Be it a prehistoric flint-striker for starting fires, a wrench for repairing an engine, or a computer model for simulating ground-water contaminant transport, tool making is one of the paramount traits distinguishing humans from other species. Progress witnessed in most disciplines, the sciences in particular, greatly depends on developing “tools of the trade.” While many environmental disciplines have benefited greatly from development of modern tools, the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) has lagged noticeably. Rigorous tools, techniques, and approaches are needed if NEPA is to achieve its full potential.