Sandy Terrace

Description

The historic reference state for Sandy Terrace ecological site is dependent on recurring fire intervals. The severity and intensity of the fire will alter species composition and density. Frequent fires will reduce shrub density and promote oak reproduction. A reduction in the fire frequency will allow an increase in wood vegetation and an increase in fire-intolerant tree species. An increase in tree and shrub density will increase canopy cover shading and will influence the understory community composition. Historically, natural fires maintained either an open savanna or open woodland community that included numerous prairie grasses and forbs.

Few, if any, of these historic ecosystems exist today on the soils within this PES group. Most sites in MLRA 115A are utilized for agricultural production or have been repeatedly disturbed through fire suppression, grazing, logging, clearing, or development. Today, numerous tree species may be present and wooded sites generally have many co-dominant tree species. NRCS has documented many trees on these sites including white oak, red oak, hickory, black walnut, ash, maple and tulip poplar.

Submodel

Description

Most remaining wooded Sandy Terrace sites have been altered due to anthropogenic disturbances. Sites have been cleared, grazed, or had intermittent selective harvest (i.e. oak removal). Trees on site, will depending on the type, length and severity of disturbances. Sites that have had a long-term absence of fire will display the following characteristics: an increase in fire -intolerant species, decrease in oak regeneration, an increase in shrub density, an increase in leaf-litter buildup, and an increase in shade-tolerant understory species. Diversity of species may also be reduced, especially if there has been an introduction of non-native species such as bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii). Many of these sites are eventually transitioned to Pastureland (State 3) or cropland (State 4) on lower slope sites.

Submodel

Description

A portion of these sites have been converted to pastureland or forage production. Species selection will depend upon the objectives and goals of the landowner; however, commonly planted grasses include tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus), brome (Bromus spp.), white clover (Trifolium repens) and red clover (Trifolium pratense). Species health and productivity are determined by the management and long-term overgrazing on some sites has caused soil erosion and compaction.

Submodel

Description

Common crops include corn (Zea mays), soybeans (Glycine max), and occasionally winter wheat (Triticum aestivum). Some landowners choose to convert sites to cool season grasses for a period before resuming cropland production.

A return to the historical Reference State from State 4 is unlikely, if not impossible.

Submodel