Shallow Marsh
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
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- Transition 1A More details
- Restoration pathway 2A More details
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Description
This 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 reference, is dominated by grass-like species and forbs. Variations in annual precipitation, and length of time the site is ponded, greatly influence the species composition from year to year. During wet years the plant community will respond to higher surface water levels and cattails will increase. During dryer years the plant community will be dominated by obligate sedges and rushes. Grazing pressure on this site and surrounding sites also influence the plant community dynamics. Hoof action during wet periods can cause soil compaction and reduce rooting depth and soil saturation levels. Heavy animal concentrations on upland can increase runoff and sedimentation.
Submodel
Mechanism
Heavy continuous grazing, soil compaction, or heavy use surrounding the shallow marsh will lead to sedimentation will lead transition this State to the Degraded State (2.0).
Mechanism
Under long-term prescribed grazing, including extended rest (non-use) periods and avoiding grazing when hoof action would contribute to additional soil compaction and sedimentation, this plant community could return to the Reference State. Depending on the severity of compaction, sedimentation, and if adequate perennial plants exist, this change could take an extended period of time and may not meet management goals. The site may even require more comprehensive hydrology restoration activities.
Model keys
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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.