The survey portion of the course lasted four days and covered survey basics, tools and field techniques. Survey basics examined if we could find all locust infestations in the field, why surveys are made, planning surveys (when, who, where) and carrying out surveys (how, reporting). Survey tools covered maps, compass, GPS and forms, and trainees practiced using each tool. At the end of the session, trainee groups made surveys in a traditional Desert Locust breeding area where several mock bands had been distributed. This gave participants a chance to practice the field techniques which they had learned during the previous days. Some of the field exercises required substantial preparation in advance, such as making 100 patches of hopper groups.