We present a rigorous but understandable introduction to the field of sampling theory for ecologists and natural resource scientists. Sampling theory concerns itself with development of procedures for random selection of a subset of units, a sample, from a larger finite population, and with how to best use sample data to make scientifically and statistically sound inferences about the population as a whole. The inferences fall into two broad categories: (a) estimation of simple descriptive population parameters, such as means, totals, or proportions, for variables of interest, and (b) estimation of uncertainty associated with estimated parameter values. Although the targets of estimation are few and simple, estimates of means, totals, or proportions see important and often controversial uses in management of natural resources and in fundamental ecological research, but few ecologists or natural resource scientists have formal training in sampling theory. We emphasize the classical design-based approach to sampling in which variable values associated with units are regarded as fixed and uncertainty of estimation arises via various randomization strategies that may be used to select samples. In addition to covering standard topics such as simple random, systematic, cluster, unequal probability (stressing the generality of Horvitz–Thompson estimation), multi-stage, and multi-phase sampling, we also consider adaptive sampling, spatially balanced sampling, and sampling through time, three areas of special importance for ecologists and natural resource scientists. The text is directed to undergraduate seniors, graduate students, and practicing professionals. Problems emphasize application of the theory and R programming in ecological and natural resource settings.
