Requirements for submitting cleanup site data

Working on site cleanups that need Ecology's input or review?

Enter your electronic environmental monitoring data into the Environmental Information Management (EIM) system. This is our public database of environmental monitoring data for air, water, soil, sediment, aquatic animals, and plants.

What is EIM and how do I use it?

EIM is our public database of environmental monitoring data for air, water, soil, sediment, aquatic animals, and plants.

Please go to the EIM website for instructions  on creating an EIM account and submitting your environmental monitoring data. You will be assigned an EIM Data Coordinator who will help you with your submittal.  You can also send us comments and questions about EIM by using our online form.

Does this requirement apply to all cleanups?

Yes, it applies to all upland cleanups (those happening on land or in groundwater) and sediment cleanups (those happening in riverbeds and seabeds). You must submit all environmental monitoring data supporting your report.

What if I forget to send my monitoring data?

• We will consider your report incomplete until you submit your monitoring data electronically through EIM, also in "print," as part of your report (such as your Remedial Investigation Report or Feasibility Study). We will notify you of any missing information in writing, but this could delay a detailed review. Make sure your report includes all information in the applicable checklist found on our "Required Information for cleanup reports" page.

• We must wait until we have received and reviewed your data in both formats before potentially issuing a No Further Action determination.

How long will it take to process my data?

Please allow three weeks to process your data after we’ve received it. To shorten our processing time, please ensure that your data is submitted correctly by working with your EIM Data Coordinator on your submittal and following guidance available in the EIM Help Center.

What are sampling data and how does Ecology use them?

When samples of air, water, soil, sediment, aquatic animals, and plants from cleanup sites are analyzed, the data are assembled into reports that help project managers make cleanup site decisions. The data can tell us which contaminants are impacting the site, how far contamination has traveled, and what risks contaminants may pose to human health. Data can also tell us if cleanups are still protecting your health and the environment after a cleanup action is in place.

Anyone can access the EIM database at any time by going to EIM Search.

Where can I find help with EIM?

Visit our online EIM Help Center or contact us using our online form.