Between 1915 and 1932, more than 100 1 m2 quadrats were established
across the Jornada Experimental Range to document vegetation dynamics
in the dominant grass species over time. Locations of annual grasses,
forbs, and subshrubs were charted (this package) and basal area of
perennial grasses and area of shrubs were charted (packages
210351001). In several cases, grasses were also measured as a point
and are found in the density data, particularly if they could not be
identified to species.Thirty-four quadrats were established in 1915, 8
in 1916, 14 in 1919, 3 in 1921, 2 in 1924, 17 in 1926, 21 in 1927, 2
in 1929, 1 in 1931, and 2 in 1932. Data was recorded as chart quadrat
maps, in which the locations and shapes of all living plants located
within the quadrat were mapped onto the data sheet. From 1915-1924
mapping was done by dividing the quadrat frame into a decimeter grid
using straps and reproducing locations of plants on grid paper. From
1925-2016 mapping was done using a pantograph, a device which allows
for more accurate mapping of size and location of plants (Hill, 1920).
Data collection currently occurs in 5 years intervals (1995, 2001,
2006, etc) and during the fall or winter. In the past, data collection
was highly variable.