Calcareous Hill
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T1 More details
- Transition T3 More details
- Transition T2 More details
- Restoration pathway R1 More details
-
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
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 shrubs 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
Description
The eroded state is characterized by a loss of perennial vegetation and reduced soil stabilization. The loss of vegetation has reduced ecological resilience. Feedbacks keeping this state stable include reduced infiltration, increased runoff during precipitation events, and increased rodent activity. Vegetation removal increases soil surface temperatures, reduces soil moisture and limits establishment of native perennial vegetation.
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, changes in fire history or any other type of vegetation removal. 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.
Mechanism
Repeated disturbance, including wildfire, removes perennial vegetation and decreases soil stability.
Mechanism
Repeated disturbance, including wildfire, removes perennial vegetation and decreases soil stability.
Model keys
Briefcase
Add ecological sites and Major Land Resource Areas to your briefcase by clicking on the briefcase (
) icon wherever it occurs. Drag and drop items to reorder. Cookies are used to store briefcase items between browsing sessions. Because of this, the number of items that can be added to your briefcase is limited, and briefcase items added on one device and browser cannot be accessed from another device or browser. Users who do not wish to place cookies on their devices should not use the briefcase tool. Briefcase cookies serve no other purpose than described here and are deleted whenever browsing history is cleared.
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.