Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Ecological site R102BY012SD
Thin Upland
Last updated: 2/01/2024
Accessed: 12/22/2024
General information
Provisional. A provisional ecological site description has undergone quality control and quality assurance review. It contains a working state and transition model and enough information to identify the ecological site.
Figure 1. Mapped extent
Areas shown in blue indicate the maximum mapped extent of this ecological site. Other ecological sites likely occur within the highlighted areas. It is also possible for this ecological site to occur outside of highlighted areas if detailed soil survey has not been completed or recently updated.
MLRA notes
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 102B–Till Plains
The Till Plains (102B) is located within the Western Lake Section of the Central Lowland Province of the Interior Plains. It is entirely in South Dakota, encompassing 2,215 square miles (Figure 1). The elevation ranges from 1,140 to 1,880 feet. The MLRA is characterized by glaciated, nearly level to hilly plains populated by stagnation and end moraines, glacial outwash terraces, and floodplains as the major landforms. The dominant parent materials are silty drift, glacial till, glacial outwash, and alluvium. (USDA-NRCS, 2006)
The dominant soil order in this MLRA is Mollisols. The soils in the area dominantly have a mesic temperature regime, a udic ustic moisture regime and mixed or smectitic mineralogy. They generally are very deep, well drained to poorly drained, and clayey or loamy. This area is in the western area of the tall grass prairie and supports big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans), porcupine grass (Hesperostipa spartea), and green needlegrass (Nassella viridula) as the dominant native species. Cattails (Typha), prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinate), bulrush (Cyperaceae) and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea) are commonly found on the poorly drained soils. (USDA-NRCS, 2006).
Classification relationships
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): Till Plains (102B) (USDA-NRCS, 2006)
USFS Subregions: North Central Glaciated Plains Section (251B); Outer Coteau des Prairies (251Bb); Yankton Hills and Valleys (251Bf); Northwest Iowa Plains (251Bd); (Cleland et al., 2007).
US EPA Level IV Ecoregion: Prairie Coteau (46k); James River Lowland (46n); Loess Prairies (47a); Big Sioux Basin (46m) - (USEPA, 2013)
Ecological site concept
The Thin Upland ecological site occurs on the shoulder slopes in the upland areas. Soils are well drained and will effervesce with acid at or near the surface. Precipitation tends to runoff leaving less soil moisture for plant growth. Production is lower and species composition will tend towards more drought tolerant. In some areas the surface layer may consist of stony to extremely stony. Slopes can range from zero to 40 percent.
Vegetation in the Reference State includes little bluestem, needlegrasses, and prairie dropseed. Forbs include goldenrods, sageworts, heath aster, and scurfpeas. Non-native grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, quackgrass and invasive woody species such as Eastern redcedar may invade the site due to changes in disturbance regime.
Associated sites
| R102BY010SD |
Loamy These sites occur on upland areas. The soils are well drained and have less than 40 percent clay in the surface and subsoil. The central concept soil series are Egan and Wentworth, but other series are included. |
|---|---|
| R102BY020SD |
Loamy Overflow These sites occur in upland swales. The Soils are moderately well drained, which have water flow into and over/through the site. The central concept soil series are Trent and Viborg, but other series are included. |
Similar sites
| R102BY010SD |
Loamy The Loamy site occurs in a backslope landscape position and does not effervesce with acid at or near the surface. The Loamy site will have more big bluestem, less little bluestem, and higher production than the Thin Upland site. |
|---|
Table 1. Dominant plant species
| Tree |
Not specified |
|---|---|
| Shrub |
Not specified |
| Herbaceous |
(1) Schizachyrium scoparium |
Physiographic features
This site occurs on gently to steeply sloping uplands.
Figure 2. Site Distribution Map of the Thin Upland site in MLRA 102B.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
| Landforms |
(1)
Till plain
(2) Moraine (3) Knoll |
|---|---|
| Flooding frequency | None |
| Ponding frequency | None |
| Elevation | 1,100 – 1,900 ft |
| Slope | 3 – 35% |
| Water table depth | 48 – 80 in |
| Aspect | Aspect is not a significant factor |
Climatic features
Major Land Resource Area 102B is considered to have a continental climate with cold winters and relatively hot summers, low to moderate humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature may also abound. The climate is the result of the location of this MLRA near the geographic center of North America. There are few natural barriers on the Northern Great Plains and air masses move freely across the plains and account for rapid changes in temperature.
Annual precipitation typically ranges from 24 to 26 inches per year. The average annual temperature is about 46°F. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from about 14°F (Wentworth 2 WNW, South Dakota, to about 18°F (Canton 4 WNW, SD). July is the warmest month with temperatures averaging from about 72°F (Wentworth 2 WNW, SD), to about 73°F (Canton 4 WNW, SD). The range of normal average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 57°F. This large annual range attests to the continental nature of the climate of this area. Hourly winds are estimated to average about 11 miles per hour (mph) annually, ranging from about 13 mph during the spring to about 10 mph during the summer. Daytime winds are generally stronger than nighttime and occasional strong storms may bring brief periods of high winds with gusts to more than 50 mph.
Growth of cool-season plants begins in early to mid-March, slowing or ceasing in late June. Warm-season plants begin growth about mid-May and continue to early or mid-September. Green-up of cool-season plants may occur in September and October when adequate soil moisture is present.
Growth of cool-season plants begins in early to mid-March, slowing or ceasing in late June. Warm-season plants begin growth about mid-May and continue to early or mid-September. Greenup of cool-season plants may occur in September and October when adequate soil moisture is present.
Table 3. Representative climatic features
| Frost-free period (characteristic range) | 124-127 days |
|---|---|
| Freeze-free period (characteristic range) | 138-140 days |
| Precipitation total (characteristic range) | 26 in |
| Frost-free period (actual range) | 123-128 days |
| Freeze-free period (actual range) | 137-141 days |
| Precipitation total (actual range) | 26-27 in |
| Frost-free period (average) | 126 days |
| Freeze-free period (average) | 139 days |
| Precipitation total (average) | 26 in |
Figure 3. Monthly precipitation range
Figure 4. Monthly minimum temperature range
Figure 5. Monthly maximum temperature range
Figure 6. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
Figure 7. Annual precipitation pattern
Figure 8. Annual average temperature pattern
Climate stations used
-
(1) WENTWORTH 2.5 WNW [USC00399042], Wentworth, SD
-
(2) MADISON 2SE [USC00395090], Madison, SD
-
(3) MONTROSE 8N [USC00395738], Montrose, SD
-
(4) CANTON [USC00391392], Canton, SD
-
(5) CENTERVILLE 6 SE [USC00391579], Beresford, SD
Influencing water features
No riparian areas or wetland features are directly associated with this site.
Soil features
The features common to soils in this site are the loam, silt loam, or clay loam textured surface layers and slopes of three to 35 percent. The soils in this site are well-drained and formed in loamy till or loess. The surface layer is four to 12 inches thick. The texture of the subsurface layers ranges from loam to clay loam. The soils have a moderately slow to slow infiltration rate. These soils are typically calcareous at or near the surface. This site should show slight to no evidence of rills, wind scoured areas, or pedestalled plants. Water flow paths are broken, irregular in appearance, or discontinuous with numerous debris dams or vegetative barriers. The soil surface is stable and intact.
These soils are susceptible to wind and water erosion. The hazard of water erosion increases on slopes greater than about 15 percent. Loss of 50 percent or more of the surface layer of the soils on this site can result in a shift in species composition and production.
The central concept soil series for this site are Buse, Hattie, and Langhei, but other series are included.
Access Web Soil Survey (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/HomePage.htm) for specific local soils information.
Table 4. Representative soil features
| Surface texture |
(1) Loam (2) Silt loam (3) Clay loam |
|---|---|
| Family particle size |
(1) Loamy |
| Drainage class | Well drained |
| Permeability class | Slow to moderately slow |
| Soil depth | 80 in |
| Surface fragment cover <=3" | 9% |
| Surface fragment cover >3" | 10% |
| Available water capacity (0-40in) |
6 – 7 in |
| Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-40in) |
1 – 35% |
| Electrical conductivity (0-40in) |
4 mmhos/cm |
| Sodium adsorption ratio (0-40in) |
2 |
| Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in) |
6.6 – 9 |
| Subsurface fragment volume <=3" (Depth not specified) |
8% |
| Subsurface fragment volume >3" (Depth not specified) |
4% |
Ecological dynamics
State and Community Phases
The information in this Ecological Site Description, including the state-and-transition model (STM), was developed based on historical data, current field data, professional experience, and a review of the scientific literature. As a result, all possible scenarios or plant species may not be included. Key indicator plant species, disturbances, and ecological processes are described to inform land management decisions.
The site which is located in the Till Plains Region developed under Northern Great Plains climatic conditions and included natural influence of large herding herbivores and occasional fire. Changes will occur in the plant communities due to weather fluctuations and/or management actions. Under adverse impacts, a relatively rapid decline in vegetative vigor and composition can occur. Under favorable conditions the site has the potential to resemble the Reference State. Interpretations for this site are based primarily on the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupine Grass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase. This community phase and the Reference State have been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, areas protected from excessive disturbance, and areas under long-term rotational grazing regimes. Trends in plant community dynamics ranging from heavily grazed to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts also have been considered.
This ecological site (ES) has been grazed by domestic livestock since they have been introduced into the area. The introduction of domestic livestock and the use of fencing and reliable water sources have changed the ecological dynamics of this site. Continuous season-long grazing (during the typical growing season of May through October) and repeated seasonal grazing (e.g., every spring, every summer) without adequate recovery periods following grazing events causes departure from the 3.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase. Little bluestem, western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), and blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) will increase. Eventually blue grama, quackgrass (Elymus repens), and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) may develop into a sod. Indiangrass, big bluestem, porcupine grass, green needlegrass, sideoats grama, and little bluestem will decrease in frequency and production. Extended periods of nonuse and lack of fire will result in excessive litter and a plant community dominated by cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis), and green needlegrass. Extended periods of no surface fire could result in the invasion of conifers in which eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) and Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) will increase and could eventually dominate the site.
Following the state-and-transition diagram are narratives for each of the described states and community phases. These may not represent every possibility, but they are the most prevalent and repeatable states and community phases. The plant composition tables shown below have been developed from the best available knowledge at the time of this revision. As more data are collected, some of these community phases and states may be revised or removed, and new ones may be added. The main purpose for including the descriptions here is to capture the current knowledge and experience at the time of this revision.
The following is a diagram that illustrates the common plant community phases that can occur on the site and the transition and community pathways between them. The ecological processes will be discussed in more detail in the plant community descriptions following the diagram.
State and transition model
Figure 9. State-and-Transition Model for the Thin Upland site in MLRA 102B.
Figure 10. Legend for the Thin Upland site in MLRA 102B.
Figure 11. Matrix for the Thin Upland site in MLRA 102B.
More interactive model formats are also available.
View Interactive Models
More interactive model formats are also available.
View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective text
Ecosystem states
States 1, 5 and 6 (additional transitions)
States 2 and 6 (additional transitions)
State 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 6 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference State
The Reference State represents the natural range of variability that dominated the dynamics of this ecological site (ES). This state was dominated by warm-season grasses with cool-season grasses being subdominant. Prior to European settlement in North America, the primary disturbance mechanisms for this site in the Reference condition included periods of below and above average precipitation, periodic fire, and herbivory by insects and large ungulates. Timing of fires and herbivory coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. In some locations, this site likely received relatively heavy grazing pressure. Tall warm-season grasses would have declined and cool-season bunchgrasses and short to mid-statured warm-season grasses would have increased. Today, a similar state, the Native/Invaded State (State 2) can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning, and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest.
Community 1.1
Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed
Figure 12. Typical vegetation associated with the Reference Community of the Thin Upland site in MLRA 102B.
Interpretations are based primarily on the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase . The potential vegetation was about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and eight percent shrubs. The community was dominated by warm-season grasses, with cool-season grasses being subdominant. The major grasses included little bluestem, porcupinegrass, prairie dropseed, big bluestem, Indiangrass, sideoats grama, and green needlegrass. Other grass or grass-like species included plains muhly (Muhlenbergia cuspidata), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), Canada wildrye (Elymus Canadensis), needleandthread (Hesperostipa comata), slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus), western wheatgrass, blue grama, and threadleaf sedge (Carex filifolia). This plant community was resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allowed for high tolerance to drought. This was a sustainable plant community in regards to site and soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 13. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 5. Annual production by plant type
| Plant type | Low (lb/acre) |
Representative value (lb/acre) |
High (lb/acre) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grass/Grasslike | 1960 | 2784 | 3340 |
| Forb | 145 | 240 | 370 |
| Shrub/Vine | 95 | 176 | 290 |
| Total | 2200 | 3200 | 4000 |
Figure 14. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0214, Till Plains, warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant.. Warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant..
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
| 0 | 0 | 3 | 7 | 17 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Community 1.2
Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Porcupinegrass
This plant community evolved under heavy, continuous grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community was made up of approximately 75 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses included little bluestem, sideoats grama, and porcupinegrass. Grasses of secondary importance included big bluestem, green needlegrass, blue grama, western wheatgrass, prairie dropseed, and threadleaf sedge. Forbs commonly found in this plant community included goldenrod (Solidago), cudweed sagewort (Artemisia ludoviciana), heath aster (Symphotrichum ericoides), scurfpea (Psoralidium), Cuman ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya), and western yarrow (Achillea millefolium). This plant community had similar plant composition to the 3.2 Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Porcupinegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase. The main difference is that this plant community phase did not have the presence of non-native invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass. When compared to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase, little bluestem and sideoats grama increased. Production of tall warm-season grasses was reduced. This plant community was moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present were well adapted to grazing; however, species composition could be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component was intact, it tended to be resilient if the disturbance was not long-term. Most of the components of the ecological processes would have been functioning at optimum levels. However, the vigor and reproductive capability of the tall warm-season grasses would have been reduced due to grazing pressure or a combination of stressors. A reduction of this dominant functional group allowed for an increase in shorter-statured (and shallower rooted) species.
Figure 15. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0214, Till Plains, warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant.. Warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant..
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
| 0 | 0 | 3 | 7 | 17 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2
Heavy, continuous grazing which includes herbivory at moderate to heavy levels at the same time of year each year without adequate recovery periods, periods of below normal precipitation, and no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 years or more) will shift this community to the1.2 Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Porcupinegrass Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1
Prescribed grazing and/or prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (every 3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels and frequencies, or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase.
State 2
Degraded State
The Degraded State is the result of heavy, continuous grazing and the absence of periodic fire due to fire suppression. This state is dominated by little bluestem, blue grama, and sideoats grama. The blue grama can form a sod-like layer that effectively blocks introduction of other plants into the system. Taller cool-season species will decline and a corresponding increase in short statured grass will occur.
Community 2.1
Little Bluestem-Blue Grama-Sideoats Grama
This plant community evolved under heavy, continuous season grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community was made up of approximately 75 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses typically included little bluestem, blue grama and sideoats grama. Grasses of secondary importance included big bluestem, switchgrass, porcupinegrass, western wheatgrass, prairie dropseed, and threadleaf sedge. Forbs commonly found in this plant community included cudweed sagewort, goldenrod, and Cuman ragweed. When compared to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Green Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase, tall cool- and warm-season grasses were reduced, and the more grazing tolerant species such as blue grama, little bluestem, and sideoats grama were dominant on this plant community. This vegetation state was very resistant to change, especially if the disturbance continued and the short-statured species such as blue grama increased. The herbaceous species present were well adapted to grazing. This plant community was less productive than other phases.
Figure 16. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0214, Till Plains, warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant.. Warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant..
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
| 0 | 0 | 3 | 7 | 17 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
State 3
Native Invaded State
The Native Invaded State represents the more common range of variability that exists with higher levels of grazing management, but in the absence of periodic fire due to fire suppression. This state is dominated by cool- and warm-season grasses. It can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. Taller warm-season species can decline and a corresponding increase in short statured grass will occur.
Community 3.1
Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed
This plant community phase is similar to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase, but it also contains minor amounts of non-native invasive grass species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass (up to about 10 percent by air-dry weight). The potential vegetation is about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and eight percent shrubs. This community is dominated by warm-season grasses, with cool-season grasses being subdominant. The major grasses include little bluestem, porcupinegrass, prairie dropseed, big bluestem, Indiangrass, sideoats grama, and green needlegrass. Other grass or grass-like species include plains muhly, switchgrass, Canada wildrye, needle and thread, slender wheatgrass, western wheatgrass, blue grama, Kentucky bluegrass, and threadleaf sedge. This plant community is resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allows for higher tolerance to drought. This is a sustainable plant community in regards to site and soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 17. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 6. Annual production by plant type
| Plant type | Low (lb/acre) |
Representative value (lb/acre) |
High (lb/acre) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grass/Grasslike | 1830 | 2400 | 2730 |
| Shrub/Vine | 135 | 300 | 535 |
| Forb | 135 | 300 | 535 |
| Total | 2100 | 3000 | 3800 |
Figure 18. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0211, Till Plains, cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant..
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
| 0 | 0 | 4 | 12 | 25 | 36 | 10 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
Community 3.2
Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Porcupinegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass
This plant community is a result of heavy, continuous grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 75 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses include little bluestem, sideoats grama, porcupinegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass. Grasses of secondary importance include big bluestem, blue grama, western wheatgrass, prairie dropseed, and threadleaf sedge. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include goldenrod, cudweed sagewort, heath aster, scurfpea, Cuman ragweed, and western yarrow. When compared to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase, little bluestem, sideoats grama, and Kentucky bluegrass have increased. Production of tall warm-season grasses is reduced. This plant community is moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component is intact, it tends to be resilient if the disturbance is not long-term. Most of the components of the ecological processes are functioning at optimum levels. However, the vigor and reproductive capability of the tall warm-season grasses are reduced due to grazing pressure or a combination of stressors. A reduction of this dominant functional group allows for an increase in shorter-statured (and shallower rooted) species. The introduction of non-native invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass results in alterations to the soil profile. Organic matter levels tend to decrease and begin to be concentrated more in the surface layers, and the structure will begin to be modified. These changes favor the shallow-rooted species and hasten their eventual dominance if steps are not taken to reduce these species.
Figure 19. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 7. Annual production by plant type
| Plant type | Low (lb/acre) |
Representative value (lb/acre) |
High (lb/acre) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grass/Grasslike | 1175 | 1596 | 1955 |
| Forb | 90 | 190 | 330 |
| Shrub/Vine | 35 | 114 | 215 |
| Total | 1300 | 1900 | 2500 |
Figure 20. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0211, Till Plains, cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant..
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
| 0 | 0 | 4 | 12 | 25 | 36 | 10 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
Community 3.3
Little Bluestem-Kentucky Bluegrass
This plant community is a result of heavy, continuous grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 75 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses include little bluestem and Kentucky bluegrass. Grass and grass-like species of secondary importance include sideoats grama, blue grama, western wheatgrass, threadleaf sedge, green needlegrass, big bluestem, and quackgrass. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include goldenrod, cudweed sagewort, heath aster, scurfpea, Cuman ragweed, and western yarrow. When compared to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase, little bluestem and Kentucky bluegrass have increased. Production of mid- and tall warm- and cool-season grasses is reduced. This plant community is moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component is intact, it tends to be resilient if the disturbance is not long-term. A reduction of the dominant functional groups as found in the interpretive plant community phase allows for an increase in shorter-statured (and shallower rooted) species. The introduction of non-native invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass results in alterations to the soil profile. Organic matter levels tend to decrease and begin to be concentrated more in the surface layers, and the structure will begin to be modified. These changes favor the shallow-rooted species and hasten their eventual dominance if steps are not taken to reduce these species.
Pathway 3.1A
Community 3.1 to 3.2
Heavy, continuous grazing which includes herbivory at moderate to heavy levels at the same time of year each year without adequate recovery periods, or during periods of below normal precipitation will shift this community to the 3.2 Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Porcupinegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 3.2B
Community 3.2 to 3.1
Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing, and/or prescribed burning with late season fire (or at infrequent intervals that are greater than 5 years) will convert this plant community to the 3.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 3.2A
Community 3.2 to 3.3
Heavy, continuous grazing which includes herbivory at moderate to heavy levels at the same time of year each year without adequate recovery periods, or during periods of below normal precipitation will shift this community to the 3.3 Little Bluestem-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 3.3A
Community 3.3 to 3.2
Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing, and/or prescribed burning with late season fire (or at infrequent intervals that are greater than 5 years) will convert this plant community to the 3.2 Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Porcupinegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase.
State 4
Invaded State
The Invaded State is a result of encroachment mainly by invasive introduced cool-season grasses. The ecological processes are not functioning, especially the biotic processes and the hydrologic functions. The introduced cool-season grasses cause reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Preliminary studies would tend to indicate this threshold may exist when Kentucky bluegrass exceeds 30 percent of the plant community and native grasses represent less than 40 percent of the plant community composition. The opportunity for high intensity spring burns is severely reduced by early green up and increased moisture and humidity at the soil surface and grazing pressure cannot cause a reduction in sodgrass dominance. Production is limited to the sod forming species. Infiltration continues to decrease and runoff increases and energy capture into the system is restricted to early season low producing species. Nutrient cycling is limited by root depth of the dominant species.
Community 4.1
Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Forbs/Shrubs
This plant community phase is a result of extended periods of non-use and no fire or occasionally light levels of grazing over several years. It is characterized by dominance of smooth bromegrass and Kentucky bluegrass. The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A thick duff layer also accumulates at or above the soil surface and eventually a thatch-mat layer may develop at the surface. Nutrient cycling is greatly reduced and native plants have great difficulty becoming established. When dominated by smooth bromegrass, infiltration is moderately reduced and runoff is moderate. Production can be equal to or higher than the interpretive plant community. However, when dominated by Kentucky bluegrass, infiltration is greatly reduced and runoff is high. Production in this case will likely be significantly less. In either case, the period that palatability is high is relatively short as these cool-season species mature rapidly. Energy capture is also reduced. The dominance of these introduced species has been shown to alter the biotic component of the soil, organic matter levels, and eventually the soil structure. These alterations perpetuate the dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass and tend to make establishment of native species extremely difficult.
Community 4.2
Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Little Bluestem
This plant community phase is a result of heavy, continuous grazing or a combination of disturbances such as extended periods of below-average precipitation combined with heavy, continuous grazing. It is characterized by a dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and quackgrass and occasionally with significant levels of little bluestem. The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A relatively thick duff layer can sometimes accumulate at or above the soil surface and a thatch-mat layer often develops at the surface. Nutrient cycling is greatly reduced and native plants have great difficulty becoming established. Infiltration is greatly reduced and runoff is high. Production will be significantly reduced when compared to the interpretive plant community. The period that palatability is high is relatively short, as Kentucky bluegrass matures rapidly. Energy capture is also reduced. Biological activity in the soil is likely reduced significantly in this phase.
Community 4.3
Annual Pioneer-Perennial Pioneer
This plant community developed under continuous, heavy grazing or other excessive disturbances. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 40 to 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 20 to 60 percent forbs, and zero to five percent shrubs. The species present in this phase are highly variable, but often include non-native invasive and early seral species. Plant diversity is low (plant richness may be high but areas are often dominated by a few species). The ecological processes are difficult to restore because of the loss of plant diversity and overall soil disturbance. Soil erosion is potentially very high because of the bare ground and shallow rooted herbaceous plant community. Water runoff will increase and infiltration will decrease due to animal related soil compaction and loss of root mass due to low plant diversity and vigor. This plant community will require significant economic inputs and time to move towards another plant community. This movement is highly variable in its succession. This is due to the loss of diversity (including the loss of the seed bank), within the existing plant community, and the plant communities on adjacent sites.
Pathway 4.1A
Community 4.1 to 4.2
Heavy, continuous grazing which includes herbivory at moderate to heavy levels at the same time of year each year without adequate recovery periods, or during periods of below normal precipitation will shift this community to the 4.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 4.2A
Community 4.2 to 4.1
Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 4.1 Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Forbs/Shrubs Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 4.3A
Community 4.3 to 4.2
This community pathway occurs with the passage of time as successional processes take place and perennial plants gradually begin to establish on the site again. This pathway will lead to the 4.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase.
State 5
Conifer/Invaded State
This state is dominated (canopy exceeds 20 percent of total surface area) by areas where trees have become established or have encroached onto the site due to the absence of periodic fire. This state is dominated by eastern redcedar or Rocky Mountain juniper with cool-season grasses being subdominant. The plant community can develop into a closed canopy that impedes the reproductive capability of the major native perennial grass species. A single eastern redcedar tree with a seven foot crown diameter eliminates the equivalent of three pounds of forage. Further, the forage potential of a pasture with 250 mature eastern redcedar trees per acre (or one tree every thirteen feet) is reduce by 50 percent. It is suggested that reducing stocking rates by 10 percent for every 50 trees per acre. The increase in tree canopy which is a result of a disruption of the natural and human related fire regimes that occurred prior to European settlement of North America, which kept trees from encroaching much of the grasslands.
Community 5.1
Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Little Bluestem
This plant community evolved due to the invasion of conifers, such as eastern redcedar and Rocky Mountain juniper. This phase was a result of the absence of periodic fire. These events may cause a reduction in warm-season grasses and an increase in cool-season grasses and allow for the encroachment of conifers. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 50 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, 10 percent shrubs, and 30 percent trees. Dominant grasses and grass-likes include little bluestem, big bluestem, porcupinegrass, western wheatgrass, and blue grama. As the canopy increases, warm-season grasses tend to decrease as the cool-season grasses increase. Forbs will be diverse. Trees species will include eastern redcedar and Rocky Mountain juniper. When compared to the 1.1 Little Bluestem-Porcupinegrass-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community, coniferous trees have increased significantly and herbaceous component has decreased. This plant community is susceptible to the encroachment of eastern redcedar and Rocky Mountain juniper.
Community 5.2
Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Kentucky Bluegrass
This plant community phase is a result of heavy, continuous seasonal grazing or heavy, continuous season-long grazing or non-use and/or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years). When compared to the 5.1 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Little Bluestem Plant Community, the amount of non-native invasive cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass have increased significantly. It is characterized by a dominance of Kentucky bluegrass, smooth bromegrass, and blue grama. The dominance of Kentucky bluegrass is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A relatively thick duff layer can sometimes accumulate at or above the soil surface and a thatch-mat layer often develops at the surface. Production is limited to the sod forming species. The period that palatability is high is relatively short, as Kentucky bluegrass matures rapidly. Infiltration continues to decrease and runoff increases, energy capture into the system is restricted to early season low producing species. Nutrient cycling is limited by root depth of the dominate species. Biological activity in the soil is likely reduced significantly in this phase.
Community 5.3
Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper
This plant community phase is a result of no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years). Coniferous trees have increased significantly, and the herbaceous component has decreased. With the dominance of the coniferous trees such as eastern redcedar and Rocky Mountain juniper, the canopy covers the area and grass species are unable to survive. Grass production for livestock is severely limited. Prescribed burning before the juniper species reach maturity and are still susceptible to fire ( five foot in height), or mechanical brush management can be used to maintain or recover 5.3 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 5.1A
Community 5.1 to 5.2
Non-use and/or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density), heavy, continuous grazing, or invasion of non-native plant species will shift this plant community to the 5.2 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 5.2A
Community 5.2 to 5.3
Non-use and/or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density), heavy, continuous grazing, or invasion of non-native plant species will shift this plant community to the 5.3 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper Plant Community Phase.
State 6
Crop Production State
This state is characterized by the production of annual crops using a variety of tillage and cropping systems along with management practices.
Community 6.1
Annual Crops
This plant community developed with the use of a variety of tillage and cropping systems for the production of annual crops including corn, soybeans, wheat, and a variety of other crops.
Transition T1A
State 1 to 2
Heavy, continuous grazing (stocking levels well above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season, and often at the same time of year each year, typically beginning early in the season) will convert this plant community to the 2.1 Little Bluestem-Blue Grama-Sideoats Grama Plant Community Phase within the Degraded State (State 2).
Transition T1B
State 1 to 3
Non-use and/or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density), heavy, continuous grazing, or invasion of non-native plant species will lead this state over a threshold resulting in the Native/Invaded State (State 3).
Transition T1C
State 1 to 5
Non-use and/or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density), heavy, continuous grazing, and invasion of conifer will likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 5.1 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase within the Conifer/Invaded State (State 5).
Transition T1D
State 1 to 6
Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 6.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 6).
Transition T2a
State 2 to 3
Non-use and no fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years) will likely lead this state over a threshold resulting in the 3.1 Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky Bluegrass/Forbs/Shrubs Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3).
Transition T2A
State 2 to 6
Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 6.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 6).
Restoration pathway R3
State 3 to 2
Long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2). Pest management (i.e., herbicide) may also be needed to suppress cool-season invasive grasses. This will likely take a long period of time possibly up to 10 years or more, and recovery may not be attainable. Success depends on whether native reproductive propagules remain intact on the site. A seeding of native species may be the only avenue to restore this plant community to one resembling a community within the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Grazing |
|---|
Transition T3A, T3B
State 3 to 4
T3A – Non-use and/or no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years) causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density, will likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Forbs/Shrubs Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 4). T3B – Heavy, continuous grazing (stocking levels well above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season and often at the same time of year each year), will likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 4.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 4). Grazing repeatedly in the early growing season can expedite this shift by causing mechanical disturbance due to trampling.
Transition T3C
State 3 to 6
Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 6.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 6).
Restoration pathway T4A
State 4 to 3
Long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) coupled with prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (every 3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 3).
Transition T4C
State 4 to 5
No surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density) and invasion of conifer will likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 5.2 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase within the Conifer/Invaded State (State 5).
Transition T4B
State 4 to 6
Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 6.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 6).
Restoration pathway T5A
State 5 to 1
Brush management which would include the mechanical removal of the conifers, coupled with prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (every 3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels may lead this 5.1 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase within the Conifer/Invaded State (State 5) over a threshold to the Reference State (State 1).
Restoration pathway T5B, T5D
State 5 to 3
T5B – Brush management which would include the mechanical removal of the conifers, coupled with prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (every 3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels may lead this 4.2 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase within the Conifer/Invaded State (State 4) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2). T5D – Brush management which would include the mechanical removal of the conifers, coupled with prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (every 3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels may lead this 5.3 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper Plant Community Phase within the Conifer/Invaded State (State 5) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 3).
Restoration pathway T5C
State 5 to 4
Brush management which would include the mechanical removal of the conifers may lead this 5.2 Eastern Redcedar-Rocky Mountain Juniper/Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase within the Conifer/Invaded State (State 5) over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 4).
Transition T5E
State 5 to 6
Brush management which would include the mechanical removal of the conifers, coupled with tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 5.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 5).
Restoration pathway T6A
State 6 to 3
Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 6) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 3).
Restoration pathway T6B, T6C
State 6 to 4
T6B – Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 6) over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 4). T6C – Cropping followed by abandonment may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the 4.3 Annual Pioneer- Perennial Pioneer Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 4).
Additional community tables
Table 8. Community 1.1 plant community composition
| Group | Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Annual production (lb/acre) | Foliar cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/Grasslike
|
||||||
| 1 | Mid Warm-season Grasses | 800–1600 | ||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 480–1120 | – | ||
| prairie dropseed | SPHE | Sporobolus heterolepis | 160–480 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 160–480 | – | ||
| plains muhly | MUCU3 | Muhlenbergia cuspidata | 32–160 | – | ||
| 2 | Tall Warm-season Grasses | 320–800 | ||||
| big bluestem | ANGE | Andropogon gerardii | 160–480 | – | ||
| Indiangrass | SONU2 | Sorghastrum nutans | 160–480 | – | ||
| switchgrass | PAVI2 | Panicum virgatum | 0–160 | – | ||
| 3 | Cool-season Bunchgrasses | 320–640 | ||||
| porcupinegrass | HESP11 | Hesperostipa spartea | 160–480 | – | ||
| green needlegrass | NAVI4 | Nassella viridula | 96–320 | – | ||
| needle and thread | HECOC8 | Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata | 32–160 | – | ||
| Canada wildrye | ELCA4 | Elymus canadensis | 32–96 | – | ||
| 4 | Wheatgrass | 64–160 | ||||
| slender wheatgrass | ELTR7 | Elymus trachycaulus | 64–160 | – | ||
| western wheatgrass | PASM | Pascopyrum smithii | 0–96 | – | ||
| 5 | Other Native Grasses | 64–160 | ||||
| Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 2GRAM | Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 0–160 | – | ||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 32–96 | – | ||
| prairie Junegrass | KOMA | Koeleria macrantha | 32–96 | – | ||
| Scribner's rosette grass | DIOLS | Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum | 0–64 | – | ||
| 6 | Grass-likes | 32–96 | ||||
| threadleaf sedge | CAFI | Carex filifolia | 32–96 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–64 | – | ||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 7 | Forbs | 160–320 | ||||
| Forb, native | 2FN | Forb, native | 32–96 | – | ||
| blacksamson echinacea | ECAN2 | Echinacea angustifolia | 32–96 | – | ||
| stiff sunflower | HEPA19 | Helianthus pauciflorus | 32–64 | – | ||
| blazing star | LIATR | Liatris | 32–64 | – | ||
| Indian breadroot | PEDIO2 | Pediomelum | 0–64 | – | ||
| scurfpea | PSORA2 | Psoralidium | 32–64 | – | ||
| cutleaf anemone | PUPAM | Pulsatilla patens ssp. multifida | 32–64 | – | ||
| upright prairie coneflower | RACO3 | Ratibida columnifera | 32–64 | – | ||
| compassplant | SILA3 | Silphium laciniatum | 32–64 | – | ||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 32–64 | – | ||
| white heath aster | SYER | Symphyotrichum ericoides | 32–64 | – | ||
| purple prairie clover | DAPU5 | Dalea purpurea | 32–64 | – | ||
| American vetch | VIAM | Vicia americana | 32–64 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 32–64 | – | ||
| Nuttall's sensitive-briar | MINU6 | Mimosa nuttallii | 32–64 | – | ||
| purple locoweed | OXLA3 | Oxytropis lambertii | 0–32 | – | ||
| milkvetch | ASTRA | Astragalus | 0–32 | – | ||
| wavyleaf thistle | CIUN | Cirsium undulatum | 0–32 | – | ||
| aromatic aster | SYOB | Symphyotrichum oblongifolium | 0–32 | – | ||
| lacy tansyaster | MAPI | Machaeranthera pinnatifida | 0–32 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 0–32 | – | ||
| onion | ALLIU | Allium | 0–32 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 0–32 | – | ||
| pussytoes | ANTEN | Antennaria | 0–32 | – | ||
| field sagewort | ARCA12 | Artemisia campestris | 0–32 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 8 | Shrubs | 96–256 | ||||
| leadplant | AMCA6 | Amorpha canescens | 32–128 | – | ||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–64 | – | ||
| Saskatoon serviceberry | AMAL2 | Amelanchier alnifolia | 0–64 | – | ||
| smooth sumac | RHGL | Rhus glabra | 0–64 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 32–64 | – | ||
| snowberry | SYMPH | Symphoricarpos | 32–64 | – | ||
| prairie sagewort | ARFR4 | Artemisia frigida | 0–32 | – | ||
Table 9. Community 3.1 plant community composition
| Group | Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Annual production (lb/acre) | Foliar cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/Grasslike
|
||||||
| 1 | Mid Warm-season Grasses | 0–300 | ||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 0–240 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 0–150 | – | ||
| 2 | Tall Warm-season Grasses | 0–150 | ||||
| big bluestem | ANGE | Andropogon gerardii | 0–150 | – | ||
| 3 | Cool-season Bunchgrasses | 0–240 | ||||
| green needlegrass | NAVI4 | Nassella viridula | 0–240 | – | ||
| needle and thread | HECOC8 | Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata | 0–90 | – | ||
| Canada wildrye | ELCA4 | Elymus canadensis | 0–60 | – | ||
| 4 | Wheatgrass | 0–210 | ||||
| western wheatgrass | PASM | Pascopyrum smithii | 0–210 | – | ||
| slender wheatgrass | ELTR7 | Elymus trachycaulus | 0–90 | – | ||
| 5 | Other Native Grasses | 0–150 | ||||
| Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 2GRAM | Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 0–150 | – | ||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 0–120 | – | ||
| Scribner's rosette grass | DIOLS | Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum | 0–30 | – | ||
| prairie Junegrass | KOMA | Koeleria macrantha | 0–30 | – | ||
| 6 | Grass-likes | 30–150 | ||||
| threadleaf sedge | CAFI | Carex filifolia | 30–150 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–60 | – | ||
| 7 | Non-Native Grasses | 900–1800 | ||||
| smooth brome | BRIN2 | Bromus inermis | 450–1650 | – | ||
| Kentucky bluegrass | POPR | Poa pratensis | 150–1050 | – | ||
| quackgrass | ELRE4 | Elymus repens | 0–180 | – | ||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 8 | Forbs | 150–450 | ||||
| Forb, introduced | 2FI | Forb, introduced | 30–300 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 30–180 | – | ||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 30–180 | – | ||
| white heath aster | SYER | Symphyotrichum ericoides | 30–120 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 30–120 | – | ||
| scurfpea | PSORA2 | Psoralidium | 30–120 | – | ||
| Forb, native | 2FN | Forb, native | 0–90 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 0–60 | – | ||
| pussytoes | ANTEN | Antennaria | 0–30 | – | ||
| field sagewort | ARCA12 | Artemisia campestris | 0–30 | – | ||
| American vetch | VIAM | Vicia americana | 0–30 | – | ||
| blazing star | LIATR | Liatris | 0–30 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 9 | Shrubs | 150–450 | ||||
| snowberry | SYMPH | Symphoricarpos | 150–450 | – | ||
| smooth sumac | RHGL | Rhus glabra | 0–300 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 0–60 | – | ||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–60 | – | ||
| prairie sagewort | ARFR4 | Artemisia frigida | 0–30 | – | ||
Table 10. Community 3.2 plant community composition
| Group | Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Annual production (lb/acre) | Foliar cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/Grasslike
|
||||||
| 1 | Mid Warm-season Grasses | 19–228 | ||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | 19–228 | – | ||
| sideoats grama | BOCU | Bouteloua curtipendula | 0–57 | – | ||
| 2 | Tall Warm-season Grasses | 0–57 | ||||
| big bluestem | ANGE | Andropogon gerardii | 0–57 | – | ||
| switchgrass | PAVI2 | Panicum virgatum | 0–38 | – | ||
| 3 | Cool-season Bunchgrasses | 0–57 | ||||
| green needlegrass | NAVI4 | Nassella viridula | 0–57 | – | ||
| needle and thread | HECOC8 | Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata | 0–38 | – | ||
| 4 | Wheatgrass | 0–38 | ||||
| western wheatgrass | PASM | Pascopyrum smithii | 0–38 | – | ||
| 5 | Other Native Grasses | 0–95 | ||||
| blue grama | BOGR2 | Bouteloua gracilis | 0–95 | – | ||
| Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 2GRAM | Graminoid (grass or grass-like) | 0–57 | – | ||
| Scribner's rosette grass | DIOLS | Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum | 0–19 | – | ||
| prairie Junegrass | KOMA | Koeleria macrantha | 0–19 | – | ||
| 6 | Grass-likes | 38–190 | ||||
| threadleaf sedge | CAFI | Carex filifolia | 38–190 | – | ||
| Grass-like (not a true grass) | 2GL | Grass-like (not a true grass) | 0–38 | – | ||
| 7 | Non-Native Grasses | 665–1330 | ||||
| Kentucky bluegrass | POPR | Poa pratensis | 380–1140 | – | ||
| quackgrass | ELRE4 | Elymus repens | 95–570 | – | ||
| smooth brome | BRIN2 | Bromus inermis | 19–133 | – | ||
|
Forb
|
||||||
| 8 | Forbs | 95–285 | ||||
| goldenrod | SOLID | Solidago | 19–114 | – | ||
| Forb, introduced | 2FI | Forb, introduced | 19–114 | – | ||
| white sagebrush | ARLU | Artemisia ludoviciana | 19–114 | – | ||
| western yarrow | ACMIO | Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis | 19–76 | – | ||
| Cuman ragweed | AMPS | Ambrosia psilostachya | 19–76 | – | ||
| white heath aster | SYER | Symphyotrichum ericoides | 19–76 | – | ||
| scurfpea | PSORA2 | Psoralidium | 19–57 | – | ||
| Forb, native | 2FN | Forb, native | 0–38 | – | ||
| pussytoes | ANTEN | Antennaria | 0–38 | – | ||
| field sagewort | ARCA12 | Artemisia campestris | 0–38 | – | ||
|
Shrub/Vine
|
||||||
| 9 | Shrubs | 38–190 | ||||
| snowberry | SYMPH | Symphoricarpos | 19–114 | – | ||
| prairie sagewort | ARFR4 | Artemisia frigida | 19–76 | – | ||
| smooth sumac | RHGL | Rhus glabra | 0–76 | – | ||
| Shrub (>.5m) | 2SHRUB | Shrub (>.5m) | 0–38 | – | ||
| rose | ROSA5 | Rosa | 0–19 | – | ||
Interpretations
Animal community
Animal Community – Grazing Interpretations
The following table lists annual, suggested initial stocking rates with average growing conditions. These are conservative estimates that should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of conservation planning. Often, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ES description). Because of this, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. More accurate carrying capacity estimates should eventually be calculated using the following stocking rate information along with animal preference data and actual stocking records, particularly when grazers other than cattle are involved. With consultation of the land manager, more intensive grazing management may result in improved harvest efficiencies and increased carrying capacity.
Bluestem/Needlegrass/Prairie Dropseed (1.1 & 2.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 3200
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.88
Little Bluestem/Grama/Needlegrass/Bluegrass (2.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2600
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.71
Little Bluestem/Bluegrass (2.3)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2400
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.66
Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky Bluegrass/Forbs/Shrubs (3.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 3000
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.82
Kentucky Bluegrass/Quackgrass/Little Bluestem (3.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1900
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.52
Annual/Pioneer, Non-Native Perennial (3.3)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1000
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.27
*Based on 912 lbs./acre (air-dry weight) per Animal Unit Month (AUM), and on 25 percent harvest efficiency (refer to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Range and Pasture Handbook).
Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland, in this area, may provide yearlong forage. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock will likely be lacking protein to meet livestock requirements and added protein will allow ruminants to better utilize the energy stored in grazed plant materials. A forage quality test (either directly or through fecal sampling) should be used to determine the level of supplementation needed.
Hydrological functions
Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic group B. Infiltration and runoff potential for this site varies from moderate to high depending on soil hydrologic group, slope and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75% ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. An example of an exception would be where shortgrasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Dominance by blue grama, bluegrass, and/or smooth bromegrass will result in reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Areas where ground cover is less than 50% have the greatest potential to have reduced infiltration and higher runoff (refer to Section 4, NRCS National Engineering Handbook for runoff quantities and hydrologic curves).
Recreational uses
This site provides hunting, hiking, photography, bird watching and other opportunities. The wide variety of plants that bloom from spring until fall have an esthetic value that appeals to visitors.
Wood products
No appreciable wood products are typically present on this site.
Other products
Seed harvest of native plant species can provide additional income on this site.
Other information
Ecological Site Correlation Issues and Questions:
• SD083 Lincoln County, SD did not use the (EeB) Egan-Ethan-Trent complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes (national symbol gz45) as used in the adjoining SD099 Minnehaha County, SD.
• SD083 Lincoln County, SD did not use the (EeB) Egan-Ethan complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes (national symbol g167) as used in the adjoining SD125 Turner County, SD.
• SD083 Lincoln County, SD did not use the (EtC) Ethan-Egan complex, 5 to 9 percent slopes (national symbol g16f) as used in the adjoining SD125 Turner County, SD.
• SD127 Union County, SD did not use the (EpD) Ethan-Bon channeled, loams, 0 to 20 percent slopes (national symbol gyn0) as used in the adjoining SD027 Clay County, SD.
• SD127 Union County, SD did not use the (EgB) Egan-Ethan-Trent complex, 1 to 6 percent slopes (national symbol gymr) as used in the adjoining SD027 Clay County, SD.
• SD127 Union County, SD did not use the (EfB) Egan-Ethan-Tetonka complex, 0 to 6 percent slopes (national symbol gymq) as used in the adjoining SD027 Clay County, SD.
• Reference and alternative states within the state and transition model are may not be fully documented and may require additional field sampling for refinement.
Supporting information
Inventory data references
Information presented here has been derived from NRCS clipping data and other inventory data. Field observations from range-trained personnel were also used. Those involved in developing this site include: Stan Boltz, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; and Bruce Kunze, Soil Scientist, NRCS.
Data Source Sample Period State County
None
Other references
Cleland, D.T., J.A. Freeouf, J.E. Keys, G.J. Nowacki, C. Carpenter, and W.H. McNab. 2007. Ecological Subregions: Sections and Subsections of the Coterminous United States. USDA Forest Service, General Technical Report WO-76. Washington, DC. 92 pps.
Gilbert, M. C., Whited, P. M., Clairain Jr, E. J., & Smith, R. D. (2006). A Regional Guidebook for Applying the Hydrogeomorphic Approach to Assessing Wetland Functions of Prairie Potholes. Washington DC.
Samson, F. B., & Knopf, F. L. (1996). Prairie Conservation Preserving North America's Most Endagered Ecosystem. Washington D.C.: Island Press.
Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Official Soil Series Descriptions. Available online. Accessed March 2018.
United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 2003. National Range and Pasture Handbook, Revision 1. Grazing Lands Technology Institute. 214 pps.
United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 2006. Land Resource Regions and Major Land Resource Areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 296. 672pps.
USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 27 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA]. 2013. Level III and Level IV Ecoregions of the Continental United States. Corvallis, OR, U.S. EPA, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, map scale 1:3,000,000. Available at http://www.epa.gov/eco-research/level-iii-and-iv-ecoregions- continental-united-states. (Accessed 1 March 2018).
High Plains Regional Climate Center, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583-0728. (http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/)
USDA, NRCS. National Water and Climate Center, Portland, OR 97204-3224. (http://wcc.nrcs.usda.gov)
USDA, NRCS. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center, Fort Collins, CO 80526. (http://nasis.nrcs.usda.gov)
Contributors
Megan Baxter
Stan Boltz
Approval
Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 2/01/2024
Acknowledgments
Contact for Lead Authors: Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), Redfield Soil Survey Office, Redfield, SD & Stanton Soil Survey Office, Stanton, NE; Lance Howe (Lance.Howe@usda.gov), Soil Survey Office Leader, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD; Steve Winter (Steven.Winter@usda.gov), Soil Scientist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD; and Greg Clark (Greg.Clark@usda.gov), Soil Survey Office Leader, USDA-NRCS, Stanton, NE.
Additional Information Acknowledgment: Jason Hermann (Jason.Hermann@usda.gov), Area Rangeland Management Specialist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD.
This Provisional Ecological Site concept has passed both Quality Control and Quality Assurance processes. It was officially approved for publication by David Kraft as of 11/12/2020.
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Rangeland health reference sheet
Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health is a qualitative assessment protocol used to determine ecosystem condition based on benchmark characteristics described in the Reference Sheet. A suite of 17 (or more) indicators are typically considered in an assessment. The ecological site(s) representative of an assessment location must be known prior to applying the protocol and must be verified based on soils and climate. Current plant community cannot be used to identify the ecological site.
| Author(s)/participant(s) | David Schmidt, Tim Nordquist, Stan Boltz |
|---|---|
| Contact for lead author | |
| Date | 12/07/2004 |
| Approved by | Suzanne Mayne-Kinney |
| Approval date | |
| Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on | Annual Production |
Indicators
-
Number and extent of rills:
Rills should not be present. -
Presence of water flow patterns:
Barely observable. -
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Essentially, non-existent. -
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground less than 10% and less than 2 inches in diameter. -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present. -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None. -
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Little to no plant litter movement. Plant litter remains in place and is not moved by erosional forces. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Stability class usually 6. Typically high root content. Soil surface is very resistant to erosion. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Use soil series description for depth and color of A-horizon. -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Healthy, deep rooted native grasses enhance infiltration and reduce runoff. -
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
No compaction layer should be evident. -
Functional/Structural Groups (list in order of descending dominance by above-ground annual-production or live foliar cover using symbols: >>, >, = to indicate much greater than, greater than, and equal to):
Dominant:
Mid warm-season grasses >>Sub-dominant:
Tall warm-season rhizomatous grasses > mid and tall cool-season bunchgrasses >Other:
Forbs > shrubs > mid cool-season rhizomatous grasses > short cool-season grasses = short grass-like species > short warm-season grassesAdditional:
Due to differing root structure and distribution, Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass do not fit into reference plant community F/S groups. -
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Very little to no evidence of decadence or mortality. -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
60-70%, roughly 0.5 inch thick or less. Litter cover is in contact with soil surface. -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
Production ranges from 2,200-4,000 lbs./acre (air-dry weight). Reference value production is 3,200 lbs./acre (air-dry weight). -
Potential invasive (including noxious) species (native and non-native). List species which BOTH characterize degraded states and have the potential to become a dominant or co-dominant species on the ecological site if their future establishment and growth is not actively controlled by management interventions. Species that become dominant for only one to several years (e.g., short-term response to drought or wildfire) are not invasive plants. Note that unlike other indicators, we are describing what is NOT expected in the reference state for the ecological site:
Refer to State and Local Noxious Weed List -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All species are capable of reproducing.
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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.
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