Natural Resources
Conservation Service
LIMESTONE HILL 5-7 P.Z.
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T1 More details
- Transition T2 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 represents the natural range of variability under pristine conditions. This state is dominated by long-lived evergreen shrub communities with an understory of cool and warm season perennial bunchgrasses. Plant community phase changes are primarily driven by fire, long-term drought and/or insect attack. Historically, fire is rare in this system, but does impact long-term plant community dynamics.
Submodel
Description
The invaded state is characterized by a the presence of non-native species in the understory. Introduced annuals such as red brome, cheatgrass and redstem filaree have invaded the reference plant community and have become a dominant component of the herbaceous cover. A biotic threshold is crossed, with the introduction of non-native annuals that are difficult to remove from the system and have the potential to alter disturbance regimes significantly from their natural or historic range of variation. These non-native annuals are highly flammable and promote wildfires where fires historically have been infrequent.
Submodel
Description
This state is characterized by the inability of blackbrush to return to the site following wildfire or other disturbance. A biotic threshold has been crossed due to insufficient climatic conditions, the lack of an available seed source or both which prevent the reestablishment of blackbrush in the plant community. Plant community phases consist of fire tolerant shrubs with high growth rates and high reproductive capacities, that were present in smaller quantities in the reference plant community.
Submodel
Mechanism
Introduction of non-native species due 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.
Mechanism
Wildfire, insect attack or other disturbance resulting in the removal of blackbrush, in combination with insufficient climatic conditions for germination and establishment of blackbrush. Blackbrush requires specific climatic conditions for germination and survival.
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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