-

To determine a suitable method, based on precision and cost, of inventory in Western oak forests, a
random-systematic sampling with circle shape (already used, in the region) as well as transect method
(recommended method in these kinds of forests) were selected for comparison. Parameters evaluated
were number per hectare, crown cover and basal area (suitable parameters for these forest types).
Considering all the sampling factors, a grid of 1 OOx 100 m and plot areas of 2000m2 were
determinded for random-systematic sampling. Length of transect was determined as 50m in transect method.
To compare the results of these two sampling methods with the real population statistical
parameters, a 100% inventory was taken over a 37 .03-hectare area while using both methods over the
same area.
The results show that the population mean was similar to those of samplings for all parameters, the
means being within the range of confidence intervals. However in both sampling methods and in all
cases, the inventory errors were greater than those at the acceptalbe level (10%).
To compare the related costs, the total man-hour employed in each method was evaluated. Total
time used in transect method was 714 minutes and in random-systematic method it was 3027.5 minutes.
With respect to precision, random-systematic sampling with circle shape plots is of less error than
transect method in all cases.
To precisely evaluate the two methods, the product of E2 (Square of sampling error) times T(total
inventory time) was used. This ceofficienct was less in transect method than in randome-systematic
sampling with circle shape plots in all cases.