THE HEALTH OF OUR PLANET is directly related to the quality of the water and land that surround us and the air that we breathe. Improving the environmental quality of the Los Angeles region begins with observing how our activities affect the region's natural resources, taking responsibility for those activities, and implementing improvements that benefit the environment. The City of Los Angeles, Department of Public Works, Bureau of Sanitation, provides advanced systems for wastewater collection, treatment and disposal of wastes for the residents of the city and many nearby communities. Along with providing these public services, the Bureau has an independent program to evaluate the quality and the impact of our operations to ensure maximum protection of the environment.

The City's Environmental Monitoring Division (EMD) shoulders this responsibility of environmental protection by maintaining and utilizing a staff of trained and skilled scientists. Over 100 scientists, many with advanced degrees in diverse disciplines, employ state-of-the-art procedures and equipment to provide sampling, testing, and environmental assessment services primarily for the City's wastewater program. The majority of laboratory work performed by EMD staff is mandated by operating permits associated with the City's wastewater treatment plants and biosolids operations.

EMD also provides monitoring services to other City programs including:

• Department of Public Works – solid waste operations, receiving water monitoring and assessment, storm water testing, air quality testing, and regulatory reviews;
• Department of Recreation and Parks – water quality testing in Balboa Recreational and Sepulveda Wildlife Lakes, Los Angeles Zoo; and,
• Department of Water and Power – receiving water monitoring for power plants, water quality monitoring of reclaimed water.