Mucky Floodplains
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Description
The Reference State of this ecological site is still a common occurrence, even though the hydrology of this site is dynamic, and despite the fact that hydrologic manipulations by people are numerous. There are two main community phases; the Sedges-Shrubs Phase is wetter and has less woody vegetation than the Sedges-Shrubs-Trees Phase.
Submodel
Description
The Ponded State is covered with water for a much longer time period than the Reference State, even though the Reference State is also subject to ponding, in addition to flooding. There are three main phases of this state, they are a response to water depth in three categories: Open Water Phase (water >5 feet deep); Emergent Phase with water depth of 2 to 5 feet; and the Frequently Ponded Phase that drains occasionally, it has a water depth of 0 to 2 feet. This ponding is a result of downstream dams made by beavers or people. Beavers are now a common animal in this region after having been nearly extirpated in the past. They prefer the low gradients streams that flow through this ecological site. Beaver dams can be considered beneficial if they impound water on this ecological site that would otherwise cause downstream flooding on developed sites. Large man-made reservoirs were also created to control flood peaks, as well as for recreational and industrial uses. These reservoirs (also called flowages) are well-known for their water level fluctuations.
Submodel
Model keys
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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.