Applications

Line-intercept sampling is one way we can gather detailed information on plant communities. We may use capped rebar to mark the end of survey transects, but if we plan to repeat a survey, we’ll need to know the direction and length of each transect. A sketch map in our field notes can help! How are we going to take the measurements in the field and shrink them to make an accurate sketch on paper?

We’ll convert from distances on the ground to measurements on a map when we are plotting locations on a map or creating a map in the field. To do this, measure your distance in the field (using a tape or odometer). This will be the factor that starts your dimensional analysis. The next factor will be the scale with the ground distance in the denominator. Dividing by the ground distance makes sense because we are going from large distances on the ground to small measurements on the map. Now, set up conversion factors to take you from the measurement unit you used on the ground (usually feet, meters, miles or kilometers) to units you’ll measure on the map (usually inches or centimeters).