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Rangeland Database and Field Data Entry System

Features
  • Simple interface (an Access database that doesn’t require knowledge of Access to use)
  • Tablet PC (touchscreen) and keyboard modes
  • Flexible – adapts to most monitoring applications
  • Drop-down choice lists increase data entry speed and precision
  • Automated indicator calculations and reports, and ability to create user-defined queries
  • Import/export to Excel
  • Automated species list downloads from USDA-NRCS PLANTS database
  • Three levels of user-defined security to increase data entry consistency



  • Rangeland Database and Field Data Entry System Poster


    Download Instructions (Please read even if it appears intuitive)
    1. Print these directions for easy reference.
    2. Double-click the link, “Download Rangeland Database”, and click “Save”. Choose a location to save the file. Save the file to a known location on your computer, for example, the desktop or a new folder.
    3. The saved file needs to be unzipped (some users may see the individual files even though it hasn't been unzipped). If you do not have software to unzip the file, download an evaluation version from the web such as WinZip. When you double-click the saved file, the unzip software will open. Extract all the files.
    4. Double-click “RangeDB”. Click “Open” in the Security Window. The program will open in Microsoft Access (requires Access 2000 or later).
    5. A set of instructions is included in the download. Open and print the Microsoft Word file “Instructions”. These directions will help you set up the database.
    6. Additional instructions can be accessed in the database itself by clicking “Help” on the Main Menu.
    7. If you have any problems, please contact Ericha Courtright at ericha@nmsu.edu or 575-646-4147.


    NUMEROUS ISSUES HAVE ARISEN WITH MICROSOFT OFFICE 2007. CURRENTLY, THE RANGE DATABASE IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH MICROSOFT OFFCIE 2007 DUE TO CHANGES MADE BY MICROSOFT. WE ARE WORKING ON THIS AND WILL POST AN UPDATE WHEN THE RANGE DATABASE CAN BE SAFELY USED WITH MICROSOFT OFFICE 2007.


    DOWNLOAD RANGELAND DATABASE   NEW VERSION 1.4 released February 14, 2008. This version incorporates the ESD (Ecological Site Description) database into the Rangeland database. There have been numerous modifications and additions so poke around and see what's new.


    Please Note: additional calculations, methods, and report options are still being added to the database.


    Suggestions for future enhancements should be directed to Ericha Courtright. If you make any structural changes, you will not be able to import your database into the next version.


    Please register so we can notify you about new versions.
    You only need to do this once to be put on the mailing list.
    Email:

    Current computers in use:
    The ideal tablet is lightweight with a bright, outdoor-readable screen. We currently use the Fujitsu Stylistic ST5112 We also purchase a high-capacity lithium ion battery for each of our tablets. Between this battery and the standard battery, you can run the tablet all day without any problems. Otterbox We have one of these but it is rarely used since it is heavy and bulky. Fujitsu Case We like this lightweight case for the tablet. Pelican Case We also like the pelican cases for travel and storage. These pelican cases provide a specialized interior for the case that allows us to store the charger, extra batteries, etc directly in the case. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this webpage is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.


    Acknowledgements
    Development of this application began in October 2003. The following individuals have contributed to the project: Jeff Herrick, Laura Burkett, Ericha Courtright, Dave Pyke, Mike Pellant, Pat Shaver, Jeff Repp and Kara Hempy Mayer. Special kudos go to the principal developer Barry Lavine (blavine@usa.net) for his programming genius, infinite patience, and creativity.


    USDA, ARS, Jornada Experimental Range
    P.O. Box 30003, MSC 3JER, NMSU
    Las Cruces, NM 88003-8003
    Tel: 575-646-4147
    Email: ericha@nmsu.edu