The EPA undertakes regular monitoring and assessment of the status and trends of the nation's ecological resources. Monitoring is conducted through surveys, sampling and other direct measurements, as well as models. EPA strives to gather both small and large scale data in a holistic approach that studies the interrelation of all media and the transport of pollutants from region to region. The data gathered through monitoring is used to determine the overall health of the nation's environment, to gauge the effects of pollution releases and to help set new environmental guidelines and standards.
Recommended EPA Web pages |