The water resource inventory involves identifying the location of streams, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater.

The water chemistry inventory involves the collection of primary characteristics such as: alkalinity, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, rapid bioassessment baseline, temperature, and flow. Other secondary characteristics may include: toxic elements, clarity/turbidity, nitrate/nitrogen, phosphate/phosphorus, chlorophyll, sulfates, and bacteria. These secondary measurements are determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the water body.

The Southwest Alaska Network is currently determining which water bodies should be monitored. A series of expert workshops have been held. In addition, a few pilot projects are being done to best characterize the watersheds.