To set up specific objectives and design the technical monitoring program, knowledge on the natural environmental setting is needed, either based on existing knowledge or if necessary obtained through in situ pilot studies. The natural condition defines the suitable parameters and operational standards to be employed. Without efficient dissemination of information, the mission of monitoring program will not be fulfilled. Therefore an important part of a master plan is also to establish an environmental information system explicit defining all elements from data handling and data analysis to reporting and mediation of information to decision-makers, technical staff and the public. Not part of a monitoring master plan per se but still very important to ensure adequate environmental quality and conservation of natural resources is enforcement.
Enforcement often involves control of pollution loads and emission monitoring.
Tools used in enforcement is e.g. permit systems, polluter pay systems and control visits. DHI Water and Environment offers services and courses considering whole master plans or parts of the monitoring activities, as e.g. capacity building , legislational and institutional strengthening, technical performance of monitoring and laboratory analysis , modelling , data handling and analysis , as well as reporting and presentation of information .