Sampling, Characterization, and Monitoring

Team Background:

The Sampling, Characterization, and Monitoring Team was formed in 2002 to address the opportunities presented by several innovations and paradigm shifts in the sampling and monitoring field related to real-time information, continuous monitoring, and long-term monitoring for site closure and stewardship. The team examined not only innovative sampling and monitoring technologies but also innovative approaches, such as USEPA’s Triad approach.

In collaboration with USEPA’s Technology Innovation Office, the SCM Team worked to promote a broader application of the Triad approach, an innovative approach to characterization that incorporates systematic planning, dynamic work plans, and on-site analytical tools. The team developed technical/regulatory documents on the Triad approach and its implementation and on the use of direct-push wells for environmental monitoring. The Triad approach documents include “Technical and Regulatory Guidance for the Triad Approach: A New Paradigm for Environmental Project Management (SCM-1)” and “Triad Implementation Guide (SCM-3)”.  The direct-push wells document is “The Use of Direct-push Well Technology for Long-term Environmental Monitoring in Groundwater Investigations (SCM-2)”. These innovative approaches and new-generation technologies have real potential to contain costs associated with sampling, characterization, and monitoring. The team has also developed training related to this document.