One change to look for, says Grady Moore, New York District Chief, is heightened visibility and familiarity in Laboratory contacts with District and Regional offices. Moore called for visits and greater participation in meetings among NWQL staff and District offices. Dave Rickert, Chief, Office of Water Quality, said that LPAC should convey to the Laboratory a sense of what the U.S. Geological Survey needs in the way of water-quality services. At the same time, he suggested that the NWQL should use the LPAC forum to offer new methods, develop quality control, and explain ideas for new technology.
Quality comes first with cost and speed second.
Those strategies will determine appropriate costs to be charged for analytical services, and costs that should be supported by Division funds. Subcommittee membership includes representatives from NWQL and the Division. Bob Williams, NWQL Chief, briefed LPAC on the desired development of a strategic plan, as well as an annual planning process. He pointed out that a strategic plan would foster partnerships and understanding between the Laboratory and the Division. Conomos suggested not limiting the strategic planning process to NWQL senior staff but to include others with vision and leadership abilities.