Wet Outwash Upland Forest
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
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Transition T1A
Disturbance; no post-disturbance management inputs
More details -
Transition T1B
Clearing; site prep; planting; weed control; agricultural management
More details -
Restoration pathway R2A
Brush control; weed control; planting of desired species; long-term timber stand improvement inputs
More details -
Transition T2A
Clearing; planting; 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
Multiple species may be present on these sites depending on fire regime (or lack of), seed sources, microtopography, and soil characteristics. Historically, these communities were mature hardwood forest with a substantial oak component. Oak species may include northern red oak, swamp white oak, pin oak, and bur oak. Associates include hickories, maple, white ash, tulip poplar, and sweetgum. A variety of native understory species may be on site.
Submodel
Description
Disturbances such as selective harvest, clear cutting, grazing, recreational uses, urban development and fire suppression have transitioned these communities to a more mesic woodland consisting of maples, pin oak, and green ash, Understory composition on these sites is altered due to heavy shade, lack of natural fire, and thick leaf litter. These sites are also highly susceptible to invasion from non-native vegetation species and numerous species may be present depending on disturbance and seed sources.
Submodel
Description
This state is characterized by the conversion of the site to agricultural use. Most common practice is a corn and soybean rotation of various types. A small portion of the historic acres are used for forage and pasture. Numerous species and management scenarios can occur depending on landowner's objectives. Hydrology modifications such as ditching and tiling are common.
Submodel
Mechanism
Large scale disturbance such as clearing or oak removal. Little or no post-harvest timber stand management. No control of non-native species.
Mechanism
Clearing of mature high-quality forest for conversion to agricultural production.
Landowners should be aware of any potential wetland issues on these sites prior to clearing.
Mechanism
Restoration of site would include planting of oaks and timber stand improvement activities to insure desired trees gain dominance. Sites may require restoration of the natural hydrology.
Mechanism
Transition from forest or woodland state to an agricultural state. Species selection, management inputs, and conservation practices would be determined by the landowner’s goals and objectives. Landowners should be aware of potential wetland determinations on these sites prior to clearing.
Mechanism
Cropland or pastureland that is abandoned will slowly, but naturally, transition to a mixed deciduous woodland usually dominated by fast growing trees such as maple, ash, elm, poplar etc. Species present will be a mix of native and non-native species and community composition will depend on the type/severity of disturbances and the 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.