SAMPLE & ANALYSIS PLAN
Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring: Descriptive
Project Title Here
Y
Group A:
Laboratory and
Environmental
Assessment Division
3150 NW 229th, Ave.,
Suite 150
Hillsboro, OR 97124
Phone: (503) 693-5700
Fax: (503) 693-4999
www.deq.state.or.us
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
A1. Title and Approval Sheet
Project Manager
Date
Watershed Council Coordinator
Date
Monitoring Partner
Date
Last Update xx/xx/20XX
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Web pub#: XX-XXX-XXX
Steve Hanson / DEQ Volunteer Monitoring Specialist
Date
Chris Redman / DEQ Quality Assurance Officer (QAO)
Date
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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A2. Table of Contents
GROUP A:
A1.
A2.
A3.
A4.
A5.
A6.
A7.
A8.
A9.
TITLE AND APPROVAL SHEET......................................................................................................................... I
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................................... III
DISTRIBUTION LIST .......................................................................................................................................1
PROJECT/TASK ORGANIZATION .....................................................................................................................1
PURPOSE STATEMENT/PROBLEM DEFINITION/BACKGROUND........................................................................1
PROJECT TASK/DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................................1
MEASUREMENT QUALITY OBJECTIVES .........................................................................................................2
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS AND CERTIFICATION ............................................................................................2
DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS:.................................................................................................................2
GROUP B:
B1.
B2.
B3.
B4.
B5.
B6.
B7.
B8.
B9.
B10.
ASSESSMENT AND OVERSIGHT ................................................................................................6
ASSESSMENT AND RESPONSE ACTIONS .........................................................................................................6
REPORTS TO MANAGER .................................................................................................................................6
GROUP D:
D1.
D2.
D3.
DATA GENERATION AND ACQUISITION ................................................................................3
SAMPLING PROCESS DESIGN .........................................................................................................................3
SAMPLING METHOD REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................4
SAMPLE HANDLING AND CUSTODY PROCEDURES .........................................................................................4
ANALYTICAL METHODS REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................................4
QUALITY CONTROL REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................................4
INSTRUMENT/EQUIPMENT TESTING, INSPECTION, AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS ...............................5
INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION AND FREQUENCY ..............................................................................................5
INSPECTION/ACCEPTANCE REQUIREMENTS...................................................................................................5
DATA ACQUISITION REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................................5
DATA MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................................................................5
GROUP C:
C1.
C2.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT ........................................................................................................... I
DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY.......................................................................................6
DATA REVIEW, VALIDATION, AND VERIFICATION .........................................................................................6
VALIDATION AND VERIFICATION METHODS ..................................................................................................6
RECONCILIATION WITH DATA QUALITY OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................6
List of Tables
Table A–1 Key Personnel ............................................................................................................................ 1
Table A–2 Gant Schedule ............................................................................................................................ 2
Table A–3 Revision History ........................................................................................................................ 3
Table A–4 Controlled Documents ............................................................................................................... 3
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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A3. Distribution List
Include a list of all the individuals and their organizations who will receive a copy of the plan.
A4. Project/Task Organization
In a table give information for individuals or organizations that will be leaders in the project. Example
below:
Table A–1 Key Personnel
Name
Project Title/Responsibility
Contact
Project Manager
Sample collection
Sample Analysis
Data Clerk/Data Management
Data Analysis and Presentation
Report Writing
Steve Hanson
DEQ Vol. Mon. Specialist
503.229.5449
A5. Purpose Statement/Problem Definition/Background
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Clearly state the purpose of your monitoring. For example: The purpose of this monitoring is to
characterize summer baseline water quality conditions for dissolved oxygen and temperature in the
Our River watershed.
Identify how your data will by used and by whom. For Example: The data will be used by the Our
River Watershed Council to prioritize basins where restoration activities should occur. The Oregon
DEQ will use the data to assess whether the Our River is meeting water quality criteria to protect
beneficial uses.
Give a brief description of your watershed and any important background information that is relevant
to this plan.
A6. Project Task/Description

Give a very brief outline of what you will be doing: what sampled, where sampled, kind of samples
taken, conditions to be sampled, how data will be analyzed. For Example:
The Our River Watershed Council will collect continuous temperature and dissolved oxygen
data in the Our R. Samples will be collected at major landscape changes and at the mouths of
major tributaries at a total of 6 sites. Dissolved oxygen sampling will alternate between
morning and afternoon sampling. Summary statistics for the continuous temperature (seven
day maximum moving average and daily differences in min and max temps) and dissolved
oxygen (will be compared between locations and against designated water quality criteria.
Summary statistics of interest for temperature will be the maximum seven day moving average
and differences between daily minimum and maximum temperatures. Dissolved oxygen
summary statistics will be number of samples outside of water quality criteria and average
morning or afternoon concentrations.
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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Provide a timetable for the project. For Example:
Example Timetable:
Table A–2 Gant Schedule
Months for year 2005 - 2007
Tasks to be completed
Sampling Planning and revision
1
2
3
x
x
x
4
Temperature logger quality control testing
x
Continuous temperature data collection
x
5
Data analysis and reporting
x
x
x
7
8
9
10
11
12
x
x
Weekly dissolved oxygen and temperature testing
Data entry
6
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Etc.

Include any constraints that might limit your ability to complete the project as defined. Consider
financial, volunteer time, land owner site access and others.
A7. Measurement Quality Objectives
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Data quality levels are defined in the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP
(http://www.deq.state.or.us/lab/wqm/DEQ04-LAB-0047-QAPP.pdf ). Select what data quality level
will be your target for your parameters. If you have parameters which are not on the list then you
will need to develop your own criteria. Contact the DEQ Volunteer Monitoring Specialist with
questions.
For representativeness define what conditions your sampling will be characterizing: ambient, runoff,
morning, summer, etc.
If there are any elements of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP Measurement Quality
Objectives that you do not wish to commit to, then you should define your exceptions here.
A8. Training Requirements and Certification
Groups participating in the DEQ program should be trained by DEQ or explain here who will provide
training.
A9. Documentation and Records:
Describe how documents will be controlled and revised. Use Table A–1to record the changes made to
each SAP revision. If you do not know sampling schedules or other variables at the time You may use
addendums to the SAP to document subsequent planning of split sampling events. List the sampling
dates, sample locations, analytical parameters, and key personnel in the addendum as an appendix to the
SAP.
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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Table A–3 Revision History
Revision
1.1
Date
9/16/06
Changes
Added Revision History table. Added captions to tables and
list of tables to “Table of Contents”.
Author
Chris Redman
Define where documents and records relevant to your project will be kept and for how long. Example
table below
Table A–4 Controlled Documents
Document or Record Name and Description
Storage Location
Storage Time
ODEQ Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP)- DEQ04LAB-0047-QAPP project description and assurance
procedures.
DEQ Internet Page
5 years
Our Sampling Analysis Plan- specific sampling information
for each groups activities.
DEQ Laboratory &
Our R. WC office
5 years
OWEB Water Quality Monitoring Guidebook ODEQ
Laboratory Mode of Operations Manual- Methods manual
Our R. WC office
5 years
Equipment Notebooks - records of quality control checks,
calibrations and maintenance.
DEQ equipment boxes
5 years
Group B:
DATA GENERATION AND ACQUISITION
B1. Sampling Process Design
From this section a reader should be able to quickly identify how many of the different parameter tests
will be needed for your project.
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Define the logic for your sampling plan including how you are selecting the intended sampling sites;
what parameters are to be collected at each site; when samples are to be collected. Examples
include: Locations- mouth of major tribs, landuse boundaries, random; Parameters- why certain test
selected; Time of sample- consider daily fluctuation of some parameters, storm events, time of
beneficial use like fecal bacteria during swimming season, or salmon spawning and temperature.
How will you identify new sites over the life of the project if you plan to add new stations?
If not covered in first bullet, identify any environmental conditions that will determine when you
sample—rain events, stream flows, seasons.
How will your access to sites be limited—private property, weather conditions, etc.
If the exact locations are known for your sites include a table with the following information: Station
Description, parameters tested, and DEQ LASAR station number if available or latitude and
longitude (Select “A Map” from the DEQ web page http://deq12.deq.state.or.us/lasar2/default.aspx
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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for LASAR stations and to get a latitude and longitude by setting a location.) Please note you will
need to send in a latitude and longitude as well as an image showing where on a map each station
that does not have a LASAR number is located.
B2. Sampling Method Requirements
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How will you collect samples? (sample container from bridges, wading, from boat, etc.)
Check table in section B2 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP. If there are any
differences in sample collection containers, holding times or preservation for your project specify the
changes.
For continuous monitoring equipment, what results recording interval will you use? (1 hour, 30
minutes, etc.)
If you will be compositing samples that aren’t defined in the DEQ QAPP, define how you will
composite samples.
B3. Sample Handling and Custody Procedures
 How will samples be labeled in the field (should include location, date, time, type of sample,
samplers name)? If the information will be recorded on a field sheet you may wish to reference the
form here and append it to the end of the SAP. Example routine ambient monitoring field forms
(Figure 1).
 Where appropriate, how will samples be handled and transported to the laboratory?
 Describe procedures for keeping track of what samples came from what site.
 If you have a chain of custody form for sending samples to a lab, refer to it here. You may wish to
append the form to the end of the sheet, example chain of custody form (Figure 2).
 For continuous monitors, identify the maximum time before the units will be retrieved and the data
downloaded.
B4. Analytical Methods Requirements

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
Review the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP for analytical requirements and the OWEB
Water Quality Monitoring Guidebook. If you are doing the standard methods defined in the ODEQ
QAPP, please list the methods, where the sample will be analyzed (field or lab) and reference the
ODEQ QAPP DEQ04-LAB-0047-QAPP.
If you will be doing different methods than defined in those documents you will need to give a
complete description or reference for the alternative methods. Provide the following information:
o List analytical methods for each parameter.
o What equipment will be used to make the measurement?
o Will the analysis happen in the field or lab?
o When using documented standards refer to them and give a reference where the information can
be found. If the methods are not easily found by the reference attach a copy of the methods.
How will you dispose of processed samples?
B5. Quality Control Requirements
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

Review the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP for quality control requirements. If you
are following these protocols list the quality control tests you’ll use (duplicates, accuracy checks,
splits, etc.) and reference the ODEQ QAPP DEQ04-LAB-0047-QAPP.
If you will be doing different quality control procedures than defined in DEQ QAPP, then provide a
complete description or reference for the alternative procedures. Define your quality control tests
and the frequency of each type of quality control test.
If you are using an outside laboratory include or reference their quality control procedures.
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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Regardless of your methods, describe what you will do if quality control results show a sampling
problem. (Ex. Will you retest, contact the manufacturer, contact the DEQ Vol. Mon. Specialist, etc.)
B6. Instrument/Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance Requirements
Review the maintenance and inspection table in the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP and
reference it if you agree to follow these procedures. If you wish to make any changes please describe the
changes in this section.
B7. Instrument Calibration and Frequency
Review the Instrument Calibration and Frequency table in section B7 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER
MONITORING QAPP and reference it if you agree to follow these procedures. If you wish to make any
changes please describe the changes in this section.
B8. Inspection/Acceptance Requirements
Specify where you will keep your equipment and who will be responsible for keeping the equipment in
working order and supplies available.
Review the supply and Inspection/Acceptance Requirements in section B8 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER
MONITORING QAPP and reference it if you agree to follow these procedures. If you wish to make any
changes please describe the changes in this section.
B9. Data Acquisition Requirements
Review the Data Acquisition and Requirements section B9 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING
QAPP and reference it if you agree to follow these procedures. If you have other data needs, please
describe the additions or changes in this section.
B10.
Data Management
Review the Data Management section B10 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP. Include
the following information to document your internal data management:
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Trace the path of your data from recording the information in the field to its analysis and
presentation.
How will you data be stored? (Field sheets, electronically)
Identify who is responsible for the data for each step going from field to data storage.
Include a description, example or reference of the electronic format of your data including metadata
(data about site location and date).
Include a list or reference a list of the data fields that will be stored in your data.
How will data be checked for completeness, reasonableness, transcription errors and calculation
errors?
Where will electronic data be stored and backed up?
What type of computer hardware and software will be used to store and manage data?
Clearly define or reference how data submitted to the DEQ will be formatted, what will be included
and when it will be submitted. Be sure to include an image of a map showing where stations are that
do not have an existing LASAR number.
What software will be used to analyze the data?
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Group C:
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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ASSESSMENT AND OVERSIGHT
C1. Assessment and Response Actions
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
Review the Assessment and Response Actions section C1 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER
MONITORING QAPP and reference it if you agree to follow these procedures. Describe how
(actions or processes) you will correct problems identified during the assessments. If you have other
assessment and response action needs please describe the additions or changes in this section by
answering the following questions:
Discuss how you will evaluate field, lab and data management performance (how will you determine
accuracy, precision, representativeness, completeness and comparability).
Identify any other audits of volunteer performance, equipment or data quality that will be done.
C2. Reports to Management

Identify how the results of quality control tests and other project assessments will be reported
including to whom the information will be reported and when. Review the Reports to Management
section C2 of the the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP.
Group D:
DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY
D1. Data Review, Validation, and Verification
Review the Data Review, Validation and Verification section D1 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER
MONITORING QAPP and reference it if you agree to follow these procedures for accepting, rejecting or
qualifying data. If you have other assessment needs please describe your additions or changes.
D2. Validation and Verification Methods
Review the Validation and Verification section D2 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER MONITORING QAPP
and reference it if you agree to follow these procedures. If you have other assessment needs please
describe your additions or changes to the QAPP section D2 by answering the following questions:
 Who will review field data sheets and how and when will they do it?
 Who will review data entered into the database and how and when will they do it?
 Where applicable, who will review laboratory results and how and when will they do it?
 Who will determine the data quality levels for data? How and when will they do it?
D3. Reconciliation with Data Quality Objectives
Review the Reconciliation with Data Quality Objectives section D3 of the ODEQ VOLUNTEER
MONITORING QAPP and reference it if you agree to follow these procedures. If you have other needs
please describe your additions or changes to the QAPP section D3 by answering the following questions:
 Define what you will do with data that falls outside of the target precision and accuracy from your
data quality objectives in the context of answering your monitoring question (may include the
process/who will decide what to do).
 How will you compare the completeness, representativeness and comparability of your actual data to
those outlined in your data quality objectives?
 Who will decide what type of actions can be taken with the data once it is compared to the data
quality objectives?
 How will data quality be communicated to data users?
Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Figure 1 Stream Survey
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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Descriptive Project Title Here
DEQXX-XXX-XXXX-SAP
Version 1.0
Figure 2 Blue Form
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
xx/xx/20XX
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