This state represents the natural range of variability under pristine conditions. This state is dominated by singleleaf pinyon pine. Primary natural disturbance mechanisms affecting this ecological site are wildfire and periodic drought. Timing of fire combined with weather events determines plant community dynamics. This site may experience light to moderate grazing by wildlife. Pinyon-juniper habitat is generally arid and species are adapted to receiving limited annual precipitation. Overall, drought related mortality is low in this habitat type. Increased mortality following drought is likely caused by a combination of drought, insect attack and disease.
The Invaded State is characterized by a singleleaf pinyon pine forest with a trace of non-native annuals in the understory. State 2 is functionally similar to the reference state, however the presence of non-natives has reduced the ecological resilience of the site.
Submodel
2.1. Plant Community 2.1
2.2. Plant Communtiy 2.2
2.3. Plant Community 2.3
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.