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Treesearch

Point Intercept (PO)

Informally Refereed
Download (PDF 981 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/24062.pdf

Abstract

The FIREMON Point Intercept (PO) method is used to assess changes in plant species cover or ground cover for a macroplot. This method uses a narrow diameter sampling pole or sampling pins, placed at systematic intervals along line transects to sample within plot variation and quantify statistically valid changes in plant species cover and height over time. Plant species or ground cover classes that touch the pin are recorded as “hits” along a transect. Percent cover is calculated by dividing the number of hits for each plant species or ground cover class by the total number of points along a transect. This method is primarily suited for vegetation types less than 3 ft (1 m) in height and is particularly useful for recording ground cover.

Parent Publication

Citation

Caratti, John F. 2006. Point Intercept (PO). In: Lutes, Duncan C.; Keane, Robert E.; Caratti, John F.; Key, Carl H.; Benson, Nathan C.; Sutherland, Steve; Gangi, Larry J. 2006. FIREMON: Fire effects monitoring and inventory system. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-164-CD. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. PO-1-17