gov.noaa.nodc:0306500 eng utf8 dataset NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information ncei.info@noaa.gov https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/contact HTTPS NOAA Contact Information Information for contacts at NCEI. information custodian 2026-06-03T13:24:26Z ISO 19115-2 Geographic Information - Metadata - Part 2: Extensions for Imagery and Gridded Data ISO 19115-2:2009(E) NCCOS Assessment: Long-term monitoring of Living Shoreline Sill, Vegetation, and SET data in Pine Knoll Shores, NC, 2004-10-22 to 2025-04-23 (NCEI Accession 0306500) 2025-07-29 publication 2025-07-23 creation International DOI Foundation (IDF) 10.25921/jhmg-5s64 NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information gov.noaa.nodc:0306500 NCEI Archive Management System 0306500 NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information ncei.info@noaa.gov https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/contact HTTPS NCEI Contact Information Information for contacts at NCEI. information publisher Alyssa LeClaire NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) alyssa.leclaire@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information resourceProvider NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information resourceProvider jenny davis NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) jenny.davis@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information principalInvestigator Brandon Puckett NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) brandon.puckett@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information principalInvestigator Davis, Jenny NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Currin, Carolyn NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Puckett, Brandon NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) brandon.puckett@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Greene, Michael NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Walker, Quentin A. NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) quentin.walker@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author LeClaire, Alyssa NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) alyssa.leclaire@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Giannelli, Ryan NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) ryan.giannelli@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Alyssa LeClaire NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) alyssa.leclaire@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information collaborator Quentin A. Walker NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) quentin.walker@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information collaborator jenny davis NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) jenny.davis@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information pointOfContact NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) NCCOS Data Manager nccos.data@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information pointOfContact NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information contributor tableDigital This dataset contains long-term monitoring data collected at the Pine Knoll Shores Sill as part of a larger effort to monitor local fringing marshes in Carteret County. The monitoring data is stored in four .csv files, one .tif file, one .aux file, and two pdfs. The .csv files contain vegetative community and SET data. The .tif file consists of an ortho mosaic image, captured using a Mavic 3M drone, in 2025. The .aux file and SiteReport.pdf are files associated with the ortho mosaic. The routine vegetation surveys were conducted starting in 2008 to monitor change in the vegetative community composition and total cover at fixed plots. Prior to the vegetation surveys, four surface elevation tables (SETs) were installed in 2004 and elevation changes over time were tracked with millimeter scale resolution. More information on this site can be found here: https://arcg.is/1PufHu3 These data were collected to monitor the vegetative community and elevation change of a living shoreline in comparison to a natural reference marsh. This dataset was the product of a partnership among the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, and the North Carolina Aquarium Pine Knoll Shores. Funding Agency: NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Funding Agency: NOAA Office of Habitat Conservation (NMFS/OHC) NCCOS Partner: North Carolina Aquarium Pine Knoll Shores NCCOS Partner: NOAA Office of Habitat Conservation Restoration Center completed historicalArchive NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information ncei.info@noaa.gov https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/contact HTTPS NCEI Contact Information Information for contacts at NCEI. information pointOfContact asNeeded https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/metadata/landing-page/bin/gfx?id=gov.noaa.nodc:0306500 Preview graphic PNG 0306500 NCEI ACCESSION NUMBER 2025-07-09 publication biological data DEBRIS MACROALGAE SEA GRASSES - DENSITY SPECIES IDENTIFICATION Terrain Elevation Vegetation Cover theme NODC DATA TYPES THESAURUS camera GPS instrument NODC INSTRUMENT TYPES THESAURUS in situ survey survey - biological theme NODC OBSERVATION TYPES THESAURUS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science dataCentre NODC COLLECTING INSTITUTION NAMES THESAURUS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science dataCentre NODC SUBMITTING INSTITUTION NAMES THESAURUS North Atlantic Ocean place NODC SEA AREA NAMES THESAURUS oceanography theme WMO_CategoryCode 2012-09-15 publication DOC/NOAA/NOS/NCCOS > National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, National Ocean Service, NOAA, U.S. Department of Commerce dataCentre Global Change Master Directory (GCMD) Data Center Keywords 2026 revision 24 Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Greenbelt MD https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD%2BKeywords HTTPS GCMD Keyword Forum Page Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2025. GCMD Keywords, Version 21. Greenbelt, MD: Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). URL (GCMD Keyword Forum Page): https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD+Keywords information custodian EARTH SCIENCE > BIOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION EARTH SCIENCE > BIOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION > PLANTS > ANGIOSPERMS (FLOWERING PLANTS) > MONOCOTS > SEAGRASS EARTH SCIENCE > BIOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION > PLANTS > MACROALGAE (SEAWEEDS) EARTH SCIENCE > BIOSPHERE > VEGETATION > VEGETATION COVER EARTH SCIENCE > LAND SURFACE > TOPOGRAPHY > TERRAIN ELEVATION theme Global Change Master Directory (GCMD) Science Keywords 2026 revision 24 Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Greenbelt MD https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD%2BKeywords HTTPS GCMD Keyword Forum Page Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2025. GCMD Keywords, Version 21. Greenbelt, MD: Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). URL (GCMD Keyword Forum Page): https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD+Keywords information custodian Field Experiment Field Observation Geospatial Long-term Monitoring theme NCCOS Research Data Type Coastal Change: Mitigation Coastal Change: Restoration Coastal Change: Vulnerability theme NCCOS Research Priority Natural infrastructure Restoration Salt marshes theme NCCOS Research Topic 2025 Orthoimagery Acri Arm Position Average Pin Length BM Arm offset (m) BM elev (m NAVD88 G12B) Bfru Bhal Code Correct to G12B Correction Cover Method Cpal Date Dspi Easting Elev Feature Geoid H1 H10 H2 H3 H4 H5 H6 H7 H8 H9 HMean Hspp Ifru Jroe Lcar Malb MarshType Mussel Northing Notes Pame Pin # Pin Height (m) Plot SET reader Salt Site Slin Spat Srob Ssem Sspp Surface elevation (m NAVD 88 G12B) Transect Treatment Vlut deadStem_m2 deadStem_per_area liveStem_m2 liveStem_per_area other oyster oyster_cultch oyster_live rock snail_area snails_m2 snails_per_area stem_Area upland wrack theme Provider Keywords Living shoreline theme Provider Themes CAMERA > CAMERA GPS RECEIVERS > GPS RECEIVERS QUADRATS > QUADRATS instrument Global Change Master Directory (GCMD) Instrument Keywords 2026 revision 24 Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Greenbelt MD https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD%2BKeywords HTTPS GCMD Keyword Forum Page Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2025. GCMD Keywords, Version 21. Greenbelt, MD: Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). URL (GCMD Keyword Forum Page): https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD+Keywords information custodian Digital level Laser level Measuring tape Meter stick Optical level RTK Surface Elevation Table (SET) Trimble GPS instrument Provider Instruments UAV > Unmanned Aerial Vehicle platform Global Change Master Directory (GCMD) Platform Keywords 2026 revision 24 Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Greenbelt MD https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD%2BKeywords HTTPS GCMD Keyword Forum Page Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2025. GCMD Keywords, Version 21. Greenbelt, MD: Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). URL (GCMD Keyword Forum Page): https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD+Keywords information custodian DJI Mavic 3M platform Provider Platform Names OCEAN > ATLANTIC OCEAN > NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN place Global Change Master Directory (GCMD) Location Keywords 2026 revision 24 Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Greenbelt MD https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD%2BKeywords HTTPS GCMD Keyword Forum Page Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2025. GCMD Keywords, Version 21. Greenbelt, MD: Earth Science Data and Information System, Earth Science Projects Division, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). URL (GCMD Keyword Forum Page): https://forum.earthdata.nasa.gov/app.php/tag/GCMD+Keywords information custodian Region > Atlantic Ocean U.S. States and Territories > North Carolina, Carteret County, Pine Knoll Shores place NCCOS Research Location Bogue Sound Carteret County Pine Knoll Shores place Provider Place Names L1PEHE Send2NCEI Submission Package ID accessLevel: public otherRestrictions Cite as: Davis, Jenny; Currin, Carolyn; Puckett, Brandon; Greene, Michael; Walker, Quentin A.; LeClaire, Alyssa; Giannelli, Ryan (2025). NCCOS Assessment: Long-term monitoring of Living Shoreline Sill, Vegetation, and SET data in Pine Knoll Shores, NC, 2004-10-22 to 2025-04-23 (NCEI Accession 0306500). [indicate subset used]. NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. Dataset. https://doi.org/10.25921/jhmg-5s64. Accessed [date]. Distribution liability: NOAA and NCEI make no warranty, expressed or implied, regarding these data, nor does the fact of distribution constitute such a warranty. NOAA and NCEI cannot assume liability for any damages caused by any errors or omissions in these data. If appropriate, NCEI can only certify that the data it distributes are an authentic copy of the records that were accepted for inclusion in the NCEI archives. otherRestrictions Use liability: NOAA and NCEI cannot provide any warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of furnished data. Users assume responsibility to determine the usability of these data. The user is responsible for the results of any application of this data for other than its intended purpose. license This dataset has been dedicated to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) Public Domain Dedication. SPDX License: Creative Commons Zero v1.0 Universal (CC0-1.0) Braun-Blanquet, J. (1932). Plant sociology. The study of plant communities. 1932 publication First Edition Braun-Blanquet, J. International Station of Mediterranean and Alpine Geobotany Director author McGraw-Hill, New York publisher documentHardcopy crossReference sciencePaper Peet, R. K., Palmquist, K. A., Wentworth, T. R., Schafale, M. P., Weakley, A. S., & Lee, M. T. (2018). Carolina Vegetation Survey: an initiative to improve regional implementation of the U.S. National Vegetation Classification. Phytocoenologia, 48(2), 171–179. https://doi.org/10.1127/phyto/2017/0168 2018-05-01 publication International DOI Foundation (IDF) https://doi.org/10.1127/phyto/2017/0168 https://doi.org/10.1127/phyto/2017/0168 HTTPS https://doi.org/10.1127/phyto/2017/0168 Journal Article information Peet, Robert K. author Palmquist, Kyle A. author Wentworth, Thomas R. author Schafale, Michael P. author Weakley, Alan S. author Lee, Michael T. author Schweizerbart publisher documentDigital phyto 48(2) ISSN 0340-269X, pp. 171-179 crossReference sciencePaper Kenworthy, W. J., Durako, M. J., Fatemy, S. M. R., Valavi, H., & Thayer, G. W. (1993). Ecology of seagrasses in northeastern Saudi Arabia one year after the Gulf War oil spill. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 27, 213–222. https://doi.org/10.1016/0025-326x(93)90027-h 1993-01 publication International DOI Foundation (IDF) https://doi.org/10.1016/0025-326x(93)90027-h https://doi.org/10.1016/0025-326x(93)90027-h HTTPS https://doi.org/10.1016/0025-326x(93)90027-h Journal Article information Kenworthy, W.J. author Durako, M.J. author Fatemy, S.M.R. author Valavi, H. author Thayer, G.W. author Elsevier publisher documentDigital Marine Pollution Bulletin 27 ISSN 0025-326X, pp. 213-222 crossReference sciencePaper NCCOS Project: Empirical evidence for the performance of Natural Infrastructure, https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/dd0f23ba5a9a430598530aa261358641 2025 publication https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/dd0f23ba5a9a430598530aa261358641 HTTPS https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/dd0f23ba5a9a430598530aa261358641 NCCOS Project Page (interactive) information Davis, Jenny NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Bost, Molly NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author LeClaire, Alyssa NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Giannelli, Ryan NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author Walker, Quentin NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information author jenny davis NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) jenny.davis@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information pointOfContact Alyssa LeClaire NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) alyssa.leclaire@noaa.gov https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information pointOfContact NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ HTTPS NOAA National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) website Institution web page information publisher multimediaDigital crossReference project NOAA Restoration Atlas, https://www.habitat.noaa.gov/apps/restoration-atlas/ 2024 publication https://www.habitat.noaa.gov/apps/restoration-atlas/ HTTPS https://www.habitat.noaa.gov/apps/restoration-atlas/ NOAA Restoration Atlas search NOAA Office of Habitat Conservation (NMFS/OHC) restoration.atlas@noaa.gov https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/office-habitat-conservation HTTPS NOAA Office of Habitat Conservation (NMFS/OHC) website Institution web page information publisher tableDigital crossReference collection eng; USA utf8 environment oceans biota -76.833256 -76.831519 34.69979 34.701439 2004-10-22 2025-04-23 Methods: Vegetation Surveys: Transects run perpendicular to shoreline. Locate PVC/rebar posts marking the beginning and end of transects. The beginning of the transect is the lower edge of marsh vegetation (closer to the shoreline). The end of the transect is the uppermost extent of accessible marsh vegetation (away from the shoreline). Check lower and upper PVC/rebar markers with GPS coordinates if available. If PVC/rebar is not present at either location, install the lower marker at the lower edge of S. alterniflora and the upper marker at the uppermost extent of accessible marsh vegetation. Attach the end of a meter tape to the lower marker and run the meter tape perpendicular to the shoreline towards the upper marker. The meter tape serves as a guide for placing the quadrat along the transect. Label datasheet with transect number and plot number. Plot numbers correspond to the distance from the start of the transect, e.g. plot 10 is 10m from the start of the transect. Begin measuring the transect with plot -1, which is one meter shoreward of the lower edge of S. alterniflora (see diagram below). This plot is labeled 1 - -1 for transect 1, plot -1. The second plot is plot 0, at the lower edge of S. alterniflora. This plot is labeled 1-0, for transect 1, plot 0. Plots should then occur every 5m unless the transect length exceeds 20m, then plots should be measured every 10m after 20m. The last plot should be the furthest accessible plot that includes S. patens or other high marsh vegetation. Place a 1 m2 quadrat at each plot to the right of the meter tape with your back to the water. For example, for plot 5, the bottom of the quadrat with your back to the water should line up at the 5m mark from the start of the transect, while the top of the quadrat should line up at the 6m mark from the start of the transect. Identify all plant species found in the quadrat. For each species, estimate the total percent cover category over the whole quadrat. In 2006 and 2007, percent cover was estimated using Braun-Blanquet (BB) categories (Braun-Blanquet & Pavillard 1922, Braun-Blanquet 1932), but starting in 2008, Carolina Vegetation Survey (CVS) categories were used for percent cover (Peet et al. 2018). In 2020, we reverted to using Braun-Blanquet classes for percent cover following Kenworthy 1993. For oyster, please differentiate between live oyster and oyster culch. For S. alterniflora only, count the number of stems found in the lower right quarter of the quadrat with your back to water. Count live and dead stems separately. For S. alterniflora only, locate plants along the string (referring to the strings that divide the quadrat into quarters) that is parallel to the transect line. Measure the height in cm (to the extent of green material) of the first 10 live stems that contact the string or lie under it. If necessary, use the string that is perpendicular to the transect line and measure stem height along that string until a total of 10 stem heights are reached. In very sparse plots you may have to measure plants well removed from the strings. Record stem heights on data sheet. Count the number of Littoraria snails per m2, or 0.25 m2 if there are more than 25 snails per 0.25 m2. Surface Elevation Tables: Reading the Surface Elevation Tables (SETs): Unscrew the gray cap on the receiver fixed in the PVC collar. Place the vertical steel rod into notch on the receiver, making sure the steel rod is inserted all the way. Screw the cap on tight to avoid any movement in the SET during readings. Place the SET arm horizontally on the vertical steel rod. Check the letters corresponding to the holes on the SET. Each letter corresponds to a direction. Check the data sheet for which letters/holes to use. Line up the white arrow painted on the SET arm with the appropriate letter on the SET base. Clamp the SET to the base using 2 clamps. Check the total thread visible between pin arm and circular disc; should be 27 mm. (This is just a location that we decided on so that our pins consistently fall in the same place.) Check that all screws are tightened. This will reduce movement during measurements. Level the receiver using the bulls-eye level on top of the flat portion of the RSET arm as your guide. Adjust arm using screw for pitch and rod arm dial (not labeled) for roll. Insert the fiberglass pins in their respective holes on pin arm. Gently lower each pin down until the bottom tip is touching the ground. DON’T PUSH HARD, THEY SHOULD NOT GO INTO THE GROUND. You should be able to see the pin hit the ground. Sometimes this is not possible. At those times, you have to rely on the feel of the resistance changing when it touches the sediment as you push down on the top of the pin. In soft sediments, you may have to very carefully feel around the pin with your finger to make sure it is on the ground. Remove detritus such as loose shells or debris (as long as moving them does not disturb the sediment surface.) Leave live shell in place as well as dead shells that are deeply imbedded in the sediment. The sediment surface may be covered with many dead stems. Leave these in place and make a note of them. Record presence of live or dead oyster and mussel shell, holes, rocks or plants on the data sheet if pins fall on them rather than directly on sediment. Basically, if the pin does not make contact with the sediment surface due to an obstacle that is not representative of the sediment, remove the obstacle if you can do so without disturbing the sediment surface. Be careful not to bend the pins when pushing them through thick grass. In thick grass, it may be helpful to pull the pin up all the way to let the grass fall out of the way so it is not pushing on the pin. Most importantly, be consistent in how you place the pins. As you place each pin, clip it just above the top of the arm, so the pin does not slip further down into the mud. Continue with all 9 pins. Double check the level once more. Sometimes when you place the pins, it can affect the level. If it has become unleveled, pull all the pins up slightly, re-level, then set the pins again. Measure the length of each pin above the pin arm (pin height). Make sure ruler is placed evenly next to each fiberglass pin and eyes are leveled with the ruler. Be careful not to put any weight on the pin arm. Record pin height on data sheet. After measuring all pins, move them up about halfway to avoid being bent when the SET is rotated. Unclamp SET, lift it, and rotate to the next direction/letter as indicated on the data set. Be very careful not to bend pins on plant stems. You may need to move aluminum board slightly to accommodate all reading directions. Repeat steps 6-12 for all necessary directions. On at least one arm direction, do a spot-check of the arm height. You should have previously determined the arm height using the laser or optical level (see steps below). But it is good to check the arm ht. once at each SET just to make sure you have placed the instrument on the receiver properly. To check the arm ht., choose an arm direction where the pin arm is close to the benchmark, so that you can place a meter stick on the benchmark and have it reach the pin arm. Record your measurement on the data sheet. This is just a check, and you might find that the arm height you measure is a few mm off from the leveled arm ht. on the data sheet. Being off by a few mm is okay as there is some error in taking the arm ht. measurement with the meter stick. If it is more than 5 mm, double-check that the SET is sitting on the receiver properly (lined up with the notch) and leveled correctly. When you are done taking readings at one SET, and if your next SET is close by, you can simply pull the pins up halfway and move the SET intact without packing it up. Just be very careful not to bend the pins or let the pins fall out. It is usually best to have someone hold the SET rather than placing it on the ground. At sites with the fiberglass grating, you can place the vertical rod in between the grating, and the SET will sit upright. If the next location requires you to get in the truck or the boat, it is best to disassemble and pack up the SET. At your final SET reading before packing up the instrument, pull the pins up halfway and clamp them. Wipe off the bottoms of the pins with a rag to avoid dragging mud and sand inside the SET. Vegetation Plot Elevation: Elevation was collected between March 2007 to July 2020, using multiple instruments including a digital level (Leica Sprinter 250cm), optical level, laser level, and RTK. Digital level: Calibrated and perform a collimation check. Set up level per manufactures recommendations. Located the level halfway between transect lines. This is often along the middle transect. DO NOT located within the transect line. When leveling vegetation plots at SET sites the uppermost SET is used for Control. This SET has the best Orthometric Height estimate. All calculations should be referenced to this mark. When shooting the SET mark take measurements on the brass disc. Next, take a shot on the VRP (top of the SET arm receiver with the cap off). Laser level: The tripod was set up in the vicinity of both the lower and upper SETs. Screw the laser level unit onto the top of the tripod. Press the power button. The power light and laser will blink while the unit is self-leveling. When the unit is ready, the power light will be on steady and the laser will be spinning. If the battery light (middle) and the anti-drift light (far right) are blinking, the unit is unable to level itself. Turn the unit off, adjust the tripod to make the unit more level, and turn the unit on again. Place the handheld laser detector on the leveling staff and turn the detector on. Place the bottom of the leveling staff on the brass benchmark imbedded in the concrete around the SET rod. Turn so the front of the laser detector is facing towards the laser level. Slide the laser detector up and down the leveling staff. When the laser detector detects the laser beam, it will beep repeatedly and arrows will flash on the display indicating whether you should move the unit up or down. When the detector is level with the laser beam, it will beep steadily and a bar will appear on the display. Read the leveling staff in between the two black plastic points on the laser detector. Record this value in meters. Optical level: After level is set up by the surveyor, the leveling rod is placed on the mark and the rod is held on each side without touching the face with the rod face turned squarely towards the optical level (OL). The rod person will make sure the rod. Twenty-five centimeters must be visible on the rod above and below the OL field of view to read rod values. The Surveyor may also indicate to the rod person the rod needs to be extended. The surveyor sights through the eyepiece and reads the value at the center crosshair and records this value, and is called the back sight. Drone imagery: A DJI Mavic 3M drone was flown at 32m altitude at a flight speed of 2 m/s covering an area of ~0.022 km2. Ground resolution for the drone imagery was calculated to be 9 mm/pixel resolution. 298 images were taken with 75% overlap and used to create an RGB ortho mosaic of the field site. 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CSV GeoTIFF PDF 1054.068 https://doi.org/10.25921/jhmg-5s64 HTTPS Web browser NCEI Dataset Landing Page Navigate directly to the URL for a descriptive web page with download links. information https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/archive/accession/oas/306500 HTTPS Web browser Descriptive Information Navigate directly to the URL for a descriptive web page with download links. information https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/archive/accession/download/306500 HTTPS Web browser HTTPS Navigate directly to the URL for data access and direct download. download ftp://ftp-oceans.ncei.noaa.gov/nodc/archive/arc0232/0306500/ FTP Any FTP client FTP These data are available through the File Transfer Protocol (FTP). FTP is no longer supported by most internet browsers. You may copy and paste the FTP link to the data into an FTP client (e.g., FileZilla or WinSCP). download dataset NCEI Accession 0306500 v1.1 was published. 2025-07-29T16:32:00Z NCEI Accession 0306500 v1.1 publication https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/archive/accession/0306500/1.1 HTTPS NCEI Accession 0306500 v1.1 published 2025-07-29T16:32:00Z download dataset Parameter or Variable: 2025 Orthoimagery (measured); Units: pixels; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: DJI Mavic 3M; Sampling and Analyzing Method: A DJI Mavic 3M drone was flown at 32m altitude at a flight speed of 2 m/s covering an area of ~0.022 km2. Ground resolution for the drone imagery was calculated to be 9 mm/pixel resolution. 298 images were taken with 75% overlap and used to create an RGB ortho mosaic of the field site.; Data Quality Method: Ground control points. Parameter or Variable: Date (measured); Units: mm/dd/yyyy; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The date when the data were collected Parameter or Variable: Site (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The abbreviated name of the site where the data were collected= Pivers Island (PI) Parameter or Variable: Treatment (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Description of marsh treatment type, Natural or Sill Parameter or Variable: MarshType (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The type of marsh (based on marsh width) Parameter or Variable: Feature (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Additional features of the site and/or placement of the vegetation transects. Parameter or Variable: Transect (measured); Units: #; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: measuring tape; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The number used to identify each transect at each site. Transects run perpendicular to the shoreline. The start of the transect was located at the lower edge of Spartina alterniflora at the time of transect establishment. Parameter or Variable: Plot (measured); Units: meters; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: measuring tape; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Measured distance in meters of plot from shoreward end of transect. Plots are surveyed at standard distances from the shoreline along the transect. In meters, these distances are -1, 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and then at 10 meter increments until the end of the transect. Occasionally, the actual plot surveyed is not at these targeted distances. These discrepancies may arise from adjusting the plot due to disturbance, from variations in the laying of the transect tape, or from reestablishment of the transect markers being slightly off the correct distance. The targeted distance that the plot should be is stored in the 'NominalPlot' column Parameter or Variable: Cover Method (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Which cover classes were used to estimate percent cover: 2008 - 2019 CVS (Carolina Vegetation Survey, Peet et al. ) was used, 2020 - BB (Braun-Blanquet, Kenworthy 1993) was used Parameter or Variable: Acri (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Atriplex cristata, seabeach orache or other Atriplex species CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Bfru (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Borrichia frutescens, sea ox-eye CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Bhal (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Baccharis halimifolia, groundsel bush/cotton bush CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Cpal (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Cynanchum palustre, Milkweed vine CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Dspi (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Distichlis spicata, salt grass CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Hspp (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Hydrocotyle sp., pennywort CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Ifru (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Iva frutescens, high-tide bush or bigleaf marsh-elder CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Jroe (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Juncus roemerianus, black needlerush CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Lcar (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Limonium carolinium, sea lavendar CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Malb (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Melilotus alba, white sweetclover CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Pame (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Phytolacca americana, pokeweed CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Sspp (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Salicornia spp. (europaea and virginica), pickleweed CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Salt (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Spartina alterniflora, smooth cordgrass CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Slin (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Suaeda linearis, annual seablight CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Spat (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Spartina patens, salt meadow cordgrass CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Srob (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Scirpus robustus, Salt marsh bullrush CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Ssem (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Solidago sempervirens, seaside goldenrod CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: Vlut (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Vigna Luteola, hairy cowpod pea CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: macroalgae (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Macroalgae species CVS percent cover category (species name sometime indicated in notes) Parameter or Variable: Mussel (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Mussel CVS percent cover category. This category is a catch-all for various mussel species like Guekensia demissa (horse mussel), Brachidontes exustus (scorched mussel), Brachidontes recurvus (hooked mussel) and other species Parameter or Variable: other (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Other species CVS percent cover category. These are species not common enough for its own column - name indicated in notes (this was called unknown in the NERRS database). If more than one uncommon species is found values are seperated with a comma or placed into upland. Parameter or Variable: upland (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Upland/terrestrial species CVS percent cover category. Upland species are those that are not typical of salt marshes - this differentiates less common species from those from a different habitat. This category may not have been used consistently through the years. Parameter or Variable: oyster (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Oyster CVS percent cover category. This category does not differentiate between live and dead oyster because this was used early in sampling, before introduction of live and cultch categories. Parameter or Variable: oyster_cultch (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Dead oysters/oyster shell/other shells CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: oyster_live (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Living oysters CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: rock (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Rock CVS percent cover category, including sill structure and large rubble Parameter or Variable: wrack (measured); Units: percentage; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Wrack CVS percent cover category. Wrack is dead vegetation that originated outside of plot and carried by water into plot Parameter or Variable: DEBRIS (measured); Units: abampere; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Trash and other rubish CVS percent cover category Parameter or Variable: snails_per_area (measured); Units: snails; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The total number of snails (Littoraria irrorata) found within a specified area (see field Snails_Area). Parameter or Variable: snail_area (measured); Units: meters squared; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The size of plot area (m2) in which snails are measured. The NOAA vegetation survey protocol calls for this area to be the full m2 plot unless more than 25 snails are in a subplot of 0.25 m2 Parameter or Variable: snails_m2 (measured); Units: meters squared; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: An estimate of live Littorina littorea (common periwinkle) snails per meter squared in this plot. Not an estimate if Snails_Area = 1m2. Calculated by dividing snails_per_area by snail_Area Parameter or Variable: liveStem_per_area (measured); Units: meters squared; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Number of live S. alterniflora stems counted in a subplot of the whole plot. Parameter or Variable: deadStem_per_area (measured); Units: meters squared; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Number of standing dead S. alterniflora stems counted in a subplot of the whole plot. Parameter or Variable: stem_Area (measured); Units: meters squared; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The size of a subplot (in m2) in which S. alterniflora stems were counted. Parameter or Variable: liveStem_m2 (calculated); Units: meters squared; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: An estimate of live S. alterniflora stems per meter squared in this plot Parameter or Variable: deadStem_m2 (calculated); Units: meters squared; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: quadrat; Sampling and Analyzing Method: An estimate of standing dead S. alterniflora stems per meter squared in this plot Parameter or Variable: H1 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H2 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H3 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H4 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H5 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H6 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H7 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H8 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H9 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: H10 (measured); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: meter stick; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Height is the length from the soil to the tip of the green of the tallest leaf. The number following H represents the number of the sequential stem (1-10) measured. Selection of the plants detailed in methods Parameter or Variable: HMean (calculated); Units: cm; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The mean height (cm) of the measured S. alterniflora stems. Parameter or Variable: Notes (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: human; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Notes from the field or about the management of this entry Parameter or Variable: BM elev (m NAVD88 G12B) (measured); Units: m NAVD88; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: laser level; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Elevation of the brass marker on the SET in m NAVD 88 G12B Parameter or Variable: Pin # (measured); Units: #; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Surface Elevation Table; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The pin number printed on the pin arm and written on each pin. Parameter or Variable: Pin Height (m) (measured); Units: meter; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Surface Elevation Table; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The height of the pin above the pin arm in meters. Parameter or Variable: Average Pin Length (measured); Units: meter; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Surface Elevation Table; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The length of the pin in meters. Parameter or Variable: BM Arm offset (m) (measured); Units: meter; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Surface Elevation Table; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Vertical distance in m between brass marker and top of SET arm. Updated 6/21/19, The average height of the arm surface above the brass marker as measured by laser leveling in 2014. Parameter or Variable: Surface elevation (m NAVD 88 G12B) (measured); Units: m NAVD88; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Surface Elevation Table; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Calculated marsh surface elevation in m NAVD 88 G12B. Surface elevation of the marsh below the pin. The equation is: Orthometric Elevation of brass marker (m NAVD 88 G12B)+ 2014 average leveled arm height above brass marker (m)- Pin Length (m) +Pin Height (m) above arm. Parameter or Variable: Code (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Surface Anomaly Code for different materials or physical attributes of the surface where the pin has landed. A= algae, B=burrow, D= debris, F = Feldspar, H=hole, LO=live oyster, M=mussels, MD = Mound, O= oyster culch, P=plant, R=rock, RM = Root Mat, S=shell, T= animal tracks, Q=miscellaneous questionable readings, W=wrack. LO, O, and S anomalies may not have been recorded consistently. O may have been used for Oyster substrate including culch (shell) and live oyster. Parameter or Variable: SET reader (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Name of individual reading the SET. AH (also AKH)=Anna Hilting, AP=Abby Poray, CC (also CAC)=Carolyn Currin, DB = Danny Becker, MG=Mike Greene, LMW=Lexia Weaver, KF = Kelly Farrell KLD = Katie Dick (summer intern), JD - Jenny Davis, JH = Jack Hinton (summer intern), JW = John Wernly, LCB = Lisa Coward Barron, MG = Mike Greene, ML = Mike LaCroix, PD or PCD=Priscilla Delano, PM=Padma Maddi, QW = Quin Walker, RG = Rachel Gittman, SV=Sabrina Varnam, TM = Trish Murphey, VW or VWW=Valerie Winkelmann (Wunderly). B?, and BH are unknown Parameter or Variable: Elev (measured); Units: m NAVD88; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: digital level; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Elevation of the vegetation plot. Elevation measured with a digital level. Calculated in 'RC Shoreline Elevation Clacs' sheet or taken from previous versions of this master. Parameter or Variable: Geoid (measured); Units: not applicable; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Geoid used for the elevation calculation. Geoids are used to find the elevation of benchmarks, so a change in Geoid can mean that the benchmark elevation will change. Elevation does not nessesarily change between Geoids or the change may not be on a scale that is within out ability to measure Parameter or Variable: Correction (measured); Units: meter; Observation Category: laboratory analysis; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: The correction factor that should be applied to old elevations to bring the old measurements into the current geoid. This column used an if statement to check if the Geoid was G03 and then lookup the appropriate correction in the 'geoid comparisons' tab. however the values were pasted into the columns after the lookup was complete Parameter or Variable: Correct to G12B (measured); Units: m NAVD88; Observation Category: laboratory analysis; Sampling Instrument: not applicable; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Elevation when corrected (or left uncorrected) to Geoid 12b. This adds 'Elev (m NAVD88)' to 'Geoid Correction (m)' Parameter or Variable: Arm Position (measured); Units: letters; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Surface Elevation Table; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Letter of SET arm positions used for measures: A,B,C,D,E,F,G,H Parameter or Variable: Easting (measured); Units: m, UTM 18N; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Trimble GPS; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Walking survey Parameter or Variable: Northing (measured); Units: m, UTM 18N; Observation Category: in situ; Sampling Instrument: Trimble GPS; Sampling and Analyzing Method: Walking survey asNeeded Metadata are developed, maintained and distributed by NCEI. Updates are performed as needed to maintain currentness. NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information custodian camera camera An instrument for recording images. GPS GPS Global Positioning System receiver satellite-based instrument used for geo-location, positioning and navigation