The variables observed are recorded on CERC Form No. 32, Littoral 

 Environment Observation (LEO) form (Figure 1) . The data sheet is designed 

 for use in the IBM 1231/1232 Optical Mark Page Reader. This equipment 

 reads positional marks made by a No. 2 lead pencil on paper documents. 

 The positional marks are converted into a machine-usable form and the 

 information is then punched into cards. The present design of the LEO 

 data collection form enables all the data recorded on that form to be 

 transferred to one punch card. 



Each LEO form contains, in addition to the variables mentioned, a 

 locality code number for each site and the date and time that the LEO data 

 were collected. 



The LEO forms are forwarded to CERC on a regular basis. At CERC, 

 each form is visually scanned for omission of the locality code number and 

 date. The forms are then processed through the optical scanning machine 

 which reads the relevant marks on the forms and transfers the information 

 to punch cards. These cards, after a sorting operation to place them in 

 chronological order, are ready for computer analysis. 



6. Instrumentation 



Each site is supplied with materials and instruments required to 

 collect and record the data. 



A Dwyer Wind Meter (Figure 2) is used to measure wind speed. The 

 instrument's simplicity of construction and use ensures compatibility of 

 data between observation sites. 



An Abney Topographic Hand Level (Figure 2) is used to measure the 

 beach berm-crest elevation. This is done by using the hand level as a 

 surveying level, and sighting-in on a graduated reference pole which is 

 installed on the backshore of the beach well back of the high water line. 



The observer is provided with a 50-foot tape measure to obtain the 

 distance of the most seaward berm from the reference pole. 



To measure the slope of the foreshore, the Abney Hand Level is used 

 as an inclinometer. 



A supply of fluorescein or Rhodamine- B dye is provided for use in 

 observing and measuring the littoral current. 



To document changes in beach configurations, site observers take 

 monthly photographs . Cameras are furnished by the State to most of the 

 sites participating in the LEO program, and CERC supplies black-and-white 

 film. 



Plastic bags for collecting sand samples and envelopes for mailing 

 the LEO forms and samples to CERC are also supplied. 



