Database Comparability
The SWAMP data management strategy is built on the foundation that ambient monitoring data and information should be available to all stakeholders in a timely manner. SWAMP’s goal has subsequently been tailored to ensure that SWAMP data are stored in and readily accessible from a SWAMP database, which ensures both the comparability and quality of housed data, so that it can be used effectively in assessing the quality of waters within the state of California. Where possible, data are made comparable by sharing common lookup values and business rules and by following documented data management procedures available on this website.
To be SWAMP-comparable, the requirements in the SWAMP Database Management Team (DMT) document The Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Data Management Plan, as defined by the California State Board, must be met. The SWAMP DMT has established this document to describe business rules as well as field sampling guides, data formats, and data management processes that are helpful in collecting and sharing SWAMP-comparable data.
There are two versions of the SWAMP database; v2.2 and v2.5. In May 2008, SWAMP switched from using the v2.2 to the newer v2.5 database. The SWAMP v2.2 database held only Water Quality Chemistry and Toxicity data. The newer SWAMP v2.5 database holds Water Quality Chemistry and Toxicity data as well as Tissue, Benthic, and Bioassessment data. Each version has its own unique set of associated documents and business rules. Click on the appropriate link below for templates and documentation on how to be comparable with each specific version of the SWAMP database.
Please direct any questions including which version of the database you are required to use and to whom you must submit your data to, to the contract administrator or appropriate Regional Water Quality Control Board grant coordinator listed in the RWQCBS Directory.