New Vegetation Monitoring Field Tools Improve Plot Demarcation Consistency

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Heartland Inventory and Monitoring Network uses a scaled plot design for vegetation monitoring. Redesign of aging field plot frames resulted in easier to use equipment. The new designs were aimed at improving measurement precision to reduce sources of nonsampling relocation error. Although sampling sites are permanently monumented at the corners, the center point of subplots is measured from these fixed corners. Increasing confidence in long-term monitoring data through consistent plot deployment will increase the value of that data. The 1 m2 circular plot uses flexible PVC tubing with a PVC pipe inserted and fastened for deployment or coiled for transportation. The redesigned 10 m2 plot delineation device for woodlands utilized a swivel mounted on a threaded rod. Upgrades to aging field gear improved field operations by increasing precision during plot deployment.