My research project pivoted from the initially planned study of bird populations, because of sparse bird populations in my yard. Instead, my focus sharpens on the aftermath of the McDougal Creek Wildfire in Rose Valley Regional Park, honing in on the interplay between coniferous tree stands densities and wildfires. My project is an investigation into the correlation among tree volume, stem density, and wildfire damage. My hypothesis, centering on heightened fire behavior with increased conifer stand density. These include understanding fuel continuity provided by conifer stands, grasping the broader impact of wildfires on ecosystems, and contributing insights into the resilience of coniferous stands. My research project aims to unravel the intricacies of these relationships and provide valuable perspectives on forest ecosystem dynamics in the face of wildfires.
My research design adopts a systematic approach within a 10-hectare area affected by the McDougal Creek Wildfire. By meticulously measuring conifer stand density, tree volume, and wildfire damage severity, my study seeks to find statistically significant findings. Employing regression analysis, I delve into the intricate relationships between these variables, elucidating the extent to which changes in conifer stand density and tree volume correlate with variations in wildfire damage severity. The sample unit, comprising 100m x 100m plots systematically distributed across a 10ha area, ensures unbiased data collection. Twenty independent replicates, chosen at regular intervals, enhance the reliability of my analysis.
.
Your hypothesis is not quite worded right, I think it is in there, have a look at the tutorial in Moodle before submitting your small assignment if you haven’t already.
100 m plots are quite large, perhaps you meant 10 m? It is better to have more smaller plots. For trees, standard plot size is 10 m diameter. This should be big enough to measure conifer density. Make sure to include details on how you are measuring wildfire severity!