Our Work
Methods
The following methods were used to collect data on multiple different Ash forests throughout the Eugene area. The purpose was to evaluate the Ash trees for the presence of EAB (Emerald Ash Borer), along with what vegetation may replace the trees if the EAB is found.
Equipment
We split into small groups to share equipment and tools to collect data. This included aerial maps with GIS mapped plot locations, clipboards, data sheets on write-in-the-rain paper, diameter tape to measure DBH (diameter at breast height), measuring tapes to establish plot boundaries, iPad with GIS and EAB survey tool along with batteries, compass (to identify north and first tree), phone camera, pin flags, sledge or hammer for center stake, clippers (for trimming blackberry), plant identification aids, first aid kit, and rubber boots
Stand Walk Through
Before establishing plots, we started by walking through each plot to familiarize ourselves with the types of vegetation, density of ash trees, understory composition, and potential hazards in the area. We noted any EAB presence, the health of the canopy, and any human impact.
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Establishing Ash Plots
To establish plots, we were given locations by the City of Eugene. We began by placing a flag and rebar into the center of the plot. From the center of the plot, we began to establish the plot boundaries by placing flags in each direction, North, East, South, and West. The plots are 11.28m radius to create a 400 m2 circular plot along with a smaller subplot within the main plot with a radius of 8m. Both boundaries are marked using flags. Once the plots were established, we would use a compass to find the Northernmost ash in the plot tree to begin collecting data on.
Data Collection & Forms
After establishing the northernmost tree, we start by making sure that it is above 4 inches in DBH. DBH refers to “diameter at breast height,” which is 1.37 meters or 4.5 feet tall. Then, we marked the tree with a metal tag at breast height and base and labeled it “EAB start tree.” Next, we used Field Maps on the iPad to record the DBH, canopy health, and any signs of the emerald ash borer, which include dead branches, D-shaped exit holes, woodpecker activity, and epicormic shoots. If any of these signs are found, we would take pictures, flag, and note that the tree is showing EAB symptoms. After recording the first tree, we continued to the next tree by moving in a clockwise direction, marking the previous trees we recorded with a flag.
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In the 8m radius subplots we recorded on paper forms any non-ash trees that are above 4 inches DBH, saplings of all trees greater than 4 inches DBH and greater than 1.37m tall, all shrubs less than 1.37m tall and all herbaceous species and vines within the plot. On the herbaceous data form, we would rank the species by cover class ranging from 1-5. ​
Data Entry
To document the site, we took pictures from the center stake facing north and east. Each photo included a person standing in the plot for scale (example photos shown below). Next, we took all paper forms and transferred the data to an Excel file 48 hours after data collection occurred. A second person looked over the data for quality assurance purposes.
Study Sites
Below is a satellite map from Google Earth marking all of the sites in which we worked in to collect data for this project.
