Special studies focus on questions not addressed by core or regional monitoring. Such questions usually relate to effluent quality, discharge impacts, ocean processes, or method development. Special studies are ad hoc, and cannot be anticipated in advance for incorporation in the permit. Consequently, each year the Sanitation Districts consult with Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board staff on the need for Special Studies in the following year and develop study proposals for those questions of interest.

Proposals are subject to public comment, and approved by the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. Final reports and proposals for completed and ongoing Special Studies, respectively, are available at the Reports webpage.