Turn overhead canopy observations into a transparent sampling estimate.
Record upward canopy hits and open-sky observations. Your results can be printed or downloaded for field use.
Enter your measurements, then calculate.
Method and assumptions
At each predetermined point, look vertically upward using a consistent sighting method and record one covered or open observation. Percent cover = covered observations ÷ total observations × 100. Enter existing totals or use the tally buttons. Space observations consistently and avoid choosing only shaded points. This estimates point cover, not leaf area or species-specific cover. US Forest Service point-intercept method explains the hits/points approach.
Instructions
- Choose observation points before starting and use the same upward sighting method at each one.
- Enter Covered observations (hits) and Open-sky observations (misses), or tally with + Covered and + Open sky.
- Use Undo last tally to correct the latest tap, then select Calculate.
- Keep the totals and estimate with Print result or Download CSV.
Understanding your results
If 30 of 40 observations are covered, the point-cover estimate is 75%. This describes your selected points. It does not measure leaf area, identify tree species or represent the whole woodland unless your sampling design supports that comparison.
What to do if you cannot calculate a percentage
Enter at least one observation. Then check every point was counted once as either covered or open. Avoid selecting only shady spots. A larger total improves coverage of your sample but does not remove bias in where you looked.
Using this tool in your browser
This tool handles your entries in your browser with JavaScript enabled and does not save them automatically. Use the download or print controls described in the instructions to keep a copy before closing or reloading the page. On a phone, your browser controls where downloads go and which print options are available.
Summary
Consistent points and a consistent sighting rule make canopy estimates easier to compare.