National surface water survey. National stream survey (Phase 1 - pilot, mid-Atlantic Phase 1, southeast screening, and episodes pilot) quality-assurance plan. Final report

The Quality Assurance plan documents the QA/QC and methods used for the National Stream Survey of the Aquatic Effects Research Program (Task Group E) of the National Acid Precipitation Assessment Program. The plan is based on the guidance and specifications provided by the Quality Assurance Management Staff (QAMS, 1980) of the Office of Research and Development. Methods are detailed in a companion document, but this plan gives the internal quality control used by the contract analytical laboratories. Detailed QA/QC procedures are given for all processes from field sampling, through sample processing and analysis, to entry and verification of the data in a data base. The data checks, statistical assessments and component comparisons used in data verification are presented in detail.