What happens if the conditions for a perc test are not properly met?

When the conditions for a perc test are not properly met, the validity and reliability of the measurements taken are compromised. This can result in incorrect assessments of the soil's permeability, which is critical for determining how well the soil can handle water drainage, especially for septic systems or other applications that rely on accurate perc test results.

If the test conditions are not appropriate—whether due to improper soil saturation, weather conditions, timing of the test, or other environmental factors—the data collected may not accurately represent the soil's characteristics. Consequently, the results could lead to misinformed decisions regarding land use or system design. In such cases, the most prudent action is to discard the measurements, as trusting them could result in significant issues related to infrastructure or environmental impact.

Thus, the implication that measurements may need to be discarded highlights the importance of following proper testing protocols to ensure accurate and reliable data, which is essential for effective soil evaluation and management.