Lunch-and-Learn: Ecological Risk Assessments – What They Are and Their Role in Tiering Under Connecticut’s RBCRs (Wednesday, October 21, 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 15:30:00 GMT

What happens when a contaminated site presents exposure concerns for plants and wildlife, not just people? Ecological risk assessment provides the framework for evaluating how contaminants in soil, sediment, surface water, and other environmental media may affect ecological receptors and habitats.

SWEP-CT invites its members to attend a lunch-and-learn session with Jessica Landaverde, PhD and Kate Engler, PhD, DABT, LEP from Loureiro Engineering Associates, Inc. on the basics of ecological risk assessment and its role in environmental remediation.

This presentation will provide an overview of the following elements of ecological risk assessment:

Development of a conceptual site model
Identification and screening of constituents of concern
Hazard quotients/hazard index calculations
Refinement of risk evaluations and key management decision points

The presentation will also review how ecological risk assessment fits within Connecticut’s Release Based Cleanup Regulations, in particular:

Scoping Ecological Assessments – contents and requirements
Screening Ecological Assessments – contents and requirements
Site-Specific Ecological Risk Assessments – contents and requirements

Whether you are new to ecological risk assessment or looking for a refresher on its role in environmental projects, this session will provide a useful introduction to the science and regulatory considerations behind protecting ecological resources at contaminated sites.

Jessica Landaverde is a senior scientist at Loureiro Engineering Associates where she has been involved with various remediation projects, including those involving ecological risk assessment. She holds a B.S. in biology and environmental health sciences from Western Kentucky University and a Ph.D. in molecular biosciences, focused in ecotoxicology, from Middle Tennessee State University.

Kate Engler is Vice President of the Environmental Division at Loureiro Engineering Associates, where she leads a talented team of scientists and geologists focused on using environmental assessment and remediation to deliver client-centered solutions. Her expertise includes human health and ecological risk assessment, toxicology, environmental remediation, and regulatory compliance under various state and federal programs. She holds a Ph.D. in environmental toxicology and a B.S. in environmental chemistry from Cornell University. She is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology and a Licensed Environmental Professional in the State of Connecticut.

SWEP-CT Quarterly Social (Wednesday, November 04, 2026)

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

We’re excited to invite our members to our fourth quarterly networking social, hosted at the GZA offices in Glastonbury, CT. As the seasons change, so will our venue. Host locations will rotate for future events.

Join us for another relaxed and welcoming evening focused on meaningful conversations, new connections, and continued community-building. Whether you’re looking to grow your network, reconnect with familiar faces, or simply enjoy a refreshing break after the workday, this gathering is the perfect way to have fun and connect!

Bring your curiosity, your business cards, and your best conversation starters as we enjoy the fall season and a fun and memorable evening together. A variety of light snacks and beverages will be served.

Please be kind enough to register so we have a headcount for the get-together.

Not a member? Join or renew today!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Parking is available in the parking lot behind the 95 Glastonbury Boulevard building.

GZA offices are on the third floor of the 95 building. Take the elevators or stairs from the lobby to the 3^rd floor, and take a left down the hallway. GZA offices will be towards the end of the hall, on the left.

SWEP-CT upcoming events

Lunch-and-Learn: Ecological Risk Assessments – What They Are and Their Role in Tiering Under Connecticut’s RBCRs (Wednesday, October 21, 2026)

SWEP-CT Quarterly Social (Wednesday, November 04, 2026)