John Fort wrote: > We want to create a map of plants located within 8mx8m plots. Each > plant was marked by putting a nail in the ground at the base of its > stem. Next to each nail we also inserted a surveying flag. We want to know > the x,y coordinates of each plant (relative to a reference point at the > corner of the plot) to within 2 centimeters. > > Can anyone suggest a cheap (we hope) and efficient method to collect the > necessary data for constructing a map with 2 cm accuracy?
------------ Try a plane table and alidade. It's a fairly easy technique to learn and is about as quick as you can get for basic spatial info over a small area. It maybe useful, though 2 cm maybe more than it can deliver. Links: http://www.tpub.com/engbas/11-24.htm http://nptel.iitm.ac.in/courses/Webcourse-contents/IIT-ROORKEE/SURVEYING/modules/module10/lesson33.htm Not an endorsement, but K&E and Gurley used to sell reliable equipment. Or depending on your handiness and accuracy requirements you can build your own. If you're going to try it, get the hardest lead pencil you can find and keep it sharp! ---chris Christopher J Wells, Geographer National Wetlands Research Center, USGS 700 Cajundome Blvd Lafayette, LA 70506 Office: 337 266 8651 Cell: 337 288 0737 [EMAIL PROTECTED]
