Occasionally Flooded, Hyperthermic, Desert Pavement Ephemeral Stream
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T2 More details
- Restoration pathway R3a 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
State 1 represents the historic-natural condition for this ecological site. It is similar to State 2, but has only native species. If we were to include dynamics for this state it would be the same as displayed in State 2. The presence of non-native species is minimal in State 2, and has not altered the hydrology or fire frequency.
State 2
Reference State
Description
This state represents the most common and most ecologically intact condition for this ecological site at the present time.
Submodel
Description
This state may occur if the drainage hydrology is altered or the surrounding desert pavement surface is disturbed. This state was not observed within the Joshua Tree National Park, but downcutting of these drainageways was observed outside the park. More data is needed to describe this state and possible community phases.
Submodel
Mechanism
Surface flow alterations or disturbance of the adjacent desert pavement surfaces can trigger a transition to State 3.
Mechanism
Restoration from State 3 back to State 2 would be an intensive task. Individual site assessments would be required to determine proper restoration methods. Some hydrological modifications are not feasible restored, such as ground water depletion. However, road diversions can be redesigned to allow proper stream alignment and flow. Since these channels are relatively confined and do not braid or migrate, proper locations for culverts or breaks are easier to identify. Seeds or plants of appropriate species may need to be reintroduced to the restored channels.
Model keys
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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.