The problem of extending the storage time of water samples for fecal coliform analysis was addressed. Included in this report is a literature review of the storage problem. Twenty-eight samples were analyzed in replicate to determine the effect of 24-h storage of water samples at 40C. A new statistical approach to data analysis, coupled with the concept of practical acceptability, is presented. According to our results, many samples can successfully be stored at 4°C for 24 h.