The Use of Vegetation in Assessing Site Potential Within the Upper Coastal Plain of South Carolina

ABSTRACT
Using diagnostic plant species, an index was developed that is sensitive to site potential on the Savannah River Plant property within the upper coastal plain of South Carolina. Low index values indicate xeric, high upland flats and gentle slopes, while high index values represent mesic to hydric alluvial bottoms. A significant relationship was found between the vegetation index and loblolly pine site index. Vegetation index scores can provide useful resource interpretations for many disciplines.