The Need for Biological Resource Data in Addition to Contaminant Concentration Data

Present and past theories of water quality monitoring are discussed with emphasis on concepts and rationales involved in data collection and decision making. The partnership of environmental scientist and administrator is described, indicating the symbiotic relationship between the two. Shortcomings of this relationship are also outlined with suggestions for solving existing problems or diminishing their magnitude. The proposal is made to increase long-term biological monitoring at the population and community levels to address the current inadequacies of water quality monitoring.