Limestone Breaks
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
-
Transition T1A
Heavy, continuous grazing.
More details
Lack of fire. -
Restoration pathway R2A
Prescribed grazing.
More details
Prescribed fire. -
Transition T2A
Heavy, continuous grazing.
More details
Lack of fire. -
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Description
The Reference State is characterized by three plant community phases that represent the natural range of variability and disturbance regimes within the site. These plant community phases are maintained by a historic fire frequency (estimated to be on 15 to 20 year intervals), grazing by large ungulates, and adequate recovery periods.
Submodel
Description
The Blue Grama Dominant State is represented by one plant community phase. The tallgrasses and more palatable forbs and shrubs have been replaced by less palatable species. A major shift in species composition and plant functional groups has taken place. Nutrient and water cycles have been negatively affected due to the loss of nitrogen fixing forbs and deeper-rooted plants. Bare ground and soil erosion have increased. Rills and pedestaled plants with exposed roots are apparent.
The loss of dominant and subdominant structural/functional groups reduces the biodiversity and productivity.
Submodel
Description
This state has one community. Annuals have replaced most of the perennial grasses. Litter levels have been reduced substantially. Soil erosion and bare ground have increased and may be severe on steeper slopes. Biological integrity, watershed function, and soil stability are all impaired. This state is characterized by an impairment of all ecological functions.
Submodel
Mechanism
Heavy, continuous grazing without adequate recovery periods between grazing events and lack of fire shift this state to the Blue Grama Dominant State.
Mechanism
Prescribed grazing that allows for adequate recovery periods between grazing events and prescribed fire move this state to the Reference State. This transition may take upwards of 20 years or more to achieve.
Relevant conservation practices
| Practice | External resources |
|---|---|
|
Prescribed Burning |
|
|
Prescribed Grazing |
Model keys
Briefcase
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Ecological sites
Major Land Resource Areas
The Ecosystem Dynamics Interpretive Tool is an information system framework developed by the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and New Mexico State University.