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Given the relatively small size of the Camp Adair training area, a systematic sampling design was chosen consisting of a uniform distribution of sample points over the entire area. These sample points were spaced 250m apart in a grid oriented toward magnetic north (Plate 1). This spacing corresponds to the minimum distance between avian point counts recommended by Ralph et al. (1995). The grid system resulted in 41 intersection points on Camp Adair which were used throughout the study for avian point counts, habitat measurements, and as reference points for incidental observations and opportunistic small mammal sampling.
In early April 1998, we began locating and marking the intersection points. A starting point was chosen and marked on an aerial photograph of the site, and grid lines drawn. In the field, a two-person team used a measuring tape and a compass to walk a magnetic course for a distance of 250m from the chosen starting point. At the end point, the aerial photograph was checked to verify that the location was correct by referencing recognizable landmarks such as fence lines, road intersections, and prominent tree stands. (The topography of the area rises to the west, and using a two dimensional approach resulted in some degree of distortion of actual ground distance between points, but we always maintained a minimum ground distance of 250m.) A wood stake with a plastic identification tag was placed at each intersection point. The tag contained the point’s (x, y) coordinates with the (1, 1) point occurring in the southwest corner of the grid. A non-differentially corrected GPS fix was obtained for each point (Appendix A) and written on the identification tag. Subsequent checks with an independent differentially corrected receiver showed that the accuracy of the original receiver was acceptable within 0.05 minutes latitude/longitude.
Amphibians and Reptiles
Inventory sites were selected to encompass the range and general proportion of aquatic and terrestrial environments found on the base. Camp Adair is characterized by predominantly terrestrial environments and few permanent/temporary aquatic environments. We employed a variety of field-tested survey protocols to sample the herpetofauna.
Terrestrial Surveys
One-hour Time Constrained Searches (TCS) were conducted to inventory terrestrial amphibians and reptiles at 11 sites (Corn and Bury, 1990). Surveys consisted of scanning areas and hand-searching habitat objects (coarse woody debris, moss patches, talus, boulders, etc.) that might provide suitable habitat for herpetofauna. Objects were turned over and replaced immediately. Captured individuals were identified, measured, weighed, and released at point of capture. All information was recorded on data forms. Specific site location information was obtained by mapping the general area searched on a 7.5 minute USGS topographic map, then obtaining a UTM reference point at the centroid of the polygon.
Aquatic Surveys
Visual Encounter Searches (VES) were employed to inventory aquatic amphibians (Bury and Major, 1997). Surveys consisted of carefully searching the perimeter of aquatic sites (ponds, marshes) and dip-netting animals observed in the shallows (up to 1 m deep). For aquatic sites less than 1 m deep, the VES search was conducted by wading through the site in an "S"-shaped pattern. Captured animals were identified, measured, retained until the end of the survey, and released. All information was recorded on data forms.
50%
2 meters
incorrect use of the data described and/or contained herein.