Geological fieldwork is a critical aspect of geological research and exploration that involves a range of activities such as mapping rock formations and structures, collecting rock samples for laboratory analysis, and measuring the orientation and alignment of rocks. It provides valuable direct observations and data that cannot be obtained through remote sensing or laboratory analysis alone and also offers opportunities for collaboration and networking within the scientific community.
When preparing for geological fieldwork, it’s essential to have the right personal items to ensure your safety and comfort in the field. The following checklist provides a comprehensive list of personal items that you should carry:
Raincoat/ Umbrella; Having both helps for light showers when rain doesn’t disturb the work. Wearing a raincoat and carrying an umbrella for covering the field diary.
Footwear: full ankle shoes designed for trekking are recommended to prevent leg twisting. Quality sock pairs in adequate quantities and slippers for wearing on camp.
Field clothes: T-shirts, shirts, trousers, vests, and underwear. Thick Plush or Down Jacket for winter with additional thin windshield for daytime. Carrying a wind-cheater on every season is helpful. Waterproof jackets would be ideal if occasional rainfall is expected (as in pre-monsoon). Thermal wear for winters and thin towels.
Personal Care: Sunglasses, Sunscreen cream moisturizer, lip balm, hair oil, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, bathing soap/ shower gel, soaps/ surfs for washing clothes
Camping: Sleeping bag, Inner Liner, Mattress, Tents (complete sets)
Equipment: Torchlight, Pocket KnifeHam
Geological equipment: Geological hammer, Brunton Compass, Hand Lens (10x), GPS, Dilute HCl acid, Battery for GPS, Camera
Lighter/Matches
Official Letters, Travel Order, Identity Cards, Visiting Card
Stationeries: Diary, Graph paper, Color PencilPencils, Ball pen, Eraser, Sharpener, ScaleProtractor
Maps and Reports: Topo Maps, Old Reports, and Old geological maps of the area or the surrounding area
Electrical Equipment: Mobile Chargers, Multi plugLaptop, Solar Light, Solar Chargers, Power Banks
Medicines: Common Medicines (Paracetamol, Gastric Medicine, Vicks, Moov, Ointments, Bandage, Handiplast), Personal Medicines
Food and Beverages: Chocolates, Snacks, Dry fruits, Tea/Coffee
The above list is generated based on the 50 days of geological fieldwork in the Rolpa district. If you feel something is missing and the checklist needs to be updated, please comment.
