Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Large, Sandy, Thermic, Ephemeral Stream
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
Select a state
Management practices/drivers
Select a transition or restoration pathway
- Transition T1a More details
- Transition 2a More details
- Restoration pathway 3a More details
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No transition or restoration pathway between the selected states has been described
Target ecosystem state
Select a state
Description
State 1 represents the historic-natural condition for this ecological site. It is similar to State 2, but has only native species. If we were to include dynamics for this state it would be the same as displayed in State 2. The presence of non-native species is minimal in State 2, and has not altered the hydrology or fire frequency.
Submodel
State 2
Reference State
Reference State
Description
This state represents the most common and most ecologically intact condition for this ecological site at the present time.
Submodel
Mechanism
Transition to State 2 is based on the introduction of non-native species, mainly annual grasses. There may be only a trance amount of non-natives present.
Mechanism
Triggers that can cause a transition to State 3 include ground water depletion, surface flow alterations, and prolonged drought. Any of the community phases from this state can cross the threshold to State 3, but community phase 2.3 and the later stages of 2.2 are especially vulnerable because decreases in xeroriparian vegetation density (and upland vegetation density) leave soils more susceptible to erosion (Bull 1997).
Mechanism
Restoration methods to restore natural hydrology need to be assessed for individual stream sections. Ground water depletion is a community-wide water management concern. Roads can be improved to eliminate diversion of surface flow. Pervious surfaces could be used in place of impervious surfaces if possible.
Model keys
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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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