Specifications include, but are not limited to: It is important that all major runoff events be successfully sampled because the relationship between concentration and discharge may change depending on runoff source (e.g. snowmelt or storm). Sample collection will still be conducted during low flow periods but at a lesser intensity. During major runoff events (especially spring runoff) sampling may need to be done on a daily or every other day basis depending on the “flashiness” of the system. No more than one sample per day should be collected unless for a quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) sample. Staff collecting the stream chemistry data must closely monitor weather and stream conditions and coordinate with MPCA staff to decide when best to monitor. Because storms may come up suddenly, staff must be prepared to monitor with little advanced warning. Because of these qualifications/limitations, this type of monitoring is not considered compatible with volunteer participation or “fixed schedule” sampling. A backup sampler will need to be identified and trained to cover sampling when the primary sampler is unavailable.