Handbook of Sea-Level ResearchPre-fieldwork surveys

Using maps, imagery, tidal measurements, and other historical data to assess the geomorphology of a study area prior to fieldwork helps select optimal sites, identify the most effective field methods to test research hypotheses, highlight the primary geomorphic processes, and may provide preliminary estimates of sea-level change. Here, I review the common types of data useful for pre-fieldwork surveys in sea-level research and discuss the many benefits of assessing the geomorphology of a site in advance of fieldwork. I also review briefly some case studies where historical data led to new directions in research and a scientific breakthrough.