Simple Aid to Stringing Permanent Plots

Robert O. Curtis, USFS PNW Research Station

Square or rectangular permanent fixed area plots are widely used in research. When establishing such plots, it is often convenient to delineate the borders with string. String is also useful for delineating subplots or strips within the plot to insure that no trees are missed, to provide for uniform application of treatments such as fertilization, and to provide a systematic arrangement of tree tag numbers. We use white string, which is readily visible and is available in 5 lb cones that are about 8½ inches high and have a conical hollow cardboard core. In use, the cone can be carried in the hand. However, it is often necessary to put the cone down when free hands are needed for writing, climbing over obstacles etc., and the cone has an inconvenient way of rolling downhill or becoming entangled in brush. If the cone is mounted on a staff, the staff can be struck into the ground when free hands are needed, and entanglements avoided. The staff also facilitates passing the string around obstacles, and is sometimes helpful for balance on uncertain footing.

An inexpensive staff for this purpose can be made from a replacement hoe handle, available in hardware stores for around $7. These come with a metal ferrule already on them. Screw a large lag screw into the ferrule end and cut off the head, leaving 1¾ inches or so exposed, and round off the edges on a grinder. Drill a 3/8 inch hole through the staff about 9½ inches below the top, and insert and glue in place a 5 inch length of 3/8 inch dowel. The dowel prevents the cone from sliding down the staff if the cardboard center of the cone is oversize or becomes expanded in use.

In use, one grasps the staff below the cross piece with one hand while guiding the string with the other as it unwinds.