This EPA guide describes many field methods and procedures that can be used for: (1) preliminary site reconnaissance, (2) detailed site and contaminant characterization/sampling for transport/fate modeling and risk assessment, and (3) remediation selection and design. All methods and procedures described in this guide are simple and inexpensive. When used early in site reconnaissance, site characterization, or remediation projects, the methods in the guide may reduce project costs by providing a basis for more efficient application of more complex and expensive field methods, when they are needed. Includes 10 forms, 17 tables, and 8 figures.