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used for the set of sample sites. Third, a scaled representation of the grid will be overlain <br />on a computer-generated map of the target unit extending along north/south and cast/west <br />lines. Fourth, the initial placement of this grid will be implemented by selection of two <br />random numbers (an X and Y distance) to be used for locating a systematic coordinate <br />from the fixed point of reference, thereby making the effort unbiased. Fifth, where an <br />excess number of potential sample points (grid intersections) is indicated by overlain <br />maps, the excess may be randomly chosen for elimination. (If later determined that <br />additional samples are needed, the eliminated potential sample sites would be added back <br />in reverse order until enough samples can be collected.) Sixth, using a handheld compass <br />and pacing techniques, or a hand-held GPS, sample points will be located in the field. <br />Once a selected grid (sample) point is located in the field, sampling metrics will be <br />utilized in a consistent and uniform manner. In this regard, ground cover sampling <br />transects will always be oriented in the direction of the next site to be physically sampled <br />to further limit any potential bias while facilitating sampling efficiency. Depending on <br />logistics, timing, and access points to a target sampling area, the field crew may <br />occasionally layout a set of points along coordinates in one direction and then sample <br />them in reverse order. However, orientation protocol will always be maintained (i.e. in <br />the direction of the next point to be physically sampled). If the boundary of an area is <br />encountered before reaching the full length of a transect, the transect orientation will be <br />turned 90° in the appropriate direction so the transect will be completed within the target <br />unit. In this manner, edge transects will be retained entirely within the target unit by <br />"bouncing" off the boundaries. Production quadrats will always be oriented 90° to the <br />right (clockwise) of the ground cover transect and placed one meter from the starting <br />point so as to avoid any trampled vegetation. Woody plant density belts (for monitoring <br />efforts) will be extended parallel to the ground cover transects for a distance of 50 meters <br />and width of 2 meters. (If the grid distance is less than 50 meters, density belts will be <br />reconfigured to be 4 in X 25 in or similar configuration, but always totaling 100 mz.) <br />Determination of Ground Cover <br />Ground cover at each sampling site will be determined utilizing the point-intercept <br />methodology. This methodology will be applied as follows: First, a transect 10 meters in <br />length will be extended from the starting point of each sample site toward the direction of <br />the next site to be sampled. Then, at each one-meter interval along the transect, a "laser <br />point bar", "optical point bar" or 10-point frame will be situated vertically above the <br />ground surface, and a set of 10 readings recorded as to hits on vegetation (by species), <br />litter, rock (>2mm), or bare soil. Hits will be determined at each meter interval as <br />follows: <br />1. When a laser point bar is used, a battery of 10 specialized lasers situated along <br />the bar at 10-centimeter intervals will be activated and the variable intercepted by <br />each of the narrow (0.02") focused beams will be recorded; <br />4.15-29 Revision Date: 3/14/08 <br />Revision No.: TR-72