Sandy Eolian Woodland
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; tillage; seeding; agricultural management
More details -
Restoration pathway R2A
Brush/weed control; planting; timber stand thinning; long-term forest management
More details -
Transition T2A
Clearing; site prep; tillage; seeding; 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 a mosaic of dry woodlands, grass dominated openings, and periodic dry-mesic forests. The open canopy woodlands were dominated mostly by dry oak and hickory species. Fire frequency and intensity were the principle drivers that maintained these open sites and encouraged a mixed woodland/prairie system.
The herbaceous understory species common in this fire enhanced ecosystem were grasses, sedges, and a diverse assemblage of forb species. An increase in the fire return interval (absence of frequent fires) allows these sites to transition to a dry woodland state. This reduction in fire frequency increases the tree canopy cover, which in turn can reduce the diversity and production of the understory. Species will vary depending on fire regime (or lack thereof) and microtopography.
Submodel
Description
This phase is characterized by substantial canopy disturbance such as selective harvest of oaks or clearing with no post management inputs. Often these disturbances introduce non-native understory species which, if not controlled, will gain dominance in the understory and shrub layers. Species regeneration will depend upon the severity and length of disturbances as well as the resiliency of the natural community.
Submodel
Description
This state is characterized by the conversion of the site to agricultural use. Most common practice is row crops of various types. A small portion of the historic acres are used for forage and pasture. Species planted and management inputs will depend upon landowner goals and objectives.
Submodel
Mechanism
Significant disturbances and no long-term control of non-native species. Species regeneration will depend upon the type of disturbance, the severity and length of disturbance, available seed sources, any post management activities, and the overall resilience of the natural community.
Mechanism
Clearing of an oak woodland for conversion to agricultural production.
Species selection and management inputs will depend upon landowner objectives.
Mechanism
Restoration of site would include planting of oaks and long-term timber stand improvement activities such as planting of desired species, brush control, weed control, selective thinning, etc.
Mechanism
Transition from forest to agricultural state. Activities would be determined by the landowner’s production objectives.
Mechanism
Cropland or pastureland that is abandoned will slowly, but naturally, transition to a mixed deciduous woodland with numerous non-native species. Species dominance and community composition will depend on type, length and 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.