Vegetation Types in Coastal Louisiana in 2007

Open-File Report 2008-1224
Prepared in cooperation with the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
By: , and 

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Abstract

During the summer and fall of 2007, the U.S. Geological Survey, the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Fur and Refuge Division jointly completed an aerial survey to collect data on 2007 vegetation types in coastal Louisiana. The current map presents the data collected in this effort. The 2007 aerial survey was conducted by using techniques developed over the last thirty years while conducting similar vegetation surveys. Transects flown were oriented in a north-south direction and spaced 1.87 mi (3 km) apart and covered coastal marshes from the Texas State line to the Mississippi State line and from the northern extent of fresh marshes to the southern end of saline (saltwater) marshes on the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico or of coastal bays. Navigation along these transects and to each sampling site was accomplished by using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology and geographic information system (GIS) software. As the surveyors reached each sampling station, observed areas of marsh were assigned as fresh, intermediate, brackish, or saline (saltwater) types, and dominant plant species were listed and ranked according to abundance. Delineations of marsh boundaries usually followed natural levees, bayous, or other features that impede or restrict water flow.

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Vegetation Types in Coastal Louisiana in 2007
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2008-1224
DOI 10.3133/ofr20081224
Edition Version 1.0
Year Published 2008
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) U.S. Geological Survey
Description Map Sheet: 41 x 29 inches
Time Range Start 2007-01-01
Time Range End 2007-12-31
Country United States
State Louisiana
Scale 550000
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details