Overview of cost estimating for abandoned mine lands and hazardous materials cleanup projects

This publication provides information on the procedures and activities associated with cost estimating for environmental response projects. Costs estimates are used to help define the magnitude of the project and accuracy of the total expense, depending on the stage of a project. This publication is intended to assist environmental professionals with determining the level of accuracy and detail required for each project estimate. The goals of this reference are to provide an understanding of the need for cost estimates, to improve the consistency of cost estimates developed in support of abandoned mine lands and hazardous materials site evaluations and remedy selections, and to establish classifications that define the level of confidence in the estimate at various stages within a cleanup project. Four different cost estimating methods are described for consideration. Utilization of this guidance will assist the environmental professional in developing a reproducible estimate appropriate for the phase of a project.