Suitability of the line intersect method for sampling hardwood logging residues

Abstract

The line intersect method of sampling logging residues was tested in Appalachian hardwoods and was found to provide unbiased estimates of the volume of residue in cubic feet per acre. Thirty-two chains of sample line were established on each of sixteen 1-acre plots on cutover areas in a variety of conditions. Estimates from these samples were then compared to actual volumes obtained from a 100 percent cruise of each plot. No consistent bias was found; and, when species, slope, cutting method, road influence, and piece length were examined, their effects were found to be nonsignificant. From the average variance found with the line intersect method, a table of recommended sample sizes for several levels of precision was prepared. From the study, it was also learned that sampling time is directly related to residue volume per acre and type of cut; however, the relation is not as strong with the line intersect method as with fixed-area plots.

Citation

Martin, A. Jeff. 1976. Suitability of the line intersect method for sampling hardwood logging residues. Res. Pap. NE-339. Upper Darby, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 6p.