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Intermediate3-7 days

Cave Survey Basics

Learn cave survey techniques including compass bearings, tape measurements, and map drafting for documenting cave passages.

survey teamsgrotto members

Workflow

  1. Plan Survey Loop

    2 hours

    Plan closed loop survey minimizing drift with shot list.

  3. Sketch Passages

    4 hours

    Draw left-right-up-down sketch at each station in survey book.

Tools Used

Checklist

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Planning

Preparation

Safety

Execution

Reference Materials

Cave Survey Basics StandardStandard

Standard practices and recommended approaches for cave survey basics.

Cave Survey Basics FormulaFormula

Key formulas and calculations for cave survey basics.

Cave Survey Basics DataTable

Reference table for cave survey basics.

ErrorQualityAction
<0.5%ExcellentAccept
>2%PoorReshoot

  • Permanent Stations

    Removable tape stations lost on return — use durable marks.

  • Backsight

    Skipping backsight checks compass error too late.

  • Waterproof Notes

    Wet notebook destroys day — use waterproof survey book.

Safety Notes

  • Survey in active streamway — flash flood awareness.
  • Sharp rock — gloves when placing stations.

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