Dense Clay (DC) 10-14" p.z.
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1a
Non-prescribed grazing, no fire, extended drought (>7 years)
More details -
Transition T1b
Non-prescribed grazing, no fire, extended drought (>7 years)
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Restoration pathway R2a
Prescribed grazing, extended period of favorable precipitation
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Restoration pathway R3a - D to B
Prescribed grazing, fire, extended period of favorable precipitation
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Mechanism
Plant Communities A are much less resistant to disturbance than the HCPC. Lower production, lower vegetative cover, less litter, and increased bare ground increases susceptibility to disturbance, stress etc. Extended drought and non-prescribed grazing are the most common causes of retrogression to either States 2.
Mechanism
Plant Communities B are much less resistant to disturbance than the HCPC. Lower production, lower vegetative cover, less litter, and increased bare ground increases susceptibility to disturbance, stress etc. Extended drought and non-prescribed grazing are the most common causes of retrogression to either States 3.
Mechanism
Plant community C is resistant to significant succession. The adverse soil conditions and a theorized inadequate seed bank of high successional species greatly restrict potential for succession to State #1. Although succession usually does not occur within a reasonable length of time, anecdotal evidence indicates succession may occur with the combination of prescribed grazing, the resumption of a normal fire regime, and an extended period of favorable precipitation. Favorable environmental factors may favor succession of Plant Communities C to Plant Communities A. These possibilities are depicted by dashed arrows in the state and transition diagram.
In comparison to “normal” ecological sites (Silty 10-14” p.z., Clayey 10-14” p.z. and Sandy 10-14” p.z.) having soils > 20 inches in depth, the average annual aboveground production on this Dense Clay 10-14” p.z. ecological site is 50-60% less. Mechanical treatments and range seeding are not recommended on this site.
Mechanism
Plant community D is resistant to significant succession. The adverse soil conditions and a theorized inadequate seed bank of high successional species greatly restrict potential for succession to State 1. Although succession usually does not occur within a reasonable length of time, anecdotal evidence indicates succession may occur with the combination of prescribed grazing, the resumption of a normal fire regime, and an extended period of favorable precipitation. Favorable environmental factors may favor succession of Plant Community D to Plant Community B. These possibilities are depicted by dashed arrows in the state and transition diagram.
In comparison to “normal” ecological sites (Silty 10-14” p.z., Clayey 10-14” p.z. and Sandy 10-14” p.z.) having soils > 20 inches in depth, the average annual aboveground production on this Dense Clay 10-14” p.z. ecological site is 50-60% less. Mechanical treatments and range seeding are not recommended on this site.
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.