Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Semidesert Gypsum (Torrey's Jointfir)
Scenario model
Current ecosystem state
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Management practices/drivers
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- Transition T1A 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 refence state consists of a diverse shrub canopy dominated by Torrey's jointfir. The understory is usually dominated by a diverse perennial grass community, but can sometimes be dominated by lichen crusts. Lichen crusts tend to dominate in areas with relatively harsh soil conditions (less deep, less infiltration, more gypsum, etc) that are less likely to be disturbed (more isolated, more steep, etc). The exact dynamics between grass and lichen communities are poorly understood.
This state is susceptible to non-native invasive species establishment. Disturbances such as livestock grazing and recreation can increase the likelihood of invasion by promoting germination sites and/or seed sources for non-native species. However, Russian thistle is capable of establishing on this site in the absense of disturbance.
Submodel
Description
The invaded state resembles the reference state in both community structure and function, but non-native species, notably Russian thistle, are present. As a result, the resilience of the state is somewhat reduced and the possibility of further degradation is greater.
Submodel
Mechanism
This transition occurs with the establishment of non-native invasive species. Disturbances that promote this transition include season long continuous grazing of perennial grasses, prolonged drought, recreation or other surface disturbances. However, invasive species such as Russian thistle can invade intact perennial plant communities with little to no disturbance. Once invasive plants are found in the plant community, a return to the reference state is not likely.
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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