Last updated on Sep 12, 2024

Your fieldwork is disrupted by unexpected challenges. How do you navigate geology research setbacks?

Fieldwork, the cornerstone of geological research, often involves meticulous planning. However, you might find yourself facing unforeseen challenges such as inclement weather, equipment failure, or access issues to key sites. These setbacks can be frustrating, but they are not insurmountable. By embracing flexibility, preparedness, and a problem-solving mindset, you can navigate these obstacles effectively. Remember, the unpredictability of nature is part of what makes geology both challenging and exhilarating. It's about adapting to the environment and finding innovative ways to achieve your research goals despite the hurdles you encounter.

1 Plan B

When your primary plan is derailed, having a secondary strategy is crucial. This might involve identifying alternative study sites or adjusting your data collection methods. For instance, if a particular outcrop is inaccessible, consider using remote sensing techniques or geophysical surveys to gather data from a distance. Flexibility is key in geology; the Earth doesn't always cooperate with your schedule. By having a Plan B, you ensure that your time in the field remains productive, even when conditions aren't ideal.

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Kelley List, PG

Supervising Engineering Geologist at California Department of Water Resources
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I would even say a Plan C also. I’ve been on jobs where you’re having to shift multiple times due to unknown challenges at the site. This is where found design/build helpful. Be flexible also where you can be.

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Tracy Obarsky, P.G.

Environmental Geologist at Atlas Technical Consultants
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Fieldwork is interrupted by "unexpected challenges?" Well no kidding. Field conditions are never ideal. You have to be prepared, expect challenges, expect problems. Weather, equipment failures, varied surface or subsurface conditions. I can tell this was written by AI.

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2 Safety First

Prioritize safety above all else when faced with unexpected challenges. Geological fieldwork can lead you into remote or hazardous areas, and it's essential to be prepared for any situation. If weather conditions become dangerous or equipment malfunctions pose risks, it's better to pause your research than to compromise your well-being. Always have a communication plan and emergency supplies ready. Your research is important, but your safety is paramount.

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Kelley List, PG

Supervising Engineering Geologist at California Department of Water Resources
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If a job site is extremely remote, uncharted, and/or cell signal is not reliable: take a partner with you, identify start/stop times with estimates when you should be completed with the office, do regular check ins with your supervisor when you can, and remain vigilant.

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3 Resourceful Tools

Sometimes the tools you rely on fail at the worst possible moments. This is when resourcefulness becomes an invaluable skill. Understanding how to repair equipment or improvise with what you have on hand can save the day. For instance, if your GPS device fails, knowing how to use a traditional compass and topographic map can keep your research on track. Embrace these moments as learning opportunities that enhance your field skills.

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4 Team Dynamics

Effective communication and teamwork can make a significant difference when challenges arise. Discuss potential setbacks with your team beforehand and establish clear roles for handling different scenarios. If someone on your team has a particular skill set, such as drone piloting or first aid training, leverage that expertise when obstacles occur. A collaborative approach ensures that everyone is working towards the same goal – overcoming the setback and advancing the research.

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Kelley List, PG

Supervising Engineering Geologist at California Department of Water Resources
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I require my staff to let me know when they leave to head to, arrive, leave to head home/office, and arrive back at home/office for their field days. Having direct lines of communication when staff are in the field allows you to be available to help troubleshoot problems as they come up. Doing a thorough desktop research prior also helps to identify risks, vulnerabilities, and potential site conditions. If conditions are far worse than anticipated, it’s best to come back and regroup, bring in the correct expertise, and formulate another run.

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5 Data Integrity

Maintaining the integrity of your data is pivotal, especially when conditions are less than ideal. Be vigilant about noting any deviations from your planned methodology that might affect your results. For example, if you must collect samples in different weather conditions than expected, record this information for later analysis. Accurate record-keeping is essential for ensuring that your data remains reliable and your conclusions are sound.

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6 Reflection Time

After navigating through unexpected challenges, take time to reflect on what you've learned. Consider how you handled the situation and what strategies were most effective. Reflection allows you to develop a more resilient approach to future fieldwork. It's also an opportunity to update your fieldwork plan to include contingencies based on your recent experiences. Each challenge you overcome not only contributes to your current research but also to your growth as a geologist.

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Your fieldwork is disrupted by unexpected challenges. How do you navigate geology research setbacks?

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1 Plan B

2 Safety First

3 Resourceful Tools

4 Team Dynamics

5 Data Integrity

6 Reflection Time

Geology

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