Mesic Xeric Slopes and Plateaus (Oregon White Oak-Ponderosa pine Hot Dry Herb/Shrub)
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1A
Fire suppression
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Transition T1B
Land conversion
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Restoration pathway R2A
Selective thinning and prescribed burning
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Restoration pathway R3A
Intensive planting and inter-seeding
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Description
In pre-European times oak stands were open due to frequent low intensity ground fires, many started by native Americans. Conifers like ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir were not a dominant part of the overstory. Native grasses, sedges, and shrubs were abundant in the understory. Large diameter oaks existed due to less competition from other oaks and conifers.
Submodel
Description
Long intervals of fire exclusion have increased stand density in oaks and advanced the encroachment of pine and fir. Much of the area in this condition. Stand replacing or mixed severity fires are the norm with the loss of larger diameter oaks.
Submodel
Description
Throughout the history of settlement these oak stands were near lower elevation areas used by natives and European settlers. Respective to that these oak stands have been altered by cutting, overgrazing, and conversion to other land uses.
Submodel
Mechanism
Fire suppression increased both stand density in oaks and also the abundance of ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir in the overstory. Native understory vegetation decreased with more shade along with oak regeneration.
Mechanism
Selective thinning of white oak and conifer removal followed by prescribed burning. Fuel loads assessed before any prescribed burning.
Model keys
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