A portable system and method that automates collection, integration, analysis, reporting and archiving of data and collection and archiving of specimens in a variety of applications while insuring chain of custody integrity not attainable conventionally. Applications include : forensics, municipal management, utility management, real estate, insurance, environmental protection and remediation, safety, security, education, emergency management, land use, fish and wildlife management, construction and maintenance of highways and waterways, mining, timber, agricultural, resource exploration, manufacturing, recreational management, urban restoration, military, and archaeological preservation. Select embodiments integrate a number of functions in a handheld device, employing digital technology, integrated sensors, marking, tracking and monitoring tags, and specialized software as well as processors for analysis, such as CPUs, ASICs, PCs and the like. Select embodiments are useful to increase efficiency and reduce cost for post-processing and real-time data and specimen collection, reporting, analysis, and facilitate pro-active direction of ongoing field studies.