Tight Sandy Loam
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 and natural regeneration over time, coupled with excessive grazing pressure
More details -
Transition T1B
Extensive soil disturbance followed by seeding with improved forage species
More details -
Restoration pathway R2A
Reintroduction of historic disturbance return intervals
More details -
Transition T2A
Extensive soil disturbance followed by seeding improved forage species
More details -
Transition T3A
Absence of disturbance and natural regeneration over time, coupled with excessive grazing pressure
More details -
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Mechanism
The transition from the Grassland State (1) to the Shrubland State (2) can happen within 5 to 10 years. This transition is driven by persistently dry weather conditions, grazing management, and the lack of fire and brush management practices. Overstocking with grazing animals will put pressure on the herbaceous plant component of the community. This will create a more favorable environment with bare ground and open spaces for woody plants to germinate and grow. If the woody component is not managed it will begin to dominate the landscape and out-compete grasses and forbs for water, sunlight, and other resources.
Mechanism
Land managers may want to utilize this site as cropland or pastureland. To achieve this transition from the Grassland State (1), brush management and heavy disking with a Rhome disk, or other heavy implement, will be necessary to incorporate the vegetation into the soil. Prescribed burning can also be used prior to the disking operation to eliminate excessive vegetation. After the land has been cleared and an appropriate seedbed prepared, the crop or pasture can be planted.
Mechanism
Brush management, either mechanical or chemical, is necessary to restore the site to the Grassland State. Removal of woody species to reduce canopy cover will allow light to the herbaceous species. Prescribed grazing and fire will also help.
Mechanism
Land managers may want to utilize this site as cropland or pastureland. To achieve this transition, practices such as dozing and raking will be necessary. After the land has been cleared and an appropriate seedbed prepared, the crop or pasture can be planted.
Model keys
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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.