Title | Simple method for monitoring rangeland health and wildlife habitat |
Publication Type | Conference Proceedings |
Year of Publication | 2011 |
Authors | Riginos C., Herrick JE, Sundaresan SR, Farley C, Belnap J |
Conference Name | IX International Rangeland Congress |
Series Title | Proceedings of the IX Internatoinal Rangeland Congress |
Date Published | 04/2011 |
Conference Location | Rosario, Argintina |
Accession Number | JRN00583 |
ARIS Log Number | 274308 |
Keywords | methods, rangeland health, rangeland monitoring, wildlife habitat |
Abstract | We describe a monitoring system that requires just a pencil, one page datasheet and a 1-meter stick. Data are collected using the stick at five locations on each of four 25-m transects. Vegetation cover, composition, and horizontal and vertical structure are recorded by marking simple icons on the sheet. The datasheet also allows plant density to be recorded for selected species. The datasheet is designed to allow indicators to be easily calculated on the datasheet. Most indicators require only counting, or multiplication by five. The pattern of circled cover icons on the datasheet also provides a rapid visual representation of vegetation in the 50-m diameter plot. Initial application of the protocols in Kenya and Ethiopia were successful. Workshop participants learned to collect, analyze and interpret data in as little as 3 hours. The datasheet simplifies calculation and interpretation. Standardized indicators allow for comparison across management units. |