Pine tree needle sampling system - uses balloon to mark tree to be sampled to low-flying helicopter performing sampling

摘要

The sampling system allows needles to be sampled from selected trees for subsequent laboratory investigation, using a helicopter (10). Pref. each of the trees to be sampled is marked by a balloon (15), filled with a gas which is lighter than air and tethered to the trunk of the tree, so that it floats at a level which is visible to a helicopter, flying over the trees. The tethering line (16) for the balloon is made of an easily separated material, e.g. paper. The strap (14) fitted around the trunk has the same identification colour as the balloon. ADVANTAGE - Simple needle sampling from tall trees without risk of injury.