Conducting a complete inventory using paper forms or other non-i-Tree application
UFORE specific field data collection forms have been developed and are available for use (see Manual). Field data collected on paper can be entered into UFORE via a data input application developed for the program (contact support).
Critical aspects of field data collection
Field data collected for complete inventories provides the necessary information to calculate structure and estimate function of the urban forest. Critical aspects of field data collection include:
Following the protocol
Because the accuracy of the results of a UFORE project depend upon quality data inputs, accurate field data collection is essential. Detailed criteria for each datum can be found in the Manual. The data collection crew will require careful training and oversight to ensure accurate data collection.
Quality control
To obtain the most reliable and accurate results from a UFORE project, it is recommended that a quality control system be used. Such a system normally examines two different areas:
Field measurements - Checks on field data collection are made by re-inventorying a sample of trees after the data have been collected. Quality control should be conducted throughout any inventory, but is particularly important at the start of a project to ensure that all data collection personnel are trained and using consistent and accurate data collection methods (see Manual).
Data integrity and coherency - Quality control is also useful after field data have been uploaded or entered into a personal computer. Data checks can find errors such as numbers that are out of range (e.g. stem diameters greater than normally encountered for a species), missing variables, or inappropriate measures (e.g., crown width = 0 for live trees).
