Bad sampling generates data.
Water quality data is only as good as the method used to collect it. A surface water sample collected without proper QA/QC documentation, a groundwater bore purged incorrectly, a sample held outside its hold time, a chain of custody form with a gap. Any of these can render the resulting data unusable for the regulatory submission it was collected for.
We've seen projects spend tens of thousands on sampling rounds that had to be redone because the methodology didn't satisfy the auditor. The cost of sampling done properly the first time is always less than the cost of sampling done twice.
What we do
Our sampling programs are designed around the specific problem they need to solve. Whether it is baseline characterisation, contamination investigation, dewatering compliance, environmental impact assessment, or ongoing operational monitoring.
- Groundwater sampling by low-flow options where possible, following standard purging protocols. Basic field water quality monitoring, full documentation, and chain of custody management for detailed laboratory results.
- Surface water sampling of rivers, creeks, drains, wetlands, dams, and water bodies for the required parameters using methodology appropriate to the receiving environment.
- Laboratory coordination. All samples submitted to NATA-accredited laboratories. Analysis parameters selected to match the regulatory framework, hold times managed, and laboratory QA/QC reviewed before results are reported.
- Results interpretation. Laboratory data interpreted against the relevant guideline, ANZG 2018 or project-specific trigger levels. Any exceedances flagged, likely sources identified, and recommendations are made where required.
What it costs
One-off sampling events quoted per round. Ongoing programs structured as annual or per-round fee depending on frequency. Laboratory costs passed through at cost with no markup.