Data Collection Preparation and Safety
Group Projects
During training and for several outings after the initial training, we suggest that projects be carried out in groups with designated leaders supervising data collection. For small group outings, you will need at least one field kit (GPS unit, digital camera, and other resources). Only one GPS and camera is needed per group outing. One person from each group should be in charge of entering the data into the web-based data form after returning from the field. The data record should include the names of all participants of the group.
Individual Projects
Volunteers may choose after training to work individually either at assigned sites or on personal hiking/camping/birding outings. Volunteers choosing this method should still have a companion with them in the field for safety.
Local Networks
Stakeholders can form a network of local partners for invasive species prevention, monitoring, control, and eradication. Monitoring sites may be chosen based on recommendations and requests from these partners. In some cases, an organization may request help with early detection in previously unmonitored areas or in areas which have already been treated to determine eradication success. The goal should be to prioritize target areas that are most in need of monitoring. It is important to be aware of the rules regarding public vs. private property and various agency requirements for data collection.
Field Safety
Due to the field-oriented nature of the data collection, your work will present you with the inherent physical risks posed by walking in a natural environment while getting to field sites and collecting data. We recommend you follow these suggested safety precautions:
- Avoid walking through areas where you cannot see your feet. Thick vegetation may hide venomous animals or uneven terrain from view. Always be aware of your surroundings.
- If searching for invasive species patches from a vehicle, always go in teams. Vehicle drivers should pay attention to the road. Passengers can look for target species.
- When surveying on roadsides, pull vehicles well off the road, taking care to park on a firm surface. Be aware of passing traffic and stay clear of traffic lanes while collecting data.
- Bring a cell phone (but be aware that many remote areas are out of service range), and carry a topographic map or trails map of the area in which you are hiking.
- Always hike with at least one partner and inform someone at home, a neighbor or friend of where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Bring sufficient water and sun protection.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
- If you have known allergies or other medical conditions that might require you to take medications in the field, then bring your medications with you.
- Check the weather before you head to the field site. It is dangerous to work in adverse weather conditions such as thunder and lightning storms or storms which may produce flash floods.
A well-equipped field kit should include the following:
- Backpack
- Camera
- Camera memory card
- Extra batteries
- GPS Unit
- Clipboard
- Blank data sheets
- Maps
- Seed removal brush
- EDDMapS handbook
- First Aid kit
- Pencils/sharpie pens
- Species ID cards
