Combining mapped and statistical data in forest ecological inventory and monitoring - Supplementing an existing system

A forest ecological inventory and monitoring system combining information d erived from maps and samples is proposed based on ecosystem regions (Bailey , 1994). The system extends the design of the USDA Forest Service Region 6 Inventory and Monitoring System (R6IMS) in the Pacific Northwest of the Uni ted States. The key uses of the information are briefly discussed and expec ted results are illustrated with examples. The system is flexible, allowing regions based on ecological considerations to be modified. Sampling intens ities that are affordable are likely to be insufficient to provide meaningf ul estimates for key parameters relating to rare and endangered species, wa tersheds, and other ecological units. Methods are proposed for collecting a dditional information in follow-up surveys and combining it with relevant i nformation obtained in R6IMS. Near-continuous information on weather and po ssible pollution variables recorded by instruments at sampling sites is nee ded to develop meaningful models to understand what is happening in the eco regions. R6IMS and the proposed additions constitute a dynamic system which will be modified further as data are analyzed.