Wide variations in constituent and parameter concentrations have been observed in wastewaters resulting from different oil shale extraction processes. Extreme difficulties in preservation, analysis and treatment of these fluids have been noted. As the Department of Energy's lead center for synfuel activity, the Laramie Energy Technology Center (LETC) has been charged with developing protocols for each of these areas. This paper presents the results of several years'research conducted by LETC and its contractors and by the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Arizona into proper procedures necessary to collect, store, analyze and treat representative samples of oil shale process waters. Data are presented which describe five waters collected from true and modified in situ retorts as well as surface facilities. Recommended preservations and analysis techniques are presented as are treatment methods and approaches found to description of on-going and planned research and LETC.