Across Beech Run a gorge slope is Scarlet Oak and Pitch pine forest. Plateau above is similar forest to this plot with narrow floodplain along Beech Run. Also see NPS monitoring plots in vicinity.;Convex upper gorge slope below rock ledges, above a drain with rhododendron and hemlock in understory. Colluvial rocky slope supports an oak-hickory forest with some ericads in the shrub layer but not really xeric oak. Sounds include trickle from Beech Run, Roar from Gauley River, and insect song. Fire scars on most big trees. Rocky soil.
Representativeness
Plot represents deciduous forest photo signature on upper gorge slope. Probably repeats in patches according to aspect. Placed to avoid hemlock which comes in below (see NPS monitoring plot 81).