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Step 2: Field Sampling The second step in your environmental project is to collect field samples and make the observations you need to answer your research question. Depending on the nature of your research project, you will most likely collect your field data on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay or its tributaries, or at adjacent terrestrial locations. A. Training Session Before your research cruise, you will be required to visit SERC for a training session to learn about the equipment and procedures you will use for the field sampling. After your proposal is accepted by SERC, the coordinator will work with you to schedule a date and time. To prepare yourself for this training day and the field sampling, you can use this website to learn more about the equipment on each vessel and the typical procedures for research cruises studying plankton, land use vs. water quality, benthic organisms, fish biodiversity, crabs, and on-shore projects. On the day itself, dress for the weather--it can be very chilly on the boat or near the water--and bring a notebook and pencil. B. Understanding Data Quality Assurance When you collect samples and data in the field, you will learn and use standard procedures for monitoring aquatic environments. This is important because this way the data you collect is comparable with data collected by people before and after you, and thus can be used by other researchers and students to, for example, study long-term trends. Following these standard procedures is called quality assurance. The STAR program uses the methods and procedures described in the EPA manual Volunteer Estuary Monitoring, a Methods Manual. At your training session you will discuss these methods and procedures with the STAR coordinator.
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