At the earlier stages of its foundation, EPCP/ATH carried out sampling at 74 sites covering the Attica Peninsula and the Islands of Aegina and Salamis (Central Greece). Gradually, the number of sampling sites was increased to 715 and extended to several other Greek coasts.

Bacteria taxonomic abundance in water bodies; Bacteria taxonomy-related ash-free dry weight biomass in sediment; Dissolved oxygen parameters in the water column; Temperature of the water column

The sampling programme for the quality control of coastal waters includes densely populated areas, summer resorts and, in addition, sea areas where extensive shipping traffic, discharges of waste water and other pollution inputs take place. The sampling stations have been classified according to use in four types (A,B,C,D). Between 1974-1983, sampling was carried out at 74 sites (beaches) covering coastal areas of Attica (Saronikos and S. Euboikos Gulfs). Six from these sites have been selected for the WHO/UNEP, MED-POL programme. Since 1985, the sampling programme was gradually extended to cover 715 beaches. Sampling takes place at one or more sites (usually 1-5) of each of the above beaches, on an annual or seasonal basis, and for some beaches, on a monthly basis. The programme is funded by the Greek Government, and since 1991 it is also supported by CEC.

Environmental Pollution Control Project, Athens, Microbiological Laboratory
Ministry of Environment, Physical Planning and Public Works, 147 Patission Str.
Athens

112 51
Greece