Releve Virginia Division of Natural Heritage, see http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural_heritage/documents/nh_plotform_instructions.pdf
Overall Taxon Cover Values are Automatically Calculated?
no
Stem Observation Area
400
m²
Plot Quality Fields:
Plot Validation Level
(2) classification plot: sufficient for inclusion in a classification revision
Overall Plot Vegetation Fields:
Tree Cover
40
%
Shrub Cover
50
%
Field Cover
50
%
Misc Fields:
Observation Narrative
The plot is located on dry, sheltered bayside dunes which support an open, deciduous woodland. Stunted Prunus serotina is particularly characteristic of the canopy, but shares dominance with Sassafras albidum and Malus angustifolia in places. Diospyros virginiana is important in the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer is dominated by Schizachyrium littorale, but contains a considerable diversity of xerophytic grasses and forbs. This vegetation may have some affinity to maritime forests of the Prunus serotina - Amelanchier canadensis - Quercus spp. alliance, but differs rather dramatically in its woodland physiognomy, abundant grasses, and xeric dune habitat. It appears to be a rare and localized community type in Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and in Virginia; a larger example has been documented on Wallops Island, another barrier island in Accomack County.
Plot encompasses two short slopes and a crest. Slope averages 10 degrees; steepest slope is 13 degrees.
Small dune on west side of road, 0.15 mi north of Ragged Point Impoundment and 0.5 mi ENE of Cherrytree Hill.
