Nationwide Forest Inventory Prefield Guide

This document describes the standards, codes, methods, and definitions for Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) prefield data items. The objective is to describe CORE FIA prefield procedures that are consistent and uniform across all FIA units. This CORE is the framework for regional FIA Prefield programs; individual Prefield programs may add variables but may not change the CORE requirements. Unless otherwise noted, the items in this prefield guide are considered CORE; that is, the information will be collected by all FIA units as specified. Items or codes specified as CORE OPTIONAL are not required by individual units; however, if the item is collected or coded, it will be done as specified in this prefield guide. This document is not meant to stand alone. It is meant to be used by Prefield Interpreters along with the National Core Field Guide.

Older versions of the Nationwide Forest Inventory (NFI) Prefield Guide are available HERE.