Woodlot Dataset 3: Field Training of Adult Trees

Meta data: Replicates: A total of 20 adult trees were randomly selected in the Saywell woodlot. The adult trees were chosen based on them being double the researcher’s height (5 ft 4 in). Distance between tree pair: This continuous variable was used to measure the distance between two adult tree pairs using a transect measuring tape (cm). Diameter at breast height: This continuous variable was used to calculate the diameter at breast height of each tree trunk by using a measuring tape (cm). Condition: This ordinal variable was used to examine the condition of each tree based on a scale from 0-2. 0= dead 1=living 2= huge green canopy. Description: On September 19^th, 2016 a study was conducted at the Saywell woodlot located at York University with researcher, Moses. The study was performed from 3:00 to 4:45 pm on a sunny day with a temperature of 25 <b>°</b>C. However, the woodlot contained multiple large trees with wide canopies that limited the amount of sunlight that entered the area. The data for the study was collected by randomly selecting 20 adult trees. Each adult tree was twice the height of the researcher (5 ft 4 in). The distance between each tree pair was measured using a transect measuring tape in centimeters. The diameter at breast height of each tree trunk was also measured with a measuring tape in centimeters. Each tree was then evaluated on its condition using a 0-2 number scale. The number 0 represented a dead tree, number 2 meant the tree was living whereas, 3 indicated the tree contained a large green canopy. Hypothesis/Prediction: The larger the diameter at breast height (dbh) of a tree, the more likely it is classified as containing a huge green canopy. A larger dbh indicates that the tree is stronger and is able to store more food reserves such as nutrients compared to trees with lower dbh. The more food it obtains, the greater the growth of branches and healthy green leaves. It was predicted that the hypothesis is true due to the fact that trees with low dbh, will have less space to store food that is essential for their growth.