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Ecological site R024XY032NV
LOAMY SLOPE 14+ P.Z.
Last updated: 3/06/2025
Accessed: 05/03/2026
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Provisional. A provisional ecological site description has undergone quality control and quality assurance review. It contains a working state and transition model and enough information to identify the ecological site.
MLRA notes
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 024X–Humboldt Basin and Range Area
Major land resource area (MLRA) 24, the Humboldt Area, covers an area of approximately 8,115,200 acres (12,680 sq. mi.). It is found in the Great Basin Section of the Basin and Range Province of the Intermontane Plateaus. Elevations range from 3,950 to 5,900 feet (1,205 to 1,800 meters) in most of the area, some mountain peaks are more than 8,850 feet (2,700 meters).
A series of widely spaced north-south trending mountain ranges are separated by broad valleys filled with alluvium washed in from adjacent mountain ranges. Most valleys are drained by tributaries to the Humboldt River. However, playas occur in lower elevation valleys with closed drainage systems. Isolated ranges are dissected, uplifted fault-block mountains. Geology is comprised of Mesozoic and Paleozoic volcanic rock and marine and continental sediments. Occasional young andesite and basalt flows (6 to 17 million years old) occur at the margins of the mountains. Dominant soil orders include Aridisols, Entisols, Inceptisols and Mollisols. Soils of the area are generally characterized by a mesic soil temperature regime, an aridic soil moisture regime and mixed geology. They are generally well drained, loamy and very deep.
Approximately 75 percent of MLRA 24 is federally owned, the remainder is primarily used for farming, ranching and mining. Irrigated land makes up about 3 percent of the area; the majority of irrigation water is from surface water sources, such as the Humboldt River and Rye Patch Reservoir. Annual precipitation ranges from 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) for most of the area, but can be as much as 40 inches (101 cm) in the mountain ranges. The majority of annual precipitation occurs as snow in the winter. Rainfall occurs as high-intensity, convective thunderstorms in the spring and fall.Ecological site concept
This site is on concave north facing mountain side slopes. Soils are deep, well drained and formed in colluvium/residuum derived from mixed parent material. The soil profile is characterized by a mollic (pachic) epipedon and greater than 35 percent rock fragments by volume.
Important abiotic factors contributing to the presence of this ecological site include the northern aspect, concave slope shape and landscape position that concentrates snow and run-in moisture.Associated sites
R024XY016NV Mountain Ridge
Soils very shallow to shallow with greater than 40 percent rock fragments; less productive site
R024XY029NV SOUTH SLOPE 12-16 P.Z.
Sites include a south-west to south-east aspects. The reference plant community is dominated by mountain big sagebrush (ARTRV) and bluebunch wheatgrass (PSSPS)
R024XY021NV Loamy Slope 12-14 P.Z.
Soils are moderately deep, well drained, and formed in residuum/colluvium derived from volcanic parent material. The soil profile is characterized by a dark surface horizon (mollic epipedon), a horizon of clay accumulation (argillic horizon) within 30 centimeters, and 18-35 percent clay in the particle size control section.
R024XY023NV NORTH SLOPE 14+ P.Z.
The soil profile is characterized by a pachic epipedon and greater than 35 percent rock fragments in the particle size control section. The north aspect and the thick mollic epipedon reflecting the increased vegetative production due to increased available soil moisture. Site dominated by Mountain big sagebrush (ARTRV)/ Idaho fescue (FEID); soils very deep, higher AWC.
R024XY027NV CLAYPAN 12-16 P.Z.
Soils are moderately deep, well drained and formed in residuum derived from volcanic parent material. Sites include an abrupt boundary in the upper soil profile that results in wet non-satiated conditions during the spring and early summer. Under natural conditions the reference state is dominated by low sagebrush (ARAR8), Idaho fescue (FEID), and bluebunch wheatgrass (PSSPS).
R024XY034NV STONY LOAM 14+ P.Z.
This site is on smooth to usually concave mountain side slopes on all aspects. The site is typically associated with talus and rubble land lying below areas of rock outcrop. Slopes range from 15 to 75 percent, but slope gradients of 30 to 50 percent are typical.
R024XY046NV GRAVELLY NORTH SLOPE
This ecological site occurs on mountain sideslopes with northern aspects. Soils are very deep, well drained and formed in colluvium derived from mixed rocks. The soil profile is characterized by a mollic epipedon and greater than 35 percent rock fragments distributed throughout the profile.
Similar sites
R024XY034NV STONY LOAM 14+ P.Z.
Idaho fescue (FEID)- Bluebunch wheat grass (PSSPS) codominant grasses with Mountain brome (BRMA4); aspect dominated by heterogeneous mixture of mountain browse species, including Utah serviceberry (AMUT), Oceanspray (HODU), Snowberry (SYMPH), Basin big sagebrush (ARTR4), Currant (RIBES) and Mountain big sagebrush (ARVA2).
R024XY021NV Loamy Slope 12-14 P.Z.
Idaho fescue (FEID)- Bluebunch wheat grass (PSSPS) codominant grasses; less productive site.
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub (1) Artemisia tridentata subsp. vaseyana
Herbaceous (1) Bromus marginatus
(2) Festuca idahoensisPhysiographic features
This site is on lower mountain side slopes and intermountain valley fans on all aspects. Slopes range from 4 to 50 percent, but slope gradients of 8 to 30 percent are typical. Elevations are 6500 to about 8500 feet.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Mountain slope
(2) Intermontane basin > Fan
(3) Valley
Runoff class Medium to very high Flooding frequency None Ponding frequency None Elevation 6500 – 8500 ft Slope 4 – 50 % Water table depth 72 – 0 in Aspect W, NW, N, NE, E, SE, S, SW Climatic features
The climate associated with this site is semiarid, characterized by cold, moist winters and cool, dry summers. Average annual precipitation is 12 to 14 inches (31 to 36cm). Mean annual air temperature is 43 to 47 degrees F. The average growing season is about 75 to 100 days.
Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (average) 100 days Freeze-free period (average) Precipitation total (average) 10 in BarLineFigure 1. Monthly precipitation range
BarLineFigure 2. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
">Influencing water features
There are no influencing water features associated with this site.
Soil features
The soils associated with this site are deep, well drained and formed in residuum/colluvium derived from mixed parent material. Soils are characterized by a mollic (pachic) epipedon, greater than 35 percent rock fragments and underlying bedrock between 39 to 59 inches (100 to 150cm). Soil temperature regime is cryic and soil moisture regimes in xeric.
Elevation, precipitation zone, landform position and slope shape are responsible for snow accumulation that persists on this site late into spring when the soil is not frozen. Snow melt, at this time, is added to the soil moisture supply and is available during most of the active growth period. Runoff is medium to very high. Soil series associated with this site include: Hapgood, Harcany, and Tusel.Table 4. Representative soil features
Parent material (1) Residuum
(2) Colluvium
Surface texture (1) Very gravelly loam
(2) Stony silt loam
Family particle size (1) Loamy
Drainage class Well drained Permeability class Moderately slow to moderate Soil depth 40 – 80 in Surface fragment cover <=3" 25 – 40 % Surface fragment cover >3" 0 – 6 % Available water capacity
(0-40in)Not specified Calcium carbonate equivalent
(0-40in)3 – 5 % Electrical conductivity
(0-40in)Not specified Sodium adsorption ratio
(0-40in)Not specified Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-40in)6.6 – 7 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(Depth not specified)30 – 60 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(Depth not specified)0 – 20 % Ecological dynamics
An ecological site is the product of all the environmental factors responsible for its development and it has a set of key characteristics that influence a site’s resilience to disturbance and resistance to invasives. Key characteristics include 1) climate (precipitation, temperature), 2) topography (aspect, slope, elevation, and landform), 3) hydrology (infiltration, runoff), 4) soils (depth, texture, structure, organic matter), 5) plant communities (functional groups, productivity), and 6) natural disturbance regime (fire, herbivory, etc.) (Caudle et al. 2013). Biotic factors that that influence resilience include site productivity, species composition and structure, and population regulation and regeneration (Chambers et al. 2013).
This ecological site is dominated by deep-rooted cool season, perennial bunchgrasses and long-lived shrubs (50+ years) with high root to shoot ratios. The dominant shrubs usually root to the full depth of the winter-spring soil moisture recharge, which ranges from 1.0 to over 3.0 m (Dobrowolski et al. 1990). Root length of mature sagebrush plants was measured to a depth of 2 meters in alluvial soils in Utah (Richards and Caldwell 1987). These shrubs have a flexible generalized root system with development of both deep taproots and laterals near the surface (Comstock and Ehleringer 1992).
Periodic drought regularly influences sagebrush ecosystems and drought duration and severity has increased throughout the 20th century in much of the Intermountain West. Major shifts away from historical precipitation patterns have the greatest potential to alter ecosystem function and productivity. Species composition and productivity can be altered by the timing of precipitation and water availability within the soil profile (Bates et al. 2006). Mountain big sagebrush are generally long-lived; therefore it is not necessary for new individuals to recruit every year for perpetuation of the stand. Infrequent large recruitment events and simultaneous low, continuous recruitment is the foundation of population maintenance (Noy-Meir 1973). Survival of the seedlings is dependent on adequate moisture conditions.
Native insect outbreaks are also important drivers of ecosystem dynamics in sagebrush communities. Climate is generally believed to influence the timing of insect outbreaks especially a sagebrush defoliator, Aroga moth (Aroga websteri). Aroga moth infestations have occurred in the Great Basin in the 1960s, early 1970s, and have been ongoing in Nevada since 2004 (Bentz et al 2008). Thousands of acres of big sagebrush have been impacted, with partial to complete die-off observed. Aroga moth can partially or entirely kill individual plants or entire stands of big sagebrush (Furniss and Barr 1975).
The Great Basin sagebrush communities have high spatial and temporal variability in precipitation both among years and within growing seasons. Nutrient availability is typically low but increases with elevation and closely follows moisture availability. The invasibility of plant communities is often linked to resource availability. Disturbance can decrease resource uptake due to damage or mortality of the native species and depressed competition or can increase resource pools by the decomposition of dead plant material following disturbance. The invasion of sagebrush communities by cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) has been linked to disturbances (fire, abusive grazing) that have resulted in fluctuations in resources (Chambers et al. 2007).
Production will be higher on sites with deeper soils. Overgrazing by livestock and horses will cause a decrease in deep-rooted perennial bunchgrasses, mainly Idaho fescue and needlegrasses. As grass cover declines, the potential for invasion by annual non-native species likely cheatgrass.
This ecological site has medium to high resilience to disturbance and resistance to invasion. Increased resilience increases with elevation, aspect, increased precipitation and increased nutrient availability. Three possible stable states have been identified for this site.
Fire Ecology:
Pre-settlement fire return intervals in mountain big sagebrush communities varied from 15 to 25 years (Burkhardt and Tisdale 1969, Houston 1973, and Miller et al. 2000). Mountain big sagebrush is killed by fire (Neunschwander 1980, Blaisdell et al. 1982) and does not resprout (Blaisdell 1953). Post fire regeneration occurs from seed and will vary depending on site characteristics, seed source, and fire characteristics. Mountain big sagebrush seedlings can grow rapidly and may reach reproductive maturity within 3 to 5 years (Bunting et al. 1987). Mountain big sagebrush may return to pre-burn density and cover within 15-20 years following fire, but establishment after severe fires may proceed more slowly (Bunting et al. 1987). The introduction of annual weedy species, like cheatgrass, may cause an increase in fire frequency and eventually lead to an annual dominated community. Conversely, as fire frequency decreases, sagebrush will increase and the potential for encroachment by piñon and juniper also increases. Eventually, piñon and juniper will dominate the site and mountain big sagebrush will be severely reduced along with the herbaceous understory. Idaho fescue may remain underneath trees on north facing slopes. The potential for soil erosion increases as the juniper woodland matures and the understory plant community cover declines. Catastrophic wildfire in juniper controlled sites may lead to an annual weed dominated site.
Depending on fire severity, rabbitbrush, Utah serviceberry (Amelanchier utahensis), desert peach (Prunus andersonii) and mountain snowberry (Symphoricarpos orbiculatus) may increase after fire due to their ability to sprout. Douglas’ rabbitbrush is top-killed by fire, but sprouts vigorously after fire (Kuntz 1982, Akinsoji 1988). Mountain snowberry is also top-killed by fire, but resprouts after fire from rhizomes (Leege and Hickey 1971, Noste and Bushey 1987). Snowberry has been noted to regenerate well and exceed pre-burn biomass in the third season after a fire (Merrill et al. 1982). Utah serviceberry resprouts from the root crown. If balsamroot is common before fire, they will increase after fire or with heavy grazing (Wright 1985). As cheatgrass increases fire frequencies will also increase, at frequencies between 0.23 and 0.43 times a year, even sprouting shrubs such as rabbitbrush will not survive (Whisenant 1990).
The effect of fire on bunchgrasses relates to culm density, culm-leaf morphology, and the size of the plant. The initial condition of bunchgrasses within the site along with seasonality and intensity of the fire all factor into the individual species response. For most forbs and grasses the growing points are located at or below the soil surface providing relative protection from disturbances which decrease above ground biomass, such as grazing or fire. Thus, fire mortality is more correlated to duration and intensity of heat which is related to culm density, culm-leaf morphology, size of plant and abundance of old growth (Wright 1971, Young 1983)
Idaho fescue response to fire varies with condition and size of the plant, season and severity of fire, and ecological conditions. Mature Idaho fescue plants are commonly reported to be severely damaged by fire in all seasons (Wright et al. 1979). Initial mortality may be high (in excess of 75%) on severe burns, but usually varies from 20 to 50 percent (Barrington et al 1988). Rapid burns have been found to leave little damage to root crowns, and new tillers are produced with onset of fall moisture (Johnson et al. 1994). However, Wright and others (1979) found the dense, fine leaves of Idaho fescue provided enough fuel to burn for hours after a fire had passed, thereby killing or seriously injuring the plant regardless of the intensity of the fire (Wright et al. 1979). Idaho fescue is commonly reported to be more sensitive to fire than the other prominent grass on this site, bluebunch wheatgrass (Conrad and Poulton 1966). However, Robberecht and Defosse (1995) suggested the latter was more sensitive. They observed culm and biomass reduction with moderate fire severity in bluebunch wheatgrass, whereas a high fire severity was required for this reduction in Idaho fescue. Also, given the same fire severity treatment, post-fire culm production was initiated earlier and more rapidly in Idaho fescue (Robberecht and Defosse 1995).
Bluebunch wheatgrass has coarse stems with little leafy material, therefore the aboveground biomass burns rapidly and little heat is transferred downward into the crowns (Young 1983). Bluebunch wheatgrass was described as fairly tolerant of burning, other than in early spring in eastern Oregon (Britton et al. 1990). Uresk et al. (1976) reported burning increased vegetative and reproductive vigor of bluebunch wheatgrass. Thus, bluebunch wheatgrass is considered to experience slight damage to fire but is more susceptible in drought years (Young 1983). Most authors classify the plant as undamaged by fire (Kuntz 1982).
Basin wildrye is a minor component of this plant community, is relatively resistant to fire, particularly dormant season fire, as plants sprout from surviving root crowns and rhizomes (Zschaechner 1985).State and transition model
Custom diagramStandard diagram
Figure 3. State and Transition Model
Figure 4. STM Narrative
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More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective textEcosystem states
State 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference StateThe Reference State is a representative of the natural range of variability under pristine conditions. The reference state has three general community phases: a shrub-grass dominant phase, a perennial grass dominant phase and a shrub dominant phase. State dynamics are maintained by interactions between climatic patterns and disturbance regimes. Negative feedbacks enhance ecosystem resilience and contribute to the stability of the state. These include the presence of all structural and functional groups, low fine fuel loads, and retention of organic matter and nutrients. Plant community phase changes are primarily driven by fire, periodic drought and/or insect or disease attack.
Community 1.1
Reference Plant CommunityThe plant community is dominated by Idaho fescue, bluebunch wheatgrass and basin wildrye. Mountain big sagebrush is the principal shrub and may dominate the aspect. An assortment of perennial forbs is present and may comprise a significant portion of total production.
Figure 5. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 5. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 660 825 1210 Shrub/Vine 345 420 615 Forb 180 225 330 Tree 15 30 45 Total 1200 1500 2200 Community 1.2
Community Phase 1.2This community phase is characteristic of a post-disturbance, early seral community phase. Idaho fescue, bluebunch wheatgrass and other perennial grasses dominate. Douglas rabbitbrush, mountain snowberry and Utah serviceberry may be sprouting. Big sagebrush is killed by fire, therefore decreasing within the burned community. Depending on fire severity or intensity of Aroga moth infestations, patches of intact sagebrush may remain. Perennial forbs may increase post-fire but will likely return to pre-burn levels within a few years.
Community 1.3
Community Phase 1.3
Figure 6. P.NovakEchenique NV775 MU281 Harcany 7/2015
Mountain big sagebrush increases in the absence of disturbance. Decadent sagebrush dominates the overstory and the deep-rooted perennial bunchgrasses in the understory are reduced either from competition with shrubs and/or from herbivory.
Pathway 1.1a
Community 1.1 to 1.2Fire will decrease or eliminate the overstory of sagebrush and allow for the perennial bunchgrasses to dominate the site. Fires will typically be low severity resulting in a mosaic pattern due to low fuel loads. A fire following an unusually wet spring or a change in management may be more severe and reduce sagebrush cover to trace amounts. A severe infestation of Aroga moth could also cause a large decrease in sagebrush within the community, giving a competitive advantage to the perennial grasses and forbs.
Pathway 1.1b
Community 1.1 to 1.3Time and lack of disturbance such as fire allows for sagebrush to increase and become decadent. Long-term drought, herbivory, or combinations of these will cause a decline in perennial bunchgrasses and fine fuels leading to a reduced fire frequency allowing big sagebrush to dominate the site.
Pathway 1.2a
Community 1.2 to 1.1Time and lack of disturbance will allow the mountain big sagebrush to recover/increase.
Pathway 1.3a
Community 1.3 to 1.1A low severity fire, Aroga moth or combinations will reduce the sagebrush overstory and create a sagebrush/grass mosaic with sagebrush and perennial bunchgrasses codominant.
Pathway 1.3b
Community 1.3 to 1.2Fire will decrease or eliminate the overstory of sagebrush and allow for the perennial bunchgrasses to dominate the site. Fires will typically be low severity due to low fine fuel loads. A fire following an unusually wet spring or a change in management may be more severe and reduce sagebrush cover to trace amounts. A severe infestation of Aroga moth could also cause a large decrease in sagebrush within the community, giving a competitive advantage to the perennial grasses and forbs.
State 2
Current Potential StateThis state is similar to the Reference State 1.0 with three similar community phases and a forth community phase of increased annual non-native species. Ecological function has not changed, however the resiliency of the state has been reduced by the presence of invasive weeds. Non-natives may increase in abundance but will not become dominant within this State. These non-natives can be highly flammable, and can promote fire where historically fire had been infrequent. Negative feedbacks enhance ecosystem resilience and contribute to the stability of the state. These include the presence of all structural and functional groups, low fine fuel loads and retention of organic matter and nutrients. Positive feedbacks decrease ecosystem resilience and stability of the state. These include the non-natives’ high seed output, persistent seed bank, rapid growth rate, ability to cross pollinate and adaptations for seed dispersal.
Community 2.1
Community Phase 2.1This community phase is similar to the Reference State Community Phase 1.1, with the presence of non-native species in trace amounts. The plant community is dominated by Idaho fescue, bluebunch wheatgrass and basin wildrye. Mountain big sagebrush is the dominant shrub. Smooth brome or other perennial non-native bunchgrasses may be present. Cheatgrass is the species most likely to invade.
Community 2.2
Community Phase 2.2This community phase is characteristic of a post-disturbance, early seral community phase where non-native species are present. Idaho fescue, bluebunch wheatgrass and other perennial grasses dominate. Douglas rabbitbrush, mountain snowberry, desert peach and Utah serviceberry may be resprouting. Depending on fire severity or intensity of Aroga moth infestations, patches of intact sagebrush may remain. Perennial forbs may increase post-fire but will likely return to pre-burn levels within a few years. Annual non-native species are stable or increasing within the community.
Community 2.3
Community Phase 2.3 (At Risk)Mountain big sagebrush, rabbitbrush and other shrubs increase, Idaho fescue and bluebunch wheatgrass decrease. Sandberg bluegrass may be increasing. Cheatgrass and other non-native species are stable to increasing. Juniper and pinyon may be present as a result of encroachment from neighboring sites, and lack of disturbance.
Community 2.4
Community Phase 2.4 (At Risk)This community is At Risk of crossing into an annual state. Native bunchgrasses dominate; however, annual non-native species such as cheatgrass may be sub-dominant in the understory. Annual production and abundance of these annuals may increase drastically in years with heavy spring precipitation. Seeded species may be present. Grazing management targeted at shrubs can decrease sagebrush and increase perennial forbs. This site is susceptible to further degradation from grazing, drought, and fire.
Pathway 2.1a
Community 2.1 to 2.2Fire will decrease or eliminate the overstory of sagebrush and allow for the perennial bunchgrasses to dominate the site. Fires will typically be small and patchy due to low fuel loads. A fire following an unusually wet spring or a change in management may be more severe and reduce sagebrush cover to trace amounts. A severe infestation of Aroga moth could also cause a large decrease in sagebrush within the community, giving a competitive advantage to the perennial grasses and forbs.
Pathway 2.1b
Community 2.1 to 2.3Time and lack of disturbance allows for sagebrush to increase and become decadent. Chronic drought will reduce fine fuels and lead to a reduced fire frequency allowing big sagebrush to dominate the site. Inappropriate grazing management will reduce the perennial bunchgrass understory; conversely Sandberg bluegrass may increase in the understory depending on grazing management. Excessive sheep grazing favors Sandberg bluegrass; however, where cattle are the dominant grazers, cheatgrass often increases.
Pathway 2.1c
Community 2.1 to 2.4Grazing management targeted at shrubs (i.e. sheep) reduces sagebrush canopy. Inappropriate sheep grazing management allows unpalatable forbs to increase. Higher than normal spring precipitation favors annual non-native species such as cheatgrass and can increase overall production on the site.
Pathway 2.2a
Community 2.2 to 2.1Time and lack of disturbance and/or grazing management that favors the establishment and growth of sagebrush allows the shrub component to recover. The establishment of big sagebrush may take many years.
Pathway 2.2b
Community 2.2 to 2.4Higher than normal spring precipitation favors annual non-native species such as cheatgrass. Non-native annual species will increase in production and density throughout the site. Perennial bunchgrasses may also increase in production.
Pathway 2.3a
Community 2.3 to 2.1Grazing management that reduces shrubs will allow for the perennial bunchgrasses in the understory to increase. Heavy late-fall/winter grazing may cause mechanical damage to sagebrush thus promoting the perennial bunchgrass understory. Brush treatments with minimal soil disturbance will also decrease sagebrush and release the perennial understory. Annual non-native species are present and may increase in the community. A low severity fire would decrease the overstory of sagebrush and allow for the understory perennial grasses to increase. Due to low fuel loads in this State, fires will likely be small creating a mosaic pattern.
Pathway 2.3b
Community 2.3 to 2.2Fire will decrease or eliminate the overstory of sagebrush and allow for the perennial bunchgrasses to dominate the site. Fires will typically be high intensity due to the dominance of sagebrush resulting in removal of the overstory shrub community. Annual non-native species respond well to fire and may increase post-burn. Brush treatment would reduce sagebrush overstory and allow for perennial bunchgrasses to increase.
Pathway 2.3c
Community 2.3 to 2.4Grazing management targeted at shrubs (i.e. sheep) reduces sagebrush canopy. Inappropriate sheep grazing management allows unpalatable forbs to increase. Higher than normal spring precipitation favors annual non-native species such as cheatgrass and can increase overall production on the site.
Pathway 2.4a
Community 2.4 to 2.2Rainfall patterns favoring perennial bunchgrasses. Less than normal spring precipitation followed by higher than normal summer precipitation will increase perennial bunchgrass production.
Pathway 2.4b
Community 2.4 to 2.3Rainfall patterns favoring perennial bunchgrasses. Less than normal spring precipitation followed by higher than normal summer precipitation will increase perennial bunchgrass production. Grazing management may allow for sagebrush to increase.
State 3
Shrub StateThis state has two community phases; a mountain big sagebrush dominated phase and a perennial bunchgrasses/sprouting shrub dominated phase. This state is a product of heavy grazing during time periods harmful to perennial bunchgrasses and lack of frequent wildfires. Sagebrush dominates the overstory. Sagebrush cover exceeds site concept and may be decadent, reflecting stand maturity and lack of seedling establishment due to competition with mature plants.
Community 3.1
Community Phase 3.1This site has crossed a biotic threshold and site processes (soil hydrology, nutrient cycling, and energy capture) are being controlled by the shrub component. Deep-rooted perennial bunchgrasses may be present in minor amounts.
Community 3.2
Community Phase 3.2Bluegrasses dominates the site; annual non-native species may be present but are not dominant. Trace amounts of sagebrush may be present. Sprouting shrubs dominate overstory after wildfire.
Pathway 3.1a
Community 3.1 to 3.2Fire, heavy fall grazing causing mechanical damage to shrubs, and/or brush treatments with minimal soil disturbance, will greatly reduce the overstory shrubs to trace amounts and allow for bluegrasses to dominate the site.
Pathway 3.2a
Community 3.2 to 3.1Absence of disturbance over time will allow for the sagebrush and other shrubs to recover. The regeneration of big sagebrush may take many years.
Transition T1A
State 1 to 2Trigger: Introduction of annual non-native species Slow variable: Over time the annual non-native plants will increase within the community decreasing organic matter inputs from deep-rooted perennial bunchgrasses resulting in reductions in soil water availability for perennial bunchgrasses. Threshold: Any amount of introduced non-native species causes an immediate decrease in the resilience of the site. Annual non-native species cannot be easily removed from the system and have the potential to significantly alter disturbance regimes from their historic range of variation.
Transition T2A
State 2 to 3Trigger: To Community Phase 3.1: Inappropriate grazing will decrease or eliminate deep rooted perennial bunchgrasses, increase Sandberg bluegrass and muttongrass and favor shrub growth and establishment. To Community Phase 3.2: Severe fire in community phase 2.3 will remove sagebrush overstory, decrease perennial bunchgrasses and enhance Sandberg bluegrass and muttongrass. Annual non-native species will increase. Slow variables: Long term decrease in deep-rooted perennial grass density resulting in decreased organic matter inputs and reduced soil water. Threshold: Loss of deep-rooted perennial bunchgrasses changes nutrient cycling, nutrient redistribution, and reduces soil organic matter.
Restoration pathway R3A
State 3 to 2Brush management with minimal soil disturbance/seeding of desired species.
Restoration pathway 3A
State 3 to 2Brush management and/or seeding of desired species.
Conservation practices
Brush Management Range Planting Additional community tables
Table 6. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Perennial Grasses 555–1200 mountain brome BRMA4 Bromus marginatus 225–450 – Idaho fescue FEID Festuca idahoensis 150–300 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 75–225 – Letterman's needlegrass ACLE9 Achnatherum lettermanii 25–50 – Dore's needlegrass ACNED Achnatherum nelsonii ssp. dorei 25–50 – western needlegrass ACOCO Achnatherum occidentale ssp. occidentale 25–50 – Cusick's bluegrass POCU3 Poa cusickii 15–37 – 2 Secondary Perennial Grasses 30–150 sedge CAREX Carex 8–45 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 8–45 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 8–45 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSPS Pseudoroegneria spicata ssp. spicata 8–45 – Forb3 Perennial Forbs 75–225 western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 8–45 – nettleleaf giant hyssop AGUR Agastache urticifolia 8–45 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 8–45 – helianthella HELIA Helianthella 8–45 – waterleaf HYDRO4 Hydrophyllum 8–45 – lupine LUPIN Lupinus 8–45 – ragwort SENEC Senecio 8–45 – clover TRIFO Trifolium 8–45 – spike fescue LEKI2 Leucopoa kingii 6–30 – Shrub/Vine4 Primary Shrubs 210–540 mountain big sagebrush ARTRV Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana 150–300 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 30–120 – Utah serviceberry AMUT Amelanchier utahensis 30–120 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 6–30 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 15–105 black chokecherry PRVIM Prunus virginiana var. melanocarpa 15–45 – currant RIBES Ribes 15–45 – elderberry SAMBU Sambucus 15–45 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–29 – helianthella HELIA Helianthella 9–28 – waterleaf HYDRO4 Hydrophyllum 9–28 – lupine LUPIN Lupinus 9–28 – ragwort SENEC Senecio 10–28 – clover TRIFO Trifolium 10–28 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 9–28 – nettleleaf giant hyssop AGUR Agastache urticifolia 9–28 – Tree6 Trees 15–45 mountain big sagebrush ARTRV Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana 150–300 – quaking aspen POTR5 Populus tremuloides 15–45 – Table 7. Community 1.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 8. Community 1.3 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 9. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 10. Community 2.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 11. Community 2.3 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 12. Community 2.4 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 13. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 14. Community 3.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Interpretations
Animal community
Livestock Interpretations:
This site has value for livestock grazing. Grazing management should be keyed to dominant grasses production. Mountain brome is one of the most important forage grasses in the quaking aspen zone. Mountain brome is ranked as excellent forage for both cattle and horses and good for domestic sheep. Domestic sheep will graze mountain brome only when it is fairly succulent. Idaho fescue provides important forage for many types of domestic livestock. The foliage cures well and is preferred by livestock in late fall and winter. Slender wheatgrass is grazed by all classes of livestock. Western needlegrass has a spreading and deeply penetrating root system, which makes it resistant to trampling. Letterman’s needlegrass begins growth early in the year and remains green throughout the relatively long growing season, thus, making it valuable forage for livestock. Columbia needlegrass provides valuable forage for all classes of livestock. Overall production is generally low in the upper sagebrush and mountain brush zones and at the limits of its range where Columbia needlegrass grows only in scattered patches. It is especially valuable to cattle and horses on summer ranges and to domestic sheep on lambing grounds. It is more often cropped closely by cattle and horses than by sheep. Columbia needlegrass is palatable to livestock throughout its range. As with most needlegrasses, it is most palatable early in the season before the foliage becomes coarse and wiry. Palatability to cows and horses is increased because large amounts of fine leafage remain green throughout the growing season. Palatability of Columbia needlegrass is rated fair to good for cattle and horses, becoming nearly unpalatable at maturity. Nevada bluegrass is a palatable species, but its production is closely tied to weather conditions. It produces little forage in drought years, making it a less dependable food source than other perennial bunchgrasses. Cusick's bluegrass makes up only a small proportion of the biomass of the sagebrush communities in which it lives, but it is often taken preferentially by cattle, especially early in the season. Mountain big sagebrush is eaten by domestic livestock but has long been considered to be of low palatability, and a competitor to more desirable species. Utah serviceberry provides good browse for domestic sheep and domestic goats. In the spring, Utah serviceberry provides fair forage for cattle and good to excellent browse for domestic sheep and goats. Utah serviceberry provides good forage late in winter and in early spring, because it leafs out and blooms earlier than associated species. Common snowberry is considered important browse for many types of livestock. It is especially important to domestic sheep and cattle. Common snowberry was found to be highly palatable to cattle. It plays a critical role in permitting cattle to meet their protein requirements during the latter half of the growing season. Domestic sheep also utilize common snowberry for browse and it is considered fair to good forage. It is has no forage value for horses.
Stocking rates vary over time depending upon season of use, climate variations, site, and previous and current management goals. A safe starting stocking rate is an estimated stocking rate that is fine tuned by the client by adaptive management through the year and from year to year.
Wildlife Interpretations:
Mountain brome seedheads and seeds provide food for many birds and small mammals. Pronghorn antelope will consume mountain brome primarily in the spring. The palatability of mountain brome is excellent for deer, particularly during the late spring and early summer. Idaho fescue provides important forage for several wildlife species. It is reported to be good forage for pronghorn, and deer in ranges of northern Nevada. Slender wheatgrass is grazed by sage grouse, deer, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep, mountain goat, pronghorn, various rodents, and all classes of livestock. The seeds are eaten by various seed predators. Slender wheatgrass provides hiding and thermal cover for songbirds, upland game birds, waterfowl, and small mammals. Columbia needlegrass provides valuable forage for many species of wildlife. It is also consumed by mule deer and other wildlife species throughout the growing season. Needlegrasses are a significant component in the diet of pocket gophers. Columbia needlegrass is palatable to many species of wildlife throughout its range. As with most needlegrasses, it is most palatable early in the season before the foliage becomes coarse and wiry. Palatability of Columbia needlegrass is rated fair for wildlife overall, becoming nearly unpalatable at maturity. Deer, elk, and mountain goat also use Cusick's bluegrass early in the season. The value of Cusick's bluegrass as cover for small animals has been rated as poor to fair. Mountain big sagebrush is highly preferred and nutritious winter forage for mule deer and elk. Utah serviceberry is a very important species for mule deer in the Great Basin. Porcupines and desert bighorn sheep also use Utah serviceberry. Utah serviceberry fruit is preferred by many birds. It can be an important winter food for birds since berries stay on the shrub throughout the winter. In Nevada, sage grouse eat the fruit of Utah serviceberry. Common snowberry is considered important browse for many types of wildlife. Bighorn sheep use common snowberry regularly during the summer. Forage value to elk is fair. Common snowberry is important as both cover and food for bird and small mammal populations. These include sharp-tailed, ruffed, and blue grouse, wild turkey and, several non-game species of bird including the kingbird, western flycatcher, and western bluebird. Among small mammals that rely on common snowberry are fox squirrels, desert cottontails, and pocket gopher. Sagebrush-grassland communities provide critical sage-grouse breeding and nesting habitats. Meadows surrounded by sagebrush may be used as feeding and strutting grounds. Sagebrush is a crucial component of their diet year-round, and sage-grouse select sagebrush almost exclusively for cover. Sage-grouse prefer mountain big sagebrush and Wyoming big sagebrush communities to basin big sagebrush communities.Hydrological functions
Runoff is very high. Permeability is moderately slow to moderate. Hydrologic soil group is B. Rills are none to rare. Rock fragments armor the soil surface. Water flow patterns are none to rare. Rock fragments armor the soil surface. Pedestals are rare. Occurrence is usually limited to areas of water flow patterns. Frost heaving of shallow rooted plants should not be considered a "normal" condition. Gullies are none. Perennial herbaceous plants (i.e., mountain brome & Idaho fescue) slow runoff and increase infiltration. Shrub canopy and associated litter break raindrop impact and provide opportunity for snow catch and accumulation on site.
Recreational uses
Aesthetic value is derived from the diverse floral and faunal composition and the colorful flowering of wild flowers and shrubs during the spring and early summer. This site offers rewarding opportunities to photographers and for nature study. This site is used for hiking and has potential for upland and big game hunting.
Other products
Native Americans used big sagebrush leaves and branches for medicinal teas, and the leaves as a fumigant. Bark was woven into mats, bags and clothing. Utah serviceberry fruits were used by Native Americans and early European explorers in North America for food and medicine. Common snowberry fruit was eaten fresh and also dried for winter use. Common snowberry was used on hair as soap, and the fruits and leaves mashed and applied to cuts or skin sores as a poultice and to soothe sore, runny eyes. Tea from the bark was used as a remedy for tuberculosis and sexually transmitted diseases. A brew made from the entire plant was used as a physic tonic. Arrowshafts and pipestems were made from the stems.
Other information
Mountain brome is an excellent native bunchgrass for seeding alone or in mixtures in disturbed areas, including depleted rangelands, burned areas, roadways, mined lands, and degraded riparian zones. Slender wheatgrass is widely used for revegetating disturbed lands. Slender wheatgrass is a short-lived perennial with good seedling vigor. It germinates and establishes quickly when seeded making it a good choice for quick cover on disturbed sites. It persists long enough for other, slower developing species to establish. It is especially valuable for use in saline soils. It has been used for rehabilitating mine spoils, livestock ranges, and wildlife habitat and watershed areas. Letterman’s needlegrass has been used successfully in revegetating mine spoils. This species also has good potential for erosion control. Utah serviceberry has been used to revegetate big game winter range and for surface stabilization. It grows slowly from seed and therefore transplanting may be more successful than seeding for revegetation projects.
Supporting information
Inventory data references
NASIS soil component data.
Type locality
Location 1: Humboldt County, NV Township/Range/Section T35N R38E S13 UTM zone N UTM northing 4528857 UTM easting 445137 Latitude 40° 54′ 32″ Longitude 117° 39′ 5″ General legal description SE¼ About 6 miles southeast of Winnemucca, Water Canyon area, Sonoma Mountains, Humboldt County, Nevada. This site also occurs in Eureka, Lander, and Pershing Counties, Nevada. Other references
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Bates, J. D., T. Svejcar, R. F. Miller, and R. A. Angell. 2006. The effects of precipitation timing on sagebrush steppe vegetation. Journal of Arid Environments 64:670-697.
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Blaisdell, J.P. and J.F. Pechanec. 1949. Effects of herbage removal at various dates on vigor of bluebunch wheatgrass and arrowleaf balsamroot. Ecology 30(3):298-305.
Britton, C.M., G.R. McPherson and F.A. Sneva. 1990. Effects of burning and clipping on five bunchgrasses in eastern Oregon. The Great Basin Naturalist 50(2):115-120.
Brunner, James R. 1972. Observations on Artemisia in Nevada. Journal of Range Management. 25: 205-298.
Bunting, S.C., B.M. Kilgore, and C.L. Bushey. 1987. Guidelines for prescribed burning sagebrush-grass rangelands in the northern Great Basin. Gen. Tech. Rep. INT-231. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station. 33 p.
Burkhardt, J.W. and E.W. Tisdale. 1969. Nature and successional status of western juniper vegetation in Idaho. Journal of Range Management 22(4):264-270.
Busso, C. A. and J. H. Richards. 1995. Drought and clipping effects on tiller demography andgrowth of two tussock grasses in Utah. Journal of Arid Environments 29:239-251.
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Chambers, J., B. Bradley, C. Brown, C. D’Antonio, M. Germino, J. Grace, S. Hardegree, R. Miller, and D. Pyke. 2013. Resilience to Stress and Disturbance, and Resistance to Bromus tectorum L. Invasion in Cold Desert Shrublands of Western North America. Ecosystems 17:1-16.
Chambers, J. C., B. A. Roundy, R. R. Blank, S. E. Meyer, and A. Whittaker. 2007. What makes great basin sagebrush ecosystems invasible by Bromus tectorum? Ecological Monographs 77:117-145.
Clark, D.L., T.W. Weaver, and D.G. Despain. 1994. Seedbanks under climax Rocky Mountain vegetation and the effects of fire on them. In: Despain, D.G. (ed.). Plants and their environments: proceedings of the 1st biennial scientific conference on the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem; 1991 September 16-17; Yellowstone National Park. Tech. Rep. NPS/NRYELL/NRTR-93/XX. Denver, CO: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Rocky Mountain Region, Yellowstone National Park: Pgs 315-316.
Comstock, J. P. and J. R. Ehleringer. 1992. Plant adaptation in the Great Basin and Colorado plateau. Western North American Naturalist 52:195-215.
Conrad, C.E. and C.E. Poulton. 1966. Effect of a wildfire on Idaho fescue and bluebunch wheatgrass. Journal of Range Management 19(3):138-141.
Dobrowolski, J. P., M. M. Caldwell, and J. H. Richards. 1990. Basin hydrology and plant root systems. In: C. B. Osmand, L. F. Pitelka, G. M. Hildy [eds]. Plant biology of the Basin and range. Ecological Studies. 80: 243-292
Eckert, R.E., Jr., and J.S. Spencer. 1986. Vegetation response on allotments grazed under rest-rotation management. Journal of Range Management 39(2):166-174.
Eckert, R.E., Jr., and J.S. Spencer. 1987. Growth and reproduction of grasses heavily grazed under rest-rotation management. Journal of Range Management 40(2):156-159.
Furniss, M.M. and W.F. Barr. 1975. Insects affecting important native shrubs of the northwestern United States. US Intermountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. USDA Forest Service General Technical Report INT INT-19.
Gaffney, W.S. 1941. The effects of winter elk browsing, south fork of the Flathead River, Montana. Journal of Wildlife Management 5(4):427-453.
Ganskopp, D. 1988. Defoliation of Thurber needlegrass: herbage and root responses. Journal of Range Management 41(6):472-476.
Ganskopp, D., L. Aguilera, and M. Vavra. 2007. Livestock forage conditioning among six northern Great Basin grasses. Rangeland Ecology and Management 60:71-78.
Houston, D.B. 1973. Wildfires in northern Yellowstone National Park. Ecology 54(5):1111-1117.
Hurd, R.M. 1961. Grassland vegetation in the Big Horn Mountains, Wyoming. Ecology 42(3):459-467.
Johnson, C.G., Jr., R.R. Clausnitzer, P.J. Mehringer, and C.D. Oliver. 1994. Biotic and abiotic processes of Eastside ecosystems: the effects of management on plant and community ecology and on stand and landscape vegetation dynamics. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-322. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 66 p.
Koniak, S. 1985. Succession in pinyon-juniper woodlands following wildfire in the Great Basin. The Great Basin Naturalist 45(3):556-566.
Krall, J.L., J.R. Stroh, C.S. Cooper, and S.R. Chapman. 1971. Effect of time and extent of harvesting basin wildrye. Journal of Range Management 24(6):414-418.
Kuntz, D.E. 1982. Plant response following spring burning in an Artemisia tridentata subsp. vaseyana/Festuca idahoensis habitat type. Moscow, ID: University of Idaho. 73 p. Thesis.
Laycock, W.A. 1967. How heavy grazing and protection affect sagebrush-grass ranges. Journal of Range Management 20:206-213.
Leege, T. A. and W. O. Hickey. 1971. Sprouting of northern Idaho shrubs after prescribed burning. The Journal of Wildlife Management:508-515.
McArthur, E. Durant; Stevens, Richard 2004. Chapter 21. Composite shrubs. In: Monsen, Stephen B.; Stevens, Richard; Shaw, Nancy L., comps. Restoring western ranges and wildlands, vol. 2. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-136-vol-2. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 493-538
Miller, R.F., T.J. Svejcar, and J.A. Rose. 2000. Impacts of western juniper on plant community composition and structure. Journal of Range Management 53(6):574-585.
Merrill, E. H., H. Mayland, and J. Peek. 1982. Shrub responses after fire in an idaho ponderosa pine community. The Journal of Wildlife Management 46:496-502.
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Neuenschwander, L.F. 1980. Broadcast burning of sagebrush in the winter. Journal of Range Management (33)3:233-236.
Noste, N.V. and C.L. Bushey. 1987. Fire response of shrubs of dry forest habitat types in Montana and Idaho. Gen. Tech. Rep. INT-239. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station. 22 p.
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Richards, J. H. and M. M. Caldwell. 1987. Hydraulic lift: Substantial nocturnal water transport between soil layers by Artemisia tridentata roots. Oecologia 73:486-489.
Robberecht, R. and G.E. Defosse. 1995. The relative sensitivity of two bunchgrass species to fire. International Journal of Wildland Fire 5(3):127-134.
Smith, M.A. and F. Busby. 1981. Prescribed burning: effective control of sagebrush in Wyoming. RJ-165. Laramie, WY: University of Wyoming, Agricultural Experiment Station. 12 p.
Uresk, D. W., J. F. Cline, and W. H. Rickard. 1976. Impact of wildfire on three perennial grasses in south-central Washington. Journal of Range Management 29:309-310.
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Wright, H. A. 1971. Why Squirreltail Is More Tolerant to Burning than Needle-and-Thread. Journal of Range Management 24:277-284.
Wright, H. A. 1985. Effects of fire on grasses and forbs in sagebrush-grass communities. In: K.E. Sanders [ed.] Rangeland Fire Effects; A Symposium: proceedings of a symposium sponsored by Bureau of Land Management and Universtory of Idaho at Boise Idaho. Boise, ID, USDI-BLM. P. 12-21
Wright, H.A., L.F. Neuenschwander, and C.M. Britton. 1979. The role and use of fire in sagebrush-grass and pinyon-juniper plant communities: A state-of-the-art review. Gen. Tech. Rep. INT-58. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 48 p.
Young, R.P. 1983. Fire as a vegetation management tool in rangelands of the Intermountain Region. In: Monsen, S.B. and N. Shaw (compilers). Managing Intermountain rangelands--improvement of range and wildlife habitats: Proceedings; 1981 September 15-17; Twin Falls, ID; 1982 June 22-24; Elko, NV. Gen. Tech. Rep. INT-157. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Forest and Range Experiment Station: Pgs 18-31.
Zschaechner, G.A. 1985. Studying rangeland fire effects: a case study in Nevada. In: Sanders, K. and J. Durham (eds). Rangeland fire effects. Proceedings of the symposium. 1984 November 27-29; Boise, ID. Boise, ID. U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Idaho State Office. Pgs 66-84.Contributors
CP/GKB
T Stringham
P NovakEcheniqueApproval
Kendra Moseley, 3/06/2025
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) Patti Novak-Echenique Contact for lead author State Rangeland Management Specialist Date 03/18/2010 Approved by Approval date Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on Annual Production Indicators
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Number and extent of rills:
Rills are none to rare. A few may occur on steeper slopes after rapid snowmelt or summer convection storms. These will be short (<1m) and not connected. -
Presence of water flow patterns:
Water flow patterns are none to rare. A few may occur on steeper slopes after snowmelt or summer convection storms. These will be short (<1m), meandering and not connected. -
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Pedestals are none to rare. Occurrence is usually limited to areas of water flow patterns. Frost heaving of shallow rooted plants should not be considered a "normal" condition. -
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground is 10-20%. -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
None -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None -
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Fine litter (foliage from grasses and annual & perennial forbs) expected to move distance of slope length during intense summer convection storms or rapid snowmelt events. Persistent litter (large woody material) will remain in place except during large rainfall events. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Soil stability values should be 3 to 4 in the interspaces and 5 to 6 under canopy. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Surface structure is platy or granular. Soil surface colors are dark grayish browns and soils are typified by a thick mollic epipedon. Organic matter of the surface 2 to 3 inches is typically 1 to 3 percent dropping off quickly below. Organic matter content can be more or less depending on micro-topography. -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Perennial herbaceous plants (i.e., mountain brome & Idaho fescue) slow runoff and increase infiltration. Shrub canopy and associated litter break raindrop impact and provide opportunity for snow catch and accumulation on site. -
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
Compacted layers are none. Subangular blocky or massive sub-surface horizons or subsoil argillic horizons are not to be interpreted as compacted layers. -
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:
Reference Plant Community: Deep-rooted, cool season, perennial bunchgrassesSub-dominant:
Tall shrubs (i.e., mountain big sagebrush) > shallow-rooted, cool season, perennial bunchgrasses > associated shrubs > deep-rooted, cool season, perennial forbs = fibrous, shallow-rooted, cool season, perennial and annual forbsOther:
Microbiotic crusts, mossesAdditional:
-
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Dead branches within individual shrubs common and standing dead shrub canopy material may be as much as 25% of total woody canopy; some of the mature bunchgrasses (<20%) have dead centers. -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
Within plant interspaces (± 20%) and depth of litter is <½ inch. -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
For normal or average growing season (end of May) ± 1500 lbs/ac; Spring moisture significantly affects total production. Favorable years ± 2200 lbs/ac; unfavorable years ± 1200 lbs/ac. -
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:
Potential invaders include Russian thistle, annual mustards, and cheatgrass. -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All functional groups should reproduce in average (or normal) and above average growing season years. Reduced growth and reproduction occur during extreme or extended drought periods.
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