ABSTRACT
One of the major purposes of a preliminary field reconnaissance will be the conduction of some flow studies as well as the identification of certain stream characteristics. An effective water quality study requires preliminary field work and data gathering exercises. Elements for consideration in the field reconnaissance program include the reconnaissance crew, preliminary tour, studies of water flow and stream characteristics, supplies and services necessary for sampling, and the development of contacts with local officials who may be of assistance in the sampling program. A preliminary tour of the study area can be invaluable to the reconnaissance team in enabling them to get the general "lay of the land" and identify various basin characteristics. The uses of water from the study river, either present or future, constitute one of the prime reasons for the planning and conduction of a study of water quality and contamination.
