Sampling and analyses

Before sampling of pesticides in water

There are a range of different factors to take into account in order for the results of an investigation to be as useful and correct as possible. Important issues to think through are for example the aim of the investigation, whether there is a risk of leaching primarily to groundwater or to surface water, choice of matrix (water, sediment, soil) and whether there are results from previous investigations that can provide guidance on the structure of the investigation. Other factors are for example choice of sampling site, sampling season, sampling frequency, sampling technique, handling of samples, analytical method, measurement of related variables and information on the conditions in the catchment area. It is important to take all these factors into account, but also to be consistent so as to be comparable with previous studies. Some of the more important factors to consider before sampling in surface water or groundwater are described in the following sections.

Those wishing to carry out a more extensive investigation of pesticides are advised to read the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s ‘investigation types’ , which describes the structure and methodology for measurements within environmental monitoring of pesticides.