Natural Resource Measurements and Mapping: An Introduction to Field Skills and Data Analysis

Natural Resource Measurements and Mapping: An Introduction to Field Skills and Data Analysis introduces students to the important technical and analytical skills required to succeed in natural resources professions. Designed to function as a foundational textbook and workbook, the text focuses on skill development, application, and problem-solving. 

Students learn about navigation and map-reading, compass use, topographic surveying, and vegetation sampling and analysis. They develop the preliminary spatial skills required for both Global Positioning Systems and Geographic Information Systems. They also become familiar with land cover classification. 

The second edition of the text features new end-of-chapter summaries, additional topographical key terms and definitions, and a glossary. It also expands topical coverage to include GIS technology and the Public Land Survey System. Updates have been made throughout to ensure the content is current. 

Natural Resource Measurements and Mapping features a distinct focus on field work and data analysis to teach students practical skills and prepare them for a career in natural resources. It is well-suited to courses in earth and environmental science, field methods, geography, and natural resources management.

Alexandra Locher earned her Ph.D. in fisheries and wildlife at Michigan State University, East Lansing. Dr. Locher is an associate professor of biology and natural resource management at Grand Valley State University. Her professional writing has appeared in Journal of Wildlife Management, Journal of Applied Forestry, Wilson Journal of Ornithology, and PLOS One. She has received numerous grants for her research, including those from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. She is particularly interested in the ways in which forest management practices impact wildlife species and communities.