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              Quality Assurance Project Plan Illinois TMDL Watershed Sampling Page 31
2 Data Generation and Acquisition (Group B)
The U.S. EPA QAPP Guidance Group B Data Generation and Acquisition elements (B1-
B10) are addressed below.
2.1. Sampling Process Design (B1)
The sampling process design is presented in Sections 1.3 and 1.4 of this QAPP, including
sampling rationale, locations, media, frequencies, and schedules.
2.2. Sampling Methods (B2)
Standard operating procedures (SOPs) will be employed to provide consistency and
reproducibility to the sampling methods used by field personnel. The following sections
present or reference the detailed methods for performing sampling activities including related
support procedures for equipment cleaning, field measurements, and calibration and
maintenance of field instruments. Sample custody procedures are presented in the Sample
Handling and Custody Section of this QAPP.
2.2.1. Surface Water Sample Collection
Surface water grab samples will be collected as specified in the Section 1.4 and according to
the procedures presented in Appendix A.
2.2.2. Stream Morphometric and Discharge Monitoring
Stream discharge monitoring will be conducted as specified in Section 1.4 and according to
the procedures presented in Appendix A.
2.2.3. Field Water Quality Measurements and Monitoring
Instantaneous water quality measurements (e.g. temperature, pH and DO) will be collected
using field instruments according to the procedures presented in Appendix A. In-situ
monitoring instruments and equipment will be installed in a manner using methods that
incorporate the unique requirements of specific locations. The main concern will be the
security of the instruments, equipment and generated data. Maintenance, cleaning and/or data
download activities for in-situ instruments will be performed at a frequency necessary to
assure that representative data are generated and recorded for transfer to the project files.
2.2.4. Cleaning of Equipment and Materials
All reusable equipment and materials used during the field activities will be cleaned prior to
use at the site and at specified intervals during the field activities. Cleaning will be
performed according to the procedures specified in Section 1.4 and as presented in Appendix
A to avoid the introduction of any chemical constituents or cross-contamination to the soils
or groundwater. Equipment and materials that may be used during the investigation include
water and/or sediment sample collection devices.
Equipment cleaning will be performed using water from a source approved by the project
manager. If needed, a designated cleaning or decontamination area will be used or
constructed so that all water generated during cleaning operations will be contained for
proper disposal.