Technical Notes: A pocket computer program for collecting forage selection frequency data in the field

Abstract

An algorithm was developed to conduct bite-count sampling employing a programmable pocket computer. The BASIC program was successfully employed to collect forage selection data on rangeland livestock at a remote field site in Tibet. The program features techniques that are applicable to developing programs for sustained frequency data collection using similar battery-powered computers. Pocket computers have been demonstrated to be powerful field tools, and their potential promise to increase as new units become available with larger memories and added features.