Once the collected organisms have been transferred to a surface where they can be clearly observed (plastic box, paper plate, or the upper clean portion of the seine), they are grouped and identified, and the information entered on the Stream Quality Assessment Form.
When the sample analysis has been made as to the kinds and approximate numbers of macroinvertebrates, a stream quality assessment is made in accordance with the procedures listed next. If the stream quality rating is "excellent", "good", or "fair", no additional sampling is required. On the other hand, should the stream quality rating fall in the "poor" classification, another series of collections should be made. If the stream quality rating again indicates "poor" quality conditions, the action procedure can be employed, in an attempt to locate the pollution source.