Image credit: South Carolina Geological Survey (SCGS)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We are building a Frequently Asked Questions section to support new and experienced practitioners. We’re continuously updating this section, so if you have a question you’d like to see answered, contact us and let us know! Below are some key topics based on community feedback and common inquiries
Logistics: Site Selection & Accessibility
Why does site accessibility matter?
- Sites that are easy to access and require less travel time are more likely to be monitored regularly. For example, a site accessible by car is much easier to monitor than one requiring a long boat ride or a strenuous hike.
What should I avoid when siting a station?
- Avoid locations that require a long hike (e.g. 2+ miles) or involve extended boat travel. Shorter, simpler access routes significantly improve the likelihood of consistent data collection.
Station Installation
How long does it take to install a station?
- Installation of a single rSET and its support piers typically takes about 2 hours with a crew of 3-4 people (not including travel time).
Can multiple stations be installed in a day?
- Yes, if the stations are close together and at least one person is experienced, a 3-4 person team can install up to three stations in a full 8-10 hours workday.
Data collection
How long does it take to collect data at one site?
- Around 1 hour per site, excluding travel time.
How many SETs can one person read in a day?
- An experienced reader can typically read one SET every 30 minutes. Reading more than six in a single day is discouraged, as fatigue can impact data quality.
Cost Estimates
How much does a station cost?
- Budget around $2,500-$3,000 per SET station, including materials and installation equipment (excluding labor and travel).
What are the cost variables?
- Equipment availability (new vs. existing)
- Steel prices (e.g. ~$52.00 per rod)
- Shipping and other materials (PVC, receivers, concrete, platforms)
Equipment & Vendors
Where can I get installation equipment?
- Nolan’s Machine Shop is a trusted vendor. Visit: Nolan’s Machine Shop | SET Community of Practice Resources