TRIM.FaTE (download model) is a spatially explicit, compartmental mass balance model that describes the movement and transformation of pollutants over time, through a user-defined, bounded system that includes both biotic and abiotic compartments. Outputs include pollutant concentrations in multiple environmental media and biota, and also biota and pollutant intakes (e.g., mg/kg-day), all of which provide exposure estimates for ecological receptors (i.e., plants and animals). The output concentrations from TRIM.FaTE can also be used as inputs to a human ingestion exposure model, such as TRIM.Expo-ingestion, to estimate human exposures.

Significant features of TRIM.FaTE include: (1) a fully coupled multimedia model; (2) user flexibility in defining scenarios, in terms of the links among compartments, and number and types of compartments, as appropriate for the application spatial and temporal scale; (3) transparent, user-accessible algorithm and input library that allows the user to review and modify how environmental transfer and transformation processes are modeled; (4) a full accounting of all of the pollutant as it moves among environmental compartments during simulation; (5) an embedded procedure to characterize uncertainty and variability; and (6) the capability to provide exposure estimates for ecological receptors.

In addition to external peer review and publications at external scientific meetings, TRIM.FaTE has undergone SAB review.

In its current version, the model provides an important alternative to other currently available multimedia models. Feedback on model performance and usability are encouraged to inform our uses of the model and help guide further model refinement.

TRIM.FaTE Current Documents

• TRIM.FaTE Technical Support Document
• TRIM.FaTE Users Guide
• TRIM.FaTE Evaluation Report
• TRIM Historical Documents
• TRIM.FaTE Publications and Presentations

Example areas being considered for model or library refinement:

• Development of GIS based GUI for "point & click" definition of parcel coordinates.
• Additional flexibility in design of sensitivity analysis.
• Troubleshooting assistance.
• Development of sets of library objects for a set of ecosystems.
• .. many others...