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.

  1. Go to ALA
  2. Complete the sign up form
  3. Follow the steps to activate your account
  4. 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.

Monitor Staging

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

Please provide details of any medical condition/s or disability that may affect your ability to participate in the EMSA On-ground training. Personal information will be shared only with the EMSA Training Coordinators.
Please select any preferences, allergies etc. This helps us plan the light refreshments provided 

Thank you for taking part in EMSA On-Ground Training, delivered by TERN.

We are planning to use photographs and video from the surveys to promote the project. As a participant, we ask for permission to take, use and reproduce images of you. If you agree to your image being used in this manner, please check the box above. This consent is voluntary and can be withdrawn at any time, with written notice to emsa_support@adelaide.edu.au. 

I understand that I am granting permission to the rights of my image, likeness and sound of my voice as recorded on audio or video without payment or any other consideration.  I understand that my image may be edited, copied, exhibited, published or distributed and I waive the right to inspect or approve the finished product wherein my likeness appears. Additionally, I waive any right to royalties or other compensation arising or related to the use of my image or recording.  I also understand that this material may be used in publications within an unrestricted geographic area. 

Photographic, audio or video recordings may be used for the following purposes related to TERN:

  • conference presentations
  • informational presentations
  • social media posts
  • blog posts
  • newsletter articles
  • promotional materials

By ticking the box on this release form I understand this permission signifies that photographic or video recordings of me may be electronically displayed via the Internet or in the public educational setting.

I will be consulted about the use of the photographs or video recording for any purpose other than those listed above.

There is no time limit on the validity of this release nor is there any geographic limitation on where these materials may be distributed.

This release applies to photographic, audio or video recordings collected as part of the sessions listed on this document only.

By ticking the box I acknowledge that I have completely read and fully understand the above release and agree to be bound thereby. I hereby release any and all claims against any person or organisation utilising this material.  

Submit 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.

Go to module manuals

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 workfl​ow 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.

Go to module manuals

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 workfl​ow 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.

Go to module manuals

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 workfl​ow 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.

Still have questions about EMSA training? 

Contact the helpdesk