Blog Post 6: Data Collection
For my field data collection, I began by marking off the areas beside the creek that I would measure. I measured that the creek was approximately 60 meters long and marked off the bottom (0 m) and top (60 m) of the creek. I then divided this into four categories (0-1 m, 1-2 m, 2-3 m, and 3-4 m from the creek) to place my quadrats. Using a Google random number generator, I randomly selected 5 quadrats within each category, ensuring no overlap. In cases where they overlapped, I re-selected a new random number.
Using the skills that I learned in my initial data collection, I was careful to place the quadrats accurately along the areas with uneven terrain. Overall, the data collection went smoothly, but I did collect the data on a day with heavy rainfall. I noticed that the creek’s borders had shifted slightly wider compared to previous sunny or overcast days. This change in creek width could be a source of error in my data and is something to keep in mind.
In terms of ancillary patterns, the variation in creek width due to weather conditions has made me reconsider how consistent environmental factors are and how they might impact my results. This could affect my interpretation of how distance from the creek influences plant abundance, and I may need to factor in weather variations in future observations.
I am still curious why you are only going 4 m away from the creek and you aren’t going further and now that you mention variable water levels, it makes me wonder about whether you should have gone beyond 4 m. Is there a drastic change at 4 m?