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Ecological site R053CY004SD

Wet Meadow

Last updated: 11/15/2024
Accessed: 12/21/2024

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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): 053C–Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains

The Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains (53C) is located within the Northern Great Plains Region. It is entirely in South Dakota encompassing about 3,990 square miles (Figure 1). The elevation ranges from 1,300 to 2,300 feet. The MLRA is level to gently rolling till plains including many areas of potholes. A terminal moraine occurs in the southern end of the MLRA. Moderately steep and steep slopes are adjacent to the major valleys. The headwaters of many creeks in central South Dakota occur in the high-lying MLRA. (USDA-NRCS 2006).

The dominant soil orders in this MLRA is Mollisols and Inceptisols. The soils in the area dominantly have a mesic soil temperature regime, an ustic soil moisture regime, and mixed or smectitic mineralogy. They generally are very deep, well drained or moderately well drained, and are loamy or clayey. This area supports natural prairie vegetation characterized by western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), needleandthread (Hesperostipa comata), and green needlegrass (Nassella viridula). Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), and prairie sandreed (Calamovilfa longifolia) are important species on steeper sites. Western snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis) and prairie rose (Rosa arkansana) are commonly dispersed throughout the area. (USDA-NRCS 2006).

Classification relationships

Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains (53C) (USDA-NRCS 2006)

USFS Subregions: Northeastern Glaciated Plains Section (331E); Missouri Coteau Subsection (331Ea); Western Great Plains Section (331F); Missouri Breaks Subsection (331Fe); Western Glaciated Plains Section (332B); Southern Missouri Coteau Slope Subsection (332Bd, 332Be); North Central Great Plains Section (332D); Southern Missouri Coteau Slope Subsection (332Dd); Southern Missouri Coteau Subsection (332De) - (Cleland et al. 2007).

US EPA Level IV Ecoregion: Missouri Coteau (42a); Southern Missouri Coteau (42e); Southern Missouri Coteau Slope (42f) - (USEPA 2013)

Ecological site concept

The Wet Meadow ecological site typically occurs in a basin or closed depression, and receives water directly from precipitation, surface overland flow, and groundwater discharge. Soils are poorly drained and formed in local alluvium. Permeability is very slow due to the clayey subsoil and the site will pond water 4 to 8 weeks in the spring of the year. Ponded water conditions and very slow permeability strongly influences the soil-water-plant relationship. Vegetation in the Reference State is codominated by grass-likes, warm-season, and cool-season grasses including woolly sedge, reedgrasses, and prairie cordgrass as well as switchgrass, fowl bluegrass, and a variety of other sedges and rushes. Key forbs include Rydberg’s sunflower, Canada goldenrod, Indian hemp, and cinquefoil. Non-native species such as reed canarygrass, Kentucky bluegrass or quackgrass may invade due to change in disturbance regime.

Associated sites

R053CY037SD	Deep Marsh These sites occur in a basin or closed depression. Soils are very poorly drained, and the site will pond water year-round in most years. The central concept soil series is Macken.
R053CY020SD	Loamy Overflow These sites occur in upland swales. Soils are moderately well drained which have water flow into and over/through the site. The central concept soil series is Mobridge, Onita, and Prosper but other series are included.

R053CY037SD

Deep Marsh

These sites occur in a basin or closed depression. Soils are very poorly drained, and the site will pond water year-round in most years. The central concept soil series is Macken.

R053CY020SD

Loamy Overflow

These sites occur in upland swales. Soils are moderately well drained which have water flow into and over/through the site. The central concept soil series is Mobridge, Onita, and Prosper but other series are included.

Table 1. Dominant plant species

Tree	Not specified
Shrub	Not specified
Herbaceous	(1) Carex pellita (2) Spartina pectinata

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Physiographic features

This site occurs on shallow swales or depressions.

Figure 2. Distribution map

Table 2. Representative physiographic features

Landforms	(1) Pothole (2) Depression
Flooding frequency	None
Ponding duration	Long (7 to 30 days)
Ponding frequency	Frequent
Elevation	1,300 – 2,300 ft
Slope	1%
Ponding depth	12 in
Water table depth	32 in
Aspect	Aspect is not a significant factor

Climatic features

MLRA 53C is considered to have a continental climate – cold winters and hot summers, low humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature may also abound. The climate is the result of this MLRA’s location near the geographic center of North America. There are few natural barriers on the Northern Great Plains and air masses move freely across the plains and account for rapid changes in temperature.

Annual precipitation typically ranges from 15 to 25 inches per year. The average annual temperature is about 45°F. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from about 15°F (Stephan, South Dakota (SD)), to about 16°F (Onida 4 NW, SD). July is the warmest month with temperatures averaging from about 72°F (Stephan, SD), to about 74°F (Onida 4 NW, SD). The range of normal average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 58°F. This large annual range attests to the continental nature of this area's climate. Hourly winds are estimated to average about 12 miles per hour (mph) annually, ranging from about 13 mph during the spring to about 11 mph during the summer. Daytime winds are generally stronger than nighttime and occasional strong storms may bring brief periods of high winds with gusts to more than 50 mph.

Growth of cool-season plants begins in early to mid-March, slowing or ceasing in late June. Warm-season plants begin growth about mid-May and continue to early or mid-September. Greenup of cool-season plants may occur in September and October when adequate soil moisture is present.

Table 3. Representative climatic features

Frost-free period (characteristic range)	107-127 days
Freeze-free period (characteristic range)	128-150 days
Precipitation total (characteristic range)	20-21 in
Frost-free period (actual range)	104-129 days
Freeze-free period (actual range)	127-159 days
Precipitation total (actual range)	19-24 in
Frost-free period (average)	117 days
Freeze-free period (average)	139 days
Precipitation total (average)	21 in

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 3. Monthly precipitation range

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 4. Monthly minimum temperature range

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 5. Monthly maximum temperature range

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Figure 6. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature

Figure 7. Annual precipitation pattern

Figure 8. Annual average temperature pattern

Climate stations used

(1) GETTYSBURG 13W [USC00393302], Gettysburg, SD
(2) GETTYSBURG [USC00393294], Gettysburg, SD
(3) HIGHMORE 23 N [USC00393838], Highmore, SD
(4) ONIDA 4 NW [USC00396292], Onida, SD
(5) PIERRE RGNL AP [USW00024025], Pierre, SD
(6) HARROLD 12 SSW [USC00393608], Pierre, SD
(7) STEPHAN 2 NW [USC00397992], Highmore, SD
(8) WESSINGTON SPRINGS [USC00399070], Wessington Springs, SD

Soil features

These are very deep, poorly drained, medium to fine textured soils. Saturated hydraulic conductivity is slow to very slow and available water capacity is high. Salinity and sodicity are typically none to slight. Water tables on this site range from near the surface to three feet below for several weeks during the growing season. The site normally receives additional water from surface runoff and/or underground seepage. This site occurs in potholes, depressions, and closed depressions. Slope ranges from zero to one percent. This site should show no evidence of rills, wind scoured areas, or pedestalled plants. The soil surface is stable and intact. Subsurface soil layers are nonrestrictive to water movement and root penetration. Ponded water conditions and slow permeability strongly influences the soil-water-plant relationship. The central concept soil series for this site is Tetonka.

Access Web Soil Survey (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/) for specific local soils information.

Table 4. Representative soil features

Surface texture	(1) Silt loam
Family particle size	(1) Loamy
Drainage class	Poorly drained
Permeability class	Very slow
Soil depth	80 in
Surface fragment cover <=3"	Not specified
Surface fragment cover >3"	Not specified
Available water capacity (0-40in)	7 – 8 in
Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-40in)	5%
Electrical conductivity (0-40in)	2 mmhos/cm
Sodium adsorption ratio (0-40in)	Not specified
Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in)	5.6 – 7.8
Subsurface fragment volume <=3" (Depth not specified)	4%
Subsurface fragment volume >3" (Depth not specified)	2%

Ecological dynamics

State and Community Phases
The information in this Ecological Site Description, including the state-and-transition model (STM), was developed based on historical data, current field data, professional experience, and a review of the scientific literature. As a result, all possible scenarios or plant species may not be included. Key indicator plant species, disturbances, and ecological processes are described to inform land management decisions.

The site which is located in the Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains Region developed under Northern Great Plains climatic conditions and included natural influence of large herding herbivores and occasional fire. Changes will occur in the plant communities due to weather fluctuations and/or management actions. Under adverse impacts, a relatively rapid decline in vegetative vigor and composition can occur. Under favorable conditions the site has the potential to resemble the Reference State. Interpretations for this site are based primarily on the 1.1 Prairie Cordgrass-Woolly Sedge-Northern Reedgrass Plant Community Phase. This community phase and the Reference State have been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, areas protected from excessive disturbance, and areas under long-term rotational grazing regimes. Trends in plant community dynamics ranging from heavily grazed to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts also have been considered.

This ecological site (ES) has been grazed by domestic livestock since introduced into the area. The introduction of domestic livestock and the use of fencing and reliable water sources have changed the disturbance regime of this site. Heavy continuous grazing without adequate recovery periods following each grazing occurrence causes this site to depart from the Reference State. Species such as fowl bluegrass (Poa palustris), spikerush (Eleocharis), and Baltic rush (Juncus balticus) will initially increase. Prairie cordgrass and northern reedgrass will decrease in frequency and production. Continued heavy grazing eventually causes quackgrass (Elymus repens), foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), spikerush and unpalatable forbs such as curly dock (Rumex crispus) to increase and dominate.

Following the state and transition diagram are narratives for each of the described states and community phases. These may not represent every possibility, but they are the most prevalent and repeatable states/community phases. The plant composition tables shown below have been developed from the best available knowledge at the time of this revision. As more data are collected, some of these community phases and/or states may be revised or removed, and new ones may be added. The main purpose for including the descriptions here is to capture the current knowledge and experience at the time of this revision.

The following is a diagram that illustrates the common plant community phases that can occur on the site and the transition and community pathways between them. The ecological processes will be discussed in more detail in the plant community descriptions following the diagram.

State and transition model

Custom diagram

Standard diagram

Figure 9. State-And-Transition model

Figure 10. Matrix

More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models

More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective text

Ecosystem states

1. Reference State

2. Invaded State

3. Crop Production State

T1A & T1B	-	Non-use, no fire, heavy continuous grazing
T1C	-	Tillage, artificial drainage
T2A & T2B	-	Long term prescribed grazing, seeding
T2C	-	Tillage, artificial drainage
T3A & T3B	-	Seeding, wetland restoration, cropped and abandoned

State 1 submodel, plant communities

1.1. Prairie Cordgrass-Woolly Sedge-Northern Reedgrass

1.2. Spikerush-Fescue Sedge-Prairie Cordgrass

1.1A	-	Heavy continuous grazing
1.2A	-	Prescribed grazing

State 2 submodel, plant communities

2.1. Reed Canarygrass-Fowl Bluegrass-Invasive Plants-Quackgrass

2.2. Quackgrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Foxtail Barley

2.3. Annual Pioneer-Perennial Pioneer

2.1A	-	Heavy continuous grazing
2.2A	-	Prescribed grazing
2.3A	-	Time w/wo disturbance

State 3 submodel, plant communities

3.1. Annual Crops

State 1
Reference State

The Wet Meadow site typically occurs in a basin or closed depression, and receives water directly from precipitation, surface overland flow, and groundwater discharge. Soils are poorly drained and formed in local alluvium. Permeability is very slow and the site will pond water 4 to 8 weeks in the spring of the year. Ponded water conditions and very slow permeability strongly influences the soil-water-plant relationship. The central concept soil series is Tetonka, but other series are included. This state represents the natural range of variability that dominates the dynamics of this ES. This state is typically codominated by cool- and warm-season grasses. Before European settlement, the primary disturbance mechanisms for this site in the reference condition included periodic fire, grazing by large herding ungulates, and fluctuations in the water table and ponding frequency and duration. Frequent surface fires (3 to 5 years) and grazing coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. Today, the primary disturbance is from a lack of fire, concentrated livestock grazing, and weather fluctuations. Species that are desirable for livestock and wildlife can decline and a corresponding increase in less desirable species will occur.

Community 1.1
Prairie Cordgrass-Woolly Sedge-Northern Reedgrass

Interpretations are based primarily on the 1.1 Prairie Cordgrass-Woolly Sedge-Northern Reedgrass Plant Community Phase (this is also considered to be climax). This community evolved with grazing by large herbivores, occasional prairie fires, and relatively frequent ponding events and can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning, and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. The potential vegetation is about 50 percent grass-like species, 40 percent grasses, and 10 percent forbs by air-dry weight. Prairie cordgrass is the dominant tall warm-season grass occupying this plant community. Northern reedgrass is the dominant tall cool-season species. A variety of sedges and rushes occur throughout this community, as well as, switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and fowl bluegrass. Key forbs include Rydberg’s sunflower (Helianthus nuttallii), Canada goldenrod (Solidago canacensis), dogbane (Apocynum), and cinquefoil (Potentilla). This plant community phase is diverse, stable, and productive, and is well adapted to the Northern Great Plains. The high water table supplies much of the moisture for plant growth. Community dynamics, nutrient cycle, water cycle, and energy flow are functioning properly. Plant litter is properly distributed with very little movement offsite and natural plant mortality is very low. The diversity in plant species allows for the variability of both the fluctuations of water table and reoccurring ponding. This is a sustainable plant community in terms of soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.

Figure 11. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)

Table 5. Annual production by plant type

Plant type	Low (lb/acre)	Representative value (lb/acre)	High (lb/acre)
Grass/Grasslike	3305	4050	4690
Forb	195	450	810
Total	3500	4500	5500

Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5306, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, lowland cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant, lowland..

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	6	15	20	26	17	9	4	3	0	0

Community 1.2
Spikerush-Fescue Sedge-Prairie Cordgrass

This community develops with periods of heavy continuous grazing with lack of adequate recovery periods during the growing season following periods of below normal precipitation. Lack of litter and reduced plant heights result in higher soil temperatures and reduced water infiltration rates. Recognition of this plant community will enable the land user to implement key management decisions before a significant ecological threshold is crossed. Prairie cordgrass has been reduced in this plant community but still persists. Spikerush, fescue sedge (Carex brevior) (also called shortbeak sedge), and prairie cordgrass are the dominant species. Spikerush and Baltic rush, as well as, other grass-likes have increased. Northern reedgrass has been significantly reduced. Switchgrass may be removed at this stage. Reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea) may begin to increase significantly. Forb species would include asters (Asteraceae), goldenrod (Solidago) and cinquefoil, as well as, a possible invasion of Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense). Plant production and frequency have been reduced. The water cycle, nutrient cycle, and energy flow are slightly reduced but continue to function adequately.

Figure 13. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)

Table 6. Annual production by plant type

Plant type	Low (lb/acre)	Representative value (lb/acre)	High (lb/acre)
Grass/Grasslike	2345	3238	4090
Forb	155	262	410
Total	2500	3500	4500

Figure 14. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5306, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, lowland cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant, lowland..

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	6	15	20	26	17	9	4	3	0	0

Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2

Heavy continuous grazing which includes herbivory at moderate to heavy levels at the same time of year each year without adequate recovery periods, or during periods of below normal precipitation when grazing frequency and intensity increases on these sites due to limited forage availability on adjacent upland sites will shift this community to the 1.2 Spikerush- Fescue Sedge-Prairie Cordgrass Plant Community Phase.

Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1

Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 1.1 Prairie Cordgrass-Woolly Sedge-Northern Reedgrass Plant Community Phase. This pathway could also occur with a return to more normal precipitation levels and frequencies.

Conservation practices

Prescribed Grazing

State 2
Invaded State

This state is characterized by the dominance of invasive and/or nonnative species as a result of disturbance regimes outside the normal variability. Loss or reduction of native cool- and warm-season grasses and the forb component have negatively impacted energy flow and nutrient cycling. Infiltration is reduced and native plant mortality is increased. As the disturbance level increases, native plant density decreases even more, giving way to annual species and invasive perennial species, as well as, an increase in bare ground.

Community 2.1
Reed Canarygrass-Fowl Bluegrass-Invasive Plants-Quackgrass

This plant community phase develops with a long-term lack of grazing and/or fire. Eventually litter levels become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density. Years of accumulated litter will tend to make this community wetter. Sedge (Carex), Baltic rush, spikerush, and bulrush (Schoenoplectus) will increase. Hydrophytic forbs will also increase. Reed canarygrass often will increase to the point of dominance, while prairie cordgrass will diminish significantly. Other invasive plants such as creeping meadow foxtail (Alopecurus arundinaceus) may become prevalent if a seed source is present or nearby. Nutrient cycling will be greatly diminished and the energy flow will shift significantly and be reduced as well due to the increase in plant litter. Infiltration will be reduced somewhat compared to the Reference State. This plant community is somewhat resistant to change. The combination of both grazing and fire is most effective in moving this plant community towards the Reference State.

Figure 15. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)

Table 7. Annual production by plant type

Plant type	Low (lb/acre)	Representative value (lb/acre)	High (lb/acre)
Grass/Grasslike	2435	3378	4305
Forb	65	122	195
Total	2500	3500	4500

Figure 16. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5306, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, lowland cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant, lowland..

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	6	15	20	26	17	9	4	3	0	0

Community 2.2
Quackgrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Foxtail Barley

This plant community phase occurs after prolonged heavy disturbance such as described above in the community pathway (i.e., heavy grazing pressure without adequate recovery). The prolonged nature of this disturbance will tend to increase soil temperatures and evaporation, causing this site to become drier than normal. This allows the increase/invasion of typically less hydrophytic vegetation such as quackgrass (Elymus repens) and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis). A significant amount of production and diversity has been lost when compared to the Reference State. Loss or reduction of native cool- and warm-season grasses, and the native forb component have negatively impacted energy flow and nutrient cycling. It will take an extended period of time to restore this plant community back to the Reference State with improved management. Renovation is typically not practical but may be the only means to significantly restore the ecological processes on this site.

Figure 17. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)

Table 8. Annual production by plant type

Plant type	Low (lb/acre)	Representative value (lb/acre)	High (lb/acre)
Grass/Grasslike	1490	2250	2955
Forb	110	250	445
Total	1600	2500	3400

Figure 18. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5306, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, lowland cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant, lowland..

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	6	15	20	26	17	9	4	3	0	0

Community 2.3
Annual Pioneer-Perennial Pioneer

This plant community develops under severe disturbance, typically abandonment after cropping. The dominant vegetation includes pioneer annual or perennial grasses, forbs, invaders, and early successional biennial and perennial species. Grasses may include inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), foxtail barley, barnyardgrass (Echinochloa), quackgrass, fowl bluegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, Baltic rush, and sedges. The dominant forbs include curlycup gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa), Canada thistle, and other early successional species. The community is susceptible to invasion of nonnative species due to severe soil disturbances and relatively high percent of bare ground. This plant community is resistant to change, as long as soil disturbance or severe vegetation defoliation persists, thus holding back secondary plant succession. Significant economic inputs, management, and time would be required to move this plant community toward a higher successional stage. Secondary succession is highly variable, depending upon availability and diversity of a viable reproductive source of higher successional species. This plant community may be renovated to improve the production capability but management changes would be needed to maintain the new plant community.

Pathway 2.1A
Community 2.1 to 2.2

Heavy continuous grazing which includes herbivory at moderate to heavy levels at the same time of year each year without adequate recovery periods, or during periods of below normal precipitation when grazing frequency and intensity increases on these sites due to limited forage availability on adjacent upland sites will shift this community to the 2.2 Quackgrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Foxtail Barley Plant Community Phase.

Pathway 2.2A
Community 2.2 to 2.1

Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 2.1 Reed Canarygrass-Fowl Bluegrass-Invasive Plants-Quackgrass Plant Community Phase. This pathway could also occur with a return to more normal precipitation levels and frequencies.

Pathway 2.3A
Community 2.3 to 2.2

This community pathway occurs with the passage of time as successional processes take place and perennial plants gradually begin to establish on the site again. This pathway will lead to the Quackgrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Foxtail Barley Plant Community Phase.

State 3
Crop Production State

This state is characterized by the production of annual crops using a variety of tillage and cropping systems along with management practices. Cropping on this site is enabled during years with drier than normal precipitation or with artificial drainage (surface or subsurface).

Community 3.1
Annual Crops

This plant community developed with the use of a variety of tillage systems and cropping systems for the production of annual crops including corn, soybeans, wheat, and a variety of other crops.

Transition T1A & T1B
State 1 to 2

T1A: Non-use and/or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 years or more) causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity will eventually cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 2.1 Reed Canarygrass-Fowl Bluegrass-Invasive Plants-Quackgrass Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 2). Grazing repeatedly in the early growing season can expedite this shift by causing mechanical disturbance due to trampling. T1B: Heavy continuous grazing (stocking levels well above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season and often at the same time of year each year) will eventually cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 2.2 Quackgrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Foxtail Barley Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 2). Grazing repeatedly in the early growing season can expedite this shift by causing mechanical disturbance due to trampling.

Transition T1C
State 1 to 3

Tillage, artificial drainage (surface and subsurface) will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 3.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 3).

Restoration pathway T2A & T2B
State 2 to 1

T2A: Long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) coupled with prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels may lead this 2.1 Reed Canarygrass-Fowl Bluegrass-Invasive Plants-Quackgrass Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 2) over a threshold to the Reference State (State 1). T2B: Seeding followed by long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Reference State (State 1). Wetland restoration techniques may be necessary to restore biotic integrity and plant diversity and productivity.

Conservation practices

Prescribed Grazing
Wetland Restoration

Transition T2C
State 2 to 3

Tillage, artificial drainage (surface and subsurface) will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 3.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 3).

Restoration pathway T3A & T3B
State 3 to 2

Wetland restoration along with seeding of perennial species adapted to the site may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 2). Cropping followed by abandonment may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 2) and more specifically to the 2.3 Annual Pioneer-Perennial Pioneer Plant Community Phase.

Additional community tables

Table 9. Community 1.1 plant community composition

Group	Common name	Symbol	Scientific name	Annual production (lb/acre)	Foliar cover (%)
Grass/Grasslike
1	Grass-likes			1125–1800
	woolly sedge	CAPE42	Carex pellita	90–675	–
	clustered field sedge	CAPR5	Carex praegracilis	90–450	–
	Sartwell's sedge	CASA8	Carex sartwellii	90–450	–
	shortbeak sedge	CABR10	Carex brevior	90–450	–
	Grass-like (not a true grass)	2GL	Grass-like (not a true grass)	90–360	–
	green bulrush	SCAT2	Scirpus atrovirens	45–360	–
	spikerush	ELEOC	Eleocharis	90–225	–
	mountain rush	JUARL	Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis	45–90	–
	flatsedge	CYPER	Cyperus	0–90	–
2	Tall Warm-Season Grasses			900–1350
	prairie cordgrass	SPPE	Spartina pectinata	675–1350	–
	spiked muhly	MUGL3	Muhlenbergia glomerata	90–450	–
	switchgrass	PAVI2	Panicum virgatum	0–225	–
3	Tall Cool-Season Grasses			450–1125
	northern reedgrass	CASTI3	Calamagrostis stricta ssp. inexpansa	225–675	–
	slimstem reedgrass	CASTS5	Calamagrostis stricta ssp. stricta	90–450	–
	bluejoint	CACA4	Calamagrostis canadensis	90–450	–
	reed canarygrass	PHAR3	Phalaris arundinacea	0–225	–
4	Cool-Season Bunchgrasses			225–450
	plains bluegrass	POAR3	Poa arida	45–360	–
	fowl bluegrass	POPA2	Poa palustris	90–360	–
	foxtail barley	HOJU	Hordeum jubatum	0–90	–
5	Wheatgrass			45–225
	slender wheatgrass	ELTR7	Elymus trachycaulus	0–225	–
	western wheatgrass	PASM	Pascopyrum smithii	45–225	–
6	Other Native Grasses			45–225
	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	2GRAM	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	0–225	–
	mat muhly	MURI	Muhlenbergia richardsonis	0–135	–
Forb
7	Forbs			225–675
	Forb, native	2FN	Forb, native	45–180	–
	Pennsylvania smartweed	POPE2	Polygonum pensylvanicum	45–135	–
	New England aster	SYNO2	Symphyotrichum novae-angliae	45–135	–
	cinquefoil	POTEN	Potentilla	45–90	–
	mint	MENTH	Mentha	0–90	–
	curlytop knotweed	POLA4	Polygonum lapathifolium	0–90	–
	western dock	RUAQ	Rumex aquaticus	45–90	–
	blackeyed Susan	RUHI2	Rudbeckia hirta	0–90	–
	giant goldenrod	SOGI	Solidago gigantea	0–90	–
	goldenrod	SOLID	Solidago	45–90	–
	white panicle aster	SYLA6	Symphyotrichum lanceolatum	45–90	–
	Canadian anemone	ANCA8	Anemone canadensis	45–90	–
	Indianhemp	APCA	Apocynum cannabinum	0–90	–
	Flodman's thistle	CIFL	Cirsium flodmanii	45–90	–
	Illinois bundleflower	DEIL	Desmanthus illinoensis	0–90	–
	American licorice	GLLE3	Glycyrrhiza lepidota	0–90	–
	blazing star	LIATR	Liatris	0–90	–
	wood lily	LIPH	Lilium philadelphicum	0–45	–
	Rydberg's sunflower	HENUR	Helianthus nuttallii ssp. rydbergii	0–45	–
	smooth horsetail	EQLA	Equisetum laevigatum	0–45	–
	Virginia strawberry	FRVI	Fragaria virginiana	0–45	–
	blue-eyed grass	SISYR	Sisyrinchium	0–45	–
	Macoun's buttercup	RAMA2	Ranunculus macounii	0–45	–

Table 10. Community 1.2 plant community composition

Group	Common name	Symbol	Scientific name	Annual production (lb/acre)	Foliar cover (%)
Grass/Grasslike
1	Grass-likes			1225–1575
	spikerush	ELEOC	Eleocharis	350–700	–
	shortbeak sedge	CABR10	Carex brevior	175–525	–
	green bulrush	SCAT2	Scirpus atrovirens	35–420	–
	mountain rush	JUARL	Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis	175–350	–
	flatsedge	CYPER	Cyperus	175–350	–
	clustered field sedge	CAPR5	Carex praegracilis	175–350	–
	Grass-like (not a true grass)	2GL	Grass-like (not a true grass)	35–245	–
	Sartwell's sedge	CASA8	Carex sartwellii	35–175	–
	woolly sedge	CAPE42	Carex pellita	70–175	–
2	Tall Warm-Season Grasses			175–525
	prairie cordgrass	SPPE	Spartina pectinata	175–525	–
	spiked muhly	MUGL3	Muhlenbergia glomerata	0–175	–
	switchgrass	PAVI2	Panicum virgatum	0–70	–
3	Tall Cool-Season Grasses			70–525
	reed canarygrass	PHAR3	Phalaris arundinacea	70–350	–
	northern reedgrass	CASTI3	Calamagrostis stricta ssp. inexpansa	0–175	–
	slimstem reedgrass	CASTS5	Calamagrostis stricta ssp. stricta	0–70	–
	bluejoint	CACA4	Calamagrostis canadensis	0–70	–
4	Cool-Season Bunchgrasses			175–525
	fowl bluegrass	POPA2	Poa palustris	175–350	–
	plains bluegrass	POAR3	Poa arida	0–280	–
	foxtail barley	HOJU	Hordeum jubatum	35–175	–
5	Wheatgrass			70–245
	western wheatgrass	PASM	Pascopyrum smithii	70–245	–
	slender wheatgrass	ELTR7	Elymus trachycaulus	0–105	–
6	Other Native Grasses			70–280
	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	2GRAM	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	0–175	–
	mat muhly	MURI	Muhlenbergia richardsonis	70–175	–
7	Non-Native Grasses			175–525
	creeping meadow foxtail	ALAR	Alopecurus arundinaceus	0–350	–
	quackgrass	ELRE4	Elymus repens	0–350	–
	Kentucky bluegrass	POPR	Poa pratensis	70–350	–
Forb
8	Forbs			175–350
	giant goldenrod	SOGI	Solidago gigantea	0–105	–
	goldenrod	SOLID	Solidago	35–105	–
	white panicle aster	SYLA6	Symphyotrichum lanceolatum	35–105	–
	Forb, native	2FN	Forb, native	35–105	–
	American licorice	GLLE3	Glycyrrhiza lepidota	0–105	–
	Flodman's thistle	CIFL	Cirsium flodmanii	35–105	–
	cinquefoil	POTEN	Potentilla	35–105	–
	western dock	RUAQ	Rumex aquaticus	0–70	–
	mint	MENTH	Mentha	0–70	–
	curlytop knotweed	POLA4	Polygonum lapathifolium	0–70	–
	Pennsylvania smartweed	POPE2	Polygonum pensylvanicum	35–70	–
	Forb, introduced	2FI	Forb, introduced	0–70	–
	Indianhemp	APCA	Apocynum cannabinum	0–70	–
	New England aster	SYNO2	Symphyotrichum novae-angliae	35–70	–
	Canadian anemone	ANCA8	Anemone canadensis	0–35	–
	Rydberg's sunflower	HENUR	Helianthus nuttallii ssp. rydbergii	0–35	–
	blazing star	LIATR	Liatris	0–35	–
	wood lily	LIPH	Lilium philadelphicum	0–35	–
	Illinois bundleflower	DEIL	Desmanthus illinoensis	0–35	–
	smooth horsetail	EQLA	Equisetum laevigatum	0–35	–
	blackeyed Susan	RUHI2	Rudbeckia hirta	0–35	–
	blue-eyed grass	SISYR	Sisyrinchium	0–35	–
	Macoun's buttercup	RAMA2	Ranunculus macounii	0–35	–

Table 11. Community 2.1 plant community composition

Group	Common name	Symbol	Scientific name	Annual production (lb/acre)	Foliar cover (%)
Grass/Grasslike
1	Grass-likes			700–1050
	woolly sedge	CAPE42	Carex pellita	70–350	–
	clustered field sedge	CAPR5	Carex praegracilis	70–350	–
	Sartwell's sedge	CASA8	Carex sartwellii	70–350	–
	spikerush	ELEOC	Eleocharis	70–350	–
	mountain rush	JUARL	Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis	35–175	–
	green bulrush	SCAT2	Scirpus atrovirens	0–175	–
	flatsedge	CYPER	Cyperus	35–175	–
	Grass-like (not a true grass)	2GL	Grass-like (not a true grass)	35–175	–
	shortbeak sedge	CABR10	Carex brevior	35–175	–
2	Tall Warm-Season Grasses			70–350
	prairie cordgrass	SPPE	Spartina pectinata	70–350	–
3	Tall Cool-Season Grasses			700–1225
	reed canarygrass	PHAR3	Phalaris arundinacea	700–1225	–
	northern reedgrass	CASTI3	Calamagrostis stricta ssp. inexpansa	35–175	–
	slimstem reedgrass	CASTS5	Calamagrostis stricta ssp. stricta	0–35	–
	bluejoint	CACA4	Calamagrostis canadensis	0–35	–
4	Cool-Season Bunchgrasses			175–525
	fowl bluegrass	POPA2	Poa palustris	70–525	–
	foxtail barley	HOJU	Hordeum jubatum	35–175	–
	plains bluegrass	POAR3	Poa arida	0–175	–
5	Wheatgrass			70–350
	western wheatgrass	PASM	Pascopyrum smithii	70–350	–
6	Other Native Grasses			0–175
	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	2GRAM	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	0–175	–
	mat muhly	MURI	Muhlenbergia richardsonis	0–70	–
7	Non-Native Grasses			350–1225
	quackgrass	ELRE4	Elymus repens	0–1050	–
	creeping meadow foxtail	ALAR	Alopecurus arundinaceus	0–875	–
	Kentucky bluegrass	POPR	Poa pratensis	70–525	–
Forb
8	Forbs			70–175
	American licorice	GLLE3	Glycyrrhiza lepidota	0–70	–
	giant goldenrod	SOGI	Solidago gigantea	0–70	–
	goldenrod	SOLID	Solidago	0–70	–
	Forb, introduced	2FI	Forb, introduced	0–70	–
	Forb, native	2FN	Forb, native	0–70	–
	Indianhemp	APCA	Apocynum cannabinum	0–70	–
	Flodman's thistle	CIFL	Cirsium flodmanii	0–70	–
	curlytop knotweed	POLA4	Polygonum lapathifolium	0–70	–
	Pennsylvania smartweed	POPE2	Polygonum pensylvanicum	0–70	–
	cinquefoil	POTEN	Potentilla	0–70	–
	western dock	RUAQ	Rumex aquaticus	0–35	–
	smooth horsetail	EQLA	Equisetum laevigatum	0–35	–
	white panicle aster	SYLA6	Symphyotrichum lanceolatum	0–35	–
	New England aster	SYNO2	Symphyotrichum novae-angliae	0–35	–
	mint	MENTH	Mentha	0–35	–

Table 12. Community 2.2 plant community composition

Group	Common name	Symbol	Scientific name	Annual production (lb/acre)	Foliar cover (%)
Grass/Grasslike
1	Grass-likes			625–875
	spikerush	ELEOC	Eleocharis	125–625	–
	mountain rush	JUARL	Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis	250–500	–
	clustered field sedge	CAPR5	Carex praegracilis	50–250	–
	flatsedge	CYPER	Cyperus	50–250	–
	shortbeak sedge	CABR10	Carex brevior	25–200	–
	woolly sedge	CAPE42	Carex pellita	0–50	–
	Grass-like (not a true grass)	2GL	Grass-like (not a true grass)	0–50	–
	Sartwell's sedge	CASA8	Carex sartwellii	25–50	–
	green bulrush	SCAT2	Scirpus atrovirens	0–50	–
2	Tall Warm-Season Grasses			0–125
	prairie cordgrass	SPPE	Spartina pectinata	0–125	–
3	Tall Cool-Season Grasses			0–250
	reed canarygrass	PHAR3	Phalaris arundinacea	0–250	–
4	Cool-Season Bunchgrasses			250–750
	foxtail barley	HOJU	Hordeum jubatum	125–750	–
	fowl bluegrass	POPA2	Poa palustris	125–375	–
	plains bluegrass	POAR3	Poa arida	0–75	–
5	Wheatgrass			0–125
	western wheatgrass	PASM	Pascopyrum smithii	0–125	–
6	Other Native Grasses			25–250
	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	2GRAM	Graminoid (grass or grass-like)	0–175	–
	mat muhly	MURI	Muhlenbergia richardsonis	25–125	–
7	Non-Native Grasses			375–1125
	creeping meadow foxtail	ALAR	Alopecurus arundinaceus	0–875	–
	quackgrass	ELRE4	Elymus repens	125–875	–
	Kentucky bluegrass	POPR	Poa pratensis	125–750	–
Forb
8	Forbs			125–375
	Forb, introduced	2FI	Forb, introduced	25–200	–
	Forb, native	2FN	Forb, native	25–100	–
	Pennsylvania smartweed	POPE2	Polygonum pensylvanicum	25–100	–
	goldenrod	SOLID	Solidago	25–100	–
	white panicle aster	SYLA6	Symphyotrichum lanceolatum	25–75	–
	New England aster	SYNO2	Symphyotrichum novae-angliae	25–75	–
	giant goldenrod	SOGI	Solidago gigantea	0–75	–
	Indianhemp	APCA	Apocynum cannabinum	0–75	–
	Flodman's thistle	CIFL	Cirsium flodmanii	25–75	–
	curlytop knotweed	POLA4	Polygonum lapathifolium	0–50	–
	cinquefoil	POTEN	Potentilla	0–50	–
	western dock	RUAQ	Rumex aquaticus	0–25	–
	smooth horsetail	EQLA	Equisetum laevigatum	0–25	–
	American licorice	GLLE3	Glycyrrhiza lepidota	0–25	–

Interpretations

Animal community

Animal Community – Grazing Interpretations
The following table lists annual, suggested initial stocking rates with average growing conditions. These are conservative estimates that should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of conservation planning. Often, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ES description). Because of this, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. More accurate carrying capacity estimates should eventually be calculated using the following stocking rate information along with animal preference data and actual stocking records, particularly when grazers other than cattle are involved. With consultation of the land manager, more intensive grazing management may result in improved harvest efficiencies and increased carrying capacity.

Prairie Cordgrass/Sedge/Northern Reedgrass (1.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 4,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 1.23

Fowl Bluegrass/Spikerush/Baltic Rush/Forbs (1.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 3,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.96

Reed Canarygrass/Sedge/Invasive Plants/Prairie Cordgrass (2.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 3,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.96

Quackgrass/Kentucky Bluegrass/Foxtail Barley/Invasive Plants (2.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.69

Annual/Pioneer, Non-Native Perennial (2.3)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1,800
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.49

*Based on 912 lbs./acre (air-dry weight) per Animal Unit Month (AUM), and on 25 percent harvest efficiency (refer to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) National Range and Pasture Handbook).

Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock will likely be lacking protein to meet livestock requirements and added protein will allow ruminants to better utilize the energy stored in grazed plant materials. A forage quality test (either directly or through fecal sampling) should be used to determine the level of supplementation needed.

Hydrological functions

Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic group C and D. Infiltration is very slow and runoff potential for this site is negligible. In many cases, areas with greater than 75 percent ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. Areas where ground cover is less than 50 percent have the greatest potential to have reduced infiltration and higher runoff (refer to Section 4, NRCS National Engineering Handbook for runoff quantities and hydrologic curves).

Recreational uses

This site provides hunting, hiking, photography, bird watching, and other opportunities. The wide varieties of plants that bloom from spring until fall have an esthetic value that appeals to visitors.

Wood products

No appreciable wood products are typically present on this site.

Other products

Seed harvest of native plant species can provide additional income on this site.

Other information

Ecological Site Correlation Issues and Questions:

• Reference and alternative states within the state and transition model are may not be fully documented and may require additional field sampling for refinement.

Supporting information

Inventory data references

Information presented here has been derived from NRCS clipping data and other inventory data. Field observations from range-trained personnel were also used. Those involved in developing this site include: Stan Boltz, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; and Bruce Kunze, Soil Scientist, NRCS.

Data Source Sample Period State County
SCS-Range-417 (0247046059) 10/20/1970 SD Hand
SCS-Range-417 (0147046059) 10/20/1972 SD Hand

Other references

Cleland, D.T., J.A. Freeouf, J.E. Keys, G.J. Nowacki, C. Carpenter, and W.H. McNab. 2007. Ecological Subregions: Sections and Subsections of the Coterminous United States. USDA Forest Service, General Technical Report WO-76. Washington, DC. 92 pps.

Gilbert, M. C., Whited, P. M., Clairain Jr, E. J., & Smith, R. D. (2006). A Regional Guidebook for Applying the Hydrogeomorphic Approach to Assessing Wetland Functions of Prairie Potholes. Washington DC.

Samson, F. B., & Knopf, F. L. (1996). Prairie Conservation Preserving North America's Most Endagered Ecosystem. Washington D.C.: Island Press.

Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Official Soil Series Descriptions. Available online. Accessed March 2018.
United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 2003. National Range and Pasture Handbook, Revision 1. Grazing Lands Technology Institute. 214 pps.

United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 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. 672pps.

USDA, NRCS. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building A, Fort Collins, CO 80526. (http://soils.usda.gov/technical/nasis/)

USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 27 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA]. 2013. Level III and Level IV Ecoregions of the Continental United States. Corvallis, OR, U.S. EPA, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, map scale 1:3,000,000. Available at http://www.epa.gov/eco-research/level-iii-and-iv-ecoregions- continental-united-states. (Accessed 1 March 2018).

Contributors

Stan Boltz

Approval

Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 11/15/2024

Acknowledgments

Contact for Lead Authors: Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), Redfield Soil Survey Office Redfield, SD; Lance Howe (Lance.Howe@usda.gov), Soil Survey Office Leader, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD; and Steve Winter (Steven.Winter@usda.gov), Soil Scientist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD

Additional Information Acknowledgment: Jason Hermann (Jason.Hermann@usda.gov), Area Rangeland Management Specialist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD.

This Provisional Ecological Site concept has passed both Quality Control and Quality Assurance processes. Quality Assurance was approved by David Kraft, NRCS Regional Ecologist as of 11/12/2020.

Non-discrimination Statement
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Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, available online and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632- 9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

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)	Stan Boltz, Mitch Faulkner, Shane Deranleau
Contact for lead author	Stan Boltz, stanley.boltz@sd.usda.gov, 605-352-1236
Date	03/15/2011
Approved by	Suzanne Mayne-Kinney
Approval date
Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on	Annual Production

Indicators

Number and extent of rills:
Rills should not be present.
Presence of water flow patterns:
Barely observable or not present.
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Essentially non-existent.
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground less than 5 percent and pathces less than two inches in diameter.
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present.
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None present.
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Little to no plant litter movement. Plant litter remains in place and is not moved by erosional forces.
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Soil aggregate stability normally a 6 rating. Typically high root content and organic matter in the soil surface. Soil surface is very resistant to erosion.
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Structure is weak, thin, and platy, parting to granular, and mollic (higher organic matter) colors of A-horizon down to about 10 inches.
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Healthy, deep-rooted native grass and grass-like species enhance infiltration and reduce runoff.
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
No compaction layer should be present.
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:
Grass-like species > tall, warm-season grasses >

Sub-dominant:
Tall, cool-season grasses > forbs >

Other:
Mid, cool-season grasses > wheatgrasses

Additional:
Other native grasses occur in other functional groups.
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Very little to no evidence of decadence or mortality.
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
85-90 percent plant litter cover, roughly 1 to 2 inches in depth. Litter cover is in contact with the soil surface.
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
4,500 pounds/acre (air-dry basis)
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:
Refer to State and local Noxious Weed List; also reed canarygrass.
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
Perennial grass and grass-like species have vigorous rhizomes and/or tillers.

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Ecosystem states

1. Reference State

2. Invaded State

3. Crop Production State

T1A & T1B	-	Non-use, no fire, heavy continuous grazing
T1C	-	Tillage, artificial drainage
T2A & T2B	-	Long term prescribed grazing, seeding
T2C	-	Tillage, artificial drainage
T3A & T3B	-	Seeding, wetland restoration, cropped and abandoned