A Comparison of the Line-Interception and Quadrat Estimation Methods of Determining Shrub Canopy Coverage

The line-interception and Daubenmire's 0.1 m2 quadrat estimation methods of determining canopy coverage were compared for four densities of big sagebrush in northwestern Nevada. Results indicated that the methods provide comparable estimates. The line-interception method is preferable to 0.1 m2 quadrats where high levels of precision and confidence are required, but the 0.1 m2 quadrat method may be preferable where lower levels of precision and confidence are acceptable. Fewer man-minutes of time are required by either method for one person working alone than for two people working together.