How do you monitor and report water quality?

1 Sampling methods

The first step in monitoring water quality is to collect representative samples of water from different locations, depths, and times. Sampling methods vary depending on the type and purpose of the water source, such as surface water, groundwater, drinking water, wastewater, or stormwater. Some common sampling methods include grab sampling, where a single sample is taken at a specific point and time; composite sampling, where multiple samples are mixed together to represent an average condition; and continuous sampling, where samples are taken at regular intervals over a period of time. Sampling methods should follow standard protocols and procedures to ensure accuracy, consistency, and safety.

2 Analytical methods

The next step in monitoring water quality is to analyze the samples for various parameters, such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, conductivity, nutrients, metals, bacteria, and toxins. Analytical methods can be performed in the field or in the laboratory, depending on the equipment, resources, and accuracy required. Some common analytical methods include colorimetric methods, where the color change of a chemical reaction indicates the concentration of a substance; titration methods, where the amount of a solution added to a sample until a color change occurs indicates the concentration of a substance; and instrumental methods, where a device measures the electrical, optical, or magnetic properties of a sample.

3 Quality assurance

The third step in monitoring water quality is to ensure that the data collected and analyzed are reliable, valid, and precise. Quality assurance involves checking and controlling the sources of error and uncertainty in the sampling and analytical methods, such as contamination, calibration, interference, and human error. Quality assurance can include using blanks, duplicates, standards, and spikes to verify the performance of the methods; following quality control charts and procedures to identify and correct any problems; and documenting and reporting any deviations, limitations, or assumptions in the methods.

4 Data management

The fourth step in monitoring water quality is to store, organize, and process the data in a way that facilitates analysis and interpretation. Data management involves using software, databases, and spreadsheets to record, sort, filter, and manipulate the data; applying statistical methods and techniques to summarize, compare, and test the data; and using graphical methods and tools to visualize and display the data. Data management should follow data quality objectives and criteria to ensure that the data are relevant, complete, consistent, and accurate.

5 Data interpretation

The fifth step in monitoring water quality is to draw conclusions and insights from the data based on the objectives and context of the monitoring program. Data interpretation involves using scientific knowledge and principles to explain the patterns, trends, and relationships in the data; using regulatory standards and guidelines to assess the compliance and suitability of the water quality; and using environmental indicators and indices to evaluate the ecological health and status of the water source. Data interpretation should consider the sources of variability, uncertainty, and bias in the data and the methods.

6 Data communication

The final step in monitoring water quality is to report and share the data and the findings with the relevant stakeholders and audiences, such as clients, regulators, managers, and the public. Data communication involves using written, oral, and visual formats and media to present and explain the data and the results; using clear, concise, and accurate language and terminology to convey the messages and recommendations; and using feedback and evaluation methods to improve the effectiveness and impact of the communication. Data communication should follow ethical and professional standards and principles to ensure transparency, credibility, and accountability.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?