Installing Shallow Benchmarks:

This page provides detailed instructions for installing shallow benchmarks for use with the RSET. Note: We have a new design of the Shallow SET benchmark which uses the same receiver design as the deep ROD benchmark.

Blackwater NWR, MD USA (Note: new design)

Everglades NP, FL USA (older design)

a) Build a platform.
b) Install the 4 legs of the shallow benchmark.
c) Secure platform and attach the Collar (if necessary).
d) Take your baseline SET reading.
e) Lay out your Marker Horizons (optional).

Below are detailed instructions:

1) Rod SET - the instrument - New design includes, the SET, pins, an insert collar and carrying case.

2) Collars - These are custom built out of stainless steel (Optional). You do not need these if you are using the "receiver" design.

3) Shallow SET platform - Custom built aluminum platform with 4 legs.

4) 3" Aluminum pipe - 4 pieces, length will depend on the depth of installation.

5) Stainless Steel Self tapping screws - 3/4" hex head.

6) Marker Horizon - We use Feldspar or sand. Need a mask for feldspar!

7) ½" pvc pipe - for marking the boundaries of the feldspar plots.

8) Helps to have a cordless drill and saw.

A) Step 1 - Build the platform:

Click here for a details on platform construction

B) Step 2 - Installing the Shallow benchmark:

1) Determine how deep the 4 legs need to go into the ground. We have typically installed them from 35-50 cm.

2) Cut the 4 legs out of the 3" aluminum pipe. You will need excess length for installing the legs. For example, say you want the legs to go into the ground 35 cm. The Shallow SET platform needs to be off of the ground about 20-30 cm (We try to keep it above high water). You will also need some extra to grab onto while installing, so for this example, we would end up cutting the pipes about 90-100 cm in length (~3 feet).

In addition, we drill a 3/8" hole in the top of each aluminum pipe. Into the hole we slide a 3/8" steel rod (~18" long). This is used as a handle to drive and twist the pipe into the ground. It makes installation a lot easier than just grabbing the pipe.

3) Lay the Shallow Platform on the marsh surface. It will serve as a guide for properly placing the legs.

Installing the legs

4) Install the 4 legs through the supports on the Shallow Platform. Push them into the ground the specified distance.

5) Slide the platform up to a suitable height. Try to level the platform as much as possible.

C) Step 3 - Secure the platform

6) Secure the supports on the Shallow Platform to the 4 legs. We use a cordless drill and stainless steel self-tapping screws (hex head). Once the platform is secured in place, you can cut the excess pipe from the platform (this is optional).

New design Shallow Benchmark

Older design shallow benchmark

OPTIONAL: If you are using the older design, Install the Collar for the ROD SET. You will need an allen wrench to secure the collar to the platform. Use Loc-Tite™ 262 threadlocker to permanently fix the threads of the set screws. Be aware of the directions the RSET will occupy prior to securing the collar in place.

7) You are finished.

D) Step 4 - Take your baseline SET reading.

Click here for details on how to take the first readings.

E) Step 5 - Lay out your Marker Horizon (optional)

Click here for instructions on how to establish the marker horizons.