Wet Till Flatwoods
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1A
Disturbance; invasion of non-native plants
More details -
Transition T1B
Site clearing; hydrology modifications; site preparation; tillage; seeding; agricultural production.
More details -
Restoration pathway R2A
Long-term control of brush and weeds; timber stand improvement inputs
More details -
Transition T2B
Clearing; site preparation; brush/weed control; agricultural management.
More details -
Transition T3A
Abandonment; no management inputs
More details -
No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Description
Historically, these sites were mature forests with water tolerant forest species. Pin oak, swamp white oak, green ash, sweetgum, and a variety of maples were present. Microtopography and soil variations created a mosaic across the landscape. On the better-drained portions of these ecosystems, mesic upland species were present such as northern red oak, white oak, white ash, American elm, sugar maple, tulip poplar, blackgum, and beech. Ponding frequency and depth influenced the species distribution and community composition. Shrub and understory species vary and are dependent upon ponding frequency and length. Flooding, windthrow, drought, and fire are the natural influences to these systems.
Submodel
Description
This State is characterized by anthropological disturbances and the subsequent invasion of non-native plants. Species composition will vary greatly depending on the type/severity of disturbance, previous land use, and available seed sources.
Submodel
Mechanism
This transition reflects the change in community from a reference state of native plants to a compromised community due to invasive species. Disturbances (logging, grazing, etc.) is the usual precursor to invasion of non-native plants.
Mechanism
Transitioning to an agricultural state would require tree clearing, brush removal, site preparation, seeding/planting, and weed control. Hydrological modification such as ditching and tiling are often installed.
NOTE: Landowner should be aware of the current federal regulations regarding protection of existing wetlands and seek appropriate technical assistance prior to use conversion.
Mechanism
Restoration to a reference community state would require management inputs such as brush and weed control. Multiple years of treatment would be required. Hydrological system restoration may also be installed.
Mechanism
Transitioning to an agricultural state would require tree clearing, brush removal, site preparation, seeding/planting, and weed control. Hydrological modification such as ditching and tiling would likely be recommended.
NOTE: Landowner should be aware of the current federal regulations regarding protection of existing wetlands and seek appropriate technical assistance prior to use conversion.
Mechanism
Abandonment of the site will result in a series of successional plant communities consisting of native and non-native vegetation. Initially, annual and perennial herbaceous and grass species will dominant the sites followed by an increasing number of shrubs and tree saplings. Species composition will depend on prior use, severity of disturbances, and available seed sources.
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.