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FAQs
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Program Development
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Q:
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How do I decide how many measurements to complete if the plant community I am working in is different from those described in Volume II, Appendix C?
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A:
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There are two options. The first is to do some preliminary sampling and
generate your own requirements (Volume II, Appendix C, Option 3, page 164). The second is to use the plant communities with the most similar
spatial structure to yours (Volume II, Appendix C, Option 2, page 149).
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Q:
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Have you developed editable forms for Palm or Windows handheld computers?
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A:
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No, we have not. However, we will soon have unprotected automated indicator calculation excel files available for download that you can import into Palm environments.
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Supplementary Methods
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Q:
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At what depths should compaction be measured in upland and riparian systems?
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A:
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Penetrometer resistance should be recorded to a depth of at least 10 cm
(4"), or the depth of the qualitatively defined compaction zone, whichever
is greater (Volume II, Sec. II, page 38); for information on how to
identify a compaction zone, see Rangeland Compaction (RngSheet_4.pdf) or
Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health (http://www.blm.gov/nstc/library/pdf/1734-6.pdf). Compaction layer depth
rarely exceeds 20 cm in rangeland ecosystems, except on abandoned
agricultural land where a plow pan may exist at 20 cm (8").
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Indicator Interpretation
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Q:
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Is it okay to compare areas with different soil texture if they have the same plant community (e.g. 15 vs. 25% clay)?
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A:
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For most assessment and monitoring objectives, this would not be
appropriate. Soil texture should be similar if the objective is to compare
the effects of different management (or plant communities) on penetrometer
resistance. Soils with more clay will generally have higher resistance than
soils with less clay (Volume II, Sec. III, page 100).
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Tools
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Q:
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Do you have a database application available for data entry and indicator calculations?
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A:
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We are in the process of developing a Microsoft Access Database. The first release will contain data input forms for all of the Quick Start methods, as well as Plant Production. We hope to have this database available for free download within the year.
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Q:
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Where can I purchase soil stability kits and impact penetrometers?
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A:
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Tools can be purchased from the following vendors: (1) Synergy Resource Solutions
Jack Alexander
jack@countgrass.com
www.countgrass.com
Synergy Resource Solutions, Inc.
1755 Hymer Ave.
Sparks NV 89431
775 331 5577 Office
775 331 5579 Fax
775 772 5123 Cell
(2) Darbyshire Machine*
Jack Darbyshire
Darbyshire Machine
501 W. O'Hara Road
Anthony, NM 88021
dan@darbyshire.com
505-882-2797
Reference to a particular product or manufacturer does not imply
endorsement by the USDA or any its scientists. Neither the USDA nor the
developers receive any compensation from the impact penetrometer manufacturers.
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