Frigid Sandy Loam Debris Flow On Stream Terraces
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
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- Transition T1 More details
- Restoration pathway R2 More details
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Submodel
Description
State 2 develops due to a long period with-out canopy disturbance, so when disturbance finally comes during this state Sierra lodgepole pine will dominate and aspen will be absent in the regeneration community. Without canopy disturbance, mature aspen die out in the shade of the Sierra lodgepole pine. The hormones required to induce suckering are not activated and, denied the sunlight needed for photosynthesis, the aspen roots eventually die. If there is not a nearby aspen seed source, it is eventually eliminated from the area. After a long period of rest, and elimination of aspen, Sierra lodgepole pine reproduces prolifically from seed after canopy removal. The actual time it takes to cross this threshold is unknown but possibly ranges from 200 to 300 years.
Submodel
States 2 and 5 (additional transitions)
2.2. Sierra lodgepole pine/blue wildrye
2.5. Sierra lodgepole pine/litter
Mechanism
The transition to State 2 may occur with the prolonged absence of fire or other disturbances, which would cause canopy mortality. If the lodgepole pine forest exists for a long enough period the aspen clones may completely die out and not regenerate after fire
Mechanism
Restoration of this site would be easiest after a natural disturbance, but considerable expense and maintenance would be needed. Aspen seed or seedlings would need to be reintroduced to the area while the Sierra lodgepole pine seedlings may need to be removed to eliminate competition.
Model keys
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The Ecosystem Dynamics Interpretive Tool is an information system framework developed by the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and New Mexico State University.