Slightly Alkaline, Rarely To Occasionally Flooded Ephemeral Stream
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition 2a 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. This state no longer exists due to the ubiquitous naturalization of non-native species in the Mojave Desert. 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 significant in State 2, but has not yet altered the hydrology or fire frequency.
Historically, stand-replacing fire was probably very rare in this ecological site due to the absence of non-native grasses to fuel fires (Sawyer et al. 2009). When fire did occur, it was probably low severity surface fire that promoted regeneration of short-lived species (Sawyer et al. 2009).
State 2
Reference State
Description
This state is similar to the natural state, but has non-native forbs present.
Submodel
Mechanism
Triggers that can cause a transition to State 3 include surface flow alterations and prolonged drought.
Any of the community phases from this state can cross the threshold to State 3, but community phase 2.3 and the later stages of 2.2 are especially vulnerable because decreases in vegetation density (and upland vegetation density) leave soils more susceptible to erosion (Bull 1997).
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. Seeds or plants of appropriate species may need to be reintroduced to the restored channels.
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.