19
additional data would add significantly to the overall confidence in the assessment results.
—Discuss science policy judgments or default assumptions used to bridge information gaps, and the basis for these assumptions.
Ecological risk assessment includes three primary phases (problem
formulation, analysis,
and risk characterization) (Figure 1).
Within problem formulation, important areas include identifying goals and assessment endpoints,
preparing the conceptual model, and developing an analysis plan. The analysis phase involves evaluating exposure to stressors and the relationship between stressor levels and ecological effects. In risk characterization, key elements are estimating risk through integration of exposure
and stressor-response profiles, describing risk by discussing lines of evidence and determining ecological consequences, and preparing a report.
The interface between risk assessors and risk managers at the beginning and end of the risk assessment is critical for ensuring that the results of the assessment can be used to support a management decision.
Share with your friends: 
