Pacing (forestry)

Pacing A reasonably easy and quick method of measuring distance in the field is by pacing [http://www.cnr.berkeley.edu/departments/espm/extension/PACING.HTM] . Pacing is a method used to measure a distance and is often used with a sighting or hand compass. Most commonly, pacing is split up into segments, such as chains, which are set measures of distance. By determining your own pace, distance can easily estimated.

Calibrating

To estimate your own pace a measure of known distance, such as 66’(one chain) or 132’ (two chains), should be marked in a straight line on level ground. One pace is defined as two footsteps. Pace the distance several times and record the number of paces it takes to walk the distance each time. If the distance paced is longer than one chain, the number of paces must be divided by the number of chains paced. To determine the average distance of one pace divide the total distance walked by the number of paces it takes to pace that distance. See pacing chart for paces per chain and feet per pace [http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/forestry/pdf/WON/won39.pdf] .

Applications

Common uses of pacing consist of measuring tree height or measuring the distance between plots. Pacing saves time but is not as accurate as using a tape measure and can be affected by terrain such as steep slopes, rocky areas, streams, and thick brush. A common practice in pacing when an obstacle is encountered is to offset or pace around the obstacle. However, sometimes pacing around an obstacle is not always an option. Good pacing can only be accomplished by practice. Knowing the distance of your pace will help to ensure the accuracy and precision of pacing distances.

Other uses

Pacing can also be used with a map. In the field, pacing can be used to accomplish the correct distances referred by a map. Traversing a property line or boundary where distance and length are important produces opportunities for pacing to be applied to record accurate data.

References

*http://www.cnr.berkeley.edu/departments/espm/extension/PACING.HTM
*http://www.mountaineering-scotland.org.uk/safety/distance.html