Steep Shale
Scenario model
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Management practices/drivers
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- Transition T1A More details
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
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Description
Mature stands include a mixture of hardwood and pine species. In some cases, pockets of shortleaf pine, Virginia pine and white pine may be present. Forestry is the most important land-use on this site. It is not well suited for crops or pasture. Species noted include white oak, shagbark hickory, pignut hickory, American beech and tulip poplar. Across this state, micro-climate affects the composition and distribution of species. In older stands where there may be more available water due to proximity to streams or a drainage position, hardwoods will dominate. On more exposed ridges, pine typically becomes more prevalent.
Natural disturbances include ice, wind, and fire. These have historically been very important in regenerating stands. Human induced disturbances include mining, forestry practices such as clear-cutting, and fire.
Loblolly pine plantations are an important land-use on this site. Fire (prescribed) is an important management tool where they are established.
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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.