Abstract
This paper discusses general approaches for evaluating the utility and manner of conducting background analyses in soil for ecological risk assessments. The types and sources of background data are discussed, and advantages and disadvantages of using literature-based versus site-specific background data are presented. The value of background evaluations is discussed with regard to the goals and objectives for a project. A comparison of literature-based ecological soil screening levels with generic metal background concentrations is presented to illustrate a typical problem in incorporating background data in ecological risk assessments, which is that many generic background concentrations are higher than ecological screening levels. This brings into question both the relevance of ecological screening levels and generic background levels. These issues are discussed along with cost-benefit considerations in an attempt to provide recommendations for determining the most appropriate type of background evaluation to conduct at a given site.
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