Calcareous Limestone Exposed Backslope Woodland

Description

The reference state was dominated by chinkapin oak and ash. Maximum tree age was likely 150 to 300 years. Periodic disturbances from fire, wind or ice maintained the dominance of white and chinkapin oak by opening up the canopy and allowing more light for oak reproduction. Long disturbance-free periods allowed an increase in more shade tolerant species such as northern red oak and sugar maple. Two community phases are recognized in this state, with shifts between phases based on disturbance frequency. This reference state is uncommon today. Some sites have been converted to grassland (State 4). Others have been subject to repeated, high-graded timber harvest coupled with domestic livestock grazing (State 3). Fire suppression has resulted in increased canopy density, which has affected the abundance and diversity of ground flora. Many reference sites have been managed for timber harvests.

Submodel

Description

Lower disturbance levels has allowed these woodlands to become dense with saplings such as ash and hickory. The dense, shaded conditions and lack of disturbance has caused the ground flora to decrease in cover and diversity. However, many of the original herbaceous species persist as small plantlets or in the seed bank. Consequently, thinning of the woody species and the re-introduction of periodic disturbances has shown these communities to be exceptionally resilient, and a return, after a period of many years, to the reference condition is possible.

Submodel

Description

Many of these sites have been subjected to heavy grazing by domestic livestock and periodic logging. These areas are more open with a diminished ground flora. In addition, grazed areas exhibit a lower diversity of native ground flora species and an increase of invasive natives such as buck brush and greenbrier. Restricting livestock access and eliminating logging will be necessary for successful restoration.

Submodel

Description

Conversion of other states to non-native cool season species such as tall fescue and red clover has been common. Occasionally, these pastures will have scattered oaks. 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. If oak sprouting is left unchecked and grazing is eliminated or reduced then over time this state will transition to a low disturbance woodland or to a logged/heavily grazed woodland.

Submodel