Combining data from two i-Tree Eco surveys

[gunjan_sharma]

Hi,

Can we combine i-Tree Eco data collected during two different summer seasons for the same study area within the same Eco project? Specifically, we collected data for 100 plots during the summer of 2023–24 (December to March) and additional data for 35 plots in December 2024, all from the same study area. We have ensured consistency in data collection methodology across both seasons. Does it make sense to combine these datasets?

[Jason.Henning]

This depends on the goals of your project. If both data sets represent random samples from the same area then they can be combined into a single project. The only way to combine projects is to export the tree and plot data from one project and import that data into the other project. We have a video that covers the plot import process here.
It is very important that both projects have randomly generated plots for the same exact area or that you treat the separate projects as different strata within a stratified plot project. You should consult with a statistician if you are unsure if the combined project will represent a valid statistical sample. Violating statistical sampling assumptions will lead to incorrect results.