| |
Sampling Methods
| |
| The permanent plots in the Buell-Small Succession Study are sampled in late July. Typically each field is sampled by three or four teams of two people (a sampler and a recorder). Each team samples one permanent plot and the teams leap-frog over one another to insure that all plots are sampled. | |
| Each permanent plot is outlined by laying a wooden frame around the stakes that mark the plot. The frame is placed with as little disturbance to the vegetation as possible. | 
|
|
The plots are sampled by estimating the percent cover of each species in the plot.
If a species overhangs the plot, the percent cover overhanging is recorded. The
percent cover of bare ground, litter, lichen, and moss is also estimated. Samplers
start with the topmost layer, usually the trees, and work their way down to the species
closest to the ground. In addition to estimating the percent cover for trees, the number of stems of each tree species located in the plot is noted in a circle next to the cover. If the tree is located outside the quadrat no stems are counted. | |
| |
|
The BSS Study Site |
Sampling Methods |
Data | Examples of Analyses | Publications | |
|
Home | About BSS | Succession | Research | Photos | Administration | Contact Us | Site Map © Copyright 2004, Institute of Ecosystem Studies, All rights reserved. Email comments or suggestions to the Site Editor. http://www.ecostudies.org/bss | |