Field Plots FAQ Metadata

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Frequently-anticipated questions:

• What does this data set describe?
  1. How should this data set be cited?
  2. What geographic area does the data set cover?
  3. What does it look like?
  4. Does the data set describe conditions during a particular time period?
  5. What is the general form of this data set?
  6. How does the data set represent geographic features?
  7. How does the data set describe geographic features?
  8. What biological taxa does this data set concern?
• Who produced the data set?
  1. Who are the originators of the data set?
  2. Who also contributed to the data set?
  3. To whom should users address questions about the data?
• Why was the data set created?
• How was the data set created?
  1. What methods were used to collect the data?
  2. From what previous works were the data drawn?
  3. How were the data generated, processed, and modified?
  4. What similar or related data should the user be aware of?
• How reliable are the data; what problems remain in the data set?
  1. How well have the observations been checked?
  2. How accurate are the geographic locations?
  3. How accurate are the heights or depths?
  4. Where are the gaps in the data? What is missing?
  5. How consistent are the relationships among the data, including topology?
• How can someone get a copy of the data set?
  1. Are there legal restrictions on access or use of the data?
  2. Who distributes the data?
  3. What's the catalog number I need to order this data set?
  4. What legal disclaimers am I supposed to read?
  5. How can I download or order the data?
• Who wrote the metadata?

What does this data set describe?

1. How should this data set be cited?

   U.S. Geological Survey Department of the Interior, 200212, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Field Plots Data Base for Vegetation Mapping: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, USGS, Core Science Systems, Core Science Analytics and Synthesis, Denver, CO.

   Online Links:

   • <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/ftp/vegmapping/flfo/flfoplot.zip>

   Other_Citation_Details: Created in part by e2m under contract from NPS.

2. What geographic area does the data set cover?

   West_Bounding_Coordinate: -105.311935

   East_Bounding_Coordinate: -105.245676

   North_Bounding_Coordinate: 38.941112

   South_Bounding_Coordinate: 38.884081

   Description_of_Geographic_Extent: Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

3. What does it look like?

   <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/flfo/images/flfoplots.pdf> (PDF)

   Locations of vegetation plot samples; low resolution for web browsing.

4. Does the data set describe conditions during a particular time period?

   Beginning_Date: Jul-2001

   Ending_Date: Aug-2001

   Currentness_Reference: Ground Condition

5. What is the general form of this data set?

   Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: Database

6. How does the data set represent geographic features?
   1. How are geographic features stored in the data set?

      This is a vector data set.

   2. What coordinate system is used to represent geographic features?

      Grid_Coordinate_System_Name: Universal Transverse Mercator

      Universal_Transverse_Mercator:

      UTM_Zone_Number: 13

      Transverse_Mercator:

      Longitude_of_Central_Meridian: -105

      Latitude_of_Projection_Origin: 0

      False_Easting: 500000

      False_Northing: 0

      Scale_Factor_at_Central_Meridian: .9996

      Planar coordinates are encoded using Coordinate pair
      Abscissae (x-coordinates) are specified to the nearest 100
      Ordinates (y-coordinates) are specified to the nearest 100
      Planar coordinates are specified in Meters

      The horizontal datum used is North American Datum of 1983.
      The ellipsoid used is Geodedic Reference System 80.
      The semi-major axis of the ellipsoid used is 6378137.
      The flattening of the ellipsoid used is 1/298.257.
      

7. How does the data set describe geographic features?

   Entity_and_Attribute_Overview:

   Each of 99 vegetation plots has attributes for physical description, species and strata. Physical description - (Plot number, plot code, common name, scientific name, state, park name, quad name, utm zone, map project, gps file, raw utm x, raw utm y, corrected utm x, corrected utm y, surveyors date, surveyors, length, width, photos, permenant, elevation, slope, aspect, topographical position, landform, surficial geology, cowardin system type, hydrography, bedrock, large rock, small rock, sand, litter duff, wood, bare soil, other soil, soil texture, soil drainage, leaf phenology, leaf type, and physiololgy). Species - (sp_code is a project specific code for each species found, species is the scientific name for that species, spcover is the species present and the percent cover for each species, plant code is the first two letters of the genus and first two letters of the species. If the code are not unique a number is added to make the code unique). Strata - (height and cover are average percent cover of that particular species, 1 = 0-10%, 2 = 10-25%, 3 = 25-60% and 4 = 60-100%, pstrata is the type of vegetation, T1 = emergent, T2 = canopy, T3 = sub-canopy, S1 = tall shrub, S2 = short shrub, H = herbaceous, N = non-vascular, V = vine/liana, and E = epiphyte).

   Entity_and_Attribute_Detail_Citation:

   Field Methods for Vegetation mapping, December 1994. Prepared for: the United States Department of the Interior, National Biological Survey (now the USGS Core Science Systems) and the National Park Service. Prepared by: The Nature Conservancy, and Environmental Systems Research Institute. <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/standards/fieldmethodsrpt.pdf>

8. What biological taxa does this data set concern?

   Taxonomy:

   Keywords/Taxon:

   Taxonomic_Keyword_Thesaurus: None

   Taxonomic_Keywords: vegetation classification

   Taxonomic_Keywords: Standardized National Vegetation Classification System

   Taxonomic_Keywords: alliance

   Taxonomic_Keywords: community association

   Taxonomic_System:

   Classification_System/Authority:

   Classification_System_Citation:

   Citation_Information:

   Originator: U.S. Government; Federal Geographic Data Committee

   Publication_Date: 19971022

   Title: National Vegetation Classification Standard (NVCS)

   Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: document

   Publication_Information:

   Publication_Place: Washington D.C.

   Publisher: Federal Geographic Data Committee

   Online_Linkage:

   <http://www.fgdc.gov/standards/projects/FGDC-standards-projects/vegetation/index_html>

   Taxonomic_Procedures:

   Vegetation associations were identified; no specimens nor vouchers were collected as a part of this process.

   Taxonomic_Completeness:

   Conforms with FGDC standardized vegetation classification system.

   Taxonomic_Classification:

   Taxon_Rank_Name: Kingdom

   Taxon_Rank_Value: Plantae

   Applicable_Common_Name: plants

Who produced the data set?

1. Who are the originators of the data set? (may include formal authors, digital compilers, and editors)
   • U.S. Geological Survey Department of the Interior

2. Who also contributed to the data set?

   Jim von Loh, in cooperation with NatureServe, collected field data.

3. To whom should users address questions about the data?
   USGS/CSS/Core Science Analytics and Synthesis
   c/o USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator
   Denver Federal Center, Building 810, Room 8000, MS 302
   Denver, Colorado 80225
   

   (303) 202-4220 (voice)
   303-202-4219 (FAX)
   gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov
   

Why was the data set created?

Provide National Parks with the necessary tools to effectively manage their natural resources. Plot data are collected and analyzed to develop a classification (using the Standardized National Vegetation Classification System) and description of vegetation types in preparation for photointerpretation and mapping of the monument's vegetation types.

How was the data set created?

1. What methods were used to collect the data?

   Method 0 of 2

   Type: Field

   Field sampling using releve plots

   Method 0 of 2

   Type: Field

   Field Methods for Vegetation Mapping

   From what previous works were the data drawn?

   SNVCS protocol document (source 1 of 3)

   National Biological Survey (Now USGS/Core Science Systems), and and National Park Service, 199411, Standardized National Vegetation Classification System; protocol document for the USGS-NPS Vegetation mapping Program: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Protocol documents, USGS/CSS, Core Science Analytics and Synthesis, Denver, CO.

   Online Links:

   • <http://www.fgdc.gov/standards/projects/FGDC-standards-projects/vegetation/NVCS_V2_FINAL_2008-02.pdf/>

   Other_Citation_Details:

   Report prepared under contract by The Nature Conservancy, 1815 N. Lynn Street, Arlington, Virginia 22209 and Environmental Systems Research Institute, 380 New York Street, Redlands, California 92373

   Type_of_Source_Media: Online

   Source_Contribution:

   This document describes and defines the vegetation classification system which is to be used for describing and mapping the vegetation at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

   FLFO sample and classification (source 2 of 3)

   USGS/CSS, Core Science Analytics and Synthesis, 19980223, Vegetation Mapping Project Report at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, USGS/CSS, Core Science Analytics and Synthesis, Denver, CO.

   Online Links:

   • <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/flfo/index.html>

   Other_Citation_Details:

   This report was generated by e2m, NatureServe and the USGS Rocky Mountain Mapping Center under contract with the National Park Service

   Type_of_Source_Media: Online

   Source_Contribution: Report summarizing plot data collection effort

   field methods protocol document (source 3 of 3)

   United States Dept. of the Interior, National Biological Survey (now USGS Core Science Systems) and the National Park Service, 199412, Field Methods for Vegetation Mapping: USGS/Core Science Systems, Core Science Analytics and Synthesis, Denver, CO.

   Online Links:

   • <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/standards/fieldmethodsrpt.pdf>

   Other_Citation_Details:

   This report was generated by The Nature Conservancy under contract to the USGS/BRD, CBI

   Type_of_Source_Media: Online

   Source_Contribution:

   This document defines the methods and protocols for field data collection to be used as part of the USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program

   How were the data generated, processed, and modified?

   Date: Jul-2001 (process 1 of 2)

   The following describes the tasks performed by The Nature Conservancy to produce descriptive data for 99 vegetation sampling plots in two separate database files and 60 observation points. The first contains general descriptive information at each of the plots. Plot sites were selected by information obtained during a reconnaissance visit to the park in June of 2001, and by examining tone and textural patterns on the FLFO AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS. Site physical parameters, species types, and vegetation strata were described at each site. The PLOTS database contains tabulations of site physical factors, listed under the ATTRIBUTE ACCURACY REPORT for each of the 99 plots. Plot data were manually recorded on field forms on-site, and subsequently keyed into the database files described herein. Information in the plot database was then used to develop the classification system and plant identification keys contained in the Project Report.

   Date: Jul-2001 (process 2 of 2)

   The following describes the tasks performed by The Nature Conservancy to produce descriptive data for 99 vegetation sampling plots in three separate database files. The second table contains listings of individual species found in each plot, along with height and cover estimates, and strata delineations. The SPECIES LISTING database contains line entries for each species including the Plot Code, Numeric species code, full scientific species name, cover estimate, a unique alphnumeric species identifier (plant code), and Plant Strata delineation. Plot sites were selected subjectively because of the heterogeneity of the vegetation and the small number of samples per type. Since aerial photos were not available at the time of plot selection, visual reconnaissance was conducted at the summit of the bluff to examine vegetation patterns for the purpose of plot placement. . Plot data were manually recorded on field forms on-site, and subsequently keyed into the database files described herein. Information in the plot database was then used to develop the classification system and plant identification keys contained in the Project Report.

   Person who carried out this activity:
   

   Jim Von Loh
   e2m
   Senior Biologist
   7000 South Yosemite Street
   Engelwood, CO 80112
   USA
   

   (303-721-9219 (voice)
   jvonloh@e2m.net
   

   Data sources used in this process:

   • SNVCS protocol document
   • Field Methods for Vegetation Mapping

   Data sources produced in this process:

   • flfo sample and classification
   • flfo Vegetation Descriptions

   What similar or related data should the user be aware of?

   U.S. Geological Survey, Department of the Interior, 200212, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Spatial Vegetation Data: Cover type / Asociation Level of the National Vegetation Classification System Base for Vegetation Mapping: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Florissant Fossil Bed National Monument, USGS, Core Science Systems, Core Science Analytics and Synthesis, Denver, CO.

   Online Links:

   • <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/flfo/index.html>

   Other_Citation_Details:

   Created in large part by USGS Rocky Mountain Mapping Center under agreement from the National Park Service

   U.S. Geological Survey, Department of the Interior, 200212, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Accuracy Assessment: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, USGS, Core Science Systems, Core Science Analytics and Synthesis, Denver, CO.

   Online Links:

   • <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/flfo/index.html>

   Other_Citation_Details:

   Created in large part by e2m and USGS RMMC under contract with the National Park Service

How reliable are the data; what problems remain in the data set?

1. How well have the observations been checked?

   Physical description - Descriptive plot data were collected for 99 sites and 60 observation points whose vegetation represents a full spectrum of alliance types present within Florissant Fossil BEds National Monument. Attributes collected for each site include: a unique plot identification code, park name, quad name, UTM coordinates, UTM projection, plot survey date, surveyor's name, length, width, photo type, elevation, slope aspect, topographic position, landform, surface geology, Cowardin System category, hydrology, surface material description, soil texture, soil drainage, leaf phenology, leaf type, and physiognomy. Species - Descriptive plot data were collected for 99 sites whose vegetation represents a full spectrum of alliance types present within Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. This database, which is the second of two databases containing plot field data, delineates species. Individual species described at each of 99 plots is listed, one line per species, with the following information: Plot Identification Code, Numeric Species Code, Species Name, Species Cover ( 0=trace, 1=< 1%, 2=1-5%, 3=5-25%, 4=25-50%, 5=50-75%, 6=75-100%), Plantcode, and Strata Code (T1=emergent, T2=canopy, T3=sub-canopy, S1=tall shrub, S2=short shrub, H=herbaceous, N=non-vascular, V=vinae/liana, E=epiphyte). Most of the 99 plots have multiple strata, with each listed as a separate line entry in the species database. Strata are described by plot code, descriptive name, height, cover, and an alpha-numeric strata code. Descriptive names include canopy, sub-canopy, tall shrub, short shrub, herbaceous, and emergent. Height classes, in meters, range from 1 to 7: 1=<0.5 m, 2=0.5-1m, 3=1-2m, 4=2-5m, 5=5-10m, 6=10-15m and 7=15-20m. Cover groupings, in percent, range from 1 to 4: 1=0-10%, 2=10-25%, 3=25-60%, and 4=60-100%. The diagnostic species for each stratum is listed by latin name. Stratum codes are defined in the following manner: T1=emergent, T2=canopy, T3=sub-canopy, S1=tall shrub, S2=short shrub, and H=herbaceous. Less extensive data were collected at the 60 observation points in two tables.

2. How accurate are the geographic locations?

   X,Y UTM coordinates representing each of the 99 plots were collected via GPS under selective availability with post processing for differential correction. The differentially correted GPS coordinates have accuracies in the X and Y direction of +/- 2 to 5 meters.

3. How accurate are the heights or depths?

   Elevations for plots were obtained from the USGS 24,000 quad map for Lake George, and are estimated to be +/- 15 m.

4. Where are the gaps in the data? What is missing?

   Physical description - Descriptive entries for each of the 99 plots and 60 observation points are complete for each of the applicable attributes listed in the database. Species - One species is entered per line, by plot code, with multiple species listed for each plot, one per row. Plot codes and species names are complete for each row, but some species codes, cover and strata information is missing (because it was not present on the original field forms).

5. How consistent are the relationships among the observations, including topology?

   Physical description - Entries for each of the listed attributes are in the form of consistent groupings of either textual or numerical descriptors. Species & Strata - Entries for each of the listed attributes are in the form of consistent groupings of either textual or numerical descriptors, as defined above under "Attribute Accuracy Report".

How can someone get a copy of the data set?

Are there legal restrictions on access or use of the data?

Access_Constraints: None

Use_Constraints:

Any person using the information presented here should fully understand the data collection and compilation procedures, as described in these metadata, before beginning analyses. The burden for determining fitness for use lies entirely with the user. For purposes of publication or dissemination, citations or credit should be given to the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service.

1. Who distributes the data set? (Distributor 1 of 1)
   USGS/CSS/Core Science Analytics and Synthesis
   c/o USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator
   Denver Federal Center, Building 810, Room 8000, MS 302
   Denver, Colorado 80225
   

   (303) 202-4220 (voice)
   303-202-4219 (FAX)
   gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov
   

2. What's the catalog number I need to order this data set?

   FLFO Plots Data; Physical Descriptive Data and Species Listing Data

3. What legal disclaimers am I supposed to read?

   The U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service shall not be held liable for improper or incorrect use of the data described and/or contained herein. These data and related graphics (if available) are not legal documents and are not intended to be used as such.

   The information contained in these data is dynamic and may change over time. The data are not better than the original sources from which they were derived. It is the responsibility of the data user to use the data appropriately and consistent within the limitations of geospatial data in general and these data in particular. Any related graphics (if available) are intended to aid the data user in acquiring relevant data; it is not approriate to use the related graphics as data.

   The U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service gives no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data. It is strongly recommended that these data are directly acquired from an U.S. Geological Survey and National Park Service servers and not indirectly through other sources which may have changed the data in some way. Although these data have been processed successfully on a computer system at the U.S. Geological Survey, no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the utility of the data on another system or for general or scientific purposes, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty. This disclaimer applies both to individual use of the data and aggregate use with other data. It is also strongly recommended that careful attention be paid to the contents of the metadata file associated with these data. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this metadata report does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use by the U. S. Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey and National Park Service.

4. How can I download or order the data?
   • Availability in digital form:

     Data format:	HTML
     Network links:	<http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/flfo/index.html>

   • Cost to order the data: None

Who wrote the metadata?

Dates:

Last modified: 17-Dec-2002
Last Reviewed: 21-May-2010

Metadata author:

USGS/CSS/Core Science Analytics and Synthesis
c/o USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator
Denver Federal Center, Building 810, Room 8000, MS 302
Denver, Colorado 80225

(303) 202-4220 (voice)
303-202-4219 (FAX)
gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov

Metadata standard:

FGDC Biological Data Profile of the Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata (FGDC-STD-001.1-1999)

Metadata extensions used:

• <http://www.nbii.gov/portal/server.pt/community/fgdc_metadata/255>