The source/origin and biogeochemical transformations of natural organic matter(NOM) affects its structural properties and subsequent treatability in potablewater and wastewater reuse processes. Therefore, there is a constant need toevaluate tools capable of easily quantifying the sources/origins and structuralcharacteristics of NOM. Advanced characterization techniques are available thatcan more fully characterize the suite of compound classes in NOM than specificultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA), but all require extensive pretreatment,costly analysis, and advanced interpretation skills. The purpose of this paper isto propose that fluorescence spectroscopy can assist in quantifying thesources/origins and structure of NOM. Includes 16 references, table, figures.