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Ecological site EX043B23A166

Shallow Sandy (SwSy) Absaroka Lower Foothills

Last updated: 10/04/2019
Accessed: 11/13/2024

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General information

Provisional. A provisional ecological site description has undergone quality control and quality assurance review. It contains a working state and transition model and enough information to identify the ecological site.

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Figure 1. Mapped extent

Areas shown in blue indicate the maximum mapped extent of this ecological site. Other ecological sites likely occur within the highlighted areas. It is also possible for this ecological site to occur outside of highlighted areas if detailed soil survey has not been completed or recently updated.

MLRA notes

Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 043B–Central Rocky Mountains

Major Land Resource Unit (MLRA) 43B: Central Rocky Mountains

43B – Central Rocky Mountains – The Central Rocky Mountains extends from northern Montana to southern extent of Wyoming and from Idaho to central Wyoming. The southern extent of 43B is comprised of a combination of metamorphic, igneous, and sedimentary mountains and foothills. Climatic changes across this extent are broad and create several unique breaks in the landscape.

Further information regarding MLRAs, refer to: United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2006. Land Resource Regions and Major Land Resource Areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 296.
Available electronically at: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/ref/?cid=nrcs142p2_053624#handbook.

LRU notes

Land Resource Unit (LRU) 43B23A: Absaroka Lower Foothills

Based on the shifts in geology, precipitation patterns and other climatic factors, as well as elevations and vegetation, the Absaroka Range was divided into LRU 23. Further division of this LRU is necessary due to the gradient moving from the foothills to the summit, as well as aspect shifts (north/east face versus south/west face). Subset A is set for the lower elevations within the foothills with 10 to 14 inches of precipitation. To verify or identify the LRU A (the referenced LRU for this ecological site), refer to the Wyoming LRU matrix key contained within the Ecological Site Key. This particular LRU occurs along the eastern lower foothills of the Absaroka Range. This LRU starts north of Clark, WY and runs to the Thermopolis, WY area. Once the foothills cross into the Northern Beartooth Range, the climatic patterns and elevational changes shifts the plant community and allows for a break in LRU's near the Montana state line. As the LRU follows to the south and tracks east with the intersection of the Absaroka and Owl Creek Ranges, the face changes aspect and geology creating a shift in plant dynamics and a break in the LRU. The extent of soils currently correlated to this ecological site does not fit within the digitized boundary. Many of the noted soils are provisional and will be reviewed and corrected in mapping update projects. Other map units are correlated as small inclusions within other MLRA’s/LRU’s based on elevation, landform, and biological references.

Moisture Regime: Aridic Ustic or Ustic Aridic – Progressive Initial mapping has shown that soil correlations completed prior to 2014 were identified as ustic aridic, after further evaluation of climatic and soil taxonomy information the proper moisture regime is aridic ustic. Both are recorded here until an update project is completed to correct the previous correlations.

Temperature Regime: Frigid
Dominant Cover: Rangeland – Sagebrush Steppe (major species is Wyoming Big Sagebrush)
Representative Value (RV) Effective Precipitation: 10-14 inches (254 – 355 mm)
RV Frost-Free Days: 80-110 days

Classification relationships

Relationship to Other Established Classification Systems:

National Vegetation Classification System (NVC):
3 Xeromorphic Woodland, Scrub & Herb Vegetation Class
3.B Cool Semi-Desert Scrub & Grassland Subclass
3.B.1 Cool Semi-Desert Scrub & Grassland formation
3.B.1.NE Western North American Cool Semi-Desert Scrub & Grassland Division
M169 Great Basin & Intermountain Tall Sagebrush Shrubland & Steppe Macrogroup
G302 Artemisia Tridentata - Artemisia tripartita - Purshia tridentata Big Sagebrush Steppe Group
CEGL001535 - Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Pseudoroegneria spicata Herbaceous Vegetation or
CEGL001009 - Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrubland

Ecoregions (EPA):
Level I: 10 North American Deserts Level II: 10.1 Cold Deserts
Level III: 10.1.18 Wyoming Basin
Level IV: 10.1.18.b Big Horn Basin and
10.1.18.d Foothills and Low Mountains

Ecological site concept

• Site receives no additional water.
• Slope is < 50%
• Soils are:
o Textures range from sand to fine sandy loam in top 4” (10 cm) of mineral soil surface
o All subsurface horizons have a weighted average of <18% clay.
o Shallow (10-20+ in. (25-50+ cm)
o Not skeletal (<35% rock fragments) within 20” (50 cm) of mineral soil surface
o Non-saline, sodic, or saline-sodic

Associated sites

R032XY362WY	Shallow Loamy (SwLy) 10-14" East Precipitation Zone Shallow Loamy sites are found in complexes with Shallow Sandy at the base of outcroppings of inter-bedded sedimentary parent material.
R032XY350WY	Sandy (Sy) 10-14" East Precipitation Zone Sandy sites are found in complexes with Shallow Sandy sites, on sandstone outcroppings, escarpments, and ridges. Down slope from outcroppings, the soil is more weathered and has further developed making the Sandy site more prevalent.

R032XY362WY

Shallow Loamy (SwLy) 10-14" East Precipitation Zone

Shallow Loamy sites are found in complexes with Shallow Sandy at the base of outcroppings of inter-bedded sedimentary parent material.

R032XY350WY

Sandy (Sy) 10-14" East Precipitation Zone

Sandy sites are found in complexes with Shallow Sandy sites, on sandstone outcroppings, escarpments, and ridges. Down slope from outcroppings, the soil is more weathered and has further developed making the Sandy site more prevalent.

Similar sites

R032XY266WY	Shallow Sandy (SwSy) 5-9” Wind River Basin Precipitation Zone Shallow Sandy 5-9" Wind River Basin Precipitation Zone is lower in production than this site.
R032XY166WY	Shallow Sandy (SwSy) 5-9” Big Horn Basin Precipitation Zone Shallow Sandy 5-9" Big Horn Basin Precipitation Zone is lower in production than this site.

R032XY266WY

Shallow Sandy (SwSy) 5-9” Wind River Basin Precipitation Zone

Shallow Sandy 5-9" Wind River Basin Precipitation Zone is lower in production than this site.

R032XY166WY

Shallow Sandy (SwSy) 5-9” Big Horn Basin Precipitation Zone

Shallow Sandy 5-9" Big Horn Basin Precipitation Zone is lower in production than this site.

Table 1. Dominant plant species

Tree	Not specified
Shrub	(1) Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis (2) Rhus trilobata
Herbaceous	(1) Pseudoroegneria spicata (2) Hesperostipa comata

Legacy ID

R043BX566WY

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Physiographic features

This site occurs on nearly level to 50% slopes.

Table 2. Representative physiographic features

Landforms	(1) Foothills > Eroded fan remnant (2) Foothills > Pediment (3) Foothills > Escarpment
Runoff class	Negligible to medium
Elevation	5,400 – 7,500 ft
Slope	50%
Aspect	Aspect is not a significant factor

Climatic features

Annual precipitation and modeled relative effective annual precipitation ranges from 10 to 14 inches (254 – 355 mm). The normal precipitation pattern shows peaks in May and June and a secondary peak in September. This amounts to about 50% of the mean annual precipitation. Much of the moisture that falls in the latter part of the summer is lost by evaporation and much of the moisture that falls during the winter is lost by sublimation. Average snowfall is about 20 inches annually. Wide fluctuations may occur in yearly precipitation and result in more dry years than those with more than normal precipitation.

Temperatures show a wide range between summer and winter and between daily maximums and minimums, due to the high elevation and dry air, which permits rapid incoming and outgoing radiation. Cold air outbreaks from Canada in winter move rapidly from northwest to southeast and account for extreme minimum temperatures. Chinook winds may occur in winter and bring rapid rises in temperature. Extreme storms may occur during the winter, but most severely affect ranch operations during late winter and spring. High winds are generally blocked from the basin by high mountains, but can occur in conjunction with an occasional thunderstorm. Growth of native cool-season plants begins about April 15th and continues until about July 1st. Cool weather and moisture in September may produce some green up of cool season plants that will continue through late October.

Review of a 30 year trend of data for Average Temperature as well as Average Precipitation, there has been a warming trend, but as the last 12 years graphed, the temperatures have swayed high and low, but overall it has maintained a steady trajectory, neither increasing nor decreasing. Where on the moisture side, the trajectory in trend has been a slow decline. The swings of when spring warm up and first frost hit with the decline in average precipitation have produced a drought effect where the moisture is not being received when the plants and ground is able to utilize the moisture. And in some cases, the late precipitation has encouraged the warm season or mat forming species over the cool season bunchgrasses that are the drivers of the natural system. Early frosts, with dry open winters has created a more arid or desert effect on plants resulting in high rates of winter kill, loss of vigor or overall damage to the plant.

For detailed information visit the Natural Resources Conservation Service National Water and Climate Center at http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/. “Buffalo Bill Dam", "Cody 21SW", "Thermopolis", "Thermopolis 25WNW" and "Wapiti 1NE" are the representative weather stations within LRU D. The following graphs and charts are a collective sample representing the averaged normals and 30 year annual rainfall data for the selected weather stations from 1981 to 2010.

Table 3. Representative climatic features

Frost-free period (characteristic range)	64-106 days
Freeze-free period (characteristic range)	101-144 days
Precipitation total (characteristic range)	11-12 in
Frost-free period (actual range)	46-118 days
Freeze-free period (actual range)	88-147 days
Precipitation total (actual range)	10-13 in
Frost-free period (average)	80 days
Freeze-free period (average)	117 days
Precipitation total (average)	12 in

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 2. Monthly precipitation range

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 3. Monthly minimum temperature range

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 4. Monthly maximum temperature range

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Figure 5. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature

Figure 6. Annual precipitation pattern

Figure 7. Annual average temperature pattern

Climate stations used

(1) THERMOPOLIS [USC00488875], Thermopolis, WY
(2) THERMOPOLIS 25WNW [USC00488888], Thermopolis, WY
(3) SUNSHINE 3NE [USC00488758], Meeteetse, WY
(4) CODY 21 SW [USC00481855], Cody, WY
(5) WAPITI 1NE [USC00489467], Cody, WY
(6) BUFFALO BILL DAM [USC00481175], Cody, WY

Influencing water features

The characteristics of these upland soils have no influence from ground water (water table below 60 inches (150 cm)) and have minimal influence from surface water/overland flow. There may be isolated features that are affected by snow pack that persists longer than surrounding areas due to position on the landform (shaded/protected pockets).

Soil features

The soils of this site are shallow (10 - 20” to bedrock) well to excessively well-drained soils formed in eolian deposits or alluvium over residuum or residuum. These soils have rapid to very rapid permeability and may occur on all slopes. The bedrock may be of any kind except igneous or volcanic and is virtually impenetrable to plant roots. Thin ineffectual layers of other soil textures are disregarded. The soil characteristics having the most influence on the plant community are the shallow depths and light textures which can affect the available moisture.

Major Soil Series correlated to this site include: Blackhall, Rentsac, Byrnie

Table 4. Representative soil features

Parent material	(1) Residuum – sandstone and shale (2) Slope alluvium – interbedded sedimentary rock
Surface texture	(1) Loamy fine sand (2) Fine sandy loam (3) Sandy loam (4) Loamy sand (5) Sand
Family particle size	(1) Sandy
Drainage class	Well drained to excessively drained
Permeability class	Rapid to very rapid
Depth to restrictive layer	10 – 20 in
Soil depth	10 – 20 in
Available water capacity (0-40in)	0.4 – 3 in
Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-40in)	10%
Electrical conductivity (0-40in)	2 mmhos/cm
Sodium adsorption ratio (0-40in)	Not specified
Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in)	7.4 – 8.4
Subsurface fragment volume <=3" (Depth not specified)	10%

Ecological dynamics

Potential vegetation on this site is dominated by mid cool-season perennial grasses. Other significant vegetation includes winterfat and a variety of forbs and shrubs. The expected potential composition for this site is about 75% grasses, 10% forbs and 15% woody plants. The composition and production will vary naturally due to historical use, fluctuating precipitation and fire frequency.

As this site deteriorates, species such as threadleaf sedge, blue grama, and big sagebrush will increase. Plains pricklypear and weedy annuals will invade. Cool season grasses such as needleandthread, bluebunch and Griffith’s wheatgrasses, and Indian ricegrass will decrease in frequency and production.

The Historic Climax Plant Community (description follows the plant community diagram) has been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, or areas protected from excessive disturbance. Trends in plant communities going from heavily grazed areas to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts have also been used.

The following is a State and Transition Model Diagram that illustrates the common plant communities (states) that can occur on the site and the transitions between these communities. The ecological processes will be discussed in more detail in the plant community narratives following the diagram.

Plant Community Narratives
Following are the narratives for each of the described plant communities. These plant communities may not represent every possibility, but they probably are the most prevalent and repeatable plant communities. The plant composition tables shown above have been developed from the best available knowledge at the time of this revision. As more data is collected, some of these plant communities may be revised or removed, and new ones may be added. None of these plant communities should necessarily be thought of as “Desired Plant Communities”. According to the USDA NRCS National Range and Pasture Handbook, Desired Plant Communities (DPC’s) will be determined by the decision-makers and will meet minimum quality criteria established by the NRCS. The main purpose for including any description of a plant community here is to capture the current knowledge and experience at the time of this revision.

State and transition model

Custom diagram

Standard diagram

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Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective text

State 1
Indian ricegrass/ Bluebunch Wheatgrass

Community 1.1
Indian ricegrass/ Bluebunch Wheatgrass

The interpretive plant community for this site is the Historic Climax Plant Community. This state evolved with grazing by large herbivores, soils less than 20 inches in depth, and periodic fires. The cyclical nature of the fire regime in this community prevented sagebrush from being the dominant landscape. Cool season midgrasses dominate the state. Potential vegetation is about 75% grasses or grass-like plants, 10% forbs, and 15% woody plants. It is found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning, and sometimes on areas receiving short periods of rest. The major grasses include Indian ricegrass, bluebunch and Griffith’s wheatgrasses, needleandthread, and rhizomatous wheatgrasses. Other grasses occurring in the state include prairie junegrass, Sandberg bluegrass, and threadleaf sedge. Green needlegrass and spikefescue occur on sites in the higher part of this precipitation zone. Big and black sagebrushes and winterfat are conspicuous components of this state. Skunkbush sumac may also be present on sites in the lower portion of this precipitation zone. A variety of forbs and shrubs also occur in this state and plant diversity is high (see Plant Composition Table). The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 500 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 350 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 700 lbs./acre in above average years. The state is stable and well adapted to the Northern Intermountain Desertic Basins climate. The diversity in plant species allows for high drought resistance. This is a sustainable plant community (site/soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity). Transitions or pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows: • Moderate, Continuous Season-Long grazing will convert the plant community to the Perennial Grass/Mixed Shrub Plant Community. Prolonged drought will exacerbate this transition.

Figure 8. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)

Figure 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701, 10-14E upland sites.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
			5	25	40	10	5	10	5

State 2
Perennial Grass/ Mixed Shrub

Community 2.1
Perennial Grass/ Mixed Shrub

Historically, this plant community evolved under grazing and a low fire frequency. Currently, it is found under moderate, season-long grazing by livestock and will be exacerbated by prolonged drought conditions. In addition, the fire regime for this site has been modified and extended periods without fire is now common. This plant community is still dominated by cool-season grasses, while short warm-season grasses and miscellaneous forbs account for the balance of the understory. The overstory is comprised of a variety of shrubs. The dominant grasses/grasslikes include needleandthread, rhizomatous wheatgrasses, threadleaf sedge, Sandberg bluegrass, and blue grama. Forbs commonly found on the site include waxleaf penstemon, little larkspur, sulfur flower buckwheat, fleabane, and lemon scurfpea. Shrubs can make up to 15% of the annual production. These include big and black sagebrush, green rabbitbrush, Skunkbush sumac, and winterfat. The overstory of shrubs and understory of grass and forbs provide a diverse plant community. When compared to the Historic Climax Plant Community, bluebunch wheatgrass, Indian ricegrass, and winterfat have decreased. Plains pricklypear cactus may have invaded, but occurs only in small patches. Threadleaf sedge, blue grama, big and black sagebrush and a variety of forbs have increased. Total production is less as the mid cool season grasses are replaced with short grasses. The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 450 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 275 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 650 lbs./acre in above average years. The herbaceous component is mostly intact and plant vigor and replacement capabilities are sufficient. Water flow patterns and litter movement may be occurring but only on steeper slopes. Incidence of pedestalling is minimal. Soils are mostly stable and the surface shows minimum soil loss. Wind scouring and deposition areas are few. The communities’ soil, biotic integrity and watershed is intact, although more than normal runoff may occur due to the sod forming vegetation and bare ground. Transitional pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows: • Prescribed grazing or possibly long-term prescribed grazing will return this plant community to the HCPC. The probability of this occurring is high especially if rotational grazing along with short deferred grazing is implemented as part of the prescribed method of use. In addition, the removal of fire suppression will allow a somewhat natural fire regime to reoccur to more easily transition between this plant community and the HCPC. A prescribed fire treatment can be useful to hasten this transition if desired, however, this may require a removal of grazing for a period of time to build a surplus of fine fuels. • Frequent and Severe grazing on very coarse soils will convert this state to the Mixed Shrub/Blowout Dune Plant Community. • Frequent and Severe grazing on less coarse soils will convert this state to the Threadleaf Sedge Sod Plant Community.

Figure 10. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701, 10-14E upland sites.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
			5	25	40	10	5	10	5

State 3
Threadleaf Sedge

Community 3.1
Threadleaf Sedge

This plant community can occur as a result of frequent and severe grazing on less coarse soils. Shrubs such as big and black sagebrush and green rabbitbrush may remain significant components of the plant community, but a dense stand of threadleaf sedge has been established. Pricklypear cactus can also become pervasive in dense patches. Grasses/grasslikes of importance are threadleaf sedge, needleandthread, Fendler threeawn, Sandberg bluegrass and blue grama. Patches of annuals such as cheatgrass and other weedy annual forbs such as halogeton, Russian thistle, and kochia, will persist on this site. When compared with the HCPC, the annual production is less due to the reduction of the mid cool season grasses. Shrubs have also increased, but are not dominant, as the sod prevents further encroachment in the site. The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 300 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 225 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 400 lbs./acre in above average years. This sod is resistant to change under most levels of grazing and the reestablishment of perennial mid-grasses is difficult in this situation. The biotic integrity of this state is minimally functional and plant diversity is moderate to low. Production is reduced and plant vigor is diminished Water flow patterns are obvious in the bare ground areas and pedestalling is apparent along the sod edges. Rill channels are noticeable in the interspaces and down slope. The watershed may or may not be functioning, as runoff may affect adjoining sites. Pedestalling is apparent along the sod edges. Transitional pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows: • Grazing land mechanical treatment (seeding, etc.), brush management if necessary, and continued prescribed grazing, will return this plant community to near Historic Climax Plant Community. Any chiseling or disturbance in the sod should be implemented carefully so as not to create large openings, which can expose the soil to wind erosion.

Figure 11. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701, 10-14E upland sites.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
			5	25	40	10	5	10	5

State 4
Mixed Shrub/ Blowout Dune

Community 4.1
Mixed Shrub/ Blowout Dune

This plant community is the result of frequent and severe grazing on very coarse soils. Shrubs eventually dominate this vegetative state, as the annual production of shrubs will exceed 25%. Areas of bare sand also can dominate this site as wind scouring and deposition can occur and modify the soil surface. The shrub species are a significant component of the plant community and the preferred cool season grasses have been eliminated or greatly reduced. The dominant grasses/grasslikes are Sandberg bluegrass, threadleaf sedge, and blue grama. Weedy annual species such as cheatgrass may occupy the site if a seed source is available. Patches of pricklypear cactus can be noticeable. Big sagebrush and green rabbitbrush, as well as a variety of forbs, have increased significantly. Skunkbush sumac may also be present on sites in the lower portion of this precipitation zone. Plant diversity is moderate to poor. The interspaces between plants have expanded leaving the amount of bare ground more prevalent. When compared to the HCPC, grass production and available forage has diminished significantly, but the total production is somewhat compensated by the increase in shrub production. The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 200 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 100 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 300 lbs./acre in above average years. This plant community is relatively resistant to change. Continued frequent and severe grazing does not seem to affect the plant composition or structure of the plant community. These areas are more resistant to fire as less fine fuels are available and the bare ground between the shrub plants is increased. Plant diversity is poor. Production is reduced and plant vigor is diminished due to blowing sand, which can defoliate the vegetative parts of the grass plants. The soils are exposed to wind as erosion is accelerated and blowouts increase. Pedestalling is pervasive and eolian deposits (dunes) form around the clumped vegetation. This situation is normally extensive. Transitions or pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows: • Reseeding with mulch and/or no use or very long-term prescribed grazing, is necessary to return a protective vegetation cover to this state so as to convert this to the Near HCPC conditions. No use may return protective vegetation cover to the site or possible prescribed grazing that may take generations, may also accomplish this goal. The grazing prescription most commonly used is complete deferment during the growing season, with limited use in the winter. This will provide as much plant litter cover as possible to protect the soil surface.

Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701, 10-14E upland sites.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
			5	25	40	10	5	10	5

Additional community tables

Table 5. Community 1.1 plant community composition

Group	Common name	Symbol	Scientific name	Annual production (lb/acre)	Foliar cover (%)
Grass/Grasslike
1				75–125
	Indian ricegrass	ACHY	Achnatherum hymenoides	75–125	–
2				75–125
	Montana wheatgrass	ELAL7	Elymus albicans	75–125	–
	bluebunch wheatgrass	PSSP6	Pseudoroegneria spicata	75–125	–
3				25–75
	needle and thread	HECO26	Hesperostipa comata	25–75	–
4				0–50
	western wheatgrass	PASM	Pascopyrum smithii	0–50	–
5				25–75
	Grass, perennial	2GP	Grass, perennial	0–25	–
	Fendler threeawn	ARPUL	Aristida purpurea var. longiseta	0–25	–
	blue grama	BOGR2	Bouteloua gracilis	0–25	–
	threadleaf sedge	CAFI	Carex filifolia	0–25	–
	squirreltail	ELEL5	Elymus elymoides	0–25	–
	prairie Junegrass	KOMA	Koeleria macrantha	0–25	–
	spike fescue	LEKI2	Leucopoa kingii	0–25	–
	green needlegrass	NAVI4	Nassella viridula	0–25	–
	Sandberg bluegrass	POSE	Poa secunda	0–25	–
7				0–75
	Shrub (>.5m)	2SHRUB	Shrub (>.5m)	0–25	–
	black sagebrush	ARNO4	Artemisia nova	0–25	–
	big sagebrush	ARTR2	Artemisia tridentata	0–25	–
	yellow rabbitbrush	CHVI8	Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus	0–25	–
	winterfat	KRASC	Krascheninnikovia	0–25	–
	skunkbush sumac	RHTR	Rhus trilobata	0–25	–
Forb
6				0–50
	Forb, perennial	2FP	Forb, perennial	0–25	–
	rosy pussytoes	ANRO2	Antennaria rosea	0–25	–
	woollypod milkvetch	ASPU9	Astragalus purshii	0–25	–
	Indian paintbrush	CASTI2	Castilleja	0–25	–
	little larkspur	DEBI	Delphinium bicolor	0–25	–
	fleabane	ERIGE2	Erigeron	0–25	–
	sulphur-flower buckwheat	ERUM	Eriogonum umbellatum	0–25	–
	leafy wildparsley	MUDI	Musineon divaricatum	0–25	–
	beardtongue	PENST	Penstemon	0–25	–
	phlox	PHLOX	Phlox	0–25	–
	lemon scurfpea	PSLA3	Psoralidium lanceolatum	0–25	–
	scarlet globemallow	SPCO	Sphaeralcea coccinea	0–25	–
	smooth woodyaster	XYGL	Xylorhiza glabriuscula	0–25	–

Interpretations

Animal community

Animal Community – Wildlife Interpretations

Historic Climax Plant Community: The predominance of grasses in this plant community favors grazers and mixed-feeders, such as bison, elk, and antelope. Suitable thermal and escape cover for deer may be limited due to the low quantities of woody plants. However, topographical variations could provide some escape cover. When found adjacent to sagebrush dominated states, this plant community may provide brood rearing/foraging areas for sage grouse, as well as lek sites. Other birds that would frequent this plant community include western meadowlarks, horned larks, and golden eagles. Many grassland obligate small mammals would occur here.

Perennial Grass/Mixed Shrub Plant Community: The combination of a shrub overstory and an understory of grasses and forbs provide a very diverse plant community for wildlife. This diversity o provides important winter ranges, so mule deer and antelope may use this state for foraging and cover year-round, as would cottontail and jack rabbits. It provides important winter, nesting, brood-rearing, and foraging habitat for sage grouse. Brewer’s sparrows’ nest in big sagebrush plants, and hosts of other nesting birds utilize stands in the 20-30% cover range.

Mixed Shrub/Blowout Dune Plant Community: These communities provide limited foraging for antelope and other grazers. They may be used as a foraging site by sage grouse if proximal to woody cover and if the Historic Climax Plant Community or the Perennial Grass/ Mixed Shrub Plant Community is limiting. Generally, these are not target plant communities for wildlife habitat management.

Threadleaf Sedge Sod Plant Community: This plant community can supply some winter foraging for elk, mule deer and antelope, as sagebrush can approach 15% protein and 40-60% digestibility during that time. This community provides escape and thermal cover for large ungulates, as well as nesting habitat for sage grouse.

Animal Community – Grazing Interpretations

The following table lists suggested stocking rates for cattle under continuous season-long grazing under normal growing conditions. These are conservative estimates that should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of the conservation planning process. Often, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ecological site description). Because of this, a field visit is recommended, in all cases, to document plant composition and production. More precise carrying capacity estimates should eventually be calculated using this information along with animal preference data, particularly when grazers other than cattle are involved. Under more intensive grazing management, improved harvest efficiencies can result in an increased carrying capacity. If distribution problems occur, stocking rates must be reduced to maintain plant health and vigor.

Plant Community Production Carrying Capacity*
(lb./ac) (AUM/ac)
Historic Climax Plant Community 350-700 .20
Perennial Grass/Mixed Shrub 275-650 .17
Mixed Shrub/Blowout Dune 100-300 .05
Threadleaf Sedge Sod 225-400 .10

* - Continuous, season-long grazing by cattle under average growing conditions.

Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage for cattle, sheep, or horses. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock use needs to be supplemented with protein because the quality does not meet minimum livestock requirements.

Hydrological functions

Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic group B and C. Infiltration ranges from rapid to very rapid. Runoff potential for this site varies from low to moderate depending on soil hydrologic group and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75% ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. An example of an exception would be where short-grasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Areas where ground cover is less than 50% have the greatest potential to have reduced infiltration and higher runoff (refer to Part 630, NRCS National Engineering Handbook for detailed hydrology information).

Rills and gullies should not typically be present. Water flow patterns should be barely distinguishable if at all present. Pedestals are only slightly present in association with bunchgrasses. Litter typically falls in place, and signs of movement are not common. Chemical and physical crusts are rare to non-existent. Cryptogamic crusts are present, but only cover 1-2% of the soil surface.

Recreational uses

This site provides hunting opportunities for upland game species. The wide varieties of plants which bloom from spring until fall have an esthetic value that appeals to visitors.

Wood products

No appreciable wood products are present on the site.

Other products

none noted

Supporting information

Inventory data references

Information presented in the original site description was derived from NRCS inventory data. Field observations from range trained personnel were also used. Those involved in developing the original site include: Chris Krassin, Range Management Specialist, NRCS and Everet Bainter, Range Management Specialist. Other sources used as references include USDA NRCS Water and Climate Center, USDA NRCS National Range and Pasture Handbook, USDI and USDA Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health Version 3, and USDA NRCS Soil Surveys from various counties.

Information presented here has been derived from NRCS inventory data, Field observations from range trained personnel, and the existing range site descriptions. Those involved in developing the Loamy range site include: Chris Krassin, Range Management Specialist, NRCS and Everet Bainter, Range Management Specialist.

Those involved in the development of the new concept for Loamy and Loamy Calcareous Ecological site include: Ray Gullion, Area Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Jim Wolf, Resource Manager, USDI-BLM; Jack Mononi, Range Management Specialist, USDI-BLM; Daniel Wood, MLRA Soil Survey Leader, NRCS; Jane Karinen, Soil Data Quality Specialist, NRCS; and Marji Patz, Ecological Site Specialist, NRCS.

Inventory Data References:
Ocular field estimations observed by trained personnel were completed at each site. Then sites were selected where a 100 foot tape was stretched and the following sample procedures were completed by inventory staff. For full sampling protocol and guidelines with forms please refer to the Wyoming ESI Operating Procedures, compiled in 2012 for the Powell and Rock Springs Soil Survey Office, USDA-NRCS.
• Double Sampling Production Data (9.6 hoop used to estimate 10 points, clipped a minimum of 3 of these estimated points, with two 21 foot X 21 foot square extended shrub plots).
• Line Point Intercept (over story and understory captured with soil cover). Height of herbaceous and woody cover is collected every three feet along established transect.)
• Continuous Line Intercept (Woody Canopy Cover, with minimum gap of 0.2 of a foot for all woody species and succulents. Intercept height collected at each measurement.),
• Gap Intercept (Basal Gap measured with a minimum gap requirement of 0.7 foot.),
• Sample Point (10 – 1 meter square point photographs taken at set distances on transect. Red using the sample point computer program established by the High Plains Agricultural Research Center, WY).
• Soil Stability (Slake Test – surface and subsurface samples collected and processed according to the soil stability guidelines provided by the Jornada Research Center, NM.)

Other references

Baker, William L. 2006. Fire and Restoration of Sagebrush Ecosystems. Wildlife Society Bulletin 34(1): 177-185.

Bestelmeyer, B., and J. R. Brown. 2005. State-and-transition models 101: a fresh look at vegetation change. The Quivira Coalition Newsletter, Vol. 7, No. 3.

Bestelmeyer, B., J. R. Brown, K. M. Havstad, B. Alexander, G. Chavez, J. E. Herrick. 2003. Development and use of state and transition models for rangelands. Journal of Range Management 56(2):114-126.

Bestelmeyer, B., J. E. Herrick, J. R. Brown, D. A. Trujillo, and K. M. Havstad. 2004. Land management in the American Southwest: a state-and-transition approach to ecosystem complexity. Environmental Management 34(1):38-51.

Herrick, J. E., J. W. Van Zee, K. M. Havstad, L. M. Burkett, and W. G. Whitford. 2005. Monitoring manual for grassland, shrubland and savanna Ecosystems. Volume I Quick Start. USDA - ARS Jornada Experimental Range, Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Herrick, J. E., J. W. Van Zee, K. M. Havstad, L. M. Burkett, and W. G. Whitford. 2005. Monitoring manual for grassland, shrubland and savanna Ecosystems. Volume II: Design, supplementary methods and interpretation. USDA - ARS Jornada Experimental Range, Las Cruces, New Mexico.

NRCS. 2014. (electronic) National Water and Climate Center. Available online at http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/

NRCS. 2014. (electronic) Field Office Technical Guide. Available online at http://efotg.nrcs.usda.gov/efotg_locator.aspx?map=WY NRCS. 2009. Plant Guide: Cheatgrass. Prepared by Skinner et al., National Plant Data Center.

Pellant, M., P. Shaver, D. A. Pyke, and J. E. Herrick. 2005. Interpreting indicators of rangeland health. Version 4. Technical Reference 1734-6. USDI-BLM. Ricketts, M. J., R. S. Noggles, and B. Landgraf-Gibbons. 2004. Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range Survey and Assessment. USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Schoeneberger, P. J., D. A. Wysocki, E. C. Benham, and Soil Survey Staff. 2012. Field book for describing and sampling soils, Version 3.0. Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Soil Survey Center, Lincoln, NE. (http://soils.usda.gov/technical/fieldbook/)

Stringham, T. K. and W. C. Krueger. 2001. States, transitions, and thresholds: Further refinement for rangeland applications. Agricultural Experiment Station, Oregon State University. Special Report 1024.

Stringham, T. K., W. C. Kreuger, and P. L Shaver. 2003. State and transition modeling: an ecological process approach. Journal of Range Management 56(2):106-113.

United States Department of Agriculture. Soil Survey Division Staff. 1993. Soil Survey Manual, United States Department of Agriculture Handbook No. 18, Chapter 3: Examination and Description of Soils. Pg.192-196.

USDA, NRCS. 1997. National Range and Pasture Handbook. (http://www.glti.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/publications/nrph.html)

Trlica, M. J. 1999. Grass growth and response to grazing. Colorado State University. Cooperative Extension. Range. Natural Resource Series. No. 6.108.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA/NRCS). 2007. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov). National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA/NRCS), Soil Survey Staff. 2010. Keys to Soil Taxonomy, Eleventh Edition, 2010.

USDA/NRCS Soil survey manuals for appropriate counties within MLRA 32X.

Western Regional Climate Center. (2014) (electronic) Station Metadata. Available online at: http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/summary/climsmwy.html.

Contributors

Ray Gullion

Approval

Scott Woodall, 10/04/2019

Rangeland health reference sheet

Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health is a qualitative assessment protocol used to determine ecosystem condition based on benchmark characteristics described in the Reference Sheet. A suite of 17 (or more) indicators are typically considered in an assessment. The ecological site(s) representative of an assessment location must be known prior to applying the protocol and must be verified based on soils and climate. Current plant community cannot be used to identify the ecological site.

Author(s)/participant(s)	Ray Gullion, E. Bainter
Contact for lead author	ray.gullion@wy.usda.gov or 307-347-2456
Date	05/02/2008
Approved by	E. Bainter
Approval date
Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on	Annual Production

Indicators

Number and extent of rills:
Rare to nonexistent. Where present, short and widely spaced.
Presence of water flow patterns:
Barely observable.
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Rare to nonexistent.
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground can range from 25-55%.
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present.
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
Rare to nonexistent.
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Herbaceous litter expected to move only in small amounts (to leeward side of shrubs). Large woody debris from sagebrush will show no movement.
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Soil Stability Index ratings range from 1 (interspaces) to 6 (under plant canopy), but average values should be 2.7 or greater.
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Soil data is limited for this site. Described A-horizons vary from 1-10 inches (3-25 cm) with OM of .5 to 1.5%.
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Plant community consists of 65-80% grasses, 15% forbs, and 5-20% shrubs. Evenly distributed plant canopy (30-60%) and litter plus slow to moderately rapid infiltration rates result in minimal runoff. Basal cover is typically less than 5% for this site and does very little to effect runoff on this site. Surface rock fragments of 10-20% provide stability to the site, but reduce infiltration.
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
None. A coarse, dry subsurface will often refuse a probe, causing misidentification of a compaction layer. Most soil profiles must be described by hand dug holes.
Functional/Structural Groups (list in order of descending dominance by above-ground annual-production or live foliar cover using symbols: >>, >, = to indicate much greater than, greater than, and equal to):

Dominant:
Mid-size, cool season bunchgrasses

Sub-dominant:
perennial shrubs cool season rhizomatous grasses = perennial forbs

Other:
short, cool season bunchgrasses

Additional:
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Minimal decadence, typically associated with shrub component.
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
Litter ranges from 10-25% of total canopy measurement with total litter (including beneath the plant canopy) from 20-50% expected. Herbaceous litter depth typically ranges from 3-10mm. Woody litter can be up to a couple inches (4-6 cm).
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
English: 350-700 lb/ac (525 lb/ac average); Metric 392 -784 kg/ha (588 kg/ha average).
Potential invasive (including noxious) species (native and non-native). List species which BOTH characterize degraded states and have the potential to become a dominant or co-dominant species on the ecological site if their future establishment and growth is not actively controlled by management interventions. Species that become dominant for only one to several years (e.g., short-term response to drought or wildfire) are not invasive plants. Note that unlike other indicators, we are describing what is NOT expected in the reference state for the ecological site:
Bare ground greater than 75% is the most common indicator of a threshold being crossed. Big sagebrush, threadleaf sedge, blue grama, Sandberg bluegrass, buckwheat, and phlox are common increasers. Annual weeds such as kochia, mustards, lambsquarter, and Russian thistle are common invasive species in disturbed sites.
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All species are capable of reproducing, except in drought years.

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Natural ResourcesConservation Service

Ecological site EX043B23A166

Shallow Sandy (SwSy) Absaroka Lower Foothills

Last updated: 10/04/2019 Accessed: 11/13/2024

General information

Figure 1. Mapped extent

MLRA notes

LRU notes

Classification relationships

Ecological site concept

Associated sites

Similar sites

Table 1. Dominant plant species

Legacy ID

Ecosystem states

State 1 submodel, plant communities

State 2 submodel, plant communities

State 3 submodel, plant communities

State 4 submodel, plant communities

Natural Resources
Conservation Service

Last updated: 10/04/2019
Accessed: 11/13/2024