A Modern Approach To Discover The Past Karen Garrard, PhD, RPA
Contrary to the popular image of the whip-wielding, wide-brimmed hat-wearing solo adventurer, today’s professional archaeologist uses scientific methods, multidisciplinary technology, and ethical practices. Modern archaeological investigations provide essential information for a deeper understanding of human activity and interaction with the landscape.
Currently, it is estimated that over 90% of archaeological excavations in the United States are undertaken due to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). This law requires federal agencies to consider the effects of their actions on historic properties, leading to archaeological investigations for projects requiring federal funding, permits, or other approvals. Metric’s experienced team recognizes how critical it is to deploy modern archeological techniques to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Public involvement is integral to any archaeological work, as well as a structured part of the Section 106 process. Archaeologists frequently look to local residents for historical information and research collaboration. Community groups, landowners, descendants, local historians, and Native American groups are just some of the many interested parties providing input in the exploration of our past. For example, in 2024, Metric archaeologists documented what was initially interpreted to be a simple circa 1940s residential site—the remains of a historic house with several outbuildings of indeterminate use in Boone County, Kentucky. One of the remains of the foundation was observed to have multiple interior divisions, however, its function was unclear. It was only through engagement with residents that it was determined the parcel the site was located on was once part of a larger horse farm originally established during the early 1800s and in operation throughout the 1970s. The mysterious multi-roomed outbuilding was a 16-stall horse barn.
Today’s technology is also playing an ever-increasing role in the discovery of our cultural heritage. Recently, Metric archaeologists developed a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) based predictive model to assess the likelihood of archaeological sites occurring within a study area. The model assigned a probability level for locations for the presence of archaeological resources. The GIS model parameters were based on slope, distance from mapped water sources, soil classifications, previous disturbance, historic transportation routes, mapped-documented structures, and previously recorded archaeological and historic architectural resources. The predictive model was used to assist in project planning and as a guide during subsequent archaeological fieldwork.
Each year, more archaeological sites are recorded across the United States, expanding our understanding of past human activity and interaction with the landscape. Despite this, threats to still as yet unrecorded sites remain—such factors as erosion, climate change, biological disturbances, as well as human actions including over-use, development, looting, and vandalism. Despite these challenges, firms like Metric are committed to preserving, documenting, and understanding our past using modern resources and public outreach and partnership. Since 1995, during Indiana Archaeology Month, archaeologists in the state have worked together to help raise awareness about local history, encourage stewardship, and provide opportunities for the public to become involved. During this month, the Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology (DHPA) coordinates with universities, museums, organizations, and individuals to host a variety of public archaeology events to encourage public awareness and appreciation of our rich cultural heritage.
Big News!
In every firm there are milestones that impact the life and future of that firm. Recently, Metric Environmental hit such a milestone. Director of Business Development, Paul Melillo CHMM, was welcomed into the leadership team by becoming a Principal Owner. Current owners Kenneth Beache, Jodi Banton, and Luella Beth Hillen unanimously agreed that Paul aligns well with Metric leadership, culture, and epitomizes the core values of Teamwork, Integrity, and Excellence.
Paul has worked in the environmental consulting field for more than 22 years and has brought extensive experience, energy, structure, and direction to business development operations at Metric since coming on in 2023. He excels in effective communication, building trust, connecting with partners, and collaborating with internal teams.
Metric is pleased to name Mr. Paul Melillo, CHMM, as a Principal Owner of the firm and we look forward to the continued impact of his dedication and expertise.
Cover Your Assets With A Phase l Environmental Site Assessment Joe Brodowski, LPG, CESCO
The process of real estate and business transactions can be troublesome. By identifying potential environmental issues before signing on the dotted line we can alleviate future headaches and liability that might occur post ownership. Metric has performed thousands of Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) for its clients. This comprehensive first step is meant to protect future landowners from potential environmental liability. Our Phase I ESA consists of an extensive records search of the property and surrounding area to identify historical documents that could identify potential environmental sources or processes leading to property contamination. Underground storage tanks (USTs) are a good example when it comes to potential environmental issues, especially with commercial/industrial properties. Metric’s review of property records can assist with identifying potential environmental hazards that may go unnoticed due to being buried, unrecognizable in their current condition, or encroaching from adjacent properties. Identifying potential liability is our goal when assisting clients with property transaction screening and assessments.
The Phase I ESA process includes identifying Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) through the review of State and Federal government databases, review of historical aerial photography, interviews with property knowledgeable individuals, and completing a thorough site-walk. Our site-walks includes thorough documentation of current property conditions and potential or existing environmental contamination liabilities.
The results of a Phase I ESA, completed using the ASTM Standard (E1527-21), provide future landowners/lessees with multiple avenues of liability coverage under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Metric has helped numerous clients manage and mitigate various environmental issues prior to property acquisition, through institutional controls (State and Federal), third party compensation, documentation of waived liability, as well as negotiation and remediation of identified environmental contaminants.
The identifying and understanding of RECs, controlled recognized environmental conditions (CREC), historical recognized environmental conditions (HRECs), and potential vapor encroachment conditions (VEC) associated with a property are crucial to protecting property investments. The results of a properly conducted Phase ESA can provide further understanding of potential liabilities with property purchases as well as identify potential sources of environmental contamination.
Recommendations for a more rigorous Phase II ESA can expand the understanding of potential liabilities, identified in the Phase I ESA, through on-site media (soil, groundwater, vapor, and/or waste) sampling.
Undertaking the acquisition of a new property can be a tedious process in and of itself. Do not let avoidable issues come back to haunt your projects. Identifying potential environmental concerns as part of initial project steps can reduce and prevent future liabilities. Metric’s teams are experienced and fully capable of reviewing, assessing, and examining projects areas to determine how your project’s footprint could affect human health and the environment.
Welcome New Team Member!
Latondra joins our Louisville Office with a rich and diverse background in urban and regional planning, real estate management, and public service. She holds a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Urban and Regional Planning and Development from the University of Louisville, where she also earned her bachelor’s and associate degrees.
She brings over two decades of experience working with the Louisville Metro Government, where she served in various planning and real estate roles. Most recently, she managed Metro’s real estate inventory, overseeing acquisitions, dispositions, and property compliance—including environmental covenants and brownfield remediation funding. Her career also includes leadership in zoning, land development, and community planning, as well as service in the U.S. Army.
Wide Range Of Services, Comprehensive Solutions
Metric Environmental provides a wide range of services to provide comprehensive solutions for diverse client needs, to navigate complex environmental regulations, to perform thorough assessments, to develop sustainable strategies, and to minimize risk across various industries and project types. We pride ourselves as a one-stop shop, who work to foster trust, and effectively address the environmental challenges that your agency, business or organization faces.
Did you know that you can download our CAPABILITIES for each of our Service Solution Areas on our Website? Simply, click the link to the service below and you will see an option to download at the webpage.
Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Safety
Our range of services allows us to cater to the unique requirements of diverse industries and projects. We can develop holistic strategies for environmental sustainability that align business goals with ecological health. Furthermore, collecting more comprehensive data through various methods like sampling, surveys, and advanced modeling leads to more accurate assessments and informed decision-making. Our range of services also allows us to coordinate different project components and manage subconsultants, ensuring efficient and successful project delivery.
We are driven to provide unrivaled quality of service and a unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship in the communities within which we serve.