In 2000, CMI began vegetation-mapping efforts at the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge in Shirley, NY. This project utilized digital orthophoto quads (DOQs) available through the Long Island South Shore Project. These color infrared images provided the georeferenced background needed to delineate and interpret vegetation to the Alliance level, and sometimes Association level, of the National Vegetation Classification system. This work was followed by intensive ground investigation to visit vegetation polygons all over the 2,600-acre property. The result is a map containing 22 map classes, 15 of which are different vegetation types. All data, fieldwork, and imagery were provided in an ArcView GIS database.

In the Fall of 2000, CMI completed 2 smaller projects at the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge. The first was to establish and mark all terrestrial bird survey points to be used by the Refuge in subsequent bird survey efforts. This was accomplished using the refuge GIS and DGPS equipment in the field. The second project examined the relationship between Phragmites and salinity in the Carmen’s River marshes. Sampling grids were established in various locations on the refuge and vegetation characteristics were measures. We noted cover abundance values for Phragmites as well as Spartina alterniflora, Spartina patens, Typha spp. and other wetlands plants. We also measured Phragmites height, presence/distance to surface water, and salinity.