A Fine Day for the FieldA Facilitated Discussion

Ramona Maraj

Carnivore Biologist, Environment Yukon

Developing a Fieldwork Plan Three of the most important factors in developing a fieldwork

plan are

(i) the geography of the project area

(ii) the human resources and

(iii) logistical support available for the survey

Geography of the Project Area Terrain Access Weather Season Length/Daylight Availability Satellite Coverage Human Activity Sensitive Environmental Features

Human Resources How many people and where to get them Competence, experience and qualifications Ratios of senior to junior or experienced to inexperienced

staff Group members age, competence, fitness and temperament

and the suitability of the field activity Special educational/training or medical needs of fieldworkers

Logistical Support Routes, modes of transport, and transportation requirements Fuel availability and caching Housing, camps, research stations Quality and suitability of available equipment

Other Considerations Pilot study or reconnaissance? Does your work require a permit? Does your work require an environmental assessment? Does your work require First Nations approval? Are there other researchers working in the area? The local factor – know the people in the place you work,

involve locals. (i.e., will someone shoot at your helicopter)

Safety Safety plan – identifies the hazards and proposes mitigations Safety equipment Check-in procedure and search area Emergency evacuation protocols Search and rescue Nearest hospitals or medical facilities Medical training of staff Wildlife