Shallow Clayey
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T1A More details
- Restoration pathway R2A More details
-
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Description
The Reference State (1.0) represents what is believed to show the natural range of variability that dominated the dynamics of this ecological site prior to European settlement. This site in the Reference State (1.0) is dominated by cool-season grasses with sub-dominant warm-season grasses. In pre-European times, the primary disturbance mechanisms included periodic fire and grazing by large herding ungulates. Timing of fires and grazing coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. Cool-season wheatgrasses and needlegrasses and taller warm-season grasses would have declined and a corresponding increase in short statured grass and grass-like species would have occurred. Today, a similar state can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest.
Submodel
Description
The Shortgrass Sod State (2.0) is dominated by shortgrass species, and upland sedges. Clubmoss may also become common on this site. This State is the result of grazing management that does not provide adequate recovery time for tall and mid-statured warm- or cool-season grasses. The hydrologic function of this state is dramatically altered. Runoff is high and infiltration is low. This State is very resistant to change through grazing management alone.
Submodel
Mechanism
Continuous season-long grazing, or continuous seasonal grazing (early spring), or heavy grazing in combination with drought will transition the Reference State (1.0) to the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0). This transition is most likely to originate from the Western Wheatgrass-Blue Grama/Shrubs Plant Community (1.2).
Mechanism
Long-term prescribed grazing, including proper stocking rates, change in season of use, and time for adequate plant recovery; and favorable climatic conditions; may facilitate this transition from the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0) to the Reference State (1.0). This transition may not be rapid or in the end meet management goals.
Relevant conservation practices
| Practice | External resources |
|---|---|
|
Prescribed Grazing |
Model keys
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Ecological sites
Major Land Resource Areas
The Ecosystem Dynamics Interpretive Tool is an information system framework developed by the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and New Mexico State University.