Students learn how to analyze soil samples for metals in the field using an XRF analyzer. To make things more interesting, everyone brought samples with them to the class to analyze, which made for some interesting discussions in the field.

Students learn correct ground-water sampling techniques as they operate a gear-drive pump in one of the Field School's training wells. Students learn why it is so important to implement good QA/QC during all aspects of well purging and sampling to ensure that the most representative sample possible is ultimately submitted to a laboratory for analysis.

The first day of the class sets the stage for the next three days by covering preparation of effective multi-media sampling and analysis plans; strategies for sampling environmental media; field QA/QC; field equipment decontamination; sample handling and shipment; and documentation of environmental sampling events.

The science behind soil sampling, soil sampling methods and equipment, US EPA Method 5035,  and field sample analytical methods are covered in detail on day two, which includes a half-day field session. In this field session, students collect data for site characterization purposes, and they collect and describe soil samples and use a variety of methods to analyze samples in the field. U.S. EPA Method 5035, for field collection and preservation of soil samples for VOC analysis, is explained and demonstrated. Field analysis methods include field portable gas chromatographs, x-ray fluorescence, analyte-specific field kits, and immunoassay.

The science behind ground-water sampling, purging and sampling methodologies, sampling equipment and techniques, and sample collection and pretreatment procedures are covered in detail on day three, which includes a half-day field session. In this field session, students sample ground-water monitoring wells using electric submersible pumps and bladder pumps, learn correct procedures for sample collection, filtration and preservation, and learn traditional and low-flow purging and sampling methods (including field indicator parameter analysis) as well as no-purge sampling techniques.

On the final day of the course, surface water, sediment and waste sampling strategies, methods and equipment are covered in detail.  In the final field session, emphasis is placed on collecting samples of surface water and sediment and analyzing those samples in the field.  Students will also participate in a field exercise which will simulate waste sampling from drums and waste piles.

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