Using the Field Journal from the Grinnell System

The Grinnell System field journal has helped me to be just a bit more scientific in my nature journaling. I stumbled upon the Grinnell Field Journal system. It's the method professional naturalist, ecologists, and field researchers use. The method consists of several parts a field notebook, a journal, species account and catalog.

This system is for the hard-core or serious naturalist.

A field journal is the type record that professional naturalists and biologist use.

It is where you write out your field experiences and observations. The entries are written in complete sentences and narrate what was observed.It is based on notes taken in the field notebook. It usually covers one calendar year.

It is ideally written in the afternoon or evening of the observation. Don't let too much time past (even 24 hours) before writing. Memories fade very quickly.

It includes information gathered based on the observation checklist and what you observed. Also how you did something, such as finding tracks and signs, where you looked for plants and animals.

Each journal is set up in the general Grinnell System format.Write on only one side of the paper. Usually the right side. Thisleaves the left side for maps, photos, sketches that complement what is written on the right page. If you are left handed you can reverse this.

From Field Journal Retrun to Grinnell System