Forest Resource Assessment in Nepal
Draft of the Field Manual for the Test Inventory 2010
July 29, 2010
FRA-Nepal
ABBREVIATIONS
CCSP
DFRS
FAO
FRA
LRP
NTFP
QA
QC
RS
UN-REDD
VP
Concentric Circular Sample Plot
Department of Forest Research and Survey
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Forest Resource Assessment
Local Resource Person
Non-Timber Forest Product
Quality Assurance
Quality Control
Remote Sensing
United Nations’ programme "Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest
Degradation in Developing Countries"
Vegetation Plot
CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................... 2
2.1 Overview of data collection process .................................................................................................... 3
2.4 Preparatory measures prior to fieldwork.................................................................................................. 7
3 FIELD SAMPLING DESIGN ........................................................................................................................ 8
3.1 Cluster design........................................................................................................................................... 8
3.2 Plot design ................................................................................................................................................ 8
4 INSTRUCTIONS FOR DATA COLLECTION IN THE FIELD ................................................................ 11
4.1 Locating sample plots in the field .......................................................................................................... 11
4.2 Collection of attributes describing plots and forest stands .................................................................... 11
4.2.1 Plot variables ................................................................................................................................... 11
4.2.2 Stand delineation ............................................................................................................................. 17
4.2.3 Stand description ............................................................................................................................. 19
4.2.4 Non-Timber Forest Products........................................................................................................... 25
4.2.5 Disturbances .................................................................................................................................... 28
4.3 Collection of tree-level characteristics................................................................................................... 30
4.3.1 Definitions for tree variables .......................................................................................................... 30
4.3.2 Measuring principles ....................................................................................................................... 31
4.3.3 Characteristics of tally trees ............................................................................................................ 32
4.3.4 Characteristics of sample trees........................................................................................................ 35
4.3.5 Measurement of dead wood ............................................................................................................ 36
4.4 Assessing the crown cover of shrub vegetation ..................................................................................... 38
4.5 Tallying shrubs....................................................................................................................................... 39
4.6 Seedling and sapling measurements ...................................................................................................... 40
4.7 Collecting soil samples .......................................................................................................................... 40
4.7.1 Principles of soil sampling .............................................................................................................. 40
4.7.2 Sampling organic and surface soils and deeper soil layers ............................................................. 41
4.7.3 Assessing soil profiles..................................................................................................................... 43
4.8 Assessing biodiversity characteristics.................................................................................................... 45
4.8.1 Coverage of species ........................................................................................................................ 45
4.8.2 Epiphytes, parasites, climbers and their host trees ......................................................................... 46
4.8.3 Large wildlife species ..................................................................................................................... 46
4.9 Time measurements ............................................................................................................................... 48
4.10 Instructions for photographing ............................................................................................................. 49
5 Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) ........................................................................................ 50
5.1 QA/QC for Field Measurements ............................................................................................................ 50
5.2 QA/QC for Laboratory Measurements .................................................................................................. 51
5.3 QA/QC for Data Entry ........................................................................................................................... 51
5.4 QA/QC for Data Archiving .................................................................................................................... 51
REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................................ 52
Annexes............................................................................................................................................................ 53
FIELD FORMS ................................................................................................................................................ 53
Annex VII ........................................................................................................................................................ 63
Description of equipments ............................................................................................................................... 63
1 INTRODUCTION
The Project “Forest Resource Assessment in Nepal” (FRA) is a bilateral, five-year project financed by the
governments of Finland and Nepal. The FRA project bases on an agreement between the governments of
Nepal and Finland to expand their bilateral cooperation to the natural resources sector covering water and
sanitation, environment, forestry and climate change.
The purpose of the project is to improve the provision of adequate forestry data and its processing for
national forest policy development and for national level forestry sector decision making in Nepal. The
national level information is especially required to asses regionally sustainable utilisation potentials of
resources; these data are not available for the entire Nepal at the moment. National-level information on the
forest resources and their development is also needed for committing the country to new international
initiatives and processes in relation to climate change mitigation with a focus on deforestation and forest
degradation. The need for the full cover forest attribute data with forest carbon estimates is well established
in the case of Nepal that is one of the pilot countries of the UN-REDD programme "Reducing Emissions
from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries".
Due to the demanding natural conditions of Nepal, it is a justified requirement to efficiently utilise modern
data collection, management and processing techniques together with remote sensing -based information to
produce cost-efficient inventory procedures. In order to obtain the quality standards set for the inventory
results, the priority cannot however be given to the efficiency requirements instead of firm, statistically
sound inventory design. The field sampling design to be used in the FRA bases on the two-phase cluster
sampling method that is used to locate the basic sampling units, i.e. sample plots, in the field. The plot
design used for tallying trees is the Concentric Circular Sample Plot.
Together with the field sampling designing a special care has been given for the determination of
measurement setups appropriate for the long-term monitoring of forest resources and change detection in
terms of forest characteristics including soil components. Therefore, the basic principle is that all the second
phase sample plots, i.e. all the plots located in the filed, are treated and established as permanent sample
plots which are needed for obtaining growth data for forest modelling and assessing removals and changes
in land use.
The previous inventories mainly focused on estimating timber volumes and partly to biomass of the forest
trees. Limited efforts were made to generate the information on non-timber forest products (NTFPs) and
biological diversity of forests, trees and vascular species, for instance. Protected areas were even left outside
the inventory. In the ongoing FRA, the inventory data to be collected will not only provide information on
the traditional forest and tree characteristics but also on dead wood, forest and soil carbon, Trees Outside
Forests (ToF), human impacts, and biodiversity variables including, for instance, Non-Timber Forest
Products (NTFPs), other vascular plants, macro fungi and flagship mammals.
This Field Manual is developed by series of consultation with national and international experts in order to
carry out National Forest Inventory to be executed by the Department of Forest Research and Survey
(DFRS) with the financial and technical aid of the FRA Project. Earlier comments by stakeholders and
suggestions obtained by the needs assessments are also carefully considered while preparing the manual.
The manual describe methods, procedures and steps for executing NFI. They introduce globally accepted
equipments, instruments, methodologies, procedures and standards in forest inventory and offer a detailed
recipe to use them more efficiently and effectively. In other words, blended methods and procedures are
presented coherently to make them applicable to a wide range of eco-regions. The field manual offer
guidance on defining clusters with the help of Remote Sensing maps and tools, as well as a complete set of
procedures on application of remote sensing, GIS and ground inventory. They provide, in short, precise,
accurate, reliable and user-friendly forest inventory methodologies adapted to Nepal’s specificities.
2 ORGANIZATION OF FIELDWORK
2.1 Overview of data collection process
Data are collected by the field crews for tracts, plots, subplots and Land Use/Forest Type Section (LUS).
The two main information sources for the inventory are:
1) Field measurements and observations;
2) Interviews with local people, land owners, key external informants such as District Forest Officer
(DFO), Warden and Community Forestry User Group (CFUG) etc responsible for the area where the
tract is located.
These two sources of information imply the use of different methods and approaches that complement each
other. One them will be used as the main source, according to the type of information and field conditions.
As much as possible, field observations should be applied to confirm the information obtained from
interviews.
2.2 Organization structure
A National Technical Team comprising experts from FRA – Nepal and Department of Forest Research and
Survey (DFRS) in close collaboration with REDD- Forestry and Climate Change Cell, Department of
National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC), Department of Plant Resources (DPR), Department of
Forests (DoF) and Department of Soil Conservation and Watershed Management (DSCWM) will supervise,
coordinate and monitor the national inventory at nationalized level. This is done by:
1) Organizing national level sharing workshop as regards National Inventory Field Manual;
2) Analysis of sampling design, variables and definitions;
3) Formation of field crews;
4) Capacity building for field crews;
5) Organizing and planning fieldwork, in particular mobilization and preparation of necessary resources
and equipment, such as vehicles, and allocation of tracts by field crews;
6) Monitoring and supervising fieldwork, including financial, technical and logistic support to field
crews, in order to ensure data quality and homogeneity among field crews;
7) Controlling and validating field forms;
8) Controlling data and evaluating its quality;
9) Compiling databases; and
10) Reporting and disseminating results.
2.3 Field crew composition
National forest inventory will be executed by ten full time field crews. A forest inventory field crew, taking
into account the amount of information to be collected and the tasks of each individual, is composed by five
members. Each field crew consists of the crew leader, one assistant to crew leader, two measurement
assistants with forestry expertise and a biodiversity specialist with botanical expertise is hired and trained
prior to start of the inventory work. Additional persons for example drivers, a cook and local helpers may
be included to improve performance of the field crews when conditions require greater resources. It is
desirable that some in the field as Local Resource Person (LRP) are hired and act as guides in the field. All
the crew members should be experienced with standard forestry practices and participatory interview
techniques to collect socio-economic data from local people.
Training of the crews on the survey methodology should be undertaken at the beginning of the fieldwork in
theoretical and practical sessions where techniques of different forest and tree measurements, tally of data
and techniques of interviews will be explained and practiced. The responsibilities of each crew member
must be clearly defined and their tasks are proposed as follows:
A. Responsibility of the crew leader will:
The crew leader is responsible for organizing all the phases of the fieldwork, from the preparation to the data
collection. He/she has the responsibility of contacting and maintaining good associations with the
community and the informants and has a good overview of the progress achieved in the fieldwork. He/she
will specifically:
1) Coordinate and plan the measurements and provides the assistants with specific instructions
regarding inventory actions and practical arrangements;
2) Prepare the fieldwork , prepare field forms and maps;
3) Administer the location of tracts and plots;
4) Plan the work division for the crew;
5) Contact local forestry officers, authorities and the community and request their assistance to contact
the local people, identify informants, guides and workers;
6) Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) of measurements and verification of their
correspondence to the instructions as per the field manual;
7) Take care of all the safety instructions while executing inventory in the field;
8) Organize meetings after fieldwork in order to sum up daily activities;
9) Take care of logistics of the crew by organizing and obtaining information on accommodation
facilities, recruiting local workers, organizing access to the tracts;
10) Take care of financial matters as per the financial and administrative guideline of FRA – Nepal;
11) Conduct interview and discussion with local informants and local people;
12) Ensure that field forms are correctly filled. in and that collected data are reliable.
B. Responsibility of the assistant crew leader will:
1) Record and delineate both plot and forest stand – specific characteristics;
2) Properly fill the tally sheets;
3) Compile a sketch drawing by locating the stand border(s) with the numbered location points and
possible inflection points and by numbering the forest stands within the CCSP;
4) Take care of all tally tree and sample tree assessment;
5) Assist a biodiversity specialists, as per necessity;
6) Ensure that the equipment of the crew is always complete and operational before, during and after
the field measurement and take care of all equipments;
7) Supervise and orient the workers;
8) Take pictures of the field activities for the documentation purpose;
9) Assist crew leader on QA/QC of measurements and verification of their correspondence.
C. Responsibility of the forest measurement assistant will:
1) Delineate boundary of Concentric Circular Sample Plot (CCSP) and its sub-plots by using vertex IV
and Transponder T3 with support of local helpers;
2) Distinguish all the tallied trees, sampled trees and their characteristics as per their different diameter
threshold size within the CCSP according to the field manual;
3) Measure diameter of each tallied tree within the CCSP as per the standard forestry practices;
4) Measure height of each sampled tree by using vertex IV and Transponder T3 within CCSP;
5) Obtain position of each tree through horizontal distance and bearing measurement;
6) Determine crown cover density at five points within CCSP i.e. at the plot center and at the four
cardinal points 20 meters apart from a plot center, using a spherical densitometer;
7) Quantify shrubs, saplings and seedlings within four sub-plots of each CCSP as per the instruction
given by field manual;
8) Measure dead wood (i.e., fallen stems, stem fragments and large branch fragments) from the plot
with a radius of 10m by deterring tip and base diameter along with the total length;
9) Assist biodiversity specialist to organize social survey and discussion, as per necessity.
D. Responsibility of the biodiversity specialist will:
1) Collect biodiversity information’s (both plant and animal) as per the instructions provided by the
manual;
2) Identify the plant/wildlife species with support from local helpers;
3) Apply different approaches to collect biodiversity information;
4) Assist to organize the discussion at local level;
5) Gather data’s on wildlife, NTFP and ToF by applying semi-structured questionnaire;
6) Picture documentation of unidentified plants/wildlife during the survey;
7) Estimate measurable soil characteristics (for example., soil depth, soil texture and proportion of
coarse fractions) as per necessity with support from local helpers as per the instructions provided by
the field manual;
8) Collect samples of organic layer, surface soil and deeper soil layers from a sub-sample/sampling
point of plot as per necessity with support from local helpers.
E. Responsibility of the local helpers will:
1) Help to take field measurements (for example., diameter, distance, height and soil etc);
2) Open ways to facilitate access and visibility to technicians;
3) Provide the common/local name of forest species, NTFP, vascular plants and wildlife’s;
4) Inform about access to the tract;
5) Excavate soil pits at four cardinal directions for assessing soil depth and soil profiles;
6) Collect soil samples from different sampling points within CCSP as per the instruction given by
biodiversity specialist;
7) Provide information about the forest uses and management;
8) Assist to organize discussion at local level by contacting local authorities and community;
9) Carry the equipments and support on logistic matter.
2.4 Preparatory measures prior to fieldwork
The GPS-based approaching of the target cluster and positioning of the plots within it can be supported
using topographic maps and satellite images produced by the GIS specialists of the FRA project. Before
going in the field, the expert provides the crew leaders with the following set of printed material:
1) Each field crew, through its leader, should start its work by contacting staff of the local forestry
services in charge of the area where the tracts are located.
2) The Technical Unit of the project will prepare and print, for each crew, the necessary field forms to
cover the tracts assigned to it. Nine field forms, of one or more pages, are needed for each tract.
3) A map for planning the shortest accessible route from camp or other starting point to the cluster.
Printed topographic map in the scale of 1:250 000 for determining car tracks and walking paths.
Clusters with numbered plots printed on the map.
4) A printed copy of the topographic map in the scale of 1:25 000 for specifying the more accurate
location of the target cluster with plots. The cluster with plots and coordinates (latitude and
longitude, and the coordinates in the WGS UTM44 N system) printed on the map.
5) A satellite image in the scale of 1:5 000 with the target cluster and plots.
6) A sketch drawing sheet with printed cluster and plot identification parameters for recording
information needed for documentation purposes and localisation of the plot at the time of
remeasurement, for instance. File names of plot wise taken digital photographs are also written in the
sheet.
7) The condition of the inventory equipments is also verified prior to field work and missing or
damaged items are replaced with new or fixed tools. A field crew-wise determined list of inventory
equipments is given in Annex I.
3 FIELD SAMPLING DESIGN
3.1 Cluster design
Cluster is the group of sample plots. Cluster sampling design is used when the population can be divided to
separate groups. In forest inventory these are typically groups of sample plots located near each other or
groups of trees located near each other. In the cluster design, the clusters are the basic sampling units. The
usefulness of cluster design is based on cost efficiency. In a forest inventory a cluster design will reduce
walking distance in forest. Stratified systematic sampling design can be used throughout the country. There
are 6 sample plots per one cluster depending on the design. Two-phase cluster sampling method is applied.
At the first-phase, a grid of 4 km by 4 km has been established, and at each grid point/knot a cluster of 6
plots is to be located. The plots are positioned along two parallel lines in North South direction, 300 m apart
from each other. On two lines the distance between plots is 150 meters (Figure 1).
Figure 1. One cluster, belonging to a sub-sample of the first-phase clusters selected in the second-phase to
be measured in the field, consist of six basic sampling units, i.e. sample plots.
3.2 Plot design
Nepal is a diverse country with complex geomorphology, landform and climate with a short span in width.
About three quarters of the Country’s topography is rugged and fragile. In the case of inventories of natural
forests where trees with respect to wide variety of size, age and species are present, it is recommended that
Concentric Circular Sample Plots (CCSPs) be used for tallying trees (see e.g., van Laar and Akça1997). In
addition to that, CCSP is easy to locate because it needs only one single point as plot centre and has less
edge effect as compared to square/rectangular plot so that border line tree is easily recognized . Likewise
because of the rugged and fragile topography of the country, CCSP is at all times easy to locate as compared
to square and rectangular plots. The circles of a CCSP with different radii and diameter thresholds,
respectively, are centred at the same point. The outermost plot is used for tallying the thickest trees, whereas
inner plots are used for measuring trees belonging into smaller size classes, respectively. Every single plot is
considered as a permanent plot. The CCSP to be applied in the NFI consists of four circular plots as follows
(see Figure 2A):
Option 1
-
from the plot with the radius (r1) of 20 m (area: 1256.6 m2) all big-size trees with diameter at breast
height greater than or equal to 30.1 cm are measured;
-
from the second largest plot with the radius (r2) of 15 m (area: 706.9 m2) trees with diameter at
breast height from 20.1 to 30.0 cm are measured;
-
from the third largest plot with the radius (r3) of 10 m (area: 314.3 m2) trees with diameter at breast
height from 10.1 to 20.0 cm are measured; and
-
from the plot with the radius (r4) of 5 m (area: 78.6 m2) trees with diameter at breast height from 5.0
to 10 cm are measured.
(Source: Modified plot design with different radii and diameter thresholds from National Forest
Inventory, 1990)
Option 2
As an option, the following plot design with different radii and diameter thresholds is proposed for the
National Forest Inventory 2010.
-
from the plot with the radius of 20 m (area: 1256.6 m2) all big-size trees with diameter at breast
height greater than or equal to 40 cm are measured;
-
from the second largest plot with the radius of 15 m (area: 706.9 m2) trees with diameter at breast
from 25.0 to 39.9 cm are measured;
-
from the third largest plot with the radius of 10 m (area: 314.2 m2) trees with diameter at breast from
12.0 to 24.9 cm are measured; and
-
from the plot with the radius of 5 m (area: 78.5 m2) trees with diameter at breast from 5.0 to 11.9 cm
are measured.
(Source: Draft Field Manual for the Inventory 2010)
The both plot design with different radii and diameter thresholds have certain weakness and strength. The
option 1 with the stated diameter threshold by means of square plot was applied during National Forest
Inventory 1990. Likewise option 2 with the stated diameter threshold by means of CCSP was applied during
district level inventories (i.e. on Kailai and Kanchanpur districts etc). Since the field manual is in testing
phase, the both designs are under meditation and the best one with the sound statistical validation will be
adopted for the National Forest Inventory 2010.
On the CCSP the tree positions are obtained through bearing and distance measurements (Figure
2B).Seedlings and saplings (diameter at breast height less than 5.0 cm) and shrubs are measured from four
subplots with the radius of 2 m (area: 12.6 m2) that are located 10 metres from the centre of the CCSP
(Figure 2A) in the four cardinal directions (N, E, S and W), respectively. Height and diameter of shrubs,
seedlings and saplings are recommended to measure individually. Individual species having height of h ≤
1.3 m is considered as regeneration and counting only.
Information on vascular plants/non woody plants is collected from four rectangular plots located to the
cardinal points (N, E, S and W) 5 metres apart from the plot centre (Figure 2A). Dead and decaying wood
material, on the contrary, will be assessed from the plot with the radius of 10 m. Soil depth is assessed from
the soil pit(s) located outside the sample plots (Figure 2A). The data are recorded using field computers, if
available. Otherwise, data are manually recorded in the tally sheets
A
B
Figure 2. Layout of the concentric circular sample plot (CCSP) (A) and determination of tree positions
based on the bearing and distance measurements (B).
4 INSTRUCTIONS FOR DATA COLLECTION IN THE FIELD
4.1 Locating sample plots in the field
The sample plots are positioned with a GPS-device. The procedure to use the GPS will be as follows:
1) Plan the route to the plot in the camp. If using car in approaching, mark the point where to leave the
car in the GPS as a waypoint. Mark also the other possible waypoints, e.g. a point where to leave the
trail.
2) Use the map to navigate to the point where to leave the car. Check the point with the GPS.
3) To begin with always navigate to the first plot of each cluster using the map and GPS. The starting
sample plot (the most south-western and north-eastern ones) will be considered as first plots. If the
first plot is non-reachable than navigate to the second plot successively.
4) When arriving to the plot, select an open point where the GPS works well. Collect GPS data 0.5–1
min. The GPS will average the collected data, calculate the current location and display the distance
and bearing to the plot centre.
5) Use the bussol and tape to go exactly to the plot centre.
If the GPS is not functioning, use of traditional maps for example; topographical maps and tape measuring
must be applied. After the plot centre has been reach, it is immediately marked using a 20 cm high PVC pipe
or aluminium structural angle or steel rod. The marking in the center of the plots has been proved to be very
valuable in annual monitoring as GPS alone could give a few meters of difference in locating the centre of
the permanent plot. Furthermore, a natural landmark is determined and located nearby the plot to help the
localisation of the plot centre at the time of remeasurement. Appropriate landmarks are large stones,
boulders and large trees, for instance. The distance between the natural landmarks from the plot centre
should not be more than 25 metres, if possible. Finally, a sketch drawing (Field form 1) is compiled for
identifying locations of the landmark and plot centre. The distance and bearing from the plot centre to the
landmark is also recorded on the sketch drawing.
4.2 Collection of attributes describing plots and forest stands
4.2.1 Plot variables
General data are collected for identifying the measurement events by sampling units, i.e. clustered sample
plots (Field form 2). These data are entered always when the measurement of a new sample plot is started.
Soil technician
Biodiversity specialist in charge of the collection of soil samples and determination of assessable soil
characteristics is identified by writing his/her full last name and the initials of the first names.
District
Number of the district where the plot is located. District number will be post-determined in the office, i.e.
obtained from the GIS-based system. Likewise, the following information does have to be incorporated in
the tally sheets during field work;
Village Development Committee (VDC);
Name of VDC where the plot is located;
Management Regimes
Number of the management regime where the plot is located. Currently there are following management
regimes in Nepal:
1. Private forest: Forest area managed under Private Forest rules;
2. National forest/Government Managed Forest: Forest area managed under Forest Act;
3. Protected area: Forest areas managed by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife
Conservation Act;
4. Community forest: Forest area managed under Community Forest rules;
5. Religious forest: Forest area managed under Religious Forest rules;
6. Collaborative forest: Forest area managed under Collaborative Forest rules;
7. Leasehold forest: Forest area managed under Leasehold Forest rules;
8. Buffer Zone (BZ) forest: Forest area managed under Buffer Zone rules;
9. Buffer Zone Community forest: Forest area managed under BZ community forest rule.
Name of forest area whare the plot is located;
Sampling stratum (still need to be addressed?)
Nepal is divided into five sampling stratum respective to the geo-physiographic zones of Nepal. Sampling
stratum will be post-numbered in the office.
Cluster
Clusters are pre-indexed. Indices consist of two numbers – the first indicates the column number (from West
to East) and the second indicates the row number (from South to North). Numbered clusters are identified on
the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Plots within clusters are pre-numbered. Numbers of the sample plots are printed on the printouts of satellite
images and topographic maps.
Coordinates
The pre-determined coordinates of plot centres within a cluster are stored in the GPS -device that determines
the geographic coordinates of latitude and longitude in the WGS84 projection system. The coordinates of the
plot centre are recorded, once the plot centre has been placed and marked in the field, i.e. the coordinates of
the GPS-device fit to the plot coordinates printed on the index map.
Lat
Latitude in degrees.
Long
Longitude in degrees.
E
Easting in metres according to the UTM zone (44 or 45)
N
Northing in metres according to the UTM zone (44 or 45)
Positioning method
Usually, GPS is used for positioning the plots. In case of the manual location a topographic map
measurement is used instead. While using topographical maps mention its number in the tally sheets.
1
Positioned with GPS
2
Positioned with a map
Date
Date of the measurement day according to English calendar in the form of ‘day/month/year’, i.e. dd/mm/yyyy
(e.g., 23/10/2010).
Crew leader
Crew leader is identified by writing his/her full last name and the initials of the first names.
Reachability 1
Reachability of the plot determined in the office as a part of the first-phase sampling. Value for the variable
determined in the office is indicated in the field form. Plot is regarded as non-reachable if it is in area where
is extremely difficult for a man to go without assisting equipment.
0
Plot non-reachable
1
Plot reachable
Land use class 1
Determined in the office as a part of the first-phase sampling. FAO-FRA land use class developed for the
FAO Global Forest Resource Assessment. According to the FRA-2005 guide lines, land occupied by trees
and woody plants is divided into two classes ‘forest land’ and ‘other wooded land’ based on the tree height
characteristics and crown cover in maturity. Land filling neither the forests nor the other wooded land
criteria is classified into ‘other land’.
FRA land use class is registered for both the sample point stands and for the secondary plot stands. Note that
FRA stands must fulfil the minimum size and width criteria of the FAO definitions. If there has been a
cutting, the removed trees must be considered in the classification.
1
Forest land. The crown cover of the stand exceeds 10 % as it grows towards maturity. Trees are able
to reach the height of 5 meters. The size and minimum width of the forest stand must be greater than
or equal to 0.5 hectares and 20 m, respectively.
2
Other wooded land. In maturity the height of trees is at least 5 meters and crown cover 5–10 %, or
the crown cover of trees and shrubs exceeds 10 %. Shrubs are usually more than 0.5 m and less than
5 m high multi-perennial, usually multi-stemmed woody plants. Other wooded land must exceed 0.5
hectares in size and 20 meters in width.
3
Shrub land I. Shrub vegetation with the mean height less than 5 metres and at least 3 metres. Shrub
vegetation may also include broadleaved hardwood regeneration.
4
Shrub land II. Shrub vegetation with the mean height less than 3 metres. Shrub vegetation may also
include broadleaved hardwood regeneration.
5
Other land with tree cover. In the FRA system this is a sub-class of class 3, filling the minimum
criteria for growing stock and size, e.g. wooded yards and pastures, etc.
6
Agricultural land with tree cover, filling the minimum criteria for growing stock and size, e.g.
agroforestry systems.
7
Agricultural land without tree cover.
8
Built-up land with tree cover, filling the minimum criteria for growing stock and size, e.g. parks.
9
Built-up land without tree cover, e.g. roads and buildings.
10 Sand, gravel and boulders. Found from river banks. Usually open but also a bush type of vegetation
may occur in the area.
11 Rock.
12 Grassland. Area covered by herbaceous plants and grasses.
13 Perpetual snow and ice.
14 Scrubland. is a plant community characterized by vegetation dominated by shrubs in the thickest
form, often also including grasses, herbs, and geophytes. Scrubland may either occur naturally or be the
result of human activity. They are mainly distributed in the himalayan and trans-himalayan regions of
Nepal. It may be the mature vegetation type in a particular region and remain stable over time, or a
transitional community that occurs temporarily as the result of a disturbance, such as fire. A stable state
may be maintained by regular natural disturbance such as fire or browsing.
15 Other land. Land not included into the classes 1–14. No minimum criteria for the size.
Bearing to nearest settlement
Bearing from the centre of CCSP to the nearest human settlement. Recoding unit is a degree (1/360). The
variable is needed for the interpretation of Remote Sensing (RS) data.
Distance to nearest settlement
Distance from the centre of CCSP to the nearest human settlement. If the settlement is within the CCSP, the
distance is measured in 1 m accuracy. If the distance is between 20 and 50 m, 5 m accuracy is enough. For
the distances between 50 m and 99 m, 10 m accuracy is used. If the distance is 100 m or more, write 99
indicating that the distance measure is to be determined from the satellite imagery. The variable is needed
for the interpretation of Remote Sensing (RS) data.
Bearing to other land use class
Bearing from the centre of CCSP to the nearest border between forest and other land use class. Recording
unit is a degree (1/360). The variable is needed for the interpretation of Remote Sensing (RS) data.
Distance to other land use class
If the border between forest and other land use class is within the CCSP, the distance is measured in 1 m
accuracy. If the distance is between 20 and 50 m, 5 m accuracy is enough. For the distances between 50 m
and 99 m, 10 meter accuracy is used. If the distance is 100 m or more, write 99 indicating that the distance
measure is to be determined from the satellite imagery. The variable is needed for the interpretation of
Remote Sensing (RS) data.
Aspect
Direction of the main gradient of the slope. It is determined at the plot centre to the direction of the main
gradient (downhill) and taking a compass reading in degrees. For flat land (slope=0) write 0.
Slope
Average slope gradient at plot centre determined at the plot centre by shooting uphill and downhill with the
hypsometer. The slope gradient is the average of the two readings. The assessment is limited to the plot area,
i.e. the radius used for the observation equals to that applied for the measurement of largest trees on the
concentric circular sample plot.
Altitude
Altitude of the plot above the mean sea level in meters. Altitudes at the plot centres, respectively, will be
post-determined at the office.
Macro topography
Note the location of the plot according to the following classification:
1
Valley
2
Ridge
3
Upper part of the slope
4
Middle part of the slope
5
Lower part of the slope
6
Plain
4.2.2 Stand delineation
Stand delineation measurements are required for estimating areas respective to different forest stands (e.g.,
natural forest stand and planted forest stand) or land use classes within the sample plot (Field form 2).
Borders of the forest stand are determined by bearing and distance measurements taken from the plot centre
to the location and inflection points of the border determined in the field. The location and inflection points
indicating the location of the borders(s) are marked with wooden sticks prior to the measurements of stand
and tree characteristics.
Compile a sketch drawing by locating the stand border(s) with the numbered location points and possible
inflection points and by numbering the forest stands within the CCSP (Field form 1). A minimum number of
two point measurements are needed to determine a straight stand border intersecting the CCSP as illustrated
in Figure 3A.
In the case of multi-border situation, all location and inflection points along each individual border are
denoted by forest stands or areas of different land use classes. Thus, when recording border specific
combinations of border and inflection points, it may happen that one individual point becomes denoted more
than once. For instance, the borders between the three forest stands in Figure 3B are identified with respect
to the three forest stands by denoting, separately, the bearing and distance measurements for the three
combinations of border points (border 1/forest stand 1: points 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6; border 2/ forest stand 2: points
1–5; and border 3/forest stand 3: points 6, 4 and 5).
A
B
Figure 3. Determination of a straight stand border with two location point measurements (A) and an
example of multiborder situation, i.e. three forest stands delineating one CCSP (B). The border between the
two forest stands in Figure 3A is determined by bearing (α1 and α2) and distance (d1 and d2) measurements
taken from the plot centre to the two location points of the border, respectively. The borders in Figure 3B, on
the contrary, are identified with respect to the three forest stands by denoting the bearing and distance
measurements for the three combinations of border points (border 1/forest stand 1: points 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6;
border 2/ forest stand 2: points 1–5; and border 3/forest stand 3: points 6, 4 and 5).
Cluster
Clusters are pre-indexed. Indices consist of two numbers – the first indicates the column number (from West
to East) and the second indicates the row number (from South to North). Numbered clusters are identified on
the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Plots within clusters are pre-numbered. Numbers of the sample plots are printed on the printouts of satellite
images and topographic maps.
Border number
Borders intersecting the CCSP are numbered. The number of borders (~ record rows) is a sample plotspecific characteristic.
Bearing to stand border point
The bearing from the plot centre to the first stand border location point (see Figure 3). Recroding unit is a
degree (1/360). The number of bearing recordings varies and depends on the form and number of borders
intersecting the CCSP.
Distance to stand border point
The horizontal distance from the plot centre to the first stand border location point (see Figure 3). Recording
units are centimetres. The number of distance recordings varies and depends on the form and number of
borders intersecting the CCSP.
4.2.3 Stand description
On each plot measurements are started by defining and locating the land use classes of forest stands. A
forest stand, i.e. forest compartment, is a forest area that is homogenous in respect to administrative data,
forest use restrictions, site factors and characteristics of growing stock (Field form 2). (The stand
characterisation should describe the whole stand, not only the part where the plot is located.)
The plot area can be delineated into several forest stands as described in chapter 4.2.1. The forest stand
where the sample point, i.e. plot centre, is located is referred as the sample point stand, whereas the other
stands within the plot are considered as secondary stands of the plot.
Forest stand
Forest stands within a plot are numbered consecutively starting from 1. Number 1 is always given for the
forest stand at the centre of CCSP.
Reachability 2
Reachability of the forest stand determined in the field as a part of the second-phase sampling. For accepted
values see the variable ‘Reachability 1’ defined in chapter ‘4.2.1 Plot variables’.
Land use class 2
Land use class determined in the field as a part of the second-phase sampling. For accepted values see the
variable ‘Land use class 1’ defined in chapter ‘4.2.1 Plot variables’.
Soil depth
Soil depth is estimated by forest stands from soil pits or determined from bare bedrock outcrops. Soil pits
are located and excavated 1 m outside the plot edge in either of the cardinal or half-cardinal points (N, NE,
E, ..., NW). As soil distribution pattern is more or less same in plain area, two soil pits at West and East
direction is enough in the plain area and direction can be shift to North, South or other if the terrain
condition/standing tree does not permit to dig pit. However, in hilly terrain condition, pit must be
representative to each forest stand or at different land cover type. The soil sampling auger with a 1 m shaft
can also be used, if available, to measure the soil depth. However, soil depth is determined by forest stands
or land use classes demarcated within the sample plot. Classes according to the World Reference Base
(WRB) are as follows:
0
bare bedrock
1
soil depth 1–10 cm
2
soil depth 11–25 cm
3
soil depth 26–50 cm
4
soil depth 50–100 cm
5
soil depth over 100 cm.
Coarse fraction proportion
A penetration method is used to determine proportions of coarse fractions (stone and boulder proportion) in
surface layer. A steel rod ( 10 mm with markings at 10 cm intervals) is tried to push to the depth of 30 cm.
Altogether 5 pushes are carried out in systematically located places 12 metres apart from the central point of
the plot as designated in Figure 4, and the arithmetic mean of penetration depths is recorded. It is measured
with the reading accuracy of 1 cm.
Figure 4. Observation points for coarse fraction proportion 12 metres apart from the centre of the CCSP
Type of the organic layer
The type and thickness of the organic layer are defined by forest stands. The values are observed inside the
entire tree tally plot from 4 objectively selected points as demonstrated in Figure 5. Cornerwise placed
objectively selected points (observation points) from the centre of the CCSP, and the distance between the
centre of the CCSP and the corner of the observation point is 7 meters.
0 Missing. Organic layer missing or very thin (< 1 cm).
1 Rawhumus. Formed from the dead vegetation growing on mineral soils, a “felt” layer clearly
distinctive from the mineral soil.
2 Humus. Typically thin, lower part mixed with mineral soil, but in the upper part there is a clear
decomposed dead vegetation layer under the litter fall.
3 Mull. Organic layer fully mixed with mineral soil, between the litter and mineral soil. Occurs on the
most rich sites and abandoned agricultural land.
4 Peat. Formed from peat land vegetation, mostly mosses. Composition stage varies in different layers.
If there is a layer of rawhumus above the peat layer, the organic layer is regarded as peat if the peat
layer is more than 50 % of the total thickness of the organic layer, otherwise raw humus.
Thickness of the organic layer
The thickness of the organic layer is defined in the same points as the type of the organic layer (Figure 5). It
is measured with the reading accuracy of 1 cm. If the forest stand is more than 1 then 3 measurements of
type and thickness of organic layer need to be measured in each forest stand.
Soil texture
Estimate for the soil texture is obtained from the surface soil, i.e. 10 to 30 centimetres below the ground
level, using soil pits excavated for soil depth measurements. Estimates are determined by forest stands using
the classification as follows:
1
Boulders. Grain size > 200 mm
2
Rocky sand. Sand mixed with stones (60 – 200 mm)
3
Sand
4
Loamy sand
5
Sandy loam
6
Loam
7
Silt loam
8
Clay loam
9
Sandy clay loam
10 Silty clay loam
11 Sandy clay
12 Silty clay
13 Clay
For the definitions of soil texture classes 3 to 13 and for their estimation in the field conditions see the
instructions given in Appendix II. Note that the soil sample used for feeling the constituents of soil must be
in a moist to weak wet state. Gravel and other constituents > 2 mm must be removed.
Figure 5. Observation points for the type and thickness of organic layer 7 metres apart from the centre of
the CCSP
Main site type
The main site type is used to classify the forest land into mineral soils, peatlands and wetlands. The peatland
main types are ferns, swamps and open bogs. The stand is deemed as peatland, if the organic layer is peat.
Otherwise, the main site type is mineral soil. The 2003 National Wetland Policy of Nepal denotes wetlands
as swampy areas with flowing or stagnant fresh or salt water that are natural or man-made, or permanent or
temporary (minimum 3 months). They include marshy lands, riverine floodplains, lakes, ponds, water
storage areas and agricultural lands.
1
Mineral soils
2
Peatlands
3
Wetlands
Forest Type
Forest stands within the sample plot are classified into forest types following definitions given in Annex III.
Origin
Formation of the forest stand used to determine whether the forest stand where the plot is situated was born
by natural regeneration or was established by planting.
1 Naturally regenerated forest
2 Planted forest
3 Enrichment plantation.
Enrichment planting is such a method of silvicultural management that rehabilitate poorly stocked
logged-over forest without eliminating the existing individuals. It is essentially a process of
supplementing the natural regeneration with seedlings of commercial species. Usually indigenous
species are planted in enrichment planting. It is followed for the degraded patches of the forests for
successfully rehabilitation with the species.
Crown cover
The percent of a fixed area covered by the crown of an individual plant species or delimited by the vertical
projection of its outermost perimeter; small openings in the crown are included. Crown cover is determined
by estimating or measuring the area of ground covered by tree canopies, ignoring overlap and gaps within
individual canopies. The spherical densitometer is used to measure crown cover density (see annex VII).
Crown cover is the percentage (0–99 %) obtained for the horizontal projection of the tree crowns covering
the area of the sample plot. If a plot is divided in several stands, crown cover is estimated for each stand.
Crown cover measurements are implemented at five points on the plot, i.e. at the plot centre and at the
cardinal points (N, E, S and W) 20 meters apart from the plot centre, using a spherical densitometer. The
plot wise crown cover percentages are calculated in the office based on the field measured counts (5/plot).
Figure 6. Square grid on the convex mirror of the spherical densitometer. The 9 innermost grid points
denoted by the red circles are used for counting the area ‘not occupied by canopy’.
Development status
Developmental status refers to the average size of trees belonging to the dominant tree layer on the forest
stand where the plot locates.
1
Seedling and Sapling stand. Stands comprised of trees with diameter at breast height less than 12.5
cm and not qualified as pole timber or saw timber.
2
Pole timber stand. A stand with majority of basal area in trees of 12.5–25 cm by diameter at breast
height.
3
Small saw timber stand. A stand with majority of basal area in trees of 25–50 cm by diameter at
breast height.
4
Large saw timber stand. A stand with majority of basal area in trees of 50 cm or more by diameter
at breast height.
4.2.4 Non-Timber Forest Products
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps .
Plot
Sample plots within clusters are pre-numbered. Numbers of the sample plots are printed on the printouts of
satellite images and topographic maps.
NTFP
Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are a collection of biological resources derived from both natural and
managed forests and other wooded areas (Peters, 1996). Examples include a variety of fruits, nuts, seeds,
oils, spices, resins, gums, medicinal plants and many more products specific to the particular areas from
which they originate. NTFP species existing on the plot (Field form 2). For species codes see a tentative list
of NTFPs in Annex IV. If no NTPFs observed, write ‘NA’.
The number of species-specific recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to another and
equals to the number of NTPFs observed in the sample plot.
Abundance of NTFP
Abundance of NTFP species is determined according to the quantitative classification which is as follows:
0
Not determinable: No NTPFs observed.
1
Abundant: > 10 individuals within a CCSP
2
Fair: 4 – 10 individuals within a CCSP
3
Sparse: < 4 individuals within a CCSP
Usage of NTFP
1
Animal beddings. Animal bedding provided by leaves and branches and other plant parts.
2
Beverages. Plant parts (e.g., Fruit, seeds, leaf) used as beverages.
3
Dying/tanning. Plant material (bark and leaves) providing tannins and other plant parts (especially
leaves and fruits) used as colorants.
4
Exudates. Substances such as gums (water soluble), resins (water insoluble) and latex (milky or
clear juice), released from plants by exudation.
5
Fibre and fibre yielding. Whole plant or part (mainly bark) used for extracting fibres.
6
Fodder. Animal and bee fodder provided by leaves, fruits, flowers, etc.
7
Fruits and nuts. Plant fruit and nuts produced are useful for the edible purpose.
8
Fumitory and masticatory materials. Plant parts having smoke or chew value for pleasure or
exhilaration.
9
Insecticides and herbicides. Plant and its parts (leaf, bark, seed, flower, fruit, etc.) used as
insecticide as well as herbicides.
10
Legumes or pulses. Fruit and seeds of some legume plants can be used as food and vegetables.
11
Medicinal plants. Medicinal plants (e.g., leaves, bark, roots, fruit, seeds) used in traditional
medicine and/or for pharmaceutical companies.
12
Seeds. Seeds collected for regeneration purposes.
13
Soap/cosmetics. Aromatic plants providing essential (volatile) oils and other products used for
cosmetic purposes such as soaps, perfumes.
14
Spices, condiments and other flavorings. Plant parts (e.g., flower, fruits, seeds, barks, roots) used
for the spices as well as for flavourings.
15
Starches and cellulose products. Plant parts providing starches (e.g., yam) and other cellulose
products (e.g., paper).
16
Vegetable oils and fats. Vegetable oils (other than essential oils) extracted from the plant part,
especially from the seeds.
17
Vegetables. Plant parts (e.g., Leaf, fruit, seed, bulbs) used as vegetables.
18
Other plant products (miscellaneous). To be specified/categorised as follows.
19
Utensils, handicrafts. Non wood products.
20
Construction material. Includes thatch, bamboo, rattan, wrapping, leaves and fibres.
21
Ornamentals. Entire plants (e.g., orchids) and parts of plants (e.g., pots made from roots) used for
ornamental purposes.
22
23
Biofuel. Diesel produced from the plant parts, especially from seed.
Support for climber (Thankro). Plants (whole or part) used as a support material for the climber in
agricultural land.
24
Living animals. Mainly vertebrates such as mammals, birds, reptiles kept/bought as pets.
25
Honey, beeswax. Products provided by bees.
26
Bush meat. Meat provided by vertebrates, mainly mammals and birds.
27
Other edible animal products. Mainly edible invertebrates such as insects (e.g., caterpillars) and
other “secondary” products of animals (e.g., eggs, nests).
28
Hides, skins for trophies. Hide and skin of animals used for various purposes.
29
Medicines from animals. Entire animals or parts of animals such as various organs used for
medicinal purposes.
30
Dying/tanning. Entire animals or parts of animals such as various organs used as colorants
32
Tools. Bones used as tools.
33
Ornaments. Wildlife parts used for ornamental purpose.
34
Religious. Wildlife parts used for religious purpose.
The number of species-specific usage recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to another.
Importance of NTFP
Importance of NTFP species is determined on the basis of local uses according to the qualitative
classification based on the focus group discussion which is as follows:
NA
Not applicable. No NTPFs observed.
H
Products of high importance.
M
Products of medium importance.
L
Products of low importance.
The number of species-specific importance recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to
another.
4.2.5 Disturbances
Disturbance is a temporary change in average environmental conditions that causes a pronounced change in
an ecosystem. Outside disturbance forces often act quickly and with great effect. Human induced or natural
disturbances that have affected the stand structure and the natural processes are registered on a separate
sheet (Field form 3). For each observed disturbance the cause of disturbance and intensity are registered.
The disturbances should be registered in the sequence of intensity, starting by the disturbance that has most
effect on the plot.
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Sample plots within clusters are pre-numbered. Numbers of the sample plots are printed on the printouts of
satellite images and topographic maps.
Cause of disturbance
A disturbance affecting the development of trees on the plot. If no disturbances observed, write ‘ND’.
1 ND No disturbances.
2 LS Landslide.
3 LG Livestock grazing. Presence of the hoof-marks and dung of the cattle, broken tops of the
seedlings and saplings, trampling signs, disturbed forest litter within the entire CCSP.
4 WG Wildlife grazing. Presence of the hoof-marks and dung of the wildlife, broken tops of the
seedlings and saplings, trampling signs, disturbed forest litter within the entire CCSP caused by
wildlife.
5 LO Lopping. Cutting of side branches of trees for fodder, etc. The intensity of lopping is estimated
on the basis of the number of the lopped trees (N/plot) that fall within the plot radius used for the
measurement of largest trees on the concentric circular sample plot.
6 LP Litter picking/collection. A percentage cover (0–100%) estimated on the basis of ocular
observation. Collection intensity of the fallen leaves of the plants is assessed within the entire
CCSP.
7 BC Bush cutting. A percentage cover (0–100%) of the overall signs indicating the collection of
seedlings of tree species and others plants within the entire CCSP.
8 FF Forest fires. A percentage cover (0–100%) of the overall signs indicating forest fire originated
damages within the entire CCSP.
9 EN Encroachment. Encroachment of forest land for cultivation and plantation areas.
10 RT Resin tapping. Resin tapping trees can be identified by cuts made in the boles of trees (normally
pines) so as to enable the resin to ooze out.
11 LC Lathra cutting. Cutting of saplings and pole-sized stems. The intensity of Lathra cutting is
estimated on the basis of the number of stumps present that fall within the plot radius used for
the measurement of largest trees on the concentric circular sample plot.
12 TC Tree cutting. Targeted to trees with diameter at breast height > 25 cm. The intensity of tree
cutting is estimated on the basis of the number of stumps present that fall within the plot radius
used for the measurement of largest trees on the concentric circular sample plot.
The number of disturbance recordings (~ record rows) vary from one sample plot to another and equals to
the number of them observed in the sample plot.
Intensity of disturbance
0
No disturbances.
1
Minor disturbances. With only little or no effect on trees and regeneration.
2
Medium disturbances. With some effect on the trees and regeneration.
3
Strong disturbances. With remarkable effect on the trees and regeneration.
The number of recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to another and equals to the number
of disturbances observed in the sample plot.
4.3 Collection of tree-level characteristics
4.3.1 Definitions for tree variables
Breast height: A fixed height of 1.3 metres above the ground level. If the ground level cannot be defined,
the breast height is determined from the seeding point.
Broken tree: A broken tree may be either living tree or dead tree. If more than 50 % of the original volume
is in the standing part and this part does not have any living branches it is regarded as standing dead tree. If
the broken part is more than 50 % of the original volume and it has not been harvested, the tree is regarded
as lying dead tree. If the broken part (more than 50 % of the original volume) has been removed the tree is a
stump and thus not tallied. A broken standing dead tree is regarded either as commercial dead tree or useless
dead tree according to the decaying stage of the standing part. A broken lying dead tree is classified
accordingly using the lying part of the stem.
Commercial dead tree: A dead tree is regarded as commercial dead tree if its wood is still useful for
timber, firewood. Even very small trees or those broken in several pieces are regarded as commercial dead
trees if they fill the criterion above.
Non-commercial dead tree: A dead tree is regarded as non-commercial dead tree if its wood is not useful
for timber and firewood purposes etc.
Dead tree: A tree is regarded as dead if it does not have any living branches. Trees that are alive but so
badly damaged that they cannot grow until the next growing season (e.g., trees damaged by storm) are
regarded as dead trees.
Forked tree: A tree is forked, if the forking point is above breast height. If the forking point is below breast
height, each stem is regarded as a tree.
Ground level: Ground level is described as in Annex V.
Living tree: A living tree must have living branches and it must be able to survive until the next growing
season.
Sample tree: A tree selected for the measurement of additional variables that are often generalised to cover
the tally trees.
Seeding point: Seeding point is usually at the ground level. For trees growing on the top of a stone or old
stump the seeding point is determined as the point where the seed have started to grow (see Annex V).
Shrub: Shrubs are woody perennial plants, generally of more than 0.5 m and (usually) less than 5 m in
height on maturity and without a definite stem, i.e. they produce several shoots or trunks from the base. It
has several stems, none of which is dominant. When much-branched and dense, it may be called a bush.
These distinctions are not reliable, however; for example, under especially favourable environmental
conditions, some shrubs may grow to the size of an arborescence or even a small tree.
Sapling: Sapling is strong, young tree, the stem of which has normal branch development from the bottom
up. It has woody vegetation between 0.4 to 5.0 inch in diameter at breast height and between 2 to 10 feet
(0.61m to 3.05m) in height depending on the species.
Stump: Stumps indicate harvesting measures targeted towards living trees or standing dead trees. In the case
of lying dead trees, it is a result of removing more than 50 % of the volume (see above).
Stump height: Height of the top of a stump (or the upper most root collar) above the ground level. If no root
collars exist, stump height is 15 cm from the ground level.
Tally tree: A living tree within the plot fulfilling the diameter threshold with respective to the plot radius.
Tree: A tree is a perennial woody plant. It is most often defined as a woody plant that has many secondary
branches supported clear of the ground on a single main stem or trunk with clear apical dominance. A
minimum height specification at maturity is cited by some authors, varying from 3m to 6 m.
4.3.2 Measuring principles
Tree tallying starts always from the magnetic North. Trees are tallied in the clockwise order. The distance is
measured from plot centre to the diameter measurement point also for fallen and leaning trees. Distance is
always measured as a horizontal distance.
Diameters at breast height are measured in right-angle to the plot radius. The correct direction of the
measurement must be defined with specific care, and a stick determining the breast height (1.3 m) must
always be used for defining the correct measuring point. The breast height is marked with a waterproof pen
on the stem. For sample trees, the tree number is also written on the stem. These marks must, however, be
poorly visible, and removing epiphytic lichens on the stem and breaking branches must be avoided. Yet, the
epiphytic lichens growing on the stem are not included in the tree diameter.
For the sake of efficiency and data accuracy, only easily assessable characteristics are measured for tally
trees, whereas sample trees are sampled for obtaining variables that are difficult and tedious to measure.
Every 5th tallied tree is selected as a sample tree; the counting runs over clusters, sample plots and forest
stands. For the species not represented by any healthy sample trees, when determined after the systematic
sampling and inspected by forest stands, one additional sample tree respective to the forest stand is selected.
The additional sample trees should be representative to the tallied trees of the same species and forest stand.
However, all dead standing trees with broken top are measured for height from the ground level to the
breakage point.
Climbers with breast height diameter larger than 5 cm are registered for biomass estimation. Only species,
diameter and estimated length are registered for climbers.
4.3.3 Characteristics of tally trees
Tree number
Number one is given for the first tallied tree on each plot, and the numbering continues without interrupts to
the last tree of the plot (Field form 4). Stumps and dead standing trees are numbered along with living tally
trees.
Forest stand
Number of the forest stand where the tally tree grows. The number must equal to the numbering applied in
the stand description.
Bearing
The bearing from the plot centre to the middle of the stem at breast height. Recording unit is a degree
(1/360).
Distance
The horizontal distance from the plot centre to the centre of the tree trunk at breast height. Recording units
are metres with one decimal unit.
Species
Tree species is recorded by local name for each tallied tree on the sample plot. The list of species-specific
codes is presented in Annex VI. Species is also recorded for stumps, if possible.
Diameter
Diameter at breast height is measured at 1.3 m above the ground level for the standing tally trees. When the
ground level cannot be defined, the breast height is determined from the seeding point. Diameters at breast
height are recorded in centimetres with one decimal unit. If the trunk is deformed at breast height, the
diameter is measured from the nearest (above or below the breast height) well-formed point of the stem.
When the measuring point for diameter at breast height differs from 1.3 m, the measuring height is marked
at remarks (e.g., “dbh measured at the height of 1.72 m”). On circular type of sample plots the diameter
measuring with the calliper is implemented towards the plot centre as demonstrated in Figure 7.
A forked tree is recorded as one tree, if the tree is forked above the breast height, i.e. 1.3 m. If a tree is
forked below breast height, each fork is recorded as an individual tree. Diameter includes bark. If the bark is
missing, its estimated value is included in the recorded diameter of a living (or dead) tree. Exceptions
(allowed) to the standard measurement procedure of diameter at breast height are illustrated in Annex V.
The diameters of stumps are measured at the height of 15 cm above ground level and recorded into the
column for the variable ‘Diameter’. The diameter thresholds respective to the radii of the CCSP which are
used for the selection of living and dead tally trees are also applied to the selection of stumps.
Figure 7. Measurement of diameters at breast height of tally trees on circular sample plots using calipers.
Tree quality class
Tree quality is based on the present or prospective form, roughness and soundness of a tree. For a tree with
dbh 25 cm or larger, quality assessment is based on its present condition. For smaller trees the quality class
is based on their expected ability to reach saw timber size with respect to the quality at that age. Tree classes
are as follows:
1
High quality sound tree. An alive tree with good form and now or prospectively having a length
of at least 6 m in sound saw logs and not more than 4 percent of cull volume in the section from
the stump to the upper limit of saw log of merchantable quality.
2
Sound tree. A sound alive tree not qualified in the class 1. The tree must have now or
prospectively at least one 3 m section of saw log quality or two 1.8 m or longer saw log sections.
A log is considered as a saw log (merchantable) if the yield of lumber is 50 % or more of the
yield of a perfectly straight and sound saw log.
3
Cull tree. An alive tree that, because of poor form, roughness, injury or decay, does not now or in
the future yield logs of merchantable quality. Climbers are included into the class for cull trees.
Crown class
Determined by tall trees and depends on the size and condition of the crown of the tree and its position in
relation to other trees in the forest stand.
1
Dominant. A tree with a larger crown that the average size in or above the level of the
surrounding canopy and receiving full light from above and more than one side.
2
Co-dominant. A tree with a medium-sized crown in the level of the general canopy and
receiving full light from above and at least on side.
3
Intermediate. A tree with a smaller crown than the average, reaching the general level of the
canopy but not above it and receiving some direct light from above but little if any from the side.
4
Suppressed. A tree with a crown that is smaller than what is normal to a tree of this age and both.
Receiving little or no direct sunlight and showing signs of retarded growth resulting from the
competition of dominant trees.
5
Understory. A tree with a crown that is below the level of the general canopy layer. Receiving
little or no direct sunlight, but not showing signs of suppression or retarded growth. Such trees
may be tolerant to shade. Or saplings not yet seriously affected by the competition of other
vegetation.
6
Broken. A tree of which the top or trunk is cut or naturally broken.
7
Dead usable. A dead tree that can be used as fire wood, for instance.
8
Dead unusable. A tree is dead or it is expected that the tree will die during the growing season.
9
Stump.
10 Climber.
Sample tree
0
Tally tree.
1
Sample tree selected from among tally trees using systematic sampling.
2
Additional sample tree from among tally trees (e.g., species-specific median tree).
3
Additional sample tree that does not belong to the tallied trees within the concentric circular
sample plot (e.g., trees selected from the buffer zone of the concentric circular sample plot for
the determination of age and diameter increment, or trees having a broken top).
4.3.4 Characteristics of sample trees
Height
Total heights of sample trees are recorded in metres to one decimal place (e.g., 23.4 m). In the FRA, heights
are principally measured using a Vertex IV and Transponder T3 (see annex VII). In case of small trees a
measuring pole can also be used depending upon situation. Total height refers to the vertical distance from
ground to the tip of the tree.
For climbers the length from base to the point below 10 cm is estimated by eye. Usually the climbers are
around trees and the length of the climber is markedly higher that the height of the top. Dead lying climbers
are registered on the Dead Wood sheet.
Height to the base of living crown
Height sample trees are also measured for height to the base of living crown that is recorded in metres to one
decimal place (e.g., 12.6 m). The crown base is defined to be the lowest living branch. However, living
branches which are separated by two or more whorls of dead branches from other living branches are not
considered in the determination of the crown base.
Base
Due to the error in height measurement of leaning trees, also the base is needed to measure. The base refers
to the horizontal distance from the centre of the tree stump to the ground projected tip of the tree. The base
distance is noted in centimetres.
Stump height
The vertical distance from the ground on the uphill side to the top of the stump on cut trees. Vertical
distance from the ground to a stump height set by study objectives or local utilization practice for uncut
trees.Heights of tallied stumps are recorded in centimetres (e.g., 26 cm).
Age
Mean age of the trees comprising a forest, crop, or stand. In forests, the mean age of dominant (and
sometimes codominant) trees is taken. The plantation age is generally taken from the year the plantation was
begun, without adding the age of the nursery stock. -Of a tree: the time elapsed since the germination of the
seed, or the budding of the sprout or cutting from which the treedeveloped .Only the species that are known
to produce visible annual rings may be bored for the estimation of age. These comprise Abies sp., Picea sp.,
Pinus sp., and Tsuga sp. Due to the destructive nature of the technique, all sample trees bored for the
determination of age and radial growth are to be selected from the buffer zone of the plot; the total number
and characteristics (species, diameter at breast height and total height) of the trees bored should equal to
those of the sample trees selected for the measurement of height, for instance.
For every selected tree a borer is used to extract a core at the breast height for the determination of age and
diameter increment. The borer must be used perpendicularly against the tree and it must penetrate up to the
centre of the tree. The breast height age is obtained by counting the annual growth rings from the pith to the
last full growth ring. To obtain the total age of the tree, a number of years, that the tree took to up to the
breast height, must be added to the breast height age. This can be estimated by counting the branch whorls
between the ground level and the breast height. The total age of the tree is noted on the tally sheet.
Radial growth
Increase in diameter, basal area, height, and volume of individual trees or stands during a given period of
time. From the same core, which was used for age determination, a radial growth of the last five years is
measured. The last five full annual rings are determined and the full length of these marked on the core. The
length of the rings is measured using a ruler and noted on the tally sheet at an accuracy of millimetre (mm).
4.3.5 Measurement of dead wood
In most cases dead wood is less abundant than live trees. Both the downed and standing dead wood is
measured from the sample plots of the FRA (Field form 3). Dead standing trees and stumps are tallied from
the CCSPs as described in chapter 4.3. Standing dead tree, dead twigs, branches, stems, and boles of trees
and brush that have fallen and lie on or above the ground is measured from the plot with a radius of 10 m.
Only the dead wood stems and their fragments lying within the plot radius and at least 5.0 cm thick, when
determined at 1.3 meters apart from base, are measured. Fallen branches and stems should be divided into
sections of roughly one metre and the exact length and the diameter at the middle of each section should be
recorded. For stems/branch fragments that are less than 1 metre long, the length and diameter at the middle
should be measured. . If a stump is taller than 1.3 m, it should be measured in the same way as standing dead
trees. If it is less than 1.3 m tall, the diameter should be measured as close as possible to the top.Standards to
be used while measuring standing and fallen dead wood and stumps are summarized in Figure 8. Dead lying
climbers are measured in a similar way. The recorded characteristics obtained for stems or their fragments
lying within the plot radius are:
Figure 8. Measurement of standing and fallen dead wood and stumps.
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Number
All measured downed dead wood particles are numbered, and the numbering continues without interrupts to
the particle of the plot.
Species
Species obtained for the downed dead wood stem or particle lying within the plot radius of 10 m and at least
5.0 cm thick. For the list of tree species see Appendix VI.
Diameter at middle
Diameter at middle obtained for the particle lying within the plot radius of 10 m and at least 5.0 cm thick
when determined at 1.3 metres apart from base. Recorded in centimetres.
Length
Total length of the particle lying within the plot radius of 10 m and at least 5.0 cm thick. Recorded in meters.
4.4 Assessing the crown cover of shrub vegetation
Shrub measurements are carried out on the four subplots with the radius of 2 m (area: 12.6 m2) that are
located 10 metres from the centre of the CCSP in the four cardinal directions (N, E, S and W; see Figure
2A), respectively (Field form 5). Crown cover of shrub vegetation is the percentage (0–99 %) obtained for
the horizontal projection of the shrub crowns covering the area of the subplot.
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Subplot
N Shrub plot 10 metres North from the centre of the CCSP.
E
Shrub plot 10 metres East from the centre of the CCSP.
S
Shrub plot 10 metres South from the centre of the CCSP.
W Shrub plot 10 metres West from the centre of the CCSP.
Crown cover
Crown cover of shrub vegetation is the percentage (0–99 %) obtained for the horizontal projection of the
shrub crowns covering the area of the subplot. Technically, the estimation of the crown cover of shrub
vegetation (0–99 %) is implemented by four quadrants of the circular subplot; assess quadrants separately
and then average the result for obtaining the subplot wise estimate of the characteristics.
4.5 Tallying shrubs
Shrubs are identified and measured from the four subplots with the radius of 2 m (area: 12.6 m2) that are
located 10 metres from the centre of the CCSP in the four cardinal directions (N, E, S and W; see Figure
2A), respectively (Field form 5). Height and diameter of each shrub is recommended to measure.
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Subplot
N Shrub plot 10 metres North from the centre of the CCSP.
E
Shrub plot 10 metres East from the centre of the CCSP.
S
Shrub plot 10 metres South from the centre of the CCSP.
W Shrub plot 10 metres West from the centre of the CCSP.
Species
Species of the bush. For the list of tree and shrub species see Annex VI.
Multiplier
If there are several similar shrubs in terms of size and species, they can be recorded by filling in one data
row only. Then the multiplier specifies the total number of similar shrubs.
Diameter
Diameter of the bush is measured near the root collar.
Height
Measured estimate height of stems of the bush. If available, a measuring pole can be used for determining
the height of bush stems.
4.6 Seedling and sapling measurements
Seedlings and saplings, i.e. small sized trees with a distinct stem and diameter at breast height less than 5
cm, are measured from the four subplots with the radius of 2 m (area: 12.6 m2) that are located 10 metres
from the centre of the CCSP in the four cardinal directions (N, E, S and W; see Figure 2A), respectively
(Field form 5). Height and diameter of each seedling and sapling are recommended to measure. Measuring
pole can be used when measuring heights of seedlings and saplings. Number of seedlings in height of h ≤
1.3 m is considered as regeneration and counting only. During data analysis phase, seedlings and saplings
are categorized into three height classes like height class 1 (1.3 m < h ≤ 3.0 m), height class 2 (3 m < h ≤ 5.0
m) and height class 3 (5 m < h) as per requirement.
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Subplot
N Seedling and sapling plot 10 metres North from the centre of the CCSP.
E
Seedling and sapling plot 10 metres East from the centre of the CCSP.
S
Seedling and sapling plot 10 metres South from the centre of the CCSP.
W Seedling and sapling plot 10 metres West from the centre of the CCSP.
Dominant species
Dominant species in the seedling class, i.e. trees having a diameter at breast height less than 5 cm. For the
list of tree species see Appendix VI.
4.7 Collecting soil samples
4.7.1 Principles of soil sampling
To save costs only easily measurable soil characteristics (e.g., soil depth, soil texture, organic layer, surface
soil and proportion of coarse fractions) are estimated on every plot, whereas deeper soil layers are collected
from a subsample of plots. Plotwise collected samples and subsamples (organic layer: 3, surface soil layer:
3, deeper soil layers (4 samples from each pit) are labelled and kept separate, i.e. composite samples are not
made prior to their laboratory analyses.
The basic location setup for soil sample points is illustrated in Figure 8. When the principal points of Figure
8 are not reachable or usable due to physical obstacles (e.g., deep slopes, trees and large stones), then
sampling points are located by rotating bearing of the sampling points in clockwise direction. In any case,
the total number of sampling points for organic layer and surface soil is 3 per sample plot, whereas samples
from the deeper soil layers are collected always from at least two soil pits per one sample plot.
Soil samples are put into plastic bags that are labelled with codes identifying the samples unambiguously.
The code consists of variables (cf. chapter 4.6.2): cluster column, cluster row, number of CCSP, code of soil
sampling point, sample type and sampling layer. For example, a sample with code ‘23-1-2-NW-2-2’ is
identified by the variables with respective values that are as follows: cluster = 23-1 (column = 23 and row =
1), CCSP = 2, sample point = NW (point selected for the collection of samples from deeper soil layers),
sample type = 2 (surface soil sample) and sampling layer = 2 (mineral surface soil < 20 cm).
Soil sampling is quantified through the volumetric measurement procedure making it possible to calculate
area estimates for the soil characteristics (kg/m2, kg/ha or Mg/ha). Wet weights of individual soil samples
are determined in the field with 0.1 g precision. Thereafter soil samples should be air-dried as quickly as
possible to prevent harmful changes for instance in acidity. After soil samples have been delivered to the
laboratory, they should be sieved with a 2 mm sieve ( gravel percentage). Under 2 mm soil should be
analysed at least for particle size distribution, organic matter (loss-on-ignition), carbon, nitrogen and pH.
4.7.2 Sampling organic and surface soils and deeper soil layers
When there exists a clear forest floor, i.e. a mor, moder or peat layer, on the top of mineral soil, it is possible
to collect a surface sample separate to the mineral soil using a volumetric soil sampling cylinder, i.e. core
sampler, designed for the purpose. Altogether 3 systematically located volumetric samples are used to assess
properties of the organic layer (see Figure 8). Sample wise recorded variables are: id-numbers for cluster,
plot and sample point and the thickness of layer in millimetres (Field form 6).
The 3 systematically located sample points used to assess properties of the organic layer are also selected for
collecting volumetric samples from the surface layer of the mineral soil. Soil samples are collected using the
volumetric soil sampling cylinder, i.e. core sampler, designed for the purpose. In stony soils, samples from
the surface soil has to be collected with spades from as small pits as possible. Care must be given to avoid
stones, pebbles and rocky sand for volumetric soil sampling. The sample taken for volumetric analysis i.e.
bulk density goes on oven to evaporate moisture and change in soil chemistry take place in the sample.
Thus, for pH, organic matter, nitrogen and soil texture measurement a separate sample should be taken
nearby point of volumetric soil sampling point in the sampling plot.
Deeper soil layers are sampled and soil profiles characterised on one sampling plot in each cluster. On these
plots, soil pits are located as described in chapter 4.7.3 and excavated 1 metre apart from the plot edge.
Volumetric samples are collected from these soil pits at the layers (pit walls) of:
1) organic layer (if exists),
2) < 20 cm (mineral surface soil),
3) 20–40 cm,
4) 40–80 cm, and
5) 80–100 cm.
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Sample point
Code of the sampling point used to collect (volumetric) samples of the organic layer, surface soil and deeper
soil layers (see Figure 8).
Sample type
1
organic sample
2
surface soil sample (Volumetric/ Non Volumetric)
3
deeper soil sample
Sampling layer
1
organic layer (if exists)
2
< 20 cm (mineral surface soil),
3
20–40 cm (mineral soil),
4
40–80 cm (mineral soil), and
5
80–100 cm (mineral soil).
Figure 8. The systematically located soil sample collection points on the CCSP. Soil pits are used to collect
samples from deeper soil layers and to obtain information on soil profiles. Optional sampling points are
used when the principal points are not usable due to physical obstacles (e.g., trees and large stones).
Weight
Wet weight of the sample. Determined with 0.1 g precision.
Volumetric
0
Nonvolumetric soil samples
1
Volumetric soil sample
Thickness of organic sample
Thickness of the sample collected from the organic layer, recorded in millimetres.
4.7.3 Assessing soil profiles
Soil profiles can be characterised on the plots used to collect samples from deeper soil layers (Field form 6).
Soil profiles are located and excavated 1 m outside the plot edge in either of the cardinal or half-cardinal
points (N, NE, E, ..., NW). As soil distribution pattern is more or less same in plain area, two soil pits at
West and East directions are enough and direction can be shift to North, South or other if the terrain
condition/standing tree does not permit to dig pit. However, in hilly terrain condition and different forest
stand in a sampling plot, pit must be representative to each forest stand or at different land cover type. In
addition, a digital photo over the profile is taken for the documentation and post-verification purposes. The
photos are labelled with id-numbers and -codes for cluster, plot and soil pit.
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Sample point
Code of the soil pit (N, NE, E, ..., NW) used to collect (volumetric) samples of deeper soil layers (see Figure
8).
Horizon
Code identifying the horizon. H, O, A, E, B, C, R, I, L and W represent the master horizons and layers in
soils (p. 67-71 of the FAO’s guidelines).
Thickness
Thickness of the horizon is determined with the reading accuracy of 1 cm.
Munsell’s colour
Maximum/minimum moist colours are defined in terms of hue, value and chroma according to Munsell’s
(2009) ‘soil color charts’.
Soil texture
For determining the variable see chapter “4.2.2 Stand description”.
Coarse fractions percentage
Coarse fractions percentage. For estimating the proportions of coarse mineral fragments (> 2 mm) and
mottles in the mineral soil see Appendix VI.
4.8 Assessing biodiversity characteristics
4.8.1 Coverage of species
Percent coverage of the herbaceous plants, grasses and pteridophytes will be recorded from four square
vegetation plots (VP) of the size 1 m2 (Figure 2A, Field form 7). Cornerwise placed VPs are located to the
cardinal points (N, E, S and W) from the centre of the CCSP, and the distance between the centre of the
CCSP and the corner of the VP next to the centre of the CCSP is five metres. The area of the VP is
delineated using a 1 m × 1 m square PVC pipe frame placed on the ground. Percent covers of the vascular
plants and ferns are determined by VPs meaning that separate forms are filled in for the four VPs (VP1–
VP4), respectively. If the percent coverage obtained for the species is less than 0.5 %, write 0. For each
species by the square vegetation plots, respectively, the following attributes are recorded:
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Sample plots within clusters are pre-numbered. Numbers of the sample plots are printed on the printouts of
satellite images and topographic maps.
Vegetation plot
N Vegetation plot 5 metres North from the centre of the CCSP.
E
Vegetation plot 5 metres East from the centre of the CCSP.
S
Vegetation plot 5 metres South from the centre of the CCSP.
W Vegetation plot 5 metres West from the centre of the CCSP.
Species
Species are identified by the biodiversity expert of the crew along with the help of local helpers.
Cover% of Species
The number of recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to another and equals to the number
of species observed in the vegetation plot.
4.8.2 Epiphytes, parasites, climbers and their host trees
A plant that germinate on the forest floor and grow, at least for part of their life, or when the forest closes up
around them, by winding around, leaning on, or anchoring or adhering to other plants. Stranglers (e.g. Figus)
and epiphytes (e.g. Orchidaceae) are excluded if they characteristically germinate on other plants rather than
in the soil, and even if they grow downwards to root in the soil later. Epiphytes, parasites and climbers with
their host trees are identified from the plot with the radius of 20 (Field form 7).
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Species
Species determined for epiphytes, parasites and climbers.
Host or supporting tree species
Species of the host tree (see Appendix VI) respective to the observed epiphyte, parasite and climber species.
The number of recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to another and equals to the number
of species observed in the sample plot.
4.8.3 Large wildlife species
Flagship mammals, other large wildlife and the indicators regarding their presence are collected from the
plot with a radius of 20 m and from the transect lines between these circular plots (Field form 8). When and
where it is appropriate, digital photos are taken for the documentation purposes (date and time recording
enables connection with other recorded data).
Cluster
Number for the given cluster identified on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Plot
Number of the sample plot printed on the printouts of satellite images and topographic maps.
Flagship and other large wildlife species
0
No flagship mammals.
1
Barking Deer
2
Himalayan Black Bear
3
Blue Sheep
4
Brown Bear
5
Chital
6
Clouded Leopard
7
Common Leopard
8
Wild Elephant
9
Gaur Bison
10 Ghariyal Crocodile
11 Himalayan Tahr
12 Hog Deer
13 Hyna
14 Jackal
15 Langur
16 Lynx
17 Monkey
18 Mugger Crocodile
19 Musk Deer
20 Nil Gai
21 Red Panda
22 Rhino
23 Sambar
24 Sloth Bear
25 Snow Leopard
26 Swamp Deer
27 Tiger
28 Wild Ash
29 Wild Boar
30 Wild Water Buffalo
31 Wild Dog
The number of recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to another and equals to the number
of flagship mammal species observed in the sample plot.
Type of observation/species
0
Not applicable.
1 Direct observation
2
Pug marks
3
Droppings
4
Marking
5
Feeding or grazing
6
Call
7
Carcass
8
Spoors
9
Other. Define in remarks.
The number of recordings (~ record rows) varies from one sample plot to another and equals to the number
of flagship mammal species observed in the sample plot.
4.9 Time measurements
Time measurements are conducted for obtaining information on the time consumption needed for the
analysis of selected inventory design and measurement setups and selecting plots for control assessments.
Data on the time consumption, i.e. the starting times of different phases of the inventory workday, are
recorded on Field form 9.
Camp departure time – travel by car
Time when the camp or other accommodation was left and the travel by the vehicle started (e.g., 7:05).
Departure time – travel on foot
Time when walking from the camp, vehicle or sample plot to the next sample plot started (e.g., 7:42).
Plot reaching time
Time when the plot area was reached (e.g., 10:15).
Plot location time
Time when the plot centre was reached and located (e.g., 10:35).
Work completion time
Time when measurements on the plot were completed (e.g., 15:11).
Arrival time to the car or camp – travel on foot
Time when the camp or car was reached by walking from the last sample plot of the day (e.g., 16:02).
Arrival time to the camp – travel by car
Time when the camp was reached by car (e.g., 16:32).
4.10 Instructions for photographing
Digital photos are taken for the visual documentation of forest sceneries and structures, soil profiles and
biodiversity characteristics respective to the field measured sample plots. These image data are needed for
the post-verification of field recordings, for interpretation of remote sensing data and for collecting
information to be utilised in reporting inventory results and compiling training catalogues. During the
inventory, photographs are taken from the following objects:
1) sample plot/forest stand(s) (4 photographs/plot, one photograph from the plot centre to the each of
the four cardinal direction);
2) soil profiles (4 photographs/plot, are taken from soil pits (SP) excavated on the sample plots selected
for assessing characteristics of deeper soil layers);
3) vascular plants and herbs (photographs taken from the species that cannot be identified in the field);
and
4) Flagship mammals, large wildlife and their indicators.
Before photographing starts, it is essential to check that the date and time settings are correct. Photographs
are taken using basic, i.e. ’auto shooting’, settings with wide enough focus frame. Photographing against the
sun is not recommended. On each sample plot, the photographing starts by taking a photo of the sketch
drawing sheet with printed cluster and plot identification parameters (see Field form 1). It is essential that
the quality of photographs is verified in the field and prior to that when the field crew leaves the sample plot.
In the base camp photographs are transferred from the camera into the folder ’Photographs’ on the field
computer and the image files (*.jpeg) are labelled. In the case of the plot 2 within the cluster 23-1, for
instance, the photographs are labelled as follows:
1) sample plot/forest stand(s): 23-1-2-N.jpeg, 23-1-2-E.jpeg, 23-1-2-S.jpeg and 23-1-2-W.jpeg
2) soil profiles: 23-1-2-SP1.jpeg, 23-1-2-SP2.jpeg, 23-1-2-SP3.jpeg and 23-1-2-SP4.jpeg
3) vascular plants and herbs: 23-1-2-VH1.jpeg, 23-1-2-VH2.jpeg, ...
4) flagship mammals and their indicators: 23-1-2-FM1.jpeg, 23-1-2-FM2.jpeg, ...
Information on photographs is captured on the plot wise filled sketch drawing sheet (Field form 1) by
writing the names of image files on it.
5 Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC)
Provisions for quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) must be implemented to ensure that the
recorded data and followed procedures are reliable and meet minimum measurement standards. This
description of quality control is based on the sourcebook for LULUCF by Pearson (2005). The QA/QC
provisions are an integral part of Standard Operations Procedures and include procedures for: (1) collecting
reliable field measurements; (2) verifying laboratory procedures; (3) verifying data entry and analysis
techniques; and (4) data maintenance and archiving.
5.1 QA/QC for Field Measurements
Rigorous Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) must be developed and detail all steps taken in the fieldwork. The SOP ensures that measurements executed by different teams or at different times are consistent
and comparable. Once the SOP is developed, field crews must be fully trained in all aspects of field data
collection. Field crews should receive extensive training so as to be fully cognizant of all procedures and the
importance of collecting accurate data. During every field visit, a document should be produced and filed
with the project which documents and verifies that all steps from the SOP have been followed, and lists all
deviations from the SOP, if any. The SOP must be updated if significant issues with the procedures rise.
An audit program for field measurements and sampling should be established. A typical audit program
should be performed by National Technical Team which consists of three types of checks. During a hot
check, auditiors observe members of the field crew during data collection on a field plot (this is primarily for
training purposes). Cold checks occur when field crews are not present for the audit. Blind checks represent
the complete re-measurement of a plot by the auditors. Hot checks allow the correction of errors in
techniques. Measurement variance can be calculated through blind checks. When fieldwork is completed,
about 10 percent of the plots should be checked independently. Field data collected at this stage can be
compared with the original data, and errors should be corrected and recorded. To provide an estimate of the
measurement error, errors can be expressed as a percentage of all plots that have been rechecked.
5.2 QA/QC for Laboratory Measurements
Standard Operations Procedures for laboratory measurements should be prepared by the laboratory staff and
be followed for each part of the analyses. If an external laboratory performs the analyses, a record of the
procedure(s) must be obtained. Typical steps for the guidelines for laboratory measurements include
calibrating combustion instruments for measuring total carbon or carbon forms using commercially available
certified carbon standards. Similarly, all balances for measuring dry weights should be calibrated
periodically against known weights. Fine-scale balances should be calibrated by the manufacturer. Where
possible, 10 to 20percent of the samples should be re-analyzed/re-weighed to produce an error estimate.
5.3 QA/QC for Data Entry
Data entry can be done immediately in the field, using field computers. However, in most cases,
measurements are written down in the field and must be entered manually into spreadsheets. Data entry into
spreadsheets is often a significant source of error. Ongoing communication between all personnel involved
in measuring and analyzing data is critical for resolving apparent anomalies before final analysis of the
monitoring data is completed. Special attention must go to units used in the field. Typical mistakes are
confusion between diameters or circumferences if trees are measured, or the length unit (mm, cm, and
inches). All measurements contained in spreadsheets must have the unit clearly indicated. Errors can be
reduced by spot checks of the entered data by independent personnel. In addition, outliers can be identified
by checking whether each value is within an expected range. If during spot-checks or range checks, a
significant number of errors are found, all data must be re-checked by independent personnel. If there are
any anomalies that cannot be resolved, the plot should note used in the analysis.
5.4 QA/QC for Data Archiving
Because of the relatively long-term nature of forestry activities, data archiving and storage is important and
should include the following steps:
1) Original copies of the field measurement (data sheets or electronic files) and laboratory data should
be maintained in original form, placed on electronic media, and stored in a secure location.
2) Copies of all data analyses, models, the final estimates, GIS products, and a copy of the measuring
and monitoring reports also should all be stored in a secure location (preferably offsite).
3) Given the period for reporting and the pace of production of updated versions of software and new
hardware for storing data, electronic copies of the data and report should be updated periodically or
converted to a format that can be accessed by new or updated software.
REFERENCES
ANSAB. ICIMOD. FECOFON. 2010. Forest Carbon Stock Measurement. Guidelines to measure carbon
stocks in Community Managed Forests.
FAO. 2006. Guidelines for Soil Description, Fourth edition. Food and Agriculture Organization of the
United Nations, Publishing Management Service, Information Division. Rome, Italy. 97 p.
FAO. 2004. National Forest Inventory. Field manual template. 4 rd Edition. FAO Forestry Department.
Rome, Italy.
Forest and shrub cover of Nepal 1994 (1989–96). 1999. Forest Survey Division, Department of Forest
Research and Survey, Ministry of Forests and Soil Conservation, His Majesty’s Government of Nepal.
Forest Resource Information System Project. Publication No. 72. 14 p. + Annexes.
IPCC (2006). Good Practice Guidance for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories. Chapter 4: Agriculture,
Forestry, And Other Land Uses (AFOLU). Intergovernmental Panel On Climate Change, Geneva
Switzerland.
Pearson, T., Walker, S. and Brown, S. 2005.Sourcebook for land use, land-use change and forestry projects.
Winrock International and the BioCarbon Fund of the World Bank.
Munsell. 2009. The Munsell Soil Color Charts. 2009 Revision.
van Laar, A., Akça, A., 1997. Forest Mensuration. Cuvillier Verlag, Göttingen. 418 p.
Annexes
Annex I:
List of measuring tools and equipments determined for one field crew.
Annex II:
Key to the soil textural classes (FAO 2006).
Annex III:
Forest Types.
Annex IV:
A tentative list for Non-Timber Forest Product species.
Annex V:
Determination of ground level and seeding point, and measurement points of diameters at
breast height of trees growing on slopes or that are leaning.
Annex VI:
Charts for estimating proportions of coarse mineral fragments and mottles (FAO 2006).
Annex VII:
Description of equipments
Annex VIII:
Field method for Forest, NTFPs and biodiversity survey
FIELD FORMS
Field form 1:
Sketch Drawing Sheet
Field form 2:
Sample Plot Field Form
Field form 3:
Tally and Sample Tree Field Form
Field form 4:
Dead Tree and Disturbances Field Form
Field form 5:
Shrub and Seedling + Sapling Field Form
Field form 6:
Soil Sample + Horizon Field Form
Field form 7:
Biodiversity Plant and Fungus Field Form
Field form 8:
Biodiversity Mammals Field Form
Field form 9:
Time Measurements Field Form
Annex I
List of measuring tools and equipments determined for one field crew.
A. Navigation and data recording
Item
N/Crew
Purpose
Digital camera
Cell phone (CDMA)
1
1
For documentation
For regular communication
Field computer
1
For data recording in the field
Field forms
n
For recording field data manually
GPS device
1
For navigating in the field and locating sample plots
Pens, pencil, eraser
n
For recording
Pocket calculator
1
For quick mathematical calculation
Sheet holder
1
For protecting data sheet in the field
Topographic map
1
For navigating and establishing sample plots in the field
Satellite images
n
For navigating and establishing sample plots in the field
B. Sample plot measurements
Item
N/Crew
Purpose
Axes/billhooks
Bussol
2
For field work
For measuring bearings
Caliper
1
For measuring tree diameter at breast height
Chalk/Marker
n
Spherical densitometer
1
For instance, for marking the sample trees and boundary trees
temporarily to ensure that they are measured
For measuring crown density
Enamel paint
1
For permanent marking
Hammer
1
For field work
Increment borer
1
For identifying age of tree
Linear tape (50 m)
1
For measuring distances
Linear tape (20 m)
1
For measuring distances
Loggers tape
1
For plot boundary delineation
Measuring pole/rod (4–7 m)
1
For measuring heights of seedlings, saplings and shrubs
Plastic cover
n
For storing increment specimens
Survey Master
1
For measuring the ground slope
Talmeter
1
For measuring diameter of the tree at breast height
Vertex IV and Transponder T3
1
For measuring tree height, distance, angle and establishing
circular plots without the use of tapes, bussol and survey
master
C. Herb and grass collection and observing biodiversity characteristics
Item
N/Crew
Purpose
Binocular
Clothes bags
1
n
For climber and wild live identification
For collecting samples
Knife/Sickle
1
For cutting herbs and grasses
Plastic bags
n
For collecting samples
PVC pipe frame (1 m × 1 m square)
1
For delineating vegetation plots
Scissors
1
For cutting herbs and grasses
D. Soil sample collection
Item
N/Crew
Purpose
Metal ruler (aluminium)
1
Munsell’s soil colour chart
1
For measuring thicknesses of organic soil samples and soil
horizons
For determining soil colours (i.e., hue, value and chroma)
Plastic bags
n
For storing samples
Soil sample core
1
For collecting soil samples from various depths
Spade
1
For excavating soil pits
Spring balance
1
For weighting soil samples in the field
Steel rod (1 m)
1
For measurement of coarse fraction proportion
Sticking tape
1
For labelling plastic bags for soil samples
Volumetric cylinder I
1
For organic layer
Volumetric cylinder II
1
For mineral soil
Annex II
Key to the soil textural classes according to the Guidelines for Soil Description by FAO (2006).
Definition
Soil texture class
1 Not possible to roll a wire of about 7 mm in diameter (about the diameter of a pencil)
1.1 not dirty, not floury, no fine material in the finger rills:
sand
• if grain sizes are mixed:
unsorted sand
• if most grains are very coarse (> 0.6 mm):
very coarse and coarse sand
• if most grains are of medium size (0.2–0.6 mm):
medium sand
• if most grains are of fine size (< 0.2 mm) but still grainy:
fine sand
• if most grains are of very fine size (< 0.12 mm), tending to be floury:
very fine sand
Code
S
US
CS
MS
FS
VFS
Clay content, %
<5
<5
<5
<5
<5
<5
1.2 not floury, grainy, scarcely fine material in the finger rills, weakly shapeable, loamy sand
LS
< 12
adheres slightly to the fingers:
1.3 similar to 1.2 but moderately floury:
sandy loam (clay-poor)
SL
< 10
2 Possible to roll a wire of about 3–7 mm in diameter (about half the diameter of a pencil) but breaks when trying to form the wire to a ring of
about 2–3 cm in diameter, moderately cohesive, adheres to the fingers
2.1 very floury and not cohesive
• some grains to feel:
silt loam (clay-poor)
SiL
< 10
• no grains to feel:
silt
Si
< 12
2.2 moderately cohesive, adheres to the fingers, has a rough and ripped surface
after squeezing between fingers and
• very grainy and not sticky:
sandy loam (clay-rich)
SL
10–25
• moderate sand grains:
loam
L
8–27
• not grainy but distinctly floury and somewhat sticky:
silt loam (clay-rich)
SiL
10–27
2.3 rough and moderate shiny surface after squeezing between fingers and is
sandy clay loam
SCL
20–35
sticky and grainy to very grainy:
3 Possible to roll a wire of about 3 mm in diameter (less than half the diameter of a pencil) and to form the wire to a ring of about 2–3 cm in
diameter, cohesive, sticky, gnashes between teeth, has a moderately shiny to shiny surface after squeezing between fingers
3.1 very grainy:
sandy clay
SC
35–55
3.2 some grains to see and to feel, gnashes between teeth
• moderate plasticity, moderately shiny surfaces:
clay loam
CL
25–40
• high plasticity, shiny surfaces:
clay
C
40–60
3.3 no grains to see and to feel, does not gnash between teeth
• low plasticity:
silty clay loam
SiCL
25–40
• high plasticity, moderately shiny surfaces:
silty clay
SiC
40–60
• high plasticity, shiny surfaces:
heavy clay
HC
> 60
Annex III
Forest types based on the LRMP inventory.
Number
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
Forest
type
A
Abu
Abuq
ADMB
ADMBpw
Apw
APwq
AQ
Aq
AQpw
AQsp
AQtd
Asp
ASppw
ASpq
ATd
ATDa
ATdpw
ATdq
Bu
BuA
BuCt
BuQ
Burn
Ce
Ct
CtBu
DMB
DMBA
DMBa
DMBAbu
DMBApw
DMBAtd
DMBbu
DMBCta
DMBpw
DMBQ
DMBQa
DMBsp
DMBTd
DMBtd
DMBTda
DMBTdpw
KS
Pr
PrPw
Definition
Forest
cover(*
C
M
M
M
M
C
C
M
C
M
M
M
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
H
M
M
H
Br
C
C
M
H
M
H
M
M
M
H
M
H
H
H
H
M
H
M
M
H
C
C
District
Doti
Bajhang
Bajhang
Darchula
Bajura
Bajhang
Bajhang
Accham
Bajura
Bajhang
Bajura
Bajhang
Bajura
Bajura
Bajhang
Accham
Bajura
Bajhang
Accham
Bajhang
Bajhang
Bajhang
Bajhang
Bajhang
Baitadi
Bajhang
Bajhang
Accham
Bajhang
Darchula
Darchula
Bajhang
Darchula
Darchula
Bajhang
Bajhang
Accham
BAJURA
Bajhang
Accham
Bajhang
Darchula
Bajhang
Dadeldhura
Accham
Bajura
Physiographic
region
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Siwalik (ex.Dun)
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
47
Number
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
(*
PrQ
Forest
type
PrSal
PrTMH
Pw
PwA
PwApr
PwAsp
PwDMB
PwPr
PwQ
Pwsp
PwSpa
Q
QA
QApw
QAsp
QAtd
QDMB
QPr
QPw
QSp
QTd
QTda
QTMH
S
Sal
Salpr
Salpr
SalTMH
Sp
Td
TdA
TdApw
TdAq
TdAQ
TdBu
TdDMB
TdDMBa
TdQ
Tdq
Tdsp
TMH
TMHpr
TMHSal
Definition
M
Accham
Middle Mountains
Forest
cover(*
M
C
C
C
C
C
M
C
M
C
C
H
M
M
M
M
H
M
M
M
M
M
H
M
H
H
M
H
C
C
C
C
C
C
M
M
M
M
C
C
H
H
H
District
Physiographic
region
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Siwalik (ex.Dun)
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
High Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
Middle Mountains
Accham
Accham
Bajhang
Bajura
Bajura
Bajura
Bajhang
Bajura
Bajhang
Bajura
Bajhang
Accham
Accham
Bajhang
Bajura
Bajhang
Accham
Accham
Bajhang
Doti
Accham
Doti
Doti
Kailali
Accham
Accham
Accham
Accham
Bajhang
Accham
Bajhang
Bajhang
Bajhang
Bajhang
Bajura
Accham
Bajhang
Accham
Accham
Bajhang
Accham
Accham
Accham
Definition of variables: C = Conifer species, M = Mixed species, and H = Hardwood species.
Forest types according to Stainton (1972)
Tropical and Subtropical
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Sal forest
Tropical deciduous riverain forest
Tropical evergreen forest
Subtropical evergreen forest
Terminalia forest
Dalbergia sissoo-Acacia catechu forest
Subtropical deciduous hill forest
Schima-Castanopsis forest
Subtropical semi-evergreen hill forest
Pinus roxburghii forest
Temperate and Alpine Broadleaved
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
Qercus incana-Quercus lanuginosa forest
Quercus dilatata forest
Quercus semecarpifolia forest
Castananopsis tribuloides-Castanopsis hystrix forest
Quercus lamellosa forest
Lithocarpus pachyphylla forest
Aesculus-Juglans-Acer forest
Lower temperate mixed broadleaved forest
Upper temperate mixed broadleaved forest
Rhododendron forest
Betula utilis forest
Temperate and Alpine Conifer
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
Abies spectabilis forest
Tsuga dumosa forest
Pinus excelsa forest
Picea smithiana forest
Abies pindrow forest
Cedrus deodara forest
Cupressus torulosa forest
Larix forest
Minor Temperate and Alpine Associations
30
31
32
33
34
35
Alnus woods
Populus ciliata woods
Hippophae scrub
Moist alpine scrub
Dry alpine scrub
Juniperus wallichiana forest
Annex IV
Names and codes of Non-Timber Forest Product species.
Code
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
Vernacular name
Bans
Lokta
Babio
Kurilo, Satavari
Thakal
Nigalo
Maling
Nagbeli, Banmala
Silajit
Bikh, Aconite
Banlasun, Jimbu
Chutro (I)
Chutro (II)
Pakhaved
Malagiri, Sugandha kokila
Tejpat (leaves), Dalchini (bark)
Panch Aunle, Hatajadi
Rudraksha, Gedi
Somalata
Karu
Dhupi (I)
Dhupi (II)
Jatamanshi, Bhutle, Naswa
Mangen, Naadar
Satuwa
Kutki
Laghupatra
Sarpagandha, Chandmaruwa
Padamchal, Chulthi amilo
Sun pate
Majitho
Chiraito
Silangi, Singhi, Tali swan,
Dhingre salla, Talispatra,
Laundh salla
English name
Bamboo
Daphne
Sawai grass
Asparagus
Amriso
Gurjo
Sugandhawal
Dhanyaro, Amaar phool
Timur
Yarsa gumba
Asuro
Dhatelo
Sarmaguru
–
Broom grass
Barberry
Barberry
Cinnamo
Utrasum bead tree
Black juniper
Drooping juniper
Spikenard
Podophyllum
Serpentine
Rhubarb
Himalayan yew
Valerian
Nepal paper
Other: specify vernacular,
English and Latin names
Latin name
Bambusa arundinacea
Daphne bholua
Eulaliopsis binata
Asperagus racemosus
Phoenix humilis
Arundinaria falcate
Arundinaria maling
Lycopodium clavatum
Aconitum spicatum
Allium wallichii
Berberis aristata
Berberis asiatica
Berbenia ciliate
Cinnamomum glaucescen
Cinnamomum tamala
Dactylorhiza hatagirea
Elaeocarpus sphaericus
Ephedra gerardiana
Gentiana kurroo
Juniperus indica
Juniperus recurva
Nardostachys grandiflora
Panax pseudo-ginseng
Paris polyphylla
Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora
Podophyllum hexandrum
Rauwolfia serpentine
Rheum austral
Rhododendron anthopogon
Rubia manjith
Swertia chirayita
Taxus baccata
Thysanolaena maxima
Tinospora sinensis
Valeriana jatamansi
Woodfordia fructiosa
Zanthoxylum armatum
Cordyceps sinensis
Justicea adhatoda
Princepia utilis
Swertia multicaulis
–
Annex V
Determination of ground level (A, B) and seeding point (C), and measurement of diameters at breast
height of trees growing on the slope (D) and that are leaning (E).
A
B
D
C
E
Annex VI
Charts for estimating the proportions of coarse mineral fragments (> 2 mm) and mottles in the
mineral soil (FAO 2006, p. 30).
Annex VII
Description of equipments
1. Vertex IV and Transponder T3 (Source: Vertex IV and Transponder T3 manual January 2007,
v.10)
1.1 Description
The Vertex IV is primarily used to measure the height of standing trees. The instrument can also be used to
measure distance, horizontal distance, angle and inclination. The Vertex instrument uses ultrasonic
measuring technique for measurements.
.
To define a reference point in a secure and reliable way, the Vertex IV communicates and works with the
transponder T3
The Vertex IV has three keys: Two arrow keys and one ON key. To turn the Vertex IV off, press DME and
IR keys together.
Vertex IV and the transponder T3 each use an alkaline or a rechargeable battery of 1.5 V AA. The battery is
placed under the battery cap, plus pole + down. Data in the Vertex can be sent through IR or Bluetooth.
1.2 Setting-up the equipments
All settings to measure heights, distances and angles are made in the SETUP menu.
Choose between metric or feet, degrees or percentage, pivot offset, transponder height
and manual distance. Start the Vertex IV by pressing ON. Press any of the arrow keys to
go to the SETUP page and press ON to enter into settings. Step to the parameter using ON
and change values with the arrow keys.
METRIC/FEET Choose if height and distance values should be featured in METRIC or
FEET. Shift with the arrow keys and confirm your choice with ON.
DEG/GRAD/% Select Angle unit as Deg (degrees 0 to 360), GRAD (gradients 0 to 400)
or % (percentage) by pressing the arrow keys. Confirm by pressing ON.
P.OFFSET (Pivot Offset) Change the value with the arrow keys
confirm your choice with ON. The value is shown in Metric/Feet.
and
The “Pivot offset” is equal to the distance between the front side
instrument to the aimed point where the prolonging of the sight
from the transponder and the top of the tree coincide. The
imagined point is located somewhere behind your neck and the
should in normal cases be set to 0.3 m (1.0 feet).
of the
line
value
Since the Vertex IV will presume that the transponder T3 is placed directly under the aimed height of the
measuring object (when the object is equal to a tree), a half of the objects diameter should be added to the
Pivot Offset. This compensates for the diminishment of the tree top. When measuring tree heights, it is
recommended to add half the average diameter in the area, for improved accuracy.
T.HEIGHT (Transponder height)
Change the value with the arrow keys and confirm with ON. The value is set in metric/feet. T.HEIGHT is
the height where the transponder is set, the reference height for the measuring unit. The Vertex IV adds the
preset T. HEIGHT to the measured height. Normal breast height value is set to 1.3 m (4.5 ft).
M.DIST (Manual distance)
This function is useful when measuring without the transponder. Change value with the
arrow keys and confirm with the ON key. The value is shown in metric or feet. M. DIST
is the manual distance to the reference point on the object where the height is measured.
Make sure that the T.HEIGHT is correctly set, i.e. the height to the chosen reference
point.
To perform any of the operations described below, ensure a battery in placed in the T3 properly and keep the
measuring unit’s loudspeaker towards the T3’s loudspeaker.
1.3 Turning the T3 on and off
The T3 has no switch and the Vertex is used as a remote control to turn T3 off and on. For both turning the
T3 on and off, turn on the Vertex IV, press any of the arrow keys to go to the CALIBRATE page and press
ON to enter into calibration and do as follows:
To turn T3 ON
Press ON until two signals beeps from the T3.
To turn T3 OFF
Press ON until four signals beeps from the T3.
The T3 is equipped with an audible signal that tells if the transponder is activated or not. Once turned on, the
T3 Transponder stays activated for approximately 20 minutes.
1.4 Calibration
To increase and optimize the measuring accuracy, the instrument should be calibrated on a regular basis.
The measuring fault can be made permanent if the instrument is calibrated before reaching the correct
current temperature. Therefore, when calibrating, it is of utmost importance that the instrument has been
given enough time to stabilize at ambient temperature.
Use a measuring tape to measure the exact distance of 10.0 m (32.8 feet) between the T3 and the Vertex
front.
Press ON to start the Vertex instrument, step in the menu to
CALIBRATE and press ON. The instrument will calibrate to
10 m, automatically exit from the calibration and display the
CALIBRATE page.
Again, it is important to give the instrument approximately 10 minutes to set to the correct temperature
before calibrating.
1.5 Measuring tree height with transponder T3
Start the transponder T3 and place it on the tree to be measured. Note that the
transponder should be placed at the T.HEIGHT (transponder height) that has been
determined in the settings menu. Walk a suitable distance from the object – for
optimal result accuracy, a distance equal to the approximate tree height.
T3 at the T.HEIGHT
above the ground
level
1. Press ON to start the Vertex, scroll to the HEIGHT page and aim at the transponder. Keep pressing
ON until the cross hair sight goes out momentarily. Now release ON. The Vertex has measured the
distance, the angle and the horizontal distance to the transponder.
2. Aim at the height to measure with the sight cross blinking. Press ON until the cross hair disappears.
The height of the tree is locked and displayed.
1.6 Detecting the trees on the edge (circumference) of a circular plot
When the T3 is used with the adapter
(graduated staff), the ultrasound is spread and it
possible to take measurement from any
direction. This is particularly useful when
working in circular plots, where the distance
from the plot centre to trees within a defined
circle should be measured.
radius of the circular
plot adjusted according
to the terrain slope as
given by Vertex/DME
reading
is
Tree
Tree
outside
inside
the plot
the plot
To determine the radius in case of a circular
Plot centre
plot, first fix the T3 at T. HEIGHT at the centre
of
the plot. Then press the DME key (left arrow key) when the Vertex IV is turned off. The distance between
the Vertex IV and the T3, is presented in the Vertex display. Now move away from the centre until the
distance reading on the Vertex equals to the radius of the circular plot (in case of sloping terrain, the radius
should be adjusted according to the slope). As the Vertex gives reading of the shortest distance, make sure
you hold the Vertex at T.HEIGHT above the ground level while taking Vertex reading. Now you can
determine whether the surrounding trees are within or outside the circular plot.
1.7 Important precautions to take while using the Vertex IV
 The Vertex IV uses ultra sonic signals to determine distances. Humidity, air pressure, surrounding
noise and, above all, the temperature can affect the range and extension of the ultra sonic signals.
 In some cases, distances of 50 meters and greater can be measured without problems, and in other
cases, the maximum distance can be shorter than 30 meters.
 Check your instrument daily and recalibrate if necessary. Do not touch the temperature sensor at the
front of the instrument (the metal knob between the sight and the loudspeaker) and never calibrate
the instrument before it has reached ambient temperature.
 When measuring heights, it is important to hold the instrument as straight as possible.
For further information and technical specifications of the set of the equipments, consult the user manual.
2. Spherical Densiometer
2.1 Description
A spherical densiometer is common yet simple instrument for measuring forest overstory density or canopy
cover. The instrument has reflective spherical surface divided into 16 equispaced square grids. When the
instrument is taken under forest canopy, the images of overhead crown can be seen in mirror and the amount
of canopy coverage is estimated based on proportion of the mirror surface reflecting the overstory crown.
2.2 Estimating canopy cover using densiometer
Although it is ideal to take canopy cover measurements in each sample plot, but depending on resources
availability canopy measurements can be taken in skipped in several plots. However, the plots where canopy
measurements are taken should be allocated in proportion to the area of different strata. Prior to taking the
canopy cover measurements, all trees should be already tagged, and diameter at breast height (DBH)
measured. This measurement procedure can be efficiently handled by one person using the following
procedure.
1) Hold the densitometer far enough away from your body so that your head is just outside the grid (3045 cm away). Maintain the densiometer approximately at elbow height. Keep the densiometer
instrument leveled, as indicated by the round level in the lower right hand corner.
2) Count the number of canopy opening squares. If there are squares that are only partially filled, these
can be added to make a complete square. Note that there are a total of 24 squares of 3 x 3 mm in the
grid. Each square represents an area of canopy opening (sky image or unfilled squares) or canopy
cover (vegetation image or filled squares). For deciduous trees in late fall to winter, when trees have
no leaves, the crown area needs to be visualized for a proper reading. Only squares that are
completely free of branches should be counted as sky.
3) Note down the total number of squares that are filled on the sampling sheet.
4) The operator can than count the number of dots representing the smaller (1/8’’ * 1/8’’) square areas
of CANOPY OPENINGS, up to a total of 96.
5) The numbrer detrmined is then multiplyied by 1.04 to obtain the percent of overhead area NOT
OCCUPIED by canopy. The difference between this percentage and 100% is the estimated overstory
density in percent.
6) Crown cover measurements are implemented at five points on the plot, i.e. at the plot centre and at
the cardinal points (N, E, S and W) 20 meters apart from the plot centre and then averaged.
Annex VIII
Field method for Forest, NTFPs and biodiversity survey
This method is aimed to incorporate forest, NTFPs, ToF and wildlife survey techniques in the forested areas
of Nepal. This also tried to incorporate the recent and previous survey techniques applied for similar works
which seems to useful for FRA Nepal.
A. Preparation of habitat map
Techniques: A preliminary habitat map will be prepared by using Satellite Imageries and GIS. The smallest
area distinguished as a habitat will be 0.5 ha (>20 m width). The resulting habitat types will consist of
mosaic of little and highly disturbed types, depending on site-specific human impacts in the past. Types of
habitats will be categorised in: a) forest, b) Shrubland/scrubland, c) Wetland, and d) Grasslands. Main data
on floristic composition, NTFPs and biodiversity will be collected directly during field sampling by
applying different methods described in following pages. The habitats distinguished from the Satellite
Imageries will be surveyed to find-out the composition & dominant species in the tree layer, prominence
value of the understory layer and ground layer.
Aim: This techniques will be helpful to assess ecological diversity in terms of: Physiographic zone (terai,
siwalik, mid mountain, high mountains, and high Himalaya), ecosystems (forests, shrubland/scrubland,
savana, grassland, wetland and deserts), and broad classification of habitats (forest types, grassland types,
wetland types and shrub/scrubland types). It will also provide the information on Tree outside Forest (ToF).
B. Sampling
Basic data to calculate phyto-sociological parameters of the different habitat types will be collected by
stratified sampling procedures. The distribution of the cluster will be identified by randomizing the number
laying systematic sampling grids of 4*4 kilometre for the whole country.
Number of sampling plots
The total forest area of Nepal is 4.27 million ha and scrubland 1.56 million ha. The minimum forest covered
area subject to national FRA is 5.83 million ha resulting in 9183 first stage clusters in the field while using 4
x 4 km grids. By applying the probability of wooded sample points, around one fourth of these clusters will
be measured in the field (2-Phase sampling) equalling to 400 clusters.
The field clusters will be two sets of groups of 6 sample plots. The starting sample plot (the most southwestern and north-eastern ones) will be considered as first plots. All the plots in one cluster will be
established and measured as permanent sample plots. The distance between other sample plots from these
core plots will be 150 m and 300 m. The straight line between these plots will be considered as transects for
line inventory. Data on biodiversity will be collected from these transects. The shape of sample plots will be
circular . They will be co-centric in nature having four (4) co-centric circles with various radiuses.
C. Data collection from community
Techniques: Simple Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) method will be applied to gather more information
on biodiversity, NTFPs, and ToF. The techniques included Key informant survey and Focused Group
Discussion (FGD) by using semi-structured questionnaire. Focused Group Discussion program will be
organized at local level by incorporating key informants and knowledgeable persons to gather information
about the ToF, NTFPs and wildlife (flagship species and large mammals). General discussion and some
visual photographs will also be used to attract people and gather more information. To find-out the most
important NTFPs in the local area the participants will ask individually to mark the five main plants which
they think most useful for them. Priority of individual NTFPs species at local level will be distinguished by
counting the mark in individual species.
Aim: Main intention of this method will be to gather specific information about the distribution of wildlife,
NTFPs and ToF. This method will help to find-out the distribution of large wildlife in the specific area and
NTFPs which cannot be recorded during the survey time. Thus, this is quite useful method to validate and
backstop the information collected from the survey.
D. Line inventory
Techniques: Line inventory will be conducted between two circular plots in one cluster. The main focus of
the line inventory will be to get primary information on wildlife (flagship species and large mammals). Both
direct observation and indirect evidences will be used to gather information on wildlife. The information
will be recorded in the field data forms
Aim: The main aim of this survey is to get data on wildlife (large mammals & flagship species).
E. Data analysis
Collected data will be grouped on the basis of prepared habitat maps. The data will be analysed to find the
species composition/plant sociology of the particular habitat/forest types.
Name of each forest type will be determined by ordering the Importance Values of each tree species.
Importance Value will be obtained by summation of the relative frequency, relative density, and relative
dominance (Krebs 1994). Relative dominance of trees will be determined by calculating the basal area. The
coverage of ground flora will be calculated by converting the recorded cover percentage to midpoint cover
classes according to Zobel et al. 1987. In case of grassland and scrubland Prominence values (Dinerstein
1979) will be used for classification:
PVx = Cx ( fx )
PVx = Prominence value for species x
Cx = Mean percent cover of species x
fx = Frequency of species x
By incorporating the wildlife related data on satellite images and habitat classification it will provide prime
map for distribution of large wildlife in the different areas/habitat of this country. The direct and indirect
evidences will be analysed to prepare the species diversity of flagship wildlife and large mammals. Different
types of survey forms will be used for the survey. Photo documentation of the indirect evidences and
directly observed wildlife will be provided later.