In 1977, under separate funding, circa 230 0.1 ha plots were distributed across the Duke Forest to document variation in species composition and tree population structure. Unlike the great majority of permanent plots in North America, these plots have detailed information on herbaceous species and soil chemistry. Approximately 88 of these plots were relocated and resurveyed during 1999-2001. In addition, during the early 1990's 62 0.1 ha plots with detailed tree and herb data were established across a range of natural areas within the NC Botanical Garden and then resampled in 1997.