Working on locating and mapping Juniperus in the Sagehen watershed. To see all observations, be sure to select "view all" under the map. Unfortunately, viewing all eliminates the "Searched Area" overlay.

Juniper Project Search Method

I have defined a "Place", Sagehen Juniper Project Searched Area, and I update the boundaries as the "searched area" changes. The yellow shading shows this area. Unfortunately, I have not found a way to view all observations in the project and still view the shading showing the area searched.

I am using features on the ground and on the map as search area boundaries. With topo maps and GPS, I use roads, drainages, rock outcrops, contour lines, and section or other boundary lines to define manageable search areas. Then I walk a route that allows me to search all areas thoroughly. In dense vegetation, walking (stumbling) passes might be only 5 meters apart. In more open vegetation with good visibility, search routes might be up to 50 meters apart. Heavy clothing and a tough hat are essential in the super dense brush and dog-hair trees to prevent extensive blood-letting. The track function on the GPS allows me to see my search pattern and assures I do not skip any area. I know there are small trees I will miss, but I am trying to come to as close to 100% as possible. Occasionally I will re-walk an area if I think I missed a section or if I my attention wandered and I have doubts I was adequately thorough.
The sequence of what areas I search is largely arbitrary. I began where I knew there were some Junipers. If I have only a couple hours, I search areas that have easier access, with more time I push further into the basin. Currently, the north side of the basin and the lower section west of highway 89 are my focus. less ↑