When selecting a site, consider the following:

1) Are there previously monitored locations in your area of interest where you could continue previous monitoring efforts?  If so, this is a great way to start monitoring at a location where you can already see trends over time using previously collected data.

2) Is there a site of particular interest to you or your community?  Select a site that will provide valuable information to you or your community members.

3) Is the sampling location a representative location for the water body being assessed?  Select a site that is the most representative of the location of interest.

In order to enter your water quality information into the statewide database, you will need to formally establish your site.  Establishing a new site includes submitting Latitude and Longitude coordinates, a GoogleEarth/Mapquest/Yahoo map, or physical directions to the site.  Please submit this information via email to txstreamteam@txstate.edu or call toll free 877.506.1401.

Once a site is established, you will receive a Site ID and Site Description.  These are required on all data sheets.

Your local Texas Stream Team partner is often a river authority, city department, or watershed planning group.  Contact Texas Stream Team for help identifying your local partner.

Establishing a relationship with your local partner is an important part of your monitoring efforts.  Through your partner, you can often obtain replacement equipment, report water quality findings, and become engaged in local water management.

Many areas around the state have dedicated groups of monitors that actively collect data on a network of sites.  If you would like to identify a group in your area, please contact Texas Stream Team.

Often, your local partner will supply you with replacement supplies at no cost.  See the partner page to obtain contact information for your partner.  Texas Stream Team can also provide supplies at no cost for your monitoring efforts under certain circumstances.  Please contact Texas Stream Team directly at toll free 877.506.1401 if you do not have a local partner or are not sure how to proceed.

To purchase core parameter monitoring equipment, contact LaMotte at 1.800.344.3100.  Ordering codes and prices are listed at the bottom of the 'How to become a monitor' page.

To purchase Coliscan Easygel E. coli monitoring equipment, visit www.micrologylabs.com.

The monitoring manual and all the other paperwork provided at your training is available for download on our publications page.  The manual is available in chapters due to the large file size.

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Contact Texas Stream Team via email at txstreamteam@txstate.edu or call toll free 877.506.1401.