Developing Design Structure - Frame Materials

Following the guide for the development of a survey design for Aquatic Resource Monitoring.

The next step in the process identifies the available frame materials.

Continuing with the illustrative example of the design processes based on the EMAP Western Pilot Program.

Identifying the frame materials that provide a spatial representation and auxiliary information for all units of the target population.

Usually, the Design Process proceeds with existing frame materials
Although occasionally additional frame materials are needed for specific areas/features.

Partial list of potential frame materials

RF3 and NHD GIS coverages (Based on 1:100,000 maps)
Digital Elevation Maps (DEMs)
Hydrological Unit Codes (HUCs), River Basins, Watersheds, etc.
Stream Segment codes: perennial, intermittent, natural, constructed, Strahler Order, etc.
Political and Ecological Boundaries: States, EPA Regions, Ecoregions, Coastal Provinces, etc.
Special Interest Areas: National Parks, Federal Lands, ESA Species Ranges, etc.
Grid systems - Tessellation Strategies

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