The purpose of this project was to establish the basic groundwork for country participation in a global fresh water monitoring project sponsored by UNEP/UNESCO/WHO/WMO. The project complements the existing global air quality monitoring project in providing an earth watch network under the Global Environmental Monitoring System (GEMS). Visits were made to seven participating countries during the period 15 September to 28 November 1977 to: (a) Provide expert advice by reviewing present water quality monitoring programs in selected member countries; (b) assist in establishing programs in conformity with the GEMS project, covering the following elements: (1) Site selection, water quality sampling and hydrological guaging, (2) parameters for monitoring, (3) analytical methods, including laboratory quality assurance, (4) water quality data handling systems; (c) assist in preparing national cooperative project structures, based on the above.