I've now selected a total of 19 sample locations in 8 states. I will be visiting, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah and Idaho. For each of these sample locations I still need to print out geological maps and key publications but in general I have the data all scrounged together. Several of the locations are within national forests and I've been talking with them about permits. I find the inconsistency of the permitting process in each national forest amazing. Some are very organised and have me fill out very official looking forms. Others approve the work over the phone with minimal questions and will have permits available when I arrive. Seems for a "National Forest" there should be some national standards.
I've entered all the sample locations into my navigation software (I will be using Microsoft's Streets and Trips to get around) and can now plot the route and measure the distance precisely. I will cover at least 4800 miles, assuming I don't make any side trips. If you drove from 9 AM to 5 PM continuously and did not stop for science the driving would take 10 days! I think this is optimistic given the speed limitations of my truck.
I'm off to field school for the next week and a half. When I get back there will be a flurry of activity getting the final preparations together and then I'm off.
