Alkali Flat 5-7
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T1 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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Description
The reference state is representative of the natural range of variability under pristine conditions. Plant communities are dynamic in response to changes in disturbance regimes and weather patterns. Plant community phase changes are primarily driven by long-term drought. Historically, fire had little impact in this system due to low fuel loading and widely spaced vegetation.
Submodel
Description
The Representative State is characterized by the presence of non-native annuals in the understory. Plant communities in this state function very similarly to the reference state, however, ecological resilience may be reduced by the presence of the non-natives. Introduced annuals such as red brome, Mediterranean grass and redstem filaree have invaded the reference plant community and have become a component of the herbaceous cover. These non-native annuals are highly flammable and promote wildfires where fires historically have been infrequent. Mature shadscale persists after this invasion by non-native annuals, however shrubs seedling and desirable grasses suffer reduced vigor and limited reproductive capability due to increased competition from non-natives.
Submodel
Mechanism
Introduction of non-native species due to a combination of factors including: surface disturbance, changes in the kinds of animals and their grazing patterns, drought and/or changes in fire history. Non-natives can alter disturbance regimes significantly from their natural or historic range and change ecological processes therefore creating an unlikely scenario to restore the site back to reference.
Model keys
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Ecological sites
Major Land Resource Areas
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.