A simple graphical approach to quantitative monitoring of rangelands
Rangelands
Links
- More information: Publisher Index Page (via DOI)
- Open Access Version: External Repository
- Download citation as: RIS | Dublin Core
Abstract
The article reviews graphical interpretation of the four monitoring methods that can be used to generate a variety of indicators of rangeland ecosystem function. Data for all four of the monitoring methods can be recorded on a single data sheet that is designed to be usable by somebody with minimal literacy. Indicators of plant and ground cover are central to most long-term monitoring systems. Plant and ground-cover data inform managers about forage availability, plant community composition and structure, and risk of runoff and erosion. The spatial arrangement of plants at a site in addition to the percent of the ground that is covered by plants is an important determinant of erosion potential. Vertical vegetation structure can be monitored by capturing data on maximum plant height at each stick location. Plant density method can provide an early indicator of future changes in plant cover, forage, quality, and habitat structure.
Suggested Citation
Riginos, C., Herrick, J.E., Sundaresan, S., Farley, C., and Belnap, J., 2011, A simple graphical approach to quantitative monitoring of rangelands: Rangelands, v. 33, no. 4, p. 6-13, https://doi.org/10.2111/1551-501X-33.4.6.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | A simple graphical approach to quantitative monitoring of rangelands |
| Series title | Rangelands |
| DOI | 10.2111/1551-501X-33.4.6 |
| Volume | 33 |
| Issue | 4 |
| Year Published | 2011 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Society for Range Management |
| Publisher location | Lawrence, KS |
| Contributing office(s) | Southwest Biological Science Center |
| Description | 8 p. |
| Larger Work Type | Article |
| Larger Work Subtype | Journal Article |
| Larger Work Title | Rangelands |
| First page | 6 |
| Last page | 13 |