SALINE MEADOW
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T1a More details
- Transition T1b More details
- Transition T2 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 variation under pristine conditions. Community phase changes are primarily driven by periodic wildfire and the drought cycle. Interactions between disturbance patterns and weather events determine plant community dynamics. Fire plays a significant role in plant community phase changes due to high production of herbaceous plants. However, the time between fire is highly variable and dependent on site productivity. Periodic flooding can be expected in certain site locations.
Submodel
Description
The invaded state is characterized by the presence of non-native species. A biotic threshold has been crossed with the introduction of non-native species that cannot be easily removed from the plant community and have the potential to significantly alter natural disturbance regimes from the historic range of variation. Ecological resilience is reduced by the presence of non-natives. In addition to non-native annual grasses this site is also capable of supporting large woody non-natives, such as Russian olive and saltcedar. Russian olive and saltcedar were introduced for horticulture purposes and have been intentionally planted in many areas.
Submodel
Description
This alternative stable state is characterized by reduced groundwater levels and the associated changes in plant community composition and structure. Lowering the water table has many impacts on the plant community including loss of biodiversity, diminished wildlife habitat value, and increased soil salinity. Meadow vegetation will be lost with decreasing ground water levels.
Submodel
Mechanism
Introduction of non-natives due to a combination of factors including: 1) surface disturbance, 2) changes in the kinds of animals and their grazing patterns, 3) drought and/or 4) changes in fire history.
Mechanism
Anthropogenic lowering of the ground water level, caused by intentional draining or road building leading to changes in vegetation composition, pattern and extent.
Model keys
Briefcase
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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.