Abstract:
Abbott Creek Natural Area is a 2600 acre research area of the
Mixed-Conifer forest type. This study delineated plant association
units within the area, and demonstrates the use of the computer program
SIMORD as a tool in the definition of such associations. One
hundred fourteen sites were sampled by a reconnaissance plot technique
and were used, by SIMORD, in the construction of a two-dimensional
ordination. On this ordination high, moderate, moist, dry,
and Arctostaphylos/Ceanothus plant associations were defined. For
each association, tables were constructed of the overstory, shrub
and understory vegetation. Where it was meaningful, associations
were compared to topographic features of the area, and to similar
associations elsewhere.
