The Reference state for the Closed Depression site within MLRA 67B exhibits four distinct plant community phases. These plant community phases are a reflection of the natural variability and grazing management affecting the ecological functioning of the site. It is diverse, stable, and productive. Litter is properly distributed with very little movement off-site and natural plant mortality is low. It is well suited to carbon sequestration, effective water cycle, wildlife use by many species, livestock use, and is aesthetically pleasing. This state is resistant to many disturbances except excessive grazing, lack of fire, mechanical disturbance, and long-term non-use.
Submodel
1.1. Western Wheatgrass and Blue Grama
1.2. Blue Grama and Western Wheatgrass
1.3. Western Wheatgrass and Blue Grama, Low Plant Density
In the Increased Bare Ground state, all perennial plants have been greatly reduced with only remnants of the most grazing tolerant species remaining. Litter levels are extremely low, and wind erosion can be a hazard due to increased bare ground. Mineral crusting caused by raindrop impact magnifies the situation by decreasing infiltration. Bare ground is a major concern. Erosion and loss of organic matter and carbon reserves are concerns. Nutrient and water cycles and energy flow are impaired.
Excessive grazing and lack of fire shifts this plant community across an ecological threshold to the Increased Bare Ground State.
Model keys
Briefcase
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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.
) icon wherever it occurs. Drag and drop items to reorder. Cookies are used to store briefcase items between browsing sessions. Because of this, the number of items that can be added to your briefcase is limited, and briefcase items added on one device and browser cannot be accessed from another device or browser. Users who do not wish to place cookies on their devices should not use the briefcase tool. Briefcase cookies serve no other purpose than described here and are deleted whenever browsing history is cleared.
