9. Name: Ecosystem aassification Handbook. 



Authors: Wendel J. Hann and Marie E. Jensen. 



Reference: Hann, W.J., and M.E. Jensen. 1987. Ecosystem classification handbook. Chapter 

 4 - Ecodata sampling methods. Region I, USDA, Forest Service. Missoula, Montana. 



Objectives: The classification handbook is a total effort to integrate data inventory and 

 analysis of terrestrial and riparian habitats and to combine this information into classification. 

 The procedure is a means for the collection, management, and interpretation of data. Just 

 about any taxonomical classification would be served by the ECODATA system. 



Designed Users: Land managers and biologists. 



Area of Applicability: United States (although system could be used anywhere). 



Classification Units, Description, and Data: 



The procedure reviewed did not include any typically hierarchical format, although the 

 attributes collected during the inventory, the inventory design and mapping procedures, and 

 the nomenclature all point to a very complete but flexible hierarchical structure. The units 

 below are given in order of typically structured hierarchical procedures. Mapping terms are: 



Classification Units 



Polygon 



Stand 



Stratum 



Complex 



Inclusion 



Range Type 



Description 



A contiguous unit of land which is delineated on a map or 

 aerial photo within a closed boundary. Can contain similar 

 or dissimilar strata. 



A type of polygon which is designed to describe one domi- 

 nant stratum type within a unifonn environmental setting. 



A vegetation classification category defined at any level of 

 resolution dependent upon classification needs. A vegetation 

 type stratum contains all the land within a defmed vegetation 

 type. A community type stratum contains all the land within 

 one particular serai or climax community type. 



Where two or more dissimilar vegetation stratum are in the 

 same stand (polygon) and each makes up greater than 20 

 percent of the stand area. 



Where a dissimilar vegetation stratum comprises less than 10 

 percent of the stand or polygon area (vegetation). 



Delineation of major form type riparian and nonriparian 

 (grassland, meadow, perennial forb, sagebrush, browse- 

 mountain shrub, conifer, rock, broadleaf trees, badlands). 



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