Grassland environment measurements of Solidago canadensis

This study was conducted to measure Solidago canadensis (goldenrod) plant abundance, crowding, and height, as well as flower and leaf abundance on randomly selected branches of individuals. A belt transect method with a one metre spread (50 centimetres on each side of the transect) was used to select individuals to study, with individuals falling within the belt along the line being chosen to be recorded. An area to begin the transect was randomly selected by taking 50 steps down a trail in the grassland, and taking another 10 steps to the right of the path. The transect was then stretched out in a straight line. Branches to study were selected by closing eyes and picking a branch on the plant. This data set was collected on September 21, 2015 between 2:45 and 3:30 pm ET. The temperature was 19 degrees celsius with scattered clouds.