EMSA Pre-training

Before attending EMSA Training
Step 1: Create your ALA account
Step 2: Setup your tablet
Step 3: Register for the training
Step 4: Review Pre-training Material
Create your ALA account
Login to the Monitor App requires an account with the Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) or MERIT. If you already have an ALA or MERIT account you can skip this step.
- Go to ALA
- Complete the sign up form
- Follow the steps to activate your account
- Make sure to save your details somewhere safe, you will need them during the training.

Set up your tablet
Prior to the training please ensure that you have a suitable tablet set up with the Monitor Staging app.
We recommend using the Samsung S-series released after 2020 or the Samsung Galaxy Active series. Specifically, the S6 Lite or the Active5 are reasonably priced and both have been tested for compatibility with Monitor.
1. Install Monitor
Read the Manual for using the Monitor App for steps to correctly download and install the Monitor Staging PWA.
While we refer to ‘the Monitor App’, Monitor is actually a progressive web app (PWA) that can be installed on computers and mobile devices. Watch the video for steps to correctly save the app to your tablet, or go to page 4 of the Manual for using the Monitor App
Please install the app via Google Chrome. If you do not have Google Chrome on your device you will need to install it before installing Monitor.
2. Set your Default Keyboard
Not all device keyboards contain the '-' sign, which is required for some fields in the monitor app. Watch the video to learn how to set your default keyboard.
Complete the registration
EMSA On-ground Training Participant Registration
Thank You For Registering Your Attendance At The EMSA On-ground Training
We look forward to meeting you soon. Please continue to monitor your email for any further information
In the meantime we invite you look at the
Pre-training Materials
and training details.
Review the pre-training material
Best-practice workflow
Watch the video to familiarise yourself with the best-practice use of Monitor. This is particularly important when working in the field with limited access to internet. Some key things to remember:
- Each time you use the app, log out and log back in
- Only sync if you have a stable internet connection
- Try to sync at the end of each day to avoid a backlog of syncing
- Before using your device in the field, make sure you 'prepare for offline collections'
- Check your data summary before queuing the collection, changes cannot be made after queuing
- Always practice using a module on Monitor Staging before using Monitor Production
Caching Map Tiles
Many image tiles are required to create each layer of a map. Together these can take up a considerable amount of space on your device, an may slow the app down. Therefore map tiles are not stored in Monitor and we recommend loading the necessary tiles for your area, prior to going into the field. Watch the video for more information.
Look through the Module Manuals
EMSA on-ground training will include the Plot Selection and Layout, Floristics, Cover, Plot Description and Photopoints modules. To get the most out of your training we encourage you to familiarise yourself with these modules before attending the training.
Read the 'Using the Monitor App Manual'
Download and become familiar with the 'Using the Monitor App Manual'. The document includes information about installing the app, printing voucher barcodes, connecting a GNSS device and important workflow tips.
Make sure to save a copy on your device to refer to while in the field.
Useful EMSA Terminology
EMSA - Ecological Monitoring System Australia
Project - Project name appearing MERIT and funded under the Australian Government – Natural Resource Management (NRM) program.
Project area/ Project extent area - The overall area studied as part of a MERIT project, all the plots in the project must fall within the project area. This area may consist of a single parcel of land or multiple parcels. The Project (Extent) Area cannot be entered or uploaded as multiple areas and should encompass all parcels of land relevant to your project. We suggest this area covers the entire area of your NRM region.
Plot - A specified 100 x 100 m area where data is collected Plots are generally established in locations that are homogenous areas representative of the stratified sampling units (or zones), with consistent vegetation, slope, relief and soil.
Fauna plot - A paired 100 x 100 m plot adjacent to core monitoring plot, where the vertebrate and invertebrate surveys take place
Module - Section of the Ecological Field Monitoring Protocols Manual describing specific methods to accurately measure environmental change for a specific variable/s in the Australian environment.
Protocol - The method used for monitoring and data collection. There may be one or several protocols described for a Module.
On plot - A monitoring protocol that occurs within a plot
Off plot - A monitoring protocol that does not occur within a monitoring plot
Dataset Collection - Completed data collection for a single protocol in Monitor or MERIT
Survey - The act of collecting data, following steps outlined in one of the EMSA protocols.
Monitor - EMSA data collection PWA. Monitor is intended to be used in the field for live data collection.
PWA - Progressive Web App. A web application that can be installed on a mobile device (tablet or phone) and performs like an App but has greater offline capability.
In-progress data - Data being entered into the Monitor app for a single protocol. The protocol has not yet been completed and can still be edited.
Queued dataset collection - A survey’s dataset collection that has been completed in Monitor but not yet ‘synced with the cloud’ so that it will appear in MERIT and in the BDR. The data in a queued dataset collection is complete and cannot be edited.
Synced dataset collection - A survey’s dataset collection that has been completed on Monitor and ‘synced with the cloud’ so that it is now appearing in MERIT and is on it’s way to the BDR. The data from a synced dataset collection is no longer on your device and is stored in a database before being sent to the BDR. This data is complete and cannot be edited.
Data Dump - A snapshot of the data stored in Monitor on your device. The EMSA Help Desk may send you instructions for sending a data dump to them if you’re stuck and they need to troubleshoot.
Training Details
What: On-ground training
To demonstrate key field data collection methods and techniques including app data entry, equipment use, data and sample management. The EMSA training will cover the following key Modules:
- Plot Selection and Layout
- Floristics
- Plot Description
- Cover
- Photo points
- Opportune
When: Tuesday 27th-Thursday 29th May
Training sessions will begin each day at 9am and conclude at approximately 4:30pm.
Thursday afternoon session is flexible and we understand that some participants with a long drive home may prefer to depart early. Please see a more detailed schedule below.
Where: Wellington, NSW
Please note that all attendees are expected to arrange their own accommodation and transport each day, this includes transport between the 'classroom' and field sites which will be approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Wellington.
Accommodation suggestions
- Wellington Caves (these are about 5km from wellington)
- Hermitage Hill
- Bridge Hotel
Classroom Location:
Cow & Calf Hotel
135 Lee Street, Wellington NSW
Field Address:
Glenwood
2220 Twelve Mile Road, Spicers Creek
What to bring:
EMSA will provide most equipment required for the training. Please bring the following items:
- A tablet with the Monitor Staging App installed
- Android tablets are preferred, if you are using an iOS device our team may be unable to resolve issues as Monitor is not supported for use on iOS devices
- Camp chair
- Lunch each day
- Appropriate field clothing and required personal items (hat, long sleeves, sturdy shoes, long pants (or gators))
Schedule
Tuesday 27th
Session 1: 9am -12pm
Classroom workshop
- Training overview
- EMSA background
- EMSA Modules overview
- Plot Selection
- Plot Layout (with outside demonstration)
LUNCH and TRAVEL TO FIELD SITE
Session 2: 1pm – 4:30pm
Field demonstrations
- Safety
- Plot layout
- Floristics (collection)
4:30pm – End of day
Wednesday 28th
Session 3: 9am -12pm
Classroom workshop
- Brief overview of protocols being demonstrated today
- Floristics (plus plant tissue vouchering)
- Cover
- Processing Floristics
- Best practice workflow for devices before field collection
LUNCH and TRAVEL TO FIELD SITE
Session 4: 1pm – 4:30pm
Field demonstrations
- Safety
- Plot Context
- Cover (layout and retrieve tapes)
4:30pm – End of day
Thursday 29th
Session 5: 9am -12pm
- Field demonstration
- Photopoints
- Plot Description
LUNCH and TRAVEL TO FIELD SITE
Session 6: 1pm – 4:30pm
Field demonstrations
- Content focus to be determined by participants
- Opportunity to work through fields/measurements/ questions about other modules
4:30pm – End of training
Review the pre-training material
Best-practice workflow
Watch the video to familiarise yourself with the best-practice use of Monitor. This is particularly important when working in the field with limited access to internet. Some key things to remember:
- Only sync if you have a stable internet connection
- Try to sync at the end of each day to avoid a backlog of syncing
- Before using your device in the field, make sure you 'prepare for offline collections'
- Check your data summary BEFORE queuing the collection, changes cannot be made after queuing
- Always practice using a module on Monitor Staging before using Monitor Production
Caching Map Tiles
Many image tiles are required to create each layer of a map. Together these can take up a considerable amount of space on your device, an may slow the app down. Therefore map tiles are not stored in Monitor and we recommend loading the necessary tiles for your area, prior to going into the field. Watch the video for more information.
Look through the Module Manuals
All EMSA on-ground trainings will include the Plot Selection, Floristics, Cover and Photopoints modules. To get the most out of your training we encourage you to familiarise yourself with these modules before attendings.
Read the 'Using the Monitor App Manual'
Download and become familiar with the using the Monitor App manual. The document includes information about installing the app, printing voucher barcodes, connecting a GNSS device and important workflow tips
Useful EMSA Terminology
EMSA - Ecological Monitoring System Australia
Project - Project name appearing MERIT and funded under the Australian Government – Natural Resource Management (NRM) program.
Project area/ Project extent area - The overall area studied as part of a MERIT project, all the plots in the project must fall within the project area. This area may consist of a single parcel of land or multiple parcels. The Project (Extent) Area cannot be entered or uploaded as multiple areas and should encompass all parcels of land relevant to your project. We suggest this area covers the entire area of your NRM region.
Plot - A specified 100 x 100 m area where data is collected Plots are generally established in locations that are homogenous areas representative of the stratified sampling units (or zones), with consistent vegetation, slope, relief and soil.
Fauna plot - A paired 100 x 100 m plot adjacent to core monitoring plot, where the vertebrate and invertebrate surveys take place
Module - Section of the Ecological Field Monitoring Protocols Manual describing specific methods to accurately measure environmental change for a specific variable/s in the Australian environment.
Protocol - The method used for monitoring and data collection. There may be one or several protocols described for a Module.
On plot - A monitoring protocol that occurs within a plot
Off plot - A monitoring protocol that does not occur within a monitoring plot
Dataset Collection - Completed data collection for a single protocol in Monitor or MERIT
Survey - The act of collecting data, following steps outlined in one of the EMSA protocols.
Monitor - EMSA data collection PWA. Monitor is intended to be used in the field for live data collection.
PWA - Progressive Web App. A web application that can be installed on a mobile device (tablet or phone) and performs like an App but has greater offline capability.
In-progress data - Data being entered into the Monitor app for a single protocol. The protocol has not yet been completed and can still be edited.
Queued dataset collection - A survey’s dataset collection that has been completed in Monitor but not yet ‘synced with the cloud’ so that it will appear in MERIT and in the BDR. The data in a queued dataset collection is complete and cannot be edited.
Synced dataset collection - A survey’s dataset collection that has been completed on Monitor and ‘synced with the cloud’ so that it is now appearing in MERIT and is on it’s way to the BDR. The data from a synced dataset collection is no longer on your device and is stored in a database before being sent to the BDR. This data is complete and cannot be edited.
Data Dump - A snapshot of the data stored in Monitor on your device. The EMSA Help Desk may send you instructions for sending a data dump to them if you’re stuck and they need to troubleshoot.
Review the pre-training material
Best-practice workflow
Watch the video to familiarise yourself with the best-practice use of Monitor. This is particularly important when working in the field with limited access to internet. Some key things to remember:
- Only sync if you have a stable internet connection
- Try to sync at the end of each day to avoid a backlog of syncing
- Before using your device in the field, make sure you 'prepare for offline collections'
- Check your data summary BEFORE queuing the collection, changes cannot be made after queuing
- Always practice using a module on Monitor Staging before using Monitor Production
Caching Map Tiles
Many image tiles are required to create each layer of a map. Together these can take up a considerable amount of space on your device, an may slow the app down. Therefore map tiles are not stored in Monitor and we recommend loading the necessary tiles for your area, prior to going into the field. Watch the video for more information.
Look through the Module Manuals
All EMSA on-ground trainings will include the Plot Selection, Floristics, Cover and Photopoints modules. To get the most out of your training we encourage you to familiarise yourself with these modules before attendings.
Read the 'Using the Monitor App Manual'
Download and become familiar with the using the Monitor App manual. The document includes information about installing the app, printing voucher barcodes, connecting a GNSS device and important workflow tips
Useful EMSA Terminology
EMSA - Ecological Monitoring System Australia
Project - Project name appearing MERIT and funded under the Australian Government – Natural Resource Management (NRM) program.
Project area/ Project extent area - The overall area studied as part of a MERIT project, all the plots in the project must fall within the project area. This area may consist of a single parcel of land or multiple parcels. The Project (Extent) Area cannot be entered or uploaded as multiple areas and should encompass all parcels of land relevant to your project. We suggest this area covers the entire area of your NRM region.
Plot - A specified 100 x 100 m area where data is collected Plots are generally established in locations that are homogenous areas representative of the stratified sampling units (or zones), with consistent vegetation, slope, relief and soil.
Fauna plot - A paired 100 x 100 m plot adjacent to core monitoring plot, where the vertebrate and invertebrate surveys take place
Module - Section of the Ecological Field Monitoring Protocols Manual describing specific methods to accurately measure environmental change for a specific variable/s in the Australian environment.
Protocol - The method used for monitoring and data collection. There may be one or several protocols described for a Module.
On plot - A monitoring protocol that occurs within a plot
Off plot - A monitoring protocol that does not occur within a monitoring plot
Dataset Collection - Completed data collection for a single protocol in Monitor or MERIT
Survey - The act of collecting data, following steps outlined in one of the EMSA protocols.
Monitor - EMSA data collection PWA. Monitor is intended to be used in the field for live data collection.
PWA - Progressive Web App. A web application that can be installed on a mobile device (tablet or phone) and performs like an App but has greater offline capability.
In-progress data - Data being entered into the Monitor app for a single protocol. The protocol has not yet been completed and can still be edited.
Queued dataset collection - A survey’s dataset collection that has been completed in Monitor but not yet ‘synced with the cloud’ so that it will appear in MERIT and in the BDR. The data in a queued dataset collection is complete and cannot be edited.
Synced dataset collection - A survey’s dataset collection that has been completed on Monitor and ‘synced with the cloud’ so that it is now appearing in MERIT and is on it’s way to the BDR. The data from a synced dataset collection is no longer on your device and is stored in a database before being sent to the BDR. This data is complete and cannot be edited.
Data Dump - A snapshot of the data stored in Monitor on your device. The EMSA Help Desk may send you instructions for sending a data dump to them if you’re stuck and they need to troubleshoot.