ERD is considered a pioneer and leader in developing new means to assess water quality. ERD's philosophy is that basic and applied research go hand in hand, and that each strengthens the other. With four experimental laboratories situated along watersheds, three of which are in the United States and one in Costa Rica, ERD provides contractual work service for industry as well as state and federal agencies. Basic research programs are supported by major foundations and federal agencies. Educational outreach is another one of ERD's goals.
Environmental research is crucial, but so is sharing the information the research provides.