the U.S., assessments are often conducted under the Clean Water Act and state-level permitting requirements, while similar frameworks exist in Canada for aquatic discharge compliance.

Explore Our Water & Ecology Expertise

Related Resources

Hydrotechnical Engineering Service Sheet
Sep 24, 2025
Hydrotechnical Engineering Service Sheet
Read More

Related Training Courses

No Training Available.