…not technically equipment, but these are often paired with our GPS units. Many users find it easier to download the relevant apps to their own device and use that for data collection. The SAL also has a limited number of iPads available for short term use for data collection.

We are happy to assist folks in understanding what combination of apps and tools to use. We generally recommend the following as guiding principles:

1. If you are hoping to crowd source spatial information via a shareable form in areas with consistent internet connection and do not want users to login or download additional apps, we recommend Survey123.
2. If your work requires you to use a high accuracy GNSS/GPS receiver with a potential need to collect data where internet connection is not present or may be spotty, we recommend FieldMaps.

Both Survey123 and FieldMaps integrate nicely in the ArcGIS Online ecosystem with the biggest difference between the two being the data intake process.

We maintain a fleet of drones that can be used for mapping, cinematography, and inspection purposes. Capturing footage in stunning 4K quality and with the ability to obtain spatially accurate, high resolution images, we can certainly find a drone that fits your needs! If you’re interested in incorporating drones in your teaching or research, please contact Kala’i, and review our Drone Code of Ethics, and the campus UAS policy.

Our major partners in the drone space include the Geosciences, Biology, Environmental Science and Policy, the Imaging Center, the Botanic Garden, and Facilities Operations. Some of our work can be found in the ArcGIS Online Collection or by searching “drone” on this website.  

We maintain one of the National Geodetic Survey’s Continuously Operation Reference Stations (CORS) – HAMP. Here’s the direct data link, and please contact Kala’i for information on how to access the RTK differential stream.

Alternatively, anyone can request a free Massachusetts CORS account to access the statewide network. Detailed instructions on how to do so can be found here.

The SAL currently maintains the Outdoor Support Equipment Library. Thanks to the excellent work of Milla Wenick ’25, Luce Ward, and the Geoscience Department, we’ve identified and stocked items to make outdoor trips more comfortable. We are especially grateful to CEEDS for funding Milla’s STRIDE project and helping gather the equipment.

With chairs, stools, neck fans, gaiters, and other pieces of equipment available, we hope to help make outdoor class trips more comfortable, inclusive, and enjoyable. A full list of the equipment is available here.

Check out the Equipment Request Form to learn more and start borrowing items. The request form is also available at https://bit.ly/SmithOSEL or via QR code on the door to Sabin Reed 130.