Overview

The project continues, and requires more in-depth analysis.

In Sec. 6.1 , Robert Rafson, as the developer, continues to check out the preliminary cost estimates and the profitability of the project, and to assemble a project team.

In Sec. 6.2 , John Russell discusses the function of due diligence in the investigation stage leading toward a decision concerning a project. Russell gives a detailed analysis and checklist going through the analysis of the financial validity of the project. This chapter serves as a good checklist for the inexperienced developer.

In Sec. 6.3 , Noah Shlaes leads a discussion of all aspects of the appraisal process from the appraiser s point of view. The appraiser and developer have to work together closely from the start, or the appraisal may be misdirected.

In Secs. 6.4 through 6.8 , several technical experts present the different aspects of the environmental, engineering, and technical efforts. Because the developer must now know costs, the environmental engineer must do his or her investigations thoroughly, efficiently, and professionally. This involves a Phase II study, the proper design of sampling, analysis of samples, and interpretation of results. The complexities of the site geology and hydrology must be considered. These technical subjects are directed toward helping the developer understand the issues involved in dealing with the environmental engineer, laboratory, statistician, and geologist. Readers who wish to pursue technology issues in detail are directed to many textbooks on specific technical subjects.

In Sec. 6.7 , Christopher French discusses hydrology, which...