Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Ecological site R061XW112WY
Loamy-West (16-20" PZ)
Last updated: 7/17/2024
Accessed: 12/03/2024
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): 061X–Black Hills Foot Slopes
The Black Hills Foot Slopes (MLRA 61) is shared between Wyoming (WY) (58 percent) and South Dakota (SD) (42 percent). The MLRA is approximately 1,865 square miles. The towns of Spearfish, Sturgis, and Hot Springs, South Dakota, and Newcastle and Sundance, Wyoming, are all in this MLRA. Rapid City, South Dakota, is on the eastern edge of the MLRA. Wind Cave National Park, Devils Tower National Monument, and parts of Thunder Basin National Grassland and the Black Hills National Forest are also in MLRA 61. Devils Tower was the nation’s first National Monument, designated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906.
The Black Hills Foot Slopes consists of steeply dipping rocks circling the domed mountains of the Black Hills. As the mountains were uplifted, older sediments were tipped up and dipped away from the core of the mountains. The Lower Cretaceous Fall River and Lakota (Inyan Kara Group) sandstones, which are on the outside edge of the area, are referred to as the Dakota Hogback. The next geologic formation is the Triassic-aged red beds of the Spearfish shale. It forms a low valley. This “red valley” surrounds the Black Hills between the two ridges formed by the Inyan Kara (hogback) and Minnekahta Formations associated with the Black Hills (MLRA 62). The Lakota referred to the red valley as the “Big Racecourse or the Red Racetrack.” The red beds have gypsum and anhydrous layers. Ground water seepage can dissolve these layers, creating sinkholes on the surface.
The average elevation of MLRA 61 ranges from 2,950 to 3,940 feet with extremes to 5,580 feet. Slopes are generally hilly; however, the interior red beds are nearly level to moderately sloping. The exterior hogback is steep, erosion-resistant rock. The Belle Fourche River is the only river flowing through MLRA 61. It passes through Hulett, Wyoming.
The dominant soil orders in this MLRA are Alfisols, Entisols, and Mollisols. The soils in the area predominantly have frigid or mesic soil temperature regimes and aridic or ustic soil moisture regimes. The soils are shallow to very deep, generally well drained, and loamy.
Average annual precipitation is 16 to 22 inches. The majority of rainfall occurs early in the growing season. Some high-intensity thunderstorms occur in mid-late summer. This MLRA supports open grassland, open ponderosa forest, and savanna-like vegetation. The grassland is characterized by native grasses, such as big bluestem, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, needle and thread, prairie dropseed, and green needlegrass. Bur oak grows throughout the northern area and can develop into nearly pure stands.
The major resource concerns are water quality, wind erosion, water erosion, and urban expansion.
MLRA 61 is 54 percent privately owned rangeland and 19 percent forest land. Federal lands make up 7 percent of the rangeland and 5 percent of the forest land. The remaining 15 percent of the MLRA is privately owned cropland and urban development (USDA-NRCS, 2006: Ag Handbook 296).
LRU notes
For development of ecological sites, MLRA 61 is divided into three precipitation zones (PZ).
The northern area (18-22” PZ) extends from just south of Rapid City, South Dakota, north to the Wyoming border.
The southern area (16-18” PZ) extends from Newcastle, Wyoming, south to Hot Springs, South Dakota, then north to just south of Rapid City.
The western area (16-20” PZ) is primarily located in Wyoming, extending from Newcastle in the south, to north of the Bear Lodge Mountains, then south through the gap between the Bear Lodge Mountains and the Black Hills.
One additional grouping of ecological sites represents sites that are common for the entire MLRA and do not have a precipitation zone designation.
The forest lands in MLRA 61 are represented by three forest ecological sites, which are currently correlated to MLRA 62 Black Hills.
Classification relationships
USDA-NRCS Land Resource Region G—Western Great Plains Range and Irrigated Region:
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA) 61—Black Hills Foot Slopes
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Level IV Ecoregions of the Conterminous United States:
Black Hills Foothills—17a
USDA Forest Service
Ecological Subregions: Sections and Subsections of Conterminous United States:
Black Hills Coniferous Forest Province—M334:
Black Hills Foothills Subsection—M334Aa
Ecological site concept
The Loamy 16-20" PZ ecological site occurs throughout the western portion of MLRA 61. It is located on upland landscapes and does not receive additional moisture from runoff or overflow. The typical slopes range is 1 to 15 percent. Soils are deep, (greater than 20 inches). The “A” horizon is 4 to 9 inched deep and will have textures ranging from loam to silt loam. Subsurface textures range from fine sandy loam to silty clay.
The vegetation in the Reference State (1.0) consists of cool-season and warm-season grasses. Western wheatgrass, needle and thread, green needlegrass are the dominant cool-season grasses, while big bluestem, and sideoats grama, are the subdominant warm-season grasses. Forbs are common and diverse. Shrubs, such as western snowberry, rose, and leadplant will likely be present in minor amounts. The Loamy 16-20” PZ site is susceptible to invasion of non-native, cool-season grasses.
Associated sites
| R061XW104WY |
Clayey-West (16-20" PZ) The Clayey 16-20” PZ ecological site is found on the same landscape position adjacent to the Clayey 16-20” PZ ecological site. |
|---|---|
| R061XW162WY |
Shallow Loamy-West (16-20" PZ) The Shallow Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site is found on ridge tops and steep slopes adjacent to the Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site. |
| R061XW104WY |
Clayey-West (16-20" PZ) The Clayey 16-20” PZ ecological site is found on the same landscape position adjacent to the Clayey 16-20” PZ ecological site. |
Similar sites
| R061XW104WY |
Clayey-West (16-20" PZ) The Clayey 16-20” PZ ecological site will have more green needlegrass, less needle and thread, and big bluestem than the Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site. |
|---|
Table 1. Dominant plant species
| Tree |
Not specified |
|---|---|
| Shrub |
Not specified |
| Herbaceous |
(1) Pascopyrum smithii |
Physiographic features
The Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site occurs on nearly level to steeply sloping uplands.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
| Landforms |
(1)
Upland
> Hill
(2) Upland > Plain |
|---|---|
| Runoff class | Low to medium |
| Flooding frequency | None |
| Ponding frequency | None |
| Elevation | 3,500 – 5,000 ft |
| Slope | 15% |
| Ponding depth |
Not specified |
| Aspect | Aspect is not a significant factor |
Climatic features
Average annual precipitation in the western precipitation zone of MLRA 61 ranges from 16 to 20 inches. Wide fluctuations may occur in yearly precipitation and result in more years that are dry than years that have above normal precipitation. Temperatures show a wide range between summer and winter and between daily maximums and minimums. This range is predominantly due to the high elevation and dry air, which permit rapidly incoming and outgoing radiation. In winter, cold air outbreaks move rapidly from northwest to southeast and account for extreme minimum temperatures. Extreme storms may occur during the winter. They most severely affect ranch operations during late winter and spring.
The average annual temperature is about 46 °F. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from about 20 °F (Devils Tower, WY) to about 24 °F (Newcastle, WY). July is the warmest month with average temperatures ranging about 74 °F (Newcastle, WY) to about 70 °F (Devils Tower, WY). The range of average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 50 °F. Wind speeds are estimated to average about 12 miles per hour annually, ranging from about 14 miles per hour during the spring to about 10 miles per hour during the summer. Winds are generally stronger during the day than at night. Occasionally, storms 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. Cool-season plants may green-up in September and October if adequate soil moisture is present.
Table 3. Representative climatic features
| Frost-free period (characteristic range) | 81-101 days |
|---|---|
| Freeze-free period (characteristic range) | 115-123 days |
| Precipitation total (characteristic range) | 17-19 in |
| Frost-free period (actual range) | 73-108 days |
| Freeze-free period (actual range) | 115-127 days |
| Precipitation total (actual range) | 17-20 in |
| Frost-free period (average) | 91 days |
| Freeze-free period (average) | 119 days |
| Precipitation total (average) | 18 in |
Figure 2. Monthly precipitation range
Figure 3. Monthly minimum temperature range
Figure 4. Monthly maximum temperature range
Figure 5. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
Figure 6. Annual precipitation pattern
Figure 7. Annual average temperature pattern
Climate stations used
-
(1) DEVILS TWR #2 [USC00482466], Devils Tower, WY
-
(2) HULETT [USC00484760], Hulett, WY
-
(3) UPTON 14ENE [USC00489208], Newcastle, WY
-
(4) SUNDANCE [USC00488705], Sundance, WY
-
(5) NEWCASTLE [USC00486660], Newcastle, WY
Influencing water features
No riparian areas or wetland features are directly associated with the Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site.
Wetland description
Not Applicable.
Soil features
Soils common to the Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site will have a surface layer 4 to 9 inches thick, with textures ranging from very fine sandy loam to silt loam, and with weak fine to medium granular structure. The subsurface textures are sandy clay loam, silty clay loam or clay loam. Slopes range from about 0 to 15 percent. The soils in this site are well drained and formed in residuum, and alluvium. The soils have a moderate to moderately slow infiltration rate. Subsurface soil layers are nonrestrictive to water movement and root penetration.
Major Soils correlated to the Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site include, Boneek, Deekay, Kadoka, Norka, Recluse, Regnaps, Rothician, Satanta, Sprangler, Tilford, and Wages.
This site typically should show slight to no evidence of rills, wind-scoured areas or pedestalled plants. If present, water flow paths are broken, irregular in appearance or discontinuous. The soil surface is stable and intact.
These soils are mainly susceptible to water erosion. The hazard of water erosion increases on slopes greater than about 10 percent. Loss of 50 percent or more of the surface layer of the soils on this site can result in a shift in species composition and production.
More information regarding the soil is available in soil survey reports. Contact the local USDA Service Center for details specific to your area of interest or go online to access USDA’s Web Soil Survey.
Table 4. Representative soil features
| Parent material |
(1)
Residuum
(2) Alluvium |
|---|---|
| Surface texture |
(1) Loam (2) Silt loam (3) Very fine sandy loam |
| Family particle size |
(1) Loamy |
| Drainage class | Moderately well drained to well drained |
| Permeability class | Moderately slow to moderate |
| Soil depth | 20 – 60 in |
| Surface fragment cover <=3" | Not specified |
| Surface fragment cover >3" | 10% |
| Available water capacity (0-40in) |
2.1 – 5.5 in |
| Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-40in) |
10% |
| Electrical conductivity (0-40in) |
4 mmhos/cm |
| Sodium adsorption ratio (0-40in) |
5 |
| Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in) |
7.8 – 8.4 |
| Subsurface fragment volume <=3" (Depth not specified) |
20% |
| Subsurface fragment volume >3" (Depth not specified) |
10% |
Ecological dynamics
The Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site developed under Northern Great Plains climatic conditions; light to severe grazing by bison and other large herbivores; sporadic, natural or human-caused wildfire (often of light intensities); and other biotic and abiotic factors that typically influence soil and site development. Changes occur in the plant communities due to short-term weather variations, effects of native and exotic plant and animal species, and management actions. Although the following plant community descriptions are typical of the transitions between communities, severe disturbances, such as periods of well below average precipitation and the introduction of non-native cool-season grasses, can cause significant shifts in plant communities and species composition.
Continuous season-long grazing (during the typical growing season of May through October) or heavy continuous grazing (e.g., every spring or every summer at moderate to heavy stocking levels) without adequate recovery periods following grazing events causes departure from the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs Plant Community (1.1). Blue grama will increase and eventually develop into a sod. Western wheatgrass will increase initially and then begin to decrease. Needle and thread, green needlegrass, big bluestem, and sideoats grama will decrease in frequency and production. Excessive defoliation can cause threeawn and annuals to increase and dominate the site. Extended periods of non-use or lack of fire will result in excessive litter and a plant community dominated by cool-season grasses such as western wheatgrass, needlegrass, and non-native cool-season grasses.
Interpretations are primarily based on the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs Plant Community (1.1). It has 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 used. Plant community phases, states, transitional pathways, and thresholds have been determined through similar studies and experience.
The following is a State-and-Transition diagram that illustrates the common plant communities that can occur on the site and the transition pathways between communities. The ecological processes will be discussed in more detail in the plant community descriptions following the diagram.
State and transition model
More interactive model formats are also available.
View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective text
Ecosystem states
States 1, 5 and 2 (additional transitions)
State 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 4 submodel, plant communities
State 5 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference State
The Reference State represents what is believed to show the natural range of variability that dominated the dynamics of the ecological site prior to European settlement. This site in the Reference State (1.0) is dominated by cool-season grasses and sub-dominant warm-season grasses. Grazing or the lack of grazing, fire, and drought are the major drivers between plant communities. Continuous season-long grazing can push this state to a warm-season shortgrass-dominated State (2.0). Non-use, no fire, and invasion of non-native cool-season grasses will result in a transition to a Native/Invaded State (4.0). Today, a similar state 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 1.1
Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs
Interpretations are based primarily on the Western Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs Plant Community, which is also considered to be Reference Plant Community (1.1). The potential vegetation is about 75 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. The community is dominated by cool-season grasses and sub-dominant warm-season grasses. The major grasses include western wheatgrass, needle and thread, green needlegrass, big bluestem, and sideoats grama. Other grass or grass-like species include blue grama, thickspike wheatgrass, Indiangrass, plains muhly, and threadleaf sedge. Forbs are diverse and shrubs can include fringed sagewort, wild rose, and western snowberry. Trees may be present but will be a minor component. 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 regard to site and soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 8. 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 | 1465 | 1896 | 2325 |
| Forb | 220 | 300 | 375 |
| Shrub/Vine | 115 | 180 | 250 |
| Tree | 0 | 24 | 50 |
| Total | 1800 | 2400 | 3000 |
Figure 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6102, Black Hills Foot Slopes, cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant. Cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-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 |
| 3 | 10 | 23 | 34 | 15 | 6 | 5 | 4 |
Community 1.2
Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Blue Grama/Shrubs
This plant community evolved under continuous seasonal grazing (grazing at moderate to heavy stocking levels at the same time of year each year), continuous season-long grazing, or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 70 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 15 percent shrubs. Dominant grass and grass-like species include western wheatgrass, blue grama, and needleleaf sedge. Grasses of secondary importance include needle and thread, green needlegrass, hairy grama, buffalograss, and sideoats grama. Non-native grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, cheatgrass, Canada bluegrass, and field brome will likely invade and can possibly become somewhat prevalent in this plant community phase. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include white sagebrush (cudweed sagewort), goldenrod, scurfpea, and whiter prairie aster. Shrubs can include fringed sagewort, wild rose, and western snowberry. Trees may be present but will be a minor component. When compared to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs Plant Community (1.1), blue grama and threadleaf sedge have increased. Needle and thread, green needlegrass and other tall and mid-statured grasses have decreased, and production is also 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.
Figure 10. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6102, Black Hills Foot Slopes, cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant. Cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-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 |
| 3 | 10 | 23 | 34 | 15 | 6 | 5 | 4 |
Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2
Continuous seasonal grazing which includes grazing at moderate to heavy stocking levels at the same time of year each year, winter grazing that extends in to the spring green-up, continuous season-long grazing, or a combination of disturbances such as extended periods of below average precipitation coupled with periodic heavy grazing will shift this community to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Blue Grama/Shrubs Plant Community (1.2).
Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1
Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest, and a return to normal precipitation following drought will convert this plant community to the Western Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs Plant Community (1.1).
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Grazing |
|---|
State 2
Shortgrass Sod State
This state occurs as a result of above recommended stocking levels, inadequate recovery periods between grazing events, or a combination of these disturbances. This state is dominated by warm-season grasses, with cool-season grasses being sub-dominant. The shallow, compact nature of the roots of the dominant species causes increased runoff and reduced infiltration. These conditions combine to cause the site to become more droughty, and thus reduce the opportunity for recruitment and establishment of the taller statured grasses. This state is relatively stable and resistant to change. Historically, rangeland mechanical treatment of this site has been an option used to improve forage production and plant species composition on rangeland. These mechanical treatments include such things as contour furrowing, contour pitting, terracing, chiseling, and disking. The purpose of the practice is to mechanically break up a sod-bound vegetative condition or compacted soils, resulting in less runoff and better infiltration. Many of these treatments were implemented during the 1930s through the 1970s with mixed results. This is primarily due to improper grazing management following the renovation practice. Other drawback, in addition to the cost, is these practices result in a near-permanently roughed ground surface.
Community 2.1
Blue Grama/Sedge
This plant community evolved under moderate to heavy continuous season-long grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. This plant community may also exist adjacent to prairie dog colonies or water sources. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 75 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, and 15 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses typically include blue grama, and threadleaf sedge. Grasses of secondary importance include western wheatgrass, hairy grama, buffalograss, sun sedge, needle and thread, and sand dropseed. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include white sagebrush (cudweed sagewort), goldenrod, scurfpea, Cuman ragweed, and western yarrow. When compared to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs Plant Community (1.1), blue grama, and threadleaf sedge are dominant on this plant community. Cool-season grasses have decreased significantly. This vegetation state is very resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, composition can be altered through long-term prescribed grazing. This plant community has significantly less production. The thick sod prevents other species from getting established. Lack of litter and reduced plant vigor causes higher soil temperatures, poor water infiltration rates, and high evapotranspiration which gives blue grama a competitive advantage over most other grasses. Soil erosion will be minimal due to the sod forming habit of blue grama and upland sedges.
Figure 11. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6104, Black Hills Foot Slopes, warm-season dominant, cool-season sub-dominant. Warm-season dominant, cool-season sub-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 |
| 3 | 7 | 17 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 7 | 1 |
State 3
Early Successional State
This state occurs as a result of extreme disturbance that typically removes most of the native species normally present on this site. Disturbance in the form of severe grazing over several years are the most typical. Occupation by black-tailed prairie dogs can also result in this transition. The dominant species present is highly variable, but the common characteristics include high amounts of bare ground, reduced soil aggregate stability, increased runoff and increased erosion (including increased sediment loads in the runoff). Restoration of the ecological processes will be very difficult.
Community 3.1
Annual/Pioneer Perennial/Bare Ground
This plant community developed under continuous heavy grazing or other excessive disturbances (e.g., heavy use areas, livestock concentration areas, defoliation by rodents, etc.). The potential plant community is made up of approximately 60 to 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 to 35 percent forbs, and 2 to 5 percent shrubs. The dominant grass is often threeawn. Other grasses may include cheatgrass, field brome, sedge, blue grama, sand dropseed, bluegrass, and western wheatgrass. The dominant forbs include fetid marigold, sweetclover, Cumin ragweed, white sagrbrush (cudweed sagewort), and other invader-like species. The dominant shrubs include fringed sagewort, broom snakeweed and cactus. A wide variety of other early successional plant species can occupy this site in varying amounts. This plant community is susceptible to invasion of Canada thistle and other non-native species because of the relatively high percent of bare ground. Compared to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs Plant Community (1.1), threeawn, annual brome grasses, and percentage of bare ground has increased. Western wheatgrass, needlegrasses and other cool-season grasses have decreased as have the warm-season species including big bluestem, sideoats grama, and little bluestem. 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.
State 4
Native/Invaded State
The Native/Invaded State is dominated by native cool- and warm-season grasses, and sub-dominant non-native cool-season grasses. It can be found on areas that would appear to be properly managed with grazing and possibly prescribed burning. Extended periods of non-use and no fire, or long-term light grazing can result in the invasion and establishment of non-native cool-season grasses onto this site. If the native cool-season grasses decline a corresponding increase of non-native cool-season grasses can occur. The non-native cool-season grasses will include, smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, cheatgrass, and field brome.
Community 4.1
Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses (<15%)/Shrubs
This plant community develops when non-native cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass or smooth brome invade and become established on the site. This may occur due to the sites close proximity to seed sources, expansion from road ditches, improved pastures, other invaded sites, or from contaminated hay. Repeated seasonal grazing (typically during the summer), or long-term light grazing, or extended periods of non-use and no fire, will allow these non-native cool-season grasses to increase in the plant community. Plant litter accumulates in large amounts when this community first develops. Litter buildup reduces mature native plant vigor and density, and seedling recruitment declines. Eventually litter levels become high enough that plant density decreases. Typically, rhizomatous grasses form small colonies because of a lack of tiller stimulation. The potential vegetation is about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. The community is dominated by cool-season grasses. The major grasses include western wheatgrass, needle and thread, green needlegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and smooth brome. Other grass and grass-like species include big bluestem, blue grama, sideoats grama, thickspike wheatgrass, and needleleaf sedge. This plant community is resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The non-native species typically do not increase to the point of dominance; however, their presence tends to reduce the overall diversity of the plant community. As such, this is a somewhat sustainable plant community in regard to site and soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6102, Black Hills Foot Slopes, cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant. Cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-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 |
| 3 | 10 | 23 | 34 | 15 | 6 | 5 | 4 |
State 5
Disturbed State
This State can be transitioned to from any plant community. The two separate vegetative plant communities, Go-Back and Seeded, are highly variable in nature. They are derived through different management scenarios and are not related successionally. Infiltration, runoff, and soil erosion will vary depending on the vegetation present on the site. The Go-Back Plant Community (5.1) was previously tilled for crop production and then abandoned. The plant community that develops on this site will be greatly influenced by the plant communities that are located on adjacent land. The Seeded Plant Community (5.2) was typically tilled and then seeded to a perennial forage species or mix of species.
Community 5.1
Go-Back
The Go-back plant community can be reached whenever severe mechanical disturbance occurs (e.g., tilled and abandoned cropland). During the early successional stages, the species that mainly dominate the plant community are annual grasses and forbs, later being replaced by both native and introduced perennials. The vegetation on this site varies greatly, sometimes being dominated by threeawn, bluegrass, smooth brome, annual brome, broom snakeweed, sweetclover, and non-native thistles. Other plants that commonly occur on the site can include western wheatgrass, prickly lettuce, horseweed, mullein, kochia, foxtail, and sunflowers. Bare ground is prevalent due to the loss of organic matter and lower overall soil health.
Community 5.2
Seeded
The Seeded Plant Community is normally those areas seeded to pubescent or intermediate wheatgrass, alfalfa, switchgrass, or other forage species. For adapted species and expected production, refer to the USDA-NRCS eFOTG for the appropriate Forage Suitability Group description.
Transition T1B
State 1 to 2
Continuous seasonal grazing (stocking levels above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season, and at the same time of year each year, typically beginning early in the season), or continuous season-long grazing will transition the Reference State (1.0) to the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0). This transition is most likely to occur from the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Blue Grama/Shrubs Plant Community (1.2).
Transition T1C
State 1 to 3
Heavy, continuous season-long grazing; frequent and severe defoliation; or heavy disturbance will transition the Reference State (1.0) to the Early Successional State (3.0).
Transition T1A
State 1 to 4
Continuous summer seasonal grazing; long-term light grazing; or non-use and no fire; and the invasion of non-native cool-season grasses will transition the Reference State (1.0) to the Native/Invaded State (4.0).
Transition T6A
State 1 to 5
Heavy disturbance including soil erosion; tillage; abandoned cropland; or seeding to improved pasture species will result in a transition to the Disturbed State (5.0).
Restoration pathway R2A
State 2 to 1
Long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) may transition the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0) to the Reference State (1.0). Most probably the transition will be to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Blue Grama/Shrubs Plant Community (1.2), assuming adequate seed and vegetative sources are present. This could require significant time and inputs to achieve and, in the end, may not meet management objectives.
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Grazing |
|---|
Transition T2A
State 2 to 3
Heavy, continuous season-long grazing or frequent severe defoliation, or heavy disturbance will likely move the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0) to the Early Successional State (3.0).
Transition T2B
State 2 to 4
Long-term prescribed grazing with change in season of use, adequate time for recovery, and a return to normal precipitation patterns. Due to the invasion of non-native cool-season perennial grasses the trajectory of this transition will be from the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0) to the Native/Invaded State (4.0). This transition may not be fast or feasible.
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Grazing |
|---|
Transition T6A
State 2 to 5
Heavy disturbance including soil erosion; tillage; abandoned cropland; or seeding to improved pasture species will result in a transition to the Disturbed State (5.0).
Restoration pathway R3A
State 3 to 2
Removal of management induced disturbance coupled with long-term prescribed grazing with proper stocking rates, change in season of use, and adequate recovery time following grazing even may return the Early Successional State (3.0) to the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0). Herbaceous weed control may also be needed. This transition could require significant time and input to achieve and, in the end, may not meet management objectives.
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Grazing | |
|---|---|
| Herbaceous Weed Control |
Transition T6A
State 3 to 5
Heavy disturbance including soil erosion; tillage; abandoned cropland; or seeding to improved pasture species will result in a transition to the Disturbed State (5.0).
Transition T4A
State 4 to 2
Continuous season-long grazing; continuous seasonal grazing; or heavy grazing in combination with drought will transition the Native/Invaded State (4.0) to the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0).
Transition T4B
State 4 to 3
Heavy, continuous season-long grazing; frequent and severe defoliation; or heavy disturbance will transition the Native/Invaded State (4.0) to the Early Successional State (3.0).
Transition T6A
State 5 to 4
Heavy disturbance including soil erosion; tillage; abandoned cropland; or seeding to improved pasture species will result in a transition to the Disturbed State (5.0).
Additional community tables
Table 6. Community 1.1 plant community composition
| Group | Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Annual production (lb/acre) | Foliar cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/Grasslike
|
||||||
| 1 | Rhizomatous Wheatgrass | 360–840 | ||||
| western wheatgrass | PASM | Pascopyrum smithii | 240–600 | – | ||
| thickspike wheatgrass | ELLAL | Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus | 0–240 | – | ||
| 2 | Cool-Season Bunchgrass | 360–840 | ||||
| needle and thread | HECOC8 | Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata | 120–720 | – | ||
| green needlegrass | NAVI4 | Nassella viridula | 120–360 | – | ||
| Columbia needlegrass | ACNE9 | Achnatherum nelsonii | 0–120 | – | ||
| porcupinegrass | HESP11 | Hesperostipa spartea | 0–120 | – | ||
| slender wheatgrass | ELTR7 | Elymus trachycaulus | 0–120 | – | ||
| bluebunch wheatgrass | PSSP6 | Pseudoroegneria spicata | 0–120 | – | ||
| 3 | Tall and Mid- Warm-Season Grasses | 120–480 | ||||
| big bluestem | ANGE | Andropogon gerardii | 120–240 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 120–240 | – | ||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 0–120 | – | ||
| prairie dropseed | SPHE | Sporobolus heterolepis | 0–48 | – | ||
| 4 | Short Warm-Season Grasses | 120–240 | ||||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 24–192 | – | ||
| buffalograss | BODA2 | Bouteloua dactyloides | 24–96 | – | ||
| 5 | Other Native Grasses | 24–120 | ||||
| prairie Junegrass | KOMA | Koeleria macrantha | 24–72 | – | ||
| Cusick's bluegrass | POCU3 | Poa cusickii | 0–72 | – | ||
| Sandberg bluegrass | POSE | Poa secunda | 0–72 | – | ||
| Grass, perennial | 2GP | Grass, perennial | 0–48 | – | ||
| threeawn | ARIST | Aristida | 0–24 | – | ||
| onespike danthonia | DAUN | Danthonia unispicata | 0–24 | – | ||
| 6 | Grass-Like | 24–120 | ||||
| needleleaf sedge | CADU6 | Carex duriuscula | 24–120 | – | ||
| sedge | CAREX | Carex | 0–72 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–48 | – | ||
| 7 | Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses | 0 | ||||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 8 | Forbs | 240–360 | ||||
| American vetch | VIAM | Vicia americana | 24–48 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 24–48 | – | ||
| deathcamas | ZIGAD | Zigadenus | 24–48 | – | ||
| dotted blazing star | LIPU | Liatris punctata | 24–48 | – | ||
| fleabane | ERIGE2 | Erigeron | 24–48 | – | ||
| four o'clock | MIRAB | Mirabilis | 24–48 | – | ||
| hairy false goldenaster | HEVI4 | Heterotheca villosa | 24–48 | – | ||
| beardtongue | PENST | Penstemon | 24–48 | – | ||
| prairie clover | DALEA | Dalea | 24–48 | – | ||
| blacksamson echinacea | ECAN2 | Echinacea angustifolia | 24–48 | – | ||
| scarlet beeblossom | GACO5 | Gaura coccinea | 24–48 | – | ||
| scarlet globemallow | SPCO | Sphaeralcea coccinea | 24–48 | – | ||
| common starlily | LEMO4 | Leucocrinum montanum | 24–48 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 24–48 | – | ||
| western wallflower | ERAS2 | Erysimum asperum | 24–48 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 24–48 | – | ||
| white prairie aster | SYFA | Symphyotrichum falcatum | 24–48 | – | ||
| wild bergamot | MOFI | Monarda fistulosa | 24–48 | – | ||
| Forb, perennial | 2FP | Forb, perennial | 24–48 | – | ||
| scurfpea | PSORA2 | Psoralidium | 0–24 | – | ||
| spiny phlox | PHHO | Phlox hoodii | 0–24 | – | ||
| upright prairie coneflower | RACO3 | Ratibida columnifera | 0–24 | – | ||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 0–24 | – | ||
| buckwheat | ERIOG | Eriogonum | 0–24 | – | ||
| false boneset | BREU | Brickellia eupatorioides | 0–24 | – | ||
| western marbleseed | ONBEO | Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale | 0–24 | – | ||
| desert biscuitroot | LOFO | Lomatium foeniculaceum | 0–24 | – | ||
| cinquefoil | POTEN | Potentilla | 0–24 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 9 | Shrubs | 120–240 | ||||
| skunkbush sumac | RHTR | Rhus trilobata | 24–120 | – | ||
| Wyoming big sagebrush | ARTRW8 | Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis | 0–96 | – | ||
| prairie sagewort | ARFR4 | Artemisia frigida | 24–48 | – | ||
| leadplant | AMCA6 | Amorpha canescens | 0–48 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 24–48 | – | ||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–48 | – | ||
| silver sagebrush | ARCA13 | Artemisia cana | 0–24 | – | ||
| western snowberry | SYOC | Symphoricarpos occidentalis | 0–24 | – | ||
| pricklypear | OPUNT | Opuntia | 0–24 | – | ||
|
Tree
|
||||||
| 10 | Trees | 0–48 | ||||
| ponderosa pine | PIPO | Pinus ponderosa | 0–48 | – | ||
| Rocky Mountain juniper | JUSC2 | Juniperus scopulorum | 0–24 | – | ||
| bur oak | QUMA2 | Quercus macrocarpa | 0–24 | – | ||
| Tree | 2TREE | Tree | 0–24 | – | ||
Interpretations
Animal community
MLRA 61 is in the drier areas of the northern mixed-grass prairie ecosystem in which sagebrush steppes to the west yield to grassland steppes to the east. Prior to European settlement, this MLRA consisted of diverse grassland and shrubland habitats interspersed with varying densities of depressional, instream wetlands and woody riparian corridors. These habitats provided critical life cycle components for many users. Many species of grassland birds, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians and herds of roaming bison, elk, and pronghorn were among the inhabitants adapted to this semi-arid region. Roaming herbivores, as well as several species of small mammals and insects, were the primary consumers linking the grassland resources to large predators, such as the gray wolf, mountain lion, and grizzly bear, and to smaller carnivores, such as the coyote, bobcat, fox, and raptors. The prairie dog was once abundant and remains a keystone species within its range. The black-footed ferret, burrowing owl, ferruginous hawk, mountain plover, and swift fox are associated with prairie dog complexes.
Historically, the northern mixed-grass prairie was a disturbance-driven ecosystem in which fire, herbivory, and climate functioned as the primary disturbance factors, either singly or in combination. Following European settlement, livestock grazing, cropland conversion, elimination of fire, energy development, and other anthropogenic factors influenced species composition and abundance. Introduced and invasive species further affected plant and animal communities. The bison was a historical keystone species but has been extirpated in this area as a free-ranging herbivore. The loss of the bison and the reduction of prairie dog populations and fire as ecological drivers greatly influenced the character of the remaining native plant communities and altered wildlife habitats. Human development reduced habitat quality for area-sensitive species.
Within MLRA 61, the Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site provides upland grassland cover with an associated forb component. It was typically part of an expansive grassland landscape that included combinations of Clayey, Thin Upland, Shallow, Overflow, Subirrigated, and Terrace ecological sites.
This site provided habitat for species requiring unfragmented grassland. Important habitat features, and components found commonly or exclusively on this site may include sharp-tailed grouse leks; upland nesting habitat for grassland birds, forbs and insects for brood habitat; and a forage source for small and large herbivores. Many grassland and shrub steppe nesting bird populations are declining. Extirpated species include free-ranging American bison, grizzly bear, gray wolf, black-footed ferret, mountain plover, Rocky Mountain locust, and swift fox.
The majority of the Loamy 16-20” PZ ecological site has remained relatively intact and provides increasingly important habitat for grassland and shrub steppe nesting birds, small rodents, coyote, and a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, and annual brome grasses have impacted the biological integrity of the site for some grassland birds. Changes in historic fire regime and domestic grazing have impacted the forb/shrub/grass percentages.
Grazing Interpretations:
The following list suggests annual, initial stocking rates for average growing conditions. These estimates are conservative and should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of conservation planning. Commonly, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ecological site description). Therefore, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. More accurate estimates of carrying capacity 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. In consultation with the land manager, a more intensive grazing management program that results in improved harvest efficiencies and increased carrying capacity may be developed.
The following suggested initial stocking rates are based on 912 lb/acre (air-dry weight) per animal-unit-month (AUM) with a 25 percent harvest efficiency of preferred and desirable forage species (refer to USDA-NRCS, National Range and Pasture Handbook). An AUM is defined as the equivalent amount of forage required by a 1,000-pound cow, with or without calf, for one month.
Plant Community: Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Big Bluestem/Shrubs (1.1)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): 2,400
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): 0.66
Plant Community: Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Blue Grama/Shrubs (1.2)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): 1,800*
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): 0.49*
Plant Community: Blue Grama/Sedge (2.1)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): Variable*
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): Variable*
Plant Community: Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses (<15%)/Shrubs (4.1)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): Variable*
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): Variable*
Plant Community: All other plant communities identified in this document will have variable annual production values and will require on-site sampling to determine suggested initial stocking rates.
* Total annual production and stocking rates are highly variable and require onsite sampling.
Total onsite annual production may contain vegetation deemed undesirable or untargeted by the grazing animal. Therefore, AUM values may need to be reduced to reflect only preferred or desirable forage species.
Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage for livestock. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock likely has insufficient protein to meet livestock requirements. Added protein allows ruminants to better utilize the energy stored in grazed plant materials. A forage quality test (either directly or through fecal sampling) should be used to determine the level of supplementation needed.
Hydrological functions
Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic groups B and C. Infiltration and runoff potential for this site varies from moderate to high depending on soil hydrologic group, slope, and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75 percent 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 blue grama, buffalograss, bluegrass, or smooth brome will result in reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Areas where ground cover is less than 50 percent have the greatest potential to have reduced infiltration and higher runoff. Refer to the USDA-NRCS National Engineering Handbook, Part 630, for hydrologic soil groups, runoff quantities, and hydrologic curves.
Recreational uses
This site provides hunting, hiking, photography, bird watching, and other opportunities. The wide variety of plants that bloom from spring until fall have an aesthetic value that appeals to visitors.
Wood products
No appreciable wood products are present on the site.
Other products
Harvesting the seeds of native plants can provide additional income on this site.
Other information
Revision Notes: Provisional
This provisional ecological site concept has passed quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA) to ensure that the site meets the 2014 NESH standards for a “Provisional” ecological site description (ESD). This is an updated “Previously Approved” ESD that represented a first-generation tier of documentation that met all requirements as an “Approved” ESD as laid out in the 1997 (rev.1, 2003) National Range and Pasture Handbook (NRPH). The requirements for approved status changed with the release of the 2014 National Ecological Site Handbook (NESH). The “Previously Approved” ESD does not contain all tabular and narrative entries as required in the current “Approved” level of documentation, but it is expected that this ESD will continue refinement toward an “Approved” status.
Site Development and Testing Plan:
Future work, as described in an official project plan, is necessary to validate the information in this provisional ecological site description. The plan will include field activities for low-, medium-, and high-intensity sampling, soil correlations, and analysis of the data. Annual field reviews should be done by soil scientists and vegetation specialists. Final field review, peer review, quality control, and quality assurance reviews are required to produce the final document.
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; Cynthia Englebert, Range Management Specialist, Forest Service; George Gamblin, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Ryan Murray, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Cheryl Nielsen, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; L. Michael Stirling, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Jim Westerman, Soil Scientist, NRCS.
Other references
Cleland, D.T., J.A. Freeouf, J.E. Keys, G.J. Nowacki, C.A. Carpenter, and W.H McNab. 2007. Ecological subregions: Sections and subsections of the conterminous United States. USDA Forest Service, General Technical Report WO-76D. https://www.fs.fed.us/research/publications/misc/73326-wo-gtr-76d-cleland2007.pdf (accessed 31 January 2019).
Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of wetlands and deep-water habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service FWS/OBS-79/31.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2018.
EPA level III and level IV ecoregions of the conterminous United States. https://www.epa.gov/eco-research/level-iii-and-iv-ecoregions- conterminous-united-states (accessed 26 April 2018).
High Plains Regional Climate Center, University of Nebraska. 2018. http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/ (accessed 6 April 2018).
Larson, Gary E. and James R. Johnson. 1999. Plants of the Black Hills and Bear Lodge Mountains. South Dakota State University, College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences and Agriculture Experiment Station, Bulletin 732, Brookings, SD.
Toledo, D., M. Sanderson, K. Spaeth, J. Hendrickson, and J. Printz. 2014. Extent of Kentucky bluegrass and its effect on native plant species diversity and ecosystem services in the Northern Great Plains of the United States. Invasive Plant Science and Management. 7(4):543–522. Weed Science Society of America.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2018. Electronic field office technical guide. https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov (accessed 24 September 2018).
Soil Survey Staff. 2018. Official soil series descriptions. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/home/?cid=nrcs142p2_053587 (accessed 20 December 2018).
Soil Survey Staff. 2018. Web Soil Survey. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx (accessed 20 December 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2006. Land resource regions and major land resource areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. Agriculture Handbook 296. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs142p2_050898.pdf (accessed 17 January 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2014. National ecological site handbook, 1st ed. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/ref/?cid=nrcseprd1291232 (accessed 27 January 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2012. National engineering handbook, part 630. Hydrology chapters from e-Directives. https://directives.sc.egov.usda.gov/viewerFS.aspx?hid=21422 (accessed 17 January 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2018. Climate data. National Water and Climate Center. http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/ (accessed 2 December 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 1997. National range and pasture handbook, rev. 1, 2003. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb1043055.pdf (accessed 7 January 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2018. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center. http://nasis.nrcs.usda.gov (accessed 25 May 2018.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2018. PLANTS database. National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC. http://plants.usda.gov (accessed 27 December 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2007. National engineering handbook, part 654. Rosgen Stream Classification Technique – Supplemental Materials, Technical Supplement 3E. https://directives.sc.egov.usda.gov/OpenNonWebContent.aspx?content=17833.wba (accessed 4 March 2019).
Contributors
Stan C. Boltz
Rick L. Peterson
Approval
Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 7/17/2024
Acknowledgments
All ecological sites were written to the Provisional Level by Rick L. Peterson, ESS, Rapid City, SSO in FY20.
The ESDs were reviewed for quality control by Emily Helms, John Hartung, Mitch Faulkner, and Ryan Murray.
All ecological sites were then reviewed and approved at the Provisional Level by David Kraft, Regional ESS, Salina, KS in September 2020.
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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) | |
|---|---|
| Contact for lead author | |
| Date | 04/01/2005 |
| 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 -
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 is 15-25% occurring in small areas throughout site -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None -
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):
Plant cover and litter is at 75% or greater of soil surface and maintains soil surface integrity. Soil Stability class is anticipated to be 5 or greater. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Use Soil Series description for depth and color of A-horizon -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Grass canopy and basal cover should reduce raindrop impact and slow overland flow providing increased time for infiltration to occur. Healthy deep rooted native grasses enhance infiltration and reduce runoff. Infiltration is Moderate. -
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
No compaction layer or soil surface crusting 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:
Sub-dominant:
Other:
Additional:
Mid-stature Bunch grasses > Mid-stature Rhizomatous grasses > Short stature grasses/grasslikes = Forbs > Shrubs -
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Very Low -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
Average litter cover is 30-40% with depths of 0.25 to 1.0 inches -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
2000 lbs/ac -
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:
Blue grama, Big sagebrush, Annual bromes, Fringed sagewort, Prickly Pear, and Species found on Noxious Weed List -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All species are capable of reproducing
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