96 collector's manual 



In addition to the written labels that should always be en- 

 closed in wrapped packages, it is desirable to keep a notebook 

 in which the data are duplicated under the proper number with 

 supplemental information. With jacketed specimens, for obvious 

 reasons, the data concerning them is entered in a notebook and 

 should always include the exact map locality, range, township., 

 and section. Be sure to number all specimens. If working in an 

 unsurveyed area, indicate the locality in relation to some 

 prominent local landmark or stream. Note the formation and 

 position in the geological section, name of collector, and date 

 of collection. A detailed statement of the observed parts of 

 the skeleton present in the block, and any other observations 

 that will be of assistance to the preparator in the laboratory 

 are useful. Include reference to field photographs made of the 

 specimen. Field notes should be written on the spot while the 

 information is freshly in mind. 



Small shipments of wrapped materials may be packed in light 

 wooden boxes or heavy cartons. Heavy specimens require strong 

 wooden boxes made specially for them. Wrapped specimens 

 should be packed tightly so that they will not settle and shift 

 about during shipment. Unless separated by strong partitions 

 heavy specimens should not be placed in the same box with 

 fragile materials. Specimens may be packed in hay, straw, ex- 

 celsior, crumpled newspaper, or even leaves or small twigs and 

 brushwood, if nothing better is available. Press the packing 

 materials down firmly between and around the individual blocks. 

 A tamping stick in the form of a narrow piece of board will be 

 found useful in forcing the hay or straw in tight. Nail on the 

 top. one board at a time, and cram the packing material in 



