Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Ecological site F116CY002MO
Igneous Upland Woodland
Accessed: 04/18/2024
General information
Approved. An approved ecological site description has undergone quality control and quality assurance review. It contains a working state and transition model, enough information to identify the ecological site, and full documentation for all ecosystem states contained in the state and transition model.
Figure 1. Mapped extent
Areas shown in blue indicate the maximum mapped extent of this ecological site. Other ecological sites likely occur within the highlighted areas. It is also possible for this ecological site to occur outside of highlighted areas if detailed soil survey has not been completed or recently updated.
MLRA notes
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 116C–St. Francois Knobs and Basins
The St Francois Knobs and Basins is the structural center of the Ozark Dome. Elevation ranges from about 450 feet along the rivers in the southern part of the area, to 1,772 feet on the summit of Taum Sauk Mountain, the highest point in Missouri. Prominent features of this major land resource area (MLRA) are the Precambrian igneous knobs and hills that rise conspicuously to various elevations, interspersed with smooth-floored basins and valleys overlying dolomite and sandstone. Ecological sites defined for this MLRA are associated with the igneous parent materials, either in knob or basin positions. Areas influenced primarily by dolomite and/or sandstone are included in ecological sites within MLRA 116A (Ozark Highlands).
Classification relationships
Atlas of Missouri Ecoregions (Nigh and Schroeder 2002):
This ecological site occurs primarily within the following Land Type Association - OZ10a St. Francois Igneous Glade/Oak Forest Knobs
Terrestrial Natural Community Type (Nelson, 2010):
The reference state for this ecological site is most similar to Dry-Mesic Igneous Woodland
National Vegetation Classification System Vegetation Association (NatureServe, 2010):
The reference tate for this ecological site is most similar to CEGL005030) Quercus velutina - Quercus alba/Vaccinium (angustifolium, pallidum)/Carex pensylvanica Forest
Ecological site concept
Igneous Upland Woodlands occur in the central and southern part of the MLRA. Soils are over 40 inches to igneous bedrock, and are low in bases. These sites are often adjacent to Dry Igneous Upland Woodland ecological sites, and in places, are mapped in complex with them. Dry Igneous sites have root-restricting bedrock in the upper part of the soil profile, as do the nearby Shallow Igneous Knob Glade sites. Vegetation of the reference state is woodland with a moderately developed canopy dominated by white oak and northern red oak.
Associated sites
| F116CY003MO |
Dry Igneous Upland Woodland Dry Igneous Upland Woodlands are often downslope from Igneous Upland Woodlands, but are intermingled in other areas and mapped as a complex. |
|---|---|
| F116CY005MO |
Dry Igneous Protected Backslope Woodland Igneous Protected Backslope Woodlands are typically downslope from Igneous Upland Woodlands, and are steeper. |
| F116CY010MO |
Igneous Exposed Backslope Woodland Igneous Exposed Backslope Woodlands are typically downslope from Igneous Upland Woodlands, and are steeper. |
| R116CY006MO |
Shallow Igneous Knob Glade Shallow Igneous Knob Glades have shallow soils with significant amounts of bedrock outcrop. |
Similar sites
| F116CY005MO |
Dry Igneous Protected Backslope Woodland Igneous Protected Backslope Woodlands are downslope, on steeper slopes and have generally shallower soil depths than Igneous Upland Woodlands. The protected aspects make the site more mesic and closer in species composition to Igneous Upland Woodlands. |
|---|
Table 1. Dominant plant species
| Tree |
(1) Quercus alba |
|---|---|
| Shrub |
(1) Vaccinium pallidum |
| Herbaceous |
(1) Danthonia spicata |
Physiographic features
This site is on upland summit crests, shoulders and backslopes with slopes of 3 to 15 percent. The site generates runoff to adjacent, downslope ecological sites. This site does not flood.
The following figure (adapted from Simmons et al., 2006) shows the typical landscape position of this ecological site, and landscape relationships among the major ecological sites in the igneous uplands. This ecological site occurs in unit “1” on the diagram, as well as in the upper areas of unit “4”. Sites on summit crests and shoulders (labeled “1”) have more loess influence in the soil than do sites lower on the slopes, which are generally upslope from steeper, backslope ecological sites.
Figure 2. Major ecological sites of the igneous uplands.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
| Landforms |
(1)
Ridge
(2) Interfluve (3) Hill |
|---|---|
| Flooding frequency | None |
| Ponding frequency | None |
| Elevation | 600 – 1,770 ft |
| Slope | 3 – 15% |
| Water table depth | 24 – 60 in |
| Aspect | Aspect is not a significant factor |
Climatic features
The St. Francois Knobs and Basins have a continental type of climate marked by strong seasonality. In winter, dry-cold air masses, unchallenged by any topographic barriers, periodically swing south from the northern plains and Canada. If they invade reasonably humid air, snowfall and rainfall result. In summer, moist, warm air masses, equally unchallenged by topographic barriers, swing north from the Gulf of Mexico and can produce abundant amounts of rain, either by fronts or by convectional processes. In some summers, high pressure stagnates over the region, creating extended droughty periods. Spring and fall are transitional seasons when abrupt changes in temperature and precipitation may occur due to successive, fast-moving fronts separating contrasting air masses.
The St. Francois Knobs and Basins experience few regional differences in climates. The average annual precipitation in this area is 42 to 46 inches. The average annual temperature is about 54 to 56 degrees F. The lower temperatures occur at the higher elevations. Mean July maximum temperatures have a range of only one or two degrees across the area.
Mean annual precipitation varies somewhat along a west to east gradient. The rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year. Snow falls nearly every winter, but the snow cover lasts for only a few days.
During years when precipitation is normal, moisture is stored in the soil profile during the winter and early spring, when evaporation and transpiration are low. During the summer months the loss of water by evaporation and transpiration is high, and if rainfall fails to occur at frequent intervals, drought will result. Drought directly affects plant and animal life by limiting water supplies, especially at times of high temperatures and high evaporation rates.
Superimposed upon the basic MLRA climatic patterns are local topographic influences that create topoclimatic, or microclimatic variations. For example, air drainage at night may produce temperatures several degrees lower in the basin and floodplain ecological sites downslope from this ecological site. At critical times during the year, this phenomenon may produce later spring or earlier fall freezes in basins and valleys. Nearby Glade ecological sites may have higher daytime temperatures due to bare rock and higher reflectivity of these un-vegetated surfaces. Slope orientation is an important topographic influence on climate. Summits and south-and-west-facing slopes are regularly warmer and drier than adjacent north- and-east-facing slopes. Finally, the climate within closed-canopy woodland communities is measurably different from the climate of open-canopy woodlands within this ecological site.
References:
University of Missouri Climate Center. Accessed May, 2012. http://climate.missouri.edu/climate.php
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2006. Land Resource Regions and Major Land Resource Areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 296.
Table 3. Representative climatic features
| Frost-free period (characteristic range) | 137-145 days |
|---|---|
| Freeze-free period (characteristic range) | 164-169 days |
| Precipitation total (characteristic range) | 45-47 in |
| Frost-free period (actual range) | 136-148 days |
| Freeze-free period (actual range) | 163-170 days |
| Precipitation total (actual range) | 45-47 in |
| Frost-free period (average) | 141 days |
| Freeze-free period (average) | 166 days |
| Precipitation total (average) | 46 in |
Figure 3. Monthly precipitation range
Figure 4. Monthly minimum temperature range
Figure 5. Monthly maximum temperature range
Figure 6. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
Figure 7. Annual precipitation pattern
Figure 8. Annual average temperature pattern
Climate stations used
-
(1) FARMINGTON [USC00232809], Farmington, MO
-
(2) FREDERICKTOWN [USC00233038], Fredericktown, MO
-
(3) ARCADIA [USC00230224], Arcadia, MO
Influencing water features
The site generates runoff to adjacent, downslope ecological sites. The water features of this upland ecological site include evapotranspiration, surface runoff, and drainage. Each water balance component fluctuates to varying extents from year-to-year. Evapotranspiration remains the most constant. Precipitation and drainage are highly variable between years. Seasonal variability differs for each water component. Precipitation generally occurs as single day events. Evapotranspiration is lowest in the winter and peaks in the summer. Water stored as ice and snow decreases drainage and surface runoff rates throughout the winter and increases these fluxes in the spring. The surface runoff pulse is greatly influenced by extreme events. Conversion to high intensity land uses tends to increase runoff, but also decreases evapotranspiration. Depending on the situation, this might increase groundwater discharge, and decrease baseflow in receiving streams.
Soil features
These soils have acidic subsoils that are low in bases. The soils were formed under woodland vegetation, and have thin, light-colored surface horizons. Parent material is slope alluvium and residuum weathered from acid igneous rock such as diorite. Sites on summit crests generally have loess in the upper part. They have silt loam surface layers that range to gravelly and very gravelly and cobbly, particularly on lower slope positions, with loamy subsoils that have moderate amounts of volcanic gravel and cobbles. These soils are not affected by seasonal wetness. Soil series associated with this site include Hassler, Mudlick, and Trackler.
Table 4. Representative soil features
| Parent material |
(1)
Slope alluvium
–
diorite
(2) Residuum – diorite |
|---|---|
| Surface texture |
(1) Cobbly silt loam |
| Family particle size |
(1) Loamy |
| Drainage class | Moderately well drained to well drained |
| Permeability class | Moderately slow to moderate |
| Soil depth | 40 – 72 in |
| Surface fragment cover <=3" | 5 – 10% |
| Surface fragment cover >3" | 10 – 25% |
| Available water capacity (0-40in) |
6 – 7 in |
| Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-40in) |
Not specified |
| Electrical conductivity (0-40in) |
2 mmhos/cm |
| Sodium adsorption ratio (0-40in) |
Not specified |
| Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in) |
3.5 – 6 |
| Subsurface fragment volume <=3" (Depth not specified) |
5 – 10% |
| Subsurface fragment volume >3" (Depth not specified) |
10 – 25% |
Ecological dynamics
Information contained in this section was developed using historical data, professional experience, field reviews, and scientific studies. The information is representative of very complex vegetation communities. Not all scenarios or plants are included or discussed. Key indicator plants, animals and ecological processes are described to help guide land management decisions. Plant communities will differ across the MLRA because of the naturally occurring variability in weather, soils, and aspect. The Reference Plant Community is not necessarily the management goal. The biological processes on this site are complex. Therefore, representative values are presented in a land management context. The species lists are representative and are not botanical descriptions of all species occurring, or potentially occurring, on this site. They are not intended to cover every situation or the full range of conditions, species, and responses for the site.
The historic reference community for Igneous Upland Woodland has a moderately developed canopy (50 to 70 feet tall and 60 to 80 percent closure) that is dominated by white oak (Quercus alba), black oak (Quercus velutina), and northern red oak (Quercus rubra) and occasional shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata) with a sun loving woodland ground flora. Increased canopy heights and higher stocking densities of white oak are associated with the deeper soil depth ranges of the correlated soil components (Nelson, 2010).
Igneous Upland Woodlands likely had an estimated fire frequency of 3 to 5 years. These periodic fires kept woodlands open, removed the litter, and stimulated the growth and flowering of the grasses and forbs. (Ladd, 1991; Frost, 1996) During fire free intervals, woody species, especially black hickory (Carya texana), winged elm (Ulmus alata) and eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) would have increased and the herbaceous understory diminished. The return of fire would have opened the woodlands up again and stimulated the abundant ground flora.
Igneous Upland Woodlands were also subjected to occasional disturbances from wind and ice, as well as grazing by native large herbivores. Wind and ice would have periodically opened the canopy up by knocking over trees or breaking substantial branches off canopy trees. Grazing by native herbivores would have effectively kept understory conditions more open, creating conditions more favorable to oak reproduction and sun-loving ground flora species.
In the long term absence of fire, woody species will encroach into these woodlands (Nigh and Schroeder, 2002). Once established, these woody plants can quickly fill the woodland system. Most of these ecological sites today are more dense and shady with a greatly diminished ground flora. Removal of the younger understory and the application of prescribed fire have proven to be effective management tools (MDC, 2006).
These sites have undergone periodic timber harvests and infrequent domestic livestock grazing. Most existing occurrences have a younger (50 to 80 years) canopy whose composition has been altered by timber harvesting practices. An increase in hickories (Carya sp.) over historic conditions is common. The absence of periodic fire has allowed more shade-tolerant tree species, such as red maple (Acer rubrum), winged elm, coralberry (Symphoriocarpus orbiculatus) and hickories to increase in abundance increasing canopy cover and stand densities (Nelson, 2010). Some less sloping sites have been cleared and converted to non-native cool season grassland.
Igneous Upland Woodlands are moderately productive timber sites. Unmanaged timber harvests in this region typically results in removal of the most productive trees, or high-grading of the stand. This can result in poorer quality residual timber and a shift in species composition away from more valuable oak species. Carefully planned single tree selection or the creation of small group openings can help regenerate more desirable oak species and increase vigor on the residual trees.
Clear-cutting does occur and results in dense, even-aged stands of primarily oak. This may be most beneficial for existing stands whose composition has been highly altered by past management practices. Thinning and prescribed fire can play a beneficial role in the management of this ecological site.
Some soil properties may vary with ecological dynamics and management regimes, particularly in the upper part of the soil profile. Unrestricted grazing in woodland communities generally results in an increase in bulk density of the surface horizon and a decrease in infiltration rates. Long-term fire exclusion allows for a buildup of leaf litter increasing surface organic material over time. Conversion to grassland may result in soil loss from the clearing process and from erosion before the grassland is well established. Long-term, proper grassland management results in higher soil pH levels and higher levels of calcium and magnesium from pasture liming. These effects may extend a foot or more into the soil profile (Conant and others, 2001; Schellberg, and others, 1999).
A state and transition model for the Igneous Upland Woodland Ecological Site (F116CY002MO) follows this narrative. Descriptions of each state, transition, plant community, and pathway follow the model. Experts base this model on available experimental research, field observations, professional consensus, and interpretations. It is likely to change as knowledge increases.
The following diagram suggests some pathways that the vegetation on this site might take. There may be other states not shown on the diagram. This information is intended to show what might happen in a given set of circumstances. It does not mean that this would happen the same way in every instance. Local professional guidance should always be sought before pursuing a treatment scenario.
State and transition model
Figure 9. State and Transition Diagram
More interactive model formats are also available.
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More interactive model formats are also available.
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Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective text
Ecosystem states
State 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 4 submodel, plant communities
State 5 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference State
The historical reference state for this ecological site was old growth oak woodland with an open understory and a dense ground flora of native grasses and forbs. This state was dominated by white oak, northern red oak, with occasional black oak, post oak, and shortleaf pine. Periodic disturbances from fire, wind or ice maintained the woodland structure and diverse ground flora species. Long disturbance-free periods allowed an increase in both the density of trees and the abundance of shade tolerant species. Two community phases are recognized in the reference state, with shifts between phases based on disturbance frequency. Reference sites are uncommon today. Most of these sites have been subject to repeated, high-graded timber harvest (State 3). Fire suppression has resulted in increased canopy density, which has affected the abundance and diversity of ground flora (State 4). Relatively few Igneous Upland Woodlands have been managed effectively for timber harvest (State 2), resulting in either even-age or uneven-age forests. Some areas have been cleared and planted to cool-season grassland species (State 5) and are being used for grazing and haying.
Dominant plant species
-
white oak (Quercus alba), tree
-
black oak (Quercus velutina), tree
-
northern red oak (Quercus rubra), tree
-
post oak (Quercus stellata), tree
-
black hickory (Carya texana), tree
-
white ash (Fraxinus americana), tree
-
shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata), tree
-
pignut hickory (Carya glabra), tree
-
shagbark hickory (Carya ovata), tree
-
flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), tree
-
Blue Ridge blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum), shrub
-
Carolina buckthorn (Frangula caroliniana), shrub
-
fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica), shrub
-
St. Andrew's cross (Hypericum hypericoides), shrub
-
Carolina rose (Rosa carolina), shrub
-
winged sumac (Rhus copallinum), shrub
-
sassafras (Sassafras albidum), shrub
-
poverty oatgrass (Danthonia spicata), grass
-
little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), grass
-
rock muhly (Muhlenbergia sobolifera), grass
-
southeastern wildrye (Elymus glabriflorus), grass
-
blue wildrye (Elymus glaucus), grass
-
cypress panicgrass (Dichanthelium dichotomum), grass
-
slimleaf panicgrass (Dichanthelium linearifolium), grass
-
Bush's sedge (Carex bushii), grass
-
oval-leaf sedge (Carex cephalophora), grass
-
nakedflower ticktrefoil (Desmodium nudiflorum), other herbaceous
-
elmleaf goldenrod (Solidago ulmifolia), other herbaceous
-
downy ragged goldenrod (Solidago petiolaris), other herbaceous
-
perplexed ticktrefoil (Desmodium perplexum), other herbaceous
-
hairy sunflower (Helianthus hirsutus), other herbaceous
-
Parlin's pussytoes (Antennaria parlinii), other herbaceous
-
Dillenius' ticktrefoil (Desmodium glabellum), other herbaceous
-
calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum), other herbaceous
-
white arrowleaf aster (Symphyotrichum urophyllum), other herbaceous
-
queendevil (Hieracium gronovii), other herbaceous
Community 1.1
White Oak-Northern Red Oak/Poverty Oat Grass-Little Bluestem
This phase has white oak and northern red oak that dominate the overstory with little bluestem and poverty oat grass dominating the open ground layer. Numerous forbs and sedges are also present. Shrubs and forest understory trees can be locally abundant.
Forest overstory. Canopy cover ranges from 60 to 80 percent. White oak and northern red oak dominate with scattered black oak and post oak. Shortleaf pine occurs on many sites.
Forest understory. Two understory layers are present - 20 to 30 foot tall small tree layer and a dense native forb and grass ground layer with scattered shrubs.
Table 5. Soil surface cover
| Tree basal cover | 1-2% |
|---|---|
| Shrub/vine/liana basal cover | 0-1% |
| Grass/grasslike basal cover | 0.1-1.0% |
| Forb basal cover | 0.1-1.0% |
| Non-vascular plants | 0-1% |
| Biological crusts | 0% |
| Litter | 75-90% |
| Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" | 0-1% |
| Surface fragments >3" | 0-1% |
| Bedrock | 0% |
| Water | 0% |
| Bare ground | 0-5% |
Table 6. Woody ground cover
| Downed wood, fine-small (<0.40" diameter; 1-hour fuels) | 0-1% |
|---|---|
| Downed wood, fine-medium (0.40-0.99" diameter; 10-hour fuels) | 0-1% |
| Downed wood, fine-large (1.00-2.99" diameter; 100-hour fuels) | 0-1% |
| Downed wood, coarse-small (3.00-8.99" diameter; 1,000-hour fuels) | 0-2% N* |
| Downed wood, coarse-large (>9.00" diameter; 10,000-hour fuels) | 0-1% N* |
| Tree snags** (hard***) | – |
| Tree snags** (soft***) | – |
| Tree snag count** (hard***) | 0-4 per acre |
| Tree snag count** (hard***) | 0-4 per acre |
* Decomposition Classes: N - no or little integration with the soil surface; I - partial to nearly full integration with the soil surface.
** >10.16cm diameter at 1.3716m above ground and >1.8288m height--if less diameter OR height use applicable down wood type; for pinyon and juniper, use 0.3048m above ground.
*** Hard - tree is dead with most or all of bark intact; Soft - most of bark has sloughed off.
Table 7. Canopy structure (% cover)
| Height Above Ground (ft) | Tree | Shrub/Vine | Grass/ Grasslike |
Forb |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <0.5 | 0-1% | 0-1% | 0-2% | 0-1% |
| >0.5 <= 1 | 0-2% | 0-2% | 0-2% | 0-5% |
| >1 <= 2 | 0-5% | 0-5% | 0-2% | 0-1% |
| >2 <= 4.5 | 1-25% | 0-1% | – | – |
| >4.5 <= 13 | 5-50% | 0-1% | – | – |
| >13 <= 40 | 10-50% | 1-2% | – | – |
| >40 <= 80 | 50-75% | – | – | – |
| >80 <= 120 | – | – | – | – |
| >120 | – | – | – | – |
Community 1.2
White Oak-Red Oak/Oak and Hickory Saplings /Poverty Oat Grass
This phase is similar to community phase 1.1 but oak and hickory densities are increasing due to longer periods of fire suppression. Displacement of some grasses and forbs may be occurring due to shading and competition from the increased densities of oak and hickory saplings in the understory.
Forest overstory. Canopy cover ranges from 70 to 80 percent. White oak and northern red oak dominate with scattered black oak and post oak. An occasional shortleaf pine occurs on many sites.
Forest understory. Displacement of some grasses and forbs is occurring due to shading and competition from the increased densities of oak and hickory saplings.
Table 8. Soil surface cover
| Tree basal cover | 1-2% |
|---|---|
| Shrub/vine/liana basal cover | 0-1% |
| Grass/grasslike basal cover | 0.1-1.0% |
| Forb basal cover | 0.1-1.0% |
| Non-vascular plants | 0-1% |
| Biological crusts | 0% |
| Litter | 75-90% |
| Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" | 0-1% |
| Surface fragments >3" | 0-1% |
| Bedrock | 0% |
| Water | 0% |
| Bare ground | 0-5% |
Table 9. Woody ground cover
| Downed wood, fine-small (<0.40" diameter; 1-hour fuels) | 0-1% |
|---|---|
| Downed wood, fine-medium (0.40-0.99" diameter; 10-hour fuels) | 0-1% |
| Downed wood, fine-large (1.00-2.99" diameter; 100-hour fuels) | 0-1% |
| Downed wood, coarse-small (3.00-8.99" diameter; 1,000-hour fuels) | 0-2% N* |
| Downed wood, coarse-large (>9.00" diameter; 10,000-hour fuels) | 0-1% N* |
| Tree snags** (hard***) | – |
| Tree snags** (soft***) | – |
| Tree snag count** (hard***) | 0-4 per acre |
| Tree snag count** (hard***) | 0-4 per acre |
* Decomposition Classes: N - no or little integration with the soil surface; I - partial to nearly full integration with the soil surface.
** >10.16cm diameter at 1.3716m above ground and >1.8288m height--if less diameter OR height use applicable down wood type; for pinyon and juniper, use 0.3048m above ground.
*** Hard - tree is dead with most or all of bark intact; Soft - most of bark has sloughed off.
Table 10. Canopy structure (% cover)
| Height Above Ground (ft) | Tree | Shrub/Vine | Grass/ Grasslike |
Forb |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <0.5 | – | – | – | – |
| >0.5 <= 1 | – | – | 0-5% | 0-5% |
| >1 <= 2 | 0-5% | 10-20% | 5-10% | 5-20% |
| >2 <= 4.5 | 0-5% | 10-30% | 10-40% | 10-30% |
| >4.5 <= 13 | 10-20% | – | – | – |
| >13 <= 40 | 30-40% | – | – | – |
| >40 <= 80 | 40-60% | – | – | – |
| >80 <= 120 | – | – | – | – |
| >120 | – | – | – | – |
Pathway 1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2
This pathway results from a fire-free interval of 10 to 15 years.
Pathway 2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1
This pathway results from a fire interval of 3 to 5 years.
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Burning |
|---|
State 2
Timber Managed Mixed-Oak Forest
This state develops from mixed oak woodlands, which over time, increase in canopy cover, eventually transitioning into forest-like communities. These early woodlands tend to be rather dense with a depauperate understory and ground flora. Periodic timber management, along with the absence of fire, will maintain this phase. Continued exclusion of prescribed fire without a regular 15 to 20 year harvest re-entry into these stands, will slowly create an increase in more shade tolerant species. White oak will become less dominant and understory species such as flowering dogwood and hickory will become more dominate and cause a transition to community phase 2.2. With periodic unmanaged logging that result in high-grading the stand, this state will transition to the High Graded Mixed Oak Woodland state (State 3). Restoration back to the reference state is possible with selective thinning to favor white oak and northern red oak species and a prescribed fire interval of 3 to 5 years are typically used.
Community 2.1
White Oak-Red Oak/Oak and Hickory Saplings
Oak and hickory species are increasing due to fire suppression. Displacement of grasses and forbs is occurring due to shading and competition from the increased densities of oak and hickory saplings. Periodic logging keeps this phase in a younger seral stage of development. Canopy cover ranges from 70 to 85 percent. Most stands are 50 to 80 years of age.
Forest overstory. Canopy cover ranges from 70 to 85 percent. Younger white oak and northern red oak dominate with scattered black oak and post oak. Oak and hickory species are increasing due to fire suppression. Shortleaf pine occurs on many sites.
Forest understory. Displacement of grasses and forbs is occurring due to shading and competition from the increased densities of oak and hickory saplings and more shaded conditions.
Community 2.2
White Oak-Red Oak/Flowering Dogwood
This phase occurs when harvest re-entry and prescribed fire is limited or stopped. Ground cover further diminishes but a richer understory of flowering dogwood, sassafras and serviceberry increases. Canopy cover ranges from 80 to 90 percent. Most stands are 60 to 90 years of age. This phase will transition back to Phase 2.1, if well managed forest harvesting occurs.
Forest overstory. Canopy cover is increasing with white oak, red oak, and hickories dominating the overstory.
Forest understory. Ground cover is diminishing, but a richer understory and mid-story layer of flowering dogwood, sassafras, and serviceberry is increasing.
Pathway 1A
Community 2.1 to 2.2
This pathway results from 20 to 30 years of limited logging disturbance.
Pathway 2A
Community 2.2 to 2.1
This pathway results from well managed forest harvesting.
Conservation practices
| Forest Trails and Landings | |
|---|---|
| Forest Stand Improvement | |
| Fuel Break |
State 3
High Graded Mixed-Oak Woodland
This state is subjected to repeated, high-grading timber harvests resulting in a significant reduction in white oak and northern red oak densities. Fire cessation has also occurred. This state exhibits an over-abundance of black oak and hickory and other less desirable tree species, and weedy understory species such as coralberry, gooseberry, poison ivy and Virginia creeper. Proper forest management techniques can create a transition to State 2. This state is often experiences clearing/clear-cutting and conversion to grassland, State 5.
Dominant resource concerns
-
Sheet and rill erosion
-
Ephemeral gully erosion
-
Organic matter depletion
-
Aggregate instability
-
Plant productivity and health
-
Plant structure and composition
-
Plant pest pressure
-
Wildfire hazard from biomass accumulation
-
Terrestrial habitat for wildlife and invertebrates
Community 3.1
Black Oak-Hickory/Red Maple /Buckbrush
This phase is dominated by black oak and hickories along with other less commercially valuable woody species. White oak and northern red oak are greatly diminished or even removed due to repeated high-grading, timber harvesting of the stand.
Forest overstory. Black oak and hickories along with other less commercially valuable woody species are common. White oak is greatly diminished or even removed.
Forest understory. A weedy understory of species such as buckbrush, gooseberry, poison ivy and Virginia creeper is increasing.
State 4
Fire Excluded Mixed-Oak Woodland/Forest
This state is dominated by white oak and northern red oak. They can form relatively even-aged stands, dating to when fire suppression became the dominant management characteristic on the site. This stage can occur relatively quickly (10 to 20 years). Canopy closures can approach 70 to 90 percent with decreasing ground flora. Without active management or long term presence of fire, woody species will continue to encroach into these woodlands. Once established, these woody species can quickly fill the woodland system. Most occurrences of this state today are dense and shady with a greatly diminished ground flora. Removal of the younger understory, opening the upper canopy, and the application of prescribed fire has proven to be effective management tools in restoring the stage back to the reference state. Some logging typically occurs. These states are good wildlife sites.
Dominant resource concerns
-
Plant productivity and health
-
Plant structure and composition
-
Plant pest pressure
Community 4.1
White Oak-Northern Red Oak/Red Maple-Oak and Hickory Saplings/Huckleberry
This phase, due to fire exclusion, has higher densities of red maple and oak and hickory saplings that increase shade levels. Grass and forb diversity and ground cover are decreasing.
Forest overstory. The overstory has increased densities of red maple and white and northern red oak.
Forest understory. The understory is dense and shady with a greatly diminished ground flora.
State 5
Grassland
Conversion of wooded sites to planted, non-native grassland species such as tall fescue is a stage that is primarily associated with summit and shoulder positions of this ecological site. If active grassland management is discontinued, the site will eventually transition to phase 5.2 with an increase in broomsedge and oak sprouts. Return to the reference state from this state may be impossible requiring a very long term series of costly management options and stages. Many species may need to be eventually planted or reseeded to restore the system. Conversion to grassland may result in soil loss from the clearing process and from erosion before the grassland is well established. Long-term grassland management results in higher soil pH levels and higher levels of calcium and magnesium from pasture liming. These effects may extend a foot or more into the soil profile. The effects of liming are more evident in phase 5.1.
Community 5.1
Tall Fescue-Red Clover
This phase is well managed grassland, composed of non-native cool season grasses and legumes. Grazing and haying is occurring. The effects of long-term liming on soil pH, and calcium and magnesium content, is most evident in this phase. Studies show that these soils have higher pH and higher base status in soil horizons as much as two feet below the surface, relative to poorly managed grassland phase 5.2 and to woodland communities where liming is not practiced (Conant and others, 2001; Schellberg, and others, 1999).
Community 5.2
Tall Fescue-Broomsedge/Oak Sprouts
This phase is the result of poor grassland management. Over grazing and little fertility application has allowed broomsedge and oak sprouts to increase in cover and density reducing overall forage quality and site productivity. Soil pH and bases such as calcium and magnesium are lower, relative to well-managed pastures (phase 5.1).
Dominant resource concerns
-
Sheet and rill erosion
-
Ephemeral gully erosion
-
Organic matter depletion
-
Plant productivity and health
-
Plant structure and composition
-
Plant pest pressure
-
Terrestrial habitat for wildlife and invertebrates
-
Inadequate livestock water quantity, quality, and distribution
Pathway 2A
Community 5.2 to 5.1
This pathway results from brush mangament, grassland seeding, and good grassland management including rotational grazing and integrated pest management.
Conservation practices
| Brush Management | |
|---|---|
| Forage Harvest Management | |
| Forage and Biomass Planting | |
| Integrated Pest Management (IPM) | |
| Prescribed Grazing |
Transition 1C
State 1 to 2
This transition is the result of well managed forest harvesting for timber products.
Transition 1A
State 1 to 2
This transition is the result of fire suppression that exceeds 20 years.
Transition 1A
State 1 to 3
This transition is the result of fire suppression that exceeds 20 years.
Transition 1B
State 1 to 3
This transition is the result of periodic unmanaged logging that results in high-grading the stand.
Transition 1A
State 1 to 4
This transition is the result of fire suppression that exceeds 20 years.
Restoration pathway 2A
State 2 to 1
This restoration pathway is the result of selective thinning to favor white oak and red oak species and a prescribed fire interval of 3 to 5 years.
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Burning | |
|---|---|
| Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats | |
| Forest Stand Improvement |
Transition 2A
State 2 to 3
This transition is the result of periodic unmanaged logging that results in high-grading the stand.
Restoration pathway 3A
State 3 to 2
This restoration pathway results in cessation of unmanaged logging; selective thinning and harvesting with a forest management plan.
Conservation practices
| Forest Trails and Landings | |
|---|---|
| Forest Stand Improvement | |
| Forest Management Plan - Applied |
Transition 3A
State 3 to 5
This transition is the result of site clearing/clear cutting, grassland seeding, and grassland management.
Restoration pathway 4A
State 4 to 1
This restoration pathway results in selective thinning to favor white oak and red oak species and to open up the understory canopy. A prescribed fire interval of 3 to 5 years is initiated.
Conservation practices
| Prescribed Burning | |
|---|---|
| Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats | |
| Forest Stand Improvement |
Transition 4A
State 4 to 2
This transition is the result of well managed forest harvesting for timber products.
Restoration pathway 5A
State 5 to 4
This restoration pathway is the result of cessation of grazing and haying, native tree, forb, and grass planting. (This may be a long restoration process.)
Conservation practices
| Access Control | |
|---|---|
| Tree/Shrub Site Preparation | |
| Tree/Shrub Establishment | |
| Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats |
Additional community tables
Table 11. Community 1.1 forest overstory composition
| Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Nativity | Height (ft) | Canopy cover (%) | Diameter (in) | Basal area (square ft/acre) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Tree
|
|||||||
| white oak | QUAL | Quercus alba | Native | 36–60 | 20–40 | 5–19 | – |
| black oak | QUVE | Quercus velutina | Native | 42–70 | 10–30 | – | – |
| northern red oak | QURU | Quercus rubra | Native | 42–70 | 10–30 | 5–19 | – |
| black hickory | CATE9 | Carya texana | Native | 30–50 | 10–20 | – | – |
| white ash | FRAM2 | Fraxinus americana | Native | 36–60 | 5–20 | – | – |
| post oak | QUST | Quercus stellata | Native | 30–50 | 10–20 | 5–21 | – |
| shagbark hickory | CAOV2 | Carya ovata | Native | 30–50 | 5–20 | 5–11 | – |
| shortleaf pine | PIEC2 | Pinus echinata | Native | 42–70 | 5–10 | – | – |
Table 12. Community 1.1 forest understory composition
| Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Nativity | Height (ft) | Canopy cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/grass-like (Graminoids)
|
||||||
| poverty oatgrass | DASP2 | Danthonia spicata | Native | 0.1–1 | 10–20 | |
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | Native | 0.1–3 | 10–20 | |
| rock muhly | MUSO | Muhlenbergia sobolifera | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–10 | |
| whitetinge sedge | CAAL25 | Carex albicans | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–10 | |
|
Forb/Herb
|
||||||
| elmleaf goldenrod | SOUL2 | Solidago ulmifolia | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–10 | |
| Virginia threeseed mercury | ACVI | Acalypha virginica | Native | 0.5–1 | 5–10 | |
| licorice bedstraw | GACI2 | Galium circaezans | Native | 0.1–0.2 | 5–10 | |
| downy ragged goldenrod | SOPE | Solidago petiolaris | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–10 | |
| perplexed ticktrefoil | DEPE80 | Desmodium perplexum | Native | 0.2–1 | 5–10 | |
| manyray aster | SYAN2 | Symphyotrichum anomalum | Native | 0.5–3 | 5–10 | |
| trailing lespedeza | LEPR | Lespedeza procumbens | Native | 0.1–0.3 | 5–10 | |
| St. Andrew's cross | HYHY | Hypericum hypericoides | Native | 0.5–3 | 5–10 | |
| hairy sunflower | HEHI2 | Helianthus hirsutus | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–10 | |
| nakedflower ticktrefoil | DENU4 | Desmodium nudiflorum | Native | 0.5–2 | 5–10 | |
| violet lespedeza | LEVI6 | Lespedeza violacea | Native | 0.1–1 | 5–10 | |
|
Shrub/Subshrub
|
||||||
| lowbush blueberry | VAAN | Vaccinium angustifolium | Native | 0.2–3 | 5–20 | |
| Carolina buckthorn | FRCA13 | Frangula caroliniana | Native | 1–6 | 5–20 | |
| fragrant sumac | RHAR4 | Rhus aromatica | Native | 0.5–5 | 5–20 | |
|
Tree
|
||||||
| red maple | ACRU | Acer rubrum | Native | 5–10 | 5–10 | |
| common serviceberry | AMAR3 | Amelanchier arborea | Native | 5–10 | 5–10 | |
| flowering dogwood | COFL2 | Cornus florida | Native | 5–10 | 5–10 | |
| sassafras | SAAL5 | Sassafras albidum | Native | 5–10 | 5–10 | |
Table 13. Community 1.2 forest overstory composition
| Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Nativity | Height (ft) | Canopy cover (%) | Diameter (in) | Basal area (square ft/acre) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Tree
|
|||||||
| white oak | QUAL | Quercus alba | Native | 36–60 | 20–40 | 5–19 | – |
| northern red oak | QURU | Quercus rubra | Native | 42–70 | 15–30 | 5–19 | – |
| black oak | QUVE | Quercus velutina | Native | 42–70 | 10–30 | – | – |
| black hickory | CATE9 | Carya texana | Native | 30–50 | 15–25 | – | – |
| white ash | FRAM2 | Fraxinus americana | Native | 36–60 | 10–20 | – | – |
| shagbark hickory | CAOV2 | Carya ovata | Native | 30–50 | 10–20 | 5–11 | – |
| post oak | QUST | Quercus stellata | Native | 30–50 | 10–20 | 5–21 | – |
| shortleaf pine | PIEC2 | Pinus echinata | Native | 42–70 | 5–10 | – | – |
Table 14. Community 1.2 forest understory composition
| Common name | Symbol | Scientific name | Nativity | Height (ft) | Canopy cover (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Grass/grass-like (Graminoids)
|
||||||
| little bluestem | SCSC | Schizachyrium scoparium | Native | 0.1–3 | 5–15 | |
| poverty oatgrass | DASP2 | Danthonia spicata | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–15 | |
| rock muhly | MUSO | Muhlenbergia sobolifera | Native | 0.1–2 | 0–5 | |
| whitetinge sedge | CAAL25 | Carex albicans | Native | 0.1–2 | 0–5 | |
|
Forb/Herb
|
||||||
| Virginia threeseed mercury | ACVI | Acalypha virginica | Native | 0.5–1 | 0–10 | |
| downy ragged goldenrod | SOPE | Solidago petiolaris | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–10 | |
| elmleaf goldenrod | SOUL2 | Solidago ulmifolia | Native | 0.1–2 | 5–10 | |
| manyray aster | SYAN2 | Symphyotrichum anomalum | Native | 0.5–3 | 5–10 | |
| trailing lespedeza | LEPR | Lespedeza procumbens | Native | 0.1–0.3 | 5–10 | |
| nakedflower ticktrefoil | DENU4 | Desmodium nudiflorum | Native | 0.5–2 | 5–10 | |
| perplexed ticktrefoil | DEPE80 | Desmodium perplexum | Native | 0.2–1 | 5–10 | |
| licorice bedstraw | GACI2 | Galium circaezans | Native | 0.1–0.2 | 5–10 | |
| hairy sunflower | HEHI2 | Helianthus hirsutus | Native | 0.1–2 | 0–10 | |
| St. Andrew's cross | HYHY | Hypericum hypericoides | Native | 0.5–3 | 5–10 | |
| violet lespedeza | LEVI6 | Lespedeza violacea | Native | 0.1–1 | 5–10 | |
|
Shrub/Subshrub
|
||||||
| Carolina buckthorn | FRCA13 | Frangula caroliniana | Native | 1–6 | 10–20 | |
| fragrant sumac | RHAR4 | Rhus aromatica | Native | 1–5 | 10–20 | |
| lowbush blueberry | VAAN | Vaccinium angustifolium | Native | 0.5–3 | 5–20 | |
|
Tree
|
||||||
| red maple | ACRU | Acer rubrum | Native | 5–10 | 10–15 | |
| common serviceberry | AMAR3 | Amelanchier arborea | Native | 5–10 | 5–10 | |
| sassafras | SAAL5 | Sassafras albidum | Native | 5–10 | 5–10 | |
| flowering dogwood | COFL2 | Cornus florida | Native | 5–10 | 5–10 | |
| white ash | FRAM2 | Fraxinus americana | Native | 5–10 | 0–5 | |
| northern red oak | QURU | Quercus rubra | Native | 5–10 | 0–5 | |
| black oak | QUVE | Quercus velutina | Native | 5–10 | 0–5 | |
| bitternut hickory | CACO15 | Carya cordiformis | Native | 5–10 | 0–5 | |
Interpretations
Animal community
Wildlife (MDC, 2006):
Wildlife habitat: Oaks on this site provide abundant hard mast; scattered shrubs provide soft mast; native legumes provide high-quality wildlife food.
Sedges and native cool-season grasses provide green browse; native warm-season grasses provide cover and nesting habitat; and a diversity of forbs provides a diversity and abundance of insects.
Post-burn areas can provide temporary bare-ground and herbaceous cover habitat is important for turkey poults and quail chicks.
Birds species associated with this site are Indigo Bunting, Red-headed Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, Northern Bobwhite, Summer Tanager, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Whip-poor-will, Chuck-will’s widow, Red-eyed Vireo, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and Broad-winged Hawk.
Reptile and amphibian species include ornate box turtle, northern fence lizard, five-lined skink, broad-headed skink, six-lined racerunner, flat-headed snake, rough earth snake, and timber rattlesnake.
Domestic livestock: Currently, domestic cattle grazing is absent or very limited on wooded sites due to lack of water, access issues, and high amounts of acorns on the ground in the fall that are detrimental to cattle. On sites that have been cleared of trees and converted to cool-season grasses cattle grazing occurs. Heavily grazed pasture states can reduce water quality through exposed mineral soil and lack of adequate ground/overstory cover that increases soil erosion and soil compaction.
Hydrological functions
The water features of this upland ecological site include evapotranspiration, surface runoff, and drainage. Each water balance component fluctuates to varying extents from year-to-year. Evapotranspiration remains the most constant. Precipitation and drainage are highly variable between years. Seasonal variability differs for each water component. Precipitation generally occurs as single day events. Evapotranspiration is lowest in the winter and peaks in the summer. Water stored as ice and snow decreases drainage and surface runoff rates throughout the winter and increases these fluxes in the spring. The surface runoff pulse is greatly influenced by extreme events. Conversion to cropland or other high intensities land uses tends to increase runoff, but also decreases evapotranspiration. Depending on the situation, this might increase groundwater discharge, and decrease baseflow in receiving streams.
Recreational uses
Hunting, bird watching, horseback riding, camping, and hiking are recreational uses of this ecological site. Reference and well managed sites provide good hunting for turkey, white-tailed deer, and squirrel. Recreational uses are reduced in the heavily grazed grassland state and high-graded woodland state.
Wood products
This ecological site is moderately productive. Timber harvesting can occur but care must be taken to maintain the integrity and character of the site.
Potential products include lumber, oak staves, pallet materials, and in some cases oak veneer (only on well managed or old growth sites).
Management: Field measured site index values range from 47 to 56 for northern red oak, 48 to 63 for black oak, and 59 for shortleaf pine (NRCS, 2014). Higher site index values are usually associated with protected and lower slopes and lesser site index values associated with exposed and upland slopes. Forest management opportunities are generally good. These groups respond well to even-aged management. Restrict clear cuttings to less than 30 acres or group selection cuttings of 2 to 5 acres. Uneven-aged management using single tree selection and crop tree release are other options that can be used if clear cutting is not desired or warranted or if sites occur on exposed slopes. Using prescribed fire as a management tool could have a negative impact timber quality, may not be fitting, or should be used with caution on a particular site if timber management is the primary objective. Favor white oak and northern red oak on higher productivity sites and black oak, scarlet oak and shortleaf pine (Ozark region) on lower productivity sites (NRCS, 2002).
Limitations: No major equipment restrictions or limitations exist; coarse fragments are possible in subsurface profile; restricted soil depth. Moderate seedling mortality during low rainfall periods due to possible limited rooting depth and low to moderate available water capacity. Disturbing the surface excessively during site preparation activities increases soil losses, which may also leave coarse fragments on the surface. Erosion is a hazard when slopes exceed 15 percent. On steep slopes, traction problems increase. Track type equipment or yarding with cables may be necessary (NRCS, 2002).
Other products
Additional opportunities exist in the reference and well managed woodland states for agroforestry undertakings like wild crafting activities, such as seasonal harvesting spring and summer florals and native blueberries.
Other information
Historically, black bears were common across the area. Their reduced numbers were directly correlated with the westward expansion of the European settlers and uncontrolled hunting. Like other mobile animals in the area, bears would have used multiple ecological sites. Other predators like the mountain lion and wolf have disappeared from these sites in a similar manner.
Today sightings of black bears and mountain lions are increasing throughout the area due a natural migration of these species from other states and regions.
Supporting information
Inventory data references
The data contained in this document is derived from analysis of inventories, ecological interpretation from field evaluations, and various reference papers and books.
Nelson, Paul W. 2010. The Terrestrial Natural Communities of Missouri. Missouri Department of Conservation, Jefferson City, Missouri.
Yatskievych, George A. 1999/2006/2013. Flora of Missouri. Missouri Dept. of Conservation in cooperation with Missouri Botanical Garden Press, Volumes 1-3.
Sampling methods (nested plots/transects/releve)
Reference Inventory Plots:
BUMOCA01 Buford Mountain CA; Mudlick
BUMOCA02 Buford Mountain CA; Mudlick
TASASP03 Taum Sauk SP; Trackler
HUMOCA04 Hughes Mountain CA; Trackler
Level 2 and reconnaissance inventory:
2003: Nigh/Meinert-Initial reconnaissance/site mapping. Three weeks of recon on numerous 116C sites.
2007: Reconnaissance plots on Stegall Mountain and Taum Sauk Mountain.
2012: Central States Forest Soils Workshop field sites (6) in 116C.
2013: Reconnaissance on numerous igneous mountains working on reference plots. Taum Sauk, Hughes, Peck Ranch, Russel Mountain, Johnson Shut-Ins, Mill Mountain NA, Buford
Type locality
| Location 1: Iron County, MO | |
|---|---|
| Township/Range/Section | T35N R3E S34 |
| UTM zone | N |
| UTM northing | 4174745 |
| UTM easting | 703570 |
| Latitude | 37° 41′ 50″ |
| Longitude | -90° 41′ 27″ |
| General legal description | Igneous Upland Woodland at Buford Mountain Conservation Area. |
| Location 2: Iron County, MO | |
| Township/Range/Section | T35N R3E S34 |
| UTM zone | N |
| UTM northing | 4174753 |
| UTM easting | 703461 |
| Latitude | 37° 41′ 50″ |
| Longitude | -90° 41′ 31″ |
| General legal description | Igneous Upland Woodland at Buford Mountain Conservation Area. |
| Location 3: Washington County, MO | |
| Township/Range/Section | T36N R3E S28 |
| UTM zone | N |
| UTM northing | 4186644 |
| UTM easting | 701364 |
| Latitude | 37° 48′ 17″ |
| Longitude | -90° 42′ 45″ |
| General legal description | Igneous Upland Woodland at Hughes Mountain Conservation Area. |
Other references
Batek, M.J., A.J. Rebertus, W.A. Schroeder, T.L. Haithcoat, E. Compas, and R.P. Guyette. 1999. Reconstruction of early nineteenth-century vegetation and fire regimes in the Missouri Ozarks. Journal of Biogeography 26:397-412.
Conant, R. T., K. Paustian, and E. T. Elliott. 2001. Grassland management and conversion
into grassland: effects on soil carbon. Ecological Applications, 11(2). pp. 343–355
Frost, C., 1996. Pre-settlement Fire Frequency Regimes of the United States: A First
Approximation. Pages 70-81, Proceedings of the 20nd Tall Timbers Fire Ecology
Conference: Fire in Ecosystem Management: Shifting the Paradigm from Suppression to
Prescription. Tall Timbers Research Station, Tallahassee, FL.
Guyette, R.P. and B.E. Cutter. 1991. Tree-ring analysis of fire history of a post oak
savanna in the Missouri Ozarks. Natural Areas Journal 11: 93-99.
Harlan, J.D., T.A. Nigh and W.A. Schroeder. 2001. The Missouri original General Land Office survey notes project. University of Missouri, Columbia.
Ladd, D. 1991. Reexamination of the role of fire in Missouri oak woodlands. Pp. 67-80 in
G.V. Brown, James K.; Smith, Jane Kapler, eds. 2000. Wildland fire in ecosystems: effects
of fire on flora. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-42-vol. 2. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 257 p.
Missouri Natural Heritage Inventory Database. 2013. Woodland element occurrence
records. Missouri Department of Conservation. Jefferson City, Missouri.
Missouri Department of Conservation, 2006. Missouri Forest and Woodland Community
Profiles. Jefferson City, Missouri.
National Vegetation Classification System Vegetation Association. 2010.
http://www.natureserve.org/prodServices/ecomapping.jsp
Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2002. Woodland Suitability Groups. Missouri
FOTG, Section II, Soil Interpretations and Reports. 30 pgs.
Natural Resources Conservation Service. Site Index Reports. Accessed May 2014.
https://esi.sc.egov.usda.gov/ESI_Forestland/pgFSWelcome.aspx
Nelson, P. W. 2010. The Terrestrial Natural Communities of Missouri. Missouri Department
of Conservation, Jefferson City, Missouri. 550 p.
Nigh, T. A., and W. A. Schroeder. 2002. Atlas of Missouri Ecoregions. Missouri
Department of Conservation, Jefferson City, Missouri. 212 p.
Schellberg, J., B. Möseler, W. Kühbauch and A. Rademacher. 1999. Long-term effects of
fertilizer on soil nutrient concentration, yield, forage quality and floristic composition of a
hay meadow in the Eifel Mountains, Germany. Grass and Forage Science, 54: 195–207.
Schoolcraft, H.R. 1821. Journal of a tour into the interior of Missouri and Arkansas from Potosi, or Mine a Burton, in Missouri territory, in a southwest direction, toward the Rocky Mountains: performed in the years 1818 and 1819. Richard Phillips and Company, London.
Simmons, M., J. D. Childress, K. Godsey, and R. Taylor. 2006. Soil Survey of Reynolds
County, Missouri. U.S. Dept. of Agric. Natural Resources Conservation Service.
United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 2006. Land Resource Regions and Major Land Resource Areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 296. 682 pgs.
University of Missouri Climate Center - http://climate.missouri.edu/climate.php
Yatskievych, George A. 1999/2006/2013. Flora of Missouri. Missouri Dept. of Conservation
in cooperation with Missouri Botanical Garden Press, Volumes 1-3.
Contributors
Douglas Wallace
Fred Young
Acknowledgments
Missouri Department of Conservation and Missouri Department of Natural Resources personnel provided significant and helpful field and technical support in the development of this ecological site.
Rangeland health reference sheet
Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health is a qualitative assessment protocol used to determine ecosystem condition based on benchmark characteristics described in the Reference Sheet. A suite of 17 (or more) indicators are typically considered in an assessment. The ecological site(s) representative of an assessment location must be known prior to applying the protocol and must be verified based on soils and climate. Current plant community cannot be used to identify the ecological site.
| Author(s)/participant(s) | |
|---|---|
| Contact for lead author | |
| Date | 09/07/2022 |
| Approved by | Nels Barrett |
| Approval date | |
| Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on | Annual Production |
Indicators
-
Number and extent of rills:
-
Presence of water flow patterns:
-
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
-
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
-
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
-
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
-
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
-
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
-
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
-
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
-
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
-
Functional/Structural Groups (list in order of descending dominance by above-ground annual-production or live foliar cover using symbols: >>, >, = to indicate much greater than, greater than, and equal to):
Dominant:
Sub-dominant:
Other:
Additional:
-
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
-
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
-
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
-
Potential invasive (including noxious) species (native and non-native). List species which BOTH characterize degraded states and have the potential to become a dominant or co-dominant species on the ecological site if their future establishment and growth is not actively controlled by management interventions. Species that become dominant for only one to several years (e.g., short-term response to drought or wildfire) are not invasive plants. Note that unlike other indicators, we are describing what is NOT expected in the reference state for the ecological site:
-
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
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