To assess patterns in above ground biomass production, litter decomposition, and soil water relations across topographic gradients in two watersheds: one annually burned and one unburned.
LOCATION OF SAMPLING STATIONS Transects run west to east in annually burned 001D (grid S-25, S-26) and east to west in unburned 020B (N-29), see Fig. 21. Four foot tall conduit markers are located at each of the 11 sampling locations in each watershed. TDR probes are located adjacent to the conduit and sample at 15 and 30 cm depths where soil depth is sufficient. Litter bags are also placed along these transects.
FREQUENCY OF SAMPLING
Above ground biomass is sampled in late August-September each year. Soil moisture is sampled approximately every two weeks. Litter bags are sampled intermittently.
VARIABLES MEASURED
Total aboveground biomass per unit area and associated sub- categories as in PAB01. METHODS
Aboveground biomass is harvested from four 0.1 m2 quadrats at each sampling location. Biomass is sorted and weighed as in PAB01.