Linear Meadow
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1A
Heavy continuous grazing, non-use, no fire, sedimentation
More details -
Transition T1B
Tillage, artificial drainage
More details -
Restoration pathway T2A
Long term prescribed grazing
More details -
Transition T2B
Tillage, artificial drainage
More details -
Restoration pathway T3A
Cropped and abandoned
More details -
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Description
The Reference State represents the natural range of variability that dominates the dynamics of this ecological site (ES). This state is typically co-dominated by cool-season grass and grass-like species, and warm-season grasses. Before Europeans settled in North America, the primary disturbance mechanisms for this site in the Reference condition included sporadic fire and grazing by large herding ungulates. Frequent surface fires (occurring every 3 to 5 years) and grazing coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. Today, the primary disturbance is from a lack of fire and concentrated livestock grazing. Grasses that are desirable for livestock and wildlife can decline and a corresponding increase in less desirable species will occur.
Submodel
Description
This state is characterized by the degradation of the biotic integrity of the site due to excessive disturbance resulting in dominance by highly competitive species such as reed canarygrass, and the invasion of non-native species. Loss of diversity and reduction of plant vigor and production have negatively impacted energy flow and nutrient cycling. Infiltration is reduced and native plant mortality is increased. As the disturbance level increases, native plant density decreases even more, giving way to annual species and invasive perennial species, and an increase in bare ground.
Submodel
Description
This state is characterized by the production of annual crops using a variety of tillage and cropping systems along with management practices. Cropping on this site is only possible during years with drier than normal precipitation or with artificial drainage (surface or subsurface).
Submodel
Mechanism
Sedimentation beyond normal levels due to increased flooding, non-use, no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years), or heavy continuous grazing will lead this state over a threshold to the 2.1 Reed Canarygrass-Spikerush-Fowl Bluegrass Plant Community.
Mechanism
Tillage and artificial drainage (surface and subsurface) causes a shift to the 3.1 Annual Crops Plant Community.
Mechanism
Favorable long-term prescribed grazing shifts this plant community to the Reference State (State 1). Wetland restoration techniques may be necessary to restore the biotic integrity and plant diversity and productivity.
Relevant conservation practices
| Practice | External resources |
|---|---|
|
Prescribed Grazing |
|
|
Wetland Restoration |
Mechanism
Tillage and artificial drainage (surface and subsurface) leads to the 3.1 Annual Crops Plant Community.
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.