Gosford City Council Historical Water Quality Review & Analysis

FUTURE DIRECTIONS FOR WATER QUALITY / ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH MONITORING 4-8
• sampling frequency – dictated by objectives and characteristics of the parameter being measured;
• sampling numbers and precision – selected to detect changes, differences or effects based on the
parameter being measured;
• selection of measurement parameter – linked to the objective of the study and typically depends
on the environmental values of the water body. The parameters used to assess the water quality
can be either physical, chemical or biological;
• cost effectiveness – requires optimisation of the cost of the data acquisition with the statistical
power of the gathered data.
4.3.4 Field Sampling Program
The field sampling program identifies what the specific data requirements are, and outlines whether
the parameters are to be measured in the field or in the laboratory. Planning is required to ensure that
the sampling falls within the budget, without compromising to a detrimental extent on the statistical
power of the findings. The field sampling program also outlines the protocol to be followed in
sample collection, preservation, storage and transportation. The considerations for the field sampling
program are outlined in Figure 4.7.
Figure 4.7 Framework for Field Sampling Program (ANZECC/ARMCANZ, 2000)
The specific data requirements for the field sampling program are determined during the sampling
design phase.
The sample collection methods are determined based on the parameters identified during the
sampling design. The methods include hand sampling, autosampling, integrated sampling, real time
sampling (automated), field measurements, remote sensing and field observation. The equipment
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