The management of cyanide bearing wastes in the environment is a major concern of both US EPA and industry. The measurement of cyanide forms in these wastes cannot be accomplished using methodology currently approved by EPA. This paper discusses cyanide measurements in terms of environmental significance with regard to decision making criteria. The recommendation is made to substitute a Weak Acid Dissociable method for the amenable cyanide by difference technology currently approved as SW846 Method 9010.