Forest Inventory Growth Project

Amy Hunter's and Elayna Girardin's Environmental Science classes established permanent FIG (forest inventory growth) plots in the L.L.Bean forest off of Desert Road.  The data collected from these sites will be used by the L.L.Bean forester, Steve Gettle, to estimate the health and the value of a large plot of forested land.  This service learning project was possible with the partnership of L.L.Bean, forester,Steve Gettle, Maine State forester, Shane Duigan, Project Learning Tree Coordinator, Pat Maloney.  Prior to the field work, they came and met with the students to educate students about LL Bean's property, forestry practices, and Project Learning Tree. 

The two permanent FIG plots were marked and recorded by GPS.  Students marked and identified tress and also measured diameter and height.  Students also recorded health of trees based on a forester's standard of measure.  The data is (will be entered) in a database that is available to the public.  Future Environmental Science classes will visit these permanent  FIG plots and take data each fall and spring allowing for a long term record and comparative analysis of the health of the L.L.Bean forest.  Link to student reflections.