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Ecological site R067AY178WY

Wetland (WL)

Last updated: 11/29/2024
Accessed: 12/22/2024

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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.

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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): 067A–Central High Plains, Northern Part

MLRA 67A-Central High Plains, Northern Part is located in southeastern Wyoming (58 percent), the southwestern portion of the Nebraska panhandle (38 percent), and extreme northeastern Colorado (4 percent). It is comprised of rolling plains, upland breaks, and river valleys. The major rivers are the North Platte and Laramie. The headwaters of these systems are in the Rocky Mountains. Other tributaries include Crow, Horse, and Lodgepole Creeks. This MLRA is traversed by Interstate 25 and Interstate 80, and by U.S. Highways 26, 30 and 85. Major land uses include rangeland (71 percent), cropland (21 percent), pasture and hayland (1 percent), urban (3 percent), and miscellaneous (4 percent). Cities in this area include Cheyenne, Torrington, and Wheatland, WY; and Kimball, Oshkosh, and Scottsbluff, NE. Land ownership is mostly private. Areas of interest include Scotts Bluff National Monument, Chimney Rock and Fort Laramie National Historic Sites; Hawk Springs, Lake Minatare, and Wildcat Hills State Recreation Areas; Ash Hollow and Guernsey State Parks.

The elevations in MLRA 67A range from approximately 3,300 to 6,200 feet. The average annual precipitation in this area ranges from 13 to17 inches per year, but may increase up to 18 inches per year, in localized areas. Precipitation occurs mostly during the growing season from rapidly developing thunderstorms. Mean annual air temperature ranges from 47 degrees Fahrenheit in the western part to 52 degrees Fahrenheit in the eastern part. Summer temperatures may exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures may drop to sub-zero, and snowfall varies from 20 to 50 inches per year.

Classification relationships

MLRA 67A is in the Western Great Plains Range and Irrigation Land Resource Region. It is in the High Plains Section, of the Great Plains Province, of the Interior Plains (USDA, 2006). MLRAs can be defined by climate, landscapes, geology, and annual precipitation zones (PZ). Other features such as landforms, soil properties, and key vegetation further refine these concepts, and are described at the Ecological Site Description (ESD) level.

Revision Notes
The Wetland (WL) 12-17 inch PZ ecological site was developed by an earlier version of the Wetland (WL) ESD (2005, updated 2008). The earlier version of the Wetland (WL) 12-17 inch Precipitation Zone ESD was based on input from NRCS (formerly Soil Conservation Service) and historical information obtained from the Wetland (WL) Range Site Description (1988) and earlier (1970). This ESD meets the Provisional requirements of the National Ecological Site Handbook (NESH). This ESD will continue refinement towards an Approved status according to the NESH.

Ecological site concept

The Wetland site is a run-on site that is not saline or alkaline and has the water table from 0 to 18 inches below the soil surface for part of the growing season.

Associated sites

R067AY106WY	Closed Depression (Cd) This ecological site is commonly adjacent.
R067AY124WY	Loamy Lowland (LyL) This ecological site is commonly adjacent.
R067AY126WY	Loamy Overflow (LyO) This ecological site is commonly adjacent.
R067AY152WY	Sandy Lowland (SyL) This ecological site is commonly adjacent.
R067AY174WY	Subirrigated (Sb) This ecological site is commonly adjacent.

Similar sites

R067AY174WY	Subirrigated (Sb) The Subirrigated Ecological Site has a water table ranging from 6 to 36 inches below the soil surface for part of the growing season.
R067AY142WY	Saline Subirrigated (SS) The Saline Subirrigated Ecological Site is saline or alkaline and has the water table 6 to 36 inches below the soil surface for part of the growing season.

R067AY174WY

Subirrigated (Sb)

The Subirrigated Ecological Site has a water table ranging from 6 to 36 inches below the soil surface for part of the growing season.

R067AY142WY

Saline Subirrigated (SS)

The Saline Subirrigated Ecological Site is saline or alkaline and has the water table 6 to 36 inches below the soil surface for part of the growing season.

Table 1. Dominant plant species

Tree	(1) Salix
Shrub	Not specified
Herbaceous	(1) Spartina pectinata (2) Carex nebrascensis

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Physiographic features

This site typically occurs on the floodplains or floodplain-steps of the river valleys.

Table 2. Representative physiographic features

Landforms	(1) Flood plain (2) Flood-plain step
Runoff class	Negligible to low
Flooding duration	Very brief (4 to 48 hours) to brief (2 to 7 days)
Flooding frequency	Occasional to frequent
Ponding frequency	None
Elevation	3,500 – 6,500 ft
Slope	3%
Water table depth	18 in
Aspect	Aspect is not a significant factor

Climatic features

Wide fluctuations in precipitation may occur from year to year, as well as occasional periods of drought (longer than one year in duration). Two-thirds of the annual precipitation occurs during the growing season from April to September. The mean annual air temperature (MAAT) ranges from 47 degrees Fahrenheit in the western part to 52 degrees Fahrenheit in the eastern part. Cold air outbreaks from Canada in winter move rapidly from northwest to southeast and account for extreme minimum temperatures. Chinook winds may also occur in winter and bring rapid rises in temperature. Extreme storms may occur during the winter, but most severely affect ranch operations during the late winter and spring months. High-intensity afternoon thunderstorms may arise in summer. Wind speed averages about 8 miles per hour, ranging from 10 during the spring to 7 during late summer. Daytime winds are generally stronger than nighttime and occasional strong storms may bring brief periods of high winds with gusts to more than 75 mph. The average length of the freeze-free period (28 degrees Fahrenheit) is 150 days from May 4 to October 1. The average frost-free period (32 degrees Fahrenheit) is 128 days from May 16 to September 21. Growing season increases from west to east (Wyoming to Nebraska). Growth of native cool-season plants begins about April 1 and continues to mid-June. Native warm-season plants begin growth about May 15 and continue to about August 15. Regrowth of cool-season plants occur in September in most years, depending upon moisture.

Table 3. Representative climatic features

Frost-free period (characteristic range)	85-117 days
Freeze-free period (characteristic range)	119-135 days
Precipitation total (characteristic range)	16-17 in
Frost-free period (actual range)	84-123 days
Freeze-free period (actual range)	116-137 days
Precipitation total (actual range)	14-18 in
Frost-free period (average)	103 days
Freeze-free period (average)	128 days
Precipitation total (average)	16 in

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 2. Monthly precipitation range

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 3. Monthly minimum temperature range

Characteristic range

Actual range

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Figure 4. Monthly maximum temperature range

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Figure 5. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature

Figure 6. Annual precipitation pattern

Figure 7. Annual average temperature pattern

Climate stations used

(1) CHUGWATER [USC00481730], Chugwater, WY
(2) OLD FT LARAMIE [USC00486852], Yoder, WY
(3) PHILLIPS [USC00487200], LaGrange, WY
(4) WHEATLAND 4 N [USC00489615], Wheatland, WY
(5) CHEYENNE [USW00024018], Cheyenne, WY
(6) SCOTTSBLUFF HEILIG AP [USW00024028], Scottsbluff, NE
(7) BRIDGEPORT [USC00251145], Bridgeport, NE
(8) HARRISBURG 12WNW [USC00253605], Harrisburg, NE
(9) KIMBALL 2NE [USC00254440], Kimball, NE
(10) OSHKOSH [USC00256385], Oshkosh, NE

Influencing water features

There is a seasonal water table that influences the kinds and amounts of vegetation on this site. All of the soils in this ESD are hydric soils.
Note: The water table in some areas is artificially induced, caused by seepage from nearby irrigation ditches, canals, and reservoirs.

Wetland Description (Cowardin System)
System Subsystem Class
Palustrine N/A Emergent Wetland
Note: This is a general overview for the site concept and is not a wetland determination.

Soil features

The soils on this site are typically very deep, poorly to somewhat poorly drained soils that formed from alluvium. They typically have a moderate to very rapid permeability class. The available water capacity is very low to moderate. Available water is the portion of water in a soil that can be readily absorbed by plant roots. The soil moisture regime is typically aquic. The soil temperature regime is mesic.

The surface layer of the soils in this site are typically loam or fine sandy loam. The surface layer ranges from a depth of 3 to 10 inches thick. The subsoil is variable, but may include fine sandy loam, loam, sand, sandy clay loam, fine sand, sand, or coarse sand. Rock fragments are typically less than 5 percent, but some soils may have up to 15 percent rock fragments. Soils in this site have carbonates at the surface, but usually are noncalcareous below the surface. These soils are typically not susceptible to erosion by water and wind due to the wetness of the soil profile by the seasonal water table. However, these areas may be a hazard of wind erosion if these areas are drained and the surface is not protected by vegetation.

Surface soil structure is typically granular, and structure below the surface ranges from massive and single grain but may include subangular blocky. Soil structure describes the manner in which soil particles are aggregated and defines the nature of the system of pores and channels in a soil.

The major soil series correlated to this ecological site include: Barney.

Other soil series that have been correlated to this site include: Almeria, Fluvaquentic Endoaquolls, and Typic Calciaquolls.

The soil attributes listed represent 0-40 inches in depth or to the first restrictive layer.

Note: Revisions to soil surveys are ongoing. For the most recent updates, visit the Web Soil Survey, the official site for soils information: http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx.

Table 4. Representative soil features

Parent material	(1) Alluvium
Surface texture	(1) Loam (2) Fine sandy loam
Drainage class	Poorly drained to somewhat poorly drained
Permeability class	Moderate to very rapid
Soil depth	80 in
Surface fragment cover <=3"	Not specified
Surface fragment cover >3"	Not specified
Available water capacity (0-40in)	2 – 6.4 in
Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-40in)	15%
Electrical conductivity (0-40in)	2 mmhos/cm
Sodium adsorption ratio (0-40in)	10
Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in)	6.6 – 8.4
Subsurface fragment volume <=3" (Depth not specified)	15%
Subsurface fragment volume >3" (Depth not specified)	Not specified

Ecological dynamics

The information in this ESD, including the State-and-Transition Diagram (STM)model, was developed using archeological and historical data, professional experience, and scientific studies. The information is representative of a dynamic set of plant communities that represent the complex interaction of several ecological processes. The plant composition has been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, areas protected from excessive disturbance, seasonal use pastures, short duration/time controlled grazing strategies, and historical accounts.

The Wetland ecological site is characterized by three states: Reference, Sod-bound, and Increased Bare Ground. The Reference State is characterized by warm-season rhizomatous tallgrass (prairie cordgrass), and cool-season grass-like (Nebraska sedge). Secondary grasses include cool-season rhizomatous midgrass (northern reedgrass), and cool-season bunchgrasses (reed canarygrass and slender wheatgrass) A minor component of grass-likes such as mountain rush (also known as Baltic rush), and other rush, spikerush, and bulrush species, and forbs and shrubs, are also present. (See the species composition list in this ESD). The Sod-bound State is characterized by mountain rush, increased cattails, and unpalatable grass-likes. The Increased Bare Ground State is characterized by remnant mountain rush, forbs such as smartweed and American licorice. Noxious weeds such as purple loosestrife may invade.

As this site deteriorates from a combination of frequent and severe grazing, species such as spike sedge and mountain rush increase, forming a cool season dominated plant community. Cattails increase. Mountain rush eventually become sod-bound. Grasses such as prairie cordgrass, northern reedgrass, and slender wheatgrass decrease in frequency and production and are eventually be removed from the site. Grasses such as reed canarygrass may increase. As the site continues to deteriorate, bare ground may increase depending on water table depth. Grasses such as foxtail barley, common reed (Phragmites spp.) and annual rabbitsfoot grass increase or invade. Forbs such as smartweed and American licorice increase. Noxious weeds also invade. Once these events have occurred, it is difficult for native perennial plants to reestablish.

The degree of grazing has a significant impact on the ecological dynamics of the site. This region was historically occupied by large grazing animals, such as bison, elk, pronghorn, and mule deer. Grazing by these large herbivores, along with climatic and seasonal weather fluctuations, had a major influence on the ecological dynamics of the site. Deer and pronghorn are widely distributed throughout the MLRA. Secondary influences of herbivory by species such as prairie dogs and other small rodents, insects, and root-feeding organisms continues to impact the vegetation.

Historically, grazing patterns by herds of large ungulates were driven by water distribution, precipitation events, drought events, and fire. It is believed that grazing periods would have been shorter, followed by longer recovery periods. These large migrating herds impacted the ecological processes of nutrient and hydrologic cycles, by urination, trampling (incorporation of litter into the soil surface), and breaking of surface crust, (which increases water infiltration).

Today, livestock grazing, especially beef cattle has been a major influence on the ecological dynamics of the site. Grazing management, coupled with the effects of annual climatic variations, largely dictates the plant communities for the site.

Recurrent drought has historically impacted the vegetation of this region. Changes in species composition vary depending upon the duration and severity of the drought cycle and prior grazing management. Drought events since 2002 have significantly increased mortality of blue grama and buffalograss in some locales.

This site developed with occasional fire as part of the ecological processes. Historic fire frequency (pre-industrial) is estimated at 10 to14 years (Guyette, 2012), randomly distributed, and started by lightning at various times throughout the growing season. Early human inhabitants also were likely to start fires for various reasons (deliberate or accidental). It is believed that fires were set as a management tool for attracting herds of large migratory herbivores (Stewart, 2002). The impact of fire over the past 100 years has been relatively insignificant due to the human control of wildfires and the lack of acceptance of prescribed fire as a management tool.

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

1. Reference

2. Sod Bound

3. Increased Bare Ground

T1A	-	Excessive grazing. Lack of fire.
T2A	-	Excessive grazing. Lack of fire.

State 1 submodel, plant communities

1.1. Prairie Cordgrass and Nebraska Sedge

1.2. Prairie Cordgrass and Nebraska Sedge, Low Plant Density

1.1A	-	Non-use. Lack of fire.
1.2A	-	Prescribed grazing. Prescribed fire.

State 2 submodel, plant communities

2.1. Narrowleaf Cattail, Broadleaf Cattail, and Mountain Rush

State 3 submodel, plant communities

3.1. American Licorice, Pennsylvania Smartweed, and Mountain Rush

State 1
Reference

The Reference state is characterized by two distinct plant community phases: Reference and Low Plant Density Plant communities. The plant communities, and various successional stages between them, represent the natural range of variability within the Reference State.

Dominant plant species

willow (Salix), tree
prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata), grass
Nebraska sedge (Carex nebrascensis), grass
bluejoint (Calamagrostis canadensis), grass

Community 1.1
Prairie Cordgrass and Nebraska Sedge

This is the interpretive plant community for the Wetland Ecological site. This community developed with grazing by large herbivores and is suited to grazing by domestic livestock. Historically, fires likely occurred infrequently, and were randomly distributed. This plant community can be found on areas where grazed plants receive adequate periods of recovery during the growing season. The potential vegetation consists of about 45 to 75 percent grasses, 20 to 35 percent grass-likes, 5 to 10 percent forbs, and 0 to 10 percent woody plants. The major grasses and grass-likes include prairie cordgrass, Nebraska sedge, and Northern reedgrass. Minor grasses include slender wheatgrass, reed canarygrass, native bluegrasses, American sloughgrass, and foxtail barley. A minor component of grass-likes such as mountain rush, sedge, flatsedge, spikerush, and bulrush species. Forbs such as spotted water hemlock, Virginia strawberry, horsetail, iris, and seaside arrowgrass; Pennsylvania smartweed, showy prairie gentian, cinquefoil, blue-eyed grass, narrowleaf- and broadleaf cattails. Woody species such as peachleaf and sandbar willow, are also present. In the 12 to 17 inch precipitation zone (PZ), the total annual production (air-dry weight) is about 5,500 pounds per acre during an average year, but ranges from about 5,000 pounds per acre in unfavorable years to about 6,000 pounds per acre in above-average years. Community dynamics (nutrient and water cycles, and energy flow) are functioning properly. Infiltration rates are moderate, and soil erosion is low. Litter is properly distributed where vegetative cover is continuous. Decadence and natural plant mortality are low. This community is resistant to many disturbances except continuous grazing, tillage or development into urban or other uses.

Dominant plant species

willow (Salix), tree
prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata), grass
Nebraska sedge (Carex nebrascensis), grass
bluejoint (Calamagrostis canadensis), grass

Figure 8. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)

Figure 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY1106, 12-14SP Free water sites w/warm - WL, Sb, SS.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	0	5	15	20	30	20	10	0	0	0

Community 1.2
Prairie Cordgrass and Nebraska Sedge, Low Plant Density

This plant community developed under the absence of grazing and/ fire. Plant species resemble the Reference Plant Community; however, frequency and production are reduced. A standing dead canopy may prevent sunlight from reaching plant crowns. Many of the available nutrients are tied up in standing dead plant material and litter. Eventually, litter levels can become high enough to cause decadence and mortality of the stand. Bunchgrasses, such as slender wheatgrass, typically develop dead centers, and rhizomatous grasses can form small decadent communities due to a lack of impact by grazing animals. The absence of animal traffic to break down litter slows nutrient recycling. Water flow patterns and pedestalling become apparent. Infiltration is reduced and runoff is increased. In advanced states of non-use or lack of fire, bare areas increase causing an erosion concern. Total annual production can vary substantially.

Dominant plant species

willow (Salix), tree
prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata), grass
Nebraska sedge (Carex nebrascensis), grass
bluejoint (Calamagrostis canadensis), grass

Figure 10. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY1103, 12-14SP Free water w/o warm - WL, Sb, SS.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	0	5	20	25	25	15	10	0	0	0

Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2

Non-use and lack of fire cause the Reference Plant Community to shift toward the Low Plant Density Community. Plant decadence and standing dead plant material impede energy flow. Initially, excess litter increase. Eventually, native plant density begins to decrease and annuals and introduced species may begin to invade. Water and nutrient cycles are impaired as a result of this community pathway.

Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1

The return of grazing with adequate recovery and normal fire frequency shifts this plant community to the Reference Plant Community. This change can occur in a relatively short time frame with the return of these disturbances.

Conservation practices

Prescribed Burning
Prescribed Grazing

State 2
Sod Bound

An ecological threshold has been crossed and a significant amount of production and diversity has been lost, compared to the Reference State. Significant biotic and soil changes have negatively impacted energy flow, and the nutrient and hydrologic cycles. This is a very stable state, resistant to change due to the high tolerance of Kentucky bluegrass to grazing, the development of a shallow root system (root pan), and subsequent changes in hydrology and nutrient cycling. The loss of other functional/structural groups such as warm and cool-season bunch and rhizomatous grasses, forbs, and shrubs, reduces the biodiversity productivity of this site.

Dominant plant species

willow (Salix), tree
mountain rush (Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis), grass
narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), other herbaceous
broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia), other herbaceous

Community 2.1
Narrowleaf Cattail, Broadleaf Cattail, and Mountain Rush

Prairie cordgrass, northern reedgrass, and Nebraska sedge have been removed. Low-growing unpalatable sedges and cattails have increased. Mountain rush persists in a sod-bound condition. Willows are present near the drier edges of the plant community. The plant community lacks diversity and is resistant to change. Energy flow, water, and mineral cycles have been impaired due to the loss of tallgrass species and deep-rooted forbs and shrubs. Soil compaction can be a concern if continuously grazed during wet cycles. Litter levels are very low and unevenly distributed. In the 12 to 17 inch PZ, the total annual production (air-dry weight) of this plant community is about 3,000 pounds per acre, but ranges from about 2,000 lbs. /acre in unfavorable years to about 4,000 lbs. /acre in above average-years.

Dominant plant species

willow (Salix), tree
mountain rush (Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis), grass
narrowleaf cattail (Typha angustifolia), other herbaceous
broadleaf cattail (Typha latifolia), other herbaceous

Figure 11. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY1103, 12-14SP Free water w/o warm - WL, Sb, SS.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	0	5	20	25	25	15	10	0	0	0

State 3
Increased Bare Ground

An ecological threshold has been crossed. The Increased Bare Ground state denotes changes in infiltration, runoff, aggregate stability, and species composition. The changes in water movement and the plant community affect changes in hydrologic functionality, biotic integrity, and soil and site stability. Infiltration, runoff, and soil erosion vary depending upon the vegetation present. Erosion and loss of organic matter and carbon reserves are concerns.

Dominant plant species

mountain rush (Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis), grass
American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), other herbaceous
Pennsylvania smartweed (Polygonum pensylvanicum), other herbaceous

Community 3.1
American Licorice, Pennsylvania Smartweed, and Mountain Rush

Mountain rush still dominates the community; however, areas of sod have been removed, resulting in a broken sod-bound appearance. Bare ground may be a concern if water table levels are low. Baltic rush, smartweed, American licorice, and cattails dominate this plant community. Noxious weeds, such as purple loosestrife may invade. Forage palatability for livestock is low. Continued heavy use causes soil compaction. Wind and water erosion may occur if bare ground has increased. Litter amounts are greatly reduced. Mineral crusting caused by raindrop impact disrupts surface soil aggregates, increasing ponding and slowing infiltration.

Dominant plant species

mountain rush (Juncus arcticus ssp. littoralis), grass
American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), other herbaceous
Pennsylvania smartweed (Polygonum pensylvanicum), other herbaceous

Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY1103, 12-14SP Free water w/o warm - WL, Sb, SS.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
0	0	0	5	20	25	25	15	10	0	0	0

Transition T1A
State 1 to 2

Frequent and severe defoliation without adequate recovery periods and lack of fire shifts this state across an ecological threshold to the Sod-bound State. Biotic integrity and hydrologic function are impaired as a result of this transition.

Transition T2A
State 2 to 3

Long-term, frequent, and severe defoliation without adequate recovery and lack of fire cause a shift across an ecological threshold to the Increased Bare Ground State. Erosion and loss of organic matter along with invasion of introduced plants and noxious weeds are resource concerns.

Additional community tables

Table 5. Community 1.1 plant community composition

Group	Common name	Symbol	Scientific name	Annual production (lb/acre)	Foliar cover (%)
Grass/Grasslike
1	12"-17"			3025–3575
	prairie cordgrass	SPPE	Spartina pectinata	2200–3025	–
	bluejoint	CACA4	Calamagrostis canadensis	550–1375	–
	northern reedgrass	CASTI3	Calamagrostis stricta ssp. inexpansa	275–825	–
2	12"-17"			275–550
	Grass, perennial	2GP	Grass, perennial	0–275	–
	slender wheatgrass	ELTR7	Elymus trachycaulus	0–275	–
	foxtail barley	HOJU	Hordeum jubatum	0–275	–
	reed canarygrass	PHAR3	Phalaris arundinacea	0–275	–
	bluegrass	POA	Poa	0–275	–
3	12"-17"			1100–1925
	Nebraska sedge	CANE2	Carex nebrascensis	550–1375	–
	sedge	CAREX	Carex	275–550	–
	bulrush	SCIRP	Scirpus	275–550	–
	spikerush	ELEOC	Eleocharis	0–275	–
	rush	JUNCU	Juncus	0–275	–
Forb
4	12"-17"			275–550
	Forb, perennial	2FP	Forb, perennial	0–275	–
	textile onion	ALTE	Allium textile	0–110	–
	aster	ASTER	Aster	0–110	–
	milkvetch	ASTRA	Astragalus	0–110	–
	water hemlock	CICUT	Cicuta	0–110	–
	poison hemlock	COMA2	Conium maculatum	0–110	–
	horsetail	EQUIS	Equisetum	0–110	–
	Virginia strawberry	FRVI	Fragaria virginiana	0–110	–
	American licorice	GLLE3	Glycyrrhiza lepidota	0–110	–
	iris	IRIS	Iris	0–110	–
	swamp smartweed	POHY2	Polygonum hydropiperoides	0–110	–
	Pennsylvania smartweed	POPE2	Polygonum pensylvanicum	0–110	–
	cinquefoil	POTEN	Potentilla	0–110	–
	blue-eyed grass	SISYR	Sisyrinchium	0–110	–
	arrowgrass	TRIGL	Triglochin	0–110	–
	narrowleaf cattail	TYAN	Typha angustifolia	0–110	–
	broadleaf cattail	TYLA	Typha latifolia	0–110	–
Tree
5	12"-17"			0–550
	willow	SALIX	Salix	0–550	–

Interpretations

Animal community

Wildlife Interpretations:

Reference Plant Community—Prairie Cordgrass, Nebraska Sedge:
The predominance of grasses in this plant community favors grazers and mixed-feeders, such as bison, elk, and antelope. Suitable thermal and escape cover for deer may be limited due to the low quantities of woody plants. This plant community may provide brood-rearing and foraging areas for sage grouse. Other birds that would frequent this plant community include red-winged blackbirds, sandhill cranes, Wilson snipe, western meadowlarks, and golden eagles. Many small mammals occur here.

Low Plant Density Community—Excessive Litter, Decadent Plants, and Standing Dead Canopy:
This community has reduced habitat value for most wildlife species found in the Reference Plant Community.

2.1 Community—Mountain Rush, Cattails:
This plant community may be useful for the same large grazers that would use the Reference Plant Community. However, the plant community composition is less diverse, and therefore less apt to meet the seasonal needs of these animals. It may provide some foraging opportunities for sage grouse when it occurs proximal to woody cover.

3.1 Community—Mountain Rush, Smartweed, American Licorice:
Due to the greatly reduced plant diversity of this site and impairment to the nutrient cycling and water infiltration processes, the wildlife community that uses this site is also greatly reduced. This community has low habitat value for most wildlife species.

Grazing Interpretations:

The following table is a guide to stocking rates for the plant communities described in the Wetland site. These are conservative estimates for initial planning. On-site conditions vary, and stocking rates should be adjusted based on range inventories, animal kind/class, forage availability (adjusted for slope and distance to water), and the type of grazing system (number of pastures, planned moves, etc.), all of which is determined in the conservation planning process.

The following stocking rates are based on the total annual forage production in a normal year multiplied by 25 percent harvest efficiency of preferred and desirable forage species, divided by 912 pounds of ingested air-dry vegetation for an animal unit per month (Natl. Range and Pasture Handbook, 1997). An animal unit month (AUM) is defined as the amount of forage required by one mature cow, for one month.
Plant Community (PC) Production (total lbs. /acre in a normal year) and Stocking Rate (AUMs/acre) are listed below:

Example: Reference PC – (5500) (1.5)
5,500 lbs. per acre X 25% Harvest Efficiency = 1,375 lbs. forage demand for one month. Then, 1,375 lbs. per acre/912 demand per AUM =1.5
Plant Community (PC) Production (lbs.ac), and Stocking Rate (AUM/Acre)

12-17” PZ:
Reference PC - (5500) (1.5)
2.1 PC - (3000) (0.82)

Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangelands in this area provide year-long forage under prescribed grazing for cattle, sheep, horses, and other herbivores. During the dormant period, livestock may need supplementation based on reliable forage analysis.

An on-site inventory is required prior to development of a grazing plan.

Hydrological functions

Climate is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic groups B and C, with localized areas in hydrologic group D. Infiltration and runoff potential for this site varies from moderate to high depending on soil hydrologic group and water table. Runoff will be high on this site since the soil may be saturated. (Refer to NRCS Section 4, National Engineering Handbook (USDA–NRCS, 1972–2012) for runoff quantities and hydrologic curves).

Rills and gullies should not typically be present. Water flow patterns should be barely distinguishable if at all present. Litter typically falls in place, and signs of movement are not common. Chemical and physical crusts are rare to non-existent. Cryptogamic crusts are present, but only cover 1 to 2 percent of the soil surface.

Recreational uses

This site provides hunting opportunities for upland game species. The wide variety of plants which 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

None noted.

Other information

Site Development & Testing Plan

General Data (MLRA and Revision Notes, Hierarchical Classification, Ecological Site Concept, Physiographic, Climate, and Water Features, and Soils Data):

Updated. All “Required” items complete to Provisional level.

Community Phase Data (Ecological Dynamics, STM, Transition & Recovery Pathways, Reference Plant Community, Species Composition List, Annual Production Table):

Updated. All “Required” items complete to Provisional level.

Annual Production Table is from the “Previously Approved” ESD (2008).

Growth Curves are from the “Previously Approved” ESD (2008).

The Annual Production Table, Species Composition List, and Growth Curves will be reviewed for future updates at Approved level.

Each Alternative State/Community:

Complete to Provisional level The Plant Communities Section will need to be further developed at the next Approved level.

Supporting Information (Site Interpretations, Assoc. & Similar Sites, Inventory Data References, Agency/State Correlation, References):

Updated. All “Required” items complete to Provisional level.
Wildlife Interpretations: Plant community names updated. Narrative is from “Previously Approved” ESD (2008). Wildlife Interpretations should be updated at the next Approved level.

Livestock Interpretations: Plant community names and stocking rates updated.

Hydrology, Recreational Uses, Wood Products, and Other Products carried over from previously “Approved” ESD (2008). The Hydrology Section will need to be updated at the next Approved level.

Plant Preferences tabled removed. Will be released as a technical guide notice by NE and WY State Offices in the future.

Existing NRI or 417 Inventory Data References updated. Very limited data from these sources. More field data collection is necessary to support this site concept.

Reference Sheet
Rangeland Health Reference Sheet carried over from previously “Approved” ESD (2008).
It will be updated at the next “Approved” level.

“Future work, as described in a project plan, to validate the information in this provisional ecological site description is needed. This will include field activities to collect low and medium intensity sampling, soil correlations, and analysis of that data. Annual field reviews should be done by soil scientists and vegetation specialists. A final field review, peer review, quality control, and quality assurance reviews of the ESD will be needed to produce the final document.” (NI 430_306 ESI and ESD, April, 2015)

Supporting information

Inventory data references

Date Source: 417s
Number of Records: 1
Sample Period: 1979
States: NE
Counties: Morrill

Information presented here has been derived from data collection on private and federal lands using:
• Double Sampling (clipped 2 of 5 plots)*
• Rangeland Health (Pellant et al., 2005)
• Soil Stability (Pellant et al., 2005)
• Line Point Intercept : Foliar canopy, basal cover (Forb, Graminoid, Shrub, subshrub, Lichen, Moss, Rock fragments, bare ground, % Litter) (Herrick et al., 2005)
• Soil pedon descriptions collected on site (Schoeneberger et al., 2012)

*NRCS double-sampling method, CO NRCS Similarity Index Worksheet 528(1).
Additional reconnaissance data collection using numerous ocular estimates and other inventory data; NRCS clipping data for USDA program support; Field observations from experienced range trained personnel. Specific data information is contained in individual landowner/user case files and other files located in county NRCS field offices.

References

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Stewart, O.C., H.T. Lewis, and M.K. Anderson. 2002. Forgotten Fires: Native Americans and the Transient Wilderness. University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, OK. 351p.

Other references

Anderson, R.C. 2006. Evolution and origin of the central grassland of North America: Climate, fire, and mammalian grazers. Journal of the Torrey Botanical Society 133:626–647.

Bragg, T.B. 1995. The physical environment of the Great Plains grasslands. In: A. Joern and K.H. Keeler (eds.) The changing prairie, Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK. pp. 49–81.

Branson, D.H. and G.A. Sword. 2010. An experimental analysis of grasshopper community responses to fire and livestock grazing in a northern mixed-grass prairie. Environmental Entomology 39:1441–1446.

Brinson, M.M. 1993. A hydrogeomorphic classification for wetlands. Technical Report WRP–DE–4. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS.

Coupland, R.T. 1958. The effects of fluctuations in weather upon the grasslands of the Great Plains. Botanical Review 24:273–317.

Davis, S.K., R.J. Fisher, S.L. Skinner, T.L. Shaffer, and R.M. Brigham. 2013. Songbird abundance in native and planted grassland varies with type and amount of grassland in the surrounding landscape. Journal of Wildlife Management
77:908–919.

DeLuca, T.H. and P. Lesica. 1996. Long-term harmful effects of crested wheatgrass on Great Plains grassland ecosystems. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 51:408–409.

Derner, J.D. and R.H. Hart. 2007. Grazing-induced modifications to peak standing crop in northern mixed-grass prairie. Rangeland Ecology and Management 60:270–276.

Derner, J.D. and A.J. Whitman. 2009. Plant interspaces resulting from contrasting grazing management in northern mixed-grass prairie: Implications for ecosystem function. Rangeland Ecology and Management 62:83–88.

Derner, J.D., W.K. Lauenroth, P. Stapp, and D.J. Augustine. 2009. Livestock as ecosystem engineers for grassland bird habitat in the western Great Plains of North America. Rangeland Ecology and Management 62:111–118.

Dillehay, T.D. 1974. Late Quaternary bison population changes on the southern Plains. Plains Anthropologist 19:180– 196.

Dormaar, J.F. and S. Smoliak. 1985. Recovery of vegetative cover and soil organic matter during revegetation of abandoned farmland in a semiarid climate. Journal of Range Management 38:487–491.

Harmoney, K.R. 2007. Grazing and burning Japanese brome (Bromus japonicus) on mixed grass rangelands. Rangeland Ecology and Management 60:479–486.

Heitschmidt, R.K. and L.T. Vermeire. 2005. An ecological and economic risk avoidance drought management decision support system. In: J.A. Milne (ed.) Pastoral systems in marginal environments, 20th International Grasslands Congress, July 2005. p. 178.

Knopf, F.L. 1996. Prairie legacies—Birds. In: F.B. Samson and F.L. Knopf (eds.) Prairie conservation: Preserving North America’s most endangered ecosystem, Island Press, Washington, DC. pp. 135–148.

Knopf, F.L. and F.B. Samson. 1997. Conservation of grassland vertebrates. In: F.B. Samson and F.L. Knopf (eds.) Ecology and conservation of Great Plains vertebrates: Ecological Studies 125, Springer-Verlag, New York, NY. pp. 273–289.

Lauenroth, W.K., O.E. Sala, D.P. Coffin, and T.B. Kirchner. 1994. The importance of soil water in recruitment of Bouteloua gracilis in the shortgrass steppe. Ecological Applications 4:741–749.

Laycock, W.A. 1988. History of grassland plowing and grass planting on the Great Plains. In: J.E. Mitchell (ed.) Impacts of the Conservation Reserve Program in the Great Plains—symposium proceedings, September 16–18, 1987. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, General Technical Report RM-158.

Malloch, D.W., K.A. Pirozynski, and P.H. Raven. 1980. Ecological and evolutionary significance of mycorrhizal symbioses in vascular plants (a review). Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 77:2113–2118.

Ogle, S.M., W.A. Reiners, and K.G. Gerow. 2003. Impacts of exotic annual brome grasses (Bromus spp.) on ecosystem properties of the northern mixed grass prairie. American Midland Naturalist 149:46–58.

Roath, L.R. 1988. Implications of land conversions and management for the future. In: J.E. Mitchell (ed.) Impacts of the Conservation Reserve Program in the Great Plains—symposium proceedings, September 16–18, 1987. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, General Technical Report RM-158.

Smoliak, S. and J.F. Dormaar. 1985. Productivity of Russian wildrye and crested wheatgrass and their effect on prairie soils. Journal of Range Management 38:403–405.

Smoliak, S., J.F. Dormaar, and A. Johnston. 1972. Long-term grazing effects on Stipa-Bouteloua prairie soils. Journal of Range Management 25:246–250.

Soil Science Division Staff. 2017. Soil survey manual. C. Ditzler, K. Scheffe, and H.C. Monger (eds.). USDA Handbook
18. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC.

Soil Survey Staff. Official Soil Series Descriptions. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Available online. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/home/?cid=nrcs142p2_053587. Accessed 15 November, 2017.

Soil Survey Staff. Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) database. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Soil Survey Staff. 2014. Keys to Soil Taxonomy, 12th edition. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Washington, DC.

Soil Survey Staff. 2018. Web Soil Survey. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Available online. https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/. Accessed 15 February, 2018.

Soller, D.R. 2001. Map showing the thickness and character of Quaternary sediments in the glaciated United States east of the Rocky Mountains. U.S. Geological Survey Miscellaneous Investigations Series I-1970-E, scale 1:3,500,000.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 1987. Corps of Engineers wetlands delineation manual. Wetlands Research Program Technical Report Y-87-1 Available online. http://www.lrh.usace.army.mil/Portals/38/docs/USACE%2087%20Wetland%20Delineation%20Manual.pdf. Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. Glossary of landform and geologic terms. National Soil Survey Handbook, Title 430-VI, Part 629.02c. Available online. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/ref/?cid=nrcs142p2_054242. Accessed 16 January, 2018.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2010a. Field indicators of hydric soils in the United States, version 7.0. L.M. Vasilas, G.W. Hurt, and C.V. Noble (eds). USDA-NRCS, in cooperation with the National Technical Committee for Hydric Soils.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2013a. Climate data. National Water and Climate Center. Available online. http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/climate. Accessed 13 October, 2017.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. National Ecological Site Handbook, Title 190, Part 630, 1st Ed. Available online. https://directives.sc.egov.usda.gov/. Accessed 15 September, 2017.

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.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 1997, revised 2003. National Range and Pasture Handbook. Available online. http://www.glti.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/publications/nrph.html. Accessed 26 February, 2018.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2013b. National Soil Information System. Available online. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/survey/geo/?cid=nrcs142p2_053552. Accessed 30 October, 2017.

U.S. Department of the Interior, Geological Survey. 2008. LANDFIRE 1.1.0 Vegetation Dynamics Models. Available online. http://landfire.cr.usgs.gov/viewer/.

U.S. Department of the Interior, Geological Survey. 2011. LANDFIRE 1.1.0 Existing Vegetation Types. Available online.

http://landfire.cr.usgs.gov/viewer/.

Willeke, G.E. 1994. The national drought atlas [CD ROM]. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Water Resources Support Center, Institute for Water Resources Report 94-NDS-4.

Wilson, S.D., and J.M. Shay. 1990. Competition, fire, and nutrients in a mixed-grass prairie. Ecology 71:1959–1967.

With, K.A. 2010. McCown’s longspur (Rhynchophanes mccownii). In: A. Poole (ed.) The birds of North America [online], Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY. https://birdsna.org/Species-Account/bna/home.

Additional References:

Augustine, D.J., J. Derner, D. Milchunas, D. Blumenthal, and L. Porensky. 2017. Grazing moderates increases in C3 grass abundance over seven decades across a soil texture gradient in shortgrass steppe. Journal of Vegetation Science, Doi:10.1111/jvs.12508, International Association of Vegetative Science

Butler, LD., J.B. Cropper, R.H. Johnson, A.J. Norman, G.L. Peacock, P.L. Shaver and K.E. Spaeth. 1997, revised 2003. National Range and Pasture Handbook. National Cartography and Geospatial Center’s Technical Publishing Team: Fort Worth, TX. Available online. http://www.glti.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/publications/nrph.html. Accessed 26 February, 2018.

Clark, J., E. Grimm, J. Donovan, S. Fritz, D. Engrstom, and J. Almendinger. 2002. Drought cycles and landscape responses to past aridity on prairies of the Northern Great Plains, USA. Ecology, 83(3), 595-601.

Collins, S. and S. Barber. (1985). Effects of disturbance on diversity in mixed-grass prairie. Vegetatio, 64, 87-94.

Cooperative climatological data summaries. NOAA. Western Regional Climate Center: Reno, NV. Available online. http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/climatedata/climsum. Accessed 16 November, 2017.

Egan, Timothy. 2006. The Worst Hard Time. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company: New York, NY.

Hart, R. and J. Hart. 1997. Rangelands of the Great Plains before European Settlement. Rangelands, 19(1), 4-11.

Hart, R. 2001. Plant biodiversity on shortgrass steppe after 55 years of zero, light, moderate, or heavy cattle grazing. Plant Ecology, 155, 111-118.

Pellant, M., P. Shaver, D.A. Pyke, J.E. Herrick. 2005. Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health, Version 4. BLM National Business Center Printed Materials Distribution Service: Denver, CO.

Mack, Richard N. and J.N. Thompson. 1982. Evolution in Steppe with Few Large, Hooved Mammals. The American Naturalist. 119, No. 6, 757-773.

Reyes-Fox, M., Stelzer H., Trlica M.J., McMaster, G.S., Andales, A.A., LeCain, D.R., and Morgan J.A. 2014. Elevated CO2 further lengthens growing season under warming conditions. Nature, April 23,2014. Available online. http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v510/n7504/full/nature13207.html. Accessed 1 March, 2017.

Schoeneberger, P.J., D.A. Wysockie, E.C. Benham, and Soil Survey Staff. 2012. Field book for describing and sampling soils, Version 3.0. Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Soil Survey Center: Lincoln, NE.

Stahl, David W., E.R. Cook, M.K. Cleaveland, M.D. Therrell, D.M. Meko, H.D. Grissino-Mayer, E. Watson, and B.H. Luckman. Tree-ring data document 16th century megadrought over North America. 2000. Eos, 81(12), 121-125.

Zelikova, Tamara Jane, D.M. Blumenthal, D.G. Williams, L. Souza, D.R. LeCain, J.Morgan. 2014. Long-term exposure to elevated CO2 enhances plant community stability by suppressing dominant plant species in a mixed-grass prairie. Ecology, 2014 issue at www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/pnas.1414659111

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2009. Part 630, Hydrology, National Engineering Handbook.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 1972-2012. National Engineering Handbook Hydrology Chapters. Available online. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/national/water/? &cid=stelprdb1043063. Accessed August, 2015.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. National Soil Survey Handbook title 430-VI. http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/ref/?cid=nrcs142p2_054242.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. Web Soil Survey. Available online. http://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx. Accessed 15 November, 2017.

Data collection for this ecological site was done in conjunction with the progressive soil surveys within the 67A Central High Plains (Northern Part) of Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado. It has been mapped and correlated with soils in the following soil surveys:

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.1994. Soil Survey of Banner County, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1997. Soil Survey of Cheyenne County, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1999. Soil Survey of Garden County, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 2005. Soil Survey of Kimball County, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1985. Soil Survey of Morrill County, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1968 Soil Survey of Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.2013. Soil Survey of Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1998. Soil Survey of Sioux County, Nebraska.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1981. Soil Survey of Goshen County, Northern Part, Wyoming.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1971. Soil Survey of Goshen County, Southern Part, Wyoming.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1983. Soil Survey of Laramie County, Eastern Part, Wyoming.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 2001. Soil Survey of Laramie County, Western Part, Wyoming.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 2003. Soil Survey of Platte County, Wyoming.

U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. 1982. Soil Survey of Weld County, Northern Part, Colorado.

For manuscripts of archived soil surveys, see: https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/WebSoilSurvey.aspx

Contributors

Kimberly Diller, Ecological Site Specialist, NRCS MLRA SSO, Pueblo CO
Andy Steinert, MLRA 67B Soil Survey Leader, NRCS MLRA SSO, Fort Morgan, CO
Doug Whisenhunt, Ecological Site Specialist, NRCS MLRA SSO, Pueblo CO

Approval

Kirt Walstad, 11/29/2024

Acknowledgments

Partners/Contributors:

David Cook, Rangeland Management Specialist, NRCS, Oshkosh, NE
George Gamblin, Rangeland Management Specialist, NRCS, Wheatland, WY
Cameron Clark, Resource Soil Scientist, NRCS, Douglas, WY
Angie Elg, Resource Soil Scientist, NRCS, Scottsbluff, NE
Tim Becket, Area Resource Conservationist, Douglas, WY
Mitchell Stephenson, Ph.D. Rangeland Management Specialist, UNL-Panhandle Research Station, Scottsbluff, NE
Kristin Dickinson, District Conservationist, NRCS, Sidney, NE
Rick Peterson, Ecological Site Inventory Specialist, SD-NRCS-MLRA SSO, Rapid City, SD

Program Support:

Nadine Bishop, NE State Rangeland Management Specialist/ QC, NRCS, Imperial, NE
John Hartung WY State Rangeland Management Specialist/ QC, NRCS, Casper, WY
David Kraft, NRCS MLRA Ecological Site Specialist-QA, Emporia, KS
James Bauchert, WY State Soil Scientist, WY-NRCS, Casper, WY
Neil Dominy, NE State Soil Scientist, NRCS, Lincoln, NE
Britt Weiser, NE State Resource Conservationist, NRCS, Lincoln, NE
Clayton Schmitz, WY State Resource Conservationist, NRCS, Casper, WY
Carla Green Adams, Editor, NRCS-SSR5, Denver, CO
Chad Remley, Regional Director, N. Great Plains Soil Survey, Salina, KS

Those involved in developing the 2008 version: Chuck Ring, Rangeland Management Specialist, WY-NRCS, Everett Bainter, WY State Rangeland Management Specialist, WY-NRCS

Non-discrimination statement
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email:
program.intake@usda.gov.

Rangeland health reference sheet

Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health is a qualitative assessment protocol used to determine ecosystem condition based on benchmark characteristics described in the Reference Sheet. A suite of 17 (or more) indicators are typically considered in an assessment. The ecological site(s) representative of an assessment location must be known prior to applying the protocol and must be verified based on soils and climate. Current plant community cannot be used to identify the ecological site.

Author(s)/participant(s)	Dave Cook, Kristin Dickinson, George Gamblin, John Hartung, Andy Steinert, Nadine Bishop
Contact for lead author
Date	11/19/2020
Approved by	Kirt Walstad
Approval date
Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on	Annual Production

Indicators

Number and extent of rills:
None. Rills are not expected on the site.
Presence of water flow patterns:
None. Water flow patterns are not expected on this site.
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
None. Erosional pedestals or terracettes are not expected on this site.
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground is less than 5 percent.
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
None. Gullies should not be present on this site.
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None. Wind-scoured and/or depositional areas are not present on the site.
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Litter should fall in place. Slight amount of movement of fine litter from water is possible, but not normal. Litter movement from wind is not expected.
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Soil aggregate stability ratings typically 5 to 6, normally 6. Surface organic matter adheres to the soil surface. Soil surface peds will typically retain structure indefinitely when dipped in distilled water.
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
The surface layer ranges from a depth of 3 to 10 inches (7.6-25.4 cm). Soil colors are gray (5/1) when dry and very dark gray (3/1) when moist. Soil surface structure is typically granular.
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
The functional/structural groups provide a combination of rooting depths and structure which positively influences infiltration. Combination of shallow and deep rooted species (mid & tall rhizomatous and tufted perennial cool season grasses) with fine and coarse roots positively influences infiltration.

The expected composition of the plant community is about 40 to 75 percent perennial grasses, 20 to 35 percent grass-likes, 5 to 10 percent forbs, and 0 to 10 percent shrubs.
The grass and grass-like component is made up of warm-season, tall, rhizomatous grasses (40-55%); grass-likes (20-35%); cool-season grasses (15-40%).
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
None. A compaction layer is not expected on this site.
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:
1. C4, tall, rhizomatous grasses – 2200-3025 #/ac (40-55%), 1 species minimum

Sub-dominant:
2. Grass-likes – 1100-1925 #/ac (20-35%), 3 species minimum
3. Native, C3, grasses – 825-2200 #/ac (15-40%), 2 species minimum

Other:
Minor:
4. Native, Perennial and Annual Forbs – 275-550#/ac (5-10%)
5. Trees – 0-550 #/ac (0-10%)

Additional:
12a. Relative Dominance:
Community 1.1: Native, tall, rhizomatous grasses > Native, C3 grasses > Grass-likes > Native, Perennial and Annual Forbs > or = Trees
12b. F/S Groups not expected for the site: Introduced annual grasses, perennial introduced and naturalized grasses, shrubs, coniferous trees.
12c. Number of F/S Groups: 5
12d. Species number in Dominant and Sub-dominant F/S Groups: 4
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Very little evidence of decadence or mortality. Bunch grasses have strong, healthy centers with less than 3 percent mortality and shrubs have few dead stems.
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
Average litter cover is 80 to 90 percent. Litter depths are expected to be 0.75 to 1.5 inches (1.9-3.8 cm).
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
Annual production ranges from 5,000 to 6,000 per acre on an air dry basis. Average annual production is 5,500 pounds per acre under normal precipitation and weather conditions.
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:
Purple loosestrife, Reed canarygrass, Russian Olive and others as they become known.

See:
Department of Agriculture Invasive Species Website:
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/agconservation/noxious-weed-species
Wyoming Weed and Pest Council Website: https://wyoweed.org/
Nebraska Invasive Species website: https://neinvasives.com/plants.
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All perennial species exhibit high vigor relative to recent weather conditions. Perennial grasses should have vigorous rhizomes or tillers; vegetative and reproductive structures are not stunted. All perennial species should be capable of reproducing annually.