Development data of the bottom vegetation of the Haarasenmäki observation site, 2017-2024

This data shows the development of the bottom vegetation of the Haarasenmäki observation site between 2017–2024. The data was collected by creating monitored vegetation plots on different substrates in the area. The plots were intended to be photographed annually, but some years were missed due to the pandemic. The plots were photographed, and the vegetation was mapped during field visits, and the data obtained from these visits was used to create plant charts.

The mapping recorded the plant species, their quantity, and quality. From the data, changes, coverage percentage, and occurrence could be calculated. Calculations and plant identification was done manually. Vegetation plots were used as an aid, which could be divided into smaller parts from the images. Long-term monitoring allowed for the observation of vegetation changes. Photographs and measurements were taken during the growing season at the same time as much as possible. In this case June-July.

The markings of the vegetation plots lasted for years in the field, allowing the same area to be photographed consistently. The locations were marked on a map, and the photographs were always taken directly above the plot. The time between photographing the vegetation plots was a maximum of 3 weeks.