A growth pressure is defined as any factor affecting the microbial community and as a result, overall treatment performance within a wastewater treatment system (WWTS). To evaluate the current performance of a system and maintain adequate treatment, it is critical to monitor all of the eight growth pressures – BOD loading, pH, toxicity, aeration, retention time, nutrients, biomass, and temperature. There are several approaches to data collection pending the parameter and desired result that can provide enormous insight into the capabilities and shortcomings of a WWTS. These vary and range from permanently stationed equipment recording continuously to yearly in-depth studies. Regardless of the exact method, the information obtained is essential in requesting and making defendable business decisions that support operational and capital expenses, such as baffle installation or repair, dredging, additional aeration, nutrient optimization, and/or temperature control. This presentation will provide a broad overview of the eight growth pressures, focusing on the three parameters that having equipment placed in basins can provide a unique approach to monitoring, and data from previous studies where in-basin monitoring was used to address specific problems.