The accuracy, precision and efficiency of the point series method of vegetation sampling with reference to the low vegetative cover of the semi-desert grassland

TitleThe accuracy, precision and efficiency of the point series method of vegetation sampling with reference to the low vegetative cover of the semi-desert grassland
Publication TypeThesis
Year of Publication1961
AuthorsBaca EC
Number of Pages40
Date Published1961
UniversityNew Mexico State University
CityLas Cruces, New Mexico
Thesis TypeM.S. Thesispp
Call Number00468
Keywordscommunity, see ALSO <PLANT COMMUNITY>, dissertation, dissertations, plant community, vegetation sampling, technique, vegetation sampling, theses, thesis, vegetation sampling
AbstractA study was conducted to determine the accuracy, precision and comparative efficiency of the point series method of vegetation sampling. Accuracy and precision were determined in the laboratory on a known artificial population and in the field under natural conditions. Efficiency was determined from the fields and laboratory data. Artificial population values and values obtained with the line interception method of Canfield were used as standards for comparison. Accuracy, precision and efficiency levels were determined for 1 foot, 2 foot and 5 foot observation point intervals. When point observations were made at 1 foot and 2 foot intervals on 1 percent and 3 percent basal cover levels, the method was accurate for estimating cover. However, when observations were made at the 5 foot intervals, the method was not accurate. The method was not accurate for estimating true basal cover at the 5 percent basal cover level at any of the observation intervals. Basal cover levels obtained with the point series method and the standard method did not differ significantly. The precision and efficiency levels of the point series method were lower than those of the standard method, and the precision and efficiency of the point series method decreased as the observation point interval increased.