Tree ID & Mapping
Purpose
- To prepare the Carbon Cycle Sample Site for tree measurement by identifying and mapping all trees greater than 15cm circumference. Students will use scientific field methods including, azimuth, distance to trees from center, breast height at 1.35m, and species ID using a scientific key.
Overview
Students begin by re-examining the unit essential question, how much carbon is being stored in the forest ecosystem near my school? Using the skills they gained during the Carbon Cycle Sample Site Set Up students will work in small groups and use scientific field methods to map and identify trees on the Carbon Cycle Sample Site.
Essential Questions
How much carbon is being stored in the Carbon Cycle Sample Site?
How much carbon is being stored in the forest ecosystem near my school?
Student Outcomes
- Students will work as a team to delegate and complete field tasks.
- Students will use their knowledge about accuracy and precision to carry out scientific measurements (azimuth, distance, CBH) on all trees greater than 15cm circumference in the Carbon Cycle Sample Site.
- Students will use tree identification keys and guides to ID trees to at least the genus level or common species group, e.g. pine, spruce, birch.
Science Concepts
Time/Frequency
60 - 90 minutes
Only needs to be completed once for each sample site.
Level
Middle & High School