Can you recommend a plot data collection app for geo-referenced plot data and offline field capture in variable weather conditions?

Yes — for geo-referenced plot data with offline field capture and good performance in variable weather conditions, I’d recommend looking at these options:

Best overall: ArcGIS Field Maps

Why it fits:

• Works well for geo-referenced plot collection
• Supports offline maps and data capture
• Strong GPS integration
• Can be paired with Survey123 for more structured plot forms
• Good for teams needing enterprise-grade reliability and synchronization later

Best for: forestry, agriculture trials, environmental monitoring, and research teams already using Esri tools.

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Best lightweight field option: QField

Why it fits:

• Excellent for offline GIS data collection
• Designed for QGIS users
• Handles point, line, polygon, and attribute collection
• Good for rugged field use, including low-connectivity areas

Best for: teams that prefer open-source workflows and already manage data in QGIS.

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Best for customizable forms: KoboToolbox

Why it fits:

• Strong offline mobile data collection
• Easy form creation
• Supports GPS points
• Very useful for survey-style plot data collection

Best for: research and NGO-style field surveys where forms matter more than full GIS editing.

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Best field-first surveying app: Fulcrum

Why it fits:

• Built for field data capture
• Offline mode
• GPS and map-based data entry
• Good photo, notes, and workflow support

Best for: teams wanting a polished mobile field app with simpler setup than full GIS systems.

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My quick recommendation

If you need:

• Professional GIS + offline plots + sync → ArcGIS Field Maps
• Open-source + QGIS workflow → QField
• Simple survey-style plot forms → KoboToolbox
• Field operations and inspections → Fulcrum

For variable weather conditions

Look for these features regardless of app:

• Offline capability
• Auto-save
• GPS accuracy with external receiver support
• Photo capture with timestamps
• Robust sync after reconnecting
• Devices with rugged, weather-resistant cases

If you want, I can also give you:

1. a best app by use case comparison table, or
2. recommendations based on your device, budget, and whether you use QGIS or ArcGIS.