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ARS Home » Plains Area » Las Cruces, New Mexico » Range Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #208973
Title: Adapting the rangeland database for managing ecological site description data

Author
item MECCAGE, RYAN - SYNERGY RESOURCE SOLUTION
item ALEXANDER, JACK - SYNERGY RESOURCE SOLUTION
item COURTRIGHT, ERICHA - NEW MEXICO STATE UNIV
item Herrick, Jeffrey - Jeff
item Bestelmeyer, Brandon
item KLUCK, JULIANE - SYNERGY RESOURCE SOLUTION

Submitted to: Society for Range Management Meeting Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/1/2007
Publication Date: 2/9/2007
Citation: Meccage, R., Alexander, J., Courtright, E., Herrick, J.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Kluck, J. 2007. Adapting the rangeland database for managing ecological site description data [abstract]. Society for Range Management, 60th Annual Meeting and Trade Show, February 9-16, 2007, Reno/Sparks, Nevada. Paper No. 286. 2007 CDROM.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Field data collection for writing Ecological Data Descriptions (ESD) creates a paperwork burden that reduces efficiency of ESD preparation. The recently developed Rangeland Database and Field Data Entry System is well suited to managing ESD data. This database was developed to automate data entry and analysis for protocols in – Monitoring Manual for Grassland, Shrubland, and Savanna Ecosystems. After collecting 2005 data on paper and entering into Ecological Site Information System, Synergy Resource Solutions, Inc., looked for a more efficient solution to data management. Scientists at Jornada Experimental Range released the Rangeland Database before the 2006 field season. Synergy used the new database to collect and analyze ESD (and other data) Collaboration between field personnel and database developers resulted in several adaptations to increase utility of the database for ESD purposes. Field application has shown that the database saves data entry time without sacrificing in-the-field efficiency, reduces data entry errors, provides for real time analysis, provokes real time field discussion of ecological theory, and reduces the time lag (and motivational challenge) associated with data entry months after fieldwork is complete. The ease of use and adaptation of the Rangeland Database allow for project-specific customization. Adaptation of project tracking and progress reporting increased efficiency of our current project.