Mesic Colluvium Cool Aspect
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T1A More details
- Transition T1B More details
- Restoration pathway R2A More details
- Restoration pathway R3A More details
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Description
The reference state includes one major NatureServe ecological systems as described previously, Southern Appalachian Oak Forest. Oaks now dominate this site where American chestnut once would have been a major species dominant in the canopy. Invasive, non-native forest pests and pathogens such as American chestnut blight, dogwood anthracnose, and European gypsy moth (among others) are a threat to this PES where it is in reference conditions. In protected positions cove forests may also occur.
Description
The USDA-NRCS Official Series Descriptions (OSDs) for the soils included in this PES list the following as potentially important agricultural uses: pasture, corn, small grain, tobacco, truck crops, clover, lespedeza, orchards, and ornamentals. Where forested, forestry practices may be important, depending on the conditions of existing stands. Further investigation in the field is needed as future projects are identified to refine this PES into what will most likely become multiple ecological sites.
Description
Perhaps the greatest challenge to the integrity of this ecological site is the presence of invasive, non-native pests and pathogens. The impact and response vary by species (both of the host and the invader) but often will include combinations of mechanical, biological, chemical and cultural control. Tree breeding programs for genetic resistance and germplasm conservation may be important considerations, especially in front an incoming invasion if reforestation is planned after it passes. It is always best if local genetic material can be used if restoration efforts are attempted.
Mechanism
Conversion to agricultural production. The USDA-NRCS Official Series Descriptions (OSDs) for the soils included in this PES list the following as potentially important agricultural uses: pasture, corn, small grain, tobacco, truck crops, clover, lespedeza, orchards, and ornamentals. Exact practices for the establishment of agriculture would be quite variable and dependent on the management goal and site-specific conditions.
Mechanism
Abandonment (~100 years until reversion to forest); control of non-native plants and pests where needed.
Model keys
Briefcase
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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.