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 Height
10
m
Shrub Height
6
m
Field Height
1
m
Tree Cover
5
%
Shrub Cover
35
%
Field Cover
20
%
Nonvascular Cover
60
%
Misc Fields:
Observation Narrative
A long, narrow plot configuration was used to capture the habitat and vegetational variability across two granitic pavements and intervening soil deposits. Xanthoparmelia conspersa is the most abundant and conspicuous lichen on the opn rock surfaces in this community. The bryophyte Grimmia laevigata forms dense patches in slight crevices which receive periodic moisture.
Soil is limited to shallow mats and pockets between the large granitic outcrops. It a meduim-brown, clay loam. A composite sample was collected from two locations.
Disturbance Data:
Disturbance Type
Disturbance Intensity
Disturbance Comment
unknown
Commelina communis is the most problematic exotic, occurring locally in moderate numbers. The plot is just downslope from the popular Whiteoak Canyon Trail, but the outcrop is surprisingly undisturbed. Minor trampling damage was seen at the very top, near the trail.