quality assurance project plan (qapp) - National Atmospheric ...

QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN (QAPP) 

SUPPORT FOR CONDUCTING SYSTEMS AND 

PERFORMANCE SURVEYS OF NATIONAL 

ATMOSPHERIC MONITORING STATIONS 

Prepared for: 

U. S. Environmental Protection Agency 

Washington, DC 20460 

Prepared by: 

environmental, engineering 

& measurement services, inc. 

8010 SW 17 th Place 

Gainesville, FL 32607 

EPA Contract No.: EP-W-07-061 

March 2009

Project: NADP Site Survey Program 

Preliminary Section 

Revision: 1 

Date: March 2009 

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A2 

Table of Contents 

1.0 GROUP A: Project Management Elements ..........................................................11 

1.1 A1 – Title and Approval Sheet.......................................................................................11 

1.2 A2 – Table of Contents ..................................................................................................11 

1.3 A3 – Distribution List ....................................................................................................11 

1.4 A4 – Project/Task Organization.....................................................................................11 

1.5 A5 – Problem Definition/Background ...........................................................................15 

1.6 A6 – Project/Task Description.......................................................................................16 

1.6.1 A6.1 Work to be Performed .................................................................................16 

1.6.2 A6.2 Work Performed Prior to Initiating Performance Surveys ..........................17 

1.6.3 A6.3 Participation in NADP’s Standing Subcommittee on Network Operations 17 

1.6.4 A6.4 Site Systems and Performance Surveys.......................................................17 

1.6.5 A6.5 Work to be Performed in Preparation for Conducting Surveys...................18 

1.6.6 A6.6 Work to be Performed During the Remaining One-Year Base Period and 

Each One-Year Option Period..............................................................................19 

1.7 A7 – Quality Objectives and Criteria.............................................................................21 

1.7.1 A7.1 Project Quality Objectives...........................................................................21 

1.7.2 A7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria.............................................................22 

1.8 A8 – Special Training/Certification ...............................................................................22 

1.9 A9 – Documents and Records........................................................................................22 

2.0 GROUP B: Data Generation and Acquisition ......................................................25 

2.1 B1 – Data Collection Design..........................................................................................25 

2.2 B2 – Data Collection Methods.......................................................................................26 

2.2.1 B2.2.1 – Performance Survey Procedures SOPs..................................................26 

2.2.2 B2.2.2 – NADP Systems Survey Procedures .......................................................28 

2.3 B3 – Data Handling and Custody...................................................................................29 

2.4 B4 – Analytical Methods ...............................................................................................30 

2.5 B5 – Quality Control......................................................................................................31 

2.6 B6 – Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance.................................................31 

2.7 B7 – Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency................................................33 

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2.8 B8 – Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies and Consumables ..........................................33 

2.9 B9 – Non-direct Measurements .....................................................................................34 

2.10 B10 – Data Management................................................................................................34 

3.0 GROUP C: Assessment and Oversight..................................................................37 

3.1 C1 – Assessments and Response Actions ......................................................................37 

3.1.1 C1.1 – Preventive Response Actions ...................................................................37 

3.1.2 C1.2 – Corrective Response Action .....................................................................37 

3.1.3 C1.3 – Independent Assessments .........................................................................37 

3.2 C2 – Reports to Management.........................................................................................38 

4.0 GROUP D: Data Validation and Usability Elements ............................................39 

4.1 D1 – Data Review, Verification, and Validation ...........................................................39 

4.2 D2 – Verification and Validation Methods....................................................................39 

4.3 D3 – Reconciliation with User Requirements................................................................41 

List of Appendices 

Appendix A 

Appendix B 

NADP Site Survey Program Standard Operating Procedures 

Site Performance Survey Questionnaire 

List of Tables 

Table 1. Documents Generated for the NADP Site Survey Program………………… 23 

Table 2. Standard Instruments and Equipment……………………………….……… 25 

Table 3. Performance Acceptance Criteria………………………………………….. 27 

Table 4. Systems Acceptance Criteria ………………………………………………. 28 

Table 5. Site Sketch Table……………………………………………………………. 29 

Table 6. Maintenance Chart…………………………………………………………. 32 

Table 7. Equipment Certification Information……………………………………….. 33 

Table 8. Preliminary Site Communication Information………………………………. 34 

Table 9. Initial Site Information………………………………………………………. 34 

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List of Figures 

Figure 1. Organizational Chart and Data Users ………………………………………. 14 

Figure 2. NADP Approved Siting Criteria ………..…………………………………... 29 

Figure 3. Schematic Diagram of Data Management…………………………………... 36 

List of Acronyms and Abbreviations 

AIRMoN 

CAAA 

CAIR 

CAL 

CAMR 

CASTNET 

CAVR 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSSD 

GPRA 

GPS 

HAL 

Hg 

ISWS 

MDN 

NADP 

NIST 

NOS 

NO x 

NTN 

NWS 

OAP 

OTC 

PART 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

Atmospheric Integrated Research Monitoring Network 

Clean Air Act Amendments 

Clean Air Interstate Rule 

Central Analytical Laboratory 

Clean Air Mercury Rule 

Clean Air Status and Trends Network 

Clean Air Visibility Rule 

Environmental, Engineering and Measurement Services, Inc. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

Field Site Survey Database 

Government Performance and Results Act 

global positioning system 

Mercury Analytical Lab 

mercury 

Illinois State Water Survey 

Mercury Deposition Network 

National Atmospheric Deposition Program 

National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Network Operations Subcommittee 

nitrogen oxides 

National Trends Network 

National Weather Service 

Office of Atmospheric Programs 

Ozone Transport Commission 

Program Assessment Rating Tool 

Program Office 

quality assurance 

quality assurance project plan 

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List of Acronyms and Abbreviations (continued) 

QC 

QMP 

SIP 

SO 2 

SOP 

µS/cm 

quality control 

quality management plan 

state implantation plan 

sulfur dioxide 

standard operating procedures 

micro Siemens/centimeter 

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A3 

Distribution List 

Copies of the approved document “Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) for Conducting 

Systems and Performance Surveys of National Atmospheric Monitoring Stations”, along with any 

subsequent revisions, are distributed to the persons listed below: 

Maria L. Jones, PE 

Maria.Jones@ee-ms.com 

352-262-0319 

Charles K. Halbrook 

Keith.Halbrook@ee-ms.com 

352-317-2463 

Melissa Rury 

rury.melissa@epa.gov 

202-343-9882 

Eric Hebert 

eric.hebert@ee-ms.com 

352-262-0802 

EEMS, Inc. 

Project Manager 

EEMS, Inc. 

QA Manager 

US EPA 

EEMS, Inc. 

Survey Team Leader 

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1.0 GROUP A: Project Management Elements 

This Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) has been prepared to meet the requirement of the 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Contract Number EP-W-07-061, for the Support for 

Conducting Systems and Performance Surveys of National Atmospheric Monitoring Stations 

(from this point on referred to as the NADP Site Survey Program). This QAPP describes the 

objectives of the surveying activities to be performed at National Atmospheric Deposition 

Program (NADP) sites, data quality requirements and assessments, project management, 

organization and responsibilities of Environmental Engineering & Measurement Services, Inc. 

(EEMS) staff and consultants, and a schedule of activities and deliverables. This QAPP has been 

prepared compliant with EPA Order 5360.0 A2, Policy and Program Requirements for the 

Mandatory Agency-wide Quality Systems and with the EPA QAPP format as presented in the 

EPA Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans, EPA QA/R5 (EPA 2001). 

1.1 A1 – Title and Approval Sheet 

Title and Approval Sheet provided in preliminary section of this document. 

1.2 A2 – Table of Contents 

Table of Contents provided in preliminary section of this document. 

1.3 A3 – Distribution List 

Distribution List provided in preliminary section of this document. 

1.4 A4 – Project/Task Organization 

The NADP Site Survey Program is fundamentally a quality assurance role to ensure the reliability 

of data collected at these sites. This includes a thorough, on-site evaluation of facilities, 

equipment, personnel, training, procedures, documentation and reporting aspects of the field 

operations systems. Field systems survey results are used to ensure that good quality 

assurance/quality control (QA/QC) practices are being applied as defined in the NADP Quality 

Management Plan (QMP). The individuals with major responsibilities participating in this 

project are presented below. 

EEMS Project Manager 

The project manager is responsible for: 

• Coordinating with the surveyor regarding survey schedules, procedures, standards 

and constants, and required supplies. 

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• Reviewing all survey results. 

• Distributing the survey results to designated personnel in a timely fashion. 

• Reviewing and approving any changes to the survey procedures. 

• Preparing and maintaining the QAPP. 

• Assisting in preparing the template for the surveying activities (Site Performance 

Survey Questionnaire). 

• Coordinating survey schedules with the Survey Team Leader. 

• Notifying the applicable personnel of any upcoming surveys. 

• Reviewing and forwarding the survey deliverables to the applicable personnel. 

• Preparing Monthly Technical Progress reports to the U.S. EPA. 

• Preparing an Annual Summary Report to the U.S. EPA. 

• Attending annual NADP meetings. 

The EEMS Project Manager is Maria Jones, P.E. 

EEMS Survey Team Leader 

The Survey Team Leader is responsible for: 

• Coordinating with the Project Manager regarding survey schedules, survey 

procedures, accuracy goals, required materials, and survey standards. 

• Performing all required surveys in accordance with approved survey protocols as 

described in the specific Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). 

• Maintaining all survey standards. 

• Meeting with, observing and/or interviewing the site operators as needed during 

surveys. 

• Documenting the survey results using the appropriate forms and database. 

• Preparing and forwarding survey reports to the Project Manager. 

• Assisting in preparing the QAPP. 



• Acquiring the appropriate equipment, supplies and standards to conduct the surveys 

• Training other EEMS employees, or EEMS consultants (Survey Technicians) who 

may be expected to perform surveys. 

• Finalizing and forwarding the survey deliverables to the EEMS Project Manager. 

• Attending annual NADP meetings. 

The EEMS Survey Team Leader is Eric Hebert. 

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EEMS QA Manager 

The QA Manager is responsible for: 

• The review and approval of the QAPP. 

• Document control. 

• QC of database entries. 

• Overseeing the maintenance of National Institute of Standards and Technology 

(NIST) traceable records and survey standards. 

• The review all deliverables (including the QAPP) to the U.S. EPA and the NADP PO 

to ensure that these deliverables are of the type and quality required for their intended 

use. 

The EEMS QA Manager is Keith Halbrook. 

U.S. EPA Project Officer 

The functions of the U.S. EPA Project Officer are: 

• Providing overall technical direction for the project. 

• Receiving notification of EEMS’ activities on the project 

• Receiving all EEMS’ survey deliverables. 

The U.S. EPA Project Officer is Michael Kolian, and the alternate is Melissa Rury. 

U.S. EPA QA Officer 

The functions of the U.S. EPA QA Officer are: 

• Reviewing all deliverables (including the QAPP) to ensure that these deliverables are 

of the type and quality required for the intended use. 

The U.S. EPA QA Officer is Larry Ketcher. 

NADP QA Manager 

The functions of the NADP QA Manager are: 

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• Reviewing all deliverables to the NADP Program Office to ensure that these 

deliverables are of the type and quality required for the intended use. 



• Receiving all survey deliverables. 

The NADP QA Coordinator is Mark Rhodes. 

Figure 1 shows the organizational chart for EEMS with the relationships and lines of 

communication among the project participants, together with the users of the data generated by 

this survey program. 

Figure 1. Organizational Chart and Data Users 

U.S. EPA 

Project Officer 

ORGANIZATIONAL 

CHART AND 

U.S. EPA 

DATA USERS 

EEMS 

Contractor 

Data Users 

NADP 


Maria Jones 

EEMS 


Dr. Peter Finkelstein 

QA Consultant 

Keith Halbrook 

EEMS 

QA Manager 

Eric Hebert 

EEMS 

Survey Team Leader 

Andrew Weitz 

Database 

Development 

Scotty Dossett 

TIDUA 

Survey Technician 

Sandy Grenville 

AQS 

Survey Technician 

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1.5 A5 – Problem Definition/Background 

The Acid Rain Program, established under Title IV of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments 

(CAAA), requires major reductions of sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) and nitrogen oxides (NO x ) emissions 

from the electric power industry. Similarly, other programs such as the Ozone Transport 

Commission (OTC), NO x Budget Trading Program and the EPA’s NO x State Implementation 

Plan (SIP), both of which are seasonal and regional NO x reduction programs also require 

emissions reductions from the power sector. In the spring of 2005, EPA promulgated a suite of 

air quality rules designed to further the reductions of SO 2 and NO x , as well as mercury (Hg) 

emissions from power plants. These new rules include the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR), the 

Clean Air Mercury Rule (CAMR), and the Clean Air Visibility Rule (CAVR). Assessing the 

environmental impacts of power generation such as regional air quality and atmospheric 

deposition of sulfur, nitrogen, and mercury is important to understanding and evaluating the 

progress of these emission reduction programs. EPA adheres to several mandates such as Title 

IX of the Clean Air Act, the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA), and the Program 

Assessment Rating Tool (PART) to report on the performance and overall progress of these 

programs. This involves evaluating the environmental effectiveness of these programs as 

measured by a variety of environmental monitoring efforts at different scales, and examination of 

the link between emissions and atmospheric concentrations, deposition, and soil/aquatic 

chemistry and biological impact, and between concentration levels and human health. EPA’s air 

quality management strategy must continue and improve tracking regional patterns of pollutant 

concentrations, transport, and trends. 

To understand the impact of emissions reductions on the environment, scientists and policy 

makers use data collected from long-term national monitoring networks such as the Clean Air 

Status and Trends Network (CASTNET) and the NADP. These networks are complementary in 

many ways and provide information on a variety of indicators necessary for tracking temporal 

and spatial trends in regional air quality and atmospheric deposition. EPA provides support to the 

NADP, a cooperative, multi-agency network, which measures precipitation chemistry and 

estimates atmospheric deposition for various pollutant ions and mercury. EPA has provided longstanding 

support for the operation of NADP. In addition to operational support, EPA provides 

support for the survey and quality assurance programs of the NADP networks. Contract Number 

EP-W-07-061 provides for the survey and quality assurance assessment of sites associated with 

the three inter-related NADP networks–the National Trends Network (NTN), the Atmospheric 

Integrated Research Monitoring Network (AIRMoN), and the Mercury Deposition Network 

(MDN). Surveys of sites under this contract will provide the necessary checks and balances for 

the site operations and will serve to validate data provided by the sites in the network. 

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QA/QC activities for these networks improve overall data quality and ensure field measurements 

remain accurate and precise. Stringent QA and QC are essential for obtaining unbiased and 

representative atmospheric deposition measurements and for maintaining the integrity of the 

sample during collection, handling, and analysis. These activities strengthen the reliability and 

overall quality of the data the EPA uses for policy decisions and for measures of accountability. 

1.6 A6 – Project/Task Description 

The work to be performed under this contract involves support to the EPA, Office of Atmospheric 

Programs (OAP). Under this contract EEMS performs a survey of site operations for NADP’s 

atmospheric deposition collection networks. All results are recorded in a relational database and 

reported to the relevant data users. The surveys provide quality assurance pertaining to siting, 

sample collection and handling, equipment operation and maintenance, record keeping, reports, 

and field laboratory procedures. 

1.6.1 A6.1 Work to be Performed 

The primary function of this contract is to provide in-field systems and performance survey 

services (herein after referred to as surveys) to assess and aid the performance and maintenance 

of the nationwide, long-term wet deposition monitoring networks of the NADP. 

NADP collection stations are currently comprised of three networks which include: precipitation 

chemistry and wet deposition sites in the NTN; precipitation chemistry and wet deposition sites in 

the AIRMoN; and measurements of mercury concentrations in precipitation at wet deposition 

sites in the MDN. 

There are currently over 250 wet deposition sites in the NADP/NTN, over 90 sites in the 

NADP/MDN, including over 40 that are collocated at NTN sites, and 7 sites in NADP/AIRMoN, 

including three that are collocated at NTN sites. NADP operates sites throughout the continental 

United States, Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. Current maps with 

the sites for the three different networks can be found at http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu. The number of 

sites in each network can vary at any given time and is expected to increase. EEMS will be 

responsible for maintaining a current inventory of sites, based on information provided by the 

NADP PO, located at the Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS). 

The NADP PO operates and/or administers the three precipitation chemistry networks (NTN, 

AIRMoN, and MDN), two analytical laboratories, and the Network Equipment Depot (NED). 

Each network has a particular objective and corresponding sampling analytes and periods. 

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1.6.2 A6.2 Work Performed Prior to Initiating Performance Surveys 

EEMS attended an operations workshop sponsored by the NADP PO at the ISWS prior to 

initiating performance surveys. The purpose of this workshop was to provide the necessary 

orientation to EEMS, on the various operations of the NADP PO, as well as to provide directions 

on network equipment and procedures to assist in implementing the site survey program. This 

workshop also allowed for the development of a template for the database which contains survey 

information collected for each network (from this point on referred to as the Site Performance 

Survey Questionnaire and can be found in Appendix B). Specific site survey procedures for each 

network, as well as quality assurance and the transfer of survey data to the NADP PO and the 

EPA procedures were developed with the cooperation of the NADP PO. 

The workshop was conducted August 7 and 8, 2007. It was attended by EEMS personnel (Project 

Manager, Survey Team Leader, and QA Manager), along with two EEMS consultants, EPA’s 

project officer representative, representatives from each of the three networks, Central Analytical 

Laboratory (CAL), Mercury Analytical Lab (HAL) and the former NADP QA Manager. This 

schedule was in conformance with the Statement of Work for this project, which required that the 

workshop be conducted within the first ninety days of contract award. 

1.6.3 A6.3 Participation in NADP’s Standing Subcommittee on Network Operations 

Appropriate representatives from EEMS will actively participate on NADP’s standing 

Subcommittee on Network Operations (NOS) meeting twice a year. EEMS representatives will 

also attend the Annual Technical Committee Meetings and any other interim business meetings as 

appropriate. 

1.6.4 A6.4 Site Systems and Performance Surveys 

EEMS will conduct surveys of approximately 90 sites per year from the NADP NTN, AIRMoN, 

and MDN networks, including collocated sites. A monitoring site can have one or more 

collocated NADP collection stations at a single site location. Collocated sites include those sites 

that are within a 1 km radius. Each approved NADP monitoring station at the physical location 

will be considered a single monitoring station in the total for the year. The purpose of the surveys 

is to provide an independent quality assurance assessment of all NADP sites, documenting the 

conditions of the site, site operations, and site equipment. The survey team will conduct external 

quality assurance evaluations pertaining to NADP approved siting criteria, sample collection and 

handling, field measurement procedures and SOPs, equipment operation and maintenance, record 

keeping, reports and field laboratory procedures. As part of the site survey, EEMS will also 

perform minor repairs and preventive maintenance, and will assist in restoring proper function to 

site equipment. Surveys may also include certain other monitoring activities and special studies 

located at approved NADP sites using approved NADP monitoring equipment. In such cases, 

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EEMS will contact the NADP PO and the EPA Project Officer to verify whether a survey is 

applicable. 

The items in the Site Performance Survey Questionnaire for each network will be checked at each 

collection site and entered into a computer database maintained by EEMS. This database will 

ensure and verify the validity of all entries. Database reports and tables will be electronically 

transferred to the EPA and NADP QA Manager. The database files will be in Microsoft Access ® 

format and contain every item on the network Site Performance Survey Questionnaire. Digital 

site images will be provided in electronic format with a consistent, site specific naming 

convention. Additional survey documentation will be mailed to the EPA Project Officer and the 

NADP QA Manager. EEMS will develop a site survey procedures manual or SOPs that details 

the major functions and procedures involved in conducting a site survey as part of this program. 

The NADP anticipates changes to equipment and procedures during the period of this contract. 

Such changes, when approved by the NADP PO and subcommittees, are considered within the 

scope of Contract Number EP-W-07-061. 

The following tasks pertain to general preparation for conducting surveys at NADP monitoring 

sites. 

1.6.5 A6.5 Work to be Performed in Preparation for Conducting Surveys 

EEMS will become familiar with the overall operations of each of the three NADP networks, and 

will work closely with the NADP PO in the coordination of site surveys and to maximize the 

utility of information gathered. 

Standards and supplies required to conduct the survey will include: 

• Standard weights for calibrating rain gages, 

• Global Positioning System (GPS) device equipped with a Wide Area Augmentation 

System (WAAS). Survey quality compass (NIST certified) for accurate proximity 

determinations of site equipment and site configuration purposes. 

• At a minimum 4.0 mega pixel digital camera, 

• Field-suitable laptop computer with Microsoft Access 2003, or later version, 

• Quality control check samples and conductivity standards, as appropriate, provided by 

CAL. 

• EEMS understands that in the event that the NADP updates site equipment over the 

period of this contract, EEMS may be required to procure additional equipment to verify 

calibration of new NADP-approved equipment. 

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EEMS will initiate communications with the NADP representatives and site liaisons at the CAL, 

HAL and NADP QA Manager to obtain an update of the site status, and site operator information 

prior to initiating site surveys. Upon receiving updates of the status of the sites, EEMS will 

proceed to develop a proposed schedule of sites to be surveyed in the first year of this contract 

based on historical survey data. 

EEMS will develop a database that will provide the EEMS team with electronic entry forms for 

inputting and handling information collected from the site surveys. This will include 

documentation on all equipment and major features within the 30 meter radius of the NADP 

collector. The database will be able to store historical information from previous surveys so data 

entry/exit rules can be written that will challenge entries that differ significantly from initial 

entries. This database will then generate an abbreviated exit report (Spot Report) from the 

preliminary numeric audit results and written findings. The Spot Report will include findings that 

could result in data invalidation. Further information on this database is provided the NTN Site 

Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures – SOP-EPW07061-1010. 

During the first 90 days of this contract, EEMS developed a Quality Management Plan (QMP) 

according to EPA Requirements for Quality Management Plans (EPA QA/R-2) and this QAPP 

which conforms to EPA Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans (EPA QA/R-5). 

1.6.6 A6.6 Work to be Performed During the Remaining One-Year Base Period and 

Each One-Year Option Period 

EEMS will conduct surveys of approximately 90 monitoring sites each year. The first 

consideration will be given to those sites that have not been surveyed for three or more years. 

Following this criteria, EEMS will develop a schedule of the sites to be surveyed during the 

remaining one-year base period. 

1.6.6.1 Prepare for Each Survey Trip 

One month before the scheduled site survey, EEMS will contact the EPA Project Officer, the 

NADP PO QA Manager, the appropriate site liaisons and site operator and supervisor to establish 

an agenda for the survey. Details pertaining to the contacting procedures can be found in SOP- 

EPW07061-1010. EEMS will also prepare the necessary supplies to conduct the site surveys. 

These supplies comprise the Site Survey Kit, and will comply with NOS-approved specifications. 

Equipment repaired and/or calibrated on site by EEMS will be in accordance with NOS-approved 

procedures. EEMS will compile the necessary information in preparation for the site survey, and 

will generate the necessary field forms to conduct the survey. This subject is further discussed in 

Section B3 – Data Handling and Custody. 

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1.6.6.2 Conduct Site Surveys 

Survey Technicians will meet the site operator and other interested parties as prearranged, and 

will conduct the survey in accordance with the SOPs included in Appendix A. These SOPs have 

been developed by EEMS for the different aspects of conducting the survey. Assistance from the 

site operator will only be required to obtain the information necessary to complete the Site 

Performance Survey Questionnaire that pertains to the historical data and to the evaluation of his 

or her sample handling techniques. 

EEMS will conduct a quantitative performance assessment during the surveys. All information 

will be recorded by EEMS in the Site Performance Survey Questionnaire forms. 

1.6.6.3 Prepare and Forward Survey Deliverables 

Within 24 hours of completion of the site survey, EEMS’ Survey Technician will generate a 

Spot Report that will include any immediate action items necessary to restore proper function to 

the site. It will contain a summary of survey activities and serve to document the visit. The 

Survey Technician will verbally brief the supervisor and operator on the results of the systems 

and performance survey. 

The Site Performance Survey Report will be prepared and submitted in electronic format within 

15 days after completion of the site survey. 

1.6.6.4 Prepare Monthly Progress Reports 

EEMS Project Manager will prepare written technical progress reports (Monthly Progress Report) 

that will include the following items: 

• A summary of EEMS’ activities conducted during the reporting period 

• A summary of EEMS’ activities currently scheduled during the next reporting period 

• A listing of outstanding actions awaiting EPA Project Officer authorization 

Two copies of the Monthly Progress Report will be submitted to the EPA by the 10 th day of each 

month: one to the EPA Project Officer and one to the Contract Specialist. 

1.6.6.5 Prepare Annual Summary Report 

EEMS Project Manager will prepare a written draft report summarizing EEMS’ surveying 

activities and findings. The report will include the sites surveyed during each calendar year. Two 

copies of the draft will be prepared and submitted by EEMS: one to the EPA Project Officer, 

and one to the NADP QA Manager. The draft report will be submitted within 90 days following 

each calendar year or in sufficient time for the annual NADP interim subcommittee meeting. The 

EPA Project Officer will have up to 45 days for review, comment, and return of the report. Five 

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copies of the final report will be prepared and submitted by EEMS to the EPA Project Officer 

within 30 days after approval of the report. 

1.6.6.6 Semi-Annual NADP Meetings 

EEMS Project Manager and Survey Team Leader (or representatives) will attend the Annual 

Interim Subcommittee meeting (typically scheduled during the spring months) and actively 

participate on the NADP NOS. EEMS Project Manager and Survey Team Leader (or 

representatives) will attend the annual NADP Technical Committee interim meeting (typically 

scheduled during the autumn months). A brief update of EEMS’ recent activities will be 

presented at both meetings. The EPA Project Officer and the NADP QA Manager shall provide 

updates and summaries as appropriate to NADP members. A summary of the results included in 

the annual summary report will be presented at the Annual NADP Interim Subcommittee 

Meeting. 

1.6.6.7 Maintaining the QAPP 

EEMS Project Manager will periodically review the QAPP for accuracy. The review will occur 

upon major changes in procedures or personnel, or at least annually, whichever is sooner. The 

initial hard copy QAPP document will be presented in a three-ring binder. Approved revision 

pages and instructions for removal of old pages and insertion of new pages will be forwarded to 

those included in the document distribution list. 

1.7 A7 – Quality Objectives and Criteria 

The intent of the NADP Site Survey Program is to provide an unbiased assessment for all NADP 

sites and to document the results to verify that all evaluated parameters are consistent with the 

NADP performance and accuracy goals. The quality objectives of this survey program are to 

evaluate the parameters in a precise manner and to accurately report the findings. 

1.7.1 A7.1 Project Quality Objectives 

The project quality objective is to ensure that the survey data collected by EEMS are of the type 

and quality required by the EPA and the NADP PO to determine if the samples and field data 

collected at each network site are in conformance with NADP QAPP. The project objective will 

be satisfied by: 

• EEMS and the end users jointly developing the Site Performance Survey Questionnaire 

for gathering, recording and transmitting the data at the operations workshop 

• Establishing regular communications between EEMS Survey Team Leader and NADP 

representatives (typically the NADP QA Manager and NADP network site liaisons). 

Quality objectives will continue to be developed within the scope of this project. 

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1.7.2 A7.2 Measurement Performance Criteria 

Historical data available from previous site surveys will be entered into the Site Performance 

Survey Questionnaire for the upcoming surveys. Where possible, all historical data will be 

checked by EEMS during the survey to verify if changes have occurred. Changes may be likely 

given that sites are surveyed approximately once every three years and that sites are dynamic in 

terms of the performance of the site operators, the performance of the equipment, and site 

surroundings. 

EEMS’ goal is to obtain 100 percent data completeness of the Site Performance Survey 

Questionnaire. Difficulties in accomplishing this goal may include such factors as inclement 

weather during the survey, non-participation of the site operator during the survey, unexpected 

failure of any of EEMS’ measurement equipment, and other factors beyond EEMS’ control. 

EEMS expects to obtain an overall data completeness of the Site Performance Survey Report of 

at least 95 percent. 

1.8 A8 – Special Training/Certification 

No special training or certifications are required of EEMS personnel and its consultants assigned 

to participate in this project. EEMS personnel that will be participating in field activities and 

EEMS’ consultants attended the Project Operations workshop as required by Contract Number 

EP-W-07-061. EEMS personnel and its consultants have extensive experience performing field 

survey activities. 

Training of all new field personnel will be provided by the Survey Team Leader. All new field 

personnel will be trained by accompanying the Survey Team Leader to as many field sites as 

necessary to become proficient with the survey procedures. 

The EEMS QA Manager will observe the survey Team’s procedures and techniques at various 

sites during NADP surveys. The QA Manager will provide a report regarding the proficiency of 

the Survey Technicians within on month of the observation (or field audit). 

1.9 A9 – Documents and Records 

During the course of this project the following documents and records will be generated and 

revised as needed: 

• The current QAPP and subsequent revisions 

• The Site Performance Survey Questionnaire 

• Survey announcement letters to the site operator, site supervisor and site sponsor 

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• Field Data Sheets of the Site Performance Questionnaire for data gathering (individual 

SOPs) 

• Survey deliverables 

• Monthly Progress Reports 

• Annual Summary Reports 

• Site Survey File 

• Any other formal written correspondence from the EEMS Project Manager to the EPA 

Project Officer or the NADP QA Manager. 

The EEMS QA Manager is responsible for review of and maintaining the distribution of the 

current version of the SOPs and QAPP. 

Table 1 includes the different types of reports, generated for the NADP Site Survey Program, the 

recipient of each report and the level of detail. 

Table 1. Documents Generated for the NADP Site Survey Program 

Report Name Recipients Purpose and Description 

Field SOPs 

QAPP and Subsequent Revisions 

Site survey announcement 

correspondence 

Survey Deliverable: Spot Report 

Survey Deliverable: Site Survey 

Performance Report 

Survey Deliverable: Monthly 

Progress Report 

EPA Project Officer ; 


EPA Project Officer 

Site supervisor; 

site operator and 


Site Personnel; 

Site Liaisons; 

NADP QA Manager; 




Contract Specialist* 


Contract Specialist 

Describes the procedures to 

follow when conducting all 

aspects of the site surveys 

Documentation of all aspects of 

QA/QC to be followed during 

the period of this contract 

Letter confirming date, time and 

location of the scheduled site 

survey along with a brief agenda 

and duration of the site survey 

Report of site activities and 

items requiring repair and 

maintenance 

QC checked site survey report 

with all the information gathered 

during the site survey 

Report of the previous month’s 

activities and planned activities 

for the following month 

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Report Name Recipients Purpose and Description 

Survey Deliverable: Annual 

Summary Report 

Database Report Submitted with 

Monthly Progress Report 

* Letter of Transmittal only 




Contract Specialist* 



Summary of previous year’s 

activities (Draft) 

Summary of previous year’s 

activities (Final) 

Electronic database file delivery 

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2.0 GROUP B: Data Generation and Acquisition 

This section addresses all aspects of data acquisition to ensure that appropriate methods of data 

collection, data handling, and QC activities are being followed. 

2.1 B1 – Data Collection Design 

The NADP Site Survey Program is an external QA and maintenance function of sites within the 

three networks of the NADP. The design, location, acceptance, and operation of the sites within 

the networks are the responsibility of the NADP PO and subcommittees. 

The NADP Site Survey Program is designed to test and assess each of the measurement and 

sample collection devices at all of the sites in the NADP. The locations of the sites can be found 

at www.nadp.sws.uiuc.edu. 

The schedule of site surveys will be established to enable each site in the NADP to be surveyed 

once approximately every three years. The current Site Survey Schedule can be found at 

FTP://67.192.214.230. 

The sites are comprised of instruments and equipment that have been approved by the NADP PO 

and subcommittees. Table 2 summarizes the instruments and equipment operated by the networks 

of the NADP and those used during the survey procedures to assess the operation of the 

equipment. 

Table 2. Standard Instruments and Equipment 

Network 

Site Instrument NTN MDN AIRMoN 

Survey Standards, Instruments and 

Tools 

Belfort Precipitation Gage × × Weights, Linearity Tool 

ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gage × × Weights, PDA, Voltmeter 

OTT NADP Pluvio Precipitation Gage × × Weights, PDA, Voltmeter 

NWS Stick Precipitation Gage × Volumetric Flask 

ACM Precipitation Collector × × × Temperature Probe, Weights, Voltmeter 

N-CON Precipitation Collector × Temperature Probe, Voltmeter 

Ohaus Balance × × × Weights 

Scales (various) × × Weights 

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Network 

Site Instrument NTN MDN AIRMoN 

Survey Standards, Instruments and 

Tools 

pH meter (various) × Solution pH: 4.01, 7.00, 10.00 

Conductivity meter (various) × Solution 88, 447, 1413 (µS/cm) 

Other operational aspects of the sites are also assessed. Those include the siting criteria and 

operational procedures and are considered site systems surveys. The design and methods used for 

the assessment of all aspects of NADP site operations are described in the following sections. 

2.2 B2 – Data Collection Methods 

A performance survey and a system survey comprise the elements of a NADP site survey. When 

performing the site surveys, and collecting data, EEMS will follow specific SOPs developed for 

each aspect of the survey and instrument. As the SOPs are followed, findings are recorded in the 

forms that constitute the Site Performance Survey Questionnaire. The Site Performance Survey 

Questionnaire can be found in Appendix B. The SOPs can be found in Appendix A. 

2.2.1 B2.2.1 – Performance Survey Procedures SOPs 

EEMS developed three SOPs where the overall or general procedures for conducting the 

performance survey for sites in each of the three networks are specified: 

• NTN Site Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures – SOP-EPW07061-1010 

• MDN Site Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures – SOP-EPW07061-1020 

• AIRMoN Site Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures – SOP-EPW07061- 

1030 

The performance survey procedures include verifying that sensors and gages are capable of 

making valid and accurate measurements as defined in the NADP QAPP, performing 

maintenance and calibration on the equipment as required, evaluating field laboratory 

performance, documenting survey results using appropriate forms and database, and distributing 

the survey results to designated project personnel. 

EEMS developed SOPs for conducting surveys of the different types of precipitation gages found 

at NADP sites: 

• Belfort Precipitation Gage – SOP-EPW07061-1400 

• OTT NADP Pluvio Precipitation Gage – SOP-EPW07061-1410 

• ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gage – SOP-EPW07061-1420 

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• National Weather Service (NWS) Stick Precipitation Gage – SOP-EPW07061-1430 

EEMS will check the response of the gages as found over the range appropriate for the gage, and 

will attempt to repair and recalibrate any Belfort gage in which the difference between the applied 

depth and recorded depth is out of tolerance as defined in the NADP QAPP. Stick gages and 

electronic gages will not be adjusted. 

EEMS developed SOPs for conducting surveys of the different types of precipitation collectors 

found at NADP sites, including the collector sensor and motorbox: 

• ACM NTN and AIRMoN Precipitation Collector – SOP-EPW07061-1310 

• ACM MDN Precipitation Collector – SOP-EPW07061-1320 

• N-CON Precipitation Collector – SOP-EPW07061-1330 

EEMS developed SOPs for conducting surveys of the field laboratory activities, equipment and 

supplies found at NTN and AIRMoN NADP sites: 

• Ohaus Balance (or electronic scale) – SOP-EPW07061-1210 

• pH Meter – SOP-EPW07061-1220 

• Conductivity Meter – SOP-EPW07061-1230 

Field laboratory includes data that pertains to performance of the field laboratory equipment 

(bucket balance, pH measurement system and specific conductance measurement system), the 

inventory of supplies and recordkeeping by the site operator. 

For AIRMoN sites, CAL will provide EEMS with a simulated rain sample of known pH and 

specific conductance. EEMS will request from the site operator that he or she analyze the sample 

as though it were a regular weekly sample. EEMS will be able to assess the procedures executed 

by the site operator in completing this task. 

The methods developed and described in the performance survey SOPs are intended to be used to 

determine and ensure that data collected and recorded by the NADP conforms to the performance 

acceptance criteria established in the NADP QAPP. Table 3 is a summary of these performance 

acceptance criteria. 

Table 3. Performance Acceptance Criteria 

Site Measurement Survey Method Acceptance Criteria 

Belfort Precipitation Depth Standard weight ± 0.10 in 

ETI Precipitation Depth Standard weight 0.05 in 

OTT NADP Pluvio Precipitation Depth Standard weight 0.05 in 

Stick Precipitation Depth Standard volumetric addition 0.01 in 

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Collector Clutch Weight lift 2 standard weights 

Mass Standard weight 0.5% 

pH Reference solution 5.16 +/- 0.1 

Conductivity Reference solution 3.8 +/- 0.3 uS/cm 

Precipitation Sensor Temperature Standard temperature probe 60 °C ± 10% in 10 minutes 

2.2.2 B2.2.2 – NADP Systems Survey Procedures 

The NADP Systems Survey Procedures include data that pertains primarily to those aspects of the 

survey that are not instrument specific such as general site information, siting criteria, power 

source for the site, field laboratory and site operator evaluation and training. EEMS will follow 

SOP-EPW07061-1500 when performing this part of the survey. 

EEMS will update the site sketch with a 30-meter radius footprint centered at the precipitation 

collector. EEMS will take electronic photographs of the site in standard Windows JPG format at a 

resolution not less than 4.0 mega pixels. The 8 cardinal directions N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, and 

NW will be photographed as viewed from a distance of 5 to 10 meters from the precipitation 

collector, with a directional badge indicating the direction of the photo. Additional views may 

also be taken if deemed by the Survey Technician to be necessary to adequately show the site. 

EEMS will use a GPS system for measuring latitude, longitude, and elevation of the site 

precipitation collector for each site location. 

The methods developed and described in the system SOP are intended to be used to determine 

and ensure that data collected and recorded by the NADP conforms to the system acceptance 

criteria established in the NADP QAPP. Table 4 is a summary of system acceptance criteria. 

Table 4. Systems Acceptance Criteria 


Collector wet bucket oriented magnetic West Certified compass ± 45 degrees 

Collector and gage inlet height separation Distance measuring device ± 0.3 m 

Verify site sketch 

Certified compass and range 

finder 

All objects within a 30 

meter radius 

While updating the 30-meter radius site sketch, EEMS will prepare a table with that will include 

all the objects located within the 30-meter radius with the appropriate direction, distance from the 

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precipitation collector, and dimensions of the object. Table 5 shows the headers that will 

comprise the site sketch table. Figure 2 shows the approved NADP siting criteria. 

Table 5. Site Sketch Table 

Direction 

(degrees) 

Distance 

(meters) 

Object Descriptions 

Object Height 

(meters) 

Object Width 

(meters) 

Figure 2. NADP Approved Siting Criteria 

2.3 B3 – Data Handling and Custody 

As a site survey is scheduled, EEMS will request from the NADP PO all available data collected 

from the previous site survey and any other site information. EEMS will also request from the 

site personnel any information on modifications that may have been performed on the site 

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instrumentation, and any operational problems that may exist at the site. This preliminary 

information will be entered or imported into the relational Field Site Survey Database (FSSD). 

At this point a backup of the database will be created. EEMS will then start compiling the Site 

Survey File. Detail information regarding the Site Survey File can be found in site performance 

SOPs for the different networks (documents SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020, and 

SOP-EPW07061-1030). 

A Site Survey Kit with all the materials and supplies required to perform site surveys in a planned 

trip will then be assembled. A copy of the Site Survey File is included as part of the kit. EEMS 

QA Manager oversees that the Site Survey Kit is complete and shipped to the Survey Technician 

responsible for performing the site survey. Upon receiving the Site Survey Kit, the Survey 

Technician will inspect the kit and report any missing or damaged items. Replacements will be 

shipped at once. 

During the site survey, the Survey Technician will follow the specific SOPs, and will record the 

data generated onto the Site Performance Survey Questionnaire forms. The historical data 

provided by the NADP PO will be verified. Within 24 hours, the Survey Technician will enter 

the data gathered into the FSSD. A backup of the data will be created after each site survey. 

Once three sites have been surveyed, the Survey Technician will send the original forms and 

database tables to EEMS. 

At EEMS, the QA Manager will oversee receipt and log of the data package from the field. A 

technical assistant QA staff member will perform duplicate entry of numeric data from the forms 

completed by the Survey Technician. Backups of the data will be created after data from each 

site has been entered. The FSSD will then compare the two sets of data entered for the same site 

and will reveal any discrepancies. If any discrepancies are revealed, the QA Manager and the 

Project Manager will review the available records in order to reconcile the discrepancies. A 

backup of the data will be created once the data has gone through this QC process. 

Within 15 days of the site survey, EEMS will forward the Site Performance Survey Report to the 

EPA Project Officer and the NADP QA Manager. The Site Performance Survey Report is 

comprised of the data entered in the Site Performance Survey Questionnaire forms after going 

through the QC process. 

2.4 B4 – Analytical Methods 

CAL will prepare simulated rain samples of known pH and specific conductance for use by 

EEMS in conducting surveys at AIRMoN sites. These samples will be prepared according to 

CAL’s procedures and QAPP. These samples will be used by EEMS’ Survey Technician to 

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evaluate the technique of the site operators and to determine the accuracy of the instruments in 

question. 

2.5 B5 – Quality Control 

EEMS is acutely aware that the NADP Site Survey Program is one QA/QC role of the NADP 

program. As such, the internal site survey program QA/QC has added importance and 

consequence since not only data collected for the purpose of the survey, but data collected for the 

purpose of the NADP are jeopardized if the survey data are not accurate and quality assured. 

EEMS QA Manager and Project Manager will review and oversee all of the procedures. Quality 

assurance documents (QMP and QAPP) will be prepared by the Project Manager with input and 

revisions by the QA Manager. These documents will specify the procedures followed as they 

relate to data collection and data entry. 

Collected data will be recorded during the site surveys on the Site Performance Survey 

Questionnaire Forms. These handwritten entries will then be entered into the FSSD by the 

Survey Technician, and verified by means of appropriate built-in range checks for relevant fields. 

Double data entry of the data collected will be performed by a technical assistant QA staff 

member. Any data discrepancies will be revealed by the FSSD. It will be the responsibility of 

the QA Manager and the Project Manager to resolve and reconcile any discrepancies between the 

two sets of data. 

2.6 B6 – Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance 

A list of the equipment and supplies used by EEMS in conducting the surveys is presented in 

each SOP. EEMS will inspect all equipment for damage prior to use and will operate and 

maintain the equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. EEMS QA Manager 

will be responsible for maintaining the Site Survey Kit and to oversee that the kit is complete and 

that required testing and maintenance is performed. 

The purpose of the NADP Site Survey Program is the testing, inspection and maintenance of the 

equipment located at NADP sites. Table 6 below shows the type of maintenance to be performed 

by the Survey Technician while conducting the site surveys. Any testing, maintenance, and 

calibration will be performed in accordance with existing NADP SOPs and equipment manuals. 

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Table 6. Maintenance Chart 

NADP COLLECTOR Calibrate Troubleshoot Clean Adjust Replace 

Worn thrust collar NA Yes No Yes No 

Faulty sensor NA Yes Yes No Yes 

Poor bucket lid seal NA Yes NA Yes Yes 

Lid tension area NA Yes Yes Yes No 

Lid liner NA NA No NA Yes 

Faulty motor box NA Yes NA NA Yes 

Improper counter weight NA Yes NA Yes Yes 

Improperly mounted snow roof NA NA NA Yes Yes 

Missing or rusted mounting screws NA NA Yes NA Yes 

Missing chimney insulation (MDN) NA Yes NA Yes Yes 

Fuses NA Yes NA NA Yes 

NADP RECORDING RAINGAGE Calibrate Troubleshoot Clean Adjust Replace 

Faulty clock No Yes No No Yes 

Out of tolerance gage Yes Yes Yes Yes No 

Pen & event marker hang-up NA Yes Yes Yes Yes 

Low oil in damper NA Yes No NA Yes 

Pen traverse off time line NA Yes Yes Yes No 

Improper zero adjust NA Yes Yes Yes No 

Missing/loose screws NA Yes No Yes Yes 

NWS STICK GAGE (AIRMoN) Calibrate Troubleshoot Clean Adjust Replace 

Clean NA Yes Yes No No 

Level Yes Yes No Yes NA 

FIELD LABORATORY (AIRMoN) Calibrate Troubleshoot Clean Adjust Replace 

Poor pH measurement Yes Yes Yes Yes No 

Poor conductivity measurement Yes Yes Yes Yes No 

Poor mass measurement Yes Yes Yes Yes No 

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2.7 B7 – Instrument/Equipment Calibration and Frequency 

Instruments and equipment located at the NADP sites will be calibrated according to the NADP 

Site Survey Program schedule. EEMS is responsible for surveying approximately 90 NADP sites 

per contract year, resulting in calibrations at each site once approximately every three years. 

EEMS will select the sites to be surveyed following these criteria: 

• Select sites that have not been visited as part of this project for at least three years; 

• Select sites in regional geographic proximity to one another; 

• Select sites in the northern or mountainous parts of the networks to be visited during 

spring, summer and autumn months (to help facilitate travel and surveying operations). 

Routine maintenance, calibration and certification of instruments and equipment used by EEMS 

while conducting site surveys will be the responsibility of the QA Manger. The QA Manger is 

also responsible for maintaining the appropriate certification and maintenance documentation and 

complying with the recertification schedule. Table 7 shows the equipment requiring regular 

maintenance and certification. 

Table 7. Equipment Certification Information 

Item Certifying Organization Certification Frequency 

Compass Independent Laboratory Annual 

Electronic Balance Independent Laboratory Annual 

Standard Weights EEMS Quarterly 

Resistive Temperature Device (RTD) Independent Laboratory Semiannual 

Multi meter Independent Laboratory Annual 

Range finder EEMS Semiannual 

2.8 B8 – Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies and Consumables 

Upon receipt of items and prior to use, EEMS QA Manager will perform an acceptance 

inspection in order to ensure conformance with the procurement requirements. The inspection 

may include verification of configuration or physical requirements, conformance with catalog 

descriptions, receipt of certifications, and no damage during shipping. The inspection will also 

include the calibration and/or setup of equipment and/or test of satisfactory performance. The 

QA Manager will document and maintain records of any relevant purchases, and any 

recertification schedule. 

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2.9 B9 – Non-direct Measurements 

EEMS anticipates that the only non-direct measurements or data relevant to this project will be 

that provided by the NADP PO as historical data to be verified during the site survey. These 

historical data will be entered or imported into the FSSD and will become part of the Site Survey 

File. As the Survey Technician conducts the survey, this historical data will be verified, by 

either recording the corrected values in the Site Performance Survey Questionnaire forms, or 

accepting the historical values as correct. 

2.10 B10 – Data Management 

Data management activities will be performed according to the Systems and Performance SOPs 

developed for this project (see SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020 SOP-EPW07061- 

1030, and SOP-EPW07061-1500). 

Among the preliminary survey activities EEMS will request from the NADP PO information 

pertaining to the sites scheduled to be surveyed. This type of information is presented in Table 8. 

Table 8. Preliminary Site Communication Information 

Site Name Site ID Survey Date Previous Survey Date NADP Network(s) 

Site #1 

Site #2 

Site #3 

: 

Information gathered from the NADP liaison during the preliminary communication should 

include the information presented in Table 9 for each site. 

Table 9. Initial Site Information 

Site operator (name, address, phone, e-mail) 

Site supervisor (name, address, phone, e-mail) 

Site sponsor contact (name, address, phone, e-mail) 

Precipitation gage (manufacturer, model) 

Precipitation collector (manufacturer, model) 

Balance (manufacturer, model) 

pH meter (manufacturer, model) 

Conductivity meter (manufacturer, model) 

Existing Information 

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Table 9. Initial Site Information (continued) 

Site characteristics (i.e., solar power, remote, etc) 

Known problems (equipment and/or siting related) 

Additional requests (training issues, etc) 

Logistical concerns (i.e.,. passes or keys required, etc) 

Site sketch available and provided (pdf file name) 


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This information is entered into the FSSD and becomes part of the Site Survey File which is 

backed up any time new data is incorporated. The Site Survey File for each site will have a 

unique document control number. This Site Survey File will be included in the Site Survey Kit 

and will be shipped to the Survey Technician performing the survey. 

As the Survey Technician conducts the site survey he or she will record all data gathered in the 

Site Performance Survey Questionnaire forms. These data will then be entered by the Survey 

Technician into the FSSD. The FSSD provides a QC check by providing the user with the 

appropriate ranges for the data being entered. After each site survey data set is entered the data 

tables will be backed up. Once three sites have been surveyed, the Survey Technician will send 

the files and forms to EEMS (in merchandise return envelopes). 

At EEMS, the QA Manager will oversee receipt and log of the data package from the field, and 

the duplicate entry of numeric data from the forms into the FSSD. Backups of the data will be 

created after data from each site has been entered. The FSSD will then reveal any discrepancies, 

the QA Manager and the Project Manager will review the available records in order to reconcile 

any discrepancies. A backup of the data will be created once the data has gone through this QC 

process. The completed Site Performance Survey Questionnaire forms will become part of the 

Site Survey File together with any other reports generated by the FSSD. Figure 3 provides a 

schematic diagram of the data management. 

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Figure 3. Schematic Diagram of Data Management 

NADP QA 

Manager 

U.S. EPA 

Project Officer 


& Database 

Administrator 

Automated 

QC Checks 

Duplicate 

Data Entry 

Electronic Data 

and Hard Copies 

Automated 

QC Checks 

QA Manager 

Hard Copies 

Technical 

Assistant QA Staff 

Survey 

Technician 

Assistant Project 

Manager & Survey 

Team Leader 

Survey 

Technician 

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3.0 GROUP C: Assessment and Oversight 

The purpose of the NADP Site Survey Program is to ensure that good QA/QC practices are being 

applied as defined in the NADP Quality Management Plan (2003-01) and associated network 

quality assurance plans. The assessment of each NADP site is strictly controlled by the 

implementation of the NADP Site Survey Program QAPP. 

3.1 C1 – Assessments and Response Actions 

The NADP Site Survey Program is an external assessment program for the NADP. It is EEMS’ 

goal to review 100% of the data generated during the period of this contract. In order to 

accomplish this goal, EEMS implements an internal assessment program along with an 

independent assessment program. The internal assessment begins with the review of SOPs, field 

forms, database and other data management tools by the Survey Technicians. Any concerns 

and/or suggestions are addressed by the QA Manager and the Project Manager. The QA Manager 

and the Project Manager are also responsible for database assessments. The QA Manager and 

Field Team Leader are responsible for assessments related to field techniques. In the event that 

the assessment program identifies problems with project data, as it pertains to data generation, 

data entry, data management or data reporting, response actions will be triggered. The nature of 

these actions will depend upon the severity and type of problem encountered, and will begin with 

a review of project procedures related to the identified problem. 

3.1.1 C1.1 – Preventive Response Actions 

These measures will be directed at preventing the identified problem from being repeated, and 

include the implementation of high-level monitoring of project activities associated with the 

problem to prevent further deviations; and initiation of a system of audits that will include 

random and unannounced evaluations of personnel and equipment to determine if procedures 

outlined in the QAPP are being followed. The project manager will be responsible for 

implementing corrective measures to address identified deviations from the QAPP. 

3.1.2 C1.2 – Corrective Response Action 

This measure will result in a correction of the problem and replacement of the problematic data 

with data that meet the project objectives. Corrective action will require re-entry of all 

questionable data into the FSSD. 

3.1.3 C1.3 – Independent Assessments 

Independent assessments are preformed by QA consultant, Dr. Peter Finkelstein who will perform 

an independent review of SOPs, QAPP, QMP, and annual reports. Other independent assessments 

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are performed by the NADP and subcommittees and EPA who review the SOPs, QAPP and 

annual reports. 

After review and approval of the QAPP and SOPs and, if necessary, any training of Survey 

Technicians, the QA Manager will perform independent assessments of Survey Technicians. The 

goal of the assessments will be to evaluate the field techniques used by the Survey Technicians, 

and the applicability of the survey procedures. 

Reports of the assessment will be included in the Annual Report. The reports will discuss the 

effectiveness of the survey technique and procedures in meeting the goals of the NADP and EPA. 

3.2 C2 – Reports to Management 

EEMS will produce monthly reports indicating progress and significant activities from the 

previous month as well as activities planned for the following month. This monthly report will be 

distributed to the EPA Project Officer and Contract Specialist. 

Included as part the monthly reports there will be a summary of the latest deliverables to the 

appropriate organizations, a summary of any current project problems uncovered during the 

internal assessments mentioned above, or any deficiencies in meeting deliverable deadlines or 

quality assurance goals, and a list of outstanding actions awaiting EPA Project Officer 

authorization. 

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4.0 GROUP D: Data Validation and Usability Elements 

This section addresses the QA activities that take place after data are collected during the site 

survey process. 

4.1 D1 – Data Review, Verification, and Validation 

It is EEMS’ goal to review 100% of the data collected during site surveys. This is accomplished 

during the various stages of data entry and verification. It begins with the entry of field-collected 

data into the FSSD by the Survey Technician and the built-in database warnings when entered 

data is out of the expected range. This is followed by double entry of the same data into the 

FSSD by a different EEMS Technician, and the reconciliation of discrepancies encountered by 

the FSSD. 

Maintaining current and valid certification of survey standards ensures that survey data are valid. 

Valid survey data in turn ensures that NADP data are valid. The QA Manager will report any 

certification results that would impact survey results if a standard was used for the survey that 

was found to be inaccurate. Any data qualifiers will be reported to EPA and other users. 

4.2 D2 – Verification and Validation Methods 

Data generated during the site surveys will be recorded by the Survey Technician on forms. 

Historical data will be verified or corrected during the survey. These data will then be entered 

into the FSSD which provides the user with warnings when data entered does not meet the criteria 

ascribed to a particular field. This will provide a second layer of verification. Field data will be 

entered a second time by another EEMS team member into the FSSD. The FSSD will then reveal 

any discrepancies between the two sets of data. These discrepancies will be reconciled by the QA 

Manager and the Project Manager by further scrutinizing the original field forms and if necessary, 

consulting with the Survey Technician or site operator. 

Data validation methods for this project will consist of maintaining current any required 

certifications of standards used in the performance of the site surveys. Both data verification and 

validation methods will be used for data collected during site surveys. Some data collected will 

be observations made by the Survey Technician for which no instrumentation is required. Other 

data collected during the site survey may be measurements made by instruments, or responses 

from standards that require certification to a reference. All data will be verified, but only data 

collected by a measurement process will require validation. 

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All survey results will be range tested during the database entry process. All calculations of 

average errors, maximum errors, and linear regressions will be performed during the data 

collection process while completing the hardcopy field forms. The calculations will be repeated 

automatically as data entry in the database is completed for each form. The results of the 

calculations will then be compared thereby automatically checking the data entry. Discrepancies 

will be investigated and errors will be resolved. 

This process will resolve errors prior to data being available to the users. If a survey standard is 

found to be in error the questionable data will be reported to the users when the error is 

discovered. Questionable survey data will be identified and corrective actions reported in the 

next report of results. 

Results from the NADP Site Survey Program will be conveyed to the users by means of a number 

of deliverables. These consist of hardcopy reports (Spot Report, Site Performance Survey Report, 

Monthly and Annual Report) and electronic data tables to be imported by the NADP PO into their 

data management system. 

The Spot Report will address the following items: 

• Site, and site operator’s information 

• Immediate action items necessary to restore proper function to the site 

• Any required site supplies or maintenance items 

• Summary of survey activities 

The Spot Report will be submitted as a hardcopy to the site supervisor and operator, NADP QA 

Manager and the EPA Project Officer at the completion of the site survey. 

The Site Performance Survey Report will be generated by the FSSD once all the data entered for 

a site has undergone all the QA/QC stages. It is comprised of all the information gathered, and 

data recorded while conducting the survey and completing the Site Performance Survey 

Questionnaire forms. It covers all the areas covered during the survey: site information, siting 

criteria, all the instruments and equipment, site operator’s assessment, and field laboratory. The 

Site Performance Survey Report will be submitted in electronic format within 15 days after 

completion of the site survey. 

The Monthly Progress Report will be prepared for the EPA Project Officer indicating progress 

and significant activities from the previous month as well as activities planned for the following 

month. 

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Section D 

Revision: 1 


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The Annual Report will be a summary of the sites visited to include the overall status of the sites, 

problems encountered, and how these problems may be impacting the performance of the 

network. The report will provide information on the status of important performance measures, 

and will describe any significant events or changes to the networks that would affect 

interpretations of results, the quality of data produced by the program and any limitation in using 

the data. 

4.3 D3 – Reconciliation with User Requirements 

The survey program and results will be reviewed by the NADP PO and EPA Project Officer to 

identify changes or new requirements. The program documentation will be updated with any 

changes in program requirements. Survey results and network operation assessments will be 

discussed with users at management meetings. Recommendations for improvements to the 

program will be incorporated following periodic program review by EPA and data users. 

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Appendix A. 

NADP Site Survey Program Standard Operating Procedures

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 

Quality Assurance/Quality Control Documentation 

Title: 

NTN Site Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures 

(NADP INSTALLATIONS) 

Document Number 

SOP-EPW07061-1010 

Date: September 2007 

Authorizations 

Title Name Affiliation Signature 

Author Eric Hebert EEMS 

Project Manager Maria Jones EEMS 

QA Manager Keith Halbrook EEMS 


Revision 

No. 

Revision History 

Description Date Authorization 

0 Sept 2007 

1 Michael Kolian’s commnets May 2008

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NTN Site Performance Survey SOP 

Document No.: SOP-EPW07061-1010 

Revision No. 1 

Date: May 2008 

Page 3 of 26 


1.0 Scope and Applicability...............................................................................................7 

1.1 Typical NTN Site Installations.........................................................................................8 

1.2 Preliminary Survey Activities ..........................................................................................8 

1.2.1 Preliminary Site Survey File ............................................................................... 11 

1.2.2 Site Survey Kit .................................................................................................... 11 

2.0 Summary of Methods ................................................................................................12 

2.1 Instrument Specific Methods .........................................................................................12 

3.0 Health and Safety Warnings.....................................................................................13 

3.1 Electrical ........................................................................................................................13 

3.1.1 Lockout Tag-out.................................................................................................. 13 

3.2 Remote Locations ..........................................................................................................14 

3.3 Travel and Driving .........................................................................................................14 

4.0 Personnel Qualifications............................................................................................14 

4.1 Training..........................................................................................................................15 

5.0 Equipment and Supplies ...........................................................................................15 

5.1 Survey Tools and Materials ...........................................................................................15 

6.0 Instrument or Method Calibration and Standardization ......................................16 

6.1 Standard Weights ...........................................................................................................16 

6.1.1 Instrument Sensitivity to Weight/Mass ............................................................... 16 

6.2 Temperature Checks.......................................................................................................17 

6.3 Voltage Checks ..............................................................................................................17 

7.0 Troubleshooting .........................................................................................................17 

7.1 Site Survey Instrument Function....................................................................................18 

8.0 Data Acquisition, Calculations, and Reduction ......................................................18 

8.1 Post-Site Survey Procedures ..........................................................................................18 

8.1.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................... 19 

8.2 Manual Data Acquisition ...............................................................................................21 

8.3 Electronic Data Acquisition ...........................................................................................21 

8.4 Data Entry and Verification of Calculation Results.......................................................21 

8.5 Spot Report Generation and Distribution.......................................................................21 

9.0 Computer Hardware and Software..........................................................................21 

9.1 Field Laptop Computer ..................................................................................................21 

9.2 Computer Software ........................................................................................................21 

9.2.1 Field Data Backup............................................................................................... 21 

10.0 Data Management and Records Management......................................................21 

10.1 Shipping and Tracking ...................................................................................................21 

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10.2 Duplicate Data Entry and Reconciliation.......................................................................21 

10.3 Final Data Set.................................................................................................................21 

10.3.1 Site Survey Performance Report ................................................................... 21 

10.3.2 Electronic Data Delivery ............................................................................... 21 

11.0 Quality Control and Quality Assurance ................................................................21 

11.1 Review Verification and Vigilance................................................................................21 

11.2 Reporting and Accountability ........................................................................................21 

11.2.1 Active Communication.................................................................................. 21 


Table 1. Preliminary Site Communication Information ………………………….….. 9 

Table 2. Initial Site Information ……………………………….………………….…. 9 

Table 3. Instrument Specific Methods ……………………………………………...... 12 


Figure 1. NADP Pre-Audit Site Information NTN Site WA14……………………….. 10 

Figure 2. User Type Selection Menu…………..…………….……….……………….. 19 

Figure 3. NADP Survey Database – Office Version Main Menu………..……............ 19 

Figure 4. NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main Menu ……………..………. 20 

Figure 5. Enter Survey Data Menu ……………………………………………………. 20 

Figure 6. Site Information Form (Field Form)………………………………………… 20 

Figure 7. Preview Reports Menu………………………………………………………. 21 


CAL 

CD 

DAS 

DCN 

EDD 

EEMS 

EPA 

FORF 

FSAD 

FSSD 


compact disc 

data acquisition system 

document control number 

electronic data delivery 

Environmental Engineering & Measurement Services, Inc. 


Field Observer Report Form 

Field Site Audit Database 


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GPS 

ISWS 

LOTO 

NADP 

NIST 

NTN 

PDA 

PO 

QAPP 

SOP 

Global Positioning System 


lockout tag-out 




Personal Digital Assistant 



standard operating procedure 

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1.0 Scope and Applicability 

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) describes an overview of the procedures for 

conducting performance surveys of National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) National 

Trends Network (NTN) field stations. The NADP is a cooperative, multi-agency program of 

monitoring stations designed to measure precipitation chemistry and estimate atmospheric 

deposition of various pollutant ions and mercury. The NTN is one of the three networks of the 

NADP and is focused on long-term trends of precipitation chemistry and estimations of wet 

atmospheric deposition. Various local, state, and federal agencies, as well as universities and 

other interested groups are responsible for, and contribute to, the operation of the stations. More 

specific instructions are provided in separate SOPs for each measurement system usually found at 

a NTN station. Those systems include precipitation gauges, precipitation collectors, and 

weighing devices (balance or scales). The individual SOPs are referenced in Section 5.0 

Equipment and Supplies of this SOP. 

The purpose of a performance survey is to assess the field measurement process under normal 

operating conditions, “as found”, without any special preparation or adjustment of the system. 

Performance survey results are used to ensure the measurement process and data collection 

systems are operating within the project acceptance criteria as defined in the NTN Quality 

Assurance Project Plan (QAPP). Proper implementation of a survey (or audit) program will 

ensure data integrity and assess data accuracy. 

NTN Site Performance Surveys include: 

• Verifying that the site equipment and associated systems are capable of making valid and 

accurate measurements. 

• Verifying that the precipitation collector is operating within the specifications of the NTN 

QAPP and capable of collecting valid samples. 

• Challenging each measurement device (gauge, balance, or scale) with an independent 

audit standard [traceable to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or 

other authoritative standard] to determine if the device is operating within defined project 

accuracy goals provided in the NTN QAPP. 

• Performing routine maintenance and/or minor repairs if necessary to return the site 

equipment to operation within the designated specifications. 

• Subsequently re-challenging and/or retesting the equipment. 

• Documenting the survey results and activities (pre and post-maintenance) using the 

appropriate form(s) and Field Site Survey Database (FSSD). 

• Documenting any condition that affects data quality or that requires additional attention 

using the appropriate form(s) and FSSD. 

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• Distributing the survey results, reports, and documentation to the designated project 

personnel. 

1.1 Typical NTN Site Installations 

The NTN Site Performance Survey program is intended to assess the operation of each site in the 

network. The network currently consists of approximately 250 sites throughout the United States, 

Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the Virgin Islands. The number and location of operational sites varies 

at any time. A list of active sites and locations can be found in the “Quality Assurance Project 

Plan (QAPP) – Support for Conducting Systems and Performance Surveys of National 

Atmospheric Monitoring Stations” (referred to from this point on as NADP Site Survey Program 

QAPP). An updated list may be available on the NADP website: http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu/. 

The program goal is to visit and survey approximately 90 total sites per year from the three 

individual networks, and each site in the NADP once approximately every three years. The 

current survey schedule can be found at ftp://67.192.214.230 in the NADP Final directory. 

Specific equipment at each site can vary, but each site will consist of an approved precipitation 

gauge, an approved precipitation collector, a sample weighing device, equipment manuals, 

approved operating procedures, and site supplies. The approved NTN measurement and sampling 

equipment includes: 

• Belfort 5-780 Mechanical Precipitation Gauge 

• Aerochem Metrics (ACM type) Precipitation Collector 

• ETI NOAH IV Electronic Precipitation Gauge 

• OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge 

• Ohaus Mechanical Balance 

• Various electronic scales 

1.2 Preliminary Survey Activities 

Due to the number and location of the sites in the network, the NTN site survey program is a 

travel intensive project. In order to maintain an efficient schedule and quality product, frequent 

and concise communication with project personnel is required. Prior to beginning travel, the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Project Officer, site liaisons at the NADP Program 

Office (PO), and the Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL), at the Illinois State Water Survey 

(ISWS) must be contacted. Their contact information is listed below: 

• Michael Kolian 202-343-9261 kolian.michael@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

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• Melissa Rury 202-343-9882 rury.melissa@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

• Mark Rhodes 217-244-6413 Rhodes1@illinois.edu NADP QA Manager 

• Matt Layden 217-244-0372 ntn@sws.uiuc.edu CAL Liaison 

• Roger Claybrooke 217-244-2838 dclay@sws.uiuc.edu NADP PO 

In order to adhere to the schedule set forth in the NADP Site Survey Program QAPP, the above 

listed personnel must be contacted no less than one month prior to the planned date of the site 

survey. The initial communication must include the information contained in Table 1 for each 

planned site survey. 



Site #1 

NTN 

Site #2 

Site #3 

: 

Information obtained from the NADP liaisons during the preliminary communication should 

include the information contained in Table 2 below for each site. 





Precipitation gauge (manufacturer, model) 

Collector (manufacturer, model) 





Logistical concerns (i.e., passes or keys required, etc) 



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Figure 1 is an example of the initial site information for site WA14 as received from the NADP 

PO. 

Figure 1. NADP Pre-Audit Site Information NTN Site WA14 

After obtaining the site contact information from the site liaisons, the site operators and 

supervisors for each site in the planned trip must be contacted by telephone at least two weeks 

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prior to the planned site visit. If the planned survey will be the first survey for a particular site 

(i.e., Previous Survey Date = null), the site sponsor for that site will also be contacted by phone 

and notified of the survey. 

Discussions with the site personnel will include logistics pertaining to accessing the site, date and 

time of the planned site survey, any modifications that may have been performed on the site 

instrumentation, and any operational problems that may exist at the site. All relevant information 

will be added to the data gathered during the preliminary communication with the site liaisons. 

Once the initial communication with the site liaisons and site operators has occurred, the 

comprehensive information obtained for each site will be compiled and included in a Site Survey 

File. 

1.2.1 Preliminary Site Survey File 

During these preliminary survey activities, the Site Survey File will contain the compiled 

comprehensive information obtained during the preliminary communication and data gathering 

process described above. The information for each site will include records of phone calls, e-mail 

correspondence, and completed site information data tables. 

The file will become a permanent historical record of site survey information and documentation. 

It will be assigned a Document Control Number (DCN) and will become part of the site survey 

data management system. Appropriate site information obtained thus far will be entered (or 

imported) into the FSSD. Initial site data forms will then be generated and included in the Site 

Survey File and copied and included in the Site Survey Kit to be provided to the Survey 

Technician responsible for conducting the site survey. 

1.2.2 Site Survey Kit 

At this step in the performance survey procedures, a Site Survey Kit will be prepared at EEMS. 

The Site Survey Kit will be assembled utilizing the preliminary information gathered for each 

site. The site-specific tools, equipment, maintenance items, forms, certification records, Personal 

Digital Assistant (PDA), field computer with FSSD, and survey supplies required to perform the 

survey of each site in the planned trip will be inventoried and packed for shipment. 

Arrangements will be made with the Survey Technician for the shipment of the kit to the field. 

Upon receipt of the Site Survey Kit, the Survey Technician will inspect the kit and report any 

damage or missing articles. After completing any additional shipments that may be necessary, 

the Site Survey Kit inventory and shipping log will be included in the Site Survey File. 

The EEMS QA Manager will oversee the process of completing the preliminary Site Survey File, 

and providing the Survey Technician with the required materials to complete the planned surveys. 

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Once receipt of the complete and functional survey kit is confirmed by the Survey Technician, the 

preliminary Site Survey File is complete. Post-survey information will be included following the 

site visit and survey by the Survey Technician. 

2.0 Summary of Methods 

General methods used for performing a NTN Site Performance Survey will include the 

completion of the preliminary survey activities described in the previous sections and then: 

• Traveling to the site and challenging or testing each measurement and collection device 

according to the SOP for that device, 

• Recoding the observed and collected data on the appropriate form, 

• Performing any routine maintenance, adjustment, or minor repair, 

• Repeating the challenge or test of the device, 

• Recording the results of the additional challenge or test, 

• Entering the recorded data into the FSSD and backing up the files, 

• Generating the exit report (Spot Report) of the survey activities from the FSSD within 24 

hours of completing the survey, 

• Transferring the hardcopy recorded data and the electronic FSSD files to the EEMS data 

management facility, 

• Verbally reporting the results of the survey to the site liaison with any requests for 

additional attention or activities to be performed at the site within 24 hours of completing 

the survey. 

The specific methods used to complete a challenge or test of the measurement and collection 

equipment and instrumentation at each site are unique for the type of equipment and the 

instrumentation present at the particular NTN site. Specific SOPs have been developed for that 

purpose. 

2.1 Instrument Specific Methods 

The list of approved NTN site equipment and instrumentation is presented in Section 1.1. The 

preliminary survey activities identify which of the listed types of instrumentation are present at 

each site. Table 3 identifies the specific SOP for the equipment or instrumentation type. 

Table 3. Instrument Specific Methods 

SOP Name SOP Number Revision Number Revision Date 

Belfort 5-780 Precipitation Gauge SOP-EPW07061-1400 1 May 2008 

OTT NADP Pluvio Precipitation Gauge SOP-EPW07061-1410 1 May 2008 

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ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge SOP-EPW07061-1420 1 May 2008 

ACM NTN Precipitation Collector SOP-EPW07061-1310 1 May 2008 

Ohaus Mechanical Balance SOP-EPW07061-1210 1 May 2008 

Using this SOP and those presented in Table 3, any currently operating NTN site can be 

surveyed. As new equipment or instrumentation is approved for use at NTN sites, new methods 

and procedures will be developed to challenge and test that equipment and instrumentation. 

Those methods will be incorporated into this SOP and Table 3. 

3.0 Health and Safety Warnings 

The NADP Site Survey Program and NTN Site Performance Survey requires travel to various 

locations and assessing the condition and operation of electrical devices. As such there are some 

health and safety warnings and cautions that must be observed. 

3.1 Electrical 

The sample collection devices, and some of the precipitation gauges, are powered by 120 volt AC 

power. This is the typical household electrical service which powers most common appliances. 

The same cautions practiced for any device powered by this means should be observed for the site 

equipment. 

In some cases the power may be delivered using extension cords or buried electrical wires. 

Particular attention should be paid to the manner and condition of the power supply and 

distribution. No digging or under-ground probing should be conducted without first identifying 

all buried services. 

Prior to removing any instrument electrical service covers or fuses, disconnect the power source 

to the instrument. This can be accomplished by unplugging the power cord or tuning off the 

circuit breaker and employing a proper “lockout tag-out” (LOTO) procedure. 

3.1.1 Lockout Tag-out 

LOTO procedures are intended to protect survey personnel and technicians from electrical 

hazards while troubleshooting and servicing electrical equipment. If the power supply to the 

device is not in the direct control of the technician, LOTO procedures must be used to ensure that 

the power is not supplied to the device during the activities. This is accomplished by locating the 

source of the power (electrical outlet or circuit distribution panel) and disconnecting the power 

source. Unplugging the cord or turning the circuit breaker off will then disconnect the power. In 

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rare instances it may be necessary to disconnect the main power supply or main breaker that 

supplies power to all of the circuits in the distribution panel. 

After the power supply has been disconnected access to the panel or outlet must be locked and 

tagged with a notice for other personnel that service is being conducted on a component of that 

circuit. This is intended to prevent the circuit from being activated by other personnel that may 

enter the area and not realize that a technician is working on a device on that circuit. 

3.2 Remote Locations 

Some of the stations in the NTN are located in remote areas. Access to the site may be limited to 

hiking trails. The trails may be mountainous, or rugged and steep, and at high elevations. Shelter 

may not be available at the site location. Caution and care should be exercised to prevent 

overexertion when accessing these sites. Protective clothing and boots should be worn, and 

adequate fluids should be available for the duration of the site visit. 

3.3 Travel and Driving 

By far the most dangerous activity undertaken during the site survey program is travel by driving 

to the site locations. All safety regulations recommended for the operation of motor vehicles 

must be observed. This includes the use of seatbelts and shoulder restraints. 

All operators must have a valid operator’s license and the insurance required by both the issuing 

agency and the contract (or subcontract) clauses. 

The consumption of alcohol or other drugs that may cause impairment are not permitted prior to 

or while operating a motor vehicle. 

Extended travel and long working hours can cause stress and fatigue. These conditions can 

adversely affect ones ability to operate a motor vehicle. Personnel must be aware of stress and 

fatigue levels and not operate a motor vehicle under these conditions. Personnel are urged to get 

the necessary rest required to stay alert while driving. 

4.0 Personnel Qualifications 

This SOP (and those referenced) is intended to be used by experienced field and instrument 

technicians. All site survey team personnel are experienced field site specialists with many years 

of direct involvement with deposition monitoring sites. That involvement includes the 

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installation, repair, maintenance, calibration, and operation of precipitation gauges, precipitation 

collectors, meteorological instrumentation, ambient air samplers, and gaseous analyzers. 

Additional training will be provided to the survey team as new instruments and equipment are 

approved for use in the NTN. Procedures for testing and challenging any new equipment will be 

developed with the cooperation of the NADP and subcommittees. 

4.1 Training 

If training is required at any time during the performance of the NADP Site Survey Program due 

to changes to personnel, training will be provided by the Survey Team Leader. All new personnel 

will be trained by accompanying the Survey Team Leader to as many field sites as necessary to 

become proficient with the survey procedures. 

5.0 Equipment and Supplies 

Together with this SOP, the individual instrument SOPs listed here are required for conducting 

performance surveys at NTN designated NADP precipitation collection stations. They are 

intended to be used by qualified technicians that understand general instrument operation and 

survey techniques. The following SOPs provide technical guidance and detailed information 

regarding specific NADP NTN site survey procedures: 

• SOP-EPW07061-1400 − Belfort Precipitation Gauge Standard Operating Procedures, 

(NADP Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1410 − OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Gauge Standard Operating 

Procedures, (NADP Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1420 − ETI NOAH IV Electronic Precipitation Gauge Standard 

Operating Procedures (NADP Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1310 − ACM NTN Precipitation Collector Standard Operating 

Procedures (NADP Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1210 − Ohaus Mechanical Balance Standard Operating Procedures 


• SOP-EPW07061-1210 − Various Electronic Scales Standard Operating Procedures 


5.1 Survey Tools and Materials 

In addition to the specific instruments and equipment listed in the individual SOPs, the following 

materials are required to perform NADP NTN site surveys: 

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• NADP NTN QAPP 

• Site Survey File for each site in the planned trip 

• Hardcopy data forms (forms provided in each Site Survey File) 

• Laptop computer with approved FSSD 

• Global Positioning System (GPS) 

• Miscellaneous recordkeeping supplies 

• Manufacturer's instruction manuals 

6.0 Instrument or Method Calibration and Standardization 

Each method used to challenge or test a measurement or collection device deployed at NADP 

NTN site will be referenced to a carefully calibrated and certified standard. The rational and 

development of those procedures is discussed below. 

6.1 Standard Weights 

The majority of challenges performed on measurement systems at NTN sites will be the use of a 

standard weight to simulate precipitation and then comparing the instrument response to the 

equivalent precipitation that corresponds to the standard weight. The equivalent precipitation 

amount is a function of the size of the opening in the particular precipitation gauge and the 

calibration of the gauge itself. 

In order to accurately determine the equivalent precipitation amount, an accurate measurement of 

each standard weight must be performed. This will be accomplished at the EEMS facility with a 

precision electronic balance. The balance will be certified annually by an independent 

organization using standard reference methods and materials. EEMS will check the calibration of 

the balance prior to each use with transfer weights that are certified at the time of the balance 

certification. The balance calibration weights will be maintained at the EEMS facility in a 

manner that protects their condition and weight. 

6.1.1 Instrument Sensitivity to Weight/Mass 

The various precipitation gauges approved for NTN respond differently to the weight applied to 

the catch basin. For example the Belfort gauges respond with an equivalent precipitation amount 

of approximately one inch when a weight of approximately 825 grams is added to the bucket. 

This will be the smallest standard weight used for the Belfort gauges, and measured to the 

hundredth of one inch. The electronic ETI and OTT NADP Pluvio gauges are more sensitive and 

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will be challenged with much smaller weights that correspond to precipitation amounts of 0.25 

and 0.50 inches. 

All weights will be checked and their weight documented at EEMS during the preparation of the 

Site Survey Kit. Using the precisely measured weight the corresponding equivalent precipitation 

amount will be calculated for the intended gauge and included with the kit. The weights will be 

properly packed and handled in order to preserve their condition during the site survey trips. 

6.2 Temperature Checks 

Precipitation collector operation is triggered by a sensor that detects the presence of precipitation. 

The sensor is heated to evaporate the precipitation following an event so the collector does not 

remain open exposing the sample. 

The temperature of the sensor will be measured by a transfer temperature probe that is calibrated 

and referenced to a standard. This will be performed annually and the results documented in each 

Site Survey Kit, and in each Site Survey File. 

6.3 Voltage Checks 

The NTN Site Performance Surveys will include various voltage checks of the instruments and 

equipment. Those checks will be performed using a certified multimeter. The multimeter will be 

certified annually by an independent organization. Certification documentation will be included 

with each Site Survey Kit, and each Site Survey File. 

7.0 Troubleshooting 

One function of the NADP Site Survey Program is the routine maintenance and minor repair of 

the site equipment to continue or restore the operation to the NADP specifications. In order to 

perform this function some troubleshooting of malfunctioning equipment or instrumentation may 

be necessary. The instructions provided to site operators by the NADP PO and the manuals 

provided by the instrument manufacturers will be utilized to perform the troubleshooting 

procedures. The experience of the site Survey Technician will ensure exceptional 

troubleshooting techniques. 

The list of items that are routinely addressed during a NTN Site Performance Survey is included 

in Table 6 of the NADP Site Survey Program QAPP. 

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7.1 Site Survey Instrument Function 

The tools, instruments, standards, and materials that make up each Site Survey Kit are carefully 

controlled, tested, calibrated and maintained by the EEMS QA staff. This process is intended to 

ensure proper and accurate function when the kit is used in the field. Should any of the items 

malfunction during a site survey trip, troubleshooting will be performed in the same manner by 

the site survey team with the assistance of the EEMS QA Manager. 

If any field repairs are performed on items in the survey kit, the EEMS QA Manager will 

determine if the certification of that item and survey results measured by that item are 

compromised. If necessary a replacement item will be sent to the Survey Technician to ensure 

accurate survey results. 

8.0 Data Acquisition, Calculations, and Reduction 

Data acquisition at most of the NTN sites is accomplished by visual observations, made by site 

operators, and site instrument measurements on hardcopy media (rain gauge charts). These are 

manually recorded to hardcopy forms by the site operator and then sent to the CAL. As 

electronic precipitation gauges are deployed at NTN sites data acquisition will be accomplished 

by radio transmission to handheld data devices and then electronically sent to the CAL. Some 

sites will also employ direct telemetry from the site equipment to the CAL. 

Data acquisition for systems surveys of NADP sites will be accomplished by recording the 

information described in the previous sections onto data forms. Recorded data will then be 

entered into the FSSD as described in the following sections. 

8.1 Post-Site Survey Procedures 

At this point the information gathered during the site survey will be recorded on the data forms 

associated with data collection for each measurement process or system. The data forms 

comprise the complete Site Survey Questionnaire which is included in Appendix B. 

The recorded data must be entered into the FSSD and used to generate reports and database files 

that can be used by the EPA, the NADP PO, and other data users. The method and tasks to be 

completed after recording survey data are described in the following sections. 

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8.1.1 Data Entry 

The FSSD is a Microsoft Access ® 2003 application. The database is a relational set of data tables 

that are designed to store records of the data recorded during the site survey. Data are entered 

into the data tables using data entry forms. The forms are similar to the hardcopy forms provided 

in the each SOP. The forms and menus are presented in the following sections. A complete 

description of the FSSD can be found in the FSSD User’s Manual. 

8.1.1.1 User Type Selection Menu 

Because the FSSD is used by field personnel as well as office 

personnel, two sets of forms, functions, reports and tables 

exists, one for field use and one for office use. The first screen 

viewed when the FSSD is opened is a screen which allows 

access to either office personnel or field personnel to the 

corresponding forms, function and repots. Figure 2 shows this 

first screen. 

Figure 2. User Type 

Selection Menu 

8.1.1.2 NADP Survey Database – Office Version Main 

Menu 

The buttons on the Office Version main menu provide access 

to reports and forms contained in the database. Figure 3 

shows the different options the user can choose from: 

• Import Preliminary Data 

• Generate Field Forms 

• Import Field Data 

• Site Selection Form 

• Enter Survey data 

• Run QA/QC Checks 

• Export Field Data 

• Preview Reports 

• Prepare EDD for NADP 

• Database Maintenance 

Figure 3. NADP Survey Database – 

Office Version Main Menu 

8.1.1.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main Menu 

The Field Version of the NADP Survey Database provides fewer options than the Office Version 

given that there are a number of functions that are not performed in the field, or by field 

personnel. The buttons on the Field Version main menu provide access to reports and forms 

contained in the database. Figure 4 shows the different options the user can choose form: 

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• Enter Survey Data 


• Preview Spot Report 



Field Version Main Menu 

8.1.1.4 Enter Survey Data 

The Enter Survey Data menu (Figure 5) allows the user to 

select the site and form for which to enter data. This menu 

provides the user with the following options: 


• Site Information Form 

• Siting Criteria Form 

• Belfort Gage Form 

• Electronic Gage Form 

• NWS Stick Gage Form 

• ACM Collector Form 

• N-CON Collector Form 

• Backup Raingage Form 

Figure 5. Enter Survey Data Menu 

• Field Laboratory Form 

• Field Supplies Form 

• Site Object Form 

8.1.1.5 Typical Data Entry Form 

From the Enter Survey Data Menu the user can select from a 

number of forms. The one shown in Figure 6 is the Site 

Information Form used by field personnel. The station ID, 

network, site name, operator information and other general 

information pertaining to the site is included in this form. 

For the most part these forms consist of a number of 

questions for which the user must select the most 

File location 

Figure 6. Site Information Form 

(Field Form) 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 21 of 26 

appropriate answer from a drop-down menu. However there are some questions that require a 

numeric input or a text input that is not a drop-down selection. Those fields highlighted in blue 

constitute data that is then include in the site Spot Report. 

8.1.1.6 Preview Report Menu 

From this menu the user can select the site and report from the following 

options (Figure 7): 

• Revised Spot Reports 

• Site Survey Reports 

• Field Spot Report 

• QA Report 

8.2 Manual Data Acquisition 

Figure 7. Preview 

Reports Menu 

The site operators are required to interpret the hardcopy charts and calculate the daily and weekly 

total precipitation on the various network observer report forms. Those procedures will be 

verified and assessed as part of the systems survey. The calculations performed by the site 

operator will be checked for accuracy as part of the site systems survey. 

8.3 Electronic Data Acquisition 

Electronic data recorded by the measurement devices that utilize those methods will be checked 

as part of the performance survey. The survey tests will account for the combined error from 

both the measurement instrument and the internal data acquisition system (DAS). 

Where possible the transfer of the electronic data from the internal DAS to the handheld device 

will be verified as part of the systems survey. The verification will include checks for 

completeness and accuracy. This may be accomplished by manually transferring data from the 

DAS to the site survey computer and comparing that file to data transferred automatically to the 

handheld device. 

8.4 Data Entry and Verification of Calculation Results 

Upon completion of the site performance survey, data recorded on the survey data forms will be 

entered into the FSSD. The database will perform automatic calculations from the data entered, 

and those results will be compared to results obtained by the manual calculations. 

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Any discrepancies observed will be resolved by the site Survey Technician at the time of data 

entry. This procedure serves as the first review and verification of survey results. Additional 

review, verification, and validation processes are described in Sections 10.0 and 11.0. 

8.5 Spot Report Generation and Distribution 

Following data entry the Survey Technician will generate a Portable Document Format (PDF) 

Spot Report from the FSSD report menu which summarizes the activities performed during the 

site survey. Required site supplies and Instruments that require additional attention are 

highlighted. The spot report is distributed to the site operator, site supervisor, NADP QA 

Manager, EPA Project Officer, EEMS Project Manger, and the EEMS QA Manager. 

9.0 Computer Hardware and Software 

Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data at the NTN sites. 

Some sites utilize handheld data devices as previously described, and their use is anticipated to 

increase as more electronic gauges are installed. 

Site survey data will be recorded on hardcopy forms and then entered into a database installed on 

a field laptop computer. 

9.1 Field Laptop Computer 

The Survey Technician will have an IBM ® compatible field laptop computer to be used to record 

and manage the site survey data. The laptop will be suitable for field use in terms of battery 

operation, portability, and sturdiness. 

9.2 Computer Software 

The field computer will have a Microsoft Windows ® operating system. Microsoft Office ® and 

Microsoft Access ® will be used to develop the FSSD which will be the database used to manage 

the survey results. The FSSD and examples of the types of forms and screens have been 

discussed in Section 8.0 and subsections. 

After data entry the required Spot Report can be generated and distributed. This will contain the 

maintenance items required (if any) at the site. The electronic data tables will also be generated 

and exported to the duplicate database at EEMS. 

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9.2.1 Field Data Backup 

Each Site Survey Kit will contain a “thumb drive” (or flash) memory device capable of storing all 

the data tables containing the survey data, and digital photos acquired during the site survey trip. 

After entering the survey data for each site, all data will be copied to the thumb drive for backup. 

This procedure will continue for each site in the survey trip. At the conclusion of the trip, the 

thumb drive will be sent with the final hardcopy data forms from the last site visited, separately 

from the field computer which at this point will also contain a copy of the same information. 

Prior to the field computer and Site Survey Kit being sent back to EEMS, two copies of the site 

survey data tables and all other information (digital photos, electronic reports, etc) will be written 

to compact disc (CD). One disc will be included with the Site Survey Kit and returned to EEMS, 

and one disc will be kept by the Survey Technician for his or her records. 

10.0 Data Management and Records Management 

Most of the data and records management procedures have been discussed throughout the 

previous sections. Particularly the preliminary Site Survey File data gathering process and the 

field site survey data gathering and management processes. This section and subsequent 

subsections describes the management of the final site survey data and Site Survey File at EEMS. 

10.1 Shipping and Tracking 

As mentioned in Subsection 1.2.2, prior to conducting site visits, the Site Survey File will contain 

all the preliminary information gathered, and the record of shipment and receipt of the Site 

Survey Kit. As information is received at EEMS following site visits, it is logged and that record 

is added to the Site Survey File. 

The QA Manager will oversee the process of receiving the electronic data export from the field 

and the importation of that data into the duplicate database at EEMS. After the original hardcopy 

data forms have been received and logged the duplicate data entry process will begin. 

10.2 Duplicate Data Entry and Reconciliation 

As a QC check, duplicate data entry will be performed for designated site survey data fields, most 

of which will be numeric data results. The intention of duplicate data entry is to minimize 

typographical errors. Theoretically it is unlikely for two different people to make the same 

mistake when entering the same data. Therefore by comparing both entries the mistakes made 

during each entry will be identified. The duplicate entry will be performed at EEMS by personnel 

other than the site Survey Technician. The entry will be overseen by the QA Manager. 

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Following the duplicate data entry process the data tables will be automatically compared for 

differences. Any difference will automatically be flagged for further investigation. The QA 

Manager will be responsible for reconciling any differences by reference to the original hardcopy 

data form or discussion with the Survey Technician or site operator. 

A record of the differences found and the resolution of the differences will be added to the Site 

Survey File and included in the monthly progress and management reports. If for any reason a 

difference cannot be resolved, it will be identified for further action and all actions will be 

reported in monthly progress reports. 

10.3 Final Data Set 

After the QA manager has ensured that all of the steps described above have been performed and 

approved the site survey data tables, the site survey data is considered final. At this stage in the 

management process following entry of each and every site survey data set, the database is 

backed up to an external hard drive on-site and off-site. 

10.3.1 Site Survey Performance Report 

From the final data set a Site Survey Performance Report is generated and distributed for each 

site survey. This report will address any differences that may have been reported in the Spot 

Report. The Project Manager will be responsible for generating and distributing this report. The 

electronic Site Survey Performance Reports will be delivered within 15 days from the site survey. 

Other hardcopy information such as edited site sketches will be mailed to the NADP PO. Copies 

of all information will be retained and added to the Site Survey File. 

Following delivery of the Site Survey Performance Report and any hardcopy information, the Site 

Survey File for the completed site will be closed and archived. The DCN will indicate the Site 

ID, Network ID, and the date of the survey to allow for retrieval if requested. A new Site Survey 

File will be initiated at least one month prior to the next scheduled site survey. 

10.3.2 Electronic Data Delivery 

Electronic data delivery (EDD) files will be delivered with the monthly progress reports for those 

months when site surveys were conducted. The format of the EDD will be developed with the 

assistance of the NADP PO and suitable for import into the NADP database. The electronic data 

files will contain all of the information included in the Site Survey Performance Report. The 

EDD files will also contain all other digital information collected during the site survey such as 

digital photographs. 

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11.0 Quality Control and Quality Assurance 





The EEMS personnel and Survey Technicians are aware of the significance of the survey 

program and the impact of the data collected. They are all experienced professionals and 

dedicated to the programs of the NADP and EPA Clean Air Markets Division. The following 

sections describe the quality process that is not only employed for NTN Site Performance Survey 

procedures, but for all projects at EEMS 

11.1 Review Verification and Vigilance 

The NADP Site Survey Program management structure ensures sufficient review and QA/QC 

procedures are applied. Prior to conducting any field work all procedures are documented and 

reviewed by experts in the field of deposition and precipitation monitoring. The consultants 

selected to assist with the quality assurance of the documentation and survey program are Dr. 

Peter Finkelstein and Scotty Dossett. 

As described in the previous sections throughout this SOP all data collected are reviewed and 

verified during the survey and data management process. This begins with the preparation of the 

survey kit materials for the site Survey Technician. 

Review and verification continue during the survey process. By requiring the Survey Technician 

to write the observations and results on hardcopy forms and then read the forms while entering 

the information into the FSSD, a first review is performed. Since this is accomplished while the 

Survey Technician is at, or near the site, any discrepancies can be addressed by double-checking 

the test of the instrument or the site observation. 

Verification and vigilance continue as data are transmitted to EEMS. The duplicate entry 

procedures verify that the recorded data are correctly entered into the database. This process is 

overseen and reviewed by personnel that have not collected or entered the data, which provides 

an independent check. 

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11.2 Reporting and Accountability 

All personnel are informed and encouraged to report any discrepancy or deficiency that may exist 

in the survey results or site survey procedures. This began with the review of the documentation 

as described and the incorporation of comments and suggestions. The process will continue as 

the project goes forward and data are collected. Improvements to the procedures will be 

presented in reports to management for approval prior to any implementation. 

If at any time during the review and verification process any employee or consultant feels that 

data quality may be compromised due to deficient or inaccurate oversight procedures, they will 

report the concern and condition to the QA Manager, the Project Manager, and the EPA Project 

Officer. If the condition is not satisfactorily addressed, the QA Manager has the authority to stop 

work on the project until the condition is resolved. 

11.2.1 Active Communication 

It is the management philosophy of EEMS that quality starts with communication. By actively 

involving all project participants during regular meetings, all quality concerns are brought forth 

and addressed. Open communication is also encouraged between EEMS personnel, consultants, 

NADP personnel, and EPA personnel. The project management will be transparent with all 

aspects of the program available for data users, NADP and EPA clients for examination. 

All project personnel are reminded that they are accountable. They are encouraged to actively 

communicate with clients to ensure quality issues are addressed and a quality product is 

produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

MDN Site Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1020 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 

1 Michael Kolian’s comments May 2008


MDN Site Performance Survey SOP 




Page 3 of 26 



1.1 Typical MDN Site Installations .......................................................................................8 







3.1 Electrical ........................................................................................................................13 





4.1 Training..........................................................................................................................15 












8.2 Data Entry ......................................................................................................................18 

8.2.1 User Type Selection Menu.................................................................................. 18 

8.2.2 NADP Survey Database – Office Version Main Menu....................................... 19 

8.2.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main Menu......................................... 19 

8.2.4 Enter Survey Data ............................................................................................... 20 

8.2.5 Typical Data Entry Form..................................................................................... 20 

8.2.6 Preview Report Menu.......................................................................................... 20 





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10.3 Final Data Set.................................................................................................................24 









Table 2. Initial Site Information …………………………….………………….…….. 9 

Table 3. Instrument Specific Methods ……………………………………….............. 12 


Figure 1. NADP Pre-Audit Site Information MDN Site AL03……………………….. 10 








CD 

DAS 

DCN 

compact disc 



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EDD 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

GPS 

ISWS 

HAL 

Hg 

LOTO 

MDN 

MOF 

NADP 

NIST 

PDA 

PO 

QAPP 

SOP 








Mercury Analytical Laboratory 

mercury 

“lock out” “tag-out” 


MDN Observer Form 







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conducting performance surveys of National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) Mercury 

Deposition Network (MDN) field stations. The NADP is a cooperative, multi-agency program of 


deposition of various pollutant ions and mercury. The MDN is one of the three networks of the 

NADP and is focused on long-term trends of mercury concentrations in precipitation and 

estimations of wet atmospheric deposition. Various local, state, and federal agencies, as well as 

universities and other interested groups are responsible for, and contribute to, the operation of the 

stations. More specific instructions are provided in separate SOPs for each measurement system 

usually found at a MDN station. Those systems include precipitation gauges and precipitation 

collectors. The individual SOPs are referenced in Section 5.0 Equipment and Supplies of this 

SOP. 




systems are operating within the project acceptance criteria as defined in the MDN Quality 



MDN Site Performance Surveys include: 



• Verifying that the precipitation collector is operating within the specifications of the 

MDN QAPP and capable of collecting valid samples. 

• Challenging precipitation gauge with an independent audit standard [traceable to National 

Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or other authoritative standard] to 

determine if the device is operating within defined project accuracy goals provided in the 

MDN QAPP. 








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personnel. 

1.1 Typical MDN Site Installations 

The MDN Site Performance Survey program is intended to assess the operation of each site in the 

network. The network currently consists of approximately 100 sites throughout the United States, 

Canada, and Mexico. The number and location of operational sites varies at any time. A list of 

active sites and locations can be found in the “Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) – Support 

for Conducting Systems and Performance Surveys of National Atmospheric Monitoring Stations” 

(referred to from this point on as NADP Site Survey Program QAPP). An updated list may be 

available on the NADP website: http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu/. 

The program goal is to visit and survey approximately 90 sites per year from the three individual 

networks, and each site in the NADP once approximately every three years. The current survey 

schedule can be found at ftp://67.192.214.230 in the NADP Final directory. 


gauge, an approved precipitation collector, equipment manuals, approved operating procedures, 

and site supplies. The approved MDN measurement and sampling equipment includes: 



• ETI NOAH IV Electronic Precipitation Gauge 

• OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge 

• N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector 


Due to the number and location of the sites in the network, the MDN site survey program is a 



Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Project Officer and site liaison at the NADP Program 

Office (PO) at Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS), and the site liaison at the Mercury (Hg) 

Analytical Laboratory (HAL) at Frontier Geosciences, must be contacted. Their contact 

information is listed below: 

Michael Kolian 202-343-9261 kolian.michael@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

Melissa Rury 202-343-9882 rury.melissa@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

Mark Rhodes 217-244-6413 Rhodes1@illinois.edu NADP QA Manager 

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Doug Disney 206-622-6960 dougd@frontiergeosciences.com HAL Liaison 

Gerard van der Jagt 206-622-6960 gerardj@frontiergeosciences.com HAL Liaison 







Site #1 

MDN 

Site #2 

Site #3 

: 









Site characteristics (ie. solar power, remote, etc) 



Logistical concerns (ie. passes or keys required, etc) 



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Page 10 of 26 

Figure 1 is an example of the initial site information for MDN site AL03 as received from the 

NADP PO. 

Figure 1. NADP Pre-Audit Site Information MDN Site AL03 




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Once the initial communication with the site liaisons and site operator has occurred, the 


File. 


At this point, during the preliminary survey activities, the Site Survey File will contain the 

compiled comprehensive information obtained during the preliminary communication and data 

gathering process described above. The information for each site will include records of phone 

calls, e-mail correspondence, and completed site information data tables. 


















and providing the Survey Technician with the required materials to complete the planned surveys. 

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Once receipt of the complete and functional survey kit is confirmed by the Survey Technician, the 

preliminary Site Survey File is complete. Post-survey information will be included following the 

site visit and survey by the Survey Technician. 


General methods used for performing a MDN Site Performance Survey will include the 















the survey. 



instrumentation present at the particular MDN site. Specific SOPs have been developed for that 

purpose. 


The list of approved MDN site equipment and instrumentation is presented in Section 1.1. The 


each site. Table 3 identifies the specific SOP for the equipment or instrumentation type. 



Belfort 5-780 Precipitation Gauge SOP-EPW07061-1400 1 May 2008 

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OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation 

Gauge 

SOP-EPW07061-1410 1 May 2008 

ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge SOP-EPW07061-1420 1 May 2008 

ACM MDN Precipitation Collector SOP-EPW07061-1320 1 May 2008 

N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector SOP-EPW07061-1330 1 May 2008 

Using this SOP and those presented in Table 3, any currently operating MDN site can be 

surveyed. As new equipment or instrumentation is approved for use at MDN sites, new methods 

and procedures will be developed to challenge and test that equipment and instrumentation. 

Those methods will be incorporated into this SOP and Table 3. 


The NADP Site Survey Program and MDN Site Performance Survey require travel to various 







equipment. 







circuit breaker and employing a proper “lockout” and “tag-out” procedure. 


“Lockout” “tag-out” (LOTO) procedures are intended to protect survey personnel and technicians 

from electrical hazards while troubleshooting and servicing electrical equipment. If the power 

supply to the device is not in the direct control of the technician, LOTO procedures must be used 

to ensure that the power is not supplied to the device during the activities. This is accomplished 

by locating the source of the power (electrical outlet or circuit distribution panel) and 

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Page 14 of 26 

disconnecting the power source. Unplugging the cord or turning the circuit breaker off will then 

disconnect the power. In rare instances it may be necessary to disconnect the main power supply 

or main breaker that supplies power to all of the circuits in the distribution panel. 






Some of the stations in the MDN are located in remote areas. Access to the site may be limited to 

hiking trails. The trails may be mountainous, or rugged and steep, and at high elevations. Shelter 

may not be available at the site location. Caution and care should be exercised to prevent 

overexertion when accessing these sites. Protective clothing and boots should be worn, and 

adequate fluids should be available for the duration of the site visit. 
















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approved for use in the MDN. Procedures for testing and challenging any new equipment will be 


4.1 Training 







performance surveys at MDN designated NADP precipitation collection stations. They are 



regarding specific NADP MDN site survey procedures: 

• SOP-EPW07061-1400 − Belfort 5-780 Precipitation Gauge (NADP Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1410 − OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge (NADP 

Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1420 − ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge (NADP Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1320 − ACM MDN Precipitation Collector - (NADP Installations) 

• SOP-EPW07061-1330 − N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector - (NADP Installations) 



materials are required to perform NADP MDN site surveys. 

• NADP MDN QAPP. 

• Site Survey File for each site in the planned trip. 

• Hardcopy data forms (forms provided in each Site Survey File). 

• Laptop computer with approved FSSD. 

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Page 16 of 26 

• Global Positioning System (GPS). 

• Miscellaneous recordkeeping supplies. 

• Manufacturer's instruction manuals. 



MDN site will be referenced to a carefully calibrated and certified standard. The rational and 



The majority of challenges performed on measurement systems at MDN sites will be the use of a 

standard weight to simulate precipitation and then comparing the instrument response to the 












The various precipitation gauges approved for MDN respond differently to the weight applied to 

the catch basin. For example the Belfort gauges respond with an equivalent precipitation amount 

of approximately one inch when a weight of approximately 825 grams is added to the bucket. 

This will be the smallest standard weight used for the Belfort gauges, and measured to the 

hundredth of one inch. The electronic ETI and OTT Pluvio gauges are more sensitive and will be 

challenged with much smaller weights that correspond to precipitation amounts of 0.25 and 0.50 

inches. 



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The MDN Site Performance Surveys will include various voltage checks of the instruments and 












The list of items that are routinely addressed during a MDN Site Performance Survey is included 

in Table 4 of the NADP Site Survey Program QAPP. 





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Data acquisition at most of the MDN sites is accomplished by visual observations, made by site 

operators, and site instrument measurements on hardcopy media (rain gauge charts). These are 

manually recorded to hardcopy forms by the site operator and then sent to the HAL. As 

electronic precipitation gauges are deployed at MDN sites data acquisition will be accomplished 

by radio transmission to handheld data devices and then electronically sent to the HAL. Some 

sites will also employ direct telemetry from the site equipment to the HAL. 








8.2 Data Entry 



into the data tables using data entry forms. The forms are similar 

to the hardcopy forms provided in the each SOP. The forms and 

menus are presented in the following sections. A complete 


8.2.1 User Type Selection Menu 


personnel, two sets of forms, functions, reports and tables exists, 



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Page 19 of 26 

one for field use and one for office use. The first screen viewed when the FSSD is opened is a 

screen which allows access to either office personnel or field personnel to the corresponding 

forms, function and repots. Figure 2 shows this first screen. 

8.2.2 NADP Survey Database – Office Version Main Menu 

The buttons on the Office Version main menu provide 

access to reports and forms contained in the database. 

Figure 3 shows the different options the user can 

choose from: 













8.2.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main Menu 

The Field Version of the NADP Survey Database 

provides fewer options than the Office Version given that 

there are a number of functions that are not performed in 

the field, or by field personnel. The buttons on the Field 

Version main menu provide access to reports and forms 

contained in the database. Figure 4 shows the different 

options the user can choose form: 








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8.2.4 Enter Survey Data 

The Enter Survey Data menu (Figure 5) allows the 

user to select the site and form for which to enter data. 

This menu provides the user with the following 

options: 














8.2.5 Typical Data Entry Form 

From the Enter Survey Data Menu the user can select from 

a number of forms. The one shown in Figure 6 is the Site 






appropriate answer from a drop-down menu. However 

there are some questions that require a numeric input or a Figure 6. Site Information Form 

(Field Form) 

text input that is not a drop-down selection. Those fields 

highlighted in blue constitute data that is then include in the site Spot 

Report. 

8.2.6 Preview Report Menu 




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Page 21 of 26 



• QA Report 




























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Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data at the MDN sites. 

Some sites utilize handheld data devices as previously described, and their use is anticipated to 

increase as more electronic gauges are installed. 


























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Page 25 of 26 

sections describe the quality process that is not only employed for MDN Site Performance Survey 






















in the survey results or site survey procedures. This begins with the review of the documentation 

as described and the incorporating of comments and suggestions. The process will continue as 








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Page 26 of 26 









produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

AIRMoN Site Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1030 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 



AIRMoN Site Performance Survey SOP 




Page 3 of 27 



1.1 Typical AIRMoN Site Installations .................................................................................8 







2.2.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................... 13 


3.1 Electrical ........................................................................................................................14 





4.1 Training..........................................................................................................................15 













8.3 Manual Calculations ......................................................................................................19 

8.3.1 Data Entry and Verification of Calculation Results ............................................ 20 

8.3.2 Data Entry ............................................................Error! Bookmark not defined. 






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10.3 Final Data Set.................................................................................................................25 




















AIRMoN 

CAL 

CD 

DAS 

DCN 

EDD 



compact disc 




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EEMS 

EPA 

FORF 

FSAD 

FSSD 

GPS 

HAL 

ISWS 

LOTO 

NADP 

NIST 

PDA 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

SOP 









lockout tag-out 








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Page 6 of 27 


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conducting performance surveys of National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) 

Atmospheric Integrated Research Network (AIRMoN) field stations. The NADP is a 

cooperative, multi-agency program of monitoring stations designed to measure precipitation 

chemistry and estimate atmospheric deposition of various pollutant ions and mercury. AIRMoN 

is one of the three networks of the NADP and is focused on long-term trends of pollutant ion 

concentrations in precipitation and estimations of wet atmospheric deposition. Various local, 

state, and federal agencies, as well as universities and other interested groups are responsible for, 

and contribute to, the operation of the stations. More specific instructions are provided in 

separate SOPs for each measurement system usually found at an AIRMoN station. Those 

systems include precipitation gauges and precipitation collectors. The individual SOPs are 

referenced in Section 5.0 Equipment and Supplies of this SOP. 




systems are operating within the project acceptance criteria as defined in the AIRMoN Quality 



AIRMoN Site Performance Surveys include: 



• Verifying that the precipitation collector is operating within the specifications of the 

AIRMoN QAPP and capable of collecting valid samples. 

• Challenging precipitation gauge with an independent audit standard [traceable to National 

Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or other authoritative standard] to 


AIRMoN QAPP. 








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Page 8 of 27 


personnel. 

1.1 Typical AIRMoN Site Installations 

The AIRMoN Site Performance Survey program is intended to assess the operation of each site in 

the network. The network currently consists of approximately 7 sites in the eastern United States. 

The number and location of operational sites varies at any time. A list of active sites and 

locations can be found in the “Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) – Support for Conducting 

Systems and Performance Surveys of National Atmospheric Monitoring Stations” (referred to 

from this point on as NADP Site Survey Program QAPP). An updated list may be available on 

the NADP website: http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu/. 

The program goal is to visit and survey approximately 90 total sites per year from the three 

individual networks and each site in the NADP once approximately every three years. The 

current survey schedule can be found at ftp://67.192.214.230 in the NADP Final directory. 


gauge, an approved precipitation collector, field laboratory instrumentation, equipment manuals, 

approved operating procedures, and site supplies. The approved AIRMoN measurement and 

sampling equipment includes: 


• NWS Stick Precipitation Gauge 



• Various electronic Scales 

• Various pH meters 

• Various conductivity meters 


Due to the number and location of the sites in the network, the AIRMoN site survey program is a 



Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Project Officer and site liaisons at the NADP Program 

Office (PO), and Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL) at Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS), 

must be contacted. Their contact information is listed below: 

• Michael Kolian 202-343-9261 kolian.michael@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

• Melissa Rury 202-343-9882 rury.melissa@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

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Page 9 of 27 

• Jane Rothert 217-333-7942 airmon@uiuc.edu AIRMoN Liaison 

• Roger Claybrooke 217-244-2838 dclay@sws.uiuc.edu NADP PO 

• Mark Rhodes 217-244-6413 Rhodes1@illinois.edu NADP QA Manager 







Site #1 

AIRMoN 

Site #2 

Site #3 

: 











Conductivity meter (manufacturer, model) 







Figure 1 is an example of the initial site information for AIRMoN site PA15 as received from the 

NADP PO. 

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Page 10 of 27 

Figure 1. NADP Pre-Audit Site Information AIRMoN Site PA15 

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Page 11 of 27 












File. 





calls, e-mail correspondence, and completed site information data tables. 

















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Page 12 of 27 

The EEMS quality assurance (QA) Manager will oversee the process of completing the 

preliminary Site Survey File, and providing the Survey Technician with the required materials to 

complete the planned surveys. Once receipt of the complete and functional survey kit is 

confirmed by the Survey Technician, the preliminary Site Survey File is complete. Post-survey 

information will be included following the site visit and survey by the Survey Technician. 


General methods used for performing an AIRMoN Site Performance Survey will include the 















the survey. 



instrumentation present at the particular AIRMoN site. Specific SOPs have been developed for 

that purpose. 


The list of approved AIRMoN site equipment and instrumentation is presented in Section 1.1. 

The preliminary survey activities identify which of the listed types of instrumentation are present 

at each site. Table 3 identifies the specific SOP for the equipment or instrumentation type. 

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Belfort Mechanical Precipitation Gauge SOP-EPW07061-1400 1 May 2008 

NWS Stick Precipitation Gauge SOP-EPW07061-1430 1 May 2008 


pH meter SOP-EPW07061-1220 1 May 2008 

Conductivity meter SOP-EPW07061-1230 1 May 2008 

Ohaus balance SOP-EPW07061-1210 1 May 2008 

Using this SOP and those presented in Table 3, any currently operating AIRMoN site can be 

surveyed. As new equipment or instrumentation is approved for use at AIRMoN sites, new 

methods and procedures will be developed to challenge and test that equipment and 

instrumentation. Those methods will be incorporated into this SOP and Table 3. 


This section describes the tasks required after completing the on-site tasks which have been 

described in Sections 1.0 and 2.0, and after completing the procedures in the instrument specific 

survey methods for all of the site instrumentation. 











The NADP Site Survey Program and AIRMoN Site Performance Survey require travel to various 



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Page 14 of 27 





equipment. 







circuit breaker and employing a proper “lockout” and “tag-out” procedure. 


“Lockout” “tag-out” (LOTO) procedures are intended to protect survey personnel and technicians 

from electrical hazards while troubleshooting and servicing electrical equipment. If the power 

supply to the device is not in the direct control of the technician, LOTO procedures must be used 

to ensure that the power is not supplied to the device during the activities. This is accomplished 

by locating the source of the power (electrical outlet or circuit distribution panel) and 

disconnecting the power source. Unplugging the cord or turning the circuit breaker off will then 

disconnect the power. In rare instances it may be necessary to disconnect the main power supply 

or main breaker that supplies power to all of the circuits in the distribution panel. 






Some of the stations in the AIRMoN may be located in remote areas. Access to the site may be 

limited to hiking trails. The trails may be mountainous, or rugged and steep, and at high 

elevations. Shelter may not be available at the site location. Caution and care should be 

exercised to prevent overexertion when accessing these sites. Protective clothing and boots 

should be worn, and adequate fluids should be available for the duration of the site visit. 

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Page 15 of 27 




















approved for use in the AIRMoN. Procedures for testing and challenging any new equipment 

will be developed with the cooperation of the NADP and subcommittees. 

4.1 Training 





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Page 16 of 27 



performance surveys at AIRMoN designated NADP precipitation collection stations. They are 



regarding specific NADP AIRMoN site survey procedures: 

• SOP-EPW07061-1400 − Belfort Precipitation Gauge Standard Operating Procedures 

(NADP Installations). 

• SOP-EPW07061-1430 − National Weather Service (Stick) Gauge , Standard Operating 

Procedures (NADP Installations). 

• SOP-EPW07061-1220 − pH meter Standard Operating Procedures (NADP 

Installations). 

• SOP-EPW07061-1310 − ACM NTN Precipitation Collector Standard Operating 

Procedures (NADP Installations). 

• SOP-EPW07061-1230 − conductivity meter Standard Operating Procedures (NADP 


• SOP-EPW07061-1210 – Ohaus balance Standard Operating Procedures (NADP 




materials are required to perform NADP AIRMoN site surveys. 

• NADP AIRMoN QAPP. 

• Standard pH and conductivity samples from the CAL 

• Site Survey File for each site in the planned trip. 

• Hardcopy data forms (forms provided in each Site Survey File). 

• Laptop computer with approved FSSD. 

• Global Positioning System (GPS). 

• Miscellaneous recordkeeping supplies. 

• Manufacturer's instruction manuals. 

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AIRMoN site will be referenced to a carefully calibrated and certified standard. The rational and 



The majority of challenges performed on measurement systems at AIRMoN sites will be the use 

of a standard weight to simulate precipitation and then comparing the instrument response to the 












The various precipitation gauges approved for AIRMoN respond differently to the weight applied 

to the catch basin. For example the Belfort gauges respond with an equivalent precipitation 

amount of approximately one inch when a weight of approximately 825 grams is added to the 

bucket. This will be the smallest standard weight used for the Belfort gauges, and measured to 

the hundredth of one inch. The electronic ETI and OTT Pluvio gauges are more sensitive and 

will be challenged with much smaller weights that correspond to precipitation amounts of 0.25 

and 0.50 inches. 









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The MDN Site Performance Surveys will include various voltage checks of the instruments and 












The list of items that are routinely addressed during a AIRMoN Site Performance Survey is 

included in Table 4 of the NADP Site Survey Program QAPP. 











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Data acquisition at most of the AIRMoN sites is accomplished by visual observations, made by 

site operators, and site instrument measurements on hardcopy media (rain gauge charts). These 

are manually recorded to hardcopy forms by the site operator and then sent to the HAL. As 

electronic precipitation gauges are deployed at AIRMoN sites data acquisition will be 

accomplished by radio transmission to handheld data devices and then electronically sent to the 

CAL. Some sites will also employ direct telemetry from the site equipment to the CAL. 



total precipitation on the Field Observer Report Form (FORF). The AIRMoN Site Performance 

Survey will check and verify that those observations are being properly interpreted and recorded. 

The calculations performed by the site operator will be checked for accuracy as part of the site 

systems survey. 






will be verified. The verification will include checks for completeness and accuracy. This may 

be accomplished by manually transferring data from the DAS to the site survey computer and 

comparing that file to data transferred automatically to the handheld device. 

8.3 Manual Calculations 

As mentioned in Section 8.1 the calculations performed by the site operator will be checked as 

part of the site systems survey. Site performance survey calculations will be performed manually 

by the Survey Technician during the challenge or test of each instrument. The calculations will 

include: 

• The difference of the observed (or measured) instrument response, from the actual (or 

standard) test value. 

• Linear regression of multiple test values versus response of electronic precipitation 

gauges. 

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Page 20 of 27 

• The difference of the observed (or measured) instrument response from the prescribed (or 

target) value. 

The results of the calculations will determine if the instrument meets the acceptance criteria set 

forth in Table 3 of the NADP Site Survey Program QAPP. The results of the calculations will be 

recorded on the survey data forms. 

8.3.1 Data Entry and Verification of Calculation Results 



















one for field use and one for office use. The first screen viewed 

when the FSSD is opened is a screen which allows access to either 

office personnel or field personnel to the corresponding forms, 

function and repots. Figure 2 shows this first screen. 



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Page 21 of 27 





choose from: 















provides fewer options than the Office Version given 

that there are a number of functions that are not 

performed in the field, or by field personnel. The 

buttons on the Field Version main menu provide access 


shows the different options the user can choose form: 








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The Enter Survey Data menu (Figure 5) allows the user to select the site and form for which to 

enter data. This menu provides the user with the 

following options: 























there are some questions that require a numeric input or a 


highlighted in blue constitute data that is then include in 

the site Spot Report. 


(Field Form) 







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Reports Menu 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 23 of 27 

• QA Report 








Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data at the AIRMoN sites. 

Some sites may utilize handheld data devices as previously described, and their use is anticipated 

to increase as more electronic gauges are installed. 















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Page 24 of 27 
































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Page 25 of 27 
































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Page 26 of 27 









sections describe the quality process that is not only employed for AIRMoN Site Performance 

Survey procedures, but for all projects at EEMS 



















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Page 27 of 27 




















produced. 

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PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

Ohaus Balance Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1210 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 



Ohaus Balance SOP 




Page 3 of 15 



2.0 Summary of Methods ..................................................................................................6 

3.0 Health and Safety Warnings.......................................................................................6 

4.0 Personnel Qualifications..............................................................................................6 

4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 

5.0 Equipment and Supplies .............................................................................................7 

6.0 Instrument or Method Calibration and Standardization ........................................7 

6.1 As Found (pre-maintenance check) .................................................................................7 

6.2 Instrument Maintenance...................................................................................................8 

6.3 As Left (post-maintenance check)....................................................................................8 

7.0 Troubleshooting ...........................................................................................................9 

8.0 Data Acquisition, Calculations, and Reduction ........................................................9 

8.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................................9 

8.1.1 User Type Selection Menu.................................................................................... 9 

8.1.2 NADP Survey Database – Office Version Main Menu......................................... 9 


8.1.4 Enter Survey Data ............................................................................................... 10 















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Table of Contents (continued) 








AIRMoN 

ATS 

CAL 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

MDN 

NADP 

NIST 

NTN 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 

SPSQ 


Advance Technology Systems, Inc. 

















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This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) describes the procedures for conducting performance 

surveys of the Ohaus balances located at National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) 

field stations. The NADP is a cooperative, multi-agency program of monitoring stations designed 

to measure precipitation chemistry and estimate atmospheric deposition of various pollutant ions 

and mercury. Various local, state, and federal agencies, as well as universities and other 

interested groups are responsible for, and contribute to, the operation of the stations. 

The Ohaus balance is used to calculate the amount of precipitation sample collected on a weekly 

basis for National Trends Network (NTN) sites, and on an event basis for the Atmospheric 

Integrated Research Monitoring Network (AIRMoN) sites. This measurement is then used to 

calculate the concentrations of the ions tested for at the Central Analytical Laboratory. 




systems are operating within the project acceptance criteria as defined in the NADP Quality 



Performance survey of the Ohaus balances include: 

• Verifying that the instrument is capable of making valid and accurate measurements. 

• Challenging the gauge with an independent audit standard [traceable to National Institute 

of Standards and Technology (NIST) or other authoritative standard] to determine if the 

device is operating within defined project accuracy goals provided in the NADP QAPP. 

• Performing routine maintenance and/or minor repairs if necessary to return the gauge to 

operation within the designated specifications. 

• Subsequently re-challenging and/or retesting the gauge. 






personnel. 

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Page 6 of 15 


General methods used for performing an Ohaus balance performance survey will include: 

• Documenting the existing condition on the forms provided 

• Completing the “as found” or pre-maintenance challenge 

• Recording the results of the pre-maintenance challenge 

• Performing any required routine maintenance, calibration adjustment, or minor repair 

• If required repeating the “as left” or post-maintenance challenge 

• Recording the results of the additional challenge 

• Entering the recorded data into the FSSD and backing up the files 


The health and safety issues regarding surveys of NADP sites are addressed in the Site 

Performance Survey SOPs for each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020, 

SOP-EPW07061-1030) 








approved for use in the NTN, MDN and AIRMoN sites. Procedures for testing and challenging 

any new equipment will be developed with the cooperation of the NADP and subcommittees. 

4.1 Training 





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Page 7 of 15 


The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of Ohaus 

balances: 

• NADP operations manuals (NTN, MDN, and AIRMoN) 

• Site Survey File for the site 

• Set of standard weights 

• Hardcopy data forms (forms provided in Appendix A) 





The method described here was developed from tested and accepted procedures developed by the 

Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL) at Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS) and Advanced 

Technology Systems, Inc. (ATS). Refinements to the method will be incorporated as the NADP 

Site Survey Program goes forward. 

6.1 As Found (pre-maintenance check) 

The following steps are to be performed prior to conducting any instrument maintenance or 

adjustment to document the existing condition and operation of the balance. (Note: two types of 

balances/scales are used; dual beam mechanical balances and top loading electronic scales). 

1. Record observations concerning general condition and type of scale on the Site 

Performance Survey Questionnaire. 

2. Check the zero of scale and record. 

3. Then “zero” the scale and record before proceeding with survey. 

4. Place 1Kg standard weight on the scale and record scale response. Repeat for stnadard 

weights 5Kg, 10Kg and 20Kg. 

5. If weighing scale is within acceptable tolerance and is clean, perform the postmaintenance 

checks. If the instrument is out of tolerance, perform the instrument 

maintenance indicated below. 

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6.2 Instrument Maintenance 

The following steps are to be performed as routine cleaning and maintenance of the mechanical 

balances: 

1. Check that balance is level and free from vibration. 

2. Clean all beam slides with clean cloth and water. Do not use oil or any lubricant on 

balance knives or bearings. 

3. Check that the magnet faces in the base of the Trig Loop Post Assembly are clean. If 

debris has accumulated on the magnet faces, clean them using a piece of adhesive tape 

(applied sticky side out to a thin, rigid strip (e.g. ruler) and insert it into the magnet slot 

that the aluminum damper vane enters). Press the tape against the magnet face to collect 

any debris. Damper vane should be able to move freely when debris is removed. 

4. Recheck calibration using procedure in As-Found section. 

5. If dual beam mechanical balance does not pass calibration, it will need to be replaced. 

The following steps are to be performed as routine cleaning and maintenance of the electronic 

scales: 

1. Check that weighing platform is level, clean, and free from vibration. 

2. If electronic scale is out of tolerance, perform a calibration using the manufacturer’s 

instruction manual and record results. 

3. If electronic scale does not pass after calibration, it will need to be replaced. 

6.3 As Left (post-maintenance check) 

After performing the maintenance items listed in the previous section, the response of the 

balance/scale must be re-checked. If the instrument was not within the acceptance criteria prior 

to the maintenance, the pre-maintenance check can be repeated after the maintenance to 

determine if the operation was corrected by the routine maintenance procedures. 

If the balance/scale response was within acceptance criteria, and passes the post-maintenance 

check described below, no adjustments are necessary. 

1. Confirm that all questions on the Weighing Scales section of the data forms have been 

completed. 

2. Ensure that dual beam balance is stored properly. Remove any load from the scale plate 

and place the slotted masses on the mass rack. Slide one of the poises away from the zero 

mark to make sure balance is not in equilibrium. This will keep the balance from 

oscillating and prevent unnecessary wear. 

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Reference the manuals listed in Section 5.0 if any additional troubleshooting of the balance/scale 

is required. Additional support may be obtained from the CAL instrument technicians. 


Data acquisition for the performance surveys of the Ohaus balances will be accomplished by 

recording the information described in the previous sections onto data forms. Recorded data will 

then be entered into the FSSD as described in the following sections. The recorded data must be 

entered into the FSSD and used to generate reports and database files that can be used by the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the NADP Program Office (PO), and other data users. 









personnel, two sets of forms, functions, reports and tables exists, one 

for field use and one for office use. The first screen viewed when the 

FSSD is opened is a screen which allows access to either office 

personnel or field personnel to the corresponding forms, function 

and repots. Figure 1 shows this first screen. 




The buttons on the Office Version main menu provide access to reports and forms contained in 

the database. Figure 2 shows the different options the user can choose from: 




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8.1.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version 

Main Menu 



















enter data. This menu provides the user with the following options: 



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From the Enter Survey Data Menu the user can select 

from a number of forms. The one shown in Figure 5 is 

the Site Information Form used by field personnel. The 

station ID, network, site name, operator information and 

other general information pertaining to the site is 

included in this form. For the most part these forms 

consist of a number of questions for which the user must 

select the most appropriate answer from a drop-down 

menu. However there are some questions that require a 

numeric input or a text input that is not a drop-down 

selection. Those fields highlighted in blue constitute data 

that is then include in the site Spot Report. 


(Field Form) 


From this menu the user can select the site and report from the 

following options (Figure 6): 




• QA Report 


Reports Menu 

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Page 12 of 15 




























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Page 13 of 15 


Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from Ohaus balances. 




The Survey Team Member will have an IBM ® compatible field laptop computer to be used to 

record and manage the site survey data. The laptop will be suitable for field use in terms of 

battery operation, portability, and sturdiness. 







Data and records management procedures are presented in the Site Performance Survey SOPs for 

each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020, SOP-EPW07061-1030) 


EEMS is acutely aware that the NADP Site Survey Program is one quality assurance/quality 

control (QA/QC) role of the NADP program. As such, the internal site survey program QA/QC 

has added importance and consequence since not only data collected for the purpose of the 

survey, but data collected for the purpose of the NADP are jeopardized if the survey data are not 

accurate and quality assured. 

The EEMS personnel and Survey Team Members are aware of the significance of the survey 



sections describe the quality process that is not only employed for NADP Site Performance 


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Page 14 of 15 









survey kit materials for the site Survey Team Member. 

Review and verification continue during the survey process. By requiring the Survey Team 

Member to write the observations and results on hardcopy forms and then read the forms while 

entering the information into the FSSD, a first review is performed. Since this is accomplished 

while the Survey Team Member is at, or near the site, any discrepancies can be addressed by 

double-checking the test of the instrument or the site observation. 
















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produced. 

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PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

pH Meter Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1220 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 

1 Michael Kolians’n comments May 2008


pH meter SOP 




Page 3 of 14 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 





6.3 Calibration and Adjustment .............................................................................................8 



8.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................................8 



8.1.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main Menu........................................... 9 















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pH meter SOP 




Page 4 of 14 










AIRMoN 

ATS 

CAL 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

MDN 

NADP 

NIST 

NTN 

PO 

QAPP 

SOP 
















File location 

EEMS, Inc.

pH meter SOP 




Page 5 of 14 



surveys of the pH meters used at National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) field 

stations. The NADP is a cooperative, multi-agency program of monitoring stations designed to 

measure precipitation chemistry and estimate atmospheric deposition of various pollutant ions 



The pH meter is used at sites in the NADP Atmospheric Integrated Research Monitoring Network 

(AIRMoN) as part of the field laboratory activities that take place at these network sites. 







The pH meter performance surveys include: 

• Verifying that the instrument is capable of making valid and accurate measurements 

• Challenging the probe with independent audit standard solutions (provided by CAL) to 


NADP QAPP 

• Performing routine maintenance and/or minor repairs if necessary to return the 

instrument to operation within the designated specifications 

• Subsequently re-challenging and/or retesting the instrument 


appropriate form(s) and Field Site Survey Database (FSSD) 


using the appropriate form(s) and FSSD 


personnel 


General methods used for performing a pH meter performance survey will include: 


File location 

EEMS, Inc.

pH meter SOP 




Page 6 of 14 








Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures for each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, 

SOP-EPW07061-1020, and SOP-EPW07061-1030). 








approved for use in the NADP. Procedures for testing and challenging any new equipment will 

be developed with the cooperation of the NADP and subcommittees. 

4.1 Training 






The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of the pH meter: 

• NADP operations manuals (AIRMoN) 


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EEMS, Inc.

pH meter SOP 




Page 7 of 14 

• Hardcopy forms (forms provided in Appendix A) 

• pH probe calibration standard solutions 



• Miscellaneous cleaning supplies 









adjustment to document the existing condition and operation of the pH probe 

1. Check that probe was stored with electrode bulb wet, in proper storage solution. Note pH 

4.01 buffer is an acceptable storage medium. The protective rubber cap or container filled 

with the buffer solution should be used for storage. 

2. Check pH probe sensor for cracked or broken glass tip. Check cable and connector for 

good connection to meter. Check that probe is clean. 

3. Rinse probe in deionized water and carefully shake water off probe. Note: do not wipe 

the probe electrode or the temperature probe as this may generate an electrostatic charge 

on the probe which can create measurement instability. 

4. Insert probe into a clean container filled with pH 7.00 buffer. The end of the probe must 

be completely immersed into the buffer solution. Turn pH meter on. Stir the probes 

gently. Record pH buffer lot number and expiration date. Once the meter has stabilized, 

record the reading. Note: do not re-use buffer solution. Repeat the above step for pH 

buffer 4.01 and 10.00 and record readings, lot number and expiration date for each point. 

5. If the pH meter reports the temperature measurement, use one of the above buffer check 

points to check temperature. Insert the temperature transfer standard in with pH probe. 

After stabilization, record and transfer standard reading and pH meter reading. 

6. If pH system is within the acceptable limits for pH (± 0.15 of a pH of 4.9) and 

temperature as defined in the NADP QAPP, rinse probe in deionized water then store 

probe in proper storage solution and container. 

File location 

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pH meter SOP 




Page 8 of 14 


Ensure that pH probe is stored, with electrode bulb wet, in the proper storage solution and 

container. 

6.3 Calibration and Adjustment 

After performing the maintenance items listed in the previous section, the response of the probe 

must be re-checked. If the probe was not within acceptance criteria prior to the maintenance, the 

pre-maintenance check can be repeated after the maintenance to determine if the operation has 

was corrected by the routine maintenance procedures. 

• If the pH system is out of tolerance, perform a three point pH system calibration using 

the manufacturer’s instruction manual and record results 

• If the pH system does not pass calibration, it will need to be replaced. Notify the CAL 

as part of the site exit reporting process described in the AIRMoN Site Performance 

Survey Procedures (SOP-EPW-07061-1030) 

• Confirm that all fields on the pH Meter Survey Data Form are complete 

• Confirm that equipment has been returned to operational mode and is stored correctly 


Reference the manuals listed in section 5.0 if any additional troubleshooting of the meter is 

required. Additional support may be obtained from the CAL instrument technicians. 


Data acquisition for the performance surveys of the pH meter will be accomplished by recording 

the information described in the previous sections onto data forms. Recorded data will then be 

entered into the FSSD as described in the following sections. The recorded data must be entered 

into the FSSD and used to generate reports and database files that can be used by the U.S. 






File location 

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pH meter SOP 




Page 9 of 14 












8.1.2 NADP Survey Database – Office Version Main 

Menu 
















8.1.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main 

Menu 

The Field Version of the NADP Survey Database provides 

fewer options than the Office Version given that there are a 

number of functions that are not performed in the field, or by 

field personnel. The buttons on the Field Version main menu 

provide access to reports and forms contained in the database. 

Figure 3 shows the different options the user can choose 

form: 

File location 



EEMS, Inc.

pH meter SOP 




Page 10 of 14 





























(Field Form) 

information pertaining to the site is included in this form. For the most part these forms consist of 

a number of questions for which the user must select the most appropriate answer from a dropdown 

menu. However there are some questions that require a numeric input or a text input that is 

not a drop-down selection. Those fields highlighted in blue constitute data that is then include in 


File location 

EEMS, Inc.

pH meter SOP 




Page 11 of 14 







• QA Report 



Reports Menu 





















File location 

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pH meter SOP 




Page 12 of 14 








Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from the pH meter. 













Data and records management procedures are presented in the AIRMoN Site Performance Survey 

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP-EPW07061-1030). 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

pH meter SOP 




Page 13 of 14 











procedures, but for all projects at EEMS. 



















File location 

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pH meter SOP 




Page 14 of 14 




















produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

Conductivity Meter Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1230 









Revision 

No. 


0 Sept 2007 



Conductivity Meter SOP 




Page 3 of 14 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 








8.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................................9 



8.1.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main Menu........................................... 9 















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Page 4 of 14 










AIRMoN 

ATS 

CAL 

DI 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

NADP 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 

SPSQ 




deionized 













File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 5 of 14 



surveys of the conductivity meters located at National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) 

field stations. The NADP is a cooperative, multi-agency program of monitoring stations designed 

to measure precipitation chemistry and estimate atmospheric deposition of various pollutant ions 



The conductivity meter is used at sites in the NADP Atmospheric Integrated Research Monitoring 

Network (AIRMoN) as part of the field laboratory activities that take place at these network sites. 

It measures the conductivity of the precipitation collected after each precipitation event occurs. 







The conductivity meter performance surveys include: 


• Challenging the instrument with independent audit standard solutions [provided by 

Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL)] to determine if the device is operating within 

defined project accuracy goals provided in the NADP QAPP 

• Performing routine maintenance and/or minor repairs if necessary to return the 

instrument to operation within the designated specifications 

• Subsequently re-challenging and/or retesting the instrument 






personnel 


General methods used for performing a conductivity meter performance survey will include: 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 6 of 14 








The health and safety issues regarding surveys of AIRMoN NADP sites are addressed in the 

AIRMoN Site Performance Survey Standard Operating Procedures (SOP-EPW07061-1030). 










4.1 Training 






The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of conductivity 

meters: 

• NADP operations manuals (AIRMoN) 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 7 of 14 


• Hardcopy forms (forms provided in Appendix B) 

• Conductivity calibration standard solutions 







CAL at Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS) and Advanced Technology Systems, Inc. (ATS). 

Refinements to the method will be incorporated as the NADP Site Survey Program goes forward. 



adjustment to document the existing condition and operation of the gauge: 

1. Check that conductivity cell was stored properly: 

Short term: store conductivity cell in deionized (DI) water. Water must be changed 

frequently to prevent any growth that may cause cell to not function properly. 

Long term: Rinse cell with DI water and store dry. Cell should be soaked in DI water 

until cell tip appears black after storing dry. 

2. Check conductivity cell for cracked or broken glass cell. Check cable and connector for 

good connection to meter. Check that cell is clean. 

3. Turn meter on and verify that meter is properly setup according to the manufacturer’s 

manual. 

4. Insert probe into a clean container filled with 1413µ/s solution. The end of the probe 

must be completely immersed into the buffer solution. Gently tap and stir the cell to 

remove any trapped air bubbles. Record conductivity solution lot number and expiration 

date on the form. Once the meter has stabilized, record the reading on the form. Rinse the 

conductivity cell with DI water, and gently shake water from cell. Note: do not re-use the 

conductivity solution. 

5. Repeat the above step for conductivity solutions 447µ/s and 84µ/s and record the 

readings, lot number and expiration date for each point. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 8 of 14 

6. Use one of the above solution check points to check temperature. Insert the temperature 

transfer standard in with the conductivity cell. After stabilization, record and transfer 

standard reading and conductivity meter reading on the form. 

7. If the conductivity system is within the acceptable limits as defined in the NADP QAPP 

for conductivity and temperature, rinse cell in DI or distilled water and then store the cell 

properly. 


Conductivity cell cleaning: 

Dip or fill conductivity cell with a foaming acidic tile cleaner, such as DOW Foaming Scrubbing 

Bubbles Bathroom Cleaner and agitate for two minutes, Remove the conductivity cell from 

cleaner and rinse in several changes of DI water. 


After performing the maintenance items listed in the previous section, the response of the 

conductivity meter must be re-checked. If the conductivity system is out of tolerance, perform a 

three point conductivity system calibration using the manufacturer’s instruction manual and 

record the results on the form. If the conductivity system does not pass calibration, it will need to 

be replaced. Confirm that all questions on the conductivity Meter/Probe Survey Data Form are 

complete. Confirm that equipment has been returned to the “ready to sample” state and is stored 

correctly. 


Reference the manuals listed in Section 5.0 if any additional troubleshooting of the meter is 



Data acquisition for the performance surveys of the conductivity meter will be accomplished by 





File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 9 of 14 


















the database. Figure 2 shows the different options the user 

can choose from: 


















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 10 of 14 






























information pertaining to the site is included in this form. For the 

most part these forms consist of a number of questions for which 

the user must select the most appropriate answer from a dropdown 


numeric input or a text input that is not a drop-down selection. 

Those fields highlighted in blue constitute data that is then include 

in the site Spot Report. 

File location 


(Field Form) 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 11 of 14 







• QA Report 



Reports Menu 





















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 12 of 14 








Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from the conductivity 

meter. 














each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020, SOP-EPW07061-1030). 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 13 of 14 











procedures, but for all projects at EEMS. 



















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 14 of 14 




















produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

ACM NTN Precipitation Collector Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1310 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 



ACM NTN Precipitation Collector SOP 




Page 3 of 15 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 




6.2 Maintenance .....................................................................................................................9 

6.3 Post-maintenance Checks.................................................................................................9 



8.1 Data Entry ......................................................................................................................10 


















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 4 of 15 










ATS 

CAL 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

NADP 

NTN 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 5 of 15 



surveys of the ACM NTN Precipitation Collectors located at National Atmospheric Deposition 

Program (NADP) field stations. The NADP is a cooperative, multi-agency program of 


deposition of various pollutant ions and mercury. Various local, state, and federal agencies, as 

well as universities and other interested groups are responsible for, and contribute to, the 

operation of the stations. 

The ACM NTN Collector is used to collect the precipitation which occurs during each week of 

site operation. 







ACM NTN Collector’s performance surveys include: 

• Verifying that the instrument is capable of collecting a valid, uncontaminated 

precipitation sample. 

• Actuating the precipitation sensor to determine proper operation of the collector lid. 

• Performing routine maintenance and/or minor repairs if necessary to return the collector 

to operation within the designated specifications. 

• Subsequently re-challenging and/or retesting the collector. 






personnel. 


General methods used for performing an ACM NTN Collector’s performance survey will include: 

• Documenting the existing condition on the forms provided and with digital photographs, 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 6 of 15 

• Completing the “as found” or pre-maintenance challenge, 

• Recording the results of the pre-maintenance challenge, 

• Performing any required routine maintenance, or minor repair, 

• If required repeating the “as left” or post-maintenance challenge, 

• Recording the results of the additional challenge, 




Performance Survey SOP for NTN (SOP-EPW07061-1010). 










4.1 Training 






The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of the AMC NTN 

Collector: 

• NADP operations manuals (NTN) 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 7 of 15 


• Hardcopy data forms (forms provided in Appendix B) 

• Belfort calibration weights 

• Basic hand tools 

• Level 

• Zero residue cleaner and cleaning supplies 











adjustment to document the existing condition and operation of the collector: 

1. Take pictures of the collector if necessary to document the condition. 

2. Record the observations concerning the general collector condition and the installation 

per questions on the Site Survey Questionnaire. 

3. Note and record the GPS location of the collector over the center of the wet collection 

bucket. 

4. Put the clean lid on dry side bucket. Remove bucket from the collector and replace it with 

the test bucket. 

5. Place a few drops of water on the rain sensor to move lid from the wet side to the dry side 

of the collector. 

6. Put the clean lid on the wet side bucket. Remove the bucket from the collector and 

replace it with the test bucket. 

7. Check to see that the lid seal is making sealing contact with the dry bucket rim and is 

clean. 

8. Blow away any remaining moisture from the rain sensor to activate the lid so that it 

returns to the wet side. 

9. Check to see that the lid seal is making sealing contact with the wet bucket rim. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 8 of 15 

10. Unplug the precipitation collector from the 120v power. Place a small amount of water 

on the grid to initiate the lid movement and see if it will operate properly under battery 

power only. 

11. Load test the battery following these procedures: 

• Make sure the motorbox and/or charger is unplugged before load testing the battery. 

• Clip the red lead from tester to the positive post of the battery and the black lead to 

the negative post of the battery. 

• Determine the proper load test duration using for the battery size and the ambient 

temperature. Note: do not stand over the battery during the load test. 

• Test the battery for a determined duration. Watch the meter for battery condition. (It 

should remain in the “green” section of the meter indicator window.) 

• Remove load tester. 

12. After the load test, plug motorbox and/or charger into the 120v power if applicable. 

13. Perform the rain sensor heater test following these procedures: 

• Install the rain sensor test housing over the sensor. 

• Push the thermocouple sensor down to ensure a good contact with the sensor plate. 

• Plug the thermocouple into the meter and record the unheated surface temperature. 

• Remove the rain sensor test housing and install the grid shorting clip. The unit 

should move from the wet side to the dry side. 

• Reinstall the rain sensor test housing pushing the thermocouple down to ensure 

good contact with the sensor plate. 

• Record the sensor temperature at 2 min., 4 min., 6 min., 8 min., and 10 min. 

intervals. 

• The sensor temperature after 10 minutes should be approx. 50 ± 5 °C. 

• If the site is equipped with a Belfort precipitation gauge, check to ensure that the 

recording rain gauge event recorder pen is in the up position while rain sensor is 

shorted. 

• Remove the rain sensor test housing and the grid shorting clip. Note: the sensor 

should be warm to the touch and unit lid should move back to the wet side. 

• If the sensor fails the temperature test, replacement will be necessary. 

14. Test clutch lift of collector performing the following procedures: 

• The unit lid should be on the wet side. 

• Place 2 Belfort calibration weights in the center of the unit lid. 

• Use the grid shorting clip to short the sensor grid and move the lid from the wet 

side to the dry side. Make note of the movement of the weighted lid. It should be 

able to move smoothly without disengaging. 

• Remove the grid shorting clip, lid should move back to the wet side. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 9 of 15 

• If the clutch fails the lift test, refer to Section 4.3 of the ACM Precipitation 

Collector Maintenance Manual for adjustment or replacement of the clutch 

mechanism. 

• Re-test the clutch after repair. 

• Remove the test weights. 

6.2 Maintenance 

1. Clean the sensor head to remove any debris that could cause the collector to open 

unnecessarily. 

2. Straighten the sensor grids if bent. 

3. Clean the battery terminals if needed and spray with protector. 

4. Level and secure the collector to the base as needed. 

5. Replace the lid seal if it is torn or not sealing properly. 

6.3 Post-maintenance Checks 

1. Confirm that all questions on the ACM NTN Precipitation Collector section of the “Site 

Survey Questionnaire” are complete. 

2. Confirm that the measurement and collection equipment has been returned to the “ready 

to sample” state. 


Reference the manuals listed in Section 5.0 if any additional troubleshooting of the collector is 



Data acquisition for the performance surveys of the ACM collector will be accomplished by 





File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 10 of 15 

















The buttons on the Office Version main menu provide access to 

reports and forms contained in the database. Figure 2 shows the 

different options the user can choose from: 


















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 11 of 15 







The Enter Survey Data menu (Figure 4) allows the user to select 

the site and form for which to enter data. This menu provides 

the user with the following options: 

















From the Enter Survey Data Menu the user can select from a number of forms. The one shown in 

Figure 5 is the Site Information Form used by field personnel. The station ID, network, site 

name, operator information and other general information pertaining to the site is included in this 

form. For the most part these forms consist of a number of questions for which the user must 

select the most appropriate answer from a drop-down menu. However there are some questions 

that require a numeric input or a text input that is not a drop-down selection. Those fields 

highlighted in blue constitute data that is then include in the site Spot Report. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 12 of 15 


From this menu the user can select the site and report 

from the following options (Figure 6): 




• QA Report 



The site operators are required to interpret the hardcopy (Field Form) 

charts and calculate the daily and weekly total 

precipitation on the various network observer report forms. Those 

procedures will be verified and assessed as part of the systems survey. 

The calculations performed by the site operator will be checked for 

accuracy as part of the site systems survey. 


Electronic data recorded by the measurement devices that utilize those 

methods will be checked as part of the performance survey. The survey 

tests will account for the combined error from both the measurement 

instrument and the internal data acquisition system (DAS). 


Reports Menu 










File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 13 of 15 











Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from the ACM NTN 

Precipitation Collector. Site survey data will be recorded on hardcopy forms and then entered 

into a database installed on a field laptop computer. 












the NTN (SOP-EPW07061-1010). 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 14 of 15 






























File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 15 of 15 




















produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

ACM MDN Precipitation Collector Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1320 

Date: October 2007 







Revision 

No. 



0 Oct 2007 



ACM MDN Precipitation Collector SOP 




Page 3 of 16 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 




6.2 Maintenance .....................................................................................................................9 

6.3 Post-maintenance Checks...............................................................................................10 



8.1 Data Entry ......................................................................................................................10 


















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 4 of 16 










ATS 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

HAL 

MDN 

NADP 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 














File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 5 of 16 



surveys of the ACM MDN Precipitation Collectors located at National Atmospheric Deposition 






The ACM MDN Precipitation Collector is used to collect the precipitation which occurs during 

each week of site operation. 

The purpose of a performance survey is to assess the collector’s field performance under normal 


Performance survey results are used to ensure the precipitation collection process is operating 

within the project acceptance criteria as defined in the NADP Quality Assurance Project Plan 

(QAPP). Proper implementation of a survey (or audit) program will ensure data integrity and 

assess data accuracy. 

ACM MDN Precipitation Collector’s performance surveys include: 

• Verifying that the instrument is capable of collecting valid, uncontaminated precipitation 

samples. 

• Actuating the precipitation sensor to determine proper operation of the collector lid. 









personnel. 


General methods used for performing a ACM MDN Precipitation Collector performance survey 

will include: 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 6 of 16 




• Performing any required routine maintenance, or minor repair, 



• Entering the recorded data into the FSSD and backing up the files. 


The health and safety issues regarding surveys of MDN sites are addressed in the Site 

Performance Survey SOP (SOP-EPW07061-1020). 










4.1 Training 






The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of the ACM MDN 

Precipitation Collector: 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 7 of 16 

• NADP operations manuals (MDN) 



• Belfort calibration weights 


• Level 







Mercury Analytical Laboratory (HAL) and Advanced Technology Systems, Inc. (ATS). 

Refinements to the method will be incorporated as the NADP Site Survey Program goes forward. 


Special Note on Mercury Collector Sensitivity: 

It is very important to follow the MDN Project Specific SOP when working around the collector 

or handling samples from the collector. Dirt and other particles typically have mercury absorbed 

into their surfaces and if any of this material was to accidentally get into the sample bottle, it 

could significantly contaminate the sample. 

1. Approach the collector from downwind. 

2. If the site operator is onsite, have them retrieve the samples (wet/dry) in accordance with 

the MDN Project Specific SOP and observe their techniques and record any observations. 

If the site operator is not present, retrieve the samples (wet/dry) in accordance with the 

MDN Project Specific SOP. 

3. Take pictures of the collector from at least 2 from different angles. 

4. Record any observations concerning the general condition of the collector and the 

installation per the questions on Site Survey Questionnaire. 

5. Note and record the GPS location of the collector over the center of the unit. 

6. Replace the dry side bucket with the test bucket. 

7. Open the enclosure door and place a temperature transfer unit probe inside so that the 

probe is placed in an open airflow area. Close the door and let the temperature stabilize 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 8 of 16 

before recording the reading. Open the door and quickly record the min/max thermometer 

reading. Is min/max reading within tolerance (± 10°F) Record the results on the Site 

Survey Questionnaire. 

8. If the temperature within the collector is out of acceptable range (40° to 100°F), record 

this finding on the Site Survey Questionnaire, and adjust the thermostat. 

9. Place a few drops of water on the rain sensor to move lid from wet side to dry side of 

collector. 

10. Check to see that the lid seal is making sealing contact with the dry bucket rim and is 

clean. 

11. Blow away any remaining moisture from rain sensor to activate lid so that it returns to the 

wet side. 

Special Note Regarding Blowing Water Off the Rain Sensor 

The step described above is very important. Your sample funnel is now open and exposed. If the 

operator was to blow the water off the sensor toward the open funnel, there is a great potential 

for contamination of the sample to occur. If the operator has fillings in their teeth, it is likely that 

their saliva has detectable concentrations of mercury. Dental fillings are mercury amalgams, and 

therefore have a significant amount of mercury in them. Further, there is potential to blow 

debris/particles toward the open funnel which could also cause contamination. Always blow the 

sensor off with your back to the open funnel. 

12. Check to see that the lid seal is making sealing contact with the wet funnel. 

13. Unplug the precipitation collector from the 120v power, put a small amount of water on 

the grid to initiate the lid movement and see if it will operate properly under battery 

power only. 

14. Load test the battery following these procedures: 

• Make sure the motorbox and/or charger are unplugged before load testing the 

battery. 

• Clip the red lead from tester to the positive post of the battery and the black lead to 

the negative post of the battery. 

• Determine the proper load test duration for the battery size and ambient 

temperature. Note: do not stand over the battery during the load test. 

• Test the battery for a determined duration. Watch the meter for battery condition. 

(It should remain in the “green” section of meter indicator window.) 

• Remove the load tester. 

15. After completing the load test, plug the motorbox and/or charger into the 120v power if 

applicable. 

16. Perform a rain sensor heater test following these procedures: 

• Install the rain sensor test housing over the sensor. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 9 of 16 

• Push the thermocouple sensor down to ensure good contact with the sensor plate. 

• Plug the thermocouple into the meter and record the unheated surface temperature. 

• Remove the rain sensor test housing and install the grid shorting clip. The unit 

should move from the wet side to the dry side. 

• Reinstall the rain sensor test housing pushing the thermocouple down to ensure 

good contact with the sensor plate. 

• Record the sensor temperature at 2 min., 4 min., 6 min., 8 min., and 10 min. 

intervals. 

• The sensor temperature after 10 minutes should be approximately 50 ± 5 °C. 

• If the site is equipped with a Belfort precipitation gauge check to ensure that the 

recording rain gauge event recorder pen is in the up position while rain sensor is 

shorted. 

• Remove the rain sensor test housing and grid shorting clip. Note: the sensor should 

be warm to the touch and the unit lid should move back to the wet side. 

17. Test the clutch lift of the collector performing the following procedures: 

• The unit lid should be on the wet side. 

• Place 2 Belfort calibration weights in the center of the unit lid. 

• Use the grid shorting clip to short the sensor grid and move the lid from the wet 

side to the dry side. Make a note of the movement of the weighted lid. It should be 

able to move smoothly without disengaging. 

• Remove the grid shorting clip, the lid should move back to the wet side. 

• If the clutch fails the lift test, refer to Section 4.3 of the ACM Precipitation 

Collector Maintenance Manual for the adjustment or the replacement of the clutch 

mechanism. 

• Re-test the clutch after repair. 

• Remove the test weights. 

6.2 Maintenance 

1. Clean the sensor head to remove any debris that could cause the collector to open 

unnecessarily. 

2. Straighten the sensor grids if they appear bent. 

3. Clean the battery terminals if needed and spray with protector. 

4. Level and secure the collector to the base as needed. 


6. Check the caulk around funnel chimney and re-caulk with Dow 100% silicone, if needed. 

7. Check the sample bottle lab jack for smooth operation. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 10 of 16 

8. Check the sampler arm boots and replace if they are cracked or torn. 

9. Check event recorder operation on Belfort (or other gauge used). 

Perform Event Recorder Operation Verification 

Check to ensure that the Event Recorded was working when you had the MDN Collector open 

earlier in this procedure (when removing and deploying your glassware). You should see on the 

chart paper an ER pen spike at the end of the measuring period. The ER pen should have moved 

to the open or “Up” position during this time. It should have then returned to the closed or 

“Baseline” position signifying the lid was closed over the wet side of the collector. 

6.3 Post-maintenance Checks 

1. Confirm that all questions and tests on the MDN Collector section of the “Site Survey 

Questionnaire” are complete. 

2. Confirm that the measurement and collection equipment has been returned to it’s “ready 

to sample” state. 


Reference the manuals listed in Section 5.0 if any additional troubleshooting of the gauge is 

required. Additional support may be obtained from the HAL instrument technicians. 


Data acquisition for the performance surveys of the ACM collector will be accomplished by 











File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 11 of 16 











Menu 




from: 














Menu 












File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 12 of 16 





The Enter Survey Data menu (Figure 4) allows the user 

to select the site and form for which to enter data. This 

menu provides the user with the following options: 















From the Enter Survey Data Menu the user can select 

from a number of forms. The one shown in Figure 5 is 

the Site Information Form used by field personnel. The 

station ID, network, site name, operator information and 

other general information pertaining to the site is included 

in this form. For the most part these forms consist of a 


(Field Form) 

number of questions for which the user must select the most appropriate answer from a dropdown 


numeric input or a text input that is not a drop-down selection. 

Those fields highlighted in blue constitute data that is then 

include in the site Spot Report. 





Reports Menu 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 13 of 16 




• QA Report 


























File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 14 of 16 




Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from the ACM MDN 

Precipitation Collector. Site survey data will be recorded on hardcopy forms and then entered 

into a database installed on a field laptop computer. 











Data and records management procedures are presented in the Site Performance Survey SOP 

(SOP-EPW07061-1020). 







File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 15 of 16 




sections describe the quality process that is not only employed for MDN Site Performance Survey 




























File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 16 of 16 












produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1330 








Revision 

No. 



0 Oct 2007 



N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector SOP 




Page 3 of 14 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 








8.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................................9 


















File location 

EEMS, Inc.

N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector SOP 




Page 4 of 14 










EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

MDN 

NADP 

OPS 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 







optical precipitation sensor 






File location 

EEMS, Inc.

N-CON MDNPrecipitation Collector SOP 




Page 5 of 14 



surveys of the N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector located at National Atmospheric Deposition 






The N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector is used to collect the precipitation which occurs during 

each week of site operation. 







The N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector performance surveys include: 

• Verifying that the instrument is capable of collecting a valid, uncontaminated 

precipitation sample. 









personnel. 


General methods used for performing a N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector performance 

survey will include: 


File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 6 of 14 



• Performing any required routine maintenance, calibration adjustment, or minor repair, 



• Entering the recorded data into the FSSD and backing up the files. 



Performance Survey SOP for MDN (SOP-EPW07061-1020). 










4.1 Training 






The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of the N-CON 

MDN Precipitation Collector: 

• NADP operations manuals (MDN) 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 7 of 14 




• Level 







Mercury Analytical Laboratory (HAL). Refinements to the method will be incorporated as the 

NADP Site Survey Program goes forward. 


Special Note Mercury Collector Sensitivity: 

It is very important to follow the MDN Project Specific SOP when working around the collector 

or handling samples from the collector. Dirt and other particles typically have mercury absorbed 

into their surfaces and if any of this material was to accidentally get into the sample bottle, it 

could significantly contaminate the sample. 

1. Approach the collector from downwind. 

2. If a site operator is onsite, have him/her retrieve the sample in accordance with the FGS- 

MDN-001-NCON SOP, observe the technique used, and record the observations. If a site 

operator is not present, retrieve the sample in accordance with the FGS-MDN-001- 

NCON SOP. 

3. Take pictures of the collector if necessary to document the condition. 

4. Record the observations concerning general collector condition and installation per 

questions on the Site Survey Questionnaire. 

5. Note and record the GPS location of the collector over the sample inlet. 

6. Open the enclosure door and place the survey standard temperature probe inside so that 

the probe is placed in an open airflow area. Close the door and let the temperature 

stabilize and record the reading. Open the door and quickly record the min/max 

thermometer reading. The min/max reading should be within ± 10°F of the standard. 

Record the results on the Site Survey Questionnaire. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 8 of 14 

7. If the temperature within the collector is out of the acceptable range (40° to 100°F), 

record this on the Site Survey Questionnaire and adjust the thermostat. 

8. Check to see that the lid seal is making sealing contact with the funnel rim and that it is 

clean. 

9. Pass your hand through the optical precipitation sensor (OPS) to activate the collector lid. 

Note: unplug the power cord or use the power switch to stop the collector lid from 

closing, if needed. 

10. Test the OPS using a spray bottle of water. Spray a mist through the path of the OPS to 

activate the collector lid. The lid should return to cover the funnel after a 2 minute nomist 

or rain time. 


1. Clean the optical precipitation sensor with wet paper towel. 

2. Level and secure the collector to the base if needed. 


4. Check the sample bottle turn tray for smooth operation. 

5. Check the event recorder operation on the Belfort. 

Perform Event Recorder Operation Verification 

Check to ensure that the Event Recorded was working when you had the MDN N-CON Collector 

open earlier in this procedure (when removing and deploying your glassware). You should see on 

the chart paper an ER pen spike at the end of the measuring period. The ER pen should have 

moved to the open or “Up” position during this time. It should have then returned to the closed 

or “Baseline” position signifying the lid was closed over the wet side of the collector. 


1. Confirm that all the questions and tests on the MDN Collector section of the “Site Survey 

Questionnaire” are complete. 

2. Confirm that the measurement and collection equipment has been returned to the “ready to 

sample” state. 


Reference the manuals listed in Section 5.0 if any additional troubleshooting of the collector is 

required. Additional support may be obtained from the HAL instrument technicians. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 9 of 14 


Data acquisition for the performance surveys of the N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector will be 

accomplished by recording the information described in the previous sections onto data forms. 

Recorded data will then be entered into the FSSD as described in the following sections. The 

recorded data must be entered into the FSSD and used to generate reports and database files that 

can be used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the NADP Program Office 

(PO), and other data users. 

















Menu 




from: 










File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 10 of 14 





Menu 


fewer options than the Office Version given that there are 

a number of functions that are not performed in the field, 

or by field personnel. The buttons on the Field Version 

main menu provide access to reports and forms contained 

in the database. Figure 3 shows the different options the 

user can choose form: 
























File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 11 of 14 















(Field Form) 







• QA Report 



Reports Menu 









File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 12 of 14 




















Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from N-CON MDN 

Precipitation Collector. 







File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 13 of 14 





























File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 14 of 14 





























produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

Belfort 5-780 Precipitation Gauge Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1400 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 



Belfort 5-780 Precipitation Gauge SOP 




Page 3 of 16 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 




6.2 Read and Record the Gauge Response.............................................................................8 






8.1 Data Entry ......................................................................................................................11 


















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 4 of 16 










ATS 

CAL 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

MDN 

NADP 

NIST 

NTN 

PO 

QAPP 

SOP 















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 5 of 16 



surveys of the Belfort 5-780 Precipitation Gauges located at National Atmospheric Deposition 






The Belfort 5-780 Recording Rain (precipitation) Gauge is used to continuously measure the 

amount of precipitation by weight which occurs during each week of site operation. The amount 

is recorded to a hardcopy chart located within the gauge. 







Belfort 5-780 gauge performance surveys include: 













personnel. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 6 of 16 


General methods used for performing a Belfort gauge performance survey will include: 











SOP-EPW07061-1030) 








approved for use in the NTN and MDN. Procedures for testing and challenging any new 

equipment will be developed with the cooperation of the NADP and subcommittees. 

4.1 Training 





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Page 7 of 16 


The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of Belfort gauges: 

• NADP operations manuals (NTN, MDN) 



• Belfort standard calibration weights (12) 

• Belfort linearity tool (2) 

• Belfort pen arm bracket support tool 

• Belfort bucket equivalent weight 


• Level 





• NADP Belfort Rain Audit Check Calibration document (CAL) 









1. Document the condition of the gauge on the provided forms and with digital photographs 

if necessary. 

2. Mark the chart by gently rocking the drum or moving the pen arm to make a cross on the 

recorded trace. Remove the chart and notate with the data and time of the survey and 

initial. 

3. Compare the chart time with actual time. The NADP criterion is ± 6 hours. 

4. Install a new chart documented with the site ID, “pre-maintenance check”, time and date 

of the survey, and Survey Technician name. 

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5. Remove wind shields, gauge housing, and bucket to gain access to the instrument. 

6. Install the bucket equivalent weight onto the bucket platform washer. 

7. Gently rock and advance the chart drum slightly (or move the pen) to record the zero 

(bucket equivalent weight) on the chart. 

8. Gently add Belfort standard weights (one through twelve) one at a time and gently rock 

and advance the chart slightly (or move the pen) to record the response from each. 

9. Advance the chart to a new position. 

10. Gently remove Belfort standard weights (twelve through one) one at a time and gently 

rock and advance the chart slightly (or move the pen) to record the response from each. 

11. Engage the pen shifter and remove the drum and chart for data acquisition and analysis. 

12. Remove the bucket equivalent weight. 

6.2 Read and Record the Gauge Response 

Unless otherwise noted, each Belfort standard weight should increase the pen response by 1.00 

inch. Evaluate the gauge response and record the data on the Belfort Survey Data Form (included 

in Appendix B). 

The NADP acceptance criterion is 1.00 inch response per weight ± 0.10 inch. If the responses 

recorded are within criteria then only cleaning and maintenance are required. The chart drive 

(drum clock) criterion is ± six hours from the actual time. If the clock time is not within the 

criterion it may need to be replaced. 


The following steps are to be performed as routine cleaning and maintenance of the Belfort 

gauge: 

1. Check and re-level the gauge by placing the level on the Bucket Platform Washer and 

adjusting the gauge as necessary. 

2. If pens are not recording properly, clean with alcohol and adjust the tension of the contact 

with the chart. 

3. Clean any debris and dirt from the gauge and mechanical movement. 

4. Check for and remove corrosion or anything that causes excessive friction or “stickiness” 

of the mechanism. Only zero residue cleaner and cleaning supplies (soft brush, paper 

towel) can be used to clean the mechanism. 

5. Replace any loose or missing locking screws or parts. 

6. Check the orientation of the event marker pens, the NTN pen should be the upper pen, 

MDN should be the lower. 

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Page 9 of 16 

7. Remove the red “zero-adjust” knob and replace with a stainless-steel cap screw and 

locking nut. 

8. Check and fill the dashpot reservoir with silicone oil to a level just slightly above the 

piston when in the upper-most position. 


After performing the maintenance items listed in the previous section, the response of the gauge 

must be re-checked. If the gauge was not within acceptance criteria prior to the maintenance, the 


was corrected by the routine maintenance procedures. 

If the gauge response was within acceptance criteria, and passes the post-maintenance check 

described below, no adjustments are necessary. 

1. Reinstall the chart used for the pre-maintenance check and advance to a new position. 

Document the position as “post-maintenance” 

2. Using the technique described in section 6.1 check four gauge responses. (0, 3, 6, 9 

inches) 

3. If the gauge passed the pre-maintenance check and the post-maintenance check, remove 

the calibration chart and return the sample chart. 

4. Reinstall all items removed for the survey and maintenance to the proper operating 

condition. 


If the gauge was not within acceptance criteria when checked and maintenance activities did not 

return it to proper operating condition, then calibration adjustments are required. The following 

steps are to be performed for the calibration of the gauge: 

1. Remove the event recorder. 

2. Reinstall the bucket platform. 

3. Back-out the limit screws to allow the mechanism to move through the full range. 

4. Center the screws and nuts in the slot lengths of each lever extension. 

5. Check Spring plate; parallel to frame. (Allen cap screw) (fine adjustment) 

6. Apply bucket equivalent weight & 3 Belfort standard weights 

7. Install pen arm bracket stand-off tool and adjust pen arm to 3” mark 

8. Install 2-calibration linearity tool over copper screw head on Z and straight link and 

adjust so linearity tool will fit over copper screws, tighten screws, then remove all three 

adjustment tools. Pen arm will move either up or down 

File location 

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Page 10 of 16 

9. Readjust pen arm to 3” by spring arm knob (gray or brass colored course knob). To move 

the pen arm down adjust clockwise, to move the pen arm up adjust counter-clockwise. 

10. Install weights 1-6, note placement of pen arm, should grow 1” per weight. 

11. If pen arm grows LESS than 1” move first traverse extension OUT (lengthen) 

12. If pen arm grows MORE than 1” move link IN (shorten) 

13. Check cross over at the top of the 6” line (6 weights) 

14. Adjust crossover by turning screw on Z-LINK (small increments) 

• If pen arm is over the 6” mark (by lightly pushing up and down on platform) adjust 

Z-LINK screw CW. 

• If pen arm is under the 6” mark (by lightly pushing up and down on platform) adjust 

Z-LINK screw CCW 

15. Continue adding Weights 6-12 and watch pen arm travel 1” per weight 

16. Adjust Extension Arm on Z-LINK as necessary 

• Move extension arm OUT to Grow (lengthen) 

• Move extension arm IN to Decrease (shorten) 

17. After calibration of Rain Gauge reinstall event recorder. 

18. Check both pen arms for clearance on movement and adjust if needed 

If by removing 6 weights and the Pen Arm will not go to Zero, even by adjusting the Spring 

Knob, and still won’t adjust to Zero. Check Crossover and adjust. 

(NOTE): Some gauges will go in and out of calibration as weights are applied 

(NOTE): If the pen arm falls behind or ahead consistent with each weight on 6-12” then 

one must move the long lever up or down few graduation and recheck. This in turn will take 

the crossover out of adjustment, and then you have to readjust the crossover and recheck. 

Then start the process all over again 1-6”/6-12”. Make adjustments as needed. 


Reference the manuals listed in section 5.0 if any additional troubleshooting of the gauge is 



Data acquisition for the performance surveys of Belfort precipitation gauges will be accomplished 

by recording the information described in the previous sections onto data forms. Recorded data 

will then be entered into the FSSD as described in the following sections. The recorded data must 

be entered into the FSSD and used to generate reports and database files that can be used by the 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 11 of 16 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the NADP Program Office (PO), and other data 

users. 




















form: 













File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 12 of 16 








options the user can choose from: 


























Figure 5 is the Site Information Form used by field personnel. The station ID, network, site 

name, operator information and other general information pertaining to the site is included in this 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 13 of 16 

form. For the most part these forms consist of a number of 








From this menu the user can select the site and report from 

the following options (Figure 6): 




• QA Report 


(Field Form) 



Reports Menu 

The site operators are required to interpret the hardcopy charts and 

calculate the daily and weekly total precipitation on the various network observer report forms. 

Those procedures will be verified and assessed as part of the systems survey. The calculations 

performed by the site operator will be checked for accuracy as part of the site systems survey. 










File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 14 of 16 















Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from Belfort 

precipitation gauges. 












File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 15 of 16 





























File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 16 of 16 
























produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1410 








Revision 

No. 



0 Oct. 2007 



OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge SOP 




Page 3 of 15 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 




6.2 Read and Record the Gauge Response.............................................................................8 


6.4 Calibration and Post-maintenance Checks.......................................................................9 



8.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................................9 

















11.3 Active Communication ..................................................................................................15 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 4 of 15 










CAL 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

MDN 

NADP 

NIST 

NTN 

PDA 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 

















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 5 of 15 



surveys of the OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauges located at National 

Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) field stations. The NADP is a cooperative, multiagency 

program of monitoring stations designed to measure precipitation chemistry and estimate 

atmospheric deposition of various pollutant ions and mercury. Various local, state, and federal 

agencies, as well as universities and other interested groups are responsible for, and contribute to, 

the operation of the stations. 

The OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge is used to continuously measure the 

amount of precipitation by weight which occurs during each week of site operation. The amount 

is recorded to an internal Campbell Scientific datalogger (DAS). 







OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge performance surveys include: 













personnel. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 6 of 15 


General methods used for performing an OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge 

performance survey will include: 

• Documenting the existing condition on the forms provided and with digital photographs 

if necessary, 









Performance Survey SOPs for each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, and SOP-EPW07061-1020) 










4.1 Training 





File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 7 of 15 


The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of OTT NADP 

Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge: 




• Calibration weights (6) 


• Level 







Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL) at Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS). Refinements to the 

method will be incorporated as the NADP Site Survey Program goes forward. 




1. Take pictures of Rain Gauge if necessary to document the condition of the gauge. 

2. Record observations concerning general precipitation gauge condition and installation. 

3. If a wind shield is present and prevents access to the gauge, remove wind shield. 

4. Check level of precipitation gauge using a bubble level across inlet of collector funnel at 

perpendicular angles and record. 

5. Measure and record funnel opening size and distance from ground to top of precipitation 

gauge. 

6. During the winter season, check for winterization of precipitation gauge, record findings. 

7. Note if any insects or insect nests are present in or on precipitation gauge. 

8. Establish wireless communication with precipitation gauge using Pocket PC and 

Service/Audit Program. 

9. Record date and time showing on precipitation gauge. 

10. Note if evidence of precipitation is in precipitation gauge; document current reading. 

File location 

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Page 8 of 15 

11. Remove pipe house from precipitation gauge, note whether or not the pipe house is 

mounted correctly and damage-free. 

12. Determine whether or not “housing off” switch will be recognized in the new software. 

13. Note any insect activity, corrosion, or debris visible inside the pipe house. Photograph if 

necessary to document actual condition. 

14. Inspect base and weighing mechanism. 

15. Read bull’s-eye level at base of unit to determine if unit is sitting level. 

16. Note if the moving part of weighing mechanism is in contact with the stationary parts. 

17. Are transverse bars of the weighing mechanism deformed 

18. Note if collection bucket is deformed. 

19. Note if the collection bucket is unstable on the black bucket support. 

20. Remove the collection bucket, clean bucket and reinstall bucket in gauge; wait 90 

seconds; document a zero reading. 

6.2 Read and Record the Gauge Response 

1. Carefully place the appropriate weight to simulate 0.25 inch of precipitation in bucket 

and wait 90 seconds before recording the reading. Repeat for 0.50 inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 

6 inches, and 10 inches simulated precipitation, recording each reading after 90 second 

wait time. 

2. Repeat the process from highest to lowest weight, recording each reading until the final 

0.25 inch reading is completed. Record bucket zero again when complete. 

3. If the gauge is equipped with precipitation collector lid-position recording capabilities, 

test the event recording by simulating wet conditions on the precipitation collector. Note 

that the event is being recorded by precipitation gauge. 


The following steps are to be performed as routine cleaning and maintenance of the OTT NADP 

Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge: 

1. Clean all moving parts and base with a soft brush, and canned air, being very careful not 

to damage the strain gauge. 

2. Correct the level of precipitation gauge, if needed, by adjusting the bottom screws on the 

OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge so that the air bubble appears in the 

marked ring of the bull’s-eye level. 

3. Take the voltage reading on the back-up of the battery with the precipitation gauge 

plugged into the power source. Record the reading. Un-plug the gauge from the power 

source, and wait 3 minutes before taking a voltage reading on back-up battery. Record 

the voltage reading. Plug the precipitation gauge back into the power source. 

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4. If voltage reading is below 11.5 volts, note battery replacement needed on Site Survey 

Questionnaire. 

6.4 Calibration and Post-maintenance Checks 

1. Carefully reinstall the collection bucket and the precipitation gauge pipe housing. 

2. Record the time of pipe housing reinstallation. 

3. Record the zero weight of the collection bucket after 90 seconds. 

4. Carefully place the appropriate weight to simulate 0.25 inch of precipitation in the 

bucket. Wait 90 seconds before recording the reading. Repeat the procedure for 0.50, 1, 

2, 6, and 10 inches simulated precipitation. Record each reading after a 90 second wait 

time. 

5. Repeat the process from the highest to the lowest weights recording each reading until the 

final 0.25 inch reading is completed. Record bucket zero again when complete. 

6. If unit was winterized, re-winterize the collection bucket and record the weight reading. 

7. Record the time when the unit post-check is complete. 

8. Exit the wireless communications with the precipitation gauge. 

9. Confirm that all questions on the OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gauge 

Section of the “Site Survey Questionnaire” are complete. 





Data acquisition for the performance surveys of OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation 

Gauge will be accomplished by recording the information described in the previous sections onto 

data forms. Recorded data will then be entered into the FSSD as described in the following 

sections. The recorded data must be entered into the FSSD and used to generate reports and 

database files that can be used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the NADP 

Program Office (PO), and other data users. 




File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 10 of 15 














Menu 

















Menu 


fewer options than the Office Version given that there are a 

number of functions that are not performed in the field, or by 

field personnel. The buttons on the Field Version main menu 

provide access to reports and forms contained in the database. 


File location 



EEMS, Inc.





Page 11 of 15 

from: 



























information pertaining to the site is included in this form. For 

the most part these forms consist of a number of questions for 

which the user must select the most appropriate answer from a 

drop-down menu. However there are some questions that 

require a numeric input or a text input that is not a drop-down 

selection. Those fields highlighted in blue constitute data that 

is then include in the site Spot Report. 


(Field Form) 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 12 of 15 







• QA Report 



Reports Menu 





















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 13 of 15 








Data recorded by the internal DAS is transferred to a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) 

maintained by the site operator. The procedures used for the transfer and the integrity of the 

transferred data will be verified during the site systems survey. 









Microsoft Access ® will be used to develop the FSAD which will be the database used to manage 

the survey results. The FSAD and examples of the types of forms and screens have been 




each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020, and SOP-EPW07061-1030). 

File location 

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Page 14 of 15 























the information into the FSAD, a first review is performed. Since this is accomplished while the 







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Page 15 of 15 












11.3 Active Communication 








produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1420 








Revision 

No. 



0 Oct 2007 



ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge SOP 




Page 3 of 16 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 





6.3 Calibration and Post-maintenance Checks.......................................................................9 



8.1 Data Entry ......................................................................................................................10 


















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Page 4 of 16 










CAL 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

MDN 

NADP 

NIST 

NTN 

PDA 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 

















File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 5 of 16 



surveys of the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauges located at National Atmospheric Deposition 






The ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge is used to continuously measure the amount of 

precipitation by weight which occurs during each week of site operation. The amount is recorded 

on an internal Campbell Scientific datalogger (DAS). 







The ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge performance surveys include: 




device is operating within defined project accuracy goals provided in the NADP QAPP 


operation within the designated specifications 

• Subsequently re-challenging and/or retesting the gauge 






personnel 

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General methods used for performing a ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge performance survey 

will include: 

• Documenting the existing condition on the forms provided and with digital photographs 

if necessary 









Performance Survey SOPs for each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020, and 

SOP-EPW07061-1030). 










4.1 Training 





File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 7 of 16 


The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of ETI NOAH IV 

Precipitation Gauges: 




• Standard calibration weights (6) 


• Level 







Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL) at Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS). Refinements to the 

method will be incorporated as the NADP Site Survey Program goes forward. 




1. Take pictures of ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge if required to document the 

condition. 

2. Record any observations concerning general ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge 

condition and installation. 

3. Remove the wind shield, if one is present and prevents access to the ETI NOAH IV 

Precipitation Gauge. 

4. Check the level of ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge using a bubble level across the 

inlet of the collector funnel at perpendicular angles. Record findings. 

5. Measure and record the funnel opening size and the distance from the ground to top of 

the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge 

6. During the winter season, check for winterization of ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge, 

and record findings. 

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Page 8 of 16 

7. Note if any insects or insect nests are inside or on the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation 

Gauge. Pay special attention to the optical sensors in the funnel. 

8. Establish a wireless communication with ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge using 

Pocket PC and the Service/Audit Program. 

9. Record the date and time shown on the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge. 

10. Note if there is evidence of precipitation in the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge; 

document current reading. 

11. Remove the inlet orifice from top of the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge, and inspect 

the o-ring. 

12. Carefully lift out the collection chamber, being very careful not to drop chamber onto the 

weighing platform (this could damage the load cell). 

13. Disconnect the two optics cables from their receptacles in the load plate by pulling on the 

connector and not the cable itself. 

14. Remove the gauge housing from the base by loosening the three screws at the bottom of 

the housing that secures it to the base plate. Take care not to hold the gauge housing by 

the black emitters and detectors when removing the outer housing from the gauge base. 

15. Note the condition of o-ring, and any insect activity, corrosion, or debris visible inside 

the gauge housing. Photograph if necessary to document the actual condition. 

16. Inspect the base and weighing mechanism. 

17. Note if the collection chamber is deformed. 

18. Clean the collection chamber and reinstall the chamber in the gauge. Wait 90 seconds 

before documenting a zero reading. 

19. Carefully place the appropriate weight to simulate 0.25inch of precipitation in the bucket. 

Wait 90 seconds before recording the reading. 

20. Repeat the procedure for 0.50, 1, 2, 6, and 10 inches simulated precipitation, recording 

each reading after a 90-second wait time. Repeat the process from highest weight to 

lowest, recording each reading until you complete the final 0.25 inch reading. Record 

chamber zero again when complete. 

21. If the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge is equipped with a precipitation collector lidposition 

recording capabilities, test event recording by simulating wet conditions on the 

precipitation collector. Note that the event is being recorded by ETI NOAH IV 



The following steps are to be performed as routine cleaning and maintenance of the ETI NOAH 

IV Precipitation Gauge: 

1. Clean all parts and base with a soft brush, and canned air, being very careful not to 

damage the load cell. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 9 of 16 

2. Take voltage reading on the back-up battery with the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge 

plugged in to the power source, and record the reading. Un-plug the gauge from the 

power source and wait 3 minutes before taking a voltage reading on the back-up battery. 

Record the reading before plugging the gauge back into the power source. 

3. If the voltage reading is below 11.5 volts, note on the Site Survey Questionnaire that a 

battery replacement is needed. 

6.3 Calibration and Post-maintenance Checks 

1. Carefully reinstall the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge outer housing by placing the 

outer housing over the base assembly and carefully sliding it down to the base plate. 

Align the outer housing by matching the blue alignment dot on the inside of the gauge 

housing to the blue alignment dot on the top plate of the base assembly. 

2. Reconnect the two optical sensor cables to their appropriate connectors in the load plate. 

3. Reinstall the collection chamber by inserting it carefully down into the gauge housing 

and gently onto the platform. Make sure the chamber is not dropped onto the platform. 

This could cause irreversible damage to the load cell. 

4. Record the time of reinstallation of the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge outer housing, 

optical sensor cables, and collection chamber. 

5. If the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge was found to be un-level during pre-calibration 

inspection, level the gauge. 

6. Record the zero weight of collection chamber 90 seconds after reinstallation. 

7. Carefully place the appropriate weight to simulate 0.25 inch of precipitation in the 

bucket, and wait 90 seconds. Record the reading. Repeat the procedure for 0.50, 1, 2, 6, 

and 10 inches of simulated precipitation. Recording each reading after a 90-second wait 

period. Repeat the process from the highest weight to the lowest, recording each reading 

until you complete the final 0.25 inch reading. Record the chamber zero again when 

complete. 

8. If the unit was winterized, re-winterize the collection bucket and record the weight 

reading. 

9. Record the time the post-check of the unit is completed. 

10. Exit the wireless communications with the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge. 

11. Confirm that all questions on the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge section of the “Site 

Survey Questionnaire” are complete. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 10 of 16 





Data acquisition for the performance surveys of the ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gauge will be 























the database. Figure 2 shows the different options the user can choose from: 





File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 11 of 16 


































File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 12 of 16 









Figure 5 is the Site Information Form used by field 

personnel. The station ID, network, site name, operator 

information and other general information pertaining to 

the site is included in this form. For the most part these 

forms consist of a number of questions for which the user 

must select the most appropriate answer from a dropdown 

menu. However there are some questions that 

require a numeric input or a text input that is not a dropdown 

selection. Those fields highlighted in blue 

constitute data that is then include in the site Spot Report. 


From this menu the user can select the site and report from 

the following options (Figure 6): 




• QA Report 


(Field Form) 


Reports Menu 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 13 of 16 




























File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 14 of 16 


Data recorded by the internal DAS is transferred to a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) 

maintained by the site operator. The procedures used for the transfer and the integrity of the 

transferred data will be verified during the site systems survey. 














each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, and SOP-EPW07061-1020). 









File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 15 of 16 































File location 

EEMS, Inc.





Page 16 of 16 











produced. 

File location 

EEMS, Inc.

PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

NWS Stick Precipitation Gauge Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1430 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 



NWS Stick Precipitation Gauge SOP 




Page 3 of 14 






4.1 Training............................................................................................................................6 








8.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................................9 


















File location 

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Page 4 of 14 










AIRMoN 

ATS 

CAL 

EEMS 

EPA 

FSAD 

FSSD 

ISWS 

NADP 

NWS 

PO 

QA 

QAPP 

QC 

SOP 

Atmospheric Integrated Research Network 









National Weather Service 






File location 

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surveys of the NWS Stick Precipitation Gauges located at National Atmospheric Deposition 






The NWS Stick Precipitation Gauge is used to measure the amount of precipitation which occurs 

during each sample day. The amount of precipitation is measured by introducing a prescribed 

stick into the gauge can and reading and recording the precipitation level. 







NWS Stick Precipitation Gauge performance surveys include: 


• Challenging the gauge with a known, and accurately measured volume of water, then 

measuring the depth of water in the can with the prescribed stick to determine if the stick 

is measuring the depth of water within defined project accuracy goals provided in the 

NADP QAPP 


operation within the designated specifications 

• Subsequently re-challenging and/or retesting the gauge 






personnel 

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General methods used for performing a NWS Stick Precipitation Gauge performance survey will 

include: 

• Documenting the existing condition on the forms provided and if necessary with digital 

photographs 



• Performing any required routine maintenance 

• Repeating the “as left” or post-maintenance challenge 





Performance Survey SOP for each network (SOP-EPW07061-1010, SOP-EPW07061-1020, 

SOP-EPW07061-1030). 








approved for use at NADP sites. Procedures for testing and challenging any new equipment will 


4.1 Training 





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The following tools and materials are required to conduct performance surveys of NWS Stick 

Precipitation Gauges: 

• NADP operations manual (AIRMoN) 



• Volumetric flask (accurately measured volume of water) 

• Caliper 













1. Take digital photographs, if necessary to document condition of gauge. 

2. Note if evidence of precipitation is in Stick Gauge; document current reading 

3. Check 45° rule for inlet and record if violated 

4. Note if objects greater than one meter in height are inside the 5 meter radius. 

5. Record what type of rain gauge shield is installed at site (“none”, “Alter”, or “other”). 

6. Check level of Stick Gauge using a bubble level across inlet of collector funnel at 

perpendicular angles and record. 

7. Measure diameter of the inlet and record. 

8. Introduce two know volumes of water into the gauge collection can. Record the reading 

on measurement stick. 

9. Perform the can leak-test by setting the can on a paper towel and observing for wetness. 

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10. Check stability of Stick Gauge and record. 

11. Record observations concerning general Stick Gauge condition and installation. 

12. Record distance from ground to top of gauge. 

13. Record if gauge is on a “stand on” platform. 

14. Record distance from collector (and vertical distance between inlets) to Stick Gauge. 


The following steps are to be performed as routine cleaning and maintenance of the NWS Stick 

Precipitation Gauge: 

1. Empty and clean Stick Gauge collection can and measuring stick. 

2. If Stick Gauge is unstable, secure gauge to base. 

3. If Stick Gauge is un-level, level gauge. 


After performing the maintenance items listed in the previous section, the response of the gauge 

must be re-checked. If the gauge was not within acceptance criteria prior to the maintenance, the 


was corrected by the routine maintenance procedures. The post-maintenance performance checks 

are: 

1. Introduce two know volumes of water into the gauge collection can. Record the 

reading on measurement stick. 

2. Confirm that all fields on the Stick Gauge Survey Data Form are complete. 

3. Confirm that measurement and collection equipment has been returned to operation 

mode. 

Do not make any adjustments to the stick or the stick gauge. 




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Data acquisition for the performance surveys of NWS Stick Precipitation Gauges will be 






















Menu 




from: 










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Menu 


fewer options than the Office Version given that there are 

a number of functions that are not performed in the field, 

or by field personnel. The buttons on the Field Version 

main menu provide access to reports and forms contained 

in the database. Figure 3 shows the different options the 

user can choose form: 
























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(Field Form) 







• QA Report 



Reports Menu 









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Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data from NWS Stick 








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Data and records management procedures are presented in the AIRMoN Site Performance Survey 

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP-EPW07061-1030). 










sections describe the quality process that is not only employed for NADP Site Performance 











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produced. 

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PO Box 357593 


Phone: 352-262-0802 

Fax: 352-331-5893 


Title: 

NADP Site Systems Survey Standard Operating Procedures 



SOP-EPW07061-1500 








Revision 

No. 



0 Sept 2007 



NADP Site Systems Survey SOP 




Page 3 of 27 



1.1 Typical NADP Site Installations......................................................................................8 








4.1 Training..........................................................................................................................14 




6.1 Siting Criteria and Site Information...............................................................................15 

6.1.1 Siting Criteria Tools and Procedures................................................................... 15 

6.1.2 Site Characterization ........................................................................................... 17 

6.2 Routine Maintenance and Minor Repairs.......................................................................17 

6.3 Procedures Assessment ..................................................................................................17 





8.1.1 Data Entry ........................................................................................................... 19 












10.3 Final Data Set.................................................................................................................25 


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AIRMoN 

CAL 

CD 

DAS 

DCN 

EDD 

EEMS 

EPA 

FORF 

FSAD 

FSSD 



compact disc 









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GPS Global Positioning System 

HAL Mercury Analytical Laboratory 

Hg 

mercury 

ISWS Illinois State Water Survey 

LOTO lockout tag-out 

MDN Mercury Deposition Network 

NADP National Atmospheric Deposition Program 

NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology 

NTN National Trends Network 

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration 

NWS National Weather Service 

PDA Personal Digital Assistant 

PO 


QA 


QAPP quality assurance project plan 

QC 


SOP standard operating procedure 

WAAS wide area augmentation system 

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This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) describes the procedures for conducting systems 

surveys of National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) field stations. The NADP is a 

cooperative, multi-agency program of monitoring stations designed to measure precipitation 

chemistry and estimate atmospheric deposition of various pollutant ions and mercury. The 

NADP is comprised of three networks, the National Trends Network (NTN), the Mercury 

Deposition Network (MDN), and the Atmospheric Integrated Research Monitoring Network 

(AIRMoN). All three networks of the NADP are focused on long-term monitoring and trends. 

Various local, state, and federal agencies, as well as universities and other interested groups are 

responsible for, and contribute to, the operation of the stations. 

The purpose of a systems survey is to qualitatively appraise the total measurement system. This 

includes a thorough, on-site evaluation of facilities, equipment, personnel, training, procedures, 

documentation, site representativeness and reporting aspects of the field operations systems. 

Field systems survey results are used to ensure that good quality assurance/quality control 

(QA/QC) practices are being applied as defined in the NADP Quality Management Plan (QMP). 

Proper implementation of a survey (or audit) program ensures data integrity and assesses data 

accuracy. 

NADP Site Systems Surveys include: 

• Verifying that the site conforms to the characteristics as described in the NADP 

QMP. 

• Verifying that the instruments and equipment are sited, installed, maintained, and 

operated regarding Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 

compliance. 

• Verifying that the instruments and equipment are properly sited, installed, 

maintained, and operated with respect to project requirements and guidelines. 

• Verifying that procedures are in place to ensure that collected data are of sufficient 

quality to meet the project objectives. 

• Verifying that current documentation relating to each component of the 

measurement system is on-site. 

• Observing and evaluating the site operator’s proficiency of his/her duties and the 

understanding of the project goals. 

• Recording all information including any sketches or photographs using the 


• Recording and reporting any condition that affects data quality or that requires 

additional attention using the appropriate form(s) and FSSD. 

• Distributing survey results, reports, and documentation to the designated project 

personnel. 

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1.1 Typical NADP Site Installations 

The networks of the NADP currently consist of approximately 250 NTN sites, 100 MDN sites, 

and 7 AIRMoN sites operating throughout the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and 

the Virgin Islands. The number and location of operational sites varies at any time. A list of 

active sites and locations can be found in the “Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) – Support 

for Conducting Systems and Performance Surveys of National Atmospheric Monitoring Stations” 

(referred to from this point on as NADP Site Survey Program QAPP). An updated list may be 

available on the NADP website: http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu/. 

The program goal is to visit and survey approximately 90 sites per year from the three individual 

networks, and each site in the NADP once approximately every three years. The current survey 

schedule can be found at ftp://67.192.214.230 in the NADP Final directory. 


gage, an approved precipitation collector, a sample weighing device, equipment manuals, 

approved operating procedures, and site supplies. The approved NADP measurement and 

sampling equipment includes: 

• Belfort 5-780 Mechanical Precipitation Gage 

• Aerochem Metrics/Loda (ACM type) NTN Precipitation Collector 

• ACM MDN Precipitation Collector 

• N-CON Precipitation Collector 

• ETI NOAH IV Electronic Precipitation Gage 

• OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation Gage 

• National Weather Service (NWS) Stick Precipitation Gage 


• Various electronic scales 

• Various pH meters and electrodes 

• Various conductivity meters and cells 


Due to the number and location of the sites in the network, the site systems survey program is a 



Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Project Officer and site liaisons at the NADP Program 

Office (PO), the Central Analytical Laboratory (CAL), and the Hg Analytical Laboratory (HAL) 

must be contacted. Their contact information is listed below: 

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Michael Kolian 202-343-9261 kolian.michael@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

Melissa Rury 202-343-9882 rury.melissa@epa.gov EPA Project Officer 

Mark Rhodes 217-244-6413 Rhodes1@illinois.edu NADP QA Manager 

Matt Layden 217-244-0372 ntn@sws.uiuc.edu CAL Liaison 

Roger Claybrooke 217-244-2838 dclay@sws.uiuc.edu NADP PO 

Doug Disney 206-622-6960 dougd@frontiergeosciences.com HAL Liaison 

Gerard van der Jagt 206-622-6960 gerardj@frontiergeosciences.com HAL Liaison 

Jane Rothert 217-333-7942 airmon@uiuc.edu AIRMoN Liaison 







Site #1 

Site #2 

Site #3 

: 







Precipitation gage (manufacturer, model) 




Conductivity (manufacturer, model) 







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Figure 1 is an example of the initial site information for site WA14 as received from the NADP 

PO. 

Figure 1. NADP Pre-Audit Site Information NTN Site WA14 



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File. 





conversations, correspondence, and completed site information data tables. 





Survey File and copied and included in the Site Survey Kit to be provided to the Survey Team 

Member responsible for conducting the site survey. 


At this step in the systems survey procedures, a Site Survey Kit will be prepared at EEMS. The 

Site Survey Kit will be assembled utilizing the preliminary information gathered for each site. 

The site-specific tools, equipment, maintenance items, forms, certification records, Personal 


survey (both performance and systems) of each site in the planned trip will be inventoried and 

packed for shipment. 

Arrangements will be made with the Survey Team Member for the shipment of the kit to the 

field. Upon receipt of the Site Survey Kit, the Survey Team Member will inspect the kit and 

report any damaged or missing articles. After completing any additional shipments that may be 

necessary, the Site Survey Kit inventory and shipping log will be included in the Site Survey File. 

File location 

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Page 12 of 27 


and providing the Survey Team Member with the required materials to complete the planned 

surveys. Once receipt of the complete and functional survey kit is confirmed by the Survey Team 

Member, the preliminary Site Survey File is complete. Post-survey information will be included 

following the site visit and survey by the Survey Team Member. 


The general qualitative methods used for performing a NADP Site Systems Survey will include 

the completion of the preliminary survey activities described in the previous sections and then: 

• Traveling to the site and verifying that the site information previously obtained is 

correct 

• Verifying that the instruments and equipment are properly sited and installed with 

respect to project requirements and guidelines by using the site sketch and surveying 

tools 

• Verifying by observation that the site equipment and instruments are properly 

maintained and operated, and correcting deficiencies where possible 

• Verifying by reviewing and observing that procedures are in place to ensure that 

collected data are of sufficient quality to meet the project objectives 

• Verifying by observation that the current documentation for each component of the 

measurement system is on-site 

• Observing and evaluating the site operator’s proficiency of his/her duties and the 

understanding of the project goals 

• Recording all information including any sketches or photographs using the 

appropriate form(s) and FSSD 

• Creating backup files and transferring the hardcopy recorded data and the electronic 

FSSD files to the EEMS data management facility 

• Generating the exit report (Spot Report) of the survey activities from the FSSD 

within 24 hours of completing the survey 

• Within 24 hours of completing the survey, verbally reporting the results of the 

survey to the site liaison with any requests for additional attention or activities to be 

performed at the site 

The methods used to complete the siting criteria evaluation portion of a site systems survey will 

be the same for all three networks of the NADP. Those methods are by observations and 

measurements of the direction, distance, height, and width of all objects within a 30 meter radius 

of the precipitation collector. 

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Other methods are specific and unique to the measurement and collection equipment and 

instrumentation at each site. 


The list of approved NADP site equipment and instrumentation is presented in Section 1.1. The 


each site. Table 3 identifies the specific SOP for the performance survey of the equipment or 

instrumentation type. Some instrument specific systems methods that include routine 

maintenance are described in the instrument performance SOPs. This SOP includes maintenance 

and systems checks that are not included in the performance SOPs. 



Belfort 5-780 Mechanical Precipitation Gage SOP-EPW07061-1400 1 May 2008 

OTT NADP Pluvio Electronic Precipitation 

Gage 

SOP-EPW07061-1410 1 May 2008 

ETI NOAH IV Precipitation Gage SOP-EPW07061-1420 1 May 2008 

NWS Stick Precipitation Gage SOP-EPW07061-1430 1 May 2008 


ACM MDN Precipitation Collector SOP-EPW07061-1320 1 May 2008 

N-CON MDN Precipitation Collector SOP-EPW07061-1330 1 May 2008 

Balance (various) SOP-EPW07061-1210 1 May 2008 

pH meter (various) SOP-EPW07061-1220 1 May 2008 

Conductivity meter (various) SOP-EPW07061-1230 1 May 2008 

Using this SOP and those presented in Table 3, a systems survey can be performed at any 

currently operating NADP site. As new equipment or instrumentation is approved for use at 

NADP sites, new methods and procedures will be developed for routine maintenance and systems 

tests of those instruments. Those methods will be incorporated into this SOP and Table 3. 




SOP-EPW07061-1030) 

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Page 14 of 27 





installation, repair, maintenance, calibration, and operation of precipitation gages, precipitation 



approved for use in the NADP. Procedures for assessing and evaluating the instrumentation 

installation, operation, and maintenance will be developed with the cooperation of the NADP and 

subcommittees. 

4.1 Training 






Together with this SOP, the site specific instrument SOPs listed in Table 3 are required for 

conducting systems surveys at NADP sites. They are intended to be used by qualified technicians 

that understand general instrument operation and survey techniques. 



materials are required to perform NADP site systems surveys. 

• NADP QAPP 

• Site Survey File for each site in the planned trip 

• Hardcopy data forms (forms provided in each Site Survey File) 


• Global Positioning System (GPS) 



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• Certified compass 

• Certified range finder 

• Calipers 

• Tape measure 


The methods described in the following sections are separated into categories for similar system 

survey activities. Where possible analogous systems checks performed on different types of 

instrumentation are included within the same method. As mentioned in section 2.1, some of the 

systems checks are directly related to the performance checks and are included in those SOPs. 

This SOP includes and summarizes the remaining systems checks. The rational and development 

of those procedures are discussed in the following sections. Survey tools and instruments used as 

part of this SOP are also carefully calibrated and certified. 

6.1 Siting Criteria and Site Information 

The purpose of these systems checks is to characterize the site and the surroundings. This is 

critical for data users in order to evaluate data collected at the site and for comparing that data to 

that of other sites. The general site information gathered during the preliminary phase of data 

collection regarding site personnel and equipment is verified during these activities. 

The site information is verified by observing the site conditions regarding operating equipment, 

and interviewing the site personnel and comparing those observations to the data provided in the 

Site Survey File. Data on the forms in the Site Survey File are then accepted or corrected as 

required. Refer to the Site Information data form included in Appendix A for a complete list of 

site information data fields. This information will then be delivered to the NADP PO to be 

incorporated into the site information database. It is anticipated that this information will be 

updated as necessary by the NADP PO and then provided as part of the preliminary survey 

information prior to the next survey scheduled for the same site. 

6.1.1 Siting Criteria Tools and Procedures 

Siting criteria checks and site characterization are accomplished by carefully measuring and 

documenting both the instrumentation and other objects within a 30 meter radius of the 

precipitation collector. The measurement tools used by the survey team include: 

• Certified survey quality compass 

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• Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) GPS 

• Certified range finder 

• Various measurement devices 

• Site survey sketch 

• Site Sketch Table 

• 4.0 mega pixel (minimum) digital camera 

• Directional indicator 

The following steps are performed during siting criteria systems checks: 

1. Remove and secure any sample collecting media from the collector. 

2. Position the lid over the empty dry bucket holder allowing the empty wet bucket holder 

to be exposed. 

3. Determine the location of the collector by positioning the GPS over the wet bucket 

holder. 

4. Remove the GPS and position the compass over the wet bucket holder. 

5. From magnetic north and proceeding in a clockwise direction, determine the direction of 

every object taller than 1 meter and wider than 5 centimeters within a 30 meter radius. 

Determine the distance to the object using the appropriate measuring device (range finder 

or other). 

6. Verify the site sketch or create a sketch if one is not available. 

7. Complete the inventory of other items within a 5 meter radius of the gage and collector as 

required on the siting criteria data form. 

8. Confirm the installation of a wind shield if required. 

9. Confirm spatial requirements between gage and collector. 

10. Confirm 45 degree rule adherence. 

11. Complete the systems data entry forms for all the required fields. 

12. Complete the performance tests (use appropriate SOP) and any necessary maintenance as 

indicated on the data entry forms. 

13. Perform the site characterization detailed in section 6.1.2 

14. Return the collection media to the proper operating mode. 

Refer to the Siting Criteria data form included in Appendix A for a complete list of data fields. 

Copies of the calibration/certification documentation for the field test equipment can be found at 

the EEMS FTP website: ftp://67.192.214.230 in the NADP Final directory. 

In order to accurately determine the direction and distance of the objects within the 30 meter 

radius, certified measurement devices will be used. The compass will be certified annually by an 

independent laboratory. The range finder will be certified quarterly at the EEMS facility by 

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Page 17 of 27 

comparison with distance measurements using a tape measure. The tape measure will be properly 

maintained at the EEMS facility in a manner that will preserve its condition. The certification 

and documentation of these tools will be the responsibility of the QA Manager. 

6.1.2 Site Characterization 

In order to ensure that the site is representative and give data users a sense of the site 

surroundings, the site must be documented by acquiring digital photographs. Using a digital 

camera of not less than 4.0 mega pixels, perform the following: 

1. Install the directional indicator in place of the wet bucket. 

2. Take 8 photographs looking toward the cardinal directions of N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, 

and NW from 5 to 10 meters from the collector. 

3. Obtain any additional photographs if necessary to adequately document the site, or site 

equipment and instrumentation condition. Digital photographs of the sites shall follow a 

consistent naming convention. Following the site survey all site images will be uploaded 

to ftp://67.192.214.230 . Current site images can be found at ftp://67.192.214.230 in the 

NADP Final/Site Files directory. 

6.2 Routine Maintenance and Minor Repairs 

The majority of the required maintenance activities are included in the individual instrument 

SOPs and documented on the performance survey data forms. Any additional maintenance items 

contained on the systems data forms must be performed and documented. Those items will 

include: 

• Level and stabilize gages and collectors where possible 

• Check and fill Belfort dash pot reservoir 

• Assess site power supply and correct any potential issues 

• Assess and evaluate the condition of the site instrumentation 

• Inventory site manuals and documentation and advise of deficiencies 

• Inventory site supplies, document and report any deficiencies 

6.3 Procedures Assessment 

Proper techniques and procedures employed by site personnel are essential for maintaining 

sample quality. The site operator’s procedures must be evaluated as part of a systems survey to 

assess the quality of the overall measurement system. Record the evaluation and 

recommendations (if any) on the Site Information data form. 

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Observe the site operator performing actual sample handling and processing procedures, or 

provide the site operator with a simulated sample and observe the procedures. Assess the site 

operator’s technique with regard to the procedures provided for the particular equipment and 

NADP network. Provide assistance and training if necessary adhering to the procedures detailed 

in the NADP manuals and QAPP. 

Evaluate the site operator’s technique regarding the interpretation of the precipitation chart if that 

is part of the site procedures. Provide any necessary training as detailed in the NADP manuals 

and QMP documentation. 

Assess the site operator’s recordkeeping procedures and provide assistance and training as 

detailed in the NADP manuals and QMP documentation. 


The systems and performance surveys are intended to assess the overall sample and data 

collection and measurement process. As such, the program procedures will address poorly or 

malfunctioning site instrumentation. Routine maintenance and minor repair of the site equipment 

will be performed to continue or restore the operation to the NADP specifications. In order to 




procedures. The experience of the site Survey Team Member will ensure exceptional 


The list of items that are routinely addressed during the survey is included in Table 6 of the 

NADP Site Survey Program QAPP. 









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compromised. If necessary a replacement item will be sent to the Survey Technician from the 

EEMS facility to ensure accurate survey results. 


Data acquisition at most NADP sites is accomplished by visual observations, made by site 

operators, and site instrument measurements on hardcopy media (rain gage charts). These are 

manually recorded to hardcopy forms by the site operator and then sent to the CAL. As 

electronic precipitation gages are deployed at NADP sites, data acquisition will be accomplished 

by radio transmission to handheld data devices and then electronically sent to the CAL. Some 

sites will also employ direct telemetry from the site equipment to the CAL. 

Data acquisition for systems surveys of NADP sites will be accomplished by recording the 

information described in the previous sections onto data forms. Recorded data will then be 

entered into the FSSD as described in the following sections. 














8.1.1.1 User Type Selection Menu 





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office personnel or field personnel to the corresponding forms, function and repots. Figure 2 

shows this first screen. 

8.1.1.2 NADP Survey Database – Office Version Main Menu 




choose from: 













8.1.1.3 NADP Survey Database – Field Version Main Menu 















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enter data. This menu provides the user with the 

following options: 














8.1.1.5 Typical Data Entry Form 














(Field Form) 

8.1.1.6 Preview Report Menu 






• QA Report 


Reports Menu 

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Computer hardware and software are not used by the NADP to collect data at the sites. Some 

sites utilize handheld data devices as previously described, and their use is anticipated to increase 

as more electronic gages are installed. 




The Survey Team Member will have an IBM ® compatible field laptop computer to be used to 

record and manage the site survey data. The laptop will be suitable for field use in terms of 

battery operation, portability, and sturdiness. 






After data entry is completed, the required Spot Report can be generated and distributed. This 

will contain the maintenance items required (if any) at the site. The electronic data tables will 

also be generated and exported to the duplicate database at EEMS. 






thumb drive will be sent, together with the final hardcopy data forms from the last site visited, to 

EEMS. The field computer which at this point also contains a copy of the same information will 

be sent to EEMS separately. Prior to the field computer and Site Survey Kit being sent back to 

EEMS, two copies of the site survey data tables and all other information (digital photos, 

electronic reports, etc) will be written to compact disc (CD). One disc will be included with the 

Site Survey Kit and returned to EEMS, and one disc will be kept by the Survey Technician for his 

or her records. 

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Survey Kit. As information is received at EEMS following site visits, the information will be 

logged and that record will be added to the Site Survey File. 










other than the site Survey Team Member. The entry will be overseen by the QA Manager. 




data form or discussion with the Survey Team Member or site operator. 





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has approved the site survey data tables, the site survey data will be considered final. At this 

stage in the data management process following entry of each and every site survey data set, the 

database will be backed up to an external hard drive on-site and off-site. 


From the final data set, a Site Survey Performance Report is generated and distributed for each 






















The EEMS personnel and Survey Team Members are aware of the significance of the survey 



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sections describe the quality process that is not only employed for NADP site survey procedures, 

but for all projects at EEMS. 


The NADP Site Survey Program management structure ensures that sufficient review and QA/QC 







survey kit materials for the site Survey Team Member. 

Review and verification continue during the survey process. By requiring the Survey Team 

Member to write the observations and results on hardcopy forms and then read the forms while 

entering the information into the FSSD, a first review is performed. Since this is accomplished 

while the Survey Team Member is at, or near the site, any discrepancies can be addressed by 

double-checking the test of the instrument or the site observation. 







in the survey results or site survey procedures. This began with the review of the documentation 

as described and the incorporation of comments and suggestions. The process will continue as 








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produced. 

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Appendix B. 

Site Performance Survey Questionnaire

1 of 18 

Site Information Field Form 

Station ID: 

Network: 

NC41 

NTN 

On File Value 

Updated Value 

1. Station name: 

Finley Farm 

2. Network: NTN 

3. Survey start date/time: 

4. Survey end date/time: 

OPERATOR INFORMATION 

5. Operator's name: 

6. Operator's telephone number: 

Erin Silva 

919 515-9496 

7. Operator's telephone extension: 

8. Operator's fax number: 

9. Operator's email: 

esilva@mindspring.com 

10. Operator's cell phone number: 

OTHER MONITORING TAKING PLACE 

On File Value 

Updated Value 

11. Does site conduct other environmental data collection 

12. Non - NADP precipitation chemistry 

13. Gas monitoring - SOx / NOx / CO / etc. 

14. IMPROVE 

15. CASTNET 

16. AIRMoN - dry deposition station 

17. PM-10, PM-2.5, TSP 

18. UV-b 

19. SURFRAD 

20. CRN (Climate Reference Network) 

21. NWS (National Weather Service) 

23. NEON (National Ecological Observatory Network) 

22. Other weather monitoring 

24. Specify other weather monitoring program: 

Enter -39 in numerical fields for items that are "NOT APPLICABLE" 

Enter -69 in numerical fields for "UNABLE TO TEST ITEM" 

Enter -99 in numerical fields for items with a "MISSING VALUE" 


Indicates item included in Spot Report 

Page 1 of 3

2 of 18 

25. Other environmental monitoring 

26. Specify other environmental monitoring program: 

OTHER INFORMATION 

27. Survey cancelled due to precipitation 

28. Precipitation during visit 

29. Date of rescheduled survey: 

30. Ambient temperature - deg. C 

31. Does site report daylight savings time on FORF 

YES 

YES 

YES 

NO 

NO 

NOT APPLICABLE 

NO 

32. EEMS field team leader: ERIC HEBERT SANDY GRENVILLE SCOTTY DOSSETT 

POWER SUPPLY 

33. Electrical connections are in good condition 

34. Collector connected to a GFCI circuit 

35. Power supply 

36. Solar power 

37. Indicate solar output capacity (Watts): 

38. Solar panel operating properly, no further maintenance 

is needed 

YES NO NOT APPLICABLE MISSING UNABLE TO TEST 


AC DC AC/DC 


-39 -69 -99 


OPERATOR TECHNIQUE FOR CHANGING SAMPLES 

39. Is sampling media quality maintained 

40. Operator is competent 

41. No CAL/HAL follow-up needed with operator on 

technique/training 

42. Does operator check sensor heater before after 

collector opening 





43. Is recordkeeping adequate YES NO NOT APPLICABLE MISSING UNABLE TO TEST 






Page 2 of 3

3 of 18 

Comments on site information: 

Feedback from site operator: 

Other attendees names and titles: 

Comments on site power: 






Page 3 of 3

4 of 18 

Siting Criteria Field Form 

Station ID 

Network: 

NC41 

NTN 

On File Value 

Updated Value 

1. Site Type 

URBAN 

SUBURBAN 

RURAL 

ISOLATED 

SPEICAL RESEARCH 

2. Is the orifice of the collector +/- .3 m of raingage (elevation) 

YES 

NO 

3. Distance from collector to primary raingage (meters) 

5.6 

4. Raingage mounting 

GROUNDLEVEL 

PLATFORM 

BUILDING 

OTHER 

5. Height of raingage (meters) 

0 

6. Raingage ground cover, 30 m radius 

NATURAL 

ARTIFICIAL 

NATURAL & ARTIFICIAL 

7. 45 degree rule met (raingage) 

YES 

NO 

8. If raingage mounting is Building, is 30 degree rule met 

YES NO N/A 

9. 30 degree rule for trees met (raingage) 

10. 30 degree rule for buildings met (raingage) 

11. No objects > 1 m height inside 5 m radius (raingage) 

12. No fences > 1 m height inside 2 m radius (raingage) 

13. No vegetation height > 0.6 m within 5 m radius (raingage) 

14. Does NADP require a raingage wind shield at this site NO 

YES 

YES 

YES 

YES 

YES 

YES 

NO 

NO 

NO 

NO 

NO 

NO 






Page 1 of 4

5 of 18 

On File Value 

Updated Value 

15. If raingage wind shield present, is it installed correctly 

16. Raingage wind shield type 

17. Collector mounting 

YES NO N/A 

NONE 

ALTER TYPE 

OTHER 

GROUNDLEVEL 

PLATFORM 

BUILDING 

OTHER 

18. Height of collector (meters) 0 

19. Collector ground cover, 30 m radius 

NATURAL 

ARTIFICIAL 

NATURAL & ARTIFICIAL 

20. Collector and sensor oriented properly 

YES 

NO 

21. If collector and sensor are not oriented properly, was orientation corrected 

YES NO N/A 

MISSING 

UNABLE TO TEST 

22. 45 degree rule met (collector) 

YES 

NO 

23. If collector mounting is Building, is 30 degree rule met 

YES NO N/A 

MISSING 


24. 30 degree rule for trees met (collector) 

YES 

NO 

25. 30 degree rule for buildings met (collector) 

YES 

NO 

26. No objects > 1 m height within 5 m radius (collector) 

YES 

NO 

27. No fences > 1 m height inside 5 m radius (collector) 

YES 

NO 

28. No vegetation height > 0.6 m within 5 m radius (collector) 

YES 

NO 

29. No sources of treated lumber inside 5 m radius (collector) 

YES NO N/A 

MISSING 







Page 2 of 4

6 of 18 

On File Value 

Updated Value 

30. No galvanized metal inside 5 m radius (MDN collector) 

31. No pastures and agricultural activity within 20 m radius 

YES NO N/A 

MISSING 


YES NO N/A 

MISSING 


32. No herbicides and fertilizers used within 20 m radius 

33. Collector snow roof present 

YES 

YES 

NO 

NO 

34. If collector snow roof present, is it present year round 

YES NO N/A 

35. Roads meet NADP siting criteria 

36. Waterways meet NADP siting criteria 

YES 

YES 

NO 

NO 

37. Airports meet NADP siting criteria 

YES 

NO 

38. Animal operations meet NADP siting criteria (NTN and AIRMoN only) 

39. Combustion sources meet NADP siting criteria (MDN only) 

YES NO N/A 

YES NO N/A 

40. Parking lots and maintenance areas meet NADP siting criteria 

41. Storage areas (fertilizers, road salt, manure, etc) meet NADP siting criteria 

YES 

YES 

NO 

NO 

42. Metalworking operations meet NADP siting criteria (MDN only) 

YES NO N/A 

43. GPS site latitude - decimal degrees 35.7288 

44. GPS site longitude - decimal degrees -78.6802 

45. GPS site altitude - meters 120 

46. Indicated GPS accuracy - meters 3 

47. No significant changes to local site conditions within 500 meters of 

the collector since previous survey 

YES 

NO 






Page 3 of 4

7 of 18 

On File Value 

Updated Value 

Comments on siting criteria including recommendations for improvement: 






Page 4 of 4

ACM Collector Field Form 

Station ID: NC41 

8 of 18 

Network: 

NTN 

On File Value 

1. Does collector cycle under battery power 

2. Has linear actuator been installed 

3. Were the correct fuses found 

4. Were all fuse problems corrected during survey 

5. Battery capacity - cold crank amps 

6. Batteries in good condition 

Updated Value 





-39 -69 -99 


7. Order replacement ACM battery YES NO 

8. Battery pass load test 


9. Precipitation collector Manufacturer ACM 

ACM 

LODA 

10. Heated base in winter 

11. Heated arms in winter 

12. Heated lid in winter 

13. Correct counter weight 

14. Are boots used for lid arms 

15. Base not enclosed to ground 

16. Is collector level 

17. If collector is not level, was collector leveled 

18. Is collector stable 

19. If collector is not stable, was collector stabilized 

20. Number of tie down springs needed (if required) 

21. Is drive rod straight 

22. Was arm alignment lubricated (NTN and AIRMoN) 

23. Distance ground to top of bucket - meters -39 

24. Dry side bucket is clean 

25. Dry side bucket or bag is changed 

26. Does lid seal properly 











-39 -69 -99 



-39 -69 -99 









Page 1 of 3

9 of 18 

27. Lid liner in good condition YES NO NOT APPLICABLE MISSING UNABLE TO TEST 

28. Dry bucket holder height (inches) 

-39 

-39 -69 -99 

29. Wet bucket holder height (inches) 

30. Blue clip in good condition 

31. Arm boots in good condition 

32. Chimney cap in good condition 

-39 

-39 -69 -99 




33. Does collector have a motor box inspection door 

34. Fan in good condition 

35. Cooling fan thermostat in good condition 

36. Heater in good condition 

37. Heater thermostat in good condition 

38. Has flush wall filter mount been installed 

39. Filter in good condition 

40. Lab jack in good condition 

41. Overflow bucket in good condition 

42. Graduated cylinder in good condition 

43. Indicated temperature on max / min thermometer (oF) 

44. Survey team's temperature reading (oF) 

45. Max / min thermometer in acceptable limits 

46. Is 'as found' caulk around chimney in good condition 

47. Was chimney recaulked by survey team 

48. Dry side bag installed correctly 

49. Correct sensor grid type 

50. Does sensor respond to a drop of water 

51. Temperature of sensor inactivated (deg. C) 

52. Maximum temperature =

10 of 18 

57. Voltage of motorbox at E.R. terminal (collector open) 

58. Voltage of raingage E.R. terminal (collector open) 

59. Clutch lift 2 raingage weights 

60. Motorbox operates within acceptable limits 

-39 -69 -99 

-39 -69 -99 


YES NO UNABLE TO TEST 

61. Order replacement ACM motorbox YES NO 

Describe any alterations to collector by site operator: 

Other adjustments made to collector by survey team: 

Follow-up corrections needed for collector: 

Comments on ACM type collector: 

Comments on ACM type sensor and motorbox: 






Page 3 of 3

Belfort Gage Field Form 


Network: 

NTN 

11 of 18 

1. Is 8 inch orifice round YES NO NOT APPLICABLE MISSING UNABLE TO TEST 

2. Does site have raingage funnel 

3. Is gage level 

4. If gage is not level, was it re-leveled 

5. Is gage stable 

6. If the gage is not stable, was it stabilized 

7. Clock operates properly 'as found' 

8. E.R. solenoid operates properly 'as found' 

9. No dashpot fluid added 

10. Order dashpot fluid 

11. Order raingage ink 

12. Order replacement pen nibs 











0 1 2 3 

Post Calibration 

Standard Weights Added Equivalent Height As Found As Left 

Equivalent Height 

Baseline gage reading inches 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 




Belfort Field Form 


Page 1 of 2

12 of 18 

13. Was the 'as found' zero plate set properly 


14. Was the 'as found' turn over set properly 

15. Was the 'as found' event recorder set properly 



16. Order replacement gage 


17. Has Belfort " RED " knob modification been made 


18. Comments on Belfort raingage (include any repairs and adjustments) 




Belfort Field Form 


Page 2 of 2

13 of 18 

Field Laboratory Field Form 


Network: NTN 

1. Does site conduct field chemistry 

2. Is laboratory temperature controlled 



3. pH meter simulation test 7.00 

4. pH meter simulation test 4.00 

5. Acceptable conductivity measurement techniques 


6. Target conductivity of audit sample 

7. Measured conductivity of audit sample 

8. Acceptable pH measurement techniques 


9. Target pH of audit sample 

10. Measured pH of audit sample 

11. Order pH probe 

12. Good weighing practices 



Standard Weight 

Scale Response 

13. Calibration Std.Wt. (821g) 




17. Are samples stored and shipped properly 


18. Temperature of blank bottles in refrigerator 

Field Lab Comments: 

No comments 





Field Laboratory Field Form 

Page 1 of 1

14 of 18 

Site Supplies Field Form 

Station ID: 

Network: 

NC41 

NTN 

Clean Supplies 

1. MDN Coolers 

2. Unused buckets in bags, ready to be used 

3. Unused bucket lids in bags, ready to be used 

4. Unused 1-L sample bottles in bags, ready to be used 

5. Unused 250-mL sample bottles in bags, ready to 

be used (AIRMoN) 

NTN Shipping Boxes 

6. Large shipping boxes 

7. Small 1-L bottle boxes 

Used Supplies 

8. Wet side used buckets, do not include dry side 

or discard buckets 

9. Used bucket lids 

10. Used 1-L sample bottles 

11. Used 250 mL sample bottles (AIRMoN) 

12. No used collector and raingage components on hand 

YES NO UNABLE TO TEST 

13. Sample mailers on hand Black Box w/blue tape 

15. Ice Packs 

14. Temperature blank bottles on hand 




Field Supplies Field Form 


Page 1 of 2

15 of 18 

Supplies Needed 

16. Order Site Operations Manual/SOPS 

17. Order raingage manual 

18. Order copy of training video 

19. Order wash bottle 

20. Order deionized water 

21. Order disposable towels 

22. Order 4 ml polystyrene sampling vials 








23. Order vial style 

24. Order pH 4.0 buffer solution 

25. Order pH 7.0 buffer solution 

26. Order specific conductance standard 

27. Order 4.3 Quality control check sample 

28. Order electrode fill solution 

29. Order blank field forms 

30. Order blank raingage charts 

31. Order NADP vial holder 

32. Order NADP vial holder cover 

33. Order gloves 

NONE SHORT LONG NOT APPLICABLE 










NONE SMALL MEDIUM LARGE 

34. Comments on supplies needed: 




Field Supplies Field Form 


Page 2 of 2

16 of 18 

Backup Raingage Field Form 

Station ID: 

Network: 

NC41 

NTN 

1. Type of backup gage within 30 m of NADP collector 

None 

TIPPING BUCKET 

STICK 

BELFORT 

NOAH IV 

OTT 

OTHER 

2. Is the orifice of the collector +/- .3 m of backup raingage 

YES 

NO 

3. Distance from collector to backup raingage (meters) 

-39 

4. Backup raingage ground cover, 30 m radius 

NATURAL 

ARTIFICIAL 

NATURAL + ARTIFICIAL 

5. 45 degree rule met (backup raingage) 

YES 

NO 

6. If backup raingage mounting is Building, is 30 degree rule met 

YES NO N/A 

7. 30 degree rule for trees met (backup raingage) 

YES 

NO 

8. 30 degree rule for buildings met (backup raingage) 

YES 

NO 

9. No objects > 1 m height inside 5 m radius (backup raingage) 

YES 

NO 

10. No fences > 1 m height inside 2 m radius (backup raingage) 

YES 

NO 

11. No vegetation height > 0.6 m within 5 m radius (backup raingage) 

YES 

NO 

12. If backup raingage wind shield present, is it installed correctly 

13. Backup raingage wind shield type 


NONE ALTER TYPE OTHER 

14. Backup gage comments: 





Backup Raingage Field Form Page 1 of 1

17 of 18 

Object Field Form 

Station ID: 

Network: 

NC41 

NTN 

Object Description 

Azimuth 

(degrees) 

Distance 

(meters) 

Length 

(meters) 

Width 

(meters) 

Height 

(meters) 

PLANT CHAMBER 9 23.2 

POST 43 22.5 

POST 49 16.6 



BELFORT 407 5.4 

END OF WOOD FENCE 111 27.5 

EDGE OF SCRAP PILE 113 24.6 

METAL BOX 131 27.8 

TREE 289 28.2 

POST 295 8.7 


NTN COLLECTOR 0 0.0 


POST 35 22.5 

POST 38 16.6 


BELFORT 95 5.4 

END OF WOOD FENCE 98 27.5 

EDGE OF SCRAP PILE 127 25.1 

EDGE OF PLOWED FIELD 145 20.2 

EDGE OF PLOWED FIELD 207 19.4 

POST 289 8.7 

Monday, February 09, 2009 Page 1 of 2

18 of 18 

Object Description 

Azimuth 

(degrees) 

Distance 

(meters) 

Length 

(meters) 

Width 

(meters) 

Height 

(meters) 


Other Objects 

Monday, February 09, 2009 Page 2 of 2

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