NACD Survey Workshop – 2003
Field Report – March 8

On the 8^th of March, at 9:00 AM, the initial meeting of the NACD Exploration & Survey Committee convened for breakfast. Committee Members discussed the 2003 plan of attack, and much input was given on the overall direction of the group. Specific tasks were identified, and specific individuals volunteered for those tasks. Some of the discussions regarded; Landowner relations, and a liaison for that. The current map/library inventory, of which Angela Reim showed strong interest. New software technology, and 3D mapping abilities. Developing standards outlines for surveying underwater caves, and a host of other issues. The meeting was upbeat, and very positive.

The workshop then commenced at the Peacock III area, at 11:00 AM. In attendance were:

 Topics covered were:

• Maps, grades, and accuracy’s
• Motivations for surveying underwater caves
• References and guides for surveying underwater caves
• Tools need and how to carry it all
• Actual survey circuits, both with tape and counting knots
• Error introduction / and how to avoid basic pitfalls
• Data collection and input
• Line plots / correcting data
• Drawing outer limits and features
• Drawing programs/ file formats
• Copyrights and publishing maps

The workshop ended around 3:00 PM, and everyone got a chance to try his or her hand at an actual survey of a guideline. It was very interesting for everyone to see the different outcomes, and errors introduced through methods such as counting knots.

The entire workshop was very informative, upbeat and positive. Everyone came away with a heightened knowledge in regards to surveying underwater caves, which was the entire goal of the workshop.

WORKSHOP IMAGES

NEXT SURVEY WORKSHOP:             September 20, 2003

James Hurley
Chairperson – NACD Exploration & Survey