Note:  The Non-forest and Forest classes may be the most difficult to label. Many professionals can go to the same site and disagree on the classification. Do your best and be consistent using the classes. Label the habitat based on a good sample (i.e. away from the path or edge of a forest) that best describes the habitat. Remember, vegetation is constantly growing, so classes may change within a couple of years.

Urban areas with a lot of large trees are not forests.

7 - Deciduous (including hardwoods, such as Madrona that are evergreen)

Forest classes:  dbh (diameter at breast height) measured 4.5' from the ground with a special tape measure. The circumference can be measured using a standard measuring tape. Take the measurement at the same height (4.5' from the ground) as you would a dbh.

The following codes are used for the Deciduous, Deciduous/Conifer mix and Conifer classes:

0 - All structure classes

0 - All age/size classes

1 - Saplings (1-4" dbh (3-14" circumference),15-30' tall)

2 - Pole (5-15" dbh (15-47" circumference), >30' tall)

3*- Small saw (15-20" dbh (48-63" circumference)

4*- Large saw (20-30" dbh (64-94" circumference)

5*- Old Growth: defined primarily by structure 2 or more layers, dominant trees generally >30" dbh on the westside.

6 - Young forests; mostly sapling or pole, possibly including seedlings

7 - Intermediate aged forests; mostly pole or small saw, may include variable aged forests.

8 - Mature to 'over-mature' forests; mostly saw timber to old-growth, may include mature forests of smaller stunted trees, such as some subalpine forests.

To estimate canopy closure, look at the ground and estimate shaded percentage. Walk or look into the forest to estimate canopy closure. The best time to test is when the sun is overhead, about mid-day.

0 - Open and closed canopy

1 - Open; 26-60% canopy closure

2 - Closed; 60-100% canopy closure

* - These would be homogenous stands. The trees would be about the same size and height.