ENVR 160 Surveying & Field Measurements

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

1. demonstrate use and care of hand compass, clinometer, distance measuring tools and spatial location tools used in environmental field work;
2. define a baseline study, the role of repeated measurement to demonstrate a pattern of measurement variability, the role of bioindicators, the use of quick tests to measure environmental parameters, and
3. demonstrate professionalism by active participation during learning activities, and performing crew work that is organized, collaborative, efficient and accurate. This will be evidenced by, punctuality, preparedness, pre-work organization, consideration of safety, field and office documentation and acknowledgement of scope of practice limitations.
4. accurately measure and record horizontal and vertical angles as well as slope distance and be able to derive horizontal and vertical distances in a field setting;
5. determine an area based on field traverse measurements as well as the traverse closure error for the purpose of per hectare vegetation metrics;
6. collect accurate field measurements of horizontal and vertical angles and slope distance while mapping geographical and vegetation features such that an accurate scaled strip map is produced;
7. develop and implement a basic vegetation sample design based on mapped information and field measurements which can be used to obtain bias free vegetation sample metrics;
8. quantify condition and suitability of grass vegetation for forage to support domestic range and wildlife range usage;
9. termine tree heights. diameters, species, age, vigor and condition, and note these attributes on data collection forms as per BC Land Management Guidebook #25;
10. describe timber stand attributes such as basal area and volume based on variable radius plot sample methods and associated field equipment, as needed for timber and vegetation inventories;
11. quantify vegetation communities using point and belt sampling methods and equipment in the context of fuel and ecological management prescription development;