Record the location method
Keep a note of whether a position came from a device location, manual placement on a map, a supplied survey or another source. Those methods have different limitations. Do not label an approximate field position as a professionally surveyed coordinate. If the project requires a defined accuracy, agree how it will be obtained and verified before collecting data.
Check against features you can recognise
Compare the plotted tree with nearby paths, buildings, boundaries and other trees. Satellite imagery may be older than the visit, and canopy cover can obscure the trunk position. Device location can also vary with the surroundings and conditions. A pin that looks plausible at a wide zoom level may still be associated with the wrong tree.
A simple review example
Two adjacent trees are recorded as T021 and T022. Their pins overlap at the report scale. Before moving a marker for presentation, check the field notes and photographs. If the coordinates are correct but the labels are crowded, solve the display problem with a clearer scale or legend. If the positions were swapped, correct the records and note the reason; do not use a cosmetic edit to conceal a data error.
When sharing coordinates
- State the coordinate reference system or supplied format.
- Confirm latitude and longitude have not been reversed.
- Check units where projected coordinates are used.
- Retain the tree ID with each coordinate pair.
- Describe any positional uncertainty relevant to the recipient.
Review the exported map
Check the actual PDF or image the client will receive, including tree numbers, colours, legend and readability. Confirm the extent includes the intended site and that the schedule can be reconciled with the mapped records. Map background imagery and tree positions do not establish legal boundaries or replace a survey where one is required.
See the tree survey workflow and prepare a site brief that explains the map's intended use.
Prepared by Canopy.