Recommendations for Sampling Methods

P.T. Weiss, A.J. Erickson, J.S. Gulliver, R.M. Hozalski, O. Mohseni, and W.R. Herb

Sampling methods will vary based on the goals and budget of the assessment program. In the case of synthetic runoff testing or monitoring, the number of storm events sampled and the number of samples collected during storm events (synthetic or natural) will also vary depending the assessment goals. For most assessment programs that use synthetic runoff testing or monitoring to assess pollutant removal effectiveness, however, it is generally recommended that:

  1. in situ pollutant sensors be used whenever possible,
  2. grab samples or automatic samples be collected promptly for pollutants or characteristics that change rapidly (e.g., temperature, bacteria, DO),
  3. flow-weighted composite samples be collected by automatic samplers, unless there is a specific need to measure pollutant concentration over time.
  4. proper sample collection and handling techniques be followed to ensure representative samples and avoid contamination.

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