Establishing Transects for Vegetation and Soil Data Collection

Overview

• Transect: A line on the ground used for establishing sample points to collect vegetation and soil data.

Steps to Establish Transects

1. Finding the Zero Point

• Direction: 330 degrees from the center of the plot.
• Role: Michelle identifies and walks to the starting point.

2. Laying Out the Transect

• Initial Setup:
  • After reaching the start, roll up the tape.
  • Plant the "zero end" of the transect at the start.
  • Walk in the instructed direction while maintaining line of sight.
• Position:
  • Michelle stays to the right of the transect.
  • Keeps left arm outstretched to avoid walking on the transect.

3. Securing the Transect

• End of Transect:
  • Michelle turns around to face the instructor for direction.
  • Tape is pulled tightly and secured to the ground.

4. Returning to Center

• After Setup: Michelle returns to the center of the plots, staying to the right of the transect.

Alternative Method in Woody Areas

1. Starting the Transect

• Use of Compass: To align Michelle at the start with a stake.
• Pacing: Estimate the number of paces to reach the end while staying right of the transect.

2. Placement and Adjustment

• End of Transect:
  • Tape is placed on the ground and staked through the handle.
  • Attach the end of the tape to a PVC pipe using a ring clip.

3. Navigating Obstructions

• Through Woody Vegetation:
  • Keep the PVC pipe low, avoid litter and soil disruption.
  • Navigate around shrubs and pull the pipe from the other side.

4. Final Alignment

• Using the Pin as a Guide:
  • Unhook tape from PVC, attach it to the ground with a stake.
  • Return to the end of the transect, tension the tape.
  • Pull the stake, tighten the tape, keep it low, lock the handle, and restake.