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
200
m²
Plot Quality Fields:
Plot Validation Level
(2) classification plot: sufficient for inclusion in a classification revision
Overall Plot Vegetation Fields:
Tree Height
7
m
Shrub Height
6
m
Field Height
1
m
Tree Cover
10
%
Shrub Cover
30
%
Field Cover
5
%
Nonvascular Cover
75
%
Misc Fields:
Observation Narrative
Plot captures the most xeric and open extreme of an extensive lithophytic woodland with mixed dominance by Pinus pungens, Pinus virginiana, and Quercus spp. Deciduous ericads, Schizachyrium scoparium, and other xerophytic herbs are characteristic of the field layer. The dominant lichens on exposed rock surfaces in the plot are Lasallia pensylvanica and Xanthoparmelia conspersa. Plot size was constrainged to 200 sq. m. by cliff-like topography on three sides.
Very little mineral soil present. Mostly organic deposits in crevices and on flat shelves of the outcrop. Composite sample from two locations collected.
Disturbance Data:
Disturbance Type
Disturbance Intensity
Disturbance Comment
unknown
A few seedlings and small stems of Ailanthus altissima are present at this site.