DIFFICULTIES

Experimental Design:

The study employs a systematic sampling approach to collect data at three distinct locations along an environmental gradient in Knox Mountain Park: the base of the mountain (lower elevation), midway up the mountain (on a moderate slope), and at the top slope of the mountain. Within each location, two 50 cm by 50 cm quadrats are systematically placed 1 meter apart, providing a structured and representative coverage of each area. The selected plant species for observation include Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine, with additional data collected on Apache Plume, Dogwood, and Blue Fescue for a comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem.

Variables to be measured include the presence and abundance of each plant species, soil nutrient levels, erosion rates, sunlight exposure, water availability, soil texture, and ph. Abundance will be recorded as the number of individuals of each species within each quadrat. Soil nutrient levels will be assessed using appropriate soil testing methods. Erosion rates will be categorized as low, medium, or high based on visual inspection. Sunlight exposure and water availability will be qualitatively assessed, and soil texture and pH will be measured using standard laboratory procedures. Statistical analyses, such as correlation tests, will be employed to evaluate the relationships between plant abundance and environmental variables.

Replicates: In this ecological study, the replicates refer to the multiple instances of the 50 cm by 50 cm quadrats that are systematically placed within each location along the environmental gradient in Knox Mountain Park. Total six replicates have been chosen – Two replicates (quadrats) are selected at each of the three distinct locations: the base of the mountain (lower elevation), midway up the mountain (on a moderate slope), and at the top slope of the mountain. This replication allows for the collection of data from multiple points within each environmental setting, contributing to the robustness and reliability of the study’s findings.

Variables:

1. Response Variables:
   • Density of Douglas Fir, Apache Plume, Blue Fescue, Dogwood and Ponderosa Pine Trees: This variable represents the number of individuals of Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine within each 50 cm by 50 cm quadrat. Abundance data will be collected as the response variable to assess the density of these tree species in different environmental conditions.
2. Predictor Variables:
   • Soil Nutrient Levels: Measured as the concentration of nutrients in the soil, influencing plant growth.
   • Erosion Levels: Categorized as low, medium, or high based on visual inspection, indicating the degree of soil disturbance.
   • Sunlight Exposure: Qualitatively assessed to determine the amount of sunlight reaching the quadrat.
   • Water Availability: Qualitatively assessed to determine the availability of water in the environment.
   • Soil Texture: Classified based on the composition of soil particles, influencing water retention and drainage.
   • pH of the Soil: Measured as an indicator of soil acidity or alkalinity, affecting nutrient availability.