This document summarizes a study analyzing snags and dead woody debris in forest plots known as the Kifer Plots. The Kifer Plots were previously managed as a tree farm and contain varying tree stand structures compared to other plots in the forest. The study involved labeling and collecting data on snags and dead woody debris, including species, size, and decay class. Preliminary results found higher levels of dead wood in certain plots, possibly due to laminated root rot disease or past timber harvesting. More long-term research is needed to understand changes occurring in the forest stand structures over time.
The study examined the home range of the bark scorpion Centruroides vittatus in Laredo, Texas using mark-recapture methods from 2009-2010. A total of 31 scorpions were collected and marked. The minimum convex polygon and local convex hull methods were used to estimate home range sizes. Males were found to have significantly larger home ranges and travel greater distances than females. Recapture rates were around 50% overall. The study provided a basis for further examining factors that influence scorpion home range sizes and patterns of microhabitat use.
Ohio Avian Research Conference Talk Oct 2014Sarah Landuyt
This study compared grassland bird populations and vegetation composition between two reclaimed surface mine sites in southeastern Ohio called Zion Ridge and the Southern Sector. Point count surveys found higher numbers of Henslow's Sparrows and Bobolinks in the Southern Sector, which had thicker grasses and herbs like blue grass and bird's foot trefoil. Grasshopper Sparrows were more common at Zion Ridge, where shorter grasses like fescue and brome dominated. Differences in restoration efforts led to variation in vegetation that helps explain the divergent bird species found at each site.
TN: Improving Your Backyard Wildlife HabitatSotirakou964
This document provides guidance on improving backyard wildlife habitat. It discusses wildlife habitat needs including food, cover, water and space. It emphasizes the importance of diversity, edge habitat where different habitats meet, and vertical structure with different vegetation layers. The document provides tables of native plants to attract wildlife and recommendations for shelter, feeders, nest boxes, and water sources. The overall goal is to understand wildlife needs and create a varied backyard habitat that meets requirements for different species.
The document examines the characteristics of suitable reproductive habitat for Harpy Eagles in Darién Province, Panama. Researchers analyzed forest attributes around nesting and control trees, including tree taxonomic richness, height variability, and density. Logistic regression models found the highest probability of nesting was correlated with high taxonomic richness, variability in tree heights between 4-57 meters, and low overall tree density. These forest attributes likely provide prey diversity, flight space for juveniles, and suitable areas for hunting. The study provides useful information for conservation management and protection of both Harpy Eagles and rainforest biodiversity.
By failing to plan the dissertation, one is instead planning to fail it. Learn about the steps in planning the dissertation project from creating an outline, calendar timeline, and forming a committee.
The document discusses the concepts of habitat and niche. It defines habitat as the place where an organism lives, while niche refers to an organism's role in its environment. Some key points:
- Habitat can be similar for different organisms, but niches differ as organisms may have different trophic positions (what they eat).
- Niche includes spatial/habitat, trophic, and multidimensional components related to various environmental factors.
- Niche breadth refers to how widely an organism utilizes resources, while niche overlap measures how often species are found together, indicating competition.
- Gause's competitive exclusion principle states that two species cannot coexist if their niches are identical.
Above and belowground biomass in a brazilian cerradotamielkhan
This document summarizes a study that estimated aboveground and belowground biomass in a Brazilian Cerrado savanna. Specifically:
- The study destructively sampled 120 trees from 18 species to develop allometric equations relating tree biomass to diameter and wood density.
- Mean aboveground biomass was estimated to be 62,965.5 kg/ha with belowground biomass accounting for 37,501.8 kg/ha.
- The best-fit model for individual tree aboveground biomass included diameter and wood density and explained 89.8% of variation. A stand-level model using basal area explained 93.4% of variation.
This document outlines a station activity to promote student choice in the classroom. Participants will spend 10 minutes reading an article on strategies for student choice. They will then collaborate with others to create a resource with examples of how teachers can promote student choice. Finally, participants will reflect on lessons they have taught or will teach, and identify ways to incorporate more student choice and give students more voice in their learning.
The study examined the home range of the bark scorpion Centruroides vittatus in Laredo, Texas using mark-recapture methods from 2009-2010. A total of 31 scorpions were collected and marked. The minimum convex polygon and local convex hull methods were used to estimate home range sizes. Males were found to have significantly larger home ranges and travel greater distances than females. Recapture rates were around 50% overall. The study provided a basis for further examining factors that influence scorpion home range sizes and patterns of microhabitat use.
Ohio Avian Research Conference Talk Oct 2014Sarah Landuyt
This study compared grassland bird populations and vegetation composition between two reclaimed surface mine sites in southeastern Ohio called Zion Ridge and the Southern Sector. Point count surveys found higher numbers of Henslow's Sparrows and Bobolinks in the Southern Sector, which had thicker grasses and herbs like blue grass and bird's foot trefoil. Grasshopper Sparrows were more common at Zion Ridge, where shorter grasses like fescue and brome dominated. Differences in restoration efforts led to variation in vegetation that helps explain the divergent bird species found at each site.
TN: Improving Your Backyard Wildlife HabitatSotirakou964
This document provides guidance on improving backyard wildlife habitat. It discusses wildlife habitat needs including food, cover, water and space. It emphasizes the importance of diversity, edge habitat where different habitats meet, and vertical structure with different vegetation layers. The document provides tables of native plants to attract wildlife and recommendations for shelter, feeders, nest boxes, and water sources. The overall goal is to understand wildlife needs and create a varied backyard habitat that meets requirements for different species.
The document examines the characteristics of suitable reproductive habitat for Harpy Eagles in Darién Province, Panama. Researchers analyzed forest attributes around nesting and control trees, including tree taxonomic richness, height variability, and density. Logistic regression models found the highest probability of nesting was correlated with high taxonomic richness, variability in tree heights between 4-57 meters, and low overall tree density. These forest attributes likely provide prey diversity, flight space for juveniles, and suitable areas for hunting. The study provides useful information for conservation management and protection of both Harpy Eagles and rainforest biodiversity.
By failing to plan the dissertation, one is instead planning to fail it. Learn about the steps in planning the dissertation project from creating an outline, calendar timeline, and forming a committee.
The document discusses the concepts of habitat and niche. It defines habitat as the place where an organism lives, while niche refers to an organism's role in its environment. Some key points:
- Habitat can be similar for different organisms, but niches differ as organisms may have different trophic positions (what they eat).
- Niche includes spatial/habitat, trophic, and multidimensional components related to various environmental factors.
- Niche breadth refers to how widely an organism utilizes resources, while niche overlap measures how often species are found together, indicating competition.
- Gause's competitive exclusion principle states that two species cannot coexist if their niches are identical.
Above and belowground biomass in a brazilian cerradotamielkhan
This document summarizes a study that estimated aboveground and belowground biomass in a Brazilian Cerrado savanna. Specifically:
- The study destructively sampled 120 trees from 18 species to develop allometric equations relating tree biomass to diameter and wood density.
- Mean aboveground biomass was estimated to be 62,965.5 kg/ha with belowground biomass accounting for 37,501.8 kg/ha.
- The best-fit model for individual tree aboveground biomass included diameter and wood density and explained 89.8% of variation. A stand-level model using basal area explained 93.4% of variation.
This document outlines a station activity to promote student choice in the classroom. Participants will spend 10 minutes reading an article on strategies for student choice. They will then collaborate with others to create a resource with examples of how teachers can promote student choice. Finally, participants will reflect on lessons they have taught or will teach, and identify ways to incorporate more student choice and give students more voice in their learning.
This document provides guidance on developing effective questioning strategies when designing lessons. It emphasizes the importance of intentionally planning questions that develop higher-order thinking skills in students. The goals are to help teachers understand how the questions they ask fit on the cognitive growth target scale, develop questioning strategies to extend student thinking, and use resources to incorporate cognitive growth targets into classroom instruction. Participants are guided through an activity where they analyze and categorize questions from a recent lesson according to the cognitive growth targets.
This document summarizes the 25 year history of The Building Intelligence Group, a New Zealand project management firm. Some key points:
- The Building Intelligence Group was founded in 1989 and has since delivered hundreds of projects across many sectors and locations in New Zealand.
- Notable projects include the Supreme Court of New Zealand, the New Zealand War Memorial in London, and the proposed Canterbury Earthquake Memorial.
- The company has four offices around New Zealand and a team of passionate professionals who have helped clients successfully complete projects.
- As the company celebrates its 25th anniversary, it looks back on accomplishments and milestones while looking forward to continuing to add value to clients' projects.
This document provides the 2014 monitoring report for the SR 500/I-205 Interchange Burnt Bridge East Mitigation Site. Key points:
- The site is a 0.25-acre wetland creation project along Burnt Bridge Creek to enhance wetland/riparian habitat and functions.
- Performance standards evaluate vegetation development, including tree/shrub densities and species diversity. Weed cover is also monitored.
- 2014 monitoring found most standards were met regarding native plant densities and diversity in scrub-shrub and buffer areas.
- Reed canarygrass and Himalayan blackberry cover were below thresholds. Ongoing weed control is recommended to maintain standards.
The document provides information about guesthouses located in Copșa Mare, a unique Saxon village near Biertan, Romania. It summarizes that the guesthouses are close together and have a traditional Saxon style with tile roofs and pastel colors. Details are then given on the rooms available at each guesthouse - the White House has two loft rooms, the Red House has one room, the Yellow House has one suite, and the Green House has one apartment. Nightly room rates are provided along with information on meals. Finally, activities are listed that visitors can enjoy like visiting nearby churches and villages, farms, museums, and doing outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and cycling.
Dozens of educators and business professionals from four counties in Pennsylvania participated in an inaugural STEM conference hosted by several local education organizations at Cameron County High School. The keynote speaker discussed how advances in 3D printing will lead to more customized products. Teachers then attended breakout sessions demonstrating how to incorporate STEM into classrooms through activities like building robots, bridges, and programming devices. A business panel highlighted local STEM careers and innovation. Attendees received a STEM resource kit and prizes. Plans are underway to make the STEM conference an annual event.
The document compares changes in seabird phenology occurring in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Seabird phenology varies based on environmental factors like location and species. In the Arctic, threats include saltwater intrusion due to melting sea ice and lack of understanding of some species' distributions. Population dynamics of some Arctic seabird species fluctuate with sea surface temperature and ice extent. In the Antarctic, changes in prey availability due to sea ice and temperature influence seabird phenology. Differences in the Arctic and Antarctic regions that affect seabirds include the presence of non-flying seabirds in Antarctica and where the birds live and breed.
The Prestige Boutique and Restaurant is located in Pestera village in the Piatra Craiului National Park. It offers stylish rooms decorated with private bathrooms and satellite TV. Facilities include a restaurant with fireplace and terrace overlooking the mountains. Room types include a double room with Christmas package for 100 euros, a villa room for 70 euros, and a normal double room for 80 euros. Guests are attracted by the low prices and amenities like free parking, WiFi, and shuttle service.
Presentasi mengenai internet, LAN, WAN, MAN, topologi bintang, bus, dan cincin dlaam Bahasa Indonesia
DIbuat oleh:Giancarlos Yapiter, Steve Hansen, Jonathan Kelvin Santoso/7C, IPH Schools, tahun ajaran 2014-2015
Unraveling Ebola One Tweet at a Time: Dynamic Network Analysis of an Ebola-Re...Paragon_Science_Inc
A sample of 2.5M tweets mentioning "Ebola" was collected during November 5-12, 2014. The titles of the 6227 web pages referenced by the tweets were used to cluster the web pages into roughly 100 topics. Then Paragon Science's patented dynamic anomaly detection software (http://www.paragonscience.com/intellectual_property.htm) then identified the top five most-anomalous topics. This research demonstrates how these techniques allow us to focus attention quickly on viral, emerging topics. A video showing an animation of those anomalous topics and the key related web pages for every hour of that week in November 2014 is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEQ02hv4Xjw.
This presentation examines how climate change affects the phenology, or timing of lifecycle events, of seabirds. The presenter's thesis is that climate change impacts seabird phenology differently depending on location and species. Several abiotic climate variables, such as sea temperature, air temperature, and sea ice extent, can influence seabird phenology by affecting prey availability, migration timing, breeding timing, and asynchrony with prey. Data shows some Antarctic seabird species are breeding later in response to climate change, while responses vary between short- and long-lived species and locations. More research is needed to fully understand these complex relationships.
Finding Emerging Topics Using Chaos and Community Detection in Social Media G...Paragon_Science_Inc
In this talk, we describe our recent work in the analysis of Twitter-based network graphs, including the Ebola crisis in 2014 and the stock market in 2015.
The document summarizes the activities and findings of the "Think in green" group regarding forests and trees. It includes fact files about earthworms and forest soil layers. It also details tree anatomy, how to determine a tree's age from its rings, different types of forest and seed dispersal methods. Photos are included of various trees and forest colors/shapes. Group members assessed what they learned about forests from the activities.
Jonathan Cox, Isle of Wight Recorders Conference 2017Matthew Chatfield
Briddlesford is a 158 ha site that has undergone extensive biological recording and conservation management. Vegetation and habitat surveys in the 1980s led to its designation as a SSSI in 1986. Surveys have found rich botanical diversity including 65 ancient woodland plant species. Red squirrel monitoring shows stable populations of around 100 squirrels. Dormice have been surveyed since 1996 as part of a national program. A 2002 bat survey discovered an important maternity colony of 57 Bechstein's bats, leading to SAC designation. Invertebrate surveys in 2002 and 2012 found over 650 species including rare moths and beetles. Bird surveys show increases in some woodland edge species but declines in others. Ongo
Obstacle Size and Trail–Clearing Activity in Leaf–Cutter Ants, Atta colombicaMaxson Jarecki
This study found that there is a power curve relationship between the length of leaf obstacles placed on Atta colombica ant trails and the time taken by the ants to remove the obstacles. Leaf obstacles over 5cm in length were cut into pieces using the same techniques the ants use for leaf harvesting. Though there were no significant differences found between forests with different rainfall levels or between morning and afternoon time periods, the small sample size means a larger study could reveal differences based on humidity, temperature, and other microclimate variables. Further research is needed to fully examine the effects of these factors on individual ant obstacle removal rates.
Obstacle Size and Trail–Clearing Activity in Leaf–Cutter Ants, Atta colombicaMaxson Jarecki
This study found that there is a power curve relationship between the length of leaf obstacles placed on Atta colombica ant trails and the time taken by the ants to remove the obstacles. Leaf obstacles over 5cm in length were cut into pieces using the same techniques the ants use for leaf harvesting. Though there were no significant differences found between forests with different rainfall levels or between morning and afternoon time periods, the small sample size means a larger study could reveal differences based on humidity, temperature, and other microclimate variables. Further research is needed to fully examine the effects of these factors on individual ant obstacle removal rates.
1. The document provides information on a classroom lesson plan about ecological succession. It includes pre-lesson activities, such as having students debate the impacts of forest fires. It also describes a field activity where students will observe and record different succession stages in a forest.
2. After collecting data in the forest, students will create a presentation on ecological succession. They will use their photos and observations to describe the four stages of succession and discuss the role of succession in a forest environment. Their presentation will be graded based on visual elements, narrative elements, and presentation style.
THE EFFECTS OF CLEARCUT SIZE ON THE BIRD COMMUNITY IN THE SECOND COLLEGE GRANTjoshmooney
Abstract. This study examines the effects of forest opening (clearcut) size on the surrounding forest-bird community with the objective of offering management suggestions for foresters who employ the clearcut method. I hypothesized that large and small clearcuts would have different effects on the forest-bird assemblage associated with each. I used the point-count method to assess bird abundance in clearcuts, on the edges, and 100 m into the forest from the edges of large and small clearcuts. I found that Neotropical migrant birds and forest-interior birds were the most affected by large clearcuts showing significantly lower abundance in forest areas 100 m from large clearcut edges than in forest areas 100 m from small clearcuts. Edge-open birds were more abundant in large clearcut openings and edges than in small clearcut openings and edges. Blue jays (an avian nest predator) were more abundant on the edges of large clearcuts than on the edges of small clearcuts. A recent study found that forest-interior bird abundance levels off after 100 m distance from small (0.4 ha) forest openings. This result combined with my findings suggest that small openings in the Second College Grant represent less of a disturbance to Neotropical migrants and forest-interior birds. Additionally, given higher abundances of an avian nest predator in large clearcuts, reproductive success could be much lower in areas associated with large clearcuts. Some species such as the White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis), however preferred large clearcuts suggesting that there are some benefits to overall bird abundance by including large clearcuts in a managed landscape.
The document summarizes the coniferous plant life found in the Lake Tahoe basin. It identifies the main conifer families of pine and cypress that are native to the area. Key pine species discussed include white fir, red fir, Jeffrey pine, and lodgepole pine. Incense-cedar is also examined as part of the cypress family. The importance of these conifers to the local ecosystem is addressed, as well as their evolutionary history and adaptations. Tree core samples were analyzed to determine tree ages and growth patterns. Granite and volcanic rock formations are also briefly described.
This study analyzed a sediment core from Twin Lakes, Colorado to reconstruct the historical ecology of the area. Analysis identified fir and spruce needles as well as a charcoal record indicating past fires. The researcher enjoyed conducting the lab work and intends to pursue more research in plant science. Additional analysis of the core, such as carbon dating, could provide a more accurate chronology and insight into changes in bryophyte and sedge populations over time.
The document summarizes the coniferous plant life found in the Lake Tahoe basin. It identifies the main conifer families of pine and cypress that are native to the area. Key pine species discussed include white fir, red fir, Jeffrey pine, and lodgepole pine. Incense-cedar is also examined as part of the cypress family. The importance of these conifers to the local ecosystem is addressed, as well as their evolutionary history and adaptations. Core samples were taken from trees to analyze growth patterns. Granite and volcanic rock formations are also briefly described.
This document provides guidance on developing effective questioning strategies when designing lessons. It emphasizes the importance of intentionally planning questions that develop higher-order thinking skills in students. The goals are to help teachers understand how the questions they ask fit on the cognitive growth target scale, develop questioning strategies to extend student thinking, and use resources to incorporate cognitive growth targets into classroom instruction. Participants are guided through an activity where they analyze and categorize questions from a recent lesson according to the cognitive growth targets.
This document summarizes the 25 year history of The Building Intelligence Group, a New Zealand project management firm. Some key points:
- The Building Intelligence Group was founded in 1989 and has since delivered hundreds of projects across many sectors and locations in New Zealand.
- Notable projects include the Supreme Court of New Zealand, the New Zealand War Memorial in London, and the proposed Canterbury Earthquake Memorial.
- The company has four offices around New Zealand and a team of passionate professionals who have helped clients successfully complete projects.
- As the company celebrates its 25th anniversary, it looks back on accomplishments and milestones while looking forward to continuing to add value to clients' projects.
This document provides the 2014 monitoring report for the SR 500/I-205 Interchange Burnt Bridge East Mitigation Site. Key points:
- The site is a 0.25-acre wetland creation project along Burnt Bridge Creek to enhance wetland/riparian habitat and functions.
- Performance standards evaluate vegetation development, including tree/shrub densities and species diversity. Weed cover is also monitored.
- 2014 monitoring found most standards were met regarding native plant densities and diversity in scrub-shrub and buffer areas.
- Reed canarygrass and Himalayan blackberry cover were below thresholds. Ongoing weed control is recommended to maintain standards.
The document provides information about guesthouses located in Copșa Mare, a unique Saxon village near Biertan, Romania. It summarizes that the guesthouses are close together and have a traditional Saxon style with tile roofs and pastel colors. Details are then given on the rooms available at each guesthouse - the White House has two loft rooms, the Red House has one room, the Yellow House has one suite, and the Green House has one apartment. Nightly room rates are provided along with information on meals. Finally, activities are listed that visitors can enjoy like visiting nearby churches and villages, farms, museums, and doing outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and cycling.
Dozens of educators and business professionals from four counties in Pennsylvania participated in an inaugural STEM conference hosted by several local education organizations at Cameron County High School. The keynote speaker discussed how advances in 3D printing will lead to more customized products. Teachers then attended breakout sessions demonstrating how to incorporate STEM into classrooms through activities like building robots, bridges, and programming devices. A business panel highlighted local STEM careers and innovation. Attendees received a STEM resource kit and prizes. Plans are underway to make the STEM conference an annual event.
The document compares changes in seabird phenology occurring in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Seabird phenology varies based on environmental factors like location and species. In the Arctic, threats include saltwater intrusion due to melting sea ice and lack of understanding of some species' distributions. Population dynamics of some Arctic seabird species fluctuate with sea surface temperature and ice extent. In the Antarctic, changes in prey availability due to sea ice and temperature influence seabird phenology. Differences in the Arctic and Antarctic regions that affect seabirds include the presence of non-flying seabirds in Antarctica and where the birds live and breed.
The Prestige Boutique and Restaurant is located in Pestera village in the Piatra Craiului National Park. It offers stylish rooms decorated with private bathrooms and satellite TV. Facilities include a restaurant with fireplace and terrace overlooking the mountains. Room types include a double room with Christmas package for 100 euros, a villa room for 70 euros, and a normal double room for 80 euros. Guests are attracted by the low prices and amenities like free parking, WiFi, and shuttle service.
Presentasi mengenai internet, LAN, WAN, MAN, topologi bintang, bus, dan cincin dlaam Bahasa Indonesia
DIbuat oleh:Giancarlos Yapiter, Steve Hansen, Jonathan Kelvin Santoso/7C, IPH Schools, tahun ajaran 2014-2015
Unraveling Ebola One Tweet at a Time: Dynamic Network Analysis of an Ebola-Re...Paragon_Science_Inc
A sample of 2.5M tweets mentioning "Ebola" was collected during November 5-12, 2014. The titles of the 6227 web pages referenced by the tweets were used to cluster the web pages into roughly 100 topics. Then Paragon Science's patented dynamic anomaly detection software (http://www.paragonscience.com/intellectual_property.htm) then identified the top five most-anomalous topics. This research demonstrates how these techniques allow us to focus attention quickly on viral, emerging topics. A video showing an animation of those anomalous topics and the key related web pages for every hour of that week in November 2014 is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEQ02hv4Xjw.
This presentation examines how climate change affects the phenology, or timing of lifecycle events, of seabirds. The presenter's thesis is that climate change impacts seabird phenology differently depending on location and species. Several abiotic climate variables, such as sea temperature, air temperature, and sea ice extent, can influence seabird phenology by affecting prey availability, migration timing, breeding timing, and asynchrony with prey. Data shows some Antarctic seabird species are breeding later in response to climate change, while responses vary between short- and long-lived species and locations. More research is needed to fully understand these complex relationships.
Finding Emerging Topics Using Chaos and Community Detection in Social Media G...Paragon_Science_Inc
In this talk, we describe our recent work in the analysis of Twitter-based network graphs, including the Ebola crisis in 2014 and the stock market in 2015.
The document summarizes the activities and findings of the "Think in green" group regarding forests and trees. It includes fact files about earthworms and forest soil layers. It also details tree anatomy, how to determine a tree's age from its rings, different types of forest and seed dispersal methods. Photos are included of various trees and forest colors/shapes. Group members assessed what they learned about forests from the activities.
Jonathan Cox, Isle of Wight Recorders Conference 2017Matthew Chatfield
Briddlesford is a 158 ha site that has undergone extensive biological recording and conservation management. Vegetation and habitat surveys in the 1980s led to its designation as a SSSI in 1986. Surveys have found rich botanical diversity including 65 ancient woodland plant species. Red squirrel monitoring shows stable populations of around 100 squirrels. Dormice have been surveyed since 1996 as part of a national program. A 2002 bat survey discovered an important maternity colony of 57 Bechstein's bats, leading to SAC designation. Invertebrate surveys in 2002 and 2012 found over 650 species including rare moths and beetles. Bird surveys show increases in some woodland edge species but declines in others. Ongo
Obstacle Size and Trail–Clearing Activity in Leaf–Cutter Ants, Atta colombicaMaxson Jarecki
This study found that there is a power curve relationship between the length of leaf obstacles placed on Atta colombica ant trails and the time taken by the ants to remove the obstacles. Leaf obstacles over 5cm in length were cut into pieces using the same techniques the ants use for leaf harvesting. Though there were no significant differences found between forests with different rainfall levels or between morning and afternoon time periods, the small sample size means a larger study could reveal differences based on humidity, temperature, and other microclimate variables. Further research is needed to fully examine the effects of these factors on individual ant obstacle removal rates.
Obstacle Size and Trail–Clearing Activity in Leaf–Cutter Ants, Atta colombicaMaxson Jarecki
This study found that there is a power curve relationship between the length of leaf obstacles placed on Atta colombica ant trails and the time taken by the ants to remove the obstacles. Leaf obstacles over 5cm in length were cut into pieces using the same techniques the ants use for leaf harvesting. Though there were no significant differences found between forests with different rainfall levels or between morning and afternoon time periods, the small sample size means a larger study could reveal differences based on humidity, temperature, and other microclimate variables. Further research is needed to fully examine the effects of these factors on individual ant obstacle removal rates.
1. The document provides information on a classroom lesson plan about ecological succession. It includes pre-lesson activities, such as having students debate the impacts of forest fires. It also describes a field activity where students will observe and record different succession stages in a forest.
2. After collecting data in the forest, students will create a presentation on ecological succession. They will use their photos and observations to describe the four stages of succession and discuss the role of succession in a forest environment. Their presentation will be graded based on visual elements, narrative elements, and presentation style.
THE EFFECTS OF CLEARCUT SIZE ON THE BIRD COMMUNITY IN THE SECOND COLLEGE GRANTjoshmooney
Abstract. This study examines the effects of forest opening (clearcut) size on the surrounding forest-bird community with the objective of offering management suggestions for foresters who employ the clearcut method. I hypothesized that large and small clearcuts would have different effects on the forest-bird assemblage associated with each. I used the point-count method to assess bird abundance in clearcuts, on the edges, and 100 m into the forest from the edges of large and small clearcuts. I found that Neotropical migrant birds and forest-interior birds were the most affected by large clearcuts showing significantly lower abundance in forest areas 100 m from large clearcut edges than in forest areas 100 m from small clearcuts. Edge-open birds were more abundant in large clearcut openings and edges than in small clearcut openings and edges. Blue jays (an avian nest predator) were more abundant on the edges of large clearcuts than on the edges of small clearcuts. A recent study found that forest-interior bird abundance levels off after 100 m distance from small (0.4 ha) forest openings. This result combined with my findings suggest that small openings in the Second College Grant represent less of a disturbance to Neotropical migrants and forest-interior birds. Additionally, given higher abundances of an avian nest predator in large clearcuts, reproductive success could be much lower in areas associated with large clearcuts. Some species such as the White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis), however preferred large clearcuts suggesting that there are some benefits to overall bird abundance by including large clearcuts in a managed landscape.
The document summarizes the coniferous plant life found in the Lake Tahoe basin. It identifies the main conifer families of pine and cypress that are native to the area. Key pine species discussed include white fir, red fir, Jeffrey pine, and lodgepole pine. Incense-cedar is also examined as part of the cypress family. The importance of these conifers to the local ecosystem is addressed, as well as their evolutionary history and adaptations. Tree core samples were analyzed to determine tree ages and growth patterns. Granite and volcanic rock formations are also briefly described.
This study analyzed a sediment core from Twin Lakes, Colorado to reconstruct the historical ecology of the area. Analysis identified fir and spruce needles as well as a charcoal record indicating past fires. The researcher enjoyed conducting the lab work and intends to pursue more research in plant science. Additional analysis of the core, such as carbon dating, could provide a more accurate chronology and insight into changes in bryophyte and sedge populations over time.
The document summarizes the coniferous plant life found in the Lake Tahoe basin. It identifies the main conifer families of pine and cypress that are native to the area. Key pine species discussed include white fir, red fir, Jeffrey pine, and lodgepole pine. Incense-cedar is also examined as part of the cypress family. The importance of these conifers to the local ecosystem is addressed, as well as their evolutionary history and adaptations. Core samples were taken from trees to analyze growth patterns. Granite and volcanic rock formations are also briefly described.
The document summarizes a study examining the vegetation that has established over four years on a fauna overpass in Brisbane, Australia. Researchers surveyed plant species present on the overpass and compared it to adjacent forest vegetation. They found 45 plant species on the overpass, with over half planted but many self-sown from local topsoil. Survival of planted species was high at 95%. Vegetation similarity to forest was moderate for groundcover but high for tree species. The developing vegetation structure is providing habitat for birds and other wildlife using the overpass to cross the road.
The document discusses various aspects of forests and trees including:
1) Earthworms can live up to 16 years. One ton of small animals can live in a hectare of forest.
2) Humus is made of organic materials. Forest soil has four layers - litter, humus, roots/gravel, and gravel/minerals.
3) A tree's age can be determined by counting its rings. Rainforest trees differ from temperate trees in their ring patterns.
The document discusses various forest biomes around the world. It describes the key characteristics of tropical rainforests, temperate forests, and boreal forests. Tropical rainforests are located near the equator and have high biodiversity, temperature variation of less than 5 degrees throughout the year, and annual rainfall of 200-225 cm. Temperate forests have moderate climates and broad-leaved deciduous trees, and are located in parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. Boreal forests occur in northern latitudes and have long cold winters and short warm summers, with coniferous trees as the dominant vegetation.
During the Alliance for Community Trees "ACTrees Day" Annual Meeting in Sacramento, CA, on November 13, 2012, moderator Scott Jamieson led a panel discussion on how local community tree leaders are handling disastrous threats to urban forests, including invasive species, fires, and drought. Speakers included Rob Davis of the City of Denver, Glenda Daniel of Openlands, and Barry Ward of Trees for Houston. Learn more about ACTrees Day at http://ACTrees.org/what-we-do/training-and-conferences/annual-meeting/
This document discusses a study that analyzed the diversity and distribution of fungal endophytes found in the leaves of four podocarp tree species and one myrtle species in New Zealand. The study found that host species was the main factor shaping endophyte assemblages, while spatial separation of sites and seasonal differences played lesser but still significant roles. Many of the isolated endophytes appeared to represent previously unrecognized fungal species in New Zealand. The full document provided details on the study sites, host species sampled, sampling methodology, isolation and identification of endophytes, and statistical analysis performed.
This document discusses how forest and wildlife management practices can promote healthy ecosystems. It notes that plants and animals are interdependent and that increased plant diversity leads to increased wildlife diversity. Various management techniques are described that can provide habitat for different wildlife species by ensuring access to food, cover, breeding sites, and water. These include planting native species, retaining dead trees and wetland areas, minimizing soil disturbance, and creating diverse vegetation structure through practices like thinning and harvesting. Both forest and urban lands can be managed to support wildlife through habitat enhancement.
Fire Intensity Effects on Coastal Redwood RegenerationAxël Eaton
This study examined the relationship between fire severity and basal sprouting in coastal redwood trees in Big Creek Reserve, California. The researchers measured 112 redwood trees and classified burn severity. They found coastal redwoods produced more basal sprouts with increasing burn severity, as measured by char height and the presence of goosepens. Even after accounting for tree size, higher burn severity was correlated with greater sprouting. This response may be due to increased light availability or redirection of nutrients after severe burning. The findings suggest forest management could use controlled burning to reduce fuels while stimulating redwood regeneration to conserve the species in the face of climate change.
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Similar to advanced research paper draft complete-3 (20)
1. A Comparative Analysis of Snags and Dead Woody Debris in the
Kifer Plots
By Chris Benston
Winter 2016
2. Abstract
The Evergreen Forest are temperate rainforests which have been logged in the recent past.
However, no large scale harvesting operations have occurred within these forests since 1968. This has
allowed the forest the opportunity to recover and it is now approaching old growth stage. The
Evergreen forest consists of forty-four plots known as the EEON Plots. An Additional twenty much older
plots exist on campus these are known as the Kifer Plots. These plots provide crucial habitat for
numerous species of wildlife such as woodpeckers, Pacific Wrens, Brown Creepers and various species
of raptors. The Kifer plots provide student and faculty researchers with the opportunity to study the
succession of the Evergreen Forest.
The Kifer plots are named for their former owner and tree farmer, Ben Kifer. This land would
which eventually become part of the Kifer plots is just under seventy-two acres in size. The tree stand
structure found within the Kifer plots varies significantly when compared to the other plots found within
the Evergreen Forest. Prior to the college acquiring the land which the Kifer plots now sit on, this land
was managed as a tree farm. Between the years of 1923 and 1924 this land was clear cut. From this
point on this land was managed as a tree farm until it’s purchase by the college in 1968. The
management practices utilized by this tree farm included but was not limited to selective thinning and
controlled burns. In the year 1963, the following tree species were removed Big Leaf Maple, Red Alder,
and Grand Fir. The harvested timber was cut into smaller pieces and managed to produce 250 cords of
wood. In the following year, a grand total of seventy -thousand board feet of diseased Douglas Fir was
harvested. Prior to this land being sold to the college, all marketable Grand and Douglas Fir was
harvested and sold. (Hall, Preffier-Hoyt et al. 1977).
The research plots as we know them today were established in 1971 by students interested in
ecological forestry. In order to conduct their study a total of forty-two plots were established out of
these forty-two plots only twenty of them were to be permanent. Today out of these original forty-two
plots only twenty plots remain. Since these plots were established in 1977, sampling has taken place
within these plots every ten years. (Hall, Preffier-Hoyt et al. 1977). However, prior to winter of 2015
regular maintenance of these plots was not taking place. This ill-regular maintenance resulted in poorly
placed plot centers, difficult to find tree tags, and increasing numbers of untagged dead woody debris
and trees. This made conducting any surveys a difficult if not impossible task especially considering any
data collected would be extremely flawed. In winter of 2015, a survey was conducted to re-establish the
location of the permanent plots and to determine which plots needed the largest amount of
maintenance.
Dead woody debris and snags provide crucial habitat for numerous species of animals. Over a
third of all species of animals rely on down woody debris for preservation and longevity. Snags which are
trees that have died but have yet to fall, provide nesting habitats for more than sixty mammals and bird
which are cavity nesters. Which means they create cavities in dead trees and build their nests in these
cavities. Two of the most commonly thought of cavity nesters are woodpeckers and flickers. However, it
should be noted that not all cavity nesters make their own cavities. Secondary cavity nesters rely on the
3. primary cavity nesters above to create cavities for them. The list of animals of commonly considered to
be secondary cavity nesters includes but is not limited Wood Ducks, Blue Birds and Flying Squirrels.
Occasionally these secondary cavity nesters will conduct additional excavation of these nesting cavities.
(Bottorff 2009)
In addition, several species of birds and mammals have been observed roosting or nesting
behind the loose bark found on snags. Bats and Brown Creepers are two of the most commonly
observed animals roosting or nesting behind the loose bark of these snags. Any roosting or nesting
activities occurs prior to the snag decaying to a point where the bark has completely decomposed.
Hollow logs also provide numerous mammals both large and small with roosting habitat. The list of
animals known to roost in these hollow logs includes but is not limited to the follow species: Vaux
Swifts, Flying Squirrels and Pine Martins. These large hollowed out logs serve as a crucial habitat for
Black Bears as they provide them with a place to roost, nest and den. Some species of raptors such as
Eagles, Ospreys, and certain species of Hawks have been known to utilize the upper branches and top of
the snags as nesting sites. However, this just one of the many ways raptors have been observed using
snags. Raptors additionally use snags as place to perch and launch from. (Bottorff 2009)
However, use of snags as perch and launching post is not limited to raptors, Flying Squirrels also
utilize snags in this manner. The following types of birds have been observed using snags a perch and
launch pad: Owls, Hawks, and Eagles. Finally, raptors have been known to use the top of snags as guard
post to defend their territory and as a plucking post to consume their prey on. Snags play a crucial role
for woodpecker’s snags are a key aspect of the mating ritual for woodpeckers. In addition, snags provide
woodpeckers with a means to method defend and protect their territory. Certain species of
woodpeckers have been observed drumming on snags and trees as a method of defense and as a way to
attract the attention of potential mates. These dead and dying trees serve as a host for numerous
species of insects and other types of invertebrates. Numerous species of birds utilize these insects and
other types of invertebrates as a food source. (Bottorff 2009)
The goals for this quarter were similar to those established in fall quarter. The previously
established goals for the Kifer plots were to organize and update these plots, a process which was
started by the another student researcher last fall. She was charged with re-establishing the plot centers
and with both labeling and collecting data on the structure of the tree stand. My goals varied slightly
from hers, as I was tasked with labeling and collecting data for both snags and dead woody debris
(DWD). When this data is combined with the previously collected data, it will give us a greater
understanding of how the forest stand structure is changing and it may also aide in future studies.
Like the previously conducted survey, I used a modified version of the 2015 EEON Plot Protocol.
The biggest difference being the EEON Plot Protocol is written for plots with diameter of 10 meters and
the Kifer plots have a diameter of 16 meters. As with the previously conducted survey this is considered
to be an incomplete survey as well. During the course of my eight-week survey, I only survey these plots
for snags and dead wood debris (DWD). Over the course of my eight-week survey I labeled and
collected data on every piece of dead woody debris with diameter greater than 10 cm at its largest end.
The majority of the snags were labeled prior to the start of my survey, little to no data collection for the
snags occurred during the previously conducted survey. As with the trees diameter breast height (DBH)
for the snags was collected at a height of 1.4 meters. Additional measurements to determine the height
4. of the snags were collected by using a fifty-meter tape to determine the distance and a clinometer to
determine both up and down angles of the snag. By using trigonometry, we are able to take the
distance and both of the angles to determine the height of our snags. In order to evaluate the condition
of these snags, a scale of decay was used with a range of one to nine. On this decay scale a decay of
stage one represented a live tree and a decay stage of nine represented a fallen stump.
Figure 2. Snag
and log
decomposition
stages and
classes
from Kirk and
Franklin, 2001
Figure 5. Measure directly above the root collar
on recently fallen DWD (from FIA National Core Field Guide version 3.0).
5. The protocol used to measure the dead woody debris(DWD) varies slightly from the protocol
used to measure snags and trees. As with the snags and trees data related to the species and decay
class of the dead woody debris are taken. The decay class scale dead woody debris (dwd) varies
significantly from the decay stage scale used for snags and trees. For the decay class scale there are five
categories but with the decay stage scale there are nine categories. A decay class of one represents a
recently fallen log and a decay class of five represents a fallen log which has almost completely rotted
away and has started to turn powder. However, additional measurements are collected when sampling
for dead woody debris. Only dead woody debris with a width greater than 4 inches or 10 cm at the
largest end should be tagged. The width measurements are collected at three different locations. These
locations where width measurements should be collected are both ends of and the middle of the dead
woody debris. At any point if portion of dead woody debris leaves the plot the end is considered to be
the point where the dead woody debris leaves the plot. The final measurement which is to be collected
for the down woody debris is the overall the length, as with before if a portion of dwd leaves the plot it
should be excluded from the overall length measurement. If there is a visible root collar all width and
length measurements are to be collected above the root collar. If the piece of dead woody debris, you
are measuring is broken it is important to note that the length is estimated and how many pieces the
dead wood debris is broken into on the data sheet.
6. Log
Characteristics
Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4 Class 5
Bark Intact Intact Trace Absent Absent
Twigs Present Absent Absent Absent Absent
Texture Intact Intact to soft Hard, large
pieces
Small, soft
blocky pieces
Soft and
powdery
Shape Round Round Round Round to oval Oval
Color of wood Original
Color
Original Color Original color to
faded
Light brown to
faded brown,
yellowish.
Faded to
light yellow
or gray.
Portion of log
on ground
Log
elevated on
support
points.
Log elevated on
support points, but
sagging slightly.
Log is sagging
near ground.
All of log on
ground.
All of log on
ground.
Table 1. LOG DECOMPOSITION CLASS
(from FIA National Core Field Guide version 3.0)
7. Table 2. LOG DECOMPOSITION CLASS Version 2 (FIA DWD methods)
8. Figure 3. DWD decomposition classes (from
FIA National Core Field Guide version 3.0).
9. The data for sum of estimated basal area (m2) for plots shows no significant correlation
between elevation and increased coverage by dead wood debris. However, plot 2-5 can be considered
the outlier among the data set. I will discuss the two most likely explanations for this discrepancy. The
first explanation is snags in this plot are decaying at rate much faster than those located in the other
plots. The data for the estimated basal area of snags (m2) seems to support this theory. The sum of
estimated basal area coverage(m2) within this plot for snags and dead woody debris is not proportional.
The basal coverage for snags within this plot is almost non-existent. When comparing the estimated
basal area coverage of snags for plot 2-5 to the entire data set, we can see that this plot has the second
lowest estimated basal area coverage for snags. The second theory is plot 2-5 is infected with a tree
disease similar to laminated rot root. However, less evidence is available to support this theory. If this
were the case, we should be seeing elevated levels of coverage by both snags and dead woody debris
similar to what is occurring in plot 5-1.
As one can see the plots with the greatest sum of estimated basal area for dead woody debris
tend to be those which are on flat level ground and most vulnerable to the wind. For the majority of
these plots the data does not support the laminated root rot theory. The majority of the plots with
increased levels of coverage by dead woody debris seem have to decreased coverage by snags. The
same can be said for snags coverage within the plots, the plots with smaller areas of coverage by dead
woody debris seems to have elevated levels of coverage for snags. This data trend leads to me believe
that the changes being observed in these plots are not uniform. In fact, wide variations can be observed
for plots which are part of the same transect and located only a few meters apart. This could be a result
of the timber within forest being harvested by different times meaning the regrowth located within
these plots are different ages.
If these plots were part of the initial earlier timber harvest the age and composition of tree
stands within these plots will vary from the rest. This is most plausible explanation for the very sporadic
changes in data for both snags and down woody debris currently being observed. The data shows that
the majority of snags and pieces of dead woody debris within the plot fall into two categories. The
categories are recently fallen snags and dead woody debris and the older more decayed snags and
pieces of dead woody debris. A small portion of the estimated basal area according to data is provided
by stages and classes of decay located between these two categories. Based on what the data is telling
us we can conclude that drastic changes have occurred within the forest stand structure in the past. The
data also tells us that up until recently little no to change has occurred within the forest stand structure.
However, the data shows the forest stand may be currently undergoing another drastic change.
It should be noted that several plots have larger than average coverage of snags and dead
woody debris. The most likely cause of this phenomena is the presence of laminated root rot within
these plots. Laminated root rot directly attacks the roots of trees and will cause the infected trees to
decline and die off at much faster rate. The effects of laminated root rot can be aggravated by
commercial thinning and unequal management of forest stands based on age. (Hadfield and Johnson
1977, Hadfield et al. 1986)
10.
11.
12.
13. It should be noted that the decay stage for snags with the largest estimated basal area coverage
is decay stage eight. This decay stage represents fallen stumps which is mostly likely tied to the site’s
past as a tree farm. The largest decay class according to basal area coverage across all plots is decay
class five. Which represents the severally decayed pieces of down woody debris. The most likely
explanation for this phenomena is the presence of laminated root rot in several of the plots. However, in
order to reach any solid conclusions more long term research and studies should occur.
This survey worked to build on data previously collected from the Kifer plots and should work to
any enhance any future surveys. While the data collected on the snags and dead woody debris works to
enhance our preexisting knowledge of the Kifer plots, by no means is this a comprehensive survey. As of
this paper being written a complete of survey of the Kifer plots has not been conducted for ground and
canopy cover. Upon conclusion of this survey, I removed any flagging which I had placed and as well
removing any additional flagging left over from prior surveys.
14. Citations
Hall, D.J., Hoyt, R.P., Rolnick, K., Rumberg, H.D., Western, S. 1977. A proposal for Ecological Forestry on
a portion of The Evergreen State College Campus. Pages: 9-14.
Bottorff, J. 2009. Snags, Coarse Woody Debris, and Wildlife. Pages: 1-2. Washington State Department of
Natural Resources.
Hadfield, J.S., Johnson, D.W.1977. Laminated Root Rot. USDA Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region.
Hadfield, J.S., Goheen, J. Donald., Filip, M. G., Schmitt, L.C., Harvey, D.R. 1986. Root Diseases in Oregon
and Washington Conifers. USDA Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region.
2005. Forest Inventory and Analysis National Core Field Guide Volume 1: Field Data Collection
Procedures for Phase 2 Plots Version 3.0. USDA Forest Service.
2005. Down Woody Materials 3 Field Guide Phase 3.0. USDA Forest Service.
Kirk and Franklin.2001. (unable to locate original source at this time).