Semidesert Shallow Shale (Utah Juniper-Pinyon)

Description

This state includes the biotic communities that become established on the ecological site if all successional sequences are completed under the natural disturbance regimes. The reference state is generally dominated by twoneedle pinyon and Utah juniper, however depending on disturbance history, native grasses, forbs, or other shrubs may occupy significant composition in the plant community. Typically, in the reference state this site is self sustainable; however once invasive plants establish, return to this community may not be possible.

Reference State: Twoneedle pinyon and Utah juniper woodland

Indicators: A community dominated by twoneedle pinyon and Utah juniper, where shrubs, and native perennial grasses and forb production is variable.

Feedbacks: Disturbances that may allow for the establishment of invasive species.

At-risk Community Phase: this community is at risk when native plants are stressed and nutrients become available for invasive plants to establish.

Submodel