Environmental Toxicology

Understanding how environmental stressors affect human health and ecological systems is the foundation of environmental toxicology. Copperhead evaluates those impacts to support informed environmental decisions. We apply rigorous risk assessment methods to real-world questions about exposure, effects, and ecosystem protection.

The Copperhead Green Team

An example of our work is the management of harmful algal blooms. Ponds, lakes, and rivers can become prone to blooms in warm weather, putting humans and wildlife at risk. Our ecotoxicology professionals—aka the Copperhead Green Team—study cyanobacteria and algae in our Paint Lick, Kentucky, laboratory. They culture specimens and test algaecides to understand bloom behavior and treatment efficacy. Partnering with certified applicators, Copperhead develops targeted treatment plans that eliminate harmful blooms while protecting fish, aquatic insects, and beneficial algae.

Science-based approach

We apply a science-based approach throughout our work—from developing risk assessment frameworks for unleaded aviation fuel to supporting utilities with ongoing coal ash assessments to evaluating herbicide use near rare and endangered species. And above all, the well-being of communities and ecosystems drives our work.