Quantile estimation using auxiliary information with applications to soil texture data

Abstract

Information from soil surveys is increasingly needed to support analyses in the areas of soil quality and environmental research and management. To provide a foundation for statisticcd estimation, statistical sampling procedures should be used to locate sites for collecting soils information. In this paper, we describe statistical tools for selecting samples for soil survey updates. We review sampling methods currently being used and propose a multi-phase sampling plan. A pilot project in which such a design was implemented is described. Example anedyses from this type of design are presented.