Work from the monitoring plan
Identify the permit, outfalls, collection triggers and the parameters required. Keep event-based requirements with the field instructions rather than assuming one sampling approach suits every project.
Set the analytical details
State the analyte list, fractions, methods, units and limits. Metals, nutrients, solids, oil and grease or other parameters need their own defined scopes.
Prepare for collection
Arrange bottles, preservation, chain of custody and delivery in advance. A short-notice event is easier to manage when the analytical requirements are already settled.
Preserve event context
Record location, time and the event information required by the monitoring program. Keep any sampling limitations visible in the project record.
Related testing & guidance
Technical & service references
Vanguard water-testing menuEPA: Clean Water Act method questionsEPA: Drinking-water analytical methodsSource review: November 8, 2026. The agreed method and project scope govern the testing.