Shallow
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1A
Absence of disturbance, may be coupled with drought and excessive grazing pressure
More details -
Transition T1B
Removal of vegetation followed by seeding introduced forage species
More details -
Restoration pathway R2A
Introduction of historic disturbance intervals
More details -
Transition T2A
Removal of vegetation followed by seeding introduced forage species
More details -
Transition T3A
Absence of disturbance, may be coupled with drought and excessive grazing pressure
More details -
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Description
The reference state is considered to representative of the range of variation under pre-Euro settlement conditions. This state is characterized warm-season grasses and shrubs. Community phase changes are primarily driven by wildfire and periodic grazing.
Submodel
Mechanism
Heavy continuous grazing, lack of fire, and drought will transition this site into a Shrubland State (2). The site is characterized by greater than 30 percent woody canopy cover.
Mechanism
Land managers may wish to use this site as pasture or, less commonly, cropland. If woody species are present, brush management is necessary to remove trees and shrubs. Seedbed preparation and pasture planting are the final steps needed.
Mechanism
Prescribed grazing, prescribed burning, and brush management are required to restore the community back to a Grassland State (1). Removal of woody species below 30 percent allows more light and nutrients to herbaceous species. Reducing grazing pressure will allow plants to regain vigor and re-establish.
Mechanism
Land managers may wish to use this site as pasture or, less commonly, cropland. Brush management, followed by seedbed preparation and pasture planting are needed to create a successful pasture.
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.