Physiographic features

This site occurs on flats and shallow depressions on sandy lake plains and delta plains. Slopes are <2 percent.

Table 2. Representative physiographic features

Climatic features

MLRA 56A is considered to have a continental climate – cold winters and relatively hot summers, low to moderate 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 18 to 23 inches per year. The average annual temperature is about 40°F. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from about 1°F (Pembina, North Dakota (ND) to about 11°F (Wheaton, Minnesota (MN). July is the warmest month with temperatures averaging from about 68°F (Pembina, ND) to about 73°F (Wheaton, MN). The range of normal average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 65°F. This large annual range attests to the continental nature of this area's climate. Winds are estimated to average about 13 miles per hour annually, ranging from about 15 miles per hour during the spring to about 11 miles per hour 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 miles per hour.

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. Greening up of cool season plants may occur in September and October when adequate soil moisture is present.

Table 3. Representative climatic features

Climate stations used

• (1) PEMBINA [USW00014924], Pembina, ND

• (2) GRAFTON [USC00323594], Grafton, ND

• (3) PARK RIVER [USC00326857], Park River, ND

• (4) VICTOR 4 NNE [USC00398652], Rosholt, SD

• (5) WHEATON [USC00218907], Wheaton, MN

• (6) AGASSIZ REFUGE [USC00210050], Grygla, MN

Influencing water features

During the months of March through July, typically, the water table is within a depth of 18 inches and lowers to a depth of 1.5 to 3.5 feet for the remainder of the growing season. Depending on the density and thickness of the claypan layer, ponding in depressions may be frequent in the spring or after heavy, summer rainfall. Surface infiltration is moderate to moderately rapid; permeability through the claypan subsoil is moderately slow to moderate. Water loss is through evapotranspiration and percolation below the root zone.

Soil features

Soils associated with Sodic Subirrigated ES are in the Mollisol order. The Mollisols are further classified as Typic Natraquolls. These soils were developed under prairie vegetation. They formed in sandy glaciolacustrine sediments or deltaic deposits. The soils on this site are very deep; however, there is a claypan layer which restricts root growth.

The soils in this site are poorly drained with redoximorphic features within a depth of 18 inches. The surface texture is typically sandy loam, fine sandy loam, or loam but loamy fine sand and loamy sand are included. The texture of the claypan layer is typically sandy loam, fine sandy loam, or loam, but sandy clay loam also occurs.

Soil salinity, typically, is none or very slight (E.C. <4 dS/m) to a depth of >20 inches; however, slightly saline (E.C. 4-8 dS/m) is allowable. In some soils, salinity may increase to moderate (E.C. 8-16 dS/m) below a depth of 20 inches.

Where the surface layer is more than 3 inches thick (Reference and Native/Invaded States), sodicity is relatively low (SAR <8); however, in the “Thin State” (claypan within a depth of 3 inches), SAR values in the surface layer may be as high as 30. In the sodic subsoil layer (claypan), SAR values are commonly between 10 and 20 in the Thick State; but they are 20 to >40 in the Thin State.

In the Thick Reference State, soil reaction is slightly alkaline or moderately alkaline (pH 7.4 to 8.4) in the surface layer and moderately alkaline to very strongly alkaline (pH 7.9 to 9.0) in the subsoil and substratum. The Thin State is moderately alkaline (pH 7.9 to 8.4) in the surface layer and strongly alkaline to very strongly alkaline (pH 8.5 to 9.6) in the subsoil and substratum.

Calcium carbonate content typically ranges from 0 to 10 percent in the surface layer of all states. In the subsoil, it typically ranges from 3 to 25 percent in the subsoil to a depth of 20 inches in both States.

The soil surface is stable and intact. Sub-surface soil layers can be restrictive to water movement and root penetration. These soils are susceptible to wind and water erosion. The hazard of erosion increases where vegetative cover is not adequate. A drastic loss of the soil surface layer on this site can result in a shift in species composition and/or production.

The major soil series correlated to the Sodic Subirrigated site is Stirum.

Access Web Soil Survey (https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx) for specific local soils information.

Table 4. Representative soil features

Animal community

Animal Community – Wildlife Interpretations

Landscape

The MLRA 56A landscape is characterized by a nearly level glacial lake plain bordered on the east and west by outwash plains, till plains, gravelly beaches, and dunes. MLRA 56A is considered to have a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, low humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature are common and characteristic of the MLRA. This area supports natural tall-grass prairie vegetation with bur oak, green ash, and willow growing in drainageways. This area is formed in silty and clayey lacustrine sediments from the former Glacial Lake Agassiz. Complex intermingled ecological sites create diverse grass/shrub land habitats interspersed with varying densities of linear, slope, depressional, and in-stream wetlands associated with headwater streams and tributaries to the Red River of the North. MLRA 56A is located within the boundaries of the Prairie Pothole Region and is an ecotone between the humid east and the sub-humid west regions. The primary land use is annual cropland (~80%). The Red River Valley is known for its exceptional fertility with major crops including corn, soybeans, small grains, and sugar beets.

By the mid-19th century, the majority of the Red River Valley had been converted from tall-grass prairie to annual crop production. To alleviate crop production loss from wetlands and overland flow, a system of shallow surface ditches, judicial ditches, and road ditches removes surface water in spring and during high rainfall events. The major soils are poorly drained with extensive areas of saline soils. Tile drainage systems have been or are being extensively installed throughout MLRA 56A for sub-surface field drainage to enhance annual crop production.

The east and west side of the Red River Valley formed in a complex pattern of sandy beach material, stratified inter-beach material, lacustrine silts, and lake washed glacial till. The soils vary from excessively drained on ridges to very poorly drained organic basins. Surface ditches serve to drain some of the area, although much of the area lacks adequate drainage for maximum crop production. Calcareous fens and saline seeps can occur at the base of beach ridges and result in rare plant communities. Native vegetation was mixed- and tall-grass prairie with scattered woodland and brush.

Historic Communities/Conditions within MLRA 56A:

The northern tall- and mixed-grass prairie was a disturbance-driven ecosystem with fire, herbivory, and climate functioning as the primary ecological drivers (either singly or often in combination). Frequent and expansive flooding along the Red River and its tributaries provided abundant opportunities for Native Americans to harvest wild rice. American bison roamed MLRA 56A wintering along the Red River and migrating west into MLRA 55A and 55B for parts of the season. Many species of grassland birds, small mammals, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and large herds of roaming American bison, elk, and pronghorn were historically among the inhabitants adapted to this region. Roaming herbivores, as well as several small mammal and insect species, were the primary consumers linking the grassland resources to large predators (such as the wolf and American black bear) and smaller carnivores (such as the coyote, bobcat, red fox, and raptors). Extirpated species include free-ranging American bison and gray wolf (breeding). Extinct from the region is the Rocky Mountain locust.

Present Communities/Conditions within MLRA 56A:

MLRA 56A has the most conversion to cropland of any MLRA within Region F-Northern Great Plains. European influence has impacted remaining grassland and shrubland by domestic livestock grazing, elimination of fire, removal of surface and subsurface hydrology via artificial drainage, and other anthropogenic factors influencing plant community composition and abundance.

Extensive drainage has taken place. Streams have been straightened (removing sinuosity) and riparian zones have been converted to annual crop production. These anthropogenic impacts have reduced flood water detention and retention on the landscape, increasing storm water runoff, sediment, and nutrient loading to the Red River and its tributaries. The installation of instream structures has reduced aquatic species movement within the MLRA.

Annual cropping is the main factor contributing to habitat fragmentation, reducing habitat quality for area-sensitive species. These influences fragmented the landscape, reduced, or eliminated ecological drivers (fire), and introduced exotic species including smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, and leafy spurge which further impacted plant and animal communities. The loss of the bison and fire as primary ecological drivers greatly influenced the character of the remaining native plant communities and the associated wildlife, moving towards a less diverse and more homogeneous landscape.

Included in this MLRA are approximately 70,000 acres of the United States Forest Service, Sheyenne National Grassland (southern portion of MLRA) with an additional 65,000 acres of intermingled privately owned land of sandy soils providing a large tract of intact tall grass prairie within the MLRA. United Fish and Wildlife Service refuges and waterfowl production areas, along with and state wildlife management areas cover approximately 67,000 acres within the MLRA. Two of three largest cities in North Dakota are located within the MLRA.

USDA conservation programs have seeded thousands of cropland acres in riparian zones to native herbaceous vegetation. Natural succession is replacing the planted native herbaceous vegetation to native woody vegetation re-establishing native wooded riparian areas on previously cropland. Most of the plantings have been along the Red River and its tributaries in the northern portions of the MLRA within the United States. These areas are privately owned and protected from annual agricultural production with perpetual conservation easements.

Some characteristic wildlife species in this area are:

Birds: Mallard, blue-winged teal, red-tailed hawk, American kestrel, ring-necked pheasant, western meadowlark, killdeer, eastern and western kingbird, American crow, common yellowthroat, downy and hairy woodpecker, clay-colored sparrow, vesper sparrow, Savannah sparrow, and brown-headed cowbird.

Mammals: Northern short-tailed shrew, white-tailed jackrabbit, snowshoe hare, Franklin’s ground squirrel, thirteen-lined ground squirrel, northern pocket gopher, plains pocket gopher, western harvest mouse, deer mouse, meadow vole, meadow jumping mouse, western jumping mouse, coyote, red fox, raccoon, American badger, striped skunk, white-tailed deer, North American beaver, and moose.

Reptiles/Amphibians: American toad, Great Plains toad, northern leopard frog, chorus frog, tree frog, tiger salamander, plains garter snake, and common garter snake.

Presence of wildlife species is often determined by ecological site characteristics including grass and forb species, hydrology, aspect, and other associated ecological sites. The home ranges of most species are usually larger than one ecological site or are dependent upon more than one ecological site for annual life requisites. Ecological sites offer different habitat elements as the annual life requisites change. Habitat improvement and creation must be conducted within the mobility limits of a known population for the species.

Insects play an important role providing ecological services for plant community development. Insects that are scavengers or aid in decomposition provide the food chain baseline sustaining the carnivorous insects feeding upon them. Many insects provide the ecological services necessary for pollination, keeping plant communities healthy and productive. Insects provide a protein food source for numerous species including grassland-nesting birds and their young. Extensive use of insecticides for specialty crops (such as potatoes, sugar beets, and other crops) has greatly reduced insects within this MLRA.

Species of Concern within MLRA 56A:

The following is a list of species considered “species of conservation priority” in the North Dakota State Wildlife Action Plan (2015); “species of greatest conservation need” in the Minnesota State Wildlife Action Plan, Conservation Focus Areas, Target Species (2015) and the South Dakota State Wildlife Action Plan (2014); and “species listed as threatened, endangered, or petitioned” under the Endangered Species Act within MLRA 56A at the time this section was developed:

Invertebrates: Arogos skipper, Assiniboia skipper, Dakota skipper, dusted skipper, Leonard’s skipper, monarch butterfly, Poweshiek skippering, red-tailed leafhopper, regal fritillary, and Uhler’s Arctic.

Birds: American kestrel, American bittern, bobolink, American white pelican, bald eagle, black-billed cuckoo, chestnut-collared longspur, Dickcissel, grasshopper sparrow, greater prairie-chicken, Henslow’s sparrow, LeConte’s sparrow, loggerhead shrike, marbled godwit, Nelson’s sparrow, northern harrier, northern pintail, red-headed woodpecker, sharp-tailed grouse, short-eared owl, Swainson’s hawk, upland sandpiper, western meadowlark, willet, Wilson’s phalarope, and yellow rail.

Mammals: Arctic shrew, big brown bat, eastern spotted skunk, gray fox, little brown bat, northern grasshopper mouse, plains pocket mouse, prairie vole, pygmy shrew, Richardson’s ground squirrel, and river otter.

Amphibians/Reptiles: Canadian toad, common snapping turtle, northern prairie skink, and plains hognose snake.

Fish: Blacknose shiner, blue sucker, burbot, chestnut lamprey, finescale dace, hornyhead chub, largescale stoneroller, logperch, northern pearl dace, northern redbelly dace, pearl dace, shortnose gar, sickle-fin chub, sliver chub, silver lamprey, trout-perch, and yellow bullhead.

Mussels: Black sandshell, creek heelsplitter, creeper, mapleleaf, pink heelsplitter, pink papershell, threeridge, and Wabash pigtoe.

Grassland Management for Wildlife in MLRA 56A:

Management activities within the community phase pathways have both short and long term positive and negative impacts on wildlife. Community phase, transitional, and restoration pathways are keys to long-term management within each State and between States. Significant inputs must occur to cross the threshold between States (e.g., State 3.0 to 2.0) requiring substantial economic inputs and management (grazing intensity, reseeding, prescribed fire, woody vegetation removal, etc.). Timing, intensity, and frequency of these inputs can have dramatic positive or negative effects on vegetative structure impacting local wildlife species’ habitats. Ranchers and other land managers must always consider the long-term beneficial effects of management on the habitat in comparison to potential short-term negative effects to individual species.

Ecological sites occur as intermingled complexes on the landscape with gradual or sometimes abrupt transitions. Rarely do ecological sites exist in large enough acreage to manage independently. Ecological sites supporting a dominance of herbaceous vegetation (Wet Meadow, Subirrigated Sands) can be located adjacent to ecological sites that support trees (Choppy Sands and Loamy Overflow).

Management of these complex ecological sites can provide a heterogeneous or a homogenous landscape. Grassland bird use reduces as the plant community transitions to a homogenous state or increases in woody vegetation. Managers need to recognize ecological sites and the complexes they occur in to properly manage the landscape. A management regime for one ecological site may negatively impact an adjacent site (e.g., alteration of a grazing regime within a Choppy Sands ecological site to encourage understory growth may encourage exotic cool- season grasses to increase or dominate an adjacent ecological site).

Life requisites and habitat deficiencies are determined for targeted species. Deficiencies need to be addressed along community phase, transitional, and restoration pathways as presented in specific state-and-transition models. Ecological sites should be managed and restored within the site’s capabilities to provide sustainable habitat. Managers also must consider habitat provided by adjacent/intermingled ecological sites for species with home ranges or life requisites that cannot be provided by one ecological site.

With populations of many grassland-nesting birds in decline, it is important to maintain these ecological sites in a 1.0 Reference State or the 2.0 Native/Invaded State. Plant communities optimal for a guild of grassland species serve as a population source where the birth rate exceeds mortality. Species may use marginal plant communities; however, these sites may function as a population sink where mortality exceeds the birth rate.

Understanding preferred vegetative stature and sensitivity to woody encroachment is necessary to manage for the specific grassland species. Various grass heights may be used for breeding, nesting, or foraging habitat. While most species use varying heights, many have a preferred vegetative stature height. The following chart provides preferred vegetative stature heights and sensitivity to woody vegetation encroachment.

To see the chart please follow the hyperlink. ( https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov/#/state/ND/search )

Sodic Subirrigated Wildlife Habitat Interpretation:

Sodic Subirrigated ecological sites have parent material that is very deep; however, a root-restrictive, dense, sodic claypan subsoil is within a depth of 13 inches. The claypan layer restricts root growth. Commonly, there is a mosaic of vegetation caused by variable depths to the claypan layer (and associated SAR and pH values). The vegetation mosaic consists of tall statured vegetation (bluestems, Indiangrass, switchgrass) in association with sodic tolerant, short statured vegetation (foxtail barley, saltgrass, and bare ground). Wildlife species response will be dependent on the amount of each type of vegetation within the mosaic. Associated ecological sites commonly include Saline Lowland, Limy Subirrigated, Sandy Claypan, Shallow Marsh, and Wet Meadow. This complex of ecological sites provides habitat for many edge-sensitive, grassland bird species preferring short-, medium- and tall-statured vegetation.

Sodic Subirrigated habitat features and components commonly support grassland-nesting birds that prefer varied statured vegetation. Tall-statured and short-statured vegetation occurs in a mosaic creating a patchy landscape. Depending on the patch size of the varied statured vegetation grassland nesting birds will respond differently. Low diversity and density of forb species provide limited pollen and nectar resources for pollinating insects. In turn, invertebrate production is low, providing limited protein resources for grassland-nesting birds. Sodic Subirrigated ecological sites provide forage for small and large herbivores.

Sodic Subirrigated ecological sites may be found in five plant community states (1.0 Reference State (Mosaic), 2.0 Thick-Native/Invaded State, 3.0 Thin-Native/Invaded State,
4.0 Thick-Invaded State, and 5.0 Go-Back State) within a local landscape. Multiple plant community phases exist within States 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0. Today, these states occur primarily in response to drought, fire, grazing, and non-use, and other anthropogenic disturbances.

Because there is no known restoration pathway from State 2.0 to State 1.0, it is important to intensively manage using Community Phase Pathways in State 1.0 to prevent further plant community degradation along the T1A and T1B Transitional Pathways to State 2.0 and State 3.0. Native wildlife generally benefits from the heterogeneous grasslands found in States 1.0 and 2.0 that include grass and forb species of varying stature and density. As plant communities degrade and transition to State 4.0, exotic cool-season grass increase while native forbs are reduced.

Management along community phase, transition, or restoration pathways should focus upon attainable changes. Short- and long-term monetary costs must be evaluated against short- and long-term ecological services in creating and maintaining habitat of enough quality to support a sustainable population density.

1.1 Thick-Reference

Community Phase 1.11 Bluestems-Indiangrass-Switchgrass: This plant community offers tall statured vegetative wildlife habitat and occurs in a mosaic with short statured vegetation. This phase retains high functionality through continued maintenance including prescribed grazing with adequate recovery period, as well as prescribed burning. Predominance of grass species in this community favors grazers and mixed-feeders (animals selecting grasses as well as forbs and shrubs). The structural diversity provides habitat for a wide array of migratory and resident birds.

Invertebrates: Insects play a role in maintaining the forb community and provide a forage base for grassland birds, reptiles, and rodents. Ecological services, historically provided by American bison, are simulated by domestic livestock. These services include putting plant material and dung in contact with mineral soil to be used by low trophic level consumers (such as invertebrate decomposers, scavengers, shredders, predators, herbivores, dung beetles and fungal feeders).

Dakota skippers do not prefer this site due to limited host plants (such as woody lily, harebell, and smooth camas). Regal fritillary habitat is limited due to Nuttall's violet and prairie violets being uncommon. Monarch butterfly may use flowering forbs on this site; however, few milkweed species are found on this site to support breeding and larvae development. Bumblebees and other native bees utilize forbs for nectar and pollen; however, bare ground for nesting species is limited due to a predominance of sod-forming grasses. Prescribed grazing with adequate recovery periods, as well as prescribed burning, to maintain the 1.11 phase will have long-term positive effects on ground dwelling insects.

Birds: This plant community provides quality nesting, foraging, and escape habitats favored by mid- to tall-grass nesting birds. Grassland birds preferring mid- to tall-grass structure will use this site. In years with reduced precipitation or drought, nesting recruitment may be compromised. This plant community provides suitable areas for sharp-tailed grouse nesting, brood-rearing, and winter habitat. Limited structure and diverse prey populations provide good hunting opportunity for grassland raptors. Many passerine species utilize MLRA 56A as a major migratory travel corridor. The low scattered shrubs present in the plant community phase should not impact woody vegetation sensitive bird species.

Mammals: The diversity of grasses and forbs provide high nutrition levels for small and large herbivores including voles, mice, rodents, jackrabbits, and white-tailed deer. Mid- to tall-stature vegetation provides suitable food, thermal, protective, and escape cover for small and large herbivores.

Amphibians/Reptiles: This ecological site and associated plant communities provides habitat for smooth green snakes. This ecological site can provide habitat for the northern leopard frog and Great Plains toad if freshwater habitats (such as wetlands, streams, or lakes) are adjacent or near the site.

Fish and Mussels: This ecological site is not directly associated with streams, rivers, or water bodies. It receives run-on hydrology from adjacent ecological sites and may provide hydrology to other ecological sites lower on the landscape. Management on this site, in conjunction with nearby run-on sites, can have a direct effect on aquatic species in streams and/or tributaries receiving water from Sodic Subirrigated sites and nearby sites. Optimum hydrological function and nutrient cycling limit potential for sediment yield and nutrient loading to any nearby aquatic ecosystems from Community Phase 1.11.

Community Phase 1.12 Switchgrass-Wheatgrasses-Foxtail Barley-Saltgrass: Heavy grazing pressure, with or without drought, results in marked decreases in big bluestem and Indiangrass along with corresponding increases in wheatgrass, foxtail barley, and saltgrass.

Invertebrates: A decrease in forb diversity and heavy grazing reduces available nectar and pollen. In addition, heavy grazing may increase compaction, further reducing ground nesting bee habitat.

Birds: Heavy grazing, coupled with drought, reduces vegetive stature favoring grassland nesting birds preferring mid- to short statured vegetation. Winter cover for resident bird species, such as sharp-tailed grouse, is somewhat compromised due to the increase in western wheatgrass and saltgrass and heavy grazing.

Mammals: Shorter statured vegetation and heavy grazing creates shorter statured vegetation, reducing cover for large mammals such as white-tailed deer.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

1.2 Thin-Reference

Community Phase 1.21 Foxtail Barley-Saltgrass/Bare Ground: Overall plant diversity is low; the forb component is inherently limited on this ecological site limiting use by many wildlife species. However, since this plant community if found within a mosaic with mid- to tall-statured vegetation, life requisites may be found in an adjacent plant community within the same ecological site. Predominance of grass species in this community favors grazers and mixed-feeders (animals selecting grasses as well as forbs and shrubs). The structural diversity provides habitat for migratory and resident bird species that prefer short structure and bare ground.

Invertebrates: Insects play a role in maintaining the forb community and provide a forage base for grassland birds, reptiles, and rodents. Ecological services, historically provided by bison, are mirrored by domestic livestock. These services include putting plant material and dung in contact with mineral soil to be used by lower trophic level consumers (such as invertebrate shredders, predators, herbivores, dung beetles, and fungal-feeders).

Dakota skippers do not prefer this site due to limited host plants (such as woody lily, harebell, and smooth camas). Regal fritillary habitat is limited due to short stature of this plant community and Nuttall’s and prairie violets are uncommon. Limited forb resources are available for all pollinator species and sodic soils may limit ground nesting bees even though bare ground is available. Prescribed grazing with adequate recovery periods (as well as prescribed burning) to maintain the Community Phase 1.1 will have long-term positive effects on ground dwelling insects.

Birds: This plant community provides nesting, foraging, and escape habitats favored by short- to mid-grass nesting birds that can also tolerate areas of bare ground. Plant structure is generally short for bird species using short-grass habitats; however, this plant community occurs in a mosaic with mid- to tall-statured vegetation providing various vegetative stature for grassland nesting birds. The mosaic of short- and tall-statured vegetation provides diverse prey populations and hunting opportunity for grassland raptors.

Mammals: This plant community lacks cover for large ungulates and the amount of bare ground may limit small herbivore use. However, this plant community occurs in a mosaic with mid- to tall-statured vegetation providing various vegetative stature for large and small mammals. squirrels.

Amphibians/Reptiles: This ecological site and associated plant communities provides habitat for smooth green snakes. This ecological site does not usually provide habitat for the northern leopard frog and Great Plains toad since it is not located adjacent to or near freshwater habitat (such as wetlands, streams, or lakes).

Fish and Mussels: This ecological site is not directly associated with streams, rivers, or water bodies. It receives run-on hydrology from adjacent ecological sites and may provide hydrology to other ecological sites lower on the landscape. Management on this site, in conjunction with nearby run-on sites, can have a direct effect on aquatic species in streams and/or tributaries receiving water from Sodic Subirrigated sites and nearby sites.

Community Phase 1.22 Slickspot/Annual/Pioneer Perennial: Heavy grazing, with or without drought removes the majority of perennial vegetation and the site becomes dominated by annual, pioneering vegetation. The lack of perennial cover and dramatic increase in bare ground (slickspot) limits use by all wildlife species. However, found in a mosaic with Community Phase 1.12 Switchgrass-Wheatgrass-Foxtail Barley-Saltgrass, wildlife habitats are found in a mosaic across the ecological site.

2.0 Thick-Native/Invaded State

Community Phase 2.1 Bluestems-Indiangrass-Switchgrass/Exotic Cool-Season Grasses: This plant community develops through Transition Pathway T1A due to changes in management and the presence of exotic, cool-season grasses and a decline in native warm- season and cool-season grasses; it may have been exacerbated by chronic season-long or heavy late season grazing or long-term annual haying. Complete rest from grazing and suppression of fire could also have hastened the transition. The threshold between states was crossed when Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, quackgrass, or other exotic species became established on the site. The threshold between States 1.0 and 2.0 is crossed when Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, or other exotic species become established. This plant community phase has a very similar appearance and function to the Reference State of Community 1.11 except it has a minor amount of cool-season exotic grasses and forbs. This phase still functions at a high level for native wildlife; therefore, managers should consider the 2.0 community phase pathways to avoid transitioning to the Invaded State 4.0. There is no known Community Phase Pathway back to State 1.0 from State 2.0.

Invertebrates: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Birds: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Mammals: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Community Phase 2.2 Little Bluestem-Wheatgrasses-Foxtail Barley-Saltgrass/Forbs: Heavy grazing pressure, with or without drought (via Community Pathway 2.1A) increases grazing tolerant grasses (such as western wheatgrass, little bluestem, foxtail barley, and saltgrass). The result is a shorter statured vegetative community.

Invertebrates: A decrease in forb diversity and heavy grazing reduces available nectar and pollen. In addition, heavy grazing may increase compaction, further reducing ground nesting bee habitat.

Birds: Heavy grazing, coupled with drought, reduces vegetive stature favoring grassland nesting birds preferring mid- to short statured vegetation. Winter cover for resident bird species, such as sharp-tailed grouse, is somewhat compromised due to the increase in western wheatgrass and saltgrass and heavy grazing.

Mammals: Shorter statured vegetation and heavy grazing creates shorter statured vegetation, reducing cover for large mammals such as white-tailed deer.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Community Phase 2.3 Exotic Cool-Season Grasses/Tall Warm Season Grasses: This plant community occurs over periods of extended rest, long-term haying, and/or no disturbance. This results in marked increases in the exotic cool-season grasses with the warm-season grasses conspicuously present. Long-term cover (hay) during the warm-season critical growth period favors exotic cool-season grasses; it also negatively impacts grassland nesting birds during the nesting season.

Invertebrates: The increase in exotic cool-season grasses decrease bare ground reducing habitat for ground nesting bees. Haying during flowering periods reduces pollen and nectar availability.

Birds: Increase in exotic cool-season grasses provides a shorter statured vegetation component for grassland nesting birds. Although tall warm-season grasses are still present on the site, overall, a shorter statured vegetation community favors grassland nest bird species that prefer mid- to medium- statured vegetation. Haying during the primary nesting season reduces survival and recruitment of grassland nesting bird species.

Mammals: Shorter statured vegetation, coupled with no-use, light-use or long-term haying creates shorter statured vegetation which reduces cover for large ungulates. Small mammal habitat remains intact with litter build-up especially under non-use or light use management regime.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

3.0 Thin-Native/Invaded State

Community Phase 3.1 Exotic Cool-Season Grasses/Western Wheatgrass/Forbs/Bare Ground: This plant community develops through Transition Pathway T1B due to changes in management and the presence of exotic, cool-season grasses and a decline in native warm- season and cool-season grasses. Complete rest from grazing and suppression of fire could also have hastened the transition. The threshold between states was crossed when Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, quackgrass, or other exotic species became established on the site. The threshold between States 1.0 and 2.0 is crossed when Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, or other exotic species become established. This plant community phase has a very similar appearance and function to the Reference State of Community 1.21, except it has a minor amount of cool-season exotic grasses and forbs. This phase still functions at a high level for native wildlife; therefore, managers should consider the 2.0 community phase pathways to avoid transitioning to the Invaded State 4.0. There is no known Community Phase Pathway back to State 1.0 from State 2.0.

Invertebrates: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.21.

Birds: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.21.

Mammals: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.21.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.21.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.21.

Community Phase 3.2 Foxtail Barley-Saltgrass/Exotic Forbs/Bare Ground: This plant community develops through Community Phase Pathway 3.1A with heavy grazing, with or without drought. An increase in salinity and grazing tolerant species results in an increase in foxtail barley and, possibly, bare ground.

Invertebrates: Heavy grazing reduces increase soil compaction reducing potential for ground nesting bees. Heavy grazing also reduces pollen and nectar sources.

Birds: Heavy grazing shortens vegetative height favoring grassland nesting birds that prefer short statured vegetation.

Mammals: Heavy grazing reduces vegetative height and bare soil reducing thermal, escape, and winter cover for small and large herbivores.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.21. However, heavy grazing reduces habitats for all amphibians and reptiles, such as skinks and snakes.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.21.

4.0 Thick-Invaded State

Community Phase 4.1 Exotic Cool-Season Grasses/Forbs: Thick-Invaded State may occur under a wide range of managerial conditions ranging from non-use, prolonged annual haying, and no fire to heavy season-long grazing - primarily Kentucky bluegrass characterized by a dominance (>30%) of exotic cool-season grasses, such as smooth brome and Kentucky bluegrass; native grasses represent less than 40% of the plant community. Return to State 2.0 (via Restoration Pathway R3A) through prescribed burning and high levels of grazing management requires remnant amounts of native warm- and cool-season and forbs to be successful. The remnant native community needs frequent prescribed burns and high levels of grazing management targeting the exotic cool-season grasses to improve competitiveness and increase vigor and density. Without intensive management, the remnant native plants will not increase adequately to transition back to State 2.0. Intensified management along the R3A Pathway will have significant short-term negative impacts on wildlife habitat; however, this is necessary to restore long-term native habitat functions.

Invertebrates: Exotic grasses limit use by beneficial insects provided in States 1.0 and 2.0. Heavy, continuous season-long grazing causes this plant community to be dominated by sod forming cool- and warm-season grasses creating a thick root layer which eliminates bare ground and nesting sites for native bees and other ground-nesting insects. Lack of grazing and/or fire increase litter leading to limited contact between plant material and mineral soil resulting in a cooler micro-climate, which is unfavorable to most insects. Both management scenarios lead to a lack of nectar-producing plants and native grass host plants which eliminate life requisites for invertebrate species of concern in MLRA 56A. Depending on density of shrubs, early- to mid-season pollen and nectar may be provided by western snowberry and prairie rose.

Birds: The homogeneous community phase, dominated by exotic short statured grass species, provides limited habitat and life requisites for most obligate grassland-nesting birds. Bird species that favor short-statured vegetation may use this site; however, heavy, continuous season-long grazing along with a lack of plant diversity and stature limits use by many grassland-nesting birds. Lack of grazing and/or fire decreases plant diversity and stature and increases litter; the tendency of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth brome to lay down limits use by many grassland-nesting birds. Sharp-tailed grouse may use this plant community for lek sites; however, all other life requisites will need to be met on other nearby or adjacent ecological sites plant communities. The shrub component in this plant community will not reach density or height to be detrimental to grass-land nesting birds that are intolerant to woody vegetation.

Mammals: Heavy, continuous season-long grazing causes this plant community to be dominated by short-statured, sod forming cool- and warm-season grasses providing limited thermal, protective, escape cover for mammals. Limited habitat is available for mammals except for ground dwelling rodent species. Lack of grazing and/or fire decreases plant diversity and stature and increases litter; the tendency of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth brome to lay down favors thermal, protective, and escape cover for small mammals/rodents. Dependent upon the density of western snowberry, limited thermal, protective, and escape cover may be available for larger mammals.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.11.

5.0 Go-Back State

Community Phase 5.1 Annual/Pioneer Perennial/Exotics: Following cropland abandonment or other disturbance, these plant communities are dominated by early pioneer annual and perennial plant species. Plant species composition and production are highly variable. Weedy plants can provide pollinator habitat along with spring and summer cover for many mammals and birds, and their young. Dense weed cover can keep soils moist, increasing insect presence. Tall stature provided by some weeds, such as marsh elder and ragweed, offer thermal cover and seeds throughout winter for deer, small mammals, and over- wintering birds. The response by wildlife species will be dependent upon plant community composition, vegetative stature, patch size, and management activities (such as prescribed grazing, burning, inter-seeding, haying, or noxious weed control).

Successful restoration along Transition Pathway R5B can result in a native grass and forb community in State 2.0. Implementation of prescribed burning and/or chemical/mechanical brush management followed by a failed range planting, via Transition Pathway R5B or R5C, can result in and invaded plant community, either Thin-Invaded State 3.0 or State 4.0 Thick-Invaded State.

Animal Community – Grazing Interpretations

This site is well adapted to managed grazing by domestic livestock. The predominance of herbaceous plants across all plant community phases best lends these sites to grazing by cattle, but other domestic grazers with differing diet preferences may also be a consideration depending upon management objectives. Often, the current plant community does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in the ecological site description). Because of this, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. Proper interpretation of this inventory data will permit the establishment of a safe, initial stocking rate for the type and class of animals and level of grazing management. More accurate stocking rate estimates should eventually be calculated using actual stocking rate information and monitoring data.

NRCS defines prescribed grazing as “managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals with the intent to achieve specific ecological, economic, and management objectives”. As used in this site description, the term ‘prescribed grazing’ is intended to include multiple grazing management systems (e.g. rotational grazing, twice-over grazing, conservation grazing, targeted grazing, etc.) provided that, whatever management system is implemented, it meets the intent of prescribed grazing definition.

The basic grazing prescription addresses balancing forage demand (quality and quantity) with available forage, varying grazing and deferment periods from year-to-year, matching recovery/deferment periods to growing conditions when pastures are grazed more than once in a growing season, implementation of a contingency (e.g. drought) plan, and a monitoring plan. When the management goal is to facilitate change from one plant community phase or state to another, then the prescription needs to be designed to shift the competitive advantage to favor the native grass and forb species.

Grazing levels are noted within the plant community narratives and pathways in reference to grazing prescribed grazing management. “Degree of utilization” is defined as the proportion of the current year’s production that is consumed and/or destroyed by grazing animals (may refer to a single plant species or a portion or all the vegetation). “Grazing utilization” is classified as slight, moderate, full, close, and severe (see the following table for description of each grazing use category). The following utilization levels are also described in the Ranchers Guide to Grassland Management IV. Utilization levels are determined by using the landscape appearance method as outlined in the Interagency Technical Reference “Utilization Studies and Residual Measurements” 1734-3. This site is well adapted to managed grazing by domestic livestock. The predominance of herbaceous plants across all plant community phases best lends these sites to grazing by cattle, but other domestic grazers with differing diet preferences may also be a consideration depending upon management objectives. Often, the current plant community does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in the ecological site description). Because of this, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. Proper interpretation of this inventory data will permit the establishment of a safe, initial stocking rate for the type and class of animals and level of grazing management. More accurate stocking rate estimates should eventually be calculated using actual stocking rate information and monitoring data.

NRCS defines prescribed grazing as “managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals with the intent to achieve specific ecological, economic, and management objectives”. As used in this site description, the term ‘prescribed grazing’ is intended to include multiple grazing management systems (e.g., rotational grazing, twice-over grazing, conservation grazing, targeted grazing, etc.) provided that, whatever management system is implemented, it meets the intent of prescribed grazing definition.

The basic grazing prescription addresses balancing forage demand (quality and quantity) with available forage, varying grazing and deferment periods from year-to-year, matching recovery/deferment periods to growing conditions when pastures are grazed more than once in a growing season, implementation of a contingency (e.g., drought) plan, and a monitoring plan. When the management goal is to facilitate change from one plant community phase or state to another, then the prescription needs to be designed to shift the competitive advantage to favor the native grass and forb species.

Grazing levels are noted within the plant community narratives and pathways in reference to grazing prescribed grazing management. “Degree of utilization” is defined as the proportion of the current year’s production that is consumed and/or destroyed by grazing animals (may refer to a single plant species or a portion or all the vegetation). “Grazing utilization” is classified as slight, moderate, full, close, and severe (see the following table for description of each grazing use category). The following utilization levels are also described in the Ranchers Guide to Grassland Management IV. Utilization levels are determined by using the landscape appearance method as outlined in the Interagency Technical Reference “Utilization Studies and Residual Measurements” 1734-3.

Utilization Level % Use Description

Slight (Light) 0-20 Appears practically undisturbed when viewed obliquely. Only choice areas and forage utilized.

Moderate 20-40 Almost all of accessible range shows grazing. Little or no use of poor forage. Little evidence of trailing to grazing.

Full 40-60 All fully accessible areas are grazed. The major sites have key forage species properly utilized (about half taken, half left). Points of concentration with overuse limited to 5 to 10 percent of accessible area.

Close (Heavy) 60-80 All accessible range plainly shows use and major sections closely cropped. Livestock forced to use less desirable forage, considering seasonal preference.

Severe > 80 Key forage species completely used. Low-value forages are dominant.

Hydrological functions

Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic group D. Infiltration is typically moderate to moderately rapid; runoff potential for this site varies from negligible to low depending on surface texture, slope and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75% ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. An example of an exception would be where shortgrasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Dominance by Kentucky bluegrass, and/or smooth brome will result in reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Areas where ground cover is less than 50% 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).

Hydrological manipulation (surface or tile drainage, pumping, surface water diversion, etc.) modifies this ecological site. The transition to an altogether different ecological site will depend upon severity of altered hydrology, soil properties, and corresponding vegetation. Due to the many variables (e.g., hydrology, type and success of drainage, etc.), impacts to the ecological site will be site-specific. As a result, each situation will require field investigation to determine what, if any, change in ecological site designation is necessary and proceed accordingly.

Recreational uses

Hunting and Bird Watching: The United States Fish and Wildlife Service manages approximately 4,000 acres of National Wildlife Refuges for hiking and bird watching and approximately 24,000 acres of Waterfowl Production Areas for public hunting, hiking, and bird watching. States within MLRA 56A manage approximately 39,000 acres of wildlife management areas for multiple use including hunting, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, berry picking, and other non-motorized uses. Of the 39,000 acres, approximately 21,400 are in Minnesota with approximately 16,000 acres in North Dakota and approximately 1,700 acres in South Dakota.

In North Dakota, the United States Forest Service manages 70,000 acres on the Sheyenne National Grassland for multiple uses including camping, hunting, photography, backpacking birdwatching, biking, horseback riding, and other non-motorized recreation. The Sheyenne National Grassland is also managed for livestock grazing. The Choppy Sands and Sands ecological sites dominate the Grassland. It is the only National Grassland in the tallgrass prairie region of the United States. The grassland provides habitat for greater prairie chickens as well as several other sensitive species, such as the Dakota skipper and regal fritillary. It also contains one of largest populations of the western prairie fringed orchid which is listed as a threatened species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Fishing: Approximately 20 lakes are managed for public fishing MLRA 56A. Most of these lakes offer boat docks and ramps. These lakes contain various sport fish including walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, crappie, and bluegill. The Red River runs from south to north through the center of the MLRA. The Red River is best known for channel catfish but also has walleye, sauger, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. The Red River is 550 miles long from its source in the southern end of the MLRA near Breckenridge, Minnesota to Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba, Canada. Between North Dakota and Minnesota, there are 32 public access points along the Red River with 18 having boat ramps.

Camping: Four state parks or recreation areas provide of modern and primitive camping facilities. Minnesota hosts the Buffalo River State Park and Red River State Park. North Dakota hosts the Icelandic State Park and Turtle River State Park. These Parks provide hiking, biking, birding, canoeing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many local parks and private parks provide modern and primitive camping opportunities. Limited primitive camping is also available on North Dakota Game and Fish Department Wildlife Management Areas.

Hiking/Biking/Horseback Riding: Hiking is permitted on most state and federally owned lands. Developed hiking and biking trails can be found the four state parks. The Grand Forks Greenway has over 22 miles of trails while municipalities along the Red River have extensive walking and hiking trails. A 30-mile segment of the North Country National Scenic Trail leads hikers through the Sheyenne National Grassland’s unique landforms and plant communities. This trail has three trailheads along its route; it is a graveled, marked trail. The entire North Country National Scenic Trail stretches from Crown Point, New York to Lake Sakakawea near Garrison, North Dakota.

Canoeing/Kayaking: The Red River has six designated canoe/kayaking trails. Public access, with limited rentals, is available at these segments. Sheyenne River Water Trail has a segment within the MLRA Sheyenne National Grasslands. Canoe/kayak rentals are available at Icelandic State Park.

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

Site Development and Testing Plan
• Further investigation is needed on the soil physical and chemical property differences between Stirum sites with a thicker surface layer (currently in Thick State and Native/Invaded States) and those with a very thin surface layer (currently in Thin State) and the variability of associated plant communities. It is unclear whether the Thin State is a result of erosion or if the thin surface is due to other, variable soil forming factors: inherent sodium content near the surface (very high pH an SAR values and possible sodium toxicity), water table fluctuations, soil capillarity and surface evaporation, etc. It is also unclear whether it should be assumed that areas in the Thin State were once in Reference condition or if the current sparse plant community on these areas should be considered typical. The mosaic of better/poorer vegetation may have the norm prior to any “management” of these soils. It may be advisable that a distinct ecological site description be developed for what is now termed “change to Thin State” after further investigation can be completed.
• Further documentation may be needed for plant communities in all states. Plant data has been collected in previous range-site investigations, including clipping data; however, this data needs review. If geo-referenced sites meeting Tier 3 standards for either vegetative or soil data are not available, representative sites will be selected for further investigation.
• Site concepts will be refined as the above noted investigations are completed.
• The long-term goal is to complete an approved, correlated Ecological Site Description as defined by the National Ecological Site Handbook.
• NASIS revisions needed:
o During the recently completed Ecological Site Description update, this Sodic Subirrigated ecological site was developed; all Stirum components need to be relinked from Saline Lowland to 55A Sodic Subirrigated.

This ESD is the best available knowledge. The site concept and species composition table have been used in the field and tested for more than five years. It is expected that as additional information becomes available revisions may be required.

Inventory data references

Information presented here has been derived from NRCS and other federal/state agency clipping and inventory data. Also, field knowledge of range-trained personnel was used. All descriptions were peer reviewed and/or field-tested by various private, state and federal agency specialists.

Other references

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Contributors

ND NRCS: Keith Anderson, Fred Aziz, Stan Boltz, David Dewald, Jonathan Fettig, Alan Gulsvig, Mark Hayek, Chuck Lura, Jeff Printz, Steve Sieler, Lee Voigt, and Hal Weiser.

Approval

Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 5/19/2025