Loamy Floodplain Forest
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1A
Lack of natural disturbance events >20 years; repeated timber harvests.
More details -
Transition T1B
Woody removal; vegetative seeding; grassland management
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Transition T1C
Woody removal; tillage; conservation cropping system; water management
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Restoration pathway R2A
Forest stand improvement
More details -
Transition T2A
Woody removal; vegetative seeding; grassland management
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Transition T2B
Woody removal; tillage; conservation cropping system; water management
More details -
Transition T3A
Tillage; conservation cropping system; water management
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Transition T4A
Vegetative seeding; grassland management
More details -
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Description
The historical reference state for this ecological site was old growth riverine forest. The forest was dominated by sycamore, elms, ashes and mesic species such as black walnut and bitternut hickory. Maximum tree age was likely 150 to 300 years. Periodic disturbances from occasional flooding, wind or ice affected the structure and ground flora species. Long disturbance-free periods allowed an increase in canopy cover, the density of trees and the abundance of shade tolerant species.
Two community phases are recognized in the reference state, with shifts between phases based on disturbance frequency. Reference states are very rare today. Altered drainage has resulted in increased canopy density, which has affected the abundance and diversity of ground flora. Most reference states are currently altered because of timber harvesting, clearing and conversion to grassland or cropland.
Submodel
Description
Composition is altered from the reference state depending on tree selection during harvest. This state will slowly increase more shade tolerant species with selective harvesting techniques. Without periodic canopy disturbance, stem densities and more shade tolerant species will increase in abundance. Some periodic uncontrolled grazing may be occurring. High grade logging of more valuable species, such as black walnut and white oak has been common.
Submodel
Description
Conversion of other states to non-native cool season species such as tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus (Schreb.) Dumort., nom. cons.), red top (Agrostis alba auct. non L.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.) has been common. Occasionally, these pastures will have scattered pecans. Long term uncontrolled grazing can cause significant soil erosion and compaction. A return to the reference state may be impossible, requiring a very long term series of management options and transitions.
Submodel
Description
This is a state that exists currently with intensive cropping of corn (Zea mays L), soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Some conversion to cool season hay land occurs, but when commodity prices are high, these states transition back to cropland.
Submodel
Mechanism
Lack of natural disturbance events for 20 years or more. Repeated timber harvesting may have occurred.
Mechanism
Woody removal and tillage of the site. Conservation cropping system and water management often occurs.
Mechanism
Woody removal; tillage; conservation cropping system; water management
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.