Field Studies

What is a field study?

A field study (or field survey) is conducted when we need to collect information about the natural or built environment around a potential project site. During a field study, engineers or surveyors gather data on things like the placement of utility lines, property boundaries, vegetation, elevation, and more. This information is used to create detailed maps of the project area.

Why does Great Rivers Greenway conduct field studies?

Field studies are a crucial part of greenway projects, whether we are planning for new greenways or improving existing ones. Thoroughly studying a potential project area helps us understand what is there now and what is possible. Field studies can happen at various points throughout the planning, design, or construction of a greenway project and are used in conjunction with other engineering and design tools, as well as community feedback, to make decisions about how a project progresses.

What kind of activity should I expect?

Specialists completing field studies will be uniformed and wearing proper personal protection equipment (PPE), like construction vests or hard hats, if needed.

Depending on the equipment chosen for the work, the crew may need to setup a tripod and then move around to pick up coordinates and elevations at many points within the area. Spray paint, flags, or stakes may be used to mark locations for measurement purposes. In some cases, a drone will be used by field study teams to capture necessary data overhead.

The crew may also need to use signs, cones, or flaggers to help control traffic and ensure the safety of their team. Please respect their setup and their teammates; traffic control is used to not only protect the surveyors, but everyone else in the area as well!

How can I learn more about a specific greenway project?

To learn more about greenway projects in various stages of planning, design or construction (all with community engagement along the way), check out our Greenways in Progress page here!

Want to speak with us directly? Feel free to call us at (314) 436-7009 or send us an email at info@grgstl.org.