Getting started in the field. Quick checklist before going out to do actual field work: - understanding which materials you would like to use and how they work - review of all safety matters and regulations - acceptable weather conditions The strategy for mapping a particular site will depend on the area of interest. How large is the area? What potential hazards are present, if any? At Western Carolina University, the student mappers covered the large area of the university by flying 3 separate times in spatially distributed locations.