Course Overview
This course introduces the fundamentals of field sampling procedures commonly used in natural resource management. Students practice sampling techniques for vegetation inventories with commonly used field equipment. Accurate measurement, field data recording and data interpretation are fundamental. Students compile field data and analyze results using standard statistical methods. The British Columbia Provincial Resource Information Standards Committee (RISC) ground sampling procedures form the basis of the applications practiced in this course.
- Retired
- This course has been retired and is no longer offered. Find other Flexible Learning courses that may interest you.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:
- Describe the reasons for sampling
- Differentiate between a sample and a census
- Describe sampling error, non-sampling error, accuracy, precision and bias as they relates to sampling
- Differentiate between: simple random sampling, systematic sampling and stratified sampling
- Describe the common sampling methods used in natural resource sampling (i.e.: fixed area, variable plot, line transect and line intercept)
- Follow a sampling plan to establish strip lines and sample points in the field
- Establish sample points and record field data using various sampling techniques (fixed area, variable plot, line transect and line intercept)
- Measure biomass and fine fuels using standard sampling procedures
- Compile field sampling data and interpret results using standard statistical methods
- Assess wildlife and danger trees using standard assessment methods
- Use appropriate equipment (i.e.: prisms, lasers, Tablets, CapturX) to efficiently perform sampling objectives
Effective as of Winter 2016
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.