Saline Bottomland
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1A
Absence of disturbance and natural regeneration over time
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Transition T1B
Extensive soil disturbance
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Transition T2A
Extensive soil disturbance
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Restoration pathway R3A
Adequate rest and presence of native seed source
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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 is the reference or diagnostic community for the site. The description is based on early range site descriptions, clipping data, professional consensus of experienced range specialists, and analysis of field work.
The vegetation of the reference state may be highly variable from site to site depending on the degree of soil salinity. Generally, the site will be dominated by alkali sacaton and inland Saltgrass. Other grasses and forbs may occur depending on the level of salinity in the soil. These other plants may include switchgrass, western wheatgrass, Canada wildrye, and vine mesquite. Forbs may include ragweed, aster, and croton species.
Rangeland aboveground productivity in this state is estimated between 1,500 and 3,000 pounds per acre.
Description
This state is the result of invasion by mesquite trees. Herbaceous production may not be altered drastically as mesquite do not seem to shade out the herbaceous plant as much as other woodies. However, the presence of mesquite may have management implications depending on the land use and density. Control and or eradication of these trees can be costly. Careful consideration of infestation levels and desired management goals should be considered.
Description
In some areas, these sites have been cleared or cultivated. Often once the vegetation is removed, it can take a long time to revegetate. These areas become barren and subject to soil movement during heavy rains. Once some plants recover on the site, it may begin to resemble the original state(1). This process may take many years.
Mechanism
Without brush management, mesquite may invade and eventually dominate the site transitioning it to State 2.
Mechanism
If the soils on these sites are disturbed by cultivation or heavy equipment, they may take a very long time to re-vegetate, transitioning the site to State 3.
Mechanism
If the soils on these sites are disturbed by cultivation or heavy equipment, they may take a very long time to re-vegetate, transitioning the site to State 3.
Model keys
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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.