This protocol outlines the justification, objectives, and procedures developed for long-term monitoring of vegetation and soil throughout the National Parks Service's (NPS) Eastern Rivers and Mountains Network (ERMN) within the Inventory and Monitoring Program. Included in this protocol are: (1) background, rationale, and objectives for monitoring of vegetation and soil, (2) sampling design, (3) field methods, (4) data management, analysis, and reporting, (5) personnel requirements and training, and (6) operational requirements. Detailed Standard Operating Procedures that describe how all aspects of the protocol are implemented are included at the end of this document.