Methodology for the Re-location of Permanent Plot Markers Using Spatial Analysis

Author: Small Erin D.   Wilson Jeremy S.   Kimball Alan J.  

Publisher: Society of American Foresters

ISSN: 0742-6348

Source: Northern Journal of Applied Forestry, Vol.24, Iss.1, 2007-03, pp. : 30-36

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Abstract

A well-designed method of establishing, maintaining, and remeasuring permanent plots plays an essential role in long-term data collection. This article describes the re-location of plots set up 25 years earlier using conventional techniques of paced distances and compass directions. As a result, we needed to design and use a method for re-locating plot markers originally established without the benefit of spatial coordinates. Preplanned ground searches using a GIS, digital orthophotoquads, landmark maps, and aerial photographs improved our plot location efficiency and success. In 2003, we were able to re-locate 90% of the plots set up in 1978 to measure the vegetation dynamics after a fire in Baxter State Park, Maine. The spatial coordinates of these permanent plots were documented for future measurement. Lessons learned and techniques developed for this project can facilitate the re-location of permanent plots in other studies and can also be used to improve the documentation of newly established plot locations.