ENTS,
We still have an open research permit for Congaree NP until end of February 2010 (it can be extended as well). The last trip in 2009 brought in some very successful hunts and measurements. This time I would like to focus on a methodology to ascertain average canopy height as well as continue to remeasure the currently identified champion trees, both state and national champs but also ENTS superlatives. With this in mind I would like to get input on the following: 1) Who can attend and what dates would work. Let’s look at the weekends in the last ½ of January through the middle of March. I would be open to several dates to do as much as possible since Congaree is not too far from me. Also, the leaf off, non super-buggy season is short… 2) Developing a methodology to assess canopy height in an unbiased and repeatable manner. Ideally, I would like to see ENTS develop a system that can be used or adapted to any site we wish. This would include small sites and those with varied topography. The Rucker Index is a great way to initially compare sites but does not show the forest on average- just on the extreme. Thoughts to consider: Would it utilize transects or plots? What size or how long? What trees are measured? Just canopy dominant or all sizes/heights? Do we mix old-growth with selectively logged or formerly clearcut sites? How are the sites selected for measuring? Random or representative? Age classes, species mix? Thoughts running through my mind include a defined study site of a given size with random plots generated with coordinates and located and sampled in the field. For example, a 10 ha site with subplots within. How many and how big? Circular plots are easy to do with a rangefinder; so would be 100 meter transects with a tape or rangefinder on a random azimuth. Thoughts please! Will F. Blozan President, Eastern Native Tree Society President, Appalachian Arborists, Inc. "No sympathy for apathy" -- Eastern Native Tree Society http://www.nativetreesociety.org Send email to [email protected] Visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/entstrees?hl=en To unsubscribe send email to [email protected]
