NRI On-site Data Collection

The 1982 NRI was the last inventory for which on-site data was collected nationwide for every sample segment and all segment points. To meet a variety of expanding information needs and address NRI program quality assurance standards, the Annual NRI process will incorporate annual on-site data collections covering selected NRI rural land categories.

Rangeland

A special Rangeland NRI Field Study, requiring on-site data collection on 650 segments, was initiated in 2003 in selected western states. The NRI rangeland sampling protocols include vegetation production, cover, height, invasive and noxious weed encroachment, rangeland health attributes, disturbances and conservation needs. It is anticipated that this study will collect on-site data for over 1,300 segments in 17 states in 2007.

Pastureland

Pastureland ecology is significantly different from rangeland and was not included in the Rangeland NRI Field Study. NRCS grazing land specialists have developed a draft set of field sampling protocols for use in a Pastureland NRI Field Study. A pilot study, utilizing the draft pastureland protocols, is underway and scheduled for completion in November, 2007. Five states were selected to participate in the pilot: Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri and Pennsylvania. Each state will collect data for ten segments/points. Data collection protocols cover plant productivity, cover and composition; invasive and noxious weeds; hydrology and erosion; pastureland condition; conservation practices and needs; disturbance indicators; soil fertility and nutrients.

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