Newly Adopted Rules

Credible Data Program (OAC 3745-4)

The rules were adopted on June 30, 2011 and become effective on July 29, 2011.

Background

The credible data program classifies surface water monitoring performed by watershed groups, state agencies, schools, local volunteers and other organizations. Ohio EPA uses the data submitted under the program in ways prescribed by State law.

In 2006, Ohio EPA adopted rules that establish criteria for three levels of credible data related to surface water monitoring and assessment. The rules also: define training and experience requirements for qualified data collectors (QDCs); describe sampling protocols and field methods to ensure that the data collection and interpretation are reproducible, scientifically defensible and free from pre-conceived bias; and require Ohio EPA to establish and maintain a computerized database of all credible water quality data submitted to the Agency.

Section 119.032 of the Ohio Revised Code requires Ohio EPA to review its rules every five years to determine whether they should be changed. The Agency has reviewed the credible data rules and has identified needed changes.

For additional information about Ohio EPA's credible data program, visit the Ohio Credible Data Program web page.

Available documents

• Public notice [PDF 45K]
• Response to comments on the April 19, 2011 proposed rules [PDF 10K]

Adopted Rules
Text to be deleted is struck out; new text is underlined.

• 3745-4-01 Purpose and applicability [PDF 18K]
• 3745-4-02 Definitions [PDF 16K]
• 3745-4-03 Qualified data collectors [PDF 68K]
• 3745-4-04 Level 1 data requirements and reporting [PDF 14K]
  • Appendix A. Some examples of acceptable analytical methods for level 1 and level 2 credible data [PDF 39K]
• 3745-4-05 Level 2 data requirements and reporting [PDF 16K]
  • Appendix A. Guidelines for the preparation of level 2 project study plans [PDF 12K]
  • Appendix B. Guidelines for laboratory quality assurance plans [PDF 13K]
  • Appendix C. Some examples of acceptable analytical methods for level 1 and level 2 credible data [PDF 39K]
• 3745-4-06 Level 3 data requirements and reporting [PDF 54K]
  • Appendix A. Guidelines for the preparation of level 3 project study plans [PDF 17K]
  • Appendix B. Guidelines for laboratory quality assurance plans [PDF 14K] 

April 19, 2011 proposed rules

For additional information, contact:

Jeff Reynolds
Ohio EPA
Division of Surface Water
P.O. Box 1049
Columbus, Ohio 43216-1049
E-mail: jeff.reynolds@epa.state.oh.us
Phone: (614) 644-3635

* Adobe Acrobat Reader is required to view the [PDF] publications. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader, click here to download it for free.