Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Ecological site R053CY006SD
Limy Subirrigated
Last updated: 1/22/2024
Accessed: 11/13/2024
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.
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 are 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).
Ecological site concept
The Limy Subirrigated ecological site typically occurs along the edges of drainageways or closed depressions. Soils are somewhat poorly drained which have a water table within 2 to 5 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August. Soils will effervesce with hydrochloric acid at or near the surface. Slopes typically range from 0 to 3 percent.
Vegetation in the Reference State is dominated by warm season grasses such as little bluestem, big bluestem, and needlegrasses. Forbs include cudweed sagewort, goldenrods, and western yarrow. Non-native species such as Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, and quackgrass may invade this site due to a change in disturbance regime.
Associated sites
| 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 Onita and Prosper, but other series are included. |
|---|---|
| R053CY003SD |
Subirrigated These sites occur in drainageways. Soils are somewhat poorly drained which have a water table within 2 to 5 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August. The central concept soil series is Crossplain, but other series are included. |
| R053CY004SD |
Wet Meadow These sites occur in a basin or closed depression. Soils are poorly drained and the site ponds water for 4 to 8 weeks in the spring of the year or after a heavy rain. The central concept soil series is Tetonka, but other series are included. |
Similar sites
| R053CY003SD |
Subirrigated The Subirrigated site occurs in drainageways. Soils are somewhat poorly drained which have a water table within 2 to 5 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August. (more big bluestem, less little bluestem; higher production) |
|---|
Table 1. Dominant plant species
| Tree |
Not specified |
|---|---|
| Shrub |
Not specified |
| Herbaceous |
(1) Schizachyrium scoparium |
Physiographic features
This site occurs on nearly level lowlands or pothole rims.
Figure 2. Distribution map
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
| Landforms |
(1)
Flood plain
(2) Pothole (3) Swale |
|---|---|
| Flooding frequency | None |
| Ponding frequency | None |
| Elevation | 1,300 – 2,300 ft |
| Slope | 1% |
| Water table depth | 33 – 48 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 |
Figure 3. Monthly precipitation range
Figure 4. Monthly minimum temperature range
Figure 5. Monthly maximum temperature range
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
Influencing water features
This site has a persistent water table which strongly influences the production of the site but does not influence the species present greatly. Most of the dominant species are typical upland plants.
Soil features
These are very deep, moderately well-drained, coarse to medium textured soils. These soils have a calcareous subsoil. Permeability is moderately slow and available water capacity is moderate to high. Salinity is none to slight. Soils on this site are somewhat susceptible to wind erosion. This site is on flats, potholes, and swales on outwash plains and floodplains. Slope ranges from zero to one percent. This site should show slight to no evidence of rills, wind scoured areas, or pedestalled plants. No water flow paths are seen on this site. The soil surface is stable and intact. Subsurface soil layers are nonrestrictive to water movement and root penetration. The central concept soil series for this site is Davison, but other series are included.
Access Web Soil Survey (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/) for specific local soils information.
Table 4. Representative soil features
| Surface texture |
(1) Loam |
|---|---|
| Family particle size |
(1) Loamy |
| Drainage class | Moderately well drained |
| Permeability class | Moderately slow |
| Soil depth | 80 in |
| Surface fragment cover <=3" | Not specified |
| Surface fragment cover >3" | Not specified |
| Available water capacity (0-40in) |
7 in |
| Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-40in) |
5 – 20% |
| Electrical conductivity (0-40in) |
4 mmhos/cm |
| Sodium adsorption ratio (0-40in) |
2 |
| Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in) |
6.6 – 8.4 |
| 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 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 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass 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.
The presence of “free lime” calcium carbonate (CaCO3) distinguishes the Limy Subirrigated ecological site (ES) from the Subirrigated ecological site. Plants such as big bluestem, little bluestem, and needlegrasses have a high tolerance for calcium carbonate, while species such as switchgrass have a very low tolerance. The result is an expression of big bluestem, little bluestem, and needlegrasses with a decrease in switchgrass and smooth bromegrass compared to the Subirrigated ES. Carbonates near the surface of the soil tightly bind micronutrients making them less available to plants and creating plant-level deficiencies of some nutrients. As a consequence, native species, which are better adapted to environment stress tolerance, continue to occupy the site and exotic species that exploit deep and nutrient-rich soils (such as smooth bromegrass) are less-likely to invade.
This ecological site (ES) has been grazed by domestic livestock since they have been introduced into the area. The introduction of domestic livestock and the use of fencing and reliable water sources have changed the ecological dynamics of this site. Heavy continuous grazing without adequate recovery periods following each grazing occurrence over several years causes this site to depart from the interpretive plant community. Species such as western wheatgrass, little bluestem and sideoats grama, will initially increase. Warm season grasses such as Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) and big bluestem will decrease in frequency and production. Heavy continuous grazing causes Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) to increase and eventually develop into a sod condition. Extended periods of non-use and no fire will result in a plant community having high litter levels, which favors an increase in Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis).
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 and 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.
The pie charts may not add up to 100% due to rounding errors.
State and transition model
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
| T1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing, non-use, no fire, invasion |
|---|---|---|
| T1B | - | Tillage |
| T2A & B | - | Non-use and/or no surface fire, heavy continuous grazing |
| T2C | - | Tillage |
| T3A & B | - | Long-term prescribed grazing, prescribed burning, seeding |
| T3C | - | Tillage |
| T4A | - | Seeding |
| T4B & C | - | Seeding, cropping followed by abandonment |
State 1 submodel, plant communities
| 1.1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2A | - | Prescribed grazing with recovery periods, prescribed burning |
State 2 submodel, plant communities
| 2.1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing |
|---|---|---|
| 2.2A | - | Prescribed grazing |
State 3 submodel, plant communities
| 3.1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing |
|---|---|---|
| 3.2A | - | Prescribed grazing |
| 3.3A | - | Time w/wo disturbances |
State 4 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference State
The Limy Subirrigated site typically occurs along the edges of drainageways or closed depressions. Soils are somewhat poorly drained which have a water table within 2 to 5 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August. Soils will effervesce with hydrochloric acid at or near the surface. The central concept soil series is Davison, but other series are included. This state represents the natural range of variability that dominates the dynamics of this ES. This state is typically dominated by warm-season grasses, with lesser amounts of cool-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. Mid- and tall stature grass species could have declined with a corresponding increase in short stature warm-season grasses and cool-season grass-like species occurring. Presently, 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. Today, a similar state, the Native/Invaded State (State 2) can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing or prescribed burning and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. These sites are differentiated by the presence of exotic species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass. On most Limy Subirrigated ESs within the MLRA, these species have invaded and are now present. It is likely that attaining the reference state as described here (without the presence of exotic herbaceous species) is not possible.
Community 1.1
Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass
Interpretations are based primarily on the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass Plant Community Phase (this is also considered to be reference). This plant community evolved with grazing by large herbivores, frequent surface fires, and periodic flooding events and is suited for grazing by domestic livestock. This plant community can be found on areas that are grazed and where the grazed plants receive adequate periods of rest during the growing season in order to recover. The potential vegetation was about 85 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. The community was dominated by tall and mid-warm-season grasses and mid-cool-season grasses. The major grasses included little bluestem, big bluestem, green needlegrass, and porcupine grass (Hesperostipa spartea). These forages have a high tolerance of calcium carbonate present in the soil on this ES. Other grass or grass-like species included sideoats grama, western wheatgrass, slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus), and sedge (Carex). A variety of native forbs were present, but only in slight amounts. This plant community was resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allowed for high drought tolerance. This was a sustainable plant community in regards to site and soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity. This plant community was resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allowed for high drought tolerance.
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 | 2950 | 3560 | 4100 |
| Forb | 175 | 300 | 475 |
| Shrub/Vine | 75 | 140 | 225 |
| Total | 3200 | 4000 | 4800 |
Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5304, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant.. Warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant..
| 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 | 3 | 7 | 17 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Community 1.2
Western Wheatgrass-Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama
This plant community evolved under heavy continuous grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community was made up of approximately 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses and grass-likes included western wheatgrass, little bluestem, sideoats grama, and blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis). Other grasses and grass-likes include big bluestem, tall dropseed (Sporobolus compositus), green needlegrass, and porcupine grass. Forbs commonly found in this plant community included cudweed sagewort (Artemisia ludoviciana), goldenrod (Oligoneuron), and western yarrow (Achillea millefolium). This plant community had similar plant composition to the 2.2 Western Wheatgrass-Little Bluestem-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase. The main difference is that this plant community phase did not have the presence of nonnative invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass. When compared to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass Plant Community Phase, blue grama, sideoats grama, and western wheatgrass increased. Little Bluestem and big bluestem decreased, and production of all tall grasses was reduced. This plant community was moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present were well adapted to grazing; however, species composition could be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component was intact, it tended to be resilient if the disturbance was not long-term. Most of the components of the ecological processes would have been functioning at optimum levels. However, the vigor and reproductive capability of the tall warm-season grasses would have been reduced due to grazing pressure or a combination of stressors. A reduction of this dominant functional group allowed for an increase in shorter-statured (and shallower rooted) species.
Figure 13. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5302, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, cool-season dominant, warm-season subdominant.. Cool-season dominant, warm-season subdominant..
| 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 | 3 | 10 | 23 | 34 | 15 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 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 Western Wheatgrass-Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1
Prescribed grazing, or prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels and frequencies or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest would have converted this plant community to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass Plant Community Phase.
State 2
Native/Invaded State
This state is very similar to the Reference State and represents the more common range of variability that exists with higher levels of grazing management but in the absence of periodic fire due to fire suppression. This state is dominated by warm-season grasses, but invasive cool-season sodgrasses are now present in all community phases of the state. Taller warm-season species can decline and a corresponding increase in short statured grass will occur. It can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and prescribed burning, and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest.
Community 2.1
Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass
This plant community phase is similar to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass Plant Community Phase, but it also contains minor amounts of nonnative invasive grass species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass (up to about 10 percent by air-dry weight). The potential vegetation is about 85 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. The community is dominated by tall and mid- warm-season grasses and cool-season grasses. The major grasses include little bluestem, big bluestem, green needlegrass, and porcupine grass. Other grass or grass-like species include sideoats grama, western wheatgrass, slender wheatgrass, and sedge. A variety of native perennial forbs are present but only in minor amounts. This is likely a naturally nitrogen deficient plant community, but perhaps less so than the Reference State. A change in the nutrient cycle and biological activity on the ES possibly due to the introduction of nonnative species may be causative factor leading to the eventual dominance of cool-season introduced grasses in the Invaded State. This plant community is resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allows for high drought tolerance. This is a sustainable plant community in regards to site and soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 14. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5309, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant.. Warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant, 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 | 3 | 10 | 16 | 22 | 23 | 14 | 7 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
Community 2.2
Western Wheatgrass-Little Bluestem-Kentucky Bluegrass
This plant community is a result of heavy continuous grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 85 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. Nonnative grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass tend to increase and may begin to dominate this community phase. In early stages of this community phase, little bluestem will initially increase along with the increase along with the increase of introduced cool-season grasses. In many situations with inadequate recovery periods, the little bluestem will also begin to decline over time, facilitating the change to the Invaded State (State 3). Dominant grasses and grass-likes include western wheatgrass, little bluestem, sideoats grama, blue grama, Kentucky bluegrass, and sedges (Cyperaceae). Other grasses and grass-likes included big bluestem, tall dropseed, green needlegrass, porcupine grass, rush, (Juncus) and Canada wildrye (Elymus canadensis). Forbs commonly found in this plant community included cudweed sagewort, goldenrod, and western yarrow. Western snowberry and prairie rose are the principal shrubs. When compared to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass Plant Community Phase, sideoats grama and little bluestem increased. Production of tall warm-season grasses was reduced. This plant community is moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component is intact, it tends to be resilient if the disturbance is not long-term. Most of the components of the ecological processes are functioning at optimum levels. However, the vigor and reproductive capability of the tall warm-season grasses are reduced due to grazing pressure or a combination of stressors. A reduction of this dominant functional group allows for an increase in shorter-statured (and shallower rooted) species. The introduction of nonnative invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass results in alterations to the soil profile. Organic matter levels tend to decrease and begin to be concentrated more in the surface layers and the structure will begin to be modified. These changes favor the shallow-rooted species and hasten their eventual dominance if steps are not taken to reduce these species. This community phase is approaching the threshold which would readily lead to the Invaded State. If management is significantly altered, this community phase can still be reverted back to the 2.1 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem Green Needlegrass Plant Community Phase.
Figure 15. 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 | 1845 | 2523 | 3120 |
| Forb | 130 | 290 | 520 |
| Shrub/Vine | 25 | 87 | 160 |
| Total | 2000 | 2900 | 3800 |
Figure 16. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5302, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, cool-season dominant, warm-season subdominant.. Cool-season dominant, warm-season subdominant..
| 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 | 3 | 10 | 23 | 34 | 15 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
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 Western Wheatgrass-Little Bluestem-Kentucky Bluegrass 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 Little Bluestem-Big Bluestem-Green Needlegrass Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Grazing |
|---|
State 3
Invaded State
This state is a result of encroachment mainly by invasive introduced cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass. Kentucky bluegrass has a high tolerance for calcium carbonates and a fast vegetative response to disturbance. Plant litter accumulation tends to favor the more shade tolerant introduced grass species. The nutrient cycle is also impaired, and the result is typically a higher level of nitrogen which also favors the introduced species. Increasing plant litter decreases the amount of sunlight reaching plant crowns thereby shifting competitive advantage to shade tolerant introduced grass species. The ecological processes are not functioning, especially the biotic processes and the hydrologic functions. The introduced cool-season grasses cause reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Preliminary studies would tend to indicate this threshold may exist when Kentucky bluegrass exceeds 30 percent of the plant community and native grasses represent less than 40 percent of the plant community composition. The opportunity for high intensity spring burns is severely reduced by early greenup and increased moisture and humidity at the soil surface, and grazing pressure cannot cause a reduction in sodgrass dominance. Production is limited to the sod forming species. Infiltration continues to decrease and runoff increases and energy capture into the system is restricted to early season low producing species. Nutrient cycling is limited by root depth of the dominant species.
Community 3.1
Kentucky Bluegrass-Smooth Bromegrass-Little Bluestem
This plant community phase is a result of extended periods of nonuse and no fire or occasionally light levels of grazing over several years. It is characterized by dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass with lesser amounts of little bluestem. Big bluestem and other native warm- and cool-season native grass species are typically still present, but much reduced vigor and production. Common forbs include American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), cudweed sagewort, western yarrow, and silverleaf scurfpea (Pediomelum argophyllum). The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A thick duff layer also accumulates at or above the soil surface and eventually a thatch-mat layer may develop. Nutrient cycling is greatly reduced and native plants have great difficulty becoming established. When dominated by smooth bromegrass, infiltration is moderately reduced and runoff is moderate. Production can be equal to or higher than the interpretive plant community. However, when dominated by Kentucky bluegrass, infiltration is greatly reduced and runoff is high. Production in this case will likely be significantly less. In either case, the period that palatability is high is relatively short, as these cool-season species mature rapidly. Energy capture is also reduced. The dominance of these introduced species has been shown to alter the biotic component of the soil, as well as organic matter levels and eventually the soil structure. These alterations perpetuate the dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass and tend to make establishment of native species extremely difficult. This plant community is somewhat resistant to change without a combination of prescribed grazing and prescribed burning. The combination of both grazing and fire is most effective in moving this plant community towards the Native/Invaded State (State 2). Once this plant community is reached, time and external resources will be needed to see any immediate recovery in diversity.
Figure 17. 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 | 2580 | 3115 | 3695 |
| Forb | 155 | 263 | 410 |
| Shrub/Vine | 65 | 122 | 195 |
| Total | 2800 | 3500 | 4300 |
Figure 18. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5302, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, cool-season dominant, warm-season subdominant.. Cool-season dominant, warm-season subdominant..
| 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 | 3 | 10 | 23 | 34 | 15 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
Community 3.2
Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Forbs
This plant community phase is a result of heavy, continuous seasonal grazing or heavy, continuous season-long grazing. It is characterized by a dominance of Kentucky bluegrass with lesser amounts of quackgrass (Elymus repens) and forbs. Some native and non-native forbs can increase in production and cover as well. Common forbs include cudweed sagewort, goldenrod, aster (Aster), Cuman ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya), western yarrow, and a variety of introduced forbs. The longer this community phase exists the more resistant and resilient it becomes. The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A relatively thick duff layer can sometimes accumulate at or above the soil surface, and eventually a thatch-mat layer may develop at the surface as well. Nutrient cycling is greatly reduced and native plants have great difficulty becoming established. Infiltration is greatly reduced and runoff is high. Production is limited to the sod forming species and will be significantly reduced when compared to the interpretive plant community. The period that palatability is high is relatively short as Kentucky bluegrass matures rapidly. Energy capture into this system is limited to one early growing species. Runoff increases and is the highest of any plant community phase on this ES. Biological activity in the soil is likely reduced significantly in this phase.
Figure 19. 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 | 1410 | 1837 | 2205 |
| Forb | 190 | 330 | 525 |
| Shrub/Vine | 0 | 33 | 70 |
| Total | 1600 | 2200 | 2800 |
Figure 20. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD5301, Southern Dark Brown Glaciated Plains, cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant..
| 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 | 4 | 12 | 25 | 36 | 10 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
Community 3.3
Annual Pioneer-Perennial Pioneer
This plant community developed under continuous heavy grazing or other excessive disturbances. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 40 to 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 20 to 60 percent forbs, and 0 to 5 percent shrubs. The species present in this phase are highly variable, but often include nonnative invasive or early seral species. The dominant vegetation includes pioneer annual or perennial grasses, forbs, invaders, and early successional biennial and perennial species. Grasses may include foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli), quackgrass, plains bluegrass (Poa arida), Kentucky bluegrass, Baltic rush (Juncus balticus), and sedges. The dominant forbs will likely include Cuman ragweed, Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), and other early successional species. Plant diversity is low (plant richness may be high, but areas are often dominated by a few species). The ecological processes are difficult to restore because of the loss of plant diversity and overall soil disturbance. Soil erosion is potentially very high because of the bare ground and shallow rooted herbaceous plant community. Water runoff will increase and infiltration will decrease due to animal related soil compaction and loss of root mass due to low plant diversity and vigor. This plant community will require significant economic inputs and time to move towards another plant community. This movement is highly variable in its succession. This is due to the loss of diversity (including the loss of the seed bank), within the existing plant community, and the plant communities on adjacent sites.
Pathway 3.1A
Community 3.1 to 3.2
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 and 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, and density will shift this community to the 3.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Forbs Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 3.2A
Community 3.2 to 3.1
Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest may convert this plant community to the 3.1 Kentucky Bluegrass-Smooth Bromegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 3.3A
Community 3.3 to 3.2
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 3.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Forbs Plant Community Phase.
State 4
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 4.1
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
State 1 to 2
Non-use and no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years) causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density, or heavy continuous grazing or invasion of non-native plant species will likely lead this state over a threshold resulting in the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Transition T1B
State 1 to 4
Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 4).
Transition T2A & B
State 2 to 3
T2A - Non-use or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years) causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density, will likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 3.1 Kentucky Bluegrass-Smooth Bromegrass-Little Bluestem Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3). T2B – 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 likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 3.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Forbs Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3). Grazing repeatedly in the early growing season can expedite this shift by causing mechanical disturbance due to trampling.
Transition T2C
State 2 to 4
Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 4).
Restoration pathway T3A & B
State 3 to 2
T3A - 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 3.1 Kentucky Bluegrass-Smooth Bromegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2). T3B - 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 Invaded State (State 3) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Grazing |
|---|
Transition T3C
State 3 to 4
Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Annual Crops Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 4).
Restoration pathway T4A
State 4 to 2
Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 4) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Restoration pathway T4B & C
State 4 to 3
T4B – Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 4) over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 3). T4C – Cropping followed by abandonment may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the 3.3 Annual Pioneer-Perennial Pioneer Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3).
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 | Mid Warm-Season Grasses | 800–1600 | ||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 600–1200 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 80–400 | – | ||
| 2 | Tall Warm-Season Grasses | 400–1000 | ||||
| big bluestem | ANGE | Andropogon gerardii | 200–800 | – | ||
| switchgrass | PAVI2 | Panicum virgatum | 40–400 | – | ||
| Indiangrass | SONU2 | Sorghastrum nutans | 80–400 | – | ||
| composite dropseed | SPCOC2 | Sporobolus compositus var. compositus | 0–200 | – | ||
| 3 | Cool-Season Bunchgrasses | 200–600 | ||||
| porcupinegrass | HESP11 | Hesperostipa spartea | 80–600 | – | ||
| green needlegrass | NAVI4 | Nassella viridula | 80–600 | – | ||
| Canada wildrye | ELCA4 | Elymus canadensis | 40–200 | – | ||
| 4 | Wheatgrass | 200–400 | ||||
| slender wheatgrass | ELTR7 | Elymus trachycaulus | 80–400 | – | ||
| western wheatgrass | PASM | Pascopyrum smithii | 80–400 | – | ||
| 6 | Other Native Grasses | 40–200 | ||||
| Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 2GRAM | Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 0–200 | – | ||
| Scribner's rosette grass | DIOLS | Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum | 40–120 | – | ||
| 7 | Grass-likes | 80–400 | ||||
| sedge | CAREX | Carex | 80–320 | – | ||
| rush | JUNCU | Juncus | 0–80 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–80 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 5 | Short Warm-Season Grasses | 80–320 | ||||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 40–200 | – | ||
| witchgrass | PACA6 | Panicum capillare | 40–120 | – | ||
| saltgrass | DISP | Distichlis spicata | 0–80 | – | ||
| 9 | Shrubs | 80–200 | ||||
| snowberry | SYMPH | Symphoricarpos | 40–120 | – | ||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–80 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 40–80 | – | ||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 8 | Forbs | 200–400 | ||||
| Forb, native | 2FN | Forb, native | 40–120 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 40–80 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 40–80 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 40–80 | – | ||
| aster | ASTER | Aster | 40–80 | – | ||
| American licorice | GLLE3 | Glycyrrhiza lepidota | 40–80 | – | ||
| sunflower | HELIA3 | Helianthus | 0–80 | – | ||
| Maximilian sunflower | HEMA2 | Helianthus maximiliani | 40–80 | – | ||
| dotted blazing star | LIPU | Liatris punctata | 40–80 | – | ||
| western marbleseed | ONBEO | Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale | 0–80 | – | ||
| silverleaf Indian breadroot | PEAR6 | Pediomelum argophyllum | 40–80 | – | ||
| cinquefoil | POTEN | Potentilla | 40–80 | – | ||
| upright prairie coneflower | RACO3 | Ratibida columnifera | 40–80 | – | ||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 40–80 | – | ||
| white heath aster | SYER | Symphyotrichum ericoides | 40–80 | – | ||
| Nuttall's violet | VINU2 | Viola nuttallii | 0–40 | – | ||
| meadow zizia | ZIAP | Zizia aptera | 0–40 | – | ||
| ragwort | SENEC | Senecio | 0–40 | – | ||
| blue lettuce | LATA | Lactuca tatarica | 0–40 | – | ||
| Flodman's thistle | CIFL | Cirsium flodmanii | 0–40 | – | ||
| smooth horsetail | EQLA | Equisetum laevigatum | 0–40 | – | ||
| Canadian anemone | ANCA8 | Anemone canadensis | 0–40 | – | ||
Table 10. Community 2.2 plant community composition
| Group | Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Annual production (lb/acre) | Foliar cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/Grasslike
|
||||||
| 1 | Mid Warm-Season Grasses | 435–725 | ||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 290–580 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 145–435 | – | ||
| 2 | Tall Warm-Season Grasses | 145–435 | ||||
| big bluestem | ANGE | Andropogon gerardii | 58–290 | – | ||
| composite dropseed | SPCOC2 | Sporobolus compositus var. compositus | 29–203 | – | ||
| switchgrass | PAVI2 | Panicum virgatum | 0–87 | – | ||
| Indiangrass | SONU2 | Sorghastrum nutans | 0–87 | – | ||
| 3 | Cool-Season Bunchgrasses | 0–145 | ||||
| green needlegrass | NAVI4 | Nassella viridula | 0–145 | – | ||
| porcupinegrass | HESP11 | Hesperostipa spartea | 0–116 | – | ||
| Canada wildrye | ELCA4 | Elymus canadensis | 0–58 | – | ||
| 4 | Wheatgrass | 290–580 | ||||
| western wheatgrass | PASM | Pascopyrum smithii | 290–580 | – | ||
| slender wheatgrass | ELTR7 | Elymus trachycaulus | 0–145 | – | ||
| 5 | Short Warm-Season Grasses | 145–435 | ||||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 87–348 | – | ||
| witchgrass | PACA6 | Panicum capillare | 29–145 | – | ||
| saltgrass | DISP | Distichlis spicata | 0–87 | – | ||
| 6 | Other Native Grasses | 29–145 | ||||
| Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 2GRAM | Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 0–145 | – | ||
| Scribner's rosette grass | DIOLS | Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum | 29–58 | – | ||
| 7 | Grass-likes | 145–290 | ||||
| sedge | CAREX | Carex | 87–290 | – | ||
| rush | JUNCU | Juncus | 29–145 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–87 | – | ||
| 8 | Non-Native Grasses | 145–435 | ||||
| Kentucky bluegrass | POPR | Poa pratensis | 58–435 | – | ||
| quackgrass | ELRE4 | Elymus repens | 0–290 | – | ||
| smooth brome | BRIN2 | Bromus inermis | 0–87 | – | ||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 9 | Forbs | 145–435 | ||||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 29–174 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 29–116 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 29–116 | – | ||
| Forb, introduced | 2FI | Forb, introduced | 29–116 | – | ||
| Forb, native | 2FN | Forb, native | 0–87 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 29–87 | – | ||
| white heath aster | SYER | Symphyotrichum ericoides | 29–87 | – | ||
| silverleaf Indian breadroot | PEAR6 | Pediomelum argophyllum | 29–87 | – | ||
| cinquefoil | POTEN | Potentilla | 29–58 | – | ||
| upright prairie coneflower | RACO3 | Ratibida columnifera | 0–58 | – | ||
| dotted blazing star | LIPU | Liatris punctata | 0–58 | – | ||
| aster | ASTER | Aster | 0–58 | – | ||
| Flodman's thistle | CIFL | Cirsium flodmanii | 0–58 | – | ||
| American licorice | GLLE3 | Glycyrrhiza lepidota | 0–58 | – | ||
| sunflower | HELIA3 | Helianthus | 0–58 | – | ||
| Maximilian sunflower | HEMA2 | Helianthus maximiliani | 0–29 | – | ||
| smooth horsetail | EQLA | Equisetum laevigatum | 0–29 | – | ||
| western marbleseed | ONBEO | Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale | 0–29 | – | ||
| Nuttall's violet | VINU2 | Viola nuttallii | 0–29 | – | ||
| ragwort | SENEC | Senecio | 0–29 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 10 | Shrubs | 29–145 | ||||
| snowberry | SYMPH | Symphoricarpos | 29–87 | – | ||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–58 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 0–58 | – | ||
Table 11. Community 3.1 plant community composition
| Group | Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Annual production (lb/acre) | Foliar cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/Grasslike
|
||||||
| 1 | Mid Warm-Season Grasses | 0–525 | ||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 0–525 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 0–175 | – | ||
| 2 | Tall Warm-Season Grasses | 0–350 | ||||
| big bluestem | ANGE | Andropogon gerardii | 0–245 | – | ||
| composite dropseed | SPCOC2 | Sporobolus compositus var. compositus | 0–175 | – | ||
| switchgrass | PAVI2 | Panicum virgatum | 0–70 | – | ||
| Indiangrass | SONU2 | Sorghastrum nutans | 0–70 | – | ||
| 3 | Cool-Season Bunchgrasses | 0–350 | ||||
| green needlegrass | NAVI4 | Nassella viridula | 0–280 | – | ||
| Canada wildrye | ELCA4 | Elymus canadensis | 0–105 | – | ||
| porcupinegrass | HESP11 | Hesperostipa spartea | 0–70 | – | ||
| 4 | Wheatgrass | 0–175 | ||||
| slender wheatgrass | ELTR7 | Elymus trachycaulus | 0–175 | – | ||
| western wheatgrass | PASM | Pascopyrum smithii | 0–175 | – | ||
| 5 | Short Warm-Season Grasses | 0–245 | ||||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 0–105 | – | ||
| witchgrass | PACA6 | Panicum capillare | 0–105 | – | ||
| saltgrass | DISP | Distichlis spicata | 0–70 | – | ||
| 6 | Other Native Grasses | 35–175 | ||||
| Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 2GRAM | Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 35–175 | – | ||
| Scribner's rosette grass | DIOLS | Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum | 0–70 | – | ||
| 7 | Grass-likes | 70–280 | ||||
| sedge | CAREX | Carex | 35–175 | – | ||
| rush | JUNCU | Juncus | 35–175 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–70 | – | ||
| 8 | Non-Native Grasses | 875–1750 | ||||
| Kentucky bluegrass | POPR | Poa pratensis | 700–1400 | – | ||
| smooth brome | BRIN2 | Bromus inermis | 175–700 | – | ||
| quackgrass | ELRE4 | Elymus repens | 0–175 | – | ||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 9 | Forbs | 175–350 | ||||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 35–140 | – | ||
| aster | ASTER | Aster | 35–140 | – | ||
| Forb, introduced | 2FI | Forb, introduced | 35–105 | – | ||
| Forb, native | 2FN | Forb, native | 0–105 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 35–105 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 35–105 | – | ||
| white heath aster | SYER | Symphyotrichum ericoides | 35–105 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 35–105 | – | ||
| meadow zizia | ZIAP | Zizia aptera | 0–70 | – | ||
| silverleaf Indian breadroot | PEAR6 | Pediomelum argophyllum | 35–70 | – | ||
| cinquefoil | POTEN | Potentilla | 0–70 | – | ||
| upright prairie coneflower | RACO3 | Ratibida columnifera | 0–35 | – | ||
| ragwort | SENEC | Senecio | 0–35 | – | ||
| Canadian anemone | ANCA8 | Anemone canadensis | 0–35 | – | ||
| Flodman's thistle | CIFL | Cirsium flodmanii | 0–35 | – | ||
| smooth horsetail | EQLA | Equisetum laevigatum | 0–35 | – | ||
| American licorice | GLLE3 | Glycyrrhiza lepidota | 0–35 | – | ||
| sunflower | HELIA3 | Helianthus | 0–35 | – | ||
| Maximilian sunflower | HEMA2 | Helianthus maximiliani | 0–35 | – | ||
| blue lettuce | LATA | Lactuca tatarica | 0–35 | – | ||
| tall blazing star | LIAS | Liatris aspera | 0–35 | – | ||
| dotted blazing star | LIPU | Liatris punctata | 0–35 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 10 | Shrubs | 70–175 | ||||
| snowberry | SYMPH | Symphoricarpos | 35–105 | – | ||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–70 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 35–70 | – | ||
Table 12. Community 3.2 plant community composition
| Group | Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Annual production (lb/acre) | Foliar cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/Grasslike
|
||||||
| 1 | Mid Warm-Season Grasses | 0–110 | ||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 0–110 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 0–66 | – | ||
| 2 | Tall Warm-Season Grasses | 0–110 | ||||
| composite dropseed | SPCOC2 | Sporobolus compositus var. compositus | 0–110 | – | ||
| switchgrass | PAVI2 | Panicum virgatum | 0–22 | – | ||
| 3 | Short Warm-Season Grasses | 0–220 | ||||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 0–154 | – | ||
| witchgrass | PACA6 | Panicum capillare | 0–110 | – | ||
| saltgrass | DISP | Distichlis spicata | 0–66 | – | ||
| 4 | Other Native Grasses | 22–110 | ||||
| Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 2GRAM | Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 0–110 | – | ||
| Scribner's rosette grass | DIOLS | Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum | 22–44 | – | ||
| 5 | Grass-likes | 22–440 | ||||
| rush | JUNCU | Juncus | 22–330 | – | ||
| sedge | CAREX | Carex | 0–110 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–44 | – | ||
| 6 | Non-Native Grasses | 770–1320 | ||||
| Kentucky bluegrass | POPR | Poa pratensis | 550–1100 | – | ||
| quackgrass | ELRE4 | Elymus repens | 110–440 | – | ||
| smooth brome | BRIN2 | Bromus inermis | 0–176 | – | ||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 7 | Forbs | 220–440 | ||||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 22–220 | – | ||
| Forb, introduced | 2FI | Forb, introduced | 44–220 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 22–154 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 22–132 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 22–132 | – | ||
| white heath aster | SYER | Symphyotrichum ericoides | 22–110 | – | ||
| Forb, native | 2FN | Forb, native | 0–110 | – | ||
| aster | ASTER | Aster | 0–88 | – | ||
| silverleaf Indian breadroot | PEAR6 | Pediomelum argophyllum | 22–66 | – | ||
| Flodman's thistle | CIFL | Cirsium flodmanii | 0–44 | – | ||
| smooth horsetail | EQLA | Equisetum laevigatum | 0–22 | – | ||
| cinquefoil | POTEN | Potentilla | 0–22 | – | ||
| ragwort | SENEC | Senecio | 0–22 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 8 | Shrubs | 0–66 | ||||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–44 | – | ||
| snowberry | SYMPH | Symphoricarpos | 0–44 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 0–22 | – | ||
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.
Little Bluestem/Big Bluestem/Needlegrass (1.1, 2.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 4,000
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 1.10
Wheatgrass/Little Bluestem/Grama (1.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,900
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.79
Kentucky Bluegrass/Smooth Bromegrass/Bluestem (3.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 3,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.96
Kentucky Bluegrass/Baltic Rush/Forbs (3.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,200
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.60
Annual/Pioneer, Non-native Perennial (3.3)
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 contains soils in Hydrologic Group B. Infiltration is moderately slow and runoff potential for this site is negligible to medium. 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 aesthetic 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; Shane Deranleau, RMS, NRCS; Mitch Faulkner, RMS, NRCS; and Bruce Kunze, Soil Scientist, NRCS.
Data Source Sample Period State County
None
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, 1/22/2024
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
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.
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):
Soil surface structure is 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:
Mid, warm-season grasses >> tall, warm-season grasses >Sub-dominant:
Mid and tall, cool-season bunchgrasses >Other:
Wheatgrasses = grass-like species = forbs > short, warm-season grasses > shrubsAdditional:
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 0.5 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):
4,000 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 Kentucky bluegrass. -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
Perennial grass and grass-like species have vigorous rhizomes and/or tillers.
Print Options
Sections
Font
Other
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.
Click on box and path labels to scroll to the respective text.
| T1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing, non-use, no fire, invasion |
|---|---|---|
| T1B | - | Tillage |
| T2A & B | - | Non-use and/or no surface fire, heavy continuous grazing |
| T2C | - | Tillage |
| T3A & B | - | Long-term prescribed grazing, prescribed burning, seeding |
| T3C | - | Tillage |
| T4A | - | Seeding |
| T4B & C | - | Seeding, cropping followed by abandonment |
State 1 submodel, plant communities
| 1.1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2A | - | Prescribed grazing with recovery periods, prescribed burning |
State 2 submodel, plant communities
| 2.1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing |
|---|---|---|
| 2.2A | - | Prescribed grazing |
State 3 submodel, plant communities
| 3.1A | - | Heavy continuous grazing |
|---|---|---|
| 3.2A | - | Prescribed grazing |
| 3.3A | - | Time w/wo disturbances |