In this 23rd episode, I discuss "What is a Representative Sample?"

In remediation efforts, it's important to use "representative samples" in order to get a better understanding of the remediation progress.  As the name implies, a representative sample, is a sample that represents the surrounding nearby area, such that it can be assumed that for the most part, the surrounding area should be the same if not very similar.  The purpose is to get a better understanding of the current condition, so that better decisions can be made about progressing forward.

A Representative Sample should provide an unbiased indication of current conditions.  For this reason, I suggest that more data points provides a better understanding.  I'd recommend having more data points of understanding, rather than using a composite sample, which is the combination of several samples mixed together.  Composite samples do not allow for the zooming in and identification of the hot spots that need focused upon.  I argue that composite samples are not and should not be used as Representative Samples.

A good set of Representative Samples, is the best approach for monitoring remediation progress.

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