WATER QUALITY : ASSESSMENT AND PROTECTION

This Note begins with a discussion about general concepts of water quality and integrated water resources management, the objectives of water quality assessment, and the iterative steps in water quality assessment and protection. Thereafter, it discusses water quality standards; information needs and monitoring networks, sampling and analysis of water quality; processing and interpretation of data; water quality management programs; and the general economic, legal, and institutional framework required for water quality management. The Note finishes with some concluding remarks and suggested reading for those seeking more detailed information. Appendixes 1 and 2 provide a glossary of relevant terminology and concepts and a summary of water quality standards.