Open Canyon Slopes and Fans (PSSPS-SPCR)
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1a
Introduction of non-native species
More details -
Transition T2a
Severe or continuous disturbance in the presence of non-native annual species
More details -
Restoration pathway R3a
Seeding with native perennial bunchgrasses (or non-native perennial grasses in some cases); mechanical, biological or chemical treatment of exotic species; and/or alteration of grazing management.
More details -
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Description
The Reference State 1.0 is representative of the natural range of variability under pristine conditions. The reference state is bunchgrass dominated with a diverse forb component. State dynamics are maintained by interactions between climatic patterns and disturbance regimes. Negative feedbacks enhance ecosystem resilience and contribute to the stability of the state. These are maintained by elements of ecosystem structure and function such as the presence of all structural and functional groups, and retention of organic matter and nutrients. Plant community phase changes are primarily driven by fire and/or periodic drought.
Submodel
Description
This state is similar to the Reference State 1.0. Ecological function has not changed, however the resiliency of the state has been reduced by the presence of invasive weeds. Non-natives may increase in abundance but will not become dominant within this State. These non-natives can be highly flammable and can promote increased fire frequency. Negative feedbacks enhance ecosystem resilience and contribute to the stability of the state. These are maintained by elements of ecosystem structure and function such as the presence of all structural and functional groups and retention of organic matter and nutrients. Positive feedbacks decrease ecosystem resilience and stability of the state. Processes and characteristics that contribute to positive feedbacks include the non-natives species’ high seed output, persistent seed bank, rapid growth rate, ability to cross pollinate, and adaptations for seed dispersal.
Submodel
Mechanism
Severe or continuous disturbance in the presence of non-native annual species (e.g. catastrophic fire and/or soil disturbing treatments and/or inappropriate grazing management resulting in utilization of perennial bunchgrasses that impacts the plant’s ability to recover)
Mechanism
Restoration of some structural and functional plant groups may be possible with a combination of intensive management inputs and significant time. Inputs may include seeding with native perennial bunchgrasses (or non-native perennial grasses in some cases); mechanical, biological or chemical treatment of exotic species; and alteration of grazing management.
Context dependence
Success will likely be somewhat contingent upon favorable weather patterns following treatment. Multiple attempts may be required and likelihood of failure is high given hot and dry site conditions and low site resilience.
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.