Category Archives: Phase I ESA

Zooming in on topographic maps

  Topographic maps, also known as topo maps, typically display elevation characteristics, natural and structural features as well as hydrography and infrastructure data in a large-scale format. Essentially, topo maps provide a third dimension to an otherwise flat map. Topo … Continue reading

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New Jersey case highlights need for environmental due diligence in residential transactions

  Image: Sean O’Flaherty In recent years it has become clear that home buyers need to be just as mindful of conducting environmental due diligence as commercial property owners. As we develop and redevelop properties, determining prior uses is crucial … Continue reading

Posted in Chain of title, Groundwater, Phase I ESA | 2 Comments

ASTM and the development of environmental standards

  ASTM International, previously known as American Society for Testing and Materials, is an organization charged with facilitating the development of voluntary consensus standards. Although “American” is at the root of the organization’s name, over 12,000 standards have been created … Continue reading

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Researching environmental activity/use limitations (AULs)

  Environmental activity/use limitations (AULs) are legal restrictions filed for two main reasons: The prevention of exposure to environmental contamination and the management of public health and environmental risks associated with a property that has been contaminated. It is important … Continue reading

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Understanding the basics of aerial photography: History

  Aerial photography is one of the best tools anyone, especially environmental professionals, can use to determine land use changes over time. In some cases, viewing aerial photographs can be the only way to identify the history of a site. … Continue reading

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Video demo: Point search vs. boundary search

  Have you ever wondered why there are multiple search buffers displayed in ASTM radius maps? Read this post to find out why. When conducting ESAs on large or irregular-shaped properties, it is important that you search the entire target … Continue reading

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