My initial data collection was after the transect sampling strategy. I marked out my transects and separated the transects into 9 quadrants. In each quadrant I marked the presence of flora. As the examples have previously shown, one is to count the amount of each flora within each transect, but for the purpose of my research, I was merely interested if there is a correlation between the flora that grows further away from the dyke water and the consistency of the soil.
Some difficult aspects I observed throughout my collection was the difficulty in discerning the different types of Poaceae (Grasses). Many seemed quite similar and as the grass within my area was cut short, it was difficult to make out each feature appropriately. I also observed plenty of dried, brown and dead grasses. In my notes, I make note of the dead grass, but unfortunately am not able to tell what type of grass it is. When I return later for more samples, I will attempt to see if there is new growth. Another observation I made was that when one looks closer, the grass has other flora mixed as well. I observed Taraxacum officinale (common dandelion) and Brachythecium frigidum (golden short-capsuled moss).
I believe I will continue with the transect method. It allows me to properly lay out an organized method of measuring instead of randomly sampling. I believe it suits my research study appropriately.
