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Ecological site R028AB243UT
Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South
Last updated: 6/12/2025
Accessed: 06/29/2026
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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): 028A–Ancient Lake Bonneville
MLRA 28A occurs in Utah (82 percent), Nevada (16 percent), and Idaho (2 percent). It encompasses approximately 36,775 square miles (95,246 square kilometers). A large area west and southwest of Great Salt Lake is a salty playa. This area is the farthest eastern extent of the Great Basin Section of the Basin and Range Province of the Intermontane Plateaus. It is an area of nearly level basins between widely separated mountain ranges trending north to south. The basins are bordered by long, gently sloping alluvial fans. The mountains are uplifted fault blocks with steep side slopes. Most of the valleys are closed basins containing sinks or playa lakes. Elevation ranges from 3,950 to 6,560 feet (1,204 to 2,000 meters) in the basins and from 6,560 to 11,150 feet (1,996 to 3,398 meters) in the mountains. Much of the MLRA has alluvial valley fill and playa lakebed deposits at the surface from pluvial Lake Bonneville, which dominated this MLRA 13,000 years ago. A level line of remnant lake terraces on some mountain slopes indicates the former extent of this glacial lake. The Great Salt Lake is what remains of the pluvial lake.
Mountains in the interior of this MLRA consist of tilted blocks of marine sediments from Cambrian to Mississippian age with scattered outcrops of Tertiary continental sediments and volcanic rocks. The average annual precipitation is 5 to 12 inches (13 to 30 cm) in the valleys and ranges up to 49 inches (124 cm) in the mountains. Most of the rainfall in the southern LRU occurs as high-intensity, convective thunderstorms during the growing season (April through September). The driest period is from midsummer to early autumn in the northern LRU. Precipitation in winter typically occurs as snow. The average annual temperature is 39 to 53 °F (4 to 12 °C). The freeze-free period averages 165 days and ranges from 110 to 215 days, decreasing in length with increasing elevation. The dominant soil orders in this MLRA are Aridisols, Entisols, and Mollisols. Soils are dominantly in the mesic or frigid soil temperature regime, aridic or xeric soil moisture regime, and mixed mineralogy. The soils are generally well drained, loamy or loamy-skeletal, and very deep.LRU notes
The Basin and Range South LRU has mountain ranges that are about 40 percent sedimentary/metasedimentary (limestone/quartzite dominant) and about 40 percent Tertiary volcanics. The basin floors are generally higher in the southern LRU than in the north LRU between 4,900 and 6,100 feet (1,493 to 1,859 meters) in elevation. The Basin and Range South LRU also exhibits patterns of summers with a greater relative amount of precipitation in July and August coming from convective storms (ustic trending pattern). Pinyon and juniper ecological sites have a great percentage of pinyon pine (Pinus edulis or monophylla) than Utah juniper (Juniperus osteosperma), with pinyon pine up to 50 percent of the tree composition in the semidesert zones and more than 50 percent in upland zones. Warm season grasses, such as James’ galleta (Pleuraphis jamesii) or blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), are present within the plant community, and can make up a large portion of the subdominant grass composition. Bristlecone pine (Pinus longaeva) and cliffrose (Purshia sp.) are also present and dominant on some ecological sites in the southern LRU, while they are sparse or absent in the northern LRU.
Ecological site concept
The Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South site occurs on shallow soils over fractured bedrock with some bedrock exposure on the soil surface with elevation ranging between 5,200 and 6,000 feet (1,584 to 1,828 meters). The bedrock is fractured enough to allow Wyoming big sagebrush to establish rather than black sagebrush which is typically found on shallow soils. This site occurs on mountain slopes hills, and fan remnants at slopes typically between 5 and 40 percent. The Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South site receives additional moisture from summer thunderstorms (July through September) which increases warm season species in the plant community.
The Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South site occurs across the proposed LRU boundary between Basin and Range North and Basin and Range South. There are no soils correlated to this site. The soils correlated to the original site, R028AY243UT, need to be evaluated in the field to determine the correct site correlation. The following soil surveys will be evaluated for recorrelation: Loa-Marysvale Area and Iron-Washington Area.Similar sites
R028AY243UT Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming Big Sagebrush) North
This site occurs in the northern Basin and Range LRU and will not have as much influence from summer convective storms and will have little to no warm season grasses in the community.
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub (1) Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis
Herbaceous (1) Pseudoroegneria spicata
Physiographic features
The Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South site is located on hills, fan remnants, and mountain slopes. Slopes range from 5 to 40 percent. Sites are located between 5,200 to 6,000 feet (1,584 to 1,828 meters) in elevation.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Hill
(2) Mountain slope
(3) Fan remnant
Elevation 5200 – 6000 ft Slope 5 – 40 % Climatic features
The climate is dry subhumid and semiarid. It is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. The average annual precipitation ranges from 12 to 15 inches. The most reliable sources of moisture for plant growth are the snow that accumulates over the winter, and spring rains. Summer thunderstorms are intermittent and sporadic in nature, however they occur often enough to increase warm season species in the plant community.
Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (characteristic range) 100 days Freeze-free period (characteristic range) 110 days Precipitation total (characteristic range) 10-10 in Frost-free period (actual range) 100 days Freeze-free period (actual range) 110 days Precipitation total (actual range) 10-20 in Frost-free period (average) 100 days Freeze-free period (average) 110 days Precipitation total (average) 10 in Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 1. Monthly precipitation range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 2. Monthly minimum temperature range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 3. Monthly maximum temperature range
BarLineFigure 4. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
Figure 5. Annual precipitation pattern
Figure 6 Annual average temperature pattern
Climate stations used
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(1) ENTERPRISE [USC00422558], Central, UT
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(2) MODENA [USW00023177], Modena, UT
">Influencing water features
There are no influencing water features on the Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South ecological site.
Soil features
The soils formed in colluvium derived from igneous rock. They are mostly 10 to 20 inches deep over igneous bedrock or fractured basalt. The surface horizon is 3 to 4 inches thick and is typically a gravelly loam. These soils are non-calcareous and moderately alkaline. They are well-drained with moderately slow permeability. Available water capacity for the upper 40 inches of soil is 2 inches. The soil temperature regime is mesic and the soil moisture regime is aridic.
Table 4. Representative soil features
Parent material (1) Colluvium – igneous rock
(2) Slope alluvium – andesite
(3) Slope alluvium – welded tuff
(4) Slope alluvium – rhyolite
(5) Colluvium – andesite
(6) Colluvium – welded tuff
(7) Colluvium – rhyolite
Surface texture (1) Gravelly loam
Drainage class Well drained Permeability class Moderately slow Depth to restrictive layer 10 – 20 in Soil depth 10 – 20 in Surface fragment cover <=3" 27 – 35 % Surface fragment cover >3" 0 – 2 % Available water capacity
(Depth not specified)1.9 – 2.3 in Calcium carbonate equivalent
(Depth not specified)Not specified Electrical conductivity
(Depth not specified)0 – 2 mmhos/cm Sodium adsorption ratio
(Depth not specified)Not specified Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(Depth not specified)7.4 – 7.8 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(Depth not specified)10 – 23 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(Depth not specified)5 – 13 % Ecological dynamics
The Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South site is found in the southern end of the Great Salt Lake Area of the Basin and Range Ecological Provence. It developed under the natural ecological conditions found there, including the normal influences of native wildlife herbivory, fire and climate.
Plant species composition is typically dominated by Wyoming big sagebrush. A wide mixture of other shrubs including Nevada ephedra and shadscale are also commonly found. Bluebunch wheatgrass and Indian ricegrass are the most prominent herbaceous species. James' galleta grass, needle and thread, and western wheatgrass are other common perennial grasses.
The Semidesert Shallow Loam (Wyoming big sagebrush) South ecological site has been grazed by domestic livestock since they were first introduced into the area in the mid 1800's. This introduction of livestock, mainly cattle and sheep, including the use of fencing to control those stock, and the development of reliable water sources, has in places altered the historic disturbance regimes associated with this ecological site. Improper livestock grazing that includes season long grazing and/or heavy stocking rates over long periods of time, will likely cause this site to depart from the reference plant community.
Periodic fire naturally occurred on this site with a burn period estimated at 80 to 90 years. Disturbances such as improper grazing, poorly designed brush treatments and OHV misuse can put this site at risk of entering a shorter burn cycle by allowing invasive annuals to enter the system. These annuals can produce flashy fuel loads which easily burn. Cheatgrass, Halogeton, various mustard species, alyssum, and Russian thistle are most likely to invade this site. These and other invasive weed species are capable of establishing themselves on this site, however, even in the absence of disturbance, but rarely increase to a point where they dominate the community.
As ecological condition deteriorates, palatable perennial grasses and winterfat typically decrease while Wyoming big sagebrush, green rabbitbrush, less palatable grasses, forbs, and warm season grasses increase.
Management practices that maintain or improve rangeland vegetation include prescribed grazing and the proper location of water and fencing developments. Severe drought may adversely affect the production of the herbaceous perennial vegetation.
Suitability for rangeland seeding is only fair on this site because of its shallow soils. This practice is being used, however, over extensive areas to improve forage quality and to control erosion. Treated pastures, including sagebrush spraying, brush beating, and heavy disking are commonly found throughout this site. These treated areas are typically seeded to adapted forage plants including crested wheatgrass and intermediate wheatgrass.
Where vegetative communities have been impacted by changes in management or natural influences that moved them from one ecological state to another, a return to previous states is often not possible. The amount of energy needed to affect desired vegetative shifts on this site depends on both its present biotic and abiotic features and the desired results.
The following State and Transition diagram shows some of the most commonly occurring plant communities found on this ecological site. These plant communities may not represent every possibility, but they are the most prevalent and repeatable. As more data are collected, some of these plant communities may be revised or removed and new ones may be added. This model was developed using range data collected over the last 40 years in MLRA D28A in western Utah. Both ocular and measured data was collected and utilized.State and transition model
More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective textEcosystem states
SWAPAEHSWAPAEHSWAPAEHState 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference StateThe Reference State describes the various biotic communities that are expected to be found on this ecological site under natural conditions. The Reference State has a well developed shrub layer with Wyoming big sagebrush dominating. Nevada ephedra, winterfat, and shadscale are other common shrub species. Bluebunch wheatgrass and Indian ricegrass are the most dominant herbaceous species with needle and thread, western wheatgrass, and James’ galleta commonly occurring. The percentage of warm season species, including James' galleta and blue grama, found in the communities in this ecological site are greater than the similar site in the Basin and Range North LRU (site R028AY243UT). Other native grasses, forbs, and shrubs will often produce a significant portion of vegetative composition in the plant community.
The Reference State is self-sustaining and resistant to change due to a good natural resilience to its natural disturbances. The primary natural disturbance mechanisms are livestock grazing and wildlife population densities which can affect the shrub layer composition, weather fluctuations, and fire period.
Definitions:
Reference State: Natural plant communities as influenced by shrub canopy density, long term weather fluctuations, and periodic fire.
Indicators: These communities are dominated by Wyoming big sagebrush and bluebunch wheatgrass. The density of the shrub canopy determines the amount and composition of the other native species present in the community.
Feedbacks: Natural fluctuations in weather patterns that allow for a self-sustaining shrub and native grass community. Prolonged drought, an increase in fire frequency, or other disturbances may allow for the establishment of invasive species.
At-risk Community Phase: All communities are at risk when native plants are stressed and conditions are created that may allow invasive plants to establish.
Trigger: The establishment of invasive plant species.Community 1.1
Wyoming Big Sagebrush/Bluebunch WheatgrassThis reference community phase is dominated by Wyoming big sagebrush. Other significant shrubs include Nevada ephedra, winterfat, and shadscale. Bluebunch wheatgrass and Indian ricegrass dominate the herbaceous layer. Other commonly occurring grasses include needle and thread and James' galleta. This site is mature and may be nearing the end of its natural fire cycle. The sites vegetative composition by air-dry weight is approximately 45 percent perennial grasses, 10 percent forbs, and 45 percent shrubs.
Figure 7. 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 130 300 420 Shrub/Vine 130 290 400 Forb 40 60 80 Total 300 650 900 Table 6. Ground cover
Tree foliar cover 0% Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover 10-20% Grass/grasslike foliar cover 20-40% Forb foliar cover 0-10% Non-vascular plants 0% Biological crusts 0% Litter 0% Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" 0% Surface fragments >3" 0% Bedrock 0% Water 0% Bare ground 0% Table 7. Canopy structure (% cover)
Height Above Ground (ft) Tree Shrub/Vine Grass/
GrasslikeForb <0.5 – – – – >0.5 <= 1 – – – – >1 <= 2 – – 35-45% 0-10% >2 <= 4.5 – 15-25% – – >4.5 <= 13 – – – – >13 <= 40 – – – – >40 <= 80 – – – – >80 <= 120 – – – – >120 – – – – Figure 8. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). UT2141 , PNC. Excellent Condition.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 5 15 40 30 5 5 0 0 0 0 Community 1.2
Bluebunch Wheatgrass, Herebaceous GrassThis reference community is dominated by bluebunch wheatgrass and Indian ricegrass. Significant shrubs are present and typically include Wyoming big sagebrush, Nevada ephedra, winterfat, and green rabbitbrush. Other commonly occurring grasses include western wheatgrass, needle and thread, and James’ galleta. This site is early in its natural fire cycle and a slow transition from herbaceous species to woody species is occurring. The sites vegetative composition by air-dry weight is approximately 65 percent perennial grasses, 15 percent forbs, and 20 percent shrubs. The following tables provide an example of the typical vegetative floristics of a community phase 1.2 plant community.
Figure 9. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 8. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 130 300 420 Shrub/Vine 130 290 400 Forb 40 60 80 Total 300 650 900 Table 9. Ground cover
Tree foliar cover 0% Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover 10-20% Grass/grasslike foliar cover 20-40% Forb foliar cover 0-10% Non-vascular plants 0% Biological crusts 0% Litter 0% Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" 0% Surface fragments >3" 0% Bedrock 0% Water 0% Bare ground 0% Table 10. Canopy structure (% cover)
Height Above Ground (ft) Tree Shrub/Vine Grass/
GrasslikeForb <0.5 – – – – >0.5 <= 1 – – – – >1 <= 2 – – 35-45% 0-10% >2 <= 4.5 – 15-25% – – >4.5 <= 13 – – – – >13 <= 40 – – – – >40 <= 80 – – – – >80 <= 120 – – – – >120 – – – – Figure 10. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). UT2141 , PNC. Excellent Condition.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 5 15 40 30 5 5 0 0 0 0 Pathway 1.1a
Community 1.1 to 1.2This community pathway occurs when weather patterns are within normal ranges and some level of fire reduces the Wyoming big sagebrush canopy, significantly opening the site. This more open canopy allows understory vegetation to increase in production, and under some circumstances, flourish on the site. Proper livestock grazing during these periods can facilitate this process.
Pathway 1.2a
Community 1.2 to 1.1This community pathway occurs when long-term drought and/or extended periods without fire allows canopies, mainly Wyoming big sagebrush to significantly increase. This closing canopy event causes understory vegetation to be reduced and eventually nearly eliminated from the site. Drought alone can also reduce native perennial grass production and eventually eliminate some species from the system. Improper livestock grazing during these periods can facilitate this process.
State 2
Current Potential StateThe Current Potential State is similar to the Reference State except that non-native species are now present. This state describes the plant communities that may or have become established on this ecological site under various successional sequences and disturbance conditions. The Current Potential State typically has a well developed shrub layer with Wyoming big sagebrush often dominating. Nevada ephedra and shadscale are other common shrub species. Bluebunch wheatgrass and Indian ricegrass are the dominant herbaceous species. Needle and thread, James' galleta, other perennial grasses, and forbs are also commonly found in abundance. These other native grasses, forbs, and shrubs may produce significant composition in the plant community. Cheatgrass, Halogeton, alyssum, various mustard species, and other non-native species are present on the site and under certain circumstances, may visually dominate the sites aspect.
The primary disturbance mechanisms are the shrub layer density; the amount of invasive species present; weather fluctuations; and fire. The Current Potential State is still self-sustaining but may be losing its resistance to change due to the impact of disturbances with less resilience following those disturbances.
Definitions:
Current Potential State: Plant communities influenced by shrub canopy density, long term weather fluctuations, and periodic fire. Invasive species are present in various amounts.
Indicators: A community dominated by Wyoming big sagebrush and bluebunch wheatgrass. The density of the shrub canopy determines the amount and composition of the other native and introduced grasses and forbs that may be present.
Feedbacks: Natural fluctuations in weather patterns that allow for a self sustaining shrub and native grass community. Prolonged drought, more frequent fires, and/or other disturbances that may allow for the increase of invasive species.
At-risk Community Phase: All communities are at risk when native plants are stressed and nutrients become available for invasive plants to increase.
Trigger: A reduction of perennial grass and forb species combined with an increase of invasive plant species.Community 2.1
Wyoming Big Sagebrush/Bluebunch Wheatgrass/Invasive WeedCommunity Phase 2.1 is dominated by Wyoming big sagebrush. Other significant shrubs include Nevada ephedra, winterfat and shadscale. Bluebunch wheatgrass and Indian ricegrass co-dominate the herbaceous layer. Other commonly occurring grasses include needle and thread and James' galleta. Non-native species are now present in the all plant communities and are expected to remain a permanent part of these communities. This site is mature and may be nearing the end of its natural fire cycle. The sites vegetative composition by air-dry weight is approximately 45 percent perennial grasses, 10 percent forbs, and 45 percent shrubs.
Figure 11. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 11. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 130 300 420 Shrub/Vine 130 290 400 Forb 40 60 80 Total 300 650 900 Table 12. Ground cover
Tree foliar cover 0% Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover 10-20% Grass/grasslike foliar cover 20-40% Forb foliar cover 0-10% Non-vascular plants 0% Biological crusts 0% Litter 0% Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" 0% Surface fragments >3" 0% Bedrock 0% Water 0% Bare ground 0% Table 13. Canopy structure (% cover)
Height Above Ground (ft) Tree Shrub/Vine Grass/
GrasslikeForb <0.5 – – – – >0.5 <= 1 – – – – >1 <= 2 – – 35-45% 0-10% >2 <= 4.5 – 15-25% – – >4.5 <= 13 – – – – >13 <= 40 – – – – >40 <= 80 – – – – >80 <= 120 – – – – >120 – – – – Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). UT2141 , PNC. Excellent Condition.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 5 15 40 30 5 5 0 0 0 0 Community 2.2
Wyoming Big Sagebrush/Invasive WeedCommunity Phase 2.2 is dominated by shrubs and invasive annual weeds. Wyoming big sagebrush, Nevada ephedra, horsebrush species, and shadscale often dominate the shrub layer. Non-native species including cheatgrass, bulbous bluegrass, Russian thistle, and various annual mustard species comprise most of the herbaceous understory. Bluebunch wheatgrass, Indian ricegrass and other native perennial grasses are much reduced or missing. This site may be nearing the end of its natural fire cycle. The sites vegetative composition by air-dry weight is approximately 50 percent perennial grasses, 10 percent forbs, and 50 percent shrubs.
Figure 13. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 14. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 130 300 420 Shrub/Vine 130 290 400 Forb 40 60 80 Total 300 650 900 Table 15. Ground cover
Tree foliar cover 0% Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover 10-20% Grass/grasslike foliar cover 20-40% Forb foliar cover 0-10% Non-vascular plants 0% Biological crusts 0% Litter 0% Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" 0% Surface fragments >3" 0% Bedrock 0% Water 0% Bare ground 0% Table 16. Canopy structure (% cover)
Height Above Ground (ft) Tree Shrub/Vine Grass/
GrasslikeForb <0.5 – – – – >0.5 <= 1 – – – – >1 <= 2 – – 35-45% 0-10% >2 <= 4.5 – 15-25% – – >4.5 <= 13 – – – – >13 <= 40 – – – – >40 <= 80 – – – – >80 <= 120 – – – – >120 – – – – Figure 14. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). UT2141 , PNC. Excellent Condition.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 5 15 40 30 5 5 0 0 0 0 Community 2.3
Burned/Sprayed and SeededCommunity Phase 2.3 is found following successful burning or chemical spraying to remove Wyoming big sagebrush. Other shrubs including Nevada ephedra, winterfat, and shadscale may also be impacted. Bluebunch wheatgrass, Indian ricegrass, needle and thread, and James' galleta, where present, may be increasing. Introduced species including crested and intermediate wheatgrass may dominate the site where seeded. Non-native species are still present and are expected to remain a permanent part of these communities. This site can be very productive for forage production where well managed. The sites vegetative composition by air-dry weight is approximately 65 percent perennial grasses, 10 percent forbs, and 25 percent shrubs.
Figure 15. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 17. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 130 300 420 Shrub/Vine 130 290 400 Forb 40 60 80 Total 300 650 900 Table 18. Ground cover
Tree foliar cover 0% Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover 10-20% Grass/grasslike foliar cover 20-40% Forb foliar cover 0-10% Non-vascular plants 0% Biological crusts 0% Litter 0% Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" 0% Surface fragments >3" 0% Bedrock 0% Water 0% Bare ground 0% Table 19. Canopy structure (% cover)
Height Above Ground (ft) Tree Shrub/Vine Grass/
GrasslikeForb <0.5 – – – – >0.5 <= 1 – – – – >1 <= 2 – – 35-45% 0-10% >2 <= 4.5 – 15-25% – – >4.5 <= 13 – – – – >13 <= 40 – – – – >40 <= 80 – – – – >80 <= 120 – – – – >120 – – – – Figure 16. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). UT2141 , PNC. Excellent Condition.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 5 15 40 30 5 5 0 0 0 0 Pathway 2.1a
Community 2.1 to 2.2This community pathway occurs when long-term drought and/or extended periods without fire allows canopies, mainly Wyoming big sagebrush to significantly increase. This closing canopy event causes understory vegetation to be reduced and eventually, nearly eliminated from the site. Drought alone can also reduce native perennial grass production and eventually eliminate some species from the system. Improper livestock grazing during these periods can facilitate this process.
Pathway 2.2a
Community 2.2 to 2.1This community pathway occurs when weather patterns are within normal or above normal ranges and some level of fire reduces the Wyoming big sagebrush canopy, significantly opening the site. This more open canopy allows understory vegetation to increase in production, and under some circumstances, flourish on the site. Proper livestock grazing during these periods can facilitate this process.
Pathway 2.2b
Community 2.2 to 2.3This community pathway occurs when the site is either burned or treated with herbicide to reduce or remove the Wyoming big sagebrush canopy, significantly opening the site. This more open canopy allows understory native vegetation to increase in production, and under some circumstances, flourish on the site. Where there are not sufficient native species available, site is often seeded to introduced forage species. Proper livestock grazing during these periods can facilitate this process.
Pathway 2.3a
Community 2.3 to 2.2This community pathway occurs when long-term drought and/or extended periods without fire allows canopies, mainly Wyoming big sagebrush to significantly increase. This closing canopy event causes understory vegetation to be reduced and eventually nearly eliminated from the site. Drought alone can also reduce native perennial grass production and eventually eliminate some species from the system. Improper livestock grazing during these periods can facilitate this process.
State 3
Seeded StateThe Seeded State describes plant community phases that have been mechanically treated to remove Wyoming big sagebrush. Common treatment methods include brush beating, heavy disking, and occasionally, chaining. These treated pastures are then typically seeded to introduced forage species, such as intermediate or crested wheatgrass, or managed to allow native perennial grasses to recover. Invasive weedy species, including cheatgrass, Halogeton, alyssum, various mustard species, and other non-native species, are present and, in some cases, may visually dominate the sites herbaceous layer. On pastures where seedings fail or native species do not respond to management, the site is often covered with annuals which can prevent site recovery and may periodically burn and re-burn.
The primary disturbance mechanisms include; the amount of of invasive herbaceous species present; weather fluctuations, and fire patterns. The Seeded State may have lost its resistance to change due to the impact of these disturbances and has less resilience following those disturbances.
Definitions:
Seeded State: Plant communities that have been manipulated to remove Wyoming big sagebrush; long term weather fluctuations; and periodic fire.
Indicators: The composition of the herbaceous community determines any additional treatment needs including range seeding and/or proper grazing management to allow native and introduced grasses and forbs to recover.
Feedbacks: Natural fluctuations in weather patterns that impact herbaceous communities. Prolonged drought, less frequent fire, and/or other disturbances that allow for the increase of all invasive species.
At-risk Community Phase: All communities are at risk when native plants are stressed and nutrients become available for invasive plants to increase.
Trigger: A reduction of perennial grass and forb species combined with an increase of invasive plant species.Community 3.1
Brush Beating/Disked - Perennial GrassThis mechanically altered phase is found following successful brush beating, heavy disking, or chaining to remove Wyoming big sagebrush. Other shrubs, including Nevada ephedra, winterfat, and shadscale may also be removed from the site. Where sufficient stands of bluebunch wheatgrass, Indian ricegrass, needle and thread, and James' galleta are present, they may be recovering under good grazing management practices. In most cases, however, introduced species including crested and intermediate wheatgrass are seeded and will often provide most of the sites forage. Non-native species are still present and are expected to remain a permanent part of these communities. This site can be every productive for forage production where well managed. The sites vegetative composition by air-dry weight is approximately 70 percent perennial grasses, 10 percent forbs, and 20 percent shrubs.
Figure 17. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 20. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 130 300 420 Shrub/Vine 130 290 400 Forb 40 60 80 Total 300 650 900 Table 21. Ground cover
Tree foliar cover 0% Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover 10-20% Grass/grasslike foliar cover 20-40% Forb foliar cover 0-10% Non-vascular plants 0% Biological crusts 0% Litter 0% Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" 0% Surface fragments >3" 0% Bedrock 0% Water 0% Bare ground 0% Table 22. Canopy structure (% cover)
Height Above Ground (ft) Tree Shrub/Vine Grass/
GrasslikeForb <0.5 – – – – >0.5 <= 1 – – – – >1 <= 2 – – 35-45% 0-10% >2 <= 4.5 – 15-25% – – >4.5 <= 13 – – – – >13 <= 40 – – – – >40 <= 80 – – – – >80 <= 120 – – – – >120 – – – – Figure 18. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). UT2141 , PNC. Excellent Condition.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 5 15 40 30 5 5 0 0 0 0 Community 3.2
Brush Beating/Disked - Invasive WeedThis community phase is found following successful brush beating, heavy disking, or chaining to remove Wyoming big sagebrush. Other shrubs, including Nevada ephedra, winterfat, and shadscale may also be removed from the site. Native herbaceous species such as bluebunch wheatgrass, Indian ricegrass, needle and thread, and James' galleta are either much reduced or missing. Site is either not seeded, or the seeding is a failure. Non-native species are present and produce most of the sites herbage. Annuals such as cheatgrass, Russian thistle, and various mustards readily burn and re-burn every few years. This short burn cycle may lock the site into a potentially permanent annual weed community phase. This site has little value for forage production. The sites vegetative composition by air-dry weight is approximately 60 percent annual grasses, 10 percent perennial grasses, 20 percent annual forbs, and 10 percent shrubs.
Figure 19. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 23. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 130 300 420 Shrub/Vine 130 290 400 Forb 40 60 80 Total 300 650 900 Table 24. Ground cover
Tree foliar cover 0% Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover 10-20% Grass/grasslike foliar cover 20-40% Forb foliar cover 0-10% Non-vascular plants 0% Biological crusts 0% Litter 0% Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3" 0% Surface fragments >3" 0% Bedrock 0% Water 0% Bare ground 0% Table 25. Canopy structure (% cover)
Height Above Ground (ft) Tree Shrub/Vine Grass/
GrasslikeForb <0.5 – – – – >0.5 <= 1 – – – – >1 <= 2 – – 35-45% 0-10% >2 <= 4.5 – 15-25% – – >4.5 <= 13 – – – – >13 <= 40 – – – – >40 <= 80 – – – – >80 <= 120 – – – – >120 – – – – Figure 20. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). UT2141 , PNC. Excellent Condition.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 5 15 40 30 5 5 0 0 0 0 Pathway 3.1a
Community 3.1 to 3.2This community pathway occurs when long-term drought and/or improper livestock grazing reduces native perennial grass production or introduced forage species, and eventually eliminates them from the site.
Pathway 3.2a
Community 3.2 to 3.1This community pathway occurs when normal or above normal weather pattern return to the site. Range seeding may be required to re-introduce perennial grasses. Good livestock grazing management facilitates this process.
Transition T1A
State 1 to 2This transitional pathway occurs when any combination of improper livestock grazing, prolonged drought or other disturbance causes the perennial herbaceous community to become significantly reduced allowing non-native species such as cheatgrass, Halogeton, alyssum, Russian thistle, and other invasive weeds to become established. Broom snakeweed may also increase during this time. Once invasive species occupy the site, a threshold has been crossed. Cheatgrass, however, has been known to become established in healthy communities.
Transition T2A
State 2 to 3This transitional pathway occurs when the site is brush beat, disked or chained to remove Wyoming big sagebrush and other unwanted shrubs. The perennial herbaceous community responds positively to this treatment. Where insufficient desirable forage species are available, introduced species are seeded onto the site. Non-native species such as cheatgrass, halogeton, alyssum, Russian thistle and other invasive weeds are also present. Broom snakeweed may also increase during this time.
Additional community tables
Table 26. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Grasses 225–325 bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 150–180 – Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 120–140 – 4 Secondary Grasses 75–125 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 20–40 – purple threeawn ARPU9 Aristida purpurea 20–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 20–40 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 20–40 – needle and thread HECO26 Hesperostipa comata 20–40 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 20–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 20–40 – James' galleta PLJA Pleuraphis jamesii 20–40 – muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 20–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 20–40 – Forb2 Primary Forbs 40–60 Forb, annual 2FA Forb, annual 10–20 – Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 10–20 – tapertip onion ALAC4 Allium acuminatum 10–20 – low pussytoes ANDI2 Antennaria dimorpha 10–20 – Utah milkvetch ASUT Astragalus utahensis 10–20 – northwestern Indian paintbrush CAAN7 Castilleja angustifolia 10–20 – sego lily CANU3 Calochortus nuttallii 10–20 – Douglas' dustymaiden CHDO Chaenactis douglasii 10–20 – maiden blue eyed Mary COPA3 Collinsia parviflora 10–20 – bastard toadflax COUM Comandra umbellata 10–20 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–20 – roundspike cryptantha CRHU2 Cryptantha humilis 10–20 – cushion buckwheat EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium 10–20 – shaggy fleabane ERPU2 Erigeron pumilus 10–20 – pingue rubberweed HYRI Hymenoxys richardsonii 10–20 – Gray's biscuitroot LOGR Lomatium grayi 10–20 – hoary tansyaster MACA2 Machaeranthera canescens 10–20 – pale evening primrose OEPA Oenothera pallida 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Tolmie's owl's-clover ORTO Orthocarpus tolmiei 10–20 – low beardtongue PEHU Penstemon humilis 10–20 – spiny phlox PHHO Phlox hoodii 10–20 – longleaf phlox PHLO2 Phlox longifolia 10–20 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 10–20 – yellow salsify TRDU Tragopogon dubius 10–20 – salsify TRPO Tragopogon porrifolius 10–20 – Shrub/Vine3 Primary Shrubs 150–250 Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 100–175 – yellow rabbitbrush CHVI8 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus 20–40 – Nevada jointfir EPNE Ephedra nevadensis 20–40 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 40–80 shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia 20–40 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 20–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 20–40 – spineless horsebrush TECA2 Tetradymia canescens 10–20 – shortspine horsebrush TESP2 Tetradymia spinosa 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – slender buckwheat ERMI4 Eriogonum microthecum 10–20 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 10–20 – spiny hopsage GRSP Grayia spinosa 10–20 – broom snakeweed GUSA2 Gutierrezia sarothrae 10–20 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 10–20 – black sagebrush ARNO4 Artemisia nova 10–20 – basin big sagebrush ARTRT Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata 10–20 – fourwing saltbush ATCA2 Atriplex canescens 10–20 – Table 27. Community 1.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Grasses 400–500 bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 200–275 – Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 175–250 – 4 Secondary Grasses 75–125 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 20–40 – purple threeawn ARPU9 Aristida purpurea 20–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 20–40 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 20–40 – needle and thread HECO26 Hesperostipa comata 20–40 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 20–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 20–40 – James' galleta PLJA Pleuraphis jamesii 20–40 – muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 20–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 20–40 – Forb2 Primary Forbs 40–60 Forb, annual 2FA Forb, annual 10–20 – Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 10–20 – tapertip onion ALAC4 Allium acuminatum 10–20 – low pussytoes ANDI2 Antennaria dimorpha 10–20 – Utah milkvetch ASUT Astragalus utahensis 10–20 – northwestern Indian paintbrush CAAN7 Castilleja angustifolia 10–20 – sego lily CANU3 Calochortus nuttallii 10–20 – Douglas' dustymaiden CHDO Chaenactis douglasii 10–20 – maiden blue eyed Mary COPA3 Collinsia parviflora 10–20 – bastard toadflax COUM Comandra umbellata 10–20 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–20 – roundspike cryptantha CRHU2 Cryptantha humilis 10–20 – cushion buckwheat EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium 10–20 – shaggy fleabane ERPU2 Erigeron pumilus 10–20 – pingue rubberweed HYRI Hymenoxys richardsonii 10–20 – hoary tansyaster MACA2 Machaeranthera canescens 10–20 – pale evening primrose OEPA Oenothera pallida 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Tolmie's owl's-clover ORTO Orthocarpus tolmiei 10–20 – low beardtongue PEHU Penstemon humilis 10–20 – spiny phlox PHHO Phlox hoodii 10–20 – longleaf phlox PHLO2 Phlox longifolia 10–20 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 10–20 – yellow salsify TRDU Tragopogon dubius 10–20 – salsify TRPO Tragopogon porrifolius 10–20 – Shrub/Vine3 Primary Shrubs 75–125 Nevada jointfir EPNE Ephedra nevadensis 20–40 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 20–40 – yellow rabbitbrush CHVI8 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus 20–40 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 40–80 shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia 20–40 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 20–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 20–40 – spineless horsebrush TECA2 Tetradymia canescens 10–20 – shortspine horsebrush TESP2 Tetradymia spinosa 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – slender buckwheat ERMI4 Eriogonum microthecum 10–20 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 10–20 – spiny hopsage GRSP Grayia spinosa 10–20 – broom snakeweed GUSA2 Gutierrezia sarothrae 10–20 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 10–20 – black sagebrush ARNO4 Artemisia nova 10–20 – basin big sagebrush ARTRT Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata 10–20 – fourwing saltbush ATCA2 Atriplex canescens 10–20 – Table 28. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Grasses 225–325 bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 150–180 – Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 120–140 – 4 Secondary Grasses 75–125 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 20–40 – purple threeawn ARPU9 Aristida purpurea 20–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 20–40 – red brome BRRU2 Bromus rubens 20–40 – cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 20–40 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 20–40 – needle and thread HECO26 Hesperostipa comata 20–40 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 20–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 20–40 – James' galleta PLJA Pleuraphis jamesii 20–40 – bulbous bluegrass POBU Poa bulbosa 20–40 – muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 20–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 20–40 – sixweeks fescue VUOC Vulpia octoflora 20–40 – Forb2 Primary Forbs 40–60 Forb, annual 2FA Forb, annual 10–20 – Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 10–20 – tapertip onion ALAC4 Allium acuminatum 10–20 – low pussytoes ANDI2 Antennaria dimorpha 10–20 – Utah milkvetch ASUT Astragalus utahensis 10–20 – northwestern Indian paintbrush CAAN7 Castilleja angustifolia 10–20 – sego lily CANU3 Calochortus nuttallii 10–20 – lambsquarters CHAL7 Chenopodium album 10–20 – Douglas' dustymaiden CHDO Chaenactis douglasii 10–20 – crossflower CHTE2 Chorispora tenella 10–20 – maiden blue eyed Mary COPA3 Collinsia parviflora 10–20 – bastard toadflax COUM Comandra umbellata 10–20 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–20 – roundspike cryptantha CRHU2 Cryptantha humilis 10–20 – western tansymustard DEPI Descurainia pinnata 10–20 – herb sophia DESO2 Descurainia sophia 10–20 – cushion buckwheat EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium 10–20 – shaggy fleabane ERPU2 Erigeron pumilus 10–20 – saltlover HAGL Halogeton glomeratus 10–20 – common sunflower HEAN3 Helianthus annuus 10–20 – pingue rubberweed HYRI Hymenoxys richardsonii 10–20 – prickly lettuce LASE Lactuca serriola 10–20 – hoary tansyaster MACA2 Machaeranthera canescens 10–20 – pale evening primrose OEPA Oenothera pallida 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Tolmie's owl's-clover ORTO Orthocarpus tolmiei 10–20 – low beardtongue PEHU Penstemon humilis 10–20 – spiny phlox PHHO Phlox hoodii 10–20 – longleaf phlox PHLO2 Phlox longifolia 10–20 – Russian thistle SAKA Salsola kali 10–20 – tall tumblemustard SIAL2 Sisymbrium altissimum 10–20 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 10–20 – yellow salsify TRDU Tragopogon dubius 10–20 – salsify TRPO Tragopogon porrifolius 10–20 – Shrub/Vine3 Primary Shrubs 150–250 Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 100–175 – yellow rabbitbrush CHVI8 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus 20–40 – Nevada jointfir EPNE Ephedra nevadensis 20–40 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 40–80 winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 20–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 20–40 – shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia 20–40 – slender buckwheat ERMI4 Eriogonum microthecum 10–20 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 10–20 – spiny hopsage GRSP Grayia spinosa 10–20 – broom snakeweed GUSA2 Gutierrezia sarothrae 10–20 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 10–20 – black sagebrush ARNO4 Artemisia nova 10–20 – basin big sagebrush ARTRT Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata 10–20 – fourwing saltbush ATCA2 Atriplex canescens 10–20 – spineless horsebrush TECA2 Tetradymia canescens 10–20 – shortspine horsebrush TESP2 Tetradymia spinosa 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Table 29. Community 2.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Grasses 225–325 sixweeks fescue VUOC Vulpia octoflora 100–150 – cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 100–150 – bulbous bluegrass POBU Poa bulbosa 100–150 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 20–40 – Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 20–40 – 4 Secondary Grasses 75–125 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 20–40 – purple threeawn ARPU9 Aristida purpurea 20–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 20–40 – red brome BRRU2 Bromus rubens 20–40 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 20–40 – needle and thread HECO26 Hesperostipa comata 20–40 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 20–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 20–40 – James' galleta PLJA Pleuraphis jamesii 20–40 – muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 20–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 20–40 – Forb2 Primary Forbs 40–60 Russian thistle SAKA Salsola kali 100–150 – crossflower CHTE2 Chorispora tenella 50–100 – western tansymustard DEPI Descurainia pinnata 50–100 – herb sophia DESO2 Descurainia sophia 50–100 – cushion buckwheat EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium 10–20 – shaggy fleabane ERPU2 Erigeron pumilus 10–20 – saltlover HAGL Halogeton glomeratus 10–20 – common sunflower HEAN3 Helianthus annuus 10–20 – pingue rubberweed HYRI Hymenoxys richardsonii 10–20 – prickly lettuce LASE Lactuca serriola 10–20 – hoary tansyaster MACA2 Machaeranthera canescens 10–20 – pale evening primrose OEPA Oenothera pallida 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Tolmie's owl's-clover ORTO Orthocarpus tolmiei 10–20 – low beardtongue PEHU Penstemon humilis 10–20 – spiny phlox PHHO Phlox hoodii 10–20 – longleaf phlox PHLO2 Phlox longifolia 10–20 – Forb, annual 2FA Forb, annual 10–20 – Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 10–20 – tapertip onion ALAC4 Allium acuminatum 10–20 – low pussytoes ANDI2 Antennaria dimorpha 10–20 – Utah milkvetch ASUT Astragalus utahensis 10–20 – northwestern Indian paintbrush CAAN7 Castilleja angustifolia 10–20 – sego lily CANU3 Calochortus nuttallii 10–20 – lambsquarters CHAL7 Chenopodium album 10–20 – Douglas' dustymaiden CHDO Chaenactis douglasii 10–20 – maiden blue eyed Mary COPA3 Collinsia parviflora 10–20 – bastard toadflax COUM Comandra umbellata 10–20 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–20 – roundspike cryptantha CRHU2 Cryptantha humilis 10–20 – tall tumblemustard SIAL2 Sisymbrium altissimum 10–20 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 10–20 – yellow salsify TRDU Tragopogon dubius 10–20 – salsify TRPO Tragopogon porrifolius 10–20 – Shrub/Vine3 Primary Shrubs 250–350 Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 200–270 – yellow rabbitbrush CHVI8 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus 20–40 – Nevada jointfir EPNE Ephedra nevadensis 20–40 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 40–80 shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia 20–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 20–40 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 20–40 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – spineless horsebrush TECA2 Tetradymia canescens 10–20 – shortspine horsebrush TESP2 Tetradymia spinosa 10–20 – slender buckwheat ERMI4 Eriogonum microthecum 10–20 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 10–20 – spiny hopsage GRSP Grayia spinosa 10–20 – broom snakeweed GUSA2 Gutierrezia sarothrae 10–20 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 10–20 – black sagebrush ARNO4 Artemisia nova 10–20 – basin big sagebrush ARTRT Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata 10–20 – fourwing saltbush ATCA2 Atriplex canescens 10–20 – Table 30. Community 2.3 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Grasses 225–325 intermediate wheatgrass THIN6 Thinopyrum intermedium 300–400 – crested wheatgrass AGCR Agropyron cristatum 300–400 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 60–90 – Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 40–60 – 4 Secondary Grasses 75–125 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 20–40 – purple threeawn ARPU9 Aristida purpurea 20–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 20–40 – red brome BRRU2 Bromus rubens 20–40 – cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 20–40 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 20–40 – needle and thread HECO26 Hesperostipa comata 20–40 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 20–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 20–40 – James' galleta PLJA Pleuraphis jamesii 20–40 – bulbous bluegrass POBU Poa bulbosa 20–40 – muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 20–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 20–40 – sixweeks fescue VUOC Vulpia octoflora 20–40 – Forb2 Primary Forbs 40–60 Forb, annual 2FA Forb, annual 10–20 – Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 10–20 – tapertip onion ALAC4 Allium acuminatum 10–20 – low pussytoes ANDI2 Antennaria dimorpha 10–20 – Utah milkvetch ASUT Astragalus utahensis 10–20 – northwestern Indian paintbrush CAAN7 Castilleja angustifolia 10–20 – sego lily CANU3 Calochortus nuttallii 10–20 – lambsquarters CHAL7 Chenopodium album 10–20 – Douglas' dustymaiden CHDO Chaenactis douglasii 10–20 – crossflower CHTE2 Chorispora tenella 10–20 – maiden blue eyed Mary COPA3 Collinsia parviflora 10–20 – bastard toadflax COUM Comandra umbellata 10–20 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–20 – roundspike cryptantha CRHU2 Cryptantha humilis 10–20 – western tansymustard DEPI Descurainia pinnata 10–20 – herb sophia DESO2 Descurainia sophia 10–20 – cushion buckwheat EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium 10–20 – shaggy fleabane ERPU2 Erigeron pumilus 10–20 – saltlover HAGL Halogeton glomeratus 10–20 – common sunflower HEAN3 Helianthus annuus 10–20 – pingue rubberweed HYRI Hymenoxys richardsonii 10–20 – prickly lettuce LASE Lactuca serriola 10–20 – hoary tansyaster MACA2 Machaeranthera canescens 10–20 – pale evening primrose OEPA Oenothera pallida 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Tolmie's owl's-clover ORTO Orthocarpus tolmiei 10–20 – low beardtongue PEHU Penstemon humilis 10–20 – spiny phlox PHHO Phlox hoodii 10–20 – longleaf phlox PHLO2 Phlox longifolia 10–20 – Russian thistle SAKA Salsola kali 10–20 – tall tumblemustard SIAL2 Sisymbrium altissimum 10–20 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 10–20 – yellow salsify TRDU Tragopogon dubius 10–20 – salsify TRPO Tragopogon porrifolius 10–20 – Shrub/Vine3 Primary Shrubs 75–125 yellow rabbitbrush CHVI8 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus 60–90 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 30–60 – Nevada jointfir EPNE Ephedra nevadensis 20–40 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 40–80 shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia 20–40 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 20–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 20–40 – spineless horsebrush TECA2 Tetradymia canescens 10–20 – shortspine horsebrush TESP2 Tetradymia spinosa 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – slender buckwheat ERMI4 Eriogonum microthecum 10–20 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 10–20 – spiny hopsage GRSP Grayia spinosa 10–20 – broom snakeweed GUSA2 Gutierrezia sarothrae 10–20 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 10–20 – black sagebrush ARNO4 Artemisia nova 10–20 – basin big sagebrush ARTRT Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata 10–20 – fourwing saltbush ATCA2 Atriplex canescens 10–20 – Table 31. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Grasses 350–450 intermediate wheatgrass THIN6 Thinopyrum intermedium 300–400 – crested wheatgrass AGCR Agropyron cristatum 300–400 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 100–150 – Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 100–150 – 4 Secondary Grasses 75–125 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 20–40 – purple threeawn ARPU9 Aristida purpurea 20–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 20–40 – red brome BRRU2 Bromus rubens 20–40 – cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 20–40 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 20–40 – needle and thread HECO26 Hesperostipa comata 20–40 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 20–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 20–40 – James' galleta PLJA Pleuraphis jamesii 20–40 – bulbous bluegrass POBU Poa bulbosa 20–40 – muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 20–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 20–40 – sixweeks fescue VUOC Vulpia octoflora 20–40 – Forb2 Primary Forbs 40–60 Forb, annual 2FA Forb, annual 10–20 – Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 10–20 – tapertip onion ALAC4 Allium acuminatum 10–20 – low pussytoes ANDI2 Antennaria dimorpha 10–20 – Utah milkvetch ASUT Astragalus utahensis 10–20 – northwestern Indian paintbrush CAAN7 Castilleja angustifolia 10–20 – sego lily CANU3 Calochortus nuttallii 10–20 – lambsquarters CHAL7 Chenopodium album 10–20 – Douglas' dustymaiden CHDO Chaenactis douglasii 10–20 – crossflower CHTE2 Chorispora tenella 10–20 – maiden blue eyed Mary COPA3 Collinsia parviflora 10–20 – bastard toadflax COUM Comandra umbellata 10–20 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–20 – roundspike cryptantha CRHU2 Cryptantha humilis 10–20 – western tansymustard DEPI Descurainia pinnata 10–20 – herb sophia DESO2 Descurainia sophia 10–20 – cushion buckwheat EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium 10–20 – shaggy fleabane ERPU2 Erigeron pumilus 10–20 – saltlover HAGL Halogeton glomeratus 10–20 – common sunflower HEAN3 Helianthus annuus 10–20 – pingue rubberweed HYRI Hymenoxys richardsonii 10–20 – prickly lettuce LASE Lactuca serriola 10–20 – hoary tansyaster MACA2 Machaeranthera canescens 10–20 – pale evening primrose OEPA Oenothera pallida 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Tolmie's owl's-clover ORTO Orthocarpus tolmiei 10–20 – low beardtongue PEHU Penstemon humilis 10–20 – spiny phlox PHHO Phlox hoodii 10–20 – longleaf phlox PHLO2 Phlox longifolia 10–20 – Russian thistle SAKA Salsola kali 10–20 – tall tumblemustard SIAL2 Sisymbrium altissimum 10–20 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 10–20 – yellow salsify TRDU Tragopogon dubius 10–20 – salsify TRPO Tragopogon porrifolius 10–20 – Shrub/Vine3 Primary Shrubs 75–125 yellow rabbitbrush CHVI8 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus 60–90 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 30–60 – Nevada jointfir EPNE Ephedra nevadensis 20–40 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 40–80 shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia 20–40 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 20–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 20–40 – spineless horsebrush TECA2 Tetradymia canescens 10–20 – shortspine horsebrush TESP2 Tetradymia spinosa 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – slender buckwheat ERMI4 Eriogonum microthecum 10–20 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 10–20 – spiny hopsage GRSP Grayia spinosa 10–20 – broom snakeweed GUSA2 Gutierrezia sarothrae 10–20 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 10–20 – black sagebrush ARNO4 Artemisia nova 10–20 – basin big sagebrush ARTRT Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata 10–20 – fourwing saltbush ATCA2 Atriplex canescens 10–20 – Table 32. Community 3.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Primary Grasses 350–450 sixweeks fescue VUOC Vulpia octoflora 100–200 – red brome BRRU2 Bromus rubens 100–200 – cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 100–200 – bulbous bluegrass POBU Poa bulbosa 100–200 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 20–40 – intermediate wheatgrass THIN6 Thinopyrum intermedium 20–40 – Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 20–40 – crested wheatgrass AGCR Agropyron cristatum 20–40 – 4 Secondary Grasses 75–125 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 20–40 – purple threeawn ARPU9 Aristida purpurea 20–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 20–40 – red brome BRRU2 Bromus rubens 20–40 – cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 20–40 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 20–40 – needle and thread HECO26 Hesperostipa comata 20–40 – basin wildrye LECI4 Leymus cinereus 20–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 20–40 – James' galleta PLJA Pleuraphis jamesii 20–40 – bulbous bluegrass POBU Poa bulbosa 20–40 – muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 20–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 20–40 – sixweeks fescue VUOC Vulpia octoflora 20–40 – Forb2 Primary Forbs 140–240 saltlover HAGL Halogeton glomeratus 60–90 – Russian thistle SAKA Salsola kali 60–90 – prickly lettuce LASE Lactuca serriola 60–90 – crossflower CHTE2 Chorispora tenella 60–90 – western tansymustard DEPI Descurainia pinnata 60–90 – herb sophia DESO2 Descurainia sophia 60–90 – cushion buckwheat EROV Eriogonum ovalifolium 10–20 – shaggy fleabane ERPU2 Erigeron pumilus 10–20 – maiden blue eyed Mary COPA3 Collinsia parviflora 10–20 – bastard toadflax COUM Comandra umbellata 10–20 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 10–20 – roundspike cryptantha CRHU2 Cryptantha humilis 10–20 – Forb, annual 2FA Forb, annual 10–20 – Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 10–20 – tapertip onion ALAC4 Allium acuminatum 10–20 – low pussytoes ANDI2 Antennaria dimorpha 10–20 – Utah milkvetch ASUT Astragalus utahensis 10–20 – northwestern Indian paintbrush CAAN7 Castilleja angustifolia 10–20 – sego lily CANU3 Calochortus nuttallii 10–20 – lambsquarters CHAL7 Chenopodium album 10–20 – Douglas' dustymaiden CHDO Chaenactis douglasii 10–20 – hoary tansyaster MACA2 Machaeranthera canescens 10–20 – pale evening primrose OEPA Oenothera pallida 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – Tolmie's owl's-clover ORTO Orthocarpus tolmiei 10–20 – low beardtongue PEHU Penstemon humilis 10–20 – spiny phlox PHHO Phlox hoodii 10–20 – longleaf phlox PHLO2 Phlox longifolia 10–20 – tall tumblemustard SIAL2 Sisymbrium altissimum 10–20 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 10–20 – yellow salsify TRDU Tragopogon dubius 10–20 – salsify TRPO Tragopogon porrifolius 10–20 – common sunflower HEAN3 Helianthus annuus 10–20 – pingue rubberweed HYRI Hymenoxys richardsonii 10–20 – Shrub/Vine3 Primary Shrubs 75–125 yellow rabbitbrush CHVI8 Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus 60–90 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 30–60 – Nevada jointfir EPNE Ephedra nevadensis 20–40 – 5 Secondary Shrubs 40–80 shadscale saltbush ATCO Atriplex confertifolia 20–40 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 20–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 20–40 – spineless horsebrush TECA2 Tetradymia canescens 10–20 – shortspine horsebrush TESP2 Tetradymia spinosa 10–20 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 10–20 – slender buckwheat ERMI4 Eriogonum microthecum 10–20 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 10–20 – spiny hopsage GRSP Grayia spinosa 10–20 – broom snakeweed GUSA2 Gutierrezia sarothrae 10–20 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 10–20 – black sagebrush ARNO4 Artemisia nova 10–20 – basin big sagebrush ARTRT Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata 10–20 – fourwing saltbush ATCA2 Atriplex canescens 10–20 – Interpretations
Supporting information
Contributors
Keith Wadman
Approval
Kendra Moseley, 6/12/2025
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) Contact for lead author Date 06/29/2026 Approved by Approval date Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on Annual Production Indicators
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Number and extent of rills:
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Presence of water flow patterns:
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Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
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Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
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Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
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Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
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Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
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Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
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Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
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Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
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Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
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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:
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Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
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Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
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Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
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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:
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Perennial plant reproductive capability:
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PrintThe 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.
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