Attachment-04 Common Stand Exam Field Guide R3.pdf

Southwestern Region | February 2014 (reprinted September 2024)

Common Stand Exam Region 3 Field Guide

Natural Resource Information System Field Sampled Vegetation

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Common Stand Exam Region 3 Field Guide

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Portable Data Recorder Use ....................................................................................................................... R3FG-2 Data Collection Procedures .......................................................................................................................... R3FG-5 Setting..................................................................................................................................................................... R3FG-6 Sample Design...................................................................................................................................................R3FG-24 Plot Data ...............................................................................................................................................................R3FG-32 Tree Data ........................................................................................................................................................R3FG-46 Vegetation Composition and Surface Cover...................................................................................R3FG-83 Down Woody Material ............................................................................................................................... R3FG-101

Appendices:

E Existing Vegetation References and Codes F Potential Vegetation References G Potential Vegetation Codes H Fuel Photo References and Codes I Fixed Radius Plot J Variable Radius Plot K Damage Categories, Agents, Severity Ratings and Tree Parts L Accuracy Standards M Glossary of Terms N Fuel Models

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PORTABLE DATA RECORDER USE

Execute the ExamsCE software Platform Process

Casio/Dell Axim/iPAQ Select “Start,” then select “ExamsCE.” If the exams software does not appear in the Start menu, it means there are nine items (the maximum) already in the Start menu. If this is the case, go to “Settings” then “Start menu” and remove or de-select some of the checked programs.

Then check the “ExamsCE” program.

Husky Fex21 Double-click on the “Shortcut to ExamsCE” icon.

Trimble GeoXT/GeoXM Double-click on the “Shortcut to ExamsCE” icon.

Juniper Allegro Field PC/Allegro

CE

Double-click on the “Shortcut to ExamsCE” icon.

General Operating Notes

Random Access Memory Refer to individual PDR Users Guides on how to check the Random Access Memory (RAM).

The last number listed represents the number of characters of available RAM.

Approximately 30,000 characters are needed for an average size setting. A PDR is for temporary data storage. Move data from the PDR to a more permanent data storage device such as a compact flash card, pcmcia storage card, or a personal computer.

Battery

1. Refer to individual PDR User Guides on how to check the battery level.

2. Charge the batteries each night for use the next day.

3. Pack spare batteries, use extended life batteries.

4. Get a power adapter for the car to charge the PDR when traveling to and from the site.

5. Remove modem and network cards, they draw extra power from the device even if they are not being used.

6. Turn off the PDR and change the batteries immediately if a low battery message is displayed.

7. If the PDR does not turn on, or the PDR turns on and immediately turns off, change the batteries immediately.

8. Turn the PDR off when not in use.

If there is a power loss in the field, the default file (.cse) is reset to the system default.

To restore it to your defaults:

- Select “File” then “Open”

- Select “sebackup.pdr”

- Select “File” then “Save as”

- Select “.cse”

9. Store data on external card, not internal memory.

10. Turn PDR off between plots to save battery and avoid data corruption.

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Operating the Casio Use the buttons on the left side of the machine to scroll up or down a line and to access the drop-down menus.

May use the keyboard up and down arrows to scroll up or down a line.

To delete a line of data, use the delete button or use the keyboard, highlight a field, and use the backfield key.

Operating the Husky Fex21 If you are unable to go into the field selection area and select or deselect a field to be included in the forms, or get to the tree age field because the recorder skips over the tree age field, do the following:

From the Husky main menu, select “Start” then “Setting” then “Control Panel” Double click on “Display” then select “Appearance” On the right-hand side of the display locate the word “Scheme:”

Beneath the word “Scheme:” change the drop-list to “Windows Standard.”

Beneath the word “Item:” change the drop-list to “3-D Objects.”

Next to the “Item:” drop-list, select the icon and select the lightest shade of gray

(row 1, column 2) Select “Apply and then select the small “OK” button located at the top right-hand corner of the “Display Properties” window.

Select “OK” and close out to the main menu.

Operating the Compaq iPAQ Do not load the “Dashboard” software that is on the companion CD. It will lock up your iPAQ. If you need the dashboard software, obtain it from the iPAQ web site at:

http://www.compaq.com/support/files/handheldiPAQ/us/download/14559.html Select file SP21023.

Operating the Juniper

To improve the Juniper’s display, press the yellow button and F3 key simultaneously to turn on the backlighting.

To see the CSE program, eliminate the task bar at the bottom of the Juniper by selecting “Start,” “Settings,” then “Task bar.” Uncheck “Always on top” and check “Auto hide.”

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If you are unable to go into the field selection area and select or deselect a field to be included in the forms, or get to the tree age field because the recorder skips over the tree age field, do the following:

o From the Juniper main menu, select “Start” then “Setting” then “Control Panel” o Double click on “Display” then select “Appearance” o On the right-hand side of the display locate the word “Scheme:”

o Beneath the word “Scheme:” change the drop-list to “Windows Standard.”

o Beneath the word “Item:” change the drop-list to “Desktop.”

o Select “Apply and then select the small “OK” button located at the top right-hand corner of the “Display Properties” window.

o Select “OK” and close out to the main menu.

Operating the Dell Axiom The plastic film screen protectors are shipped with a protective cover. Peel the protective cover off the screen protector before it is placed on the PDR. If the cover is not removed, the screen protector is too thick and the screen will not respond to the touch of the stylus.

PDR Model Specific Notes

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DATA COLLECTION PROCEDURES

The following fields are “required” regardless of examination level.

Setting Project Name Region Proclaimed Forest Number District Location Stand Number Date Exam Level Precision Protocol

Design Selection Method

Expansion Factor Subpopulation Variable Subpopulation Minimum Value Subpopulation Maximum Value

Plot Plot Number

Tree Status

Species

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SETTING

Accuracy standards are for intensive exams types. The accuracy standard is “No Errors” unless otherwise noted.

Setting Data Setting data can be inserted, edited, and deleted. From the main menu, select “Setting Data,” then either “Setting Data Wizard” or “Insert/Edit/Delete” to enter data.

Using the Setting Data Wizard The Setting Data Wizard allows you to insert new setting information or edit certain portions of existing setting information. All data will be saved into the “.cse” file that is currently opened.

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When the setting form has been completed and saved for a stand, and the setting is selected, use “Next” to page through the Sample Design, Setting Damages, Species of Management Interest, and Setting Remarks forms.

The buttons along the bottom of the screen have the following function:

Button Function Help Describes the column headings.

Back Inactive from this window.

Next Takes you to the Sample Design form(s).

Cancel Any modifications since window was opened will not be saved.

Save Inactive from this window once you’ve saved your data.

Finish Returns to main menu.

Using Insert/Edit/Delete in the Setting Data Under Setting Data in the main window, the “Insert/Edit/Delete” options allow you to insert new setting data in the Setting form, edit existing Setting form data for a particular setting, or delete setting data records.

To enter a new setting, select “Insert.” To edit data for an existing setting, highlight the setting and select “Edit.” To delete a setting and all associated data from the opened “.cse” file, highlight the setting and then select “Delete.”

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Editing the Setting Data

Any defaults that are contained in the “.cse” file will be entered automatically. To move between fields, use the tab key. Once you have finished entering setting data, select “Save” to return to the Insert/View form.

If the Options button is selected while in a field, a drop-down list of valid values and definitions is displayed.

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Once a valid code is highlighted, the screen closes and the valid code is inserted in the field..

If “X” or “OK” is selected, the form closes with no value chosen for the field.

Once all of the data has been entered, select “Save” to return to the main setting screen.

Editing the Setting Damages From the main menu, choose “Setting Data/Setting Damages.”

A screen of all settings currently saved under the open “.cse” file is shown. Select “Insert” from this screen and the setting form will be displayed. If an existing setting is highlighted, select “Next” to bring up the Setting Damages form.

Use the down arrow to access a new, blank line of setting damage data.

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The buttons along the bottom of the screen have the following functions:

Button Description Help or “?” Produce a pull down list of valid codes and definitions for the current field.

Back Save changes, return to the previous screen to select a new setting.

Cancel Delete all changes made since entering form; return to main menu. A warning message is displayed.

Save Save all changes.

Finish Once data has been saved, returns to the main menu.

Editing the Setting Species of Management Interest In the Species of Management Interest form, use the down arrow to access a new, blank line of setting species of management interest.

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Editing the Setting Remarks Enter remarks related to the setting. All text will be converted to upper case.

Project Name (maximum of 25 characters and/or numbers) Required Record the project name. Multiple settings may use the same project name. A project name is a useful way to group settings. Example project names are “Intermountain FIA,” “Root Rot survey,” “Stand exam,” and “Owl survey.”

Proclaimed Region (maximum of 2 numbers) Required Use a code of “3” for Region 3.

Proclaimed National Forest (maximum of 2 numbers) Required

Code Forest Code Forest Code Forest Code Forest

01 Apache 05 Coronado 09 Prescott 19 Valles Caldera National Preserve

02 Carson 06 Gila 10 Santa Fe

03 Cibola 07 Kaibab 11 Sitgreaves

04 Coconino 08 Lincoln 12 Tonto

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District (maximum of 2 numbers) Required

Forest Code District Forest Code District Apache Sitgreaves

1 Alpine Gila (cont.) 4 Glenwood

2 Black Mesa 5 Mimbres 3 Clifton 6 Reserve 6 Springerville 7 Silver City 7 Lakeside 8 Wilderness

Carson 1 Canjilon 9 Quemado 2 El Rito Kaibab 1 Williams 3 Jacarilla 2 Chalander 4 Camino Real 3 North Kaibab 6 Tres Piedras 4 Tusayan 7 Questa Lincoln 1 Smokey Bear

Cibola 2 Mt Taylor 2 Sacramento 3 Magdalena 3 Guadalupe 4 Mountainair Prescott 1 Chino Valley 5 Sandia 3 Bradshaw 6 Black Kettle 5 Verde 7 Kiowa Santa Fe 1 Coyote 8 Rita Blanca 2 Cuba

Coconino 2 Peaks 3 Jemez 4 Long Valley 4 Las Vegas 5 Mormon Lake 5 Pecos 6 Red Rock 6 Espanola 7 Mogollon Rim Tonto 1 Cave Creek

Coronado 1 Douglas 2 Globe 2 Nogales 3 Mesa 3 Sierra Vista 4 Payson 4 Stafford 5 Pleasant Valley 5 Santa Catalina 6 Tonto Basin

Gila 2 Black Range Valles Caldera National Preserve

1 Valles Caldera NP

3 Luna

Location (maximum of 16 characters and/or numbers) Required Only integers, upper or lower case alpha characters, and underscores are allowed in this field. Region 3 uses a 6-character location value, padded with leading zeros if necessary.

Stand Number (maximum of 4 numbers) Required Only integers are allowed. Record the stand number consistent with the current vegetative polygon map layer.

Measurement Number (maximum of 4 numbers) Default is “1” for CSE and new Inventory and Monitoring Exams. This field cannot be edited if doing a CSE Exam.

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Owner (maximum of 4 characters) Use the default of “USFS” for the Forest Service.

State (exactly 2 characters) Settings that cross state boundaries must be subdivided

Code State Code State AZ Arizona NM New Mexico

County (maximum of 3 numbers)

State Code County State Code County Arizona 1 Apache New Mexico (cont.) 19 Guadalupe

3 Cochise 21 Harding 5 Coconino 23 Hidalgo 7 Gila 25 Lea 9 Graham 27 Lincoln 11 Greenlee 28 Los Alamos 12 La Paz 29 Luna 13 Maricopa 31 McKinley 15 Mohave 33 Mora 17 Navajo 35 Otero 19 Pima 37 Quay 21 Pinal 39 Rio Arriba 23 Santa Cruz 41 Roosevelt 25 Yavapai 43 Sandoval

New Mexico 1 Bernalillo 45 San Juan 3 Catron 47 San Miguel 5 Chaves 49 Sante Fe 6 Cibola 51 Sierra 7 Colfax 53 Socorro 9 Curry 55 Taos 11 De Baca 57 Torrance 13 Dona Ana 59 Union 15 Eddy 61 Valencia 17 Grant

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Administrative Forest (maximum of 2 numbers)

Code Administrative Forest Code Administrative Forest 01 Apache - Sitgreaves 07 Kaibab 02 Carson 08 Lincoln 03 Cibola 09 Prescott 04 Coconino 10 Santa Fe 05 Coronado 12 Tonto 06 Gila

Date (exactly 8 numbers) Required Record the calendar month, day, and year the stand examination was completed. The format is MMDDYYYY. The database forms will accept the date with or without the “/” separator. The database will inset the separator, if not supplied, so the date format is consistent.

Examples are:

01231984 for January 23, 1984 12/07/1997 for December 7, 1997

Photo ID (exactly 14 characters and/or numbers) Record the Photo ID of the aerial photo where the majority of the setting is located.

For example: 61213012890057

First six numbers (612130) represent Photo Symbol/Project ID Second four numbers (1289) represent the roll number Last four numbers (0057) represent the exposure number

Note: When this information is loaded into the database, the Photo ID will be checked against the list of photo IDs stored in the database. If the ID is not already stored in the database, an error will result. You must enter this information via the Interface by pressing the Photo ID button adjacent to the Photo ID field.

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Examination Level (exactly 4 numbers) Required Record the examination level that identifies the scope and range of information being collected. Scope is the breath of information collected (type of form), and range is the precision of information collected (examination level). The intensity implies a measurement standard, sample design, and sample selection criteria. The actual criteria used to sample the stand must be documented on the Sample Design Form.

Tree For the tree data, record one of the following:

Code Description

0 This form was not used.

1 Quick Plot 2 Extensive Examination 3 Intensive Examination

Field Quick Plot Extensive Plot Intensive Plot

Tag Number X X Tree Status X X X Site/GST Tree X Tree Species X X X Tree Count X X X DBH/DRC DBH for trees > 4.5 feet tall DBH for trees > 4.5 feet tall DBH for trees > 4.5 feet tall Height Trees < 4.5 feet tall Trees < 4.5 feet tall GST only and trees <

4.5 feet tall Height to Crown

Radial Growth GST only Radial Growth 2

Height Growth GST only Age GST/Site only Crown Ratio Live trees only Crown Class

Crown Width

Damage Category

X X

Damage Agent X Tree Part

Damage Severity X X Wildlife Use

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Field Quick Plot Extensive Plot Intensive Plot

Log/Snag Decay If Dead/Down is taken If Dead/Down is taken

Field Quick Plot Extensive Plot Intensive Plot Cone Serotiny

Number of Stems

DRC only DRC only DRC only

Remarks

Vegetation Composition and Surface Cover For the Vegetation Composition, record one of the following:

Code Interested in

Obtaining Species to record Subpop.

Min.

Subpop.

Max. Form 1 Form 2 Form 3 Form 4

1 Quick estimate Life form only 1% 100 Required Optional Optional Optional

TES, NOX,

and/or the dominant four species

Only specific species

User defined

Required

Optional

3 All species All species to a specified % defined 100 Required Required Optional Optional

All species, including TES and NOX to trace

All species to a specified

%, but species on a list to trace defined

Down Woody For the Down Woody data, record one of the following:

0 This form was not used.

1 Data was collected, but not according to Brown’s Protocol.

2 Data was collected according to Brown’s Protocol.

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Exam Purpose (exactly 2 characters) Use one of the following codes to define the purpose of the exam. CSE exams default to “SE;” Inventory and Monitoring exams default to “IM.”

RE Regeneration/Stocking - Surveys to determine stocking rates of individual areas and for certification of regeneration.

TH Thinning Exam - certify thinning prescription accomplishment at the completion of thinning treatments.

ID Insect & Disease Exams - verify types and severity of infestation as an aid in determining treatment needs.

TI Tree Improvement - follow Tree Improvement treatments.

SE Stand Exam - determine stand composition.

CI Compartment Inventory FF Fire and Fuels FL Fuels Survey MC Marking Check

Stratum (maximum of 6 characters and/or numbers) Record the current setting stratum. Refer to aerial photo typing or other stratification information done in conjunction with the examination. Refer to Regional or Forest direction for a list of strata definitions and codes.

Existing Vegetation Reference (maximum of 8 characters and/or numbers) Record the dominant existing vegetation reference. Dominance is based on plurality of basal area. Existing vegetation reflects plant species currently present. See Appendix E for a complete list of existing vegetation reference codes.

Existing Vegetation (maximum of 8 characters and/or numbers) Record the dominant existing vegetation code. Dominance is based on plurality of basal area. Existing vegetation reflects plant species currently present. See Appendix E for a complete list of existing vegetation codes.

Potential Vegetation Reference (maximum of 4 numbers) Use code “301” for Plant Associations of Arizona and New Mexico, edition 3, July 1997.

Volume 1: Forests and Volume 2: Woodlands.

Potential Vegetation (maximum of 8 characters and/or numbers) Record the potential vegetation composition code. Potential vegetation is the plant community that would become established if all successional sequences were completed without interference by man and under the present climatic and edaphic conditions, including those created by man. See Appendix G for a complete list of potential vegetation codes.

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Structure (exactly 2 characters) Record one of the following codes that best describe the overall structure of the setting.

Structure is the distribution of tree size classes within the stand. Structure descriptions are as follows:

SS Single story - A single even canopy characterizes the setting. The greatest number of trees is in a height class represented by the average height of the setting; there are substantially fewer trees in height classes above and below this mean.

TS Two-storied - Two relatively even canopy levels can be recognized in the setting. The frequency distribution of trees by height class tends to be bimodal. Understory or overtopped trees are common. Neither canopy level is necessarily continuous or closed, but both canopy levels tend to be uniformly distributed across the setting (e.g., overstory with regenerated understory).

MS Multi-storied - At least three height size classes are commonly represented in the setting. Generally, the canopy is broken and uneven although multiple canopy levels may be distinguishable. The various size classes tend to be uniformly distributed throughout the setting.

MO Mosaic - At least two distinct height size classes are represented and these are not uniformly distributed, but are grouped in small repeating aggregations, or occur as stringers less than two chains wide, throughout the setting. Each size class aggregation is too small to be recognized and mapped as an individual setting.

UA Unknown/un-assessable - A structure classification was attempted, but the stand did not fit into one of the pre-defined categories. Note in the remarks column the reason the stand could not be classified.

Capable Growing Area (maximum of 3 numbers) Estimate the percent of the setting capable of supporting trees. Deduct areas such as roads, creeks, swamps, rock outcrops, unimproved dirt lanes, small streams, sites with standing or running water, a high water table, a rock outcropping, severe soil compaction (i.e. an old landing), or mass soil movement (slips, slides, or slumps) etc. For example, if an area contains 5% rock outcropping and 10% road, record a capable growing area of 85%.

Accuracy Standard: ± 10 percent.

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Example 1: Large, scattered boulders cover 25 percent of the setting. However, tree roots can fully utilize the space beneath the boulders. The boulders thus have no effect on potential tree stocking. Capable growing area is thus 100%.

Example 2: A swampy meadow covers 10% of the setting. Capable growing area is thus 90%.

Fuel Model (maximum of 2 numbers) Record the predominant setting fuel model determined by the plurality of sample plot fuel model codes. Refer to Appendix N for a complete list of codes and descriptions.

Elevation (maximum of 5 numbers) Record the median setting elevation, above mean sea level, in feet.

Accuracy Standard: ± 2 contour intervals.

Aspect (maximum of 3 numbers) Record the predominant setting aspect in degrees, 0° to 360°. Record in true north (i.e., always set the declination on your compass). Aspect may be determined from contour maps. Aspect is determined along the direction of slope for land surfaces with at least 5 percent slope in a generally uniform direction. Aspect is measured with a hand compass along the same direction used to determine slope.

If aspect changes gradually across the setting, record an average aspect.

If aspect changes across the setting but is predominately of one direction, code predominate direction, rather than the average.

If the setting falls on or straddles a canyon bottom or narrow ridge top, code the aspect of the ridgeline or canyon bottom.

If the setting falls on a canyon bottom or on a narrow ridge top, but most of the area lies on one side hill, code the aspect of the side hill.

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0 Flat 360 360° 72 72° 90 90°

999 Indeterminate/No predominant aspect/Undulating

Accuracy Standard: ± 45 degrees.

Slope (maximum of 3 numbers) Record the angle of slope across the setting. Slope is determined by sighting the clinometer along a line parallel to the average incline (or decline). This angle is measured along the shortest pathway down slope before the drainage direction changes. To measure Slope, Observer 1 should stand at the uphill edge and sight Observer 2, who stands at the downhill edge. Sight Observer 2 at the same height as the eye-level of Observer 1. Read the slope directly from the percent scale of the clinometer.

If slope changes gradually across the setting, record an average slope.

If slope changes across the setting but the slope is predominately of one direction, code predominate slope percentage rather than the average.

If the setting falls directly between two side hills, code the average slope of the side hill(s).

If the setting falls on a canyon bottom or on a narrow ridge top, but most of the area lies on one side hill, code the slope of the side hill.

Slope Position (exactly 2 characters) Record the position of the setting on the landscape. The definitions are from: Soil survey Staff. 1993. National Soil Survey Handbook (Title 430-VI) USDA Soil Conservation Service.

SU Summit/Ridgetop/Plateau. The topographically highest hillslope position of a hillslope profile and exhibiting a nearly level surface.

SH Shoulder. The hillslope position that forms the uppermost inclined surface near the top of a hillslope. It comprises the transition zone from backslope to summit.

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Slope Position (cont.)

BS Backslope. The hillslope position that forms the steepest inclined surface and principle element of many hillslopes. In profile, backslopes are commonly steep, linear, and bounded by a convex shoulder above and descending to concave footslope. They may or may not include cliff segments. Backslopes are commonly erosional forms produced by mass movement and running water.

FS Footslope. The hillslope position that forms the inner, gently inclined surface at the base of a hillslope. In profile, footslopes are commonly concave. It is a transition zone between upslope sites of erosion and transport.

TS Toeslope. The hillslope position that forms the gently inclined surface at the base of a hillslope. Toeslopes in profile are commonly gentle and linear, and are constructional surfaces forming the lower part of a hillslope continuum that grades to a valley bottom.

VB Valley Bottom. Wide valley bottom beyond influence of toeslope.

Accuracy Standard: ± 1 class.

Acres (maximum of 4 numbers) Record the total setting acres.

Radial Growth Interval (maximum of 2 numbers) Record the time period used for measuring radial growth. The default is “10” years. If the tree age is less than the radial growth interval, record the tree age and DBH and leave the radial growth field blank. Values less than 1 are not allowed.

Radial Growth Interval #2 (maximum of 2 numbers) Record the second time period for measuring radial growth if two radial growth measurements are taken. A default value of 0 years is assumed. If the tree age is less than the radial growth interval, record the tree age and DBH, and leave the radial growth field blank. Values less than 1 are not allowed.

Height Growth Interval (maximum of 2 numbers) Record the time period associated with the height growth measurements. Only one time period can be used for each examination. The default is “5” years. If the tree age is less than the height growth interval, record the tree age and height and leave the height growth field blank. Values less than 1 are not allowed.

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Fuel Photo Reference (maximum of 3 numbers) Record the fuel photo reference code. The corresponding photo is recorded on the plot form in the “residual descriptive code.” Refer Refer to Appendix H for a complete list of Fuel Photo references and codes.

Precision Protocol (maximum of 5 letters) Use “CSE” in this field.

Examiner (maximum of 12 characters and/or numbers) Record the individual(s) responsible for data collection. If the full name is longer than 12 characters, use only the last name.

Damage Category (maximum of 2 numbers) Record damage seen within the setting that was not recorded as tree damage or plot history. See Appendix K for a complete list of damage category codes.

Accuracy Standard: No Errors if found in stand along transect and not represented in tree damage or plot history.

Damage Agent (maximum of 3 numbers) Record the damage agent. See Appendix K for a complete list of all damage agent codes.

Accuracy Standard: Locally specified if found in setting along transect and not represented in tree damage or plot history.

Damage Severity (maximum of 3 characters and/or numbers) Record the damage severity. See Appendix K for a complete list of all damage severity codes. Use the setting severity codes where indicated in Appendix K.

Accuracy Standard: Locally specified if found in setting and not represented in tree damage.

Note: Multiple damages can be recorded on each tree and in some cases, is encouraged.

For example, if a beetle has caused top kill, both beetle damage and physical damage of top kill should be recorded.

Species of Management Interest (maximum of 8 characters and/or numbers) Record the “plant species of management interest” that occurs in the setting, but does not occur on any of the plots. Species of management interest may include noxious weeds, threatened, endangered, or sensitive plants, or management indicator species. Multiple species codes may be entered. The PDR allows 10 species per setting. Note the approximate location of these species in the stand sketch notes. See Appendix H for a complete list of noxious weeds, threatened, endangered, and sensitive plants.

Note: This is only an indication of the presence of a species of management interest. To determine the extent of the occurrence, another exam should be conducted.

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Latitude/Longitude Datum (exactly 4 characters) Datum is an essential coordinate system component. Datum should always be recorded whenever latitude and longitude are recorded. There are three valid datum values; NAD27, NAD83 and WGS84.

User Code (maximum of 4 characters and/or numbers) The data entered in this field is not managed at a National level and is stored in a generically labeled field. Check with your Region and Forest for specific instructions on using this field.

Sketch Map and Traverse Notes Make a sketch of the setting showing the relative location of the plots. Record azimuth and distance for each transect. Include a North arrow and other notable features such as roads, trails, lakes, and creeks that will assist in relocating the plots. Label each feature. This map is not stored in the database.

Setting Remarks (maximum of 242 characters and/or numbers) Record remarks about specific observations on overall setting conditions. Remarks should not repeat information provided elsewhere.

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SAMPLE DESIGN

Complete one Sample Design Form for each setting. The accuracy standard is “No Errors”

Portable Data Recorders From the main menu, select: “Setting Data,” then “Sample Design Form.” Highlight the setting to edit the Sample Design Form, then select “Next.” Once an existing setting record is selected, the sample design associated with the setting can be defined. The top of the sample design screen contains tabs to access the sample design data for the tree, vegetation, surface cover, and down woody material forms.

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Help Contains hints about adding, inserting, and deleting a row of data.

Restore Delete all changes; restore to the original sample design that accompanied the software. A warning message is NOT displayed.

Back Return to the Setting Insert/View screen.

Next Jump to the Setting Damages screen. This button is only active when using the Setting Data Wizard.

Cancel Delete all changes; restore all field selections to the original list that accompanied the software. A warning message is displayed.

Finish Return to the main menu.

The accuracy standard for all fields is “No Errors” unless otherwise noted.

Sample Selection Method Type (exactly 3 characters) Required Record the method used to select trees, shrubs, grasses, or down woody material. This field defines the type of each plot; fixed area plot (FRQ), variable radius plot (BAF), or a transect line (TRN).

FRQ Frequency for fixed area plots or linear strip plots BAF Basal area factor for a variable radius plot TRN Fixed-length transect

Sample Expansion Factor (maximum of 6 numbers; may include one decimal)

This field corresponds to the Sample Selection Method Type, and converts tree or piece data to a per-acre basis. This field defines the size of each plot; the BAF used with the variable radius plot, the size of the fixed are plot, and the transect length.

Sample Selection Method Type

Expansion Factor

Description

FRQ 20 The inverse of a 1/20th acre plot or strip area FRQ 3 The inverse of a 1/3rd acre plot or strip area FRQ .2 The inverse of a 5 acre plot or strip area BAF 40 40 basal area factor TRN 27 The horizontal length of a transect line to the nearest foot

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Starting Azimuth (maximum of 3 numbers) Record the starting azimuth. Azimuth is only used for transect lines (selection method type of "TRN"). This field defines the starting azimuth of the transect line on the first plot installed. Write in the remarks column if the azimuth will remain the same for all subsequent plots, or if it will rotate X degrees on each subsequent plot.

Subpopulation Filter (maximum of 8 characters) Record the filter to define the sample subpopulation. This field is used to specify that only standing live, only standing dead, only stumps, only down, or both standing live and standing dead vegetation will be sampled. This field is not used for the surface cover form type. Use the following codes:

LIVE Standing live DEAD Standing dead ALL Both standing live and standing dead STUMPS Stumps DOWN Both down live and down dead

Note: If down trees will be recorded on the tree form, a subpopulation value of “down” must be included in the sample design.

In rare cases, it is necessary to exclude specific species from the sample. In this case, enter the species code, a dash “-,” and a standing live (L), standing dead (D), or standing live and standing dead (A) flag in this field. Then, enter “SPP” in the subpopulation variable, and enter “999.9” in the subpopulation minimum value. Examples are:

POTR5-L Exclude standing live aspen PIPO-D Exclude standing dead ponderosa pine LAOC-A Exclude both standing live and standing dead larch

In rare cases, it is necessary to exclude vegetation with specific damages from the sample.

In this case, enter the damage category in this field. Then, enter “DMG” in the subpopulation variable, and enter “999.9” in the subpopulation minimum value. Examples are:

21 Root/butt diseases 11 Bark beetles

Selection Criteria Number (maximum of 2 numbers) Record a sequential number, starting with “1,” for each line of data within a sample selection method. Do not reuse a number between sample selection methods. Vegetation

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must meet one of the sequentially numbered criteria in order to be sampled on the plot type. If two or more lines have the same number, they are considered a “set,” and vegetation must meet all the criteria in the set in order to be sampled by that selection method.

Example 1: On a variable radius plot, sample all live and dead trees which are either greater than 5.0 inches DBH or are greater than 3.0 inches DRC. This requires two different selection criteria numbers:

Form Type

Sample Selection Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop.

Maximum

Value

TREE BAF 20 ALL 1 DBH 5.0 999.9

2 DRC 3.0 999.9

Example 2: On a 27-foot transect, sample down woody pieces that are greater than 12 inches at the intersection diameter AND are at least six feet long. This requires the SAME selection criteria number. This implies that both intersection diameter and piece length must be recorded in order for a piece of vegetation to meet these two criteria.

Sample Selection Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop.

Maximum

Value

DNWDY TRN 27 DOWN 1 DIA 12.0 999.9

1 LGT 6 999.9

Example 3: If both of the above selection parameters were placed on the same sample design form it would look like the following:

Sample Selection Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop.

Maximum

Value

TREE BAF 20 ALL 1 DBH 5.0 999.9

2 DRC 3.0 999.9

DNWDY TRN 27 DOWN 3 DIA 12.0 999.9

3 LGT 6 999.9

The first two lines have different selection criteria numbers, hence a piece of vegetation would have to meet either one of the criteria to be sampled on the variable radius plot.

The next two lines have the same selection criteria numbers, hence a piece of vegetation would have to meet both of the criteria to be sampled on the transect. This implies that both intersection diameter and piece length must be recorded in order for a piece of vegetation to meet these two criteria.

R3FG-28

Subpopulation Variable (exactly 3 characters) Required Record the characteristic used to define the sampled subpopulation. This field defines which characteristic of the vegetation will be measured to see if it meets the sample criteria. For example, “DBH” means the diameter at breast height. “LGT” refers to the length of the piece of vegetation.

DBH Diameter at Breast Height DRC Diameter at Root Collar HGT Height CVR Percent Vegetation Species Cover SVC Percent Ground Surface Cover LGT Length DIA Diameter at Midpoint or Intersection DMG Tree Damage Category SPP Species

Subpopulation Minimum Value (maximum of 6 numbers; may include 2 decimals)

Record the minimum subpopulation value. The default is zero. For example, if the subpopulation variable is set at “DBH,” this field defines the minimum DBH the vegetation must have in order to be sampled on the plot.

Subpopulation Maximum Value (maximum of 6 numbers; may include 2 decimals)

Record the maximum subpopulation value. The default is 999.9. For example, if the subpopulation variable is set at “LGT,” this field defines the maximum length the vegetation must be in order to be sampled on the plot.

Example Designs for Measuring Large Trees

Example 1: Sample all (standing live and standing dead) trees 5.0” + DBH with a 40 BAF.

Sample Selection Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

Value

BAF 40 ALL 1 DBH 5.0 999

Example 2: Sample live standing live trees 5.0”+ DBH with a 30 BAF.

Method

Sample

Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

BAF 30 LIVE 1 DBH 5.0 999

R3FG-29

Example 3: Sample standing dead trees 10.0”+ DBH with a 10 BAF.

Method

Sample

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

BAF 10 DEAD 1 DBH 10 999

Example 4: Sample standing live trees 5.0”+ DBH or 3.0”+ DRC on a 10th acre plot.

Method

Sample

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

Value

FRQ 10 LIVE 1 DBH 5 999

LIVE 2 DRC 3 999

Example Designs for Measuring Small Trees

Example 1: Sample standing live and standing dead trees .1-4.9” DBH, also sample live trees .5’- 4.4’ in height on a 100th acre plot.

Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

Value

FRQ 100 ALL 1 DBH .1 4.9

LIVE 2 HGT .5 4.4

Example 2: Sample standing live trees 1.0-4.9” DBH or 1.0-2.9” DRC on a 50th acre plot.

Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

Value

FRQ 50 LIVE 1 DBH 1.0 4.9

LIVE 2 DRC 1.0 2.9

Example 3: Sample stumps 10.0”+ diameter at root collar on a 10th acre plot.

Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

FRQ 10 STUMPS 1 DRC 10 999

R3FG-30

Example 4: On a 300th acre plot; sample all (standing live and standing dead) trees 3.0- 4.9” DBH EXCEPT aspen, sample standing live trees 0.1-2.9” DBH and .5-4.9’ high EXCEPT aspen, and sample standing live aspen 1.0-4.9’ in height.

Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

Value FRQ 300 All 1 DBH 3 4.9

POTR5-

A

1 SPP 999

LIVE 2 DBH 0.1 2.9

LIVE 2 HGT .5 4.4

POTR5-

A

2 SPP 999

POTR5-

L

3 HGT 1.0 4.9

Example Designs for Measuring Down Woody Material

Example 1: Use Brown’s protocols. Using a 7’ transect, record the number of pieces on each of the three intersection diameter classes (0.1-.24, .25-.99, and 1.0-2.9). Using a 27’ transect, record information on all pieces 3.0”+ in intersection diameter.

Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

Value

TRN 7 DOWN 1 DIA 0.1 .24

DOWN 2 DIA .25 .99

DOWN 3 DIA 1.0 2.99

TRN 27 DOWN 4 DIA 3.0 999

Example 2: Using fuel photos, estimate per acre down material volume and weight values for three size classes.

Method

Sample Expansion

Factor Subpop.

Filter

Selection Criteria Number

Subpop.

Variable

Subpop.

Minimum

Value

Subpop Maximum

Value

FRQ 1 DOWN 1 DIA .01 3.0

DOWN 2 DIA 3.1 5.0

DOWN 3 DIA 5.1 999

R3FG-31

Sample Design Remarks (maximum of 242 characters and/or numbers) Record information about each line in the sample design form.

R3FG-32

PLOT DATA

Record separate plots of data for each plot in the stand. Accuracy standard is “No Errors”

From the main menu select: “Plot Data,” then “Plot Form.”

Select the appropriate setting, then select the “Next” button at the bottom of the screen.

The plot number value (leftmost column) will increment by one as the keyboard’s down arrow key is used to highlight new rows of plot data. Only those plot data fields (selected during the Setup process) will be displayed on this screen.

To insert a new plot anywhere on the form, press the keyboard’s Insert key, or navigate to the last plot (i.e., last line) on the form and press the keyboard’s down arrow key.

R3FG-33

To delete an existing plot anywhere on the form, press the keyboard’s Delete key. You will be asked if you want to delete that particular plot.

The buttons along the bottom of the screen have the following functions:

Help Contains hints about each plot data field.

Options:

Change Plot ID’s

Changes Plot ID Numbers.

Select the Plot ID number you want to change under “Current PlotID’s” on the left. Type in a new Plot ID number in the “Plot ID Changer” box, then click “Change ID.” Do this for all Plot ID numbers you want changed. When finished, click “Save.”

Options:

Insert Record

Inserts a new plot record to the bottom of the form.

This can also be done by pressing the keyboard Insert key, or navigating to the last plot (i.e., last line) on the form and pressing the keyboard’s down arrow key.

Options:

Delete Record

Deletes an existing plot from anywhere on the form.

OR, press the keyboard’s Delete key. You will be asked if you want to delete that particular plot.

R3FG-34

Options:

Sample Design(s) by Plot

Allows you to select specific portions of the sample design(s) for the data you want (or don’t want).

Simply locate the portion of the sample design from the left-hand (grayed area) side of the form, and then locate the “Plot ID” number.

Select the box where the sample design portion and Plot ID number intersect. An ‘X’ inside the intersecting box denotes that data will be taken for that portion of the sample design and corresponding Plot ID number. Upon completion, click “Save|Exit.”

Adj. Slope Radius Plot

Computes the adjusted slope plot radius.

Enter the inverse of the plot size such as a 10 for a 1/10th acre plot.

Enter the slope, in percent. Select the “Compute” button. The computed “PtRad” field contains the plot radius without a slope correction, and the “SlPtRa” field contains the plot radius with a slope correction.

R3FG-35

Latitude and Longitude

To automatically populate the Plot Latitude and Longitude fields from a GPS receiver:

1. Make sure the plot latitude and longitude fields are selected in

“Setup/Field Selections.”

2. Make sure the correct communication port was set as the default in “Setup/User Definitions.”

3. Highlight the plot latitude field.

4. Select the pull-down list arrow

5. Select “Input Form”

6. Select the “Get GPS” (only available in Exams CE).

Plot History and Plot Remarks From the main menu, select “Plot Data” and then select “History/Remarks.”

Select the setting ID and plot number for the plot history and remarks. Then select the “Next” button at the bottom of the screen.

R3FG-36

Enter the plot history and plot history year. Use the down arrow to access a new line of data. Enter the plot remarks, up to 242 characters. The remarks will be changed to all upper case letters.

Help Contains hints about the history and remarks fields.

Back Return to the select setting ID screen.

Next Inactive from this screen.

Cancel Delete all changes; restore all field values to the original values that accompanied the software. A warning message is displayed.

Finish Return to the main menu

The accuracy standard is “No Errors” unless otherwise noted.

Plot Number (maximum of 3 numbers) Record plot number for each sample plot within a setting. Plots do not have to be numbered consecutively. The total number of plots should equal the number of plots on the Sample Design Form.

Use a global positioning system (GPS) unit to determine the plot latitude and longitude of all plots. Collect at least 180 GPS readings at plot center, which will then be averaged by the GPS unit. Each individual reading should have an error of less than 70 ft if possible (the error of all the averaged readings is far less). Soon after arriving at plot center, use the GPS unit to attempt to collect coordinates. If suitable readings (180 readings at error < 70 ft) cannot be obtained, try again before leaving the plot center.

R3FG-37

Plot Latitude (exactly 8 numbers) Record the plot latitude as measured by a Global Positioning System (GPS). All latitude values will be positive (North assumed). Degrees must be from 18-71 inclusive, minutes must be from 0-59 inclusive and seconds must be from 0-59.99 inclusive.

Plot Longitude (exactly 8 numbers) Record the plot longitude as measured by a Global Positioning System (GPS). All latitude values will be positive (West assumed). Degrees must be from 44-172 inclusive, minutes must be from 0-59 inclusive and seconds must be from 0-59.99 inclusive.

Capable Growing Area Percent (maximum of 3 numbers) Estimate the percent of the plot area capable of supporting trees. Deduct areas such as roads, creeks, swamps, rock outcrops, unimproved dirt lanes, small streams, sites with standing or running water, a high water table, a rock outcropping, severe soil compaction (i.e. an old landing), or mass soil movement (slips, slides, or slumps) etc. For example, if an area contains 5% rock outcropping and 10% road, record a capable growing area of 85%.

Accuracy Standard: ± 10 percent

Example 1: Large, scattered boulders cover 25 percent of the plot. However, tree roots can fully utilize the space beneath the boulders. The boulders thus have no effect on potential tree stocking. Capable growing area is thus 100%.

R3FG-38

Example 2: A swampy meadow covers 10% of the plot. Capable growing area is thus 90%.

Plot Aspect (maximum of 3 numbers) Record the predominant plot aspect in degrees, 0° to 360°. Record in true north (i.e.

always set the declination on your compass). Aspect may be determined from contour maps. Aspect is determined along the direction of slope for land surfaces with at least 5 percent slope in a generally uniform direction. Aspect is measured with a hand compass along the same direction used to determine slope.

If aspect changes gradually across the plot, record an average aspect.

If aspect changes across the plot but is predominately of one direction, code predominate aspect, rather than the average.

If the plot falls on or straddles a canyon bottom or narrow ridge top, code the aspect of the ridgeline or canyon bottom.

If the plot falls on a canyon bottom or on a narrow ridge top, but most of the area lies on one side hill, code the aspect of the side hill.

Use a code of zero for flat Use a code of 999 for indeterminate, predominant, or undulating

Examples are:

Code Description 0 Flat

360 360° 72 72° 90 90°

999 Indeterminate/No predominant aspect/Undulating

Accuracy Standard: ± 45 degrees.

Plot Slope (maximum of 3 numbers) Record the angle of slope across the plot. Slope is determined by sighting the clinometer along a line parallel to the average incline (or decline). This angle is measured along the shortest pathway down slope before the drainage direction changes. To measure Slope, Observer 1 should stand at the uphill edge and sight Observer 2, who stands at the downhill edge. Sight Observer 2 at the same height as the eye-level of Observer 1. Read the slope directly from the percent scale of the clinometer.

If slope changes gradually across the plot, record an average slope.

If slope changes across the plot but the slope is predominately of one direction, code predominate slope percentage rather than the average.

If the slope falls directly between two side hills, code the average slope of the side hill(s).

If the slope falls on a canyon bottom or on a narrow ridge top, but most of the area lies on one side hill, code the slope of the side hill.

R3FG-39

Slope Position (exactly 2 characters) Record the plot position on the landscape. Slope position definitions are from: National Soil Survey Handbook (Title 430-VI). USDA Soil Conservation Service, 1993.

SU Summit/Ridgetop/Plateau. The topographically highest hillslope position of a hillslope profile and exhibiting a nearly level surface.

SH Shoulder. The hillslope position that forms the uppermost inclined surface near the top of a hillslope. It comprises the transition zone from backslope to summit.

BS Backslope. The hillslope position that forms the steepest inclined surface and principal element of many hillslopes. In profile, backslopes are commonly steep, linear, and bounded by a convex shoulder above and descending to concave footslope. They may or may not include cliff segments. Backslopes are commonly erosional forms produced by mass movement and running water.

FS Footslope. The hillslope position that forms the inner, gently inclined surface at the base of a hillslope. In profile, footslopes are commonly concave. It is a transition zone between upslope sites of erosion and transport.

TS Toeslope. The hillslope position that forms the gently inclined surface at the base of a hillslope. Toeslopes in profile are commonly gentle and linear, and are constructional surfaces forming the lower part of a hillslope continuum that grades to valley bottom.

VB Valley Bottom. Wide valley bottom beyond influence of toeslope.

Accuracy Standards: ± 1 Class

Slope Position

R3FG-40

Slope Horizontal Shape (exactly 2 characters) Record the micro-site horizontal shape of the plot. The horizontal shape is oriented across the slope, perpendicular to the vertical shape, or roughly parallel to the contours of the landforms. It goes from side-slope to side-slope. Use 1/10-acre plot for ocular estimate.

Valid codes are the same as Slope Vertical Shape defined below.

Slope Vertical Shape (exactly 2 characters) Record the…