Section outline

    • Introduction

      Fieldwork needs to be done in the most efficient way. Often fieldwork is costly, due to logistics and staff time. Also the cost of going back when you have missed crucial data is high and should be avoided. A proper pre-fieldwork desk study on the area and creating a planning for the field campaign can reduce the risk of additional fieldwork cost.

      Desk study

      Some recommendations:

      1. Search for literature and maps on the research topic and the study area. If they are in digital format, organise the documents on a disk that you can bring to the field. Consider digitizing hardcopies to reduce the weight of carying materials to the field.
      2. Analyse the GIS data that is available. Examples for hydrological studies:
        • Analyse the Digital Elevation Model with profiles.
        • Create slope and aspect maps.
        • Calculate the Topographic Wetness Index or response time of the catchment.
        • Calculate geomorphological parameters from the DEM.
        • Use remote sensing analysis if images are available (NDVI, land cover classification).
        • Use the 3D view to visualise your study are from different perspectives.
        • Study cross sections and transects

      In this video you learn more about DEM analysis:

      You can use the tutorials that are available here.

      Planning

      Gather as much information about the field logistics as possible:
      • Where is your base camp?
      • How far is it from the study area?
      • Do you have team or are you alone?
      • Is there a driver?
      • Are the costs of the logistics clear?
      • Do you have the contact information of the driver and team?
      • What are working hours? National holidays? Does the fieldwork continue in the weekend?
      • When is the rainy season?
      • What are the road conditions?
      • Is all equipment available?
      • ...

      Based on the information, make a schedule for each fieldwork day. Which part of the study area are you going to study each day? Which routes will be used? What equipment is needed? Etc.

      Also make a list of field equipment, incl. spare batteries, cables, etc. Make sure you have all the user manuals of devices, preferably in digital format.

      If you work in a team it is important to clarify roles and tasks. Optimize the time in the field, but also take care of the health and safety of yourself and your team.