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I have collected 30 replicates divided evenly among three transects approximately 100 meters in length. The transects were selected using systemic sampling consisting of one for each direction; north, south, east, and west. The replicates were selected using random sampling by using a stop watch to randomly produce a number to determine how many steps to take to find my next replicate. Each replicate was evaluated for trunk diameter at chest height and aspect of growth. Collecting sample data has been difficult as of late due to inclement weather including deep snow and extreme cold. A pattern noted in my data is that Douglas fir trees found on an eastern aspect had the smallest average trunk circumference, followed by trees on a northern aspect, trees on a southern aspect, and trees on a western aspect with the greatest average trunk circumference. In the context of my hypothesis, this data has caused me to reflect on my prediction that trees growing on a northern aspect will have a larger average trunk circumference.
