Natural Resources
Conservation Service
GYPSIC LOAM 3-5 P.Z.
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition 1 More details
- Transition 2 More details
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
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Description
The Reference State is characterized by a shrub dominated plant community and a high cover of microbiotic soil crust. Historically, this state experienced an extended fire return interval, which resulted in long-lived stable plant communities. These communities were sparsely vegetated, therefore soil stability was primarily provided by microbiotic soil crust.
Submodel
Description
Introduced annuals such as red brome, schismus and redstem stork's bill have invaded the reference plant community and have become a dominant component of the herbaceous cover. This invasion of non-natives is attributed to a combination of factors including: 1) surface disturbances, 2) changes in the kinds of animals and their grazing patterns, 3) drought, and 4) changes in fire history. These non-natives annuals are highly flammable and promote wildfires where fires historically have been infrequent.
PSFR and ATHY would persist after invasion by non-native annuals, but other shrubs and desirable grasses may be unsuccessful in competing with the non-natives can can potenialy be removed from the system.
A biotic threshold has been crossed with the introduction of non-native annuals that cannot be removed from the system. Ecological resiliency has been reduced by the presence of non-native annual species that have the potential to alter disturbance regimes significantly from their natural or historic range of variability.
Submodel
Description
The Eroded State is characterized by a reduction in soil stabilization do to a loss of vegetative cover and microbiotic soil crust. A biotic threshold has been crossed, with the loss of long-lived native vegetation, leading to active soil erosion.This state is characterized by a new ecological equilibrium, one that includes reduced nutrient cycling and infiltration.
Submodel
Mechanism
Introduction of non-natives due to anthropogenic impacts, including OHV use, dry land farming, grazing, linear corridors, mining, military training operations and settlements.
Model keys
Briefcase
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Ecological sites
Major Land Resource Areas
The Ecosystem Dynamics Interpretive Tool is an information system framework developed by the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and New Mexico State University.
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