The goal of The Pershing/Lovelock Brownfields Initiative is to clear underutilized or vacant properties that are planned for new reuses or redevelopment through due diligence and planning processes. Specifically, funding is made available to conduct Phase I and Phase II Environmental Assessments (ESAs), geotechnical engineering, reuse planning, cleanup planning and, in some cases, feasibility planning.

Phase I and Phase II ESAs are important first steps in clearing properties that are planned for reuse and redevelopment in the City of Lovelock and Pershing County. A Phase I ESA is conducted to identify any environmental impairment or conditions and involves records research, interviews, and onsite observations. The Phase I ESA provides information to provide liability protection to property owners and determine if further assessment of the property is needed where there may be a potential environmental impairment or condition.

A Phase II ESA, which involves environmental sampling may be performed to further assess the site. The sampling may include soil, groundwater and soil gas sampling for contaminates and in some cases may involve asbestos and LBP surveys. If samples are found to have higher than acceptable contamination levels (according to state or federal standards), cleanup of the site may be necessary. In most all cases, the assessment process is able to document that a site has not been impacted thereby removing any perceived environmental road blocks to redevelopment without the need for further action. If cleanup is required additional State and Federal cleanup grants may be available to provide cleanup funding if specific criteria is met.