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
1000
m²
Plot Quality Fields:
Plot Validation Level
(2) classification plot: sufficient for inclusion in a classification revision
Overall Plot Vegetation Fields:
Tree Height
40
m
Shrub Height
6
m
Field Height
5
m
Tree Cover
80
%
Shrub Cover
80
%
Field Cover
75
%
Misc Fields:
Observation Narrative
Sampling site is an elevated, well-drained floodplain adjacent to Briery Creek, just upstream from its confluence with a major tributary and just downstream from the dam for Briery Lake. Plot was initially sampled in early spring, prior to full leaf-out of trees and shrubs, so cover estimates are somewhat tentative. The vernal herbaceous flora is relatively diverse with spring ephemerals and nutrient-demanding species. A summer revisit is needed.
0-1 cm: thin deciduous leaf litter
1+ cm: heavy clay loam - medium brown to orange
Disturbance Data:
Disturbance Type
Disturbance Intensity
Disturbance Comment
unknown
The dam for Briery Lake, a short distance upstream from plot, has likely altered the site hydrology. Evidence of recent flooding was observed, but flood frequency and intensity are likely reduced. Signs of beaver and deer observed in and near plot.