The forest inventory and analysis plot design

Abstract

Addendum: The supplementary documents referenced in this manuscript are posted on the Web site https://www.fia.fs.usda.gov/library/sampling/index.phpThis chapter describes the prescribed core plot2 design currently used by Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) for Phase 2 and Phase 3 ground sampling. FIA ground plots relate to the sampling frame discussed in the previous chapter as follows: One plot has been randomly located within each 6,000-acre hexagon. Each plot has been assigned to one of five panels as described in section 2.2.2. Each plot has been designated Phase 2 or Phase 3 based on the rules outlined in section 2.2.3. The center point of each plot constitutes the primary sampling unit (PSU) described in section 2.2.5. The area and vegetation data gathered on each plot serve to support and quantify the information associated with each PSU.

Parent Publication

• The enhanced forest inventory and analysis program - national sampling design and estimation procedures

Citation

Bechtold, William, A.; Scott, Charles T. 2005. The forest inventory and analysis plot design. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-80. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station, p. 37-52