Ecological Classification and MonitoringThe ecological classification method of monitoring rangeland plant communities by seral stage was developed by Dr. Daniel Uresk, Senior Research Biologist for the U.S. Forest Service. Data collection, classification, seral assignment, and monitoring are according to the method developed by Uresk (1990). Cluster and discriminant statistical techniques used to analyze field-collected data determined the presence of three to four seral stages defined by relationships of key plant variables for each type. Accuracy is 90% or greater for each type. The following publication, which determined seral stages on mixed-grass prairie in South Dakota, presented the original concept. It is the source document for the procedures presented for all grassland and woodland vegetation types on this web page. ApplicationA site is classified, and assigned to a seral stage by entering values for a set of key plant variables into an Excel spreadsheet. The spreadsheet calculates site means and seral assignment. Classification Types and Key Variables
* index = (% canopy cover) X (% frequency of occurrence)
* index = (% canopy cover) X (% frequency of occurrence) For each ecological type, the following files are provided:
WARNING: Be careful with the spreadsheet when loaded on a PDA. It is possible to erase formulas and stop the classification system. Always keep a backup copy! References
ContactDaniel W. Uresk (605) 341-2808 DisclaimerEvery effort is made to provide accurate and useful information. However, the U.S. Government, U.S. Department of Agriculture, the USDA Forest Service and their employees and contractors assume no legal liability for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed herein. Neither the U.S. Government, U.S. Department of Agriculture, the USDA Forest Service, nor their employees and contractors makes any warranty, express or implied, including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular application. All indirect, consequential, implied, punitive and special damages are deemed waived if you use the information for each vegetative type in any manner. The sole remedy is the price paid or, at the seller’s choice, replacement or repair of the defective information. CitationThis website should be cited as: Uresk, DW; King, RM; Javersak, J; Juntti, TM. Ecological classification and monitoring. http://www.fs.fed.us/rangelands/ecology/ecologicalclassification/index.shtml |
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Last modified: Wednesday, 30-Jul-2008 15:54:48 EDT |