MONITORING TOOL
Included are the datasheets corresponding to the Monitoring Grazing Lands Technical Note. The
following datasheets are designed for electronic data entry or printed manual entry. Each monitoring
method heading includes both time required and monitoring length indicators (short-term, long-term).
Instructions for data entry are provided for each method on preceeding tab. The summary worksheet
provides manual record keeping for subsequent comparisons. All methods are printer friendly.
Table of Contents
I. Monitoring Method Documentation IX. Line Point Intercept Method
Datasheet and Examplesheet Datasheet and Examplesheet
Instructions Instructions
II. Photopoint Method X. Modified Frequency Method
Datasheet and Examplesheet Datasheet and Examplesheet
Instructions Instructions
III. Step & Measure Method XI Dry Weight Rank Method
Datasheet and Examplesheet Datasheet and Examplesheet
Instructions Instructions
IV. Landscape Appearance Method XII. Mod. Dry Wt. Rank 3 Plot Method
Datasheet and Examplesheet Datasheet and Examplesheet
Instructions Instructions
V. Key Species Method XIII. Mod. Dry Wt. Rank 5 Plot Method
Datasheet and Examplesheet Datasheet and Examplesheet
Instructions Instructions
VI. Paired Plot Method XIV. Precipitation Records
Datasheet and Examplesheet Datasheet and Examplesheet
Instructions Instructions
VII. Cover Pole Method XV. Climate (% Normal Precipitation)
Datasheet and Examplesheet Datasheet and Examplesheet
Instructions Instructions
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Monitoring DataSheet Intructions
Introduction: Filling out the Monitoring Datasheet is the first step in the monitoring process.
This data sheet contains fillable boxes with information most relevant to the monitoring methods
described. Each monitoring method selected should be documented on this sheet.
1. Choose monitoring method(s) and fill in appropriate information.
Monitoring method one box: Enter (or choose from drop down box) the monitoring method
determined.
Monitoring Schedule Box: Enter the monitoring schedule you will use with this method. (e.g.,
every year, end of July, etc.).
Location Box: Enter the Township (T), Range (R), Section (S), and quarter, half quarter, etc.
(1/4). Legal description is important since field numbers may change but legal descriptions do
not.
Key Area ID Box: Enter the number or name of the key area that will individually identify it (e.g.,
photo point north pasture, grazing cage #2, etc.). Note: If two methods are used on the same
sites, then the information for identifying locations, methods, etc., can be combined.
Date Established Box: Enter the date that the chosen monitoring method(s) began.
Transect Type/Layout Box: Enter the transect type: (e.g., 100-foot tape, 150-foot tape, etc.,)
and transect layout (e.g., South, 180 Degrees).
Ecological Site/Soils Box: Enter the ecological site and the soil map unit or soil series the
monitoring site falls on. At a minimum, the ecological site should be determined.
Plant Community: Determine the plant community that exists on the site. This may be
determined by referring to Ecological Site Descriptions plant community tables, state and
transition models or by simply stating the dominant species observed on the site.
Plot Frame Size: Enter the size of the plot frame if used (1.92 ft.2, 2' X 2', etc.). This plot frame
size should be used each time sampling is conducted. If the method does not use a plot frame
enter "NA."
Sample Interval: Enter the distance between sampling points (if used). This distance should
be the same each time monitoring is accomplished. Sample interval documentation is most
important for transect or step point methods.
Instructions
Table of Contents
Monitoring Method Datasheet
Client Name Conservationist Date
Long-Term Short-Term Resource
Resource Objective Objective
Plot frame
Date size
Monitoring Method 1 Location Key Area ID Transect Type/Layout Ecological Site/Soils Plant Community
Established
T
Sample
interval
Monitoring Schedule R
S
1/4
Plot frame
Date size
Monitoring Method 2 Location Key Area ID Transect Type/Layout Ecological Site/Soils Plant Community
Established
T
Sample
interval
Monitoring Schedule R
S
1/4
Instructions
Table of Contents Monitoring Method Example Sheet
Client Name Aggie J. Producer Conservationist Shirley I. Rong Date 7/20/2009
Long-Term Short Term Resource
Increase ground cover and plant density Improve livestock distribution
Resource Objective Objective
Plot Frame
Date Size
Monitoring Method 1 Location Key Area ID Transect Type/Layout Ecological Site/Soils Plant Community
Established
2 ft.2
Photo Point T 109
Sample
Interval
Monitoring Schedule R 65 Linear 100' 18° NE
Western Wheatgrass/
HooDoo Creek (F5) 07/20/09 (Permanently marked Shallow Clay/SaE 20 ft.
Green Needlegrass
S 14 transect ends)
Every Year
1/4 NW
Plot frame
Date size
Monitoring Method 2 Location Key Area ID Transect Type/Layout Ecological Site/Soils Plant Community
Established
NA
Point Intercept T 109
Sample
Interval
Monitoring Schedule R 66 Linear 100' 90° South
Smooth Brome / Prairie
Dishpan Butte (F1) 07/20/09 (Permanently marked Loamy /PrB 1 ft.
Sandreed
S 2 ends)
Every two years
1/4 SE
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Photo Point DataSheet Intructions
Introduction:
The photopoint datasheet documents the details of how, where, when, and by whom photo
monitoring was conducted. This data sheet must be completed for each area photo point
monitoring is accomplished.
1. Client Name and Conservationist: Provide the names of the client and assisting
conservationist when the photo monitoring was completed.
2. For each photo point complete the following section.
Date of Photo: This is the month, day, and year the photo was taken.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or by a descriptive name. This
description should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Photographer: Identify who took the photos.
Grazing Unit or Legal Description: Enter legal description or at least identify the grazing
field number where the photo monitoring was accomplished.
Transect Photo Bearing or Direction: Describe the transect layout. Using a compass to
orient the layout works well. This should be recorded in degrees. Measuring transect
layout is usually done after the transect is constructed.
Reference Frame Size (if used): If a reference frame is used with close-up photos, enter
the size of the frame (e.g. 1.92 ft.2, 2X2, etc.).
Number of Photos Taken: Record the number of monitoring photos taken at the site.
General Descriptions and Comments: Record the general appearance of the
photographed area. Include notes such as: Grazing use levels that year, dominant
vegetation in the photos, remarkable growing conditions, and any identifying elements
such as background (for landscape photos). Also include any specific information about
how the photos were taken if not documented above (e.g., four landscape photos taken
from each cardinal direction from permanent point, etc.).
Instructions
Table of Contents Photo Point Datasheet
Client Name Conservationist
Photo Point 1 Information Photo Point 2 Information
Date of Photo Date of Photo
Key Area ID Key Area ID
Photographer Photographer
Grazing Unit or Legal Description Grazing Unit or Legal Description
Transect/Photo Bearing (°) or Transect/Photo Bearing (°) or
Direction Direction
Ref. Frame Size (If used) Ref. Frame Size (If used)
Number of Photos Taken Number of Photos Taken
General Descriptions and Comments General Descriptions and Comments
Instructions
Table of Contents
Photo Point Example Sheet
Client Name A. Producer Conservationist S. Rong
Photo Point 1 Information Photo Point 2 Information
Date of Photo 10/15/2009 Date of Photo 10/15/2009
Key Area ID Love Homestead Key Area ID Lost Cabin (1)
Photographer A. Producer Photographer A. Producer
Grazing Unit or Legal Description F14 NW4 65-14 Grazing Unit or Legal Description F14 NW4 65-14
Transect/Photo Bearing (°) or Transect/Photo Bearing (°) or Due north and south from 50' on transect
18° NE
Direction Direction tape (on hill contour)
2
Ref. Frame Size (If used) 2 ft. Ref. Frame Size (If used) NA
Number of Photos Taken 5 Number of Photos Taken 1
General Descriptions and Comments General Descriptions and Comments
Took five close-up photos on the transect. Mostly western Landscape photo away from tank with big draw in background. Good
wheatgrass and blue grama with good productive year. Good western wheatgrass production this fall. Lightly grazed.
residue and ground cover after this grazing season. Lightly
grazed. Went through this pasture once this year.
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Step and Measure DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Step and Measure Datasheet is used to record the heights of grazed and ungrazed key plants to
determine the percent height removed of the grazed plants. Table 3 in the South Dakota (SD)
Monitoring Grazing Lands Technical Note is then referenced to determine the percent of weight
removed (utilization) of the key plants.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in names of the client and assisting conservationist.
Grazing Unit or Legal: At least identify the grazing field number where the photo monitoring was
accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This description should
be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Sampling Interval: This is the interval each sample is taken. If a pace transect is used, enter the
number of paces each sample is taken. If a line transect is used, enter the interval at each sample
point (e.g., three ft.).
Transect Length: If a line transect is used enter the length. If a pace transect is used enter NA.
Unit of Measure: Enter the unit of measure (usually inches) used to determine plant heights.
Period of Grazing Use: Enter the period(s) that livestock grazed the area. Be as specific
(midsummer, June) and include specific dates when possible.
Grazing System: Enter the type of grazing system employed in the field during the current grazing
season (e.g., season-long, deferred, twice over, etc.).
2. Species Heights:
Key Species Name: Enter the key species name(s). Up to three key species can be entered.
Height (Ungrazed and Grazed): Enter the height of each grazed or ungrazed plant encountered
along the transect. Remember, when an ungrazed plant is encountered along the transect, it is
entered as both grazed and ungrazed, as it is part of the plant population that could be grazed and is
used to determine an ungrazed height of the species of interest. If an insufficient number of ungrazed
specimens are encountered along the transect, measurements can be made from under a grazing
exclosure or by measuring subjectively selected ungrazed plants from around the site.
Ave. (Average): This is the average of the heights of the ungrazed column and the grazed column.
Percent of Height Removed: This is determined by subtracting the average height of ungrazed
plants from the average height of grazed plants and dividing that number by the average height of
ungrazed plants.
Percent of Weight Removed (From Monitoring Technical Note Table 3): Using Table 3 in the
Monitoring Grazing Lands Technical Note, determine the percent of weight removed based on percent
of height removed for the key species of interest. This value is the percent utilization.
Instructions
Table of Contents Step & Measure Datasheet
Client Name Sampling Interval
Conservationist Transect Length
Grazing Unit or Legal Unit of Measure
Key Area ID Period of Grazing Use
Date Grazing System
Key Species Name Key Species Name Key Species Name
Height Height Height
No No. No.
Ungrazed Grazed Ungrazed Grazed Ungrazed Grazed
1 1 1
2 2 2
3 3 3
4 4 4
5 5 5
6 6 6
7 7 7
8 8 8
9 9 9
10 10 10
11 11 11
12 12 12
13 13 13
14 14 14
15 15 15
16 16 16
17 17 17
18 18 18
19 19 19
20 20 20
21 21 21
22 22 22
23 23 23
24 24 24
25 25 25
26 26 26
27 27 27
28 28 28
29 29 29
30 30 30
Ave: Ave Ave.
% of Height Removed % of Height Removed % of Height Removed
Percent of Weight Percent of Weight Percent of Weight
Removed (Monitoring Removed (Monitoring Removed (Monitoring
Tech. Note Table 3) Tech.l Note Table 3) Tech.l Note Table 3)
Notes:
Instructions
Table of Contents Step & Measure Example Sheet
Table of Contents Step & Measure Example Sheet
Client Name A. Producer Sampling Interval 3 Paces
Conservationist S. Rong Transect Length NA
Grazing Unit or Legal F-2 Unit of Measure Inches
Key Area ID West Side of Government Draw Season of Use Summer
Date 10/15/2009 Grazing System Defered Rotation
Key Species Name Key Species Name Key Species Name
Western Wheatgrass Needle-and-Thread NA
Height Height Height
No No. No.
Ungrazed Grazed Ungrazed Grazed Ungrazed Grazed
1 15 15 1 21 9 1
2 21 11 2 22 9 2
3 15 15 3 14 4 3
4 15 3 4 17 8 4
5 21 2 5 15 16 5
6 22 2 6 22 4 6
7 18 4 7 8 17 7
8 19 19 8 19 5 8
9 25 4 9 13 18 9
10 20 17 10 14 15 10
11 16 16 11 15 7 11
12 18 18 12 18 3 12
13 19 19 13 19 2 13
14 22 22 14 22 4 14
15 25 25 15 20 3 15
16 30 10 16 16
17 22 1 17 17
18 24 7 18 18
19 28 1 19 19
20 29 5 20 20
21 33 4 21 21
22 25 3 22 22
23 25 2 23 23
24 20 1 24 24
25 19 1 25 25
26 26 26
27 27 27
28 28 28
29 29 29
30 30 30
Ave: 21.8 9.1 Ave 17.3 8.3 Ave.
% of Height Removed %of Height Removed % of Height Removed
58.4% 52.1%
% of Weight Removed % of Weight Removed % of Weight Ungrazed
(From Monitoring Technical (From Monitoring Technical (From Monitoring Technical
Note Table 3) Note Table 3) Note Table 3)
37% 10%
Notes:
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Landscape Appearance DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Landscape Appearance Datasheet is used to collect utilization data, and computes
average utilization for the site of interest when field-specific data is entered.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in names of the client and assisting
conservationist when the method was completed.
Grazing Unit or Legal: Enter the legal desciption or at least identify the grazing field
number where the monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This
description should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the photo was taken.
Sampling Interval: This is the interval each sample is taken. If a pace transect is used,
enter the number of paces each sample is taken. If a line transect is used, enter the
interval at each sample point (e.g., three feet).
Transect Length: If a line transect is used, enter the length. If a pace transect is used,
enter NA.
Period of Grazing Use: Enter the dates the pasture was grazed during that grazing
season. Include all turn in or turnout dates if possible. General time periods (e.g., early
spring) can be used if dates are not known.
2. Complete the Landscape Appearance datasheet based on the observed field
conditions at each sampling point.
Dot Count: Complete a dot count tally for each class interval observed (all descriptions
are provided). Dot counts are a fast and easy way to tally observed instances while
collecting field data. A completed dot count represents 10 observed instances. Each time
an instance is encountered a dot or line is recorded. For the first four instances
encountered, a dot is recorded to form a square. The next six instances are recorded with
lines (to form a box with an X in it). It is easiest to mark dots in a clock-wise fashion as
follows:
No. By Class (C): Tally the dot count and enter the number here.
No. X Midpoint (C) (M): Multiply the dot count tally (C) by the Interval Midpoint (M).
Totals: Sum the column of data of C and sum the column of data of (C)(M).
Average Utilization ∑(CM)÷∑C: Divide the total of (C)(M) by C. This is the average
utilization across the area of interest.
Instructions
Table of Contents Landscape Appearance
Client Name Date
Conservationist Sampling Interval
Grazing Unit or Legal Transect Length
Key Area ID Period of Grazing Use
Interval No. By No. By
Class Dot
Midpoint Class Midpoint Utilization Class Interval Descriptions
Interval Count
(M) (C) (C)(M)
(0-5%) The rangeland shows no evidence of grazing or
0-5% 2.5 0 negligible use.
(6-20%) The rangeland has the appearance of very light
grazing. The herbaceous forage plants may be topped or
6-20% 13 0 slightly used. Current seedstalks and young plants are little
disturbed.
(21-40%) The rangeland may be topped, skimmed, or grazed
in patches. The low value herbaceous plants are ungrazed
21-40% 30 0 and 60 to 80 percent of the number of current seedstalks of
herbaceous plants remain intact. Most young plants are
undamaged.
(41-60%) The rangeland appears entirely covered as
uniformly as natural features and facilities will allow. Fifteen
to 25 percent of the number of current seedstalks of
41-60% 50 0 herbaceous species remain intact. No more than 10 percent
of the number of low-value herbaceous plants are utilized.
(Moderate use does not imply proper use.)
(61-80%) The rangeland has the appearance of complete
search. Herbaceous species are almost completely utilized,
with less than 10 percent of the current seedstalks remaining.
61-80% 70 0 Shoots of rhizomatous grasses are missing. More than 10
percent of the number of low-value herbaceous forage plants
have been utilized.
(81-94%) The rangeland has a mown appearance and there
are indications of repeated coverage. There is no evidence of
reproduction of current seedstalks of herbaceous species.
81-94% 88 0 Herbaceous forage species are completely utilized. The
remaining stubble of preferred grasses is grazed to the soil
surface.
(95-100%) The rangeland appears to be completely utilized.
95-100% 97.5 0 More than 50 percent of the low-value herbaceous plants
have been utilized.
Totals: 0 0 Notes:
Average Utilization:
∑(CM)÷∑C
Instructions
Table of Contents Landscape Appearance
Client Name A. Producer Date 9/15/2008
Conservationist S. Rong Sampling Interval 3 Paces
Grazing Unit or Legal F-2 Transect Length NA
Key Area ID Rim Pasture Period of Grazing Use 5/15-6/1 and 8/10-8/25
Interval No. By No. X
Class Dot
Midpoint Class Midpoint Utilization Class Interval Descriptions
Interval Count
(M) (C) (C)(M)
(0-5%) The rangeland shows no evidence of grazing or
0-5% 2.5 1 2.5 negligible use.
(6-20%) The rangeland has the appearance of very light
grazing. The herbaceous forage plants may be topped or
6-20% 13 1 13 slightly used. Current seedstalks and young plants are little
disturbed.
(21-40%) The rangeland may be topped, skimmed, or grazed
in patches. The low value herbaceous plants are ungrazed
21-40% 30 5 150 and 60 to 80 percent of the number of current seedstalks of
herbaceous plants remain intact. Most young plants are
undamaged.
(41-60%) The rangeland appears entirely covered as
uniformly as natural features and facilities will allow. Fifteen
to 25 percent of the number of current seedstalks of
41-60% 50 10 500 herbaceous species remain intact. No more than 10 percent
of the number of low-value herbaceous forage plants are
utilized. (Moderate use does not imply improper use.)
(61-80%) The rangeland has the appearance of complete
search. Herbaceous species are almost completely utilized,
with less than 10 percent of the current seedstalks remaining.
61-80% 70 16 1120 Shoots of rhizomatous grasses are missing. More than 10
percent of the number of low-value herbaceous forage plants
have been utilized.
(81-94%) The rangeland has a mown appearance and there
are indications of repeated coverage. There is no evidence of
reproduction of current seedstalks of herbaceous species.
81-94% 88 2 176 Herbaceous forage species are completely utilized. The
remaining stubble of preferred grasses is grazed to the soil
surface.
(95-100%) The rangeland appears to be completely utilized.
95-100% 97.5 0 0 More than 50 percent of the low-value herbaceous plants
have been utilized.
Totals: 35 1961.5 Notes:
Average Utilization:
56.0%
∑(CM)÷∑C
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Key Species DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Key Species Datasheet is used to collect key species utilization data and computes
average utilization for the species of interest when field-specific data is entered.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in names of the client and assisting conservationist
when the method was completed.
Grazing Unit or Legal: Enter the legal description or at least identify the grazing field
number where the photo monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This description
should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Sampling Interval: This is the interval each sample is taken. If a pace transect is used,
enter the number of paces each sample is taken. If a line transect is used, enter the interval
at each sample point (e.g., three feet).
Transect Length: If a line transect is used enter the length. If a pace transect is used,
enter NA.
Period of Grazing Use: Enter the dates the pasture was grazed during that grazing
season. Include all turn in or turnout dates if possible. General time periods (e.g., early
spring) can be used if dates are not known.
2. Complete the Landscape Appearance datasheet based on the observed field
conditions at each sampling point.
Key Species: Enter the name of the key species selected for utilization evaluation. Two
species can be entered per datasheet.
Dot Count: Complete a dot count tally for each class interval observed (all descriptions are
provided). Dot counts are a fast and easy way to tally observed instances while collecting
field data. A completed dot count represents 10 observed instances. Each time an instance
is encountered, a dot or line is recorded. For the first four instances encountered, a dot is
recorded to form a square. The next six instances are recorded with lines (to form a box with
an X in it). It is easiest to mark dots in a clock-wise fashion as follows:
No. By Class (C): Tally the dot count and enter the number here.
No. X Midpoint (C) (M): Multiply the dot count tally (C) by the Interval Midpoint (M).
Totals: Sum the column of data of C and sum the column of data of (C)(M).
Average Utilization ∑(CM)÷∑C: Divide the total of (C)(M) by C. This is the average
utilization of the key species.
Instructions
Table of Contents
Key Species Datasheet
Client Name Date
Conservationist Sampling Interval
Grazing Unit or Legal Transect Length
Key Area ID. Period of Grazing Use
Key Species Key Species
Class
Interval Western Wheatgrass Needleandthread
Midpoint No. X No. X Utilization Class Interval Descriptions
Interval No. By No. By
(M) Dot Count Midpoint Dot Count Midpoint
Class (C) Class (C)
(C)(M) (C)(M)
(0-5%) The key species show no evidence of grazing use or
0-5% 2.5 0 0 negligible use.
(6-20%) The key species has the appearance of very light
6-20% 13 0 0 grazing. Plants may be topped or slightly used. Current
seedstalks and young plants are little disturbed.
21-40% 30 0 0 (21-40%) The key species may be topped, skimmed, or
grazed in patches. Between 60 and 80 percent of current
seedstalks remain intact. Most young plants undamaged.
(41-60%) Half of the available forage (by weight) on key
41-60% 50 0 0 species appears to have been utilized. Fifteen to 25 percent
of current seedstalks remain intact.
(61-80%) More than half of the available forage on key
species appears to have been utilized. Less than 10 percent
61-80% 70 0 0
of the current seedstalks remain. Shoots of rhizomatous
grasses are missing.
(81-94%) They key species appear to have been heavily
81-94% 88 0 0 utilized and there are indications of repeated use. There is no
evidence of reproduction or current seed stalks.
95-100% 97.5 0 0 (95-100%) The key species appears to have been completely
utilized The remaining stubble is utilized to the soil surface.
Totals: 0 0 Totals: 0 0 Notes:
Average Utilization:
∑(CM)÷∑C
Instructions
Table of Contents Key Species Example Sheet
Client Name A. Producer Date 11/1/2009
Conservationist S. Rong Sampling Interval 2 Feet
Grazing Unit or Legal F14 Transect Length 200 ft.
Key Area ID Loup Road Exclosure Period of Grazing Use Spring and Fall
Key Species Key Species
Class
Interval Western Wheatgrass Needleandthread
Midpoint No. X No. X Utilization Class Interval Descriptions
Interval No. By No. By
(M) Dot Count Midpoint Dot Count Midpoint
Class (C) Class (C)
(C)(M) (C)(M)
(0-5%) The key species show no evidence of grazing use or
0-5% 2.5 3 7.5 2 5 negligible use.
(6-20%) They key species has the appearance of very light
6-20% 13 6 78 3 39 grazing. Plants may be topped or slightly used. Current
seedstalks and young plants are little disturbed.
21-40% 30 15 450 2 60 (21-40%) The key species may be topped, skimmed, or
grazed in patches. Between 60 and 80 percent of current
seedstalks remain intact. Most young plants undamaged.
(41-60%) Half of the available forage (by weight) on key
41-60% 50 5 250 5 250 species appears to have been utilized. Fifteen to 25 percent
of current seedstalks remain intact.
(61-80%) More than half of the available forage on key
species appears to have been utilized. Less than 10 percent
61-80% 70 1 70 12 840
of the current seedstalks remain. Shoots of rhizomatous
grasses are missing.
(81-94%) They key species appear to have been heavily
81-94% 88 0 0 1 88 utilized and there are indications of repeated use. There is no
evidence of reproduction or current seed stalks.
95-100% 97.5 0 0 0 0 (95-100%) The key species appears to have been completely
utilized. The remaining stubble is utilized to the soil surface.
Totals: 30 855.5 Totals: 25 1282 Notes:
Average Utilization:
28.5% 51.3%
∑(CM)÷∑C
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Paired Plot DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Paired Plot Datasheet computes percent utilization based on comparisons of clipped and
weighed vegetation from inside and outside a grazing exclosure.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in the names of the client and assisting conservationist.
Grazing Unit or Legal: Enter the legal description or at least identify the grazing field number
where the photo monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This description
should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Period of Grazing Use: Enter the period(s) that livestock grazed the area. Be as specific
(midsummer, June) and include specific dates when possible.
Grazing System: Enter the type of grazing system employed in the field during the current
grazing season (season-long, deferred, twice over, etc.).
Plot Frame Size: Enter the size of the plot frame used to clip vegetation.
2. Utilization Data:
Inside Exclosure: These columns are specific to the vegetation harvested within the exclosure
(ungrazed).
Outside the Exclosure: These columns are specific to the vegetation harvested outside the
exclosure (grazed).
Plant Name: Enter plant names clipped if utilization by species is being measured (species are
separated when clipping and weighed separately), otherwise enter "All Vegetation."
Wet Grams: Enter the weight (in grams) of clipped vegetation immediately after they are
clipped.
% Dry Weight: Enter the percent dry weight of the sample. This can be determined in two
ways. The first is by air-drying the clipped vegetation samples for one to two weeks and
reweighing. Dividing the dry weight by the wet weight yields Percent Dry Weight. The second
option is to reference Air-Dry Composition Tables (based on plant type and phenology) to
determine percent air dry matter. If all vegetation is clipped and weighed together then a
weighted figure should be used based on vegetation types/phenologies clipped and their air-dry
values from the tables. Optional: If only a comparison of grazed and ungrazed weights is
desired and no differences between grazed and ungrazed moisture content is suspected, 100
can be entered in % Dry weight.
Dry Grams: This value is auto-calculated by multiplying Percent Dry Wt. by Wet grams.
Lbs/Acre: This value is auto-calculated by multiplying the Dry Grams Value by the plot
conversion factor (based on the size plot frame that was used).
Average: This is the average of the weights in the Lbs/acre column.
% Utilization: This is the measured utilization computed by subtracting the average weight of
vegetation inside the exclosure from the average weight outside the exclosure, then dividing that
number by the average weight inside the exclosure and multiplying by 100.
Instructions
Table of Contents Paired Plot Utilization Datasheet
Client Name Date
Conservationist Period of Grazing Use
Grazing Unit or Legal Grazing System
Key Area ID Plot Frame Size
Inside Exclosure (Ungrazed) Outside Exclosure (Grazed)
Plant Name (Optional) Wet Grams % Dry Wt. Dry Grams Lbs/Acre Plant Name (Optional) Wet Grams % Dry Wt. Dry Grams Lbs/Acre
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0
Average 0 Average 0
% Utilization #DIV/0! lbs/ acre
Instructions
Table of Contents
Paired Plot Utilization Example Sheet
Client Name A. Producer Date 9/2/2009
Conservationist S. Rong Period of Grazing Use Late Summer
Grazing Unit or Legal F7 Grazing System Defered Rotation
Key Area ID Gas Hills Exclosure Plot Frame Size 1.92
Inside Exclosure (Ungrazed) Outside Exclosure (Grazed)
Plant Name (Optional) Wet Grams % Dry Wt. Dry Grams Lbs/Acre Plant Name (Optional) Wet Grams % Dry Wt. Dry Grams Lbs/Acre
All Vegetation 56 63.0% 35.28 1764 All Vegetation 30 73.0% 21.9 1095
All Vegetation 45 62.0% 27.9 1395 All Vegetation 21 66.0% 13.86 693
Average 1579.5 Average 894
% Utilization 43.40% lbs/ acre
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Cover Pole DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Cover Pole is used to measure density of vegetation for the assessment of wildlife
habitat. This data sheet fits the method specifically described in the SD NRCS Monitoring
Grazing Lands Technical Note.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in names of the client and assisting
conservationist when the method was completed.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This
description should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Transect Length: Enter the length of the transect used.
Sampling Interval: Enter the interval that VOR readings (each station) are taken.
2. VOR Readings:
VOR Readings by Station: Enter the VOR reading for each station (enter a 0, 6, 18, or 24).
There are eight readings per station.
Average VOR Reading: This is the average of all VOR readings for the transect or
observation area.
Instructions
Table of Contents
Cover Pole Datasheet
Client Name Key Area ID Transect Length
Conservationist Date Sampling Interval
STATION STATION
VOR READINGS VOR READINGS
# #
1 6
2 7
3 8
4 9
5 10
Avereage VOR Reading
Version: Pyle & Steffen 2008
Instructions
Table of Contents Cover Pole Examplesheet
Client Name A. Producer Key Area ID South Twin Creek Transect Length 100 ft
Conservationist S. Rong Date 5/15/2009 Sampling Interval 10 ft
STATION STATION
VOR READINGS VOR READINGS
# #
6 12 6 0 0 6 6 0
1 6
6 0 6 0 12 0 6 0
12 0 12 6 18 6 12 24
2 7
18 12 6 0 0 6 18 18
0 12 18 0 0 6 18 24
3 8
6 12 18 0 6 6 24 6
6 12 18 0 6 6 0 0
4 9
12 18 24 6 6 24 24 24
24 18 6 6 12 12 0 6
5 10
6 6 6 6 12 12 12 6
Average VOR Reading 9.1
Version: Pyle & Steffen 2008
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Line Point Intercept DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Line Point Intercept Datasheet is used to collect basal and canopy cover and
summarize ground-level cover data.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in the names of the client and assisting
conservationist.
County: Enter the County name where the monitoring point is located.
Grazing Unit or Legal: At least identify the grazing field number where the photo
monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This
description should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Transect Length: Enter the total length of the line point intercept transect.
Sampling Interval: This is the distance between each sampling point (where each pin is
dropped and vegetation data recorded).
Total Number of Pins (Points): The number of points (pins dropped) sampled at the
transect.
2. Summary of Ground-Level Data: This section only pertains to basal (ground-level)
hits by the sampling pin.
Dot Count: Use a dot count system to tally each basal hit by the pin. Cover categories
described in the Monitoring Grazing Lands Technical Note are provided (e.g., Rock
Fragment, Bedrock, etc). Dot counts are a fast and easy way to tally observed instances
while collecting field data. A completed dot count represents 10 observed instances. Each
time an instance is encountered, a dot or line is recorded. For the first four instances
encountered, a dot is recorded to form a square. The next six instances are recorded with
lines (to form a box with an X in it). It is easiest to mark dots in a clock-wise fashion as
follows:
Total Hits: Tally each cover category and record the number of hits.
% Cover (Dot Count ÷ Total # of Pins): This is the percent basal (ground) cover by
category. Divide the Total Hits for each category by the total number of points (pins)
sampled. Note, all ground level cover types are included except bare soil. Percent bare
soil is the difference in the total number of points sampled from the sum of this row.
3. Basal and Canopy: This section is where all canopy and basal data is recorded. Each
row of data represents an exact cover observation between each cover level (from the top
of the canopy to the basal level). Dot counts are used to tally each time that occurrence is
observed.
Top Canopy through Canopy Level 3: This is where canopy hits are recorded (by
species or for litter,etc.). Four levels of canopy can be recorded. Remember that a single
species is only recorded once within the canopy, even if it is "hit" multiple times by the pin.
Basal or Ground Cover: Record what the sampling pin hits at the ground level.
Dot Count: Tally instances observed by using dot counts in this column.
Total: Record the number of each instance interpreted by the dot counts here.
Note: A variety of analyses can be accomplished from the canopy or species-specific
basal data collected by this method. Total canopy cover, canopy cover by species, and
basal cover by species are all optional manual summaries that can be performed.
Instructions
Table of Contents Line Point Intercept Datasheet
Client Name Grazing Unit or Legal Transect Length
Conservationist Key Area ID Sampling Interval
County Date Total Number of Pins
Summary of Ground-Level Cover
Plant Litter
Category Rock Fragment Bedrock Lichen Crust (Herbaceous or Moss Lichen Total
Woody)
Dot Count
Total Hits
% Cover (Dot Count ÷
Total # of Pins)
Basal and Canopy
Top Canopy Canopy Level 1 Canopy Level 2 Canopy Level 3 Basal or Ground Cover Dot Count Total
Total:
Line Point Intercept Example Sheet
Instructions
Table of Contents
Line Point Intercept Example Sheet
Client Name A. Producer Grazing Unit or legal F14 Transect Length/Layout: 100'
Conservationist S. Rong Key Area ID: Sand Draw Sampling Interval: 1 ft
County: Brule Date: 7/15/2009 Total Number of Pins 100
Summary of Ground-Level Cover
Plant Litter
Category Rock Fragment Bedrock Lichen Crust (Herbaceous or Moss Lichen Total
Woody)
Dot Count 0
76
Total Hits 1 0 2 72 0 1
1% 0% 2% 72% 0% 1% 76%
% Cover (Dot Count ÷
Total # of Pins)
Basal and Canopy
Top Canopy Canopy Level 1 Canopy Level 2 Canopy Level 3 Basal or Ground Cover Dot Count Total
Western Wheat Kentucky Bluegrass Litter Litter 30
Western Wheat Blue Grama Kentucky Bluegrass Litter Litter 20
Kentucky Bluegrass Litter Litter 22
Kentucky Bluegrass Blue Grama Thread-Leaf Sedge Bare Soil 16
Litter Bare Soil 3
None Bare Soil 5
Kentucky Bluegrass Thread-Leaf Sedge 1
Litter Kentucky Bluegrass 1
Litter Rock 1
None Lichen 1
Total: 100
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Modified Frequency DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Modified Frequency Datasheet provide a format to calculate percent frequency
(occurrence) on a site and record point cover data from a modified frequency frame
(optional).
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in the names of the client and assisting
conservationist.
County: Enter the County name where the monitoring point is located.
Grazing Unit or Legal: Enter the legal description or least identify the grazing field
number where the photo monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This
description should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Transect Length: Enter the total length of the transect (e.g., 100 ft. etc.).
Sampling Interval: This is the distance between each sampling point (where each frame
is placed and presence/absence data recorded).
Plot Frame Size: Enter the size of the plot frame used to determine plant frequency.
2. Frequency by Plot Frame:
Plant Species: Record each species encountered in the frequency frames.
Frequency by Plot Frame: For each species, place an X under each plot frame number
(box 1-50) that the species occurs in. If the species does not occur at that number plot
frame do not enter anything.
Species Total: This is the total number of times each species was observed within the
plot frame.
% Frequency (Species Total ÷ Total # of Frames): This is the percent frequency of
each species.
3. Cover Summary (Optional): This method incorporates taking cover readings at
designated points on the frequency frame each time the frame is placed on the ground to
record plant frequency.
Vegetation (Canopy), Vegetation (Basal), Litter, etc.: Use a dot count system to tally
each basal hit by the designated points on the frame. Five broad cover types are provided
and if other notable cover types are encountered they can be entered manually under
Other (Specify). Dot counts are a fast and easy way to tally observed instances while
collecting field data. A completed dot count represents 10 observed instances. Each time
an instance is encountered, a dot or line is recorded. For the first four instances
encountered, a dot is recorded to form a square. The next six instances are recorded with
lines (to form a box with an X in it). It is easiest to mark dots in a clock-wise fashion as
follows:
Hits: This is the total number of hits tallied by the dot count.
% Cover: This is the total number of hits for each category ÷ the total number of points
sampled.
Instructions
Table of Contents
Modified Frequency Datasheet
Client Name Grazing Unit or Legal Transect Length feet
Conservationist Key Area ID Sampling Interval feet
County Date Plot Frame Size
Frequency by Plot Frame. Species % Frequency
Plant Species
10 20 30 40 50 Total (Species Total ÷
Cover Summary - Dot Count (OPTIONAL for Point-Cover Data Collection Using Frequency Plot Frame)
Vegetation (Canopy) Vegetation (Basal) Litter Bare Ground Gravel/Stone Other (Specify)
Lichen
Hits: % Cover Hits: % Cover Hits: % Cover Hits: % Cover Hits: % Cover Hits: % Cover
Note: % Cover is the total number of hits for each category ÷ total number of points sampled.
Modified Frequency Examplesheet
Client Name A. Producer Grazing Unit or Legal F-21 Transect Length 100 feet
Conservationist S. Rong Key Area ID Comet Mine Sampling Interval 2 feet
County Brule Date 7/15/2009 Plot Frame Size 2' X 2'
Frequency by Plot Frame. Species % Frequency
Plant Species
10 20 30 40 50 Total (Species Total ÷
Western Wheatgrass X X X X X XXX XXXX XXXX XXXXXXXXXX X XXXXXXXX XX 38 76%
Buffalograss XXX X X XX XX XX 12 24%
Blue Grama X X X X XXXX X XXX X X X XX 18 36%
Scarlet Globemallow X 2 4%
Vetch spp. X X X 3 6%
Lemon Scurfpea X X X X 4 8%
Kentucky Bluegrass XX X X X X 6 12%
Needleandthread X X X X X 5 10%
Thread-Leaf Sedge X XX X XXX 7 14%
Side Oats Grama X X X X X 5 10%
Cactus spp X XXX 4 8%
Rush Skeleton Plant X 1 2%
Sandberg Bluegrass X 1 2%
Fringed Sagewort X 1 2%
Cover Summary - Dot Count (OPTIONAL for Point-Cover Data Collection Using Frequency Plot Frame)
Vegetation (Canopy) Vegetation (Basal) Litter Bare Ground Gravel/Stone Other (Specify)
Lichen
Hits: 35 % Cover Hits: 5 % Cover Hits: 20 % Cover Hits: 20 % Cover
Hits: 4 % Cover Hits: 1 % Cover
Note: % Cover is the total number of hits for each category ÷ total number of points sampled.
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Dry Weight Rank DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Dry-Weight Rank Datasheet provides the evaluation of 10 plant species to determine
relative composition from a plant community.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in the names of the client and assisting
conservationist.
County: Enter the County name where the monitoring point is located.
Grazing Unit or Legal: Enter the legal description or at a minimum identify the grazing
field number where the photo monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This
description should be distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Transect Length: Enter the total length of the transect.
Sampling Interval: This is the distance between each sampling point (where each frame
is placed).
Plot Frame Size: Enter the size of the plot frame used to determine dry-weight rank.
2. Dry Weight Rank:
Plant Name: Record each plant species to be considered for dry-weight rank. Remember
that the top three species observed in each plot frame are considered. This form allows
consideration of 10 plant species.
Rank by Subplot: Place a X for each species under each subplot number (up to twenty)
to rank it as "High" (most productive by weight), "Med" (second most productive by weight),
or "Low" (third most productive by weight) species in the plot frame. If only one species
occurs in the frame, rank it 1, 2, and 3. If only two species occur in the plot frame, rank
them in any combination based on their judged presence by weight (1st species, 2nd
species... etc.).
3. Computations:
Rank Tally: This is the tally for each species of high, low, or medium Instances.
Weighted: This is a weighted value based on the Rank Talley of each species for "High,"
"Med," and "Low," multiplied by 7 (for assumption of 70 percent composition), 2 (for
assumption of 20 percent composition), and 1 (for assumption of 10 percent composition),
respectively.
% Comp: This is the percent composition of each species. It is determined by dividing
each specie's weighted value by the sum of all species weighted values.
Instructions
Table of Contents Dry Weight Rank Plot Datasheet
Client Name Grazing Unit or Legal Transect Length
Conservationist Key Area ID Sampling Interval
County Date Subplot Frame
Rank by Subplot Rank Talley
Plant ID Weighted % Comp
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 High Med Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
High
Med 0 0 0 0
Low
Total 0 0 0 0 0
Observations/ Comments
Instructions
Table of Contents Dry Weight Rank Plot Example Sheet
Client Name A. Producer Grazing Unit or Legal F7 Transect Length 100'
Conservationist S. Rong Key Area ID West of Cottonwood Pass Sampling Interval 5'
County Brule Date 7/15/2009 Subplot Frame 1.92 ft2
Rank by Subplot Rank Talley
Plant ID Weighted % Comp
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 High Med Low
High X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Western Wheat Med X X 13 2 0 111 27.7
Low
Needleand- High X X
Med X X X X X X X 2 7 3 90 22.4
thread Low X X X
Thread-Leaf High X
Med X X X X 1 4 6 59 14.7
Sedge Low X X X X X X
Fringed High X
Med X X 1 2 1 29 7.2
Sagewort Low X
Prairie High X
Med X X 1 2 3 33 8.2
Junegrass Low X X X
Kentucky High X
Med X X 1 2 2 31 7.7
Bluegrass Low X X
High X
Blue Grama Med X X 1 2 1 29 7.2
Low X
High X
Wooly Loco Med X 1 1 1 19 4.7
Low X
High
Med
Low
High
Med
Low
Total 21 22 17 401 100
Observations/ Comments
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
MDWR 3 Plot DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The Modified Dry Weight Rank (MDWR) Datasheet combines dry weight rank and comparative yield data and
calculates the production (in pounds per acre) of the dominant species on a site. This datasheet is fully automated
and all calculations should be done using the datasheet. No manual calculation descriptions are provided with this
instruction.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in the names of the client and assisting conservationist.
County: Enter the County name where the monitoring point is located.
Grazing Unit or Legal: At least identify the grazing field number where the photo monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This description should be
distinguishable and be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Transect Length: Enter the total length of the line point intercept transect.
Sampling Interval: This is the distance between each sampling point (where each frame is placed).
Plot Frame Size: Enter the size of the plot frame used to determine comparative yield. This should be the same
size used for dry-weight rank.
2. Comparative Yield Subplot Data Summary:
Comparative Yield Subplots: Enter clipping data for the highest producing subplot, the intermediate producing
subplot, and the lowest producing subplot in green weight (wet) grams under column headings 1 (high), 2 (med),
and 3 (low), respectively. This data in combination with the reconstruction factors entered below yield an average
clipped subplot weight (Ave. Subplot Wt.).
% Dry Weight: Enter the percent dry weight of each sample. This is best accomplished by air-drying the clipped
vegetation samples for one to two weeks and reweighing. Dividing the dry weight by the wet weight yields percent
dry weight. Another option is to reference Air-Dry Composition tables (based on plant type and phenology) to
determine percent air dry matter. In instances such as this when all vegetation is clipped and weighed together then
a weighted figure should be used based on vegetation types/phenologies clipped and their air-dry values from the
tables.
% Ungrazed: Ender the percentage of vegetation (by average) of the three clipped subplots that is ungrazed. This
is done visually or by consulting Table 3 in the Monitoring Grazing Lands Technical Note.
% Growth Completed: Enter the percent of the plants total annual growth that has been completed. These figures
are available from NARKS, particularly from the Form SD-ECS-20 Production IS Worksheet.
% Normal Climate: Enter the percent normal climate which is the percent of production above or below normal.
based on above or below average precipitation. This figure can be based on individual observations or determined
by using the percent of normal calculator (based on precipitation) available within the Monitoring Datasheets.
Pounds/Ac (green wt.): This is the as-clipped (wet) weight of each subplot in lbs/ac.
Relative Weights: This is the relative weight of each subplot compared to the most productive (heaviest). It is the
reconstructed weight of each subplot divided by the reconstructed weight of the heaviest subplot.
Site Lbs/Acre: This is the lbs per acre after all comparative yield and dry weight rank data has been completed.
3. Dry Weight Rank Datasheet:
Relative Yield: For each subplot (up to 30) along the transect, enter the comparative yield plot number (1, 2, or 3,
i.e., high, medium, or low) that most resembles it.
Species Name: Record each plant species to be considered for dry-weight rank. Remember that the top three
species observed in each plot frame are considered. This form allows consideration of 10 plant species.
Rk.: Place an X for each species under each subplot number (up to 20) to rank it as "High" (most productive by
weight), "Med" (second most productive by weight), or "Low" (third most productive by weight) species in the plot
frame. If only one species occurs in the frame, rank it 1, 2, and 3. If only two species occur in the plot frame, rank
them in any combination based on their judged presence by weight (one species 1, and 2, the other 3, one species 1
and 3 the other 2, etc.).
% Comp.: This is the computation of percent composition for each species.
Lbs/ac: This is the computed pounds per acre for each species based on Percent Comp. and Site Lbs./Acre.
Totals: These are the individual sums of the percent composition and the lbs./ac. columns.
No. of Subplots: Enter the number of subplots sampled.
Ave Rel. Yield: This is the average relative yield of all subplot sampled.
Instructions
Table of Contents
Dry Weight Rank 3 Plot Datasheet
Client name Grazing Unit or Legal Transect Length
Conservationist Key Area ID Sample Interval
County Date Plot Frame Size 1.92
Comparative Yield Subplot Data Summary
Comp Yield Subplots 1 (high) 2 (med) 3 (low)
Green Weight (grams)
% Dry Weight
% Ungrazed
% Growth Completed Enter Clipped Plot data
% Normal Climate
Pounds/Ac (green wt.) 0.0 0.0 0.0
Reconstructed Lbs. / Acre 0.0 0.0 0.0
Relative Weights 0.00 0.00 0.00
Ave Subplot Wt. 0.0
Site Lbs/Acre 0.0
Subplot production rank based on comparative yield subplots
Enter which PLOT ("1","2",or"3") above most acurately reflects each SUBPLOTS production.
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Relative Yield
Dry Weight Rank Data Sheet
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Species Name Rk.
Weight
% Comp. lbs/ac
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.00
Totals 0 0
No. of Subplots
Ave. Rel. Yield
Instructions
Table of Contents
Dry Weight Rank 3 Plot Examplesheet
Dry Weight Rank 3 Plot ExampleSheet
Client name A. Producer Grazing Unit or Legal F-22 Transect Length 90
Conservationist S. Rong Key Area ID Baldwin Creek Total Plot Frames 30
County Buffalo Date 7/11/2009 Plot Frame Size 1.92
Comparative Yield Subplot Data Summary
Comp Yield Subplots 1 (high) 2 (med) 3 (low)
Green Weight (grams) 33.0 27.0 22.0
% Dry Weight 65% 65% 65%
% Ungrazed 99% 99% 99%
% Growth Completed 77% 77% 77% Enter Clipped Plot data
% Normal Climate 99% 99% 99%
Pounds/Ac (green wt.) 1650.0 1350.0 1100.0
Reconstructed Lbs. / Acre 1245.2 1018.8 830.1
Relative Weights 1.00 0.82 0.67
Ave Subplot Wt. 1031.4
Site Lbs/Acre 1078.1
Subplot production rank based on comparative yield subplots
Enter which PLOT ("1," "2," or"3") above most acurately reflects each SUBPLOTS production.
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
2 1 2 3 3 3 1 2 3 3 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 3 2 1 2 1 2 3 3 3 1 2 2
Relative Yield 0.8 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.7 0.7 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.8 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.8 1.0 0.8 1.0 0.8 0.7 0.7 0.7 1.0 0.8 0.8
Dry Weight Rank Data Sheet
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Species Name Rk.
Weight
% Comp. lbs/ac
1st X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Western Wheat 2nd X X X X X X X
3rd X X X X
1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 44.24 476.9
1st X X X X X
Blue Grama 2nd X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
3rd X X X
0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 23.48 253.2
Needleand-
1st X X X X X
2nd X
thread
3rd X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 14.88 160.4
Thread-Leaf
1st X X
2nd X X X
Sedge
3rd X X
0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.37 68.7
1st X
Fringed Sage 2nd X X X
3rd X
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4.28 46.2
1st X X
Silver Sage 2nd X X
3rd X X X
0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6.75 72.7
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00
Totals 100 1078
No. of Subplots
Ave. Rel. Yield
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
MDWR 5 Plot DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The MDWR Datasheet combines dry weight rank and comparative yield data and calculates the production (in pounds per
acre) of the dominant species on a site. This datasheet is fully automated and all calculations should be done using the
datasheet. No manual calculation descriptions are provided with this instruction.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in the names of the client and assisting conservationist.
County: Enter the County name where the monitoring point is located.
Grazing Unit or Legal: At least identify the grazing field number where the monitoring was accomplished.
Key Area ID: Identify the key area either by number or a descriptive name. This description should be distinguishable and
be reflected on the monitoring plan datasheet.
Date: This is the month, day, and year the monitoring was accomplished.
Transect Length: Enter the total length of the line point intercept transect.
Sampling Interval: This is the distance between each sampling point (where each frame is placed).
Plot Frame Size: Enter the size of the plot frame used to determine comparative yield. This should be the same size used
for dry-weight rank.
2. Comparative Yield Datasheet:
Comparative Yield Subplots: Enter clipping data for the highest producing subplot, three intermediate producing subplots,
and the lowest producing subplot in green weight (wet) grams under column headings 1 (high), 2, 3, 4 (med.), and 5 (low),
respectively. This data in combination with the reconstruction factors entered below yield an average clipped subplot weight
(Ave. Subplot Wt.).
% Dry Weight: Enter the percent dry weight of each sample. This is best accomplished by air-drying the clipped vegetation
samples for one to two weeks and reweighing. Dividing the dry weight by the wet weight yields percent Dry Weight. Another
option is to reference Air-Dry Composition tables (based on plant type and phenology) to determine percent air dry matter. In
instances such as this when all vegetation is clipped and weighed together then a weighted figure should be used based on
vegetation types/phenologies clipped and their air-dry values from the tables.
% Ungrazed: Ender the percentage of vegetation (by average) of the three clipped subplots that is ungrazed. This is done
visually or by consulting Table 3 in the Monitoring Grazing Land Technical Note.
% Growth Completed: Enter the percent of the plants total annual growth that has been completed. These figures are
available from NRCS, particularly from the Form SD-ECS-20 Production SI Worksheet.
% Normal Climate: Enter the percent normal climate which is the percent of production above or below normal, based on
above or below average precipitation. This figure can be based on individual observations or determined by using the
percent of normal calculator (based on precipitation) available within the Monitoring Datasheets.
Pounds/Ac (green wt.): This is the as-clipped (wet) weight of each subplot in lbs./ac.
Relative Weights: This is the relative weight of each subplot compared to the most productive (heaviest). It is the
reconstructed weight of each subplot divided by the reconstructed weight of the heaviest subplot.
Site Lbs/Acre: This is the lbs. per acre after all Comparative Yield and Dry Weight Rank data has been completed.
3. Dry Weight Rank Datasheet:
Relative Yield: For each subplot (up to 30) along the transect, enter the comparative yield plot number (1, 2, or 3, i.e., high,
medium, or low) that most resembles it.
Plant Name: Record each plant species to be considered for dry-weight rank. Remember that the top three species
observed in each plot frame are considered. This form allows consideration of 10 plant species.
Rk.: Place an X for each species under each subplot number (up to twenty) to rank it as "High" (most productive by weight),
"Med" (second most productive by weight), or "Low" (third most productive by weight) species in the plot frame. If only one
species occurs in the frame, rank it 1, 2, and 3. If only two species occur in the plot frame, rank them in any combination
based on their judged presence by weight (one species 1, and 2, the other 3, one species 1 and 3 the other 2, etc.).
% Comp.: This is the computation of percent composition for each species.
Lbs/ac: This is the computed pounds per acre based on Percent Comp. and Site Lbs./Acre.
Totals: These are the individual sums of the percent composition and the lbs./ac. columns.
No. of Subplots: Enter the number of subplots sampled (up to 30).
Ave Rel. Yield: This is the average relative yield of all subplots sampled.
Instructions
Table of Dry Weight Rank 5 Plot Datasheet
Client name Grazing Unit or Legal Transect Length
Conservationist Key Area ID Sampling Interval
County Date Plot Frame Size 1.92
Comparative Yield Subplot Data Summary
Comp Yield Subplots 1 (high) 2 (med) 3 (med) 4 (med) 5 (low)
Green Weight (grams)
% Dry Weight
% Ungrazed
% Growth Completed Enter Clipped Plot data
% Normal Climate
Pounds/Ac. (green wt.) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Reconstructed Lbs. / Acre 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Relative Weights 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Ave. Subplot Wt. 0.0
Site Lbs./Acre 0.0
Subplot production rank based on comparative yield subplots
Enter which Plot ("1," "2," "3," "4," or "5") above most accurately reflects each Subplot's production.
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Relative Yield
Dry Weight Rank Data Sheet
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Species Name
Rk. %
Wt. Comp. lbs/ac
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0.00 0.00
Totals 0 0
Number of Quads.
Ave. Rel. Yield
Instructions
Table of Dry Weight Rank 5 Plot Examplesheet
Client name A. Producer Grazing Unit or Legal F-22 Transect Length 90 ft
Conservationist S. Rong Key Area ID Baldwin Creek Total Plot Frames 30
County Buffalo Date 7/11/2009 Plot Frame Size 1.92
Comparative Yield Subplot Data Summary
Comp Yield Subplots 1 (high) 2 (med) 3 (med) 4 (med) 5 (low)
Green Weight (grams) 45.0 41.0 39.0 33.00 22.00
% Dry Weight 65% 65% 65% 65% 65%
% Ungrazed 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
% Growth Completed 75% 75% 75% 75% 75% Enter Clipped Plot data
% Normal Climate 95% 95% 95% 95% 95%
Pounds/Ac (green wt.) 2250.0 2050.0 1950.0 1650.0 1100.0
Reconstructed Lbs. / Acre 1603.1 1460.6 1389.4 1175.6 783.8
Relative Weights 1.00 0.65 0.62 0.52 0.35
Ave Subplot Wt. 1484.4
Site Lbs/Acre 1064.5
Subplot production rank based on comparative yield subplots
Enter which Plot ("1," "2," "3," "4," ,or "5") above most acurately reflects each Subplot's production.
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
1 2 1 3 5 3 4 3 2 1 4 5 4 2 1 1 1 2 3 4 3 2 1 2 3 4 3 5 4 4
Relative Yield 1.0 0.6 1.0 0.6 0.3 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.6 1.0 0.5 0.3 0.5 0.6 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.6 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.6 1.0 0.6 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.3 0.5 0.5
Dry Weight Rank Data Sheet
Subplot #
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Species Name
Rk. %
Wt. Comp. lbs/ac
1st X X X X X X X X X X X XX X
X X X X X X X
Western Wht 2nd X X X X X X X X X X X X X
3rd X X X X X X X X
1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 63.03 670.9
1st X X X X X
Thread leaf
2nd X X X X X X X
sedge
3rd X X X X
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 18.10 192.7
1st X X
Blue Grama 2nd X X X X X
3rd X X X X X X X X X X X X X
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11.39 121.3
1st
Fringed Sage 2nd X X
3rd X
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.39 14.8
1st
Cudweed Sage 2nd X X
3rd X
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1.68 17.9
1st X X
Sandberg
2nd X
Bluegrass
3rd X X X
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4.41 46.9
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.0
1st
2nd
3rd
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00 0.00
Totals 100 1064
Number of Quads.
Ave. Rel. Yield
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Percent of Normal Production DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
The percent of normal datasheet estimates the current year's percent of normal vegetation
(forage) production using the current and previous year's precipitation data.
1. General Information:
Client Name and Conservationist: Fill in names of the client and assisting conservationist
when the method was completed.
County: Enter the county where percent of normal vegetation production will be applied.
Year: Enter the year percent of normal production will be calculated for.
Precip. Location Description (If actual precip. data used): This is the location description
of the rain guage used to collect precipitation data if "actual" precipitation data is used. In
most cases, existing data is used from an existing source. See "Note" below.
2. Precipitation Data:
Historical (30-yr) Ave.: Enter the 30-year average rainfall amounts (in inches) for each
month in the water year. The water year is July through June.
Previous Yr.: Enter the previous year (e.g., 2008) and the precipitation amount (in inches)
for the previous "water year" year by month.
Current Yr.: Enter the current year (e.g., 2008) and the precipitation amount (in inches) for
the current "water year" by month. If the water year is not over, but has elapsed to at least
July, enter the 30-year average monthly precipitation to predict precipitation (this is
necessary for the worksheet calculations to work).
Sum: This is the individual sums of Historical (30-Yr.) Ave., Previous Yr., and Current Yr.
Average for previous yr…. This is the percent of normal production for the previous year
multiplied by 0.25.
Average for current yr…. This is the percent of normal production for the current year
multiplied by 0.75.
Weighted average to determine percent... This is the percent of normal production for the
current year.
Note: Precipitation data for use with this worksheet can be found online at:
http://climate.sdstate.edu/climate_site/archive_data.htm.
Instructions
Determination of Percent of Normal Production
Table of Contents
Client Name Year
Precip. Location Description
County
(If actual precip, data used)
Precipitation Data
Month July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Sum Hist.- Ave.
Historical (30-Yr.) Ave. 0
Previous Yr. 0.00 0
Current Yr. 0.00 0
Average for pervious yr. water/forage year: #DIV/0! x 0.25 = #DIV/0!
Average for current yr. water/forage year: #DIV/0! x 0.75 = #DIV/0!
Weighted average to determine percent of normal production: #DIV/0!
Example Determination of Percent of Normal Production
Client Name A. Producer Year 2009
Precip. Location Description
County Brule NA
(If actual precip. data used)
Precipitation Data
Month July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Sum Hist.-Ave.
Historical (30-Yr.) Ave. 1.03 0.48 0.36 0.42 0.43 0.86 1.78 2.87 3.02 2.04 1.58 1.1 15.97
Previous Yr. 2008 0.95 0.47 0.25 0.44 0.45 1.2 0.9 1.45 2 1.7 0.5 0.75 11.06 15.97
Current Yr. 2009 0.85 0.5 0.2 0.2 0.1 1 2.5 1.5 2.5 2 2 3.5 16.85 15.97
Average for pervious yr. water/forage year: 69.25% x 0.25 = 17.31%
Average for current yr. water/forage year: 105.51% x 0.75 = 79.13%
Weighted average to determine percent of normal production: 96.45%
Table of Contents Datasheet/Examplesheet
Precipitation DataSheet Instructions
Introduction:
Precipitation records are useful to track changes and differences in precipitation
periodically and annually from long term averages. This information is often used to
predict rangeland forage production or deficits.
1. General Information:
Client Name: Enter the name of the client.
County: Enter the name of the county where the data precipitation collection site is
located.
Location Description: Enter a location description or legal description of the site where
precipitation data is collected.
Collection Interval: Enter how often (roughly) precipitation is to be collected. At least
once per week is optimum.
Ave. Ann. Precip. (in.): Enter the average annual precipitation from long-term (usually 30-
year) precipitation records or from long-term rain gauge data.
Date: Enter the year of the precipitation data.
2. Precipitation Data:
Measured Precipitation Data: Enter precipitation data into the appropriate cell (month
and day) that the precipitation data was observed. This value is almost always in inches.
Precipitation information is usually measured between March or April through October or
November. Record this number in 0.1 in increments.
Total: This is the total precipitation for each month.
30-Year Average: Enter the 30-year average for each month.
30-Year Average Difference: This is the difference between actual measured
precipitation and the 30-year average. This value is how much under or over (in inches) a
particular climate monitoring location is.
Important Note: If using long-term climate data from an existing source, it is
recommended to use information provided by the High Plains Regional Climate Center.
Available:
http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/data/historical/index.php?state=sd&action=select_state&submit=
Select+State.
Remarks: Describe any remarkable precipitation patterns or notes for the year.
Instructions
Table of Contents
Precipitation Datasheet
Client Name Location Description Ave. Ann. Precip. (in)
County Collection Interval Year
Day Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Total: 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
30-Year-
Average
30-yr ave.
Difference 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Remarks: (Note severe weather, unusual temperatures, etc.)
Instructions
Table of Contents Precipitation Example Sheet
Client Name A. Producer Location Description Field 4 Ave. Ann. Precip. (in) 18"
County Buffalo Collection Interval 1 week Year 2009
Day Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
1 0 0.6
2 0.2 TR 0.75
3
4 0.7 0.5
5 0.2
6 0.5 1 0.5 TR
7
8 1 0.4
9 0.75 0.9
10 TR
11 1 0.6
12 TR
13 0.8 0.2 0.2
14 TR
15 0.5 0.1 0
16 0.5
17 0.5 1
18 0.8
19
20 0.5 0.2
21 0 TR
22 TR
23 0
24 0.1 TR
25 2.5
26 0
27 0.7 0.2
28 0.2 0.4
29 0.7 TR
30 0.8
31 0.1
Total: 0 0 2.2 3.25 2.4 5.5 3.25 0.9 1.1 2 0 0
30-Year-
0.37 0.45 1.5 2.2 2 2.97 2.9 2.1 1.8 1.7 1.5 0.37
Average
30-yr ave.
(0.37) (0.45) 0.70 1.05 0.40 2.53 0.35 (1.20) (0.70) 0.30 (1.50) (0.37)
Difference
Remarks: (Note severe weather, unusual temperatures, etc.)
Had good rain in June. Last part of the summer was dry. Checked rain gauge station at least once per week.