Are there water hazards such as currents, drop-offs, slippery rocks or deep mud?

Are there steep or slippery slopes, or sharp objects such as barbed wire, broken glass or pointed stumps (from beaver activity)?

Is the water so polluted that it poses a health threat for children? Waterproof gloves and goggles may be necessary when sampling. Nets for catching aquatic invertebrates and water-sampling bottles may be attached to long poles to avoid contacting the water.

Legal Responsibilities

You, as the leader, are expected to exercise a standard of care for the participants that is expected of a reasonable person having any special knowledge or qualifications possessed by the person. Negligence is the failure to do something that should have been done or doing something improperly.

For schools, church groups or other interest groups, a permission form signed by parents is important. The form should inform parents and participants of any potential risks involved in the field trip. Ensure that parents know the location and the purpose of the monitoring program. Perhaps some of them would like to come along and help.

Find out what insurance policy covers your field trip.

Get permission from the landowner to use his or her land for a monitoring site before going on to private property.