Abstract
Nomograms relating fixed, variable and total costs (time) to sample size and precision are presented for use in research planning. Time costs for a survey of a Montana, U.S.A., stream were dominated by fixed costs and the laboratory component of variable costs while variable field costs were small. Reductions in both fixed and variable costs influence precision of low-budget survey sampling while reduction of variable costs in large budget research sampling has more effect on total cost than on precision.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Cochran, W. G., 1977. Sampling Techniques. Wiley, N.Y., 428 pp.
Cuff, W. & N. Coleman, 1979. Optimal survey design: lessons from a stratified random sample of macrobenthos. J. Fish. Res. Bd Can. 36: 351–361.
Elliott, J. M., 1977. Some methods for the statistical analysis of samples of benthic invertebrates. 2nd ed. Freshw. Biol. Assoc. Sci. Publ. 25: 160 pp.
Green, R. H., 1979. Sampling design and statistical methods for environmental biologists. Wiley, N.Y., 257 pp.
Resh, V. H., 1979. Sampling variability and life history features: basic considerations in the design of aquatic insect studies. J. Fish. Res. Bd Can. 36: 290–311.
Strahler, A. N., 1957. Quantitative analysis of watershed geomorphology. Trans. Am. Geophys. Un. 38: 913–920.
Waters, W. E., 1979. Biomonitoring, assessment, and prediction in forest pest management systems. In: J. Cairns, Jr., G. P. Patil & W. E. Waters (eds.), Environmental Biomonitoring Assessment, Prediction, and Management. International Co-operative Publishing House, Fairland, Maryland: 77–99.