Standard Guide for Sampling Fluvial Sediment in Motion

1.1 This guide covers the equipment and basic procedures for sampling to determine discharge of sediment transported by moving liquids. Equipment and procedures were originally developed to sample mineral sediments transported by rivers but they are applicable to sampling a variety of sediments transported in open channels or closed conduits. Procedures do not apply to sediments transported by flotation.

1.2 This guide does not pertain directly to sampling to determine nondischarge-weighted concentrations, which in special instances are of interest. However, much of the descriptive information on sampler requirements and sediment transport phenomena is applicable in sampling for these concentrations, and 9.2.8 and 13.1.3 briefly specify suitable equipment. Additional information on this subject will be added in the future.

1.3 The cited references are not compiled as standards; however they do contain information that helps ensure standard design of equipment and procedures.

1.4 Information given in this guide on sampling to determine bedload discharge is solely descriptive because no specific sampling equipment or procedures are presently accepted as representative of the state-of-the-art. As this situation changes, details will be added to this guide.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 12.