Planet Earth Project: Introduction

Reminder: This must be written in third person and in complete sentences. All measurements must be in the appropriate metric units.

Purpose and design of study

This details what organism is being studied and what question will be answered by the study. This question should deal with how some aspect of the physical environment might affect the population of the organism . This should also include a clear explanation of how the method and placement of data collection will help answer the question (Be sure to include the percentage of the total study area that will be sampled during the study).

Site Description This should include the following for the study area:

Location
The location should be referenced to its general location in Austin (i.e., southwest Austin, north Austin), well-known landmarks and streets. Be sure to include metric distances and compass directions.

Size and Shape
The area should be expressed in hectares (1 hectare = 2.47 acres). The shape should be referenced to a well-known geometric shape that helps indicate the amount of edge for the area. Topography
This should include both the maximum and minimum elevations in meters. It should also include a general description of the topography (i.e., flat, hilly).

Geology
This should include the names of the underlying geologic formations, a description of the rock types and the geologic time periods when they were formed. It should also include any interesting geologic features (i.e., faults, volcanoes).

Areal Extent and General Type of Vegetation
These are the percentages of the general vegetation types found in the study area (i.e., 50% grassland and 50% woodland).

Availability of Water
This includes the name and type of water sources that supply the study area (i.e.,Walnut Creek, Town Lake). Be sure to indicate the level of flow of streams and levels of lake or ponds. Also include any evidence of flooding.

Proximity to Urban or Industrial Areas
Include metric distances and compass directions to these areas (i.e., neighborhoods, factories)

History
This is the land use history of the study area. Be as detailed as possible. As a minimum, the date the area was set aside for preservation should be included.