SAMPLING OF AQUATIC SEDIMENTS - DESIGN OF A DECISION-SUPPORT SYSTEM AND A CASE-STUDY

Abstract The structure of a knowledge-based decision-support system for the sampling of aquatic sediments in lakes is discussed. The system is in the implementation stage and will advise on a sampling strategy that reveals as much as possible of the pollution level of the underwater soil, based on geomorphic information and analytical results for previous samples (if available). Constraints such as the desired precision and maximum sampling costs are taken into account. A case study of Ketelmeer lake (Netherlands) illustrates the techniques and heuristics that will be used in the decision-support system.