Ecosystem Site Description

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeGeography• Total geographic extent of chosen forest type • Macro-topography • Description of geographic coordinates, map, or general location of specific watershed

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeClimate• Macroclimate o Temp (range and averages) o Precip (range, averages, type/form, and seasonality) o Humidity • Local variation in microclimate within the watershed

10.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeAutotrophs• Herbaceous vegetation accurately described • Shrubs accurately described • Trees accurately described • Scientific names used at least first time species is mentioned • Spatial variability in species comp, structure, or cover across the watershed

10.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeGeology and Soils• Parent material described • Soil taxa described • Soil depth, texture, productivity and variability of characteristics included • Spatial variability across the watershed

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeDisturbances• Major disturbances impacting this forest type including type, relative size, and impact • Likely disturbance regimes accurately described within context of watershed

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeTopography/Physiographic setting• Range of elevation, slope, and aspect • Relates elevation, slope, aspect to soil and vegetation characteristics/variability • Discusses landscape patterns with respect to above components • Variability in topography within your watershed

10.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHeterotrophs• Major heterotrophs of system included, accurately described • Heterotrophs described within context of other watershed characteristics • Important roles of heterotrophs • Critical habitat features

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeInteractions Among Biotic and Abiotic Components• How do climate, soils, disturbance, topography, vegetation, and/or heterotrophs interact to shape the plant communities described in the report? • Are there interactions among climate, soils, disturbance, topography, and vegetation that shape the abiotic components of this system? • How do these interactions contribute to the spatial variability described for the biotic and abiotic components of the system? • You should have at least three good examples of interactions that drive spatial patterns in their watershed/landscape to get full credit on this component of the grade.

20.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeFormatting• Citations present and correctly formatted • Credible sources used • Within page limits • Tables and figures used when appropriate • Tables and figures title and captioned appropriately

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWriting Style• Professionally/scientifically written • Correct grammar and spelling • Well organized with clear transitions and flow (can be formatted in distinct sections)

5.0 pts

Total Points: 80.0