Certified Forester Practice Exam

What is a primary goal of the stratified random sampling method?

1. To improve accuracy in population estimates

2. To reduce harvesting times

3. To enhance visual quality assessment

4. To create a large variety of tree species

The correct answer is: To improve accuracy in population estimates

The primary goal of the stratified random sampling method is to improve accuracy in population estimates. This method involves dividing a population into distinct subgroups or strata that share similar characteristics. By ensuring that each stratum is adequately represented in the sample, the approach reduces variability within the samples and provides more precise estimates of population parameters, such as average tree height, density, or volume. The effectiveness of this sampling technique lies in its ability to reflect the structure of the overall population, leading to more reliable data that can inform forest management decisions. In contrast, the other options do not directly relate to the primary focus of stratified random sampling. Reducing harvesting times or enhancing visual quality assessments may benefit from detailed sampling but are not the main objectives of the method. Similarly, increasing the variety of tree species pertains to biodiversity and ecosystem management rather than the sampling technique itself.