Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Ecological site EX043B23A104
Clayey (Cy)
Absaroka Lower Foothills
Last updated: 3/26/2025
Accessed: 08/27/2026
-
Search
Major Land Resource Area or ecological site by name and/or ID.
PreviousSectionsNextGeneral information
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): 043B–Central Rocky Mountains
43B – Central Rocky Mountains – The Central Rocky Mountains extends from northern Montana to southern extent of Wyoming and from Idaho to central Wyoming. The southern extent of 43B is comprised of a combination of metamorphic, igneous, and sedimentary mountains and foothills. Climatic changes across this extent are broad and create several unique breaks in the landscape.
Further information regarding MLRAs, refer to: United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2006. Land Resource Regions and Major Land Resource Areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook 296.
Available electronically at: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/soils/ref/?cid=nrcs142p2_053624#handbook.LRU notes
Land Resource Unit (LRU) 043B23A: Absaroka Lower Foothills
Based on the shifts in geology, precipitation patterns and other climatic factors, as well as elevations and vegetation, the Absaroka Range was divided into LRU 23. Further division of this LRU is necessary due to the gradient moving from the foothills to the summit, as well as aspect shifts (east face versus west face). Subset A is set for the lower elevations within the foothills with 10 to 14 inches of precipitation. To verify or identify the LRU A (the referenced LRU for this ecological site), refer to the Wyoming LRU matrix key contained within the Ecological Site Key. This particular LRU occurs along the eastern lower foothills of the Absaroka Range. This LRU starts north of Clark, WY and runs to the Thermopolis, WY area. Once the foothills cross into the Northern Beartooth Range, the climatic patterns and elevational changes shifts the plant community and allows for a break in LRU's near the Montana state line. As the LRU follows to the south and tracks east with the intersection of the Absaroka and Owl Creek Ranges, the face changes aspect and geology creating a shift in plant dynamics and a break in the LRU. The extent of soils currently correlated to this ecological site does not fit within the digitized boundary. Many of the noted soils are provisional and will be reviewed and corrected in mapping update projects. Other map units are correlated as small inclusions within other MLRA’s/LRU’s based on elevation, landform, and biological references.
Moisture Regime: Aridic Ustic or Ustic Aridic – Progressive Initial mapping has shown that soil correlations completed prior to 2014 were identified as ustic aridic, after further evaluation of climatic and soil taxonomy information the proper moisture regime is aridic ustic. Both are recorded here until an update project is completed to correct the previous correlations.
Temperature Regime: Frigid
Dominant Cover: Rangeland – Sagebrush Steppe (major species is Wyoming Big Sagebrush)
Representative Value (RV) Effective Precipitation: 10-14 inches (254 – 355 mm)
RV Frost-Free Days: 80-110 daysClassification relationships
Relationship to Other Established Classification Systems:
National Vegetation Classification System (NVC):
3 Xeromorphic Woodland, Scrub & Herb Vegetation Class
3.B Cool Semi-Desert Scrub & Grassland Subclass
3.B.1 Cool Semi-Desert Scrub & Grassland formation
3.B.1.NE Western North American Cool Semi-Desert Scrub & Grassland Division
M169 Great Basin & Intermountain Tall Sagebrush Shrubland & Steppe Macrogroup
G302 Artemisia Tridentata - Artemisia tripartita - Purshia tridentata Big Sagebrush Steppe Group
CEGL001535 - Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Pseudoroegneria spicata Herbaceous Vegetation or
CEGL001009 - Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrubland
Ecoregions (EPA):
Level I: 10 North American Deserts
Level II: 10.1 Cold Deserts
Level III: 10.1.18 Wyoming Basin
Level IV: 10.1.18.b Big Horn Basin and
10.1.18.d Foothills and Low MountainsEcological site concept
• Site receives no additional water.
• Slope is <20%
• Soils are:
o Textures range from loamy sand to very fine sandy loam in top 4” (10 cm) of mineral soil surface
o Clay content is ≥35% in top 4” (10 cm) of mineral soil surface
o All subsurface horizons in the particle size control section have a weighted average of ≥ 35% clay. (The particle size control section is the segment of the profile from either the start of an argillic horizon for 50 cm’s or from 25-100 cm’s).
o Moderately deep to very deep (20-80+ in. (50-200+ cm)
o <3% stone and boulder cover and 20% or less cobble and gravel cover
o Not skeletal (<35% rock fragments) within 20” (50 cm) of mineral soil surface
o None to Slightly effervescent throughout top 20” (50 cm) of mineral soil surface
o Non-saline, sodic, or saline-sodic
The Clayey ecological site concept is based on minimal (none to slight) influence from salts, carbonates, gypsum or other chemistry within the top 20 inches (50 cm) of the mineral soil surface. The main soil characteristic is a moderately deep to very deep soil that is fine textured with greater than or equal to 35% clay throughout the soil profile; the dominant soil textural classes are loamy sand to sandy loam in the subsurface.
The clayey site can be found occurring in a complex mosaic pattern where the geology is controlled by inter-bedded sandstone and shale. Locations controlled by primarily shale bedrock have pockets of saline upland, dense clay, and loamy sites intermixed with the clayey ecological site.Associated sites
EX043B23A138 Saline Lowland (SL) Absaroka Lower Foothills
Saline Lowlands are found as you move off of the upland clayey ecological site down along the riparian corridors and floodplains of the drainages/streams cutting through the foothills.
EX043B23A144 Saline Upland (SU) Absaroka Lower Foothills
Saline Upland sites may be very similar in texture, but have a significant content of salt that affects the plant community.
EX043B23A106 Clayey Overflow (CyO) Absaroka Lower Foothills
Clayey Overflow sites are found in concave positions along slopes and will be similar to clayey sites, but receive additional extra moisture (with no water table) from upland runoff or overflow from intermittent streams. These sites are higher in productivity and have basin wildrye, slender wheatgrass, and snowberry.
EX043B23A109 Cobbly Upland (CoU) Absaroka Lower Foothills
Dense Clay is similar in characteristics, however dense clay starts with a coarser textured soil surface texture and then has an abrupt increase in clay. This site is characterized by a birdfoot sagebrush dominated community.
EX043B23A122 Loamy (Ly) Absaroka Lower Foothills
Loamy sites are noted by slightly coarser in texture (>18% but < 35% clays), and have a mixture of needleandthread with rhizomatous wheatgrasses. Runoff is less of an issue on Loamy soils and plants tend to maintain a higher vigor with the increased ease of infiltration.
EX043B23A150 Sandy (Sy) Absaroka Lower Foothills
Sandy sites are found along the sandstone outcrops and in the same inter-bedded sedimentary uplifts. Sandy soils are dominated by Indian ricegrass and needleandthread. They tend to show drought stress quicker than clayey sites, but have similar production as the clayey site.
EX043B23A158 Shallow Clayey (SwCy) Absaroka Lower Foothills
Shallow Clayey soils are found along the outcrops and eroded slopes of shale (claystone) parent materials. These sites are lower in productivity with increased bare ground, but otherwise are very similar in characteristics.
Similar sites
R032XY104WY Clayey (Cy) 5-9” Big Horn Basin Precipitation Zone
Clayey 5-9
R032XY304WY Clayey (Cy) 10-14" East Precipitation Zone
Clayey 10-14
R032XY204WY Clayey (Cy) 5-9” Wind River Basin Precipitation Zone
Clayey 5-9
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub (1) Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis
Herbaceous (1) Achnatherum hymenoides
(2) Elymus albicansLegacy ID
R043BX504WY
Physiographic features
This site occurs on nearly level to 20% slopes. The primary parent material is shale (claystone), but is found in the inter-bedded shale and sandstone, as well as along the dolomite and volcanic uplifts.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Foothills > Hillslope
(2) Foothills > Fan apron
(3) Foothills > Eroded fan remnant
Runoff class Very low to very high Ponding duration Brief (2 to 7 days) Ponding frequency Rare Elevation 5400 – 7500 ft Slope 0 – 20 % Aspect Aspect is not a significant factor Climatic features
Annual precipitation and modeled relative effective annual precipitation ranges from 10 to 14 inches (254 – 355 mm). The normal precipitation pattern shows peaks in May and June and a secondary peak in September. This amounts to about 50% of the mean annual precipitation. Much of the moisture that falls in the latter part of the summer is lost by evaporation and much of the moisture that falls during the winter is lost by sublimation. Average snowfall is about 20 inches annually. Wide fluctuations may occur in yearly precipitation and result in more dry years than those with more than normal precipitation.
Temperatures show a wide range between summer and winter and between daily maximums and minimums, due to the high elevation and dry air, which permits rapid incoming and outgoing radiation. Cold air outbreaks from Canada in winter move rapidly from northwest to southeast and account for extreme minimum temperatures. Chinook winds may occur in winter and bring rapid rises in temperature. Extreme storms may occur during the winter, but most severely affect ranch operations during late winter and spring. High winds are generally blocked from the basin by high mountains, but can occur in conjunction with an occasional thunderstorm. Growth of native cool-season plants begins about April 15th and continues until about July 1st. Cool weather and moisture in September may produce some green up of cool season plants that will continue through late October.
Review of a 30 year trend of data for Average Temperature as well as Average Precipitation, there has been a warming trend, but as the last 12 years graphed, the temperatures have swayed high and low, but overall it has maintained a steady trajectory, neither increasing nor decreasing. Where on the moisture side, the trajectory in trend has been a slow decline. The swings of when spring warm up and first frost hit with the decline in average precipitation have produced a drought effect where the moisture is not being received when the plants and ground is able to utilize the moisture. And in some cases, the late precipitation has encouraged the warm season or mat forming species over the cool season bunchgrasses that are the drivers of the natural system. Early frosts, with dry open winters has created a more arid or desert effect on plants resulting in high rates of winter kill, loss of vigor or overall damage to the plant.
For detailed information visit the Natural Resources Conservation Service National Water and Climate Center at http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/. “Buffalo Bill Dam", "Cody 21SW", "Thermopolis", "Thermopolis 9NE", "Thermopolis 25WNW" and "Wapiti 1NE" are the representative weather stations within LRU D. The following graphs and charts are a collective sample representing the averaged normals and 30 year annual rainfall data for the selected weather stations from 1981 to 2010.Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (characteristic range) 60-110 days Freeze-free period (characteristic range) 100-140 days Precipitation total (characteristic range) 10-10 in Frost-free period (actual range) 50-120 days Freeze-free period (actual range) 90-150 days Precipitation total (actual range) 10-10 in Frost-free period (average) 80 days Freeze-free period (average) 120 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
-
(1) THERMOPOLIS 25WNW [USC00488888], Thermopolis, WY
-
(2) WAPITI 1NE [USC00489467], Cody, WY
-
(3) CODY 21 SW [USC00481855], Cody, WY
-
(4) SUNSHINE 3NE [USC00488758], Meeteetse, WY
-
(5) THERMOPOLIS [USC00488875], Thermopolis, WY
-
(6) BUFFALO BILL DAM [USC00481175], Cody, WY
">Influencing water features
The characteristics of these upland soils have no influence from ground water (water table below 60 inches (150 cm)) and have minimal influence from surface water/overland flow. Depressional areas may pond runoff and precipitation for a short period of time, but is not significant enough to alter the reference vegetation for this site. There may also be isolated features that are affected by snow pack that persists longer than surrounding areas due to position on the landform (shaded/protected pockets).
Soil features
The soils of this site are moderately deep (greater than 20” to bedrock) to very deep, moderately well to well-drained soils that formed in alluvium or alluvium over residuum. These soils have slow to moderate permeability. The surface soil will vary from 2 to 5 inches deep. These soils may develop severe cracks. The soil characteristics having the most influence on plants are the heavy texture, available moisture, and potential for elevated quantities of soluble salts.
Major Soil Series correlated to this site include: Abston, Absher, Havre, PoposhiaTable 4. Representative soil features
Parent material (1) Slope alluvium – sedimentary rock
(2) Residuum – sedimentary rock
(3) Colluvium – sedimentary rock
Surface texture (1) Clay loam
(2) Clay
(3) Silty clay loam
Family particle size (1) Clayey
Drainage class Moderately well drained to well drained Permeability class Slow to moderate Soil depth 20 – 60 in Available water capacity
(0-40in)3 – 6 in Calcium carbonate equivalent
(0-40in)0 – 14 % Electrical conductivity
(0-40in)0 – 4 mmhos/cm Sodium adsorption ratio
(0-40in)0 – 12 Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-40in)6.4 – 8.2 Ecological dynamics
Potential vegetation on this site is dominated by mid cool-season perennial grasses. Other significant vegetation includes big sagebrush, winterfat, Gardner’s saltbush, birdfoot sagebrush, and a variety of forbs. The expected potential composition for this site is about 75% grasses, 10% forbs and 15% woody plants. The composition and production will vary naturally due to historical use, fluctuating precipitation and fire frequency.
As this site deteriorates species such as blue grama, birdfoot sagebrush, and big sagebrush will increase. Plains pricklypear and weedy annuals will invade. Cool-season grasses such as Griffiths and bluebunch wheatgrass, western wheatgrass, bottlebrush squirreltail, and Indian ricegrass will decrease in frequency and overall production.
Big sagebrush may become dominant on some areas with an absence of fire. Wildfires are actively controlled in recent times so chemical control using herbicides has replaced the historic role of fire on this site. Recently, prescribed burning has regained some popularity.
Due to the amount and pattern of the precipitation, the big sagebrush component typically is not resilient once it has been removed if a healthy and vigorous stand of grass exists and is maintained. The exception to this is where the herbaceous component is severely degraded at the time of treatment, growing conditions are unfavorable after treatment, and/or recovery periods are inadequate due to poor grazing management.
The Historic Climax Plant Community (description follows the plant community diagram) has been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, or areas protected from excessive disturbance. Trends in plant communities going from heavily grazed areas to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts have also been used.
The following is a State and Transition Model Diagram that illustrates the common plant communities (states) that can occur on the site and the transitions between these communities. The ecological processes will be discussed in more detail in the plant community narratives following the diagram.State and transition model
Custom diagramStandard diagram
More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective textEcosystem states
State 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 4 submodel, plant communities
State 5 submodel, plant communities
State 6 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Indian Ricegrass/Rhizomatous wheatgrassesCommunity 1.1
Indian Ricegrass/Rhizomatous wheatgrassesThe interpretive plant community for this site is the Historic Climax Plant Community. This state evolved with grazing by large herbivores and periodic fires. The cyclical nature of the fire regime in this community prevented big sagebrush from being the dominant landscape. This plant community can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning, and on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. Potential vegetation is about 75% grasses or grass-like plants, 10% forbs, and 15% woody plants. Cool season mid-grasses dominate the state.
The major grasses include Indian ricegrass, western wheatgrasses, Griffiths and bluebunch wheatgrass, bottlebrush squirreltail, and mutton bluegrass. Green needlegrass may also be a major grass but will occur in the higher precipitation areas of this site. Other grasses occurring in this state include Sandberg bluegrass and blue grama. A mixture of woody species is a conspicuous element and occurs in mosaic patterns across the site. Wildfires occur periodically in this community and prevent big sagebrush from becoming a dominant species. A variety of forbs also occur in this state and plant diversity is high (see Plant Composition Table).
The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 800 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 500 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 1100 lbs./acre in above average years.
The state is stable and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allow for high drought resistance. This is a sustainable plant community (site/soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity).
Transitions or pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows:
• Drought, and moderate season long grazing with the absence of fire, will convert this plant community to the Perennial Grass/Mixed Shrub Plant Community.Figure 7. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Figure 8. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701 , 10-14E upland sites.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 5 25 40 10 5 10 5 State 2
Perennial Grass/Mixed ShrubCommunity 2.1
Perennial Grass/Mixed ShrubHistorically, this plant community evolved under grazing by large ungulates and a low fire frequency. Currently, this site is normally found under a moderate, season-long grazing regime and in the absence of fire or brush control. Prolonged drought can also play an important role and will exacerbate these conditions. Big sagebrush, Gardner’s saltbush, and birdfoot sagebrush are important components of this plant community. Cool-season grasses make up the majority of the understory with the balance made up of short warm-season grasses, annual cool-season grass, and miscellaneous forbs.
Dominant grasses include rhizomatous wheatgrasses, Griffiths and bluebunch wheatgrass, bottlebrush squirreltail, and mutton bluegrass. Forbs commonly found in this plant community, include woody aster, phlox, wild onion, false carrot, and scarlet globemallow. The annual production of shrubs has increased as compared to the HCPC and may become as much as 25% of the total percent composition of the plant community. The overstory of sagebrush and understory of grass and forbs provide a diverse plant community.
When compared to the Historic Climax Plant Community, big sagebrush, as well as other shrubs, and blue grama have increased. Plains pricklypear cactus has often invaded, but occurs only in small patches. Indian ricegrass has decreased and may occur in only trace amounts under the sagebrush canopy or within the patches of pricklypear. In addition, winterfat may or may not have changed depending on the season of use.
The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 600 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 400 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 900 lbs./acre in above average years.
This plant community is resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. The herbaceous component is mostly intact and plant vigor and replacement capabilities are sufficient. Water flow patterns and litter movement may be occurring but only on steeper slopes. Incidence of pedestalling is minimal. Soils are mostly stable and the surface shows minimum soil loss. The watershed is functioning and the biotic community is intact.
Transitional pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows:
• Prescribed grazing or possibly long-term prescribed grazing will return this state to near Historic Climax Plant Community. The probability of this occurring is high especially if rotational grazing along with short deferred grazing is implemented as part of the prescribed method of use. In addition, the removal of fire suppression will allow a somewhat natural fire regime to reoccur to more easily transition between this plant community and the HCPC. A prescribed fire treatment can be useful to hasten this transition if desired.
• Frequent and severe grazing with the absences of fire on less saline soils will convert this plant community to a Mixed Shrub/Bare Ground Plant Community.
• Wildfire or brush management and frequent and severe grazing on less saline soils will convert this plant community to a Blue Grama Sod Plant Community.
• Frequent and severe grazing plus no fire on more saline soils will convert this state to a Salt Tolerant Shrub/Bare Ground Plant Community.Figure 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701 , 10-14E upland sites.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 5 25 40 10 5 10 5 State 3
Mixed Shrub/Bare GroundCommunity 3.1
Mixed Shrub/Bare GroundThis plant community evolved under frequent and severe grazing with the absence of fire on less saline soils. Big sagebrush is the dominant species of this plant community. Cool-season grasses have been mostly eliminated and if still present can only be found under the sagebrush canopy. The interspaces between plants have expanded leaving the amount of bare ground more prevalent and more soil surface exposed to erosive elements.
The dominant grasses are Sandberg bluegrass and blue grama. Weedy annual species such as cheatgrass have invaded if a seed source is available. Cactus and sageworts often increase. Noxious weeds such as Russian knapweed, leafy spurge, or Canada thistle may invade the site. Plant diversity is moderate to poor. When compared with the HCPC or the Mixed Shrub/ Perennial Grass Plant Communities, the annual production is similar, as the shrub production compensates for the decline in the herbaceous production.
The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 500 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 300 lbs/acre in unfavorable years to about 700 lbs/acre in above average years.
This plant community is resistant to change as the stand becomes more decadent. These areas may actually be more resistant to fire as less fine fuels are available and the bare ground between the sagebrush plants is increased. Continued frequent and severe grazing or the removal of grazing does not seem to affect the plant composition or structure of the plant community. Plant diversity is moderate to low. The plant vigor is diminished and replacement capabilities are limited due to the reduced number of cool-season grasses. Plant litter is noticeably less when compared to the HCPC.
Soil erosion is accelerated because of increased bare ground. Water flow patterns and pedestalling are obvious. Infiltration is reduced and runoff is increased. Rill channels may be noticeable in the interspaces and gullies may be establishing where rills have concentrated down slope.
Transitional pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows:
• Brush Management or wildfire followed by frequent and severe grazing, will convert this plant community to a Blue Grama Sod Plant Community.
• Brush management, followed by prescribed grazing and seeding if necessary, will return this plant community at or near the HCPC. If prescribed fire is used as a means to reduce or remove the shrubs, sufficient fine fuels will need to be present. This may require deferment from grazing prior to treatment. Post management is critical to ensure success. This can range from two or more years of rest to partial growing season deferment, depending on the condition of the understory at the time of treatment and the growing conditions following treatment. In the case of an intense wildfire that occurs when desirable plants are not completely dormant, the length of time required to reach the HCPC may be increased and seeding of natives is recommended.Figure 10. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701 , 10-14E upland sites.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 5 25 40 10 5 10 5 State 4
Sod BoundCommunity 4.1
Blue grama sodThis plant community is the result of frequent and severe yearlong grazing over a period of years. Soils on these sites show limited amounts of soluble salts. It is dominated by a dense sod of blue grama and includes a mosaic shrub overstory. Big sagebrush may be present but usually birdfoot sagebrush is the most important shrub in this plant community. Pricklypear cactus can become dense in areas so that livestock cannot graze forage growing within the cactus clumps.
When compared with the Historic Climax Plant Community warm season grasses have replaced most cool season midgrasses. Blue grama, threadleaf sedge have increased. Pricklypear cactus has invaded. All cool-season mid-grasses, forbs, and most shrubs have been greatly reduced. Production has been significantly decreased.
The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 200 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 100 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 300 lbs./acre in above average years.
This sod is extremely resistant to change and continued frequent and severe grazing or the removal of grazing does not seem to affect the plant composition or structure of the plant community. The biotic integrity of this state is not functional and plant diversity is extremely low. Plant vigor is significantly weakened and replacement capabilities are limited due to the reduced number of cool-season grasses.
This state is stable and protected from excessive erosion. The sod formed by these grasses is resistant to water infiltration. While the soil is protected by this sod, excessive runoff may occur off-site. As a result, rills or other more severe erosion can occur on the adjoining sites. The watershed may or may not be functioning, as runoff may affect adjoining sites. The biotic integrity of this plant community is not intact.
Transitional pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows:
• Grazing land mechanical treatment (chiseling and seeding, etc.) followed by prescribed grazing will return this plant community to near Historic Climax Plant Community.Figure 11. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701 , 10-14E upland sites.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 5 25 40 10 5 10 5 State 5
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Bare GroundCommunity 5.1
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Bare GroundThis plant community can occur on sites subjected to frequent and severe grazing and on soils influenced by elevated amount of soluble salts. Salt tolerant shrubs replace Wyoming big sagebrush as the major overstory species and the preferred cool season grasses have been eliminated or greatly reduced. Bare ground and weedy grasses and forbs dominate the understory.
This site is dominated by an overstory of salt tolerant shrubs, such as greasewood, birdfoot sagebrush and saltbushes, which can vary widely in their composition and production. The leaves of some of these plants contain high amounts of sodium and other salts, and when shed these soluble salts are transferred to the soils underneath the plants. Consequently, the soil can exhibit wide variations in soluble salts, which can explain the variation in shrub composition. Big sagebrush and rubber rabbitbrush are present but are mostly in small patches.
Perennial cool season mid-grasses have been removed leaving mostly patches of blue grama and annuals. Cheatgrass and weedy annual forbs such as halogeton, Russian thistle, and kochia, will occupy the site if a seed source is available. Noxious weeds such as Russian knapweed may also invade this site. Plant diversity is moderate to poor.
When compared to the HCPC, grass production has diminished but is off set by the increase in shrub production. The interspaces between plants have expanded leaving the amount of bare ground more prevalent. Surface salts have increased, especially on sites dominated by greasewood and saltbushes.
The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 450 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 250 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 550 lbs./acre in above average years.
This plant community is resistant to change. These areas are actually more resistant to fire as less fine fuels are available and the bare ground between the shrubs has increased. Continued frequent and severe grazing or the removal of grazing does not seem to affect the composition or structure of the plant community. Plant diversity is moderate to poor. The biotic integrity of this state is mostly dysfunctional because of the predominant salt tolerant shrub overstory and absence of perennial cool-season grasses.
Soil erosion is accelerated because of increased bare ground. Water flow patterns and pedestalling are obvious. Infiltration is reduced and runoff is increased. Rill channels may be noticeable in the interspaces and gullies may be establishing where rills have concentrated down slope.
Transitions or pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows:
• Prescribed grazing or possibly long-term prescribed grazing, will convert this plant community to the Salt Tolerant Shrub/Rhizomatous Wheatgrass Plant Community. Recovery to near Historic Climax Plant Community condition is difficult to impossible due to the resistance of these shrubs to herbicides and other brush management techniques. In addition, the increase in surface salts has had accumulated effects on the soil so most of the herbaceous plants associated with the HCPC are no longer suitable for this site. The most notable exception is the rhizomatous wheatgrasses and bottlebrush squirreltail. Soil remediation to reduce the surface salts is not recommended, as this is mostly ineffective and extremely costly. Seeding more salt-tolerant native grasses and forbs will improve the productivity of site and plant cover.Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701 , 10-14E upland sites.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 5 25 40 10 5 10 5 State 6
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Rhizomatous WheatgrassesCommunity 6.1
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Rhizomatous WheatgrassesThis plant community can occur where a prescribed grazing management practice is implemented on the Salt Tolerant/Bare Ground Plant Community. Salt tolerant shrubs and Wyoming big sagebrush still remain a significant component of the plant community but preferred cool season grasses have reestablished.
This site is dominated by an overstory of a variety of shrubs, such as Wyoming big sagebrush, rubber rabbitbrush, greasewood, and a variety of saltbushes. Some perennial cool season mid-grasses have once again reestablished such as rhizomatous wheatgrasses and bottlebrush squirreltail. Other important grasses include Sandberg bluegrass and blue grama. Patches of annuals such as cheatgrass and other weedy annual forbs such as halogeton, Russian thistle, and kochia, will persist on this site. Noxious weeds such as Russian knapweed may also remain if not treated. The interspaces between plants will have diminished in size. When compared with the HCPC or the Mixed Shrub/ Perennial Grass Plant Communities, the annual production is similar, but the species are clearly unique as salt tolerant species are still present.
The total annual production (air-dry weight) of this state is about 650 pounds per acre, but it can range from about 400 lbs./acre in unfavorable years to about 800 lbs./acre in above average years.
This plant community is mostly resistant to change, but species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. The herbaceous component is stable and plant vigor and replacement capabilities are sufficient. The biotic community is not intact because of the predominant salt tolerant shrub overstory and the lack of cool-season climax grasses. Plant diversity is moderate
Soils are mostly stable and recent soil loss is minimal. The remnant evidence of erosion should not be confused with current erosion processes. Water flow patterns and litter movement is stable but is still occurring on steeper slopes. Incidence of pedestalling is improving. The watershed may or may not be functioning
Transitions or pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows:
• Frequent and severe grazing will convert the plant community to the Salt Tolerant Shrub/Bare Ground Plant Community.
• Recovery to near Historic Climax Plant Community condition is difficult to impossible due to the resistance of these shrubs to herbicides and other brush management techniques. In addition, the increase in surface salts has had accumulated effects on the soil so most of the herbaceous plants associated with the HCPC are no longer suitable for this site. The most notable exception is the rhizomatous wheatgrasses and bottlebrush squirreltail. Soil remediation to reduce the surface salts is not recommended, as this is mostly ineffective and extremely costly. Seeding more salt-tolerant grasses and forbs will improve the productivity of the site and plant cover, but will not improve the biotic integrity.Figure 13. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). WY0701 , 10-14E upland sites.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 5 25 40 10 5 10 5 Additional community tables
Table 5. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 80–200 Indian ricegrass ACHY Achnatherum hymenoides 80–200 – 2 80–160 Montana wheatgrass ELAL7 Elymus albicans 80–160 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 80–160 – 3 80–200 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 80–200 – 4 40–80 muttongrass POFE Poa fendleriana 40–80 – 5 0–80 squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 0–80 – 6 0–80 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–80 – 7 40–80 Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 0–40 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–40 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–40 – spike fescue LEKI2 Leucopoa kingii 0–40 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 0–40 – Forb8 0–80 Forb, perennial 2FP Forb, perennial 0–40 – Indian paintbrush CASTI2 Castilleja 0–40 – tapertip hawksbeard CRAC2 Crepis acuminata 0–40 – larkspur DELPH Delphinium 0–40 – threadleaf fleabane ERFI2 Erigeron filifolius 0–40 – parsnipflower buckwheat ERHE2 Eriogonum heracleoides 0–40 – fleabane ERIGE2 Erigeron 0–40 – cous biscuitroot LOCO4 Lomatium cous 0–40 – desertparsley LOMAT Lomatium 0–40 – lupine LUPIN Lupinus 0–40 – leafy wildparsley MUDI Musineon divaricatum 0–40 – phlox PHLOX Phlox 0–40 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 0–40 – American vetch VIAM Vicia americana 0–40 – Shrub/Vine9 80–160 Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–40 – birdfoot sagebrush ARPE6 Artemisia pedatifida 0–40 – big sagebrush ARTR2 Artemisia tridentata 0–40 – Gardner's saltbush ATGA Atriplex gardneri 0–40 – rubber rabbitbrush ERNA10 Ericameria nauseosa 0–40 – winterfat KRASC Krascheninnikovia 0–40 – bud sagebrush PIDE4 Picrothamnus desertorum 0–40 – greasewood SAVE4 Sarcobatus vermiculatus 0–40 – Table 6. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 7. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 8. Community 4.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 9. Community 5.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 10. Community 6.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Interpretations
Animal community
Animal Community – Wildlife Interpretations
Indian Ricegrass/Rhizomatous Wheatgrasses (HCPC): The predominance of grasses in this plant community favors grazers and mixed-feeders, such as bison, elk, and antelope. Suitable thermal and escape cover for deer may be limited due to the low quantities of woody plants. However, topographical variations could provide some escape cover. When found adjacent to sagebrush dominated states, this plant community may provide brood rearing/foraging areas for sage grouse, as well as lek sites. Other birds that would frequent this plant community include Western meadowlarks, horned larks, and golden eagles. Many grassland obligate small mammals would occur here.
Perennial Grass/Mixed Shrub Plant Community: The combination of an overstory of sagebrush and an understory of grasses and forbs provides a very diverse plant community for wildlife. The crowns of sagebrush tend to break up hard crusted snow on winter ranges, so mule deer and antelope may use this state for foraging and cover year-round, as would cottontail and jack rabbits. It provides important winter, nesting, brood-rearing, and foraging habitat for sage grouse. Brewer’s sparrows nest in big sagebrush plants, and a host of other nesting birds utilize stands in the 20-30% cover range.
Mixed Shrub/Bare Ground Plant Community: This plant community can provide important winter foraging for elk, mule deer and antelope, as sagebrush can approach 15% protein and 40-60% digestibility during that time. This community provides excellent escape and thermal cover for large ungulates, as well as nesting habitat for sage grouse.
Blue Grama Sod Plant Community: These communities provide limited foraging for antelope and other grazers. They may be used as a foraging site by sage grouse if proximal to woody cover and if the Historic Climax Plant Community or the Perennial Grass/Mixed Shrub Plant Community is limited. Generally, these are not target plant communities for wildlife habitat management.
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Bare Ground Plant Community: This plant community exhibits a low level of plant species diversity due to the accumulation of salts near the soil surface. It may provide some thermal and escape cover for deer and antelope if no other woody community is nearby, but in most cases, it is not a desirable plant community to select as a wildlife habitat management objective.
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Rhizomatous Wheatgrass Plant Community: The combination of an overstory of shrubs and an understory of grasses and forbs provide a very diverse plant community for wildlife. The crowns of the shrubs tend to break up hard crusted snow on winter ranges, so mule deer and antelope may use this state for foraging and cover year-round, as would cottontail and jack rabbits. It provides important winter, nesting, brood-rearing, and foraging habitat for sage grouse. Brewer’s sparrows’ nest in big sagebrush plants and hosts of other nesting birds utilize stands in the 20-30% cover range.
Animal Community – Grazing Interpretations
The following table lists suggested stocking rates for cattle under continuous season-long grazing under normal growing conditions. These are conservative estimates that should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of the conservation planning process. Often, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ecological site description). Because of this, a field visit is recommended, in all cases, to document plant composition and production. More precise carrying capacity estimates should eventually be calculated using this information along with animal preference data, particularly when grazers other than cattle are involved. Under more intensive grazing management, improved harvest efficiencies can result in an increased carrying capacity. If distribution problems occur, stocking rates must be reduced to maintain plant health and vigor.
Plant Community Production Carrying Capacity*
(lb./ac) (AUM/ac)
Historic Climax Plant Community 500-1100 .40
Perennial Grass/Mixed Shrub 400-900 .30
Mixed Shrub/Bare ground 300-700 .20
Blue Grama Sod 100-300 .10
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Bare Ground 250-550 .13
Salt Tolerant Shrub/Rhizomatous Wheatgrasses 400-800 .22
* - Continuous, season-long grazing by cattle under average growing conditions.
Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage for cattle, sheep, or horses. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock use needs to be supplemented with protein because the quality does not meet minimum livestock requirements.Hydrological functions
Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic group C, with localized areas in hydrologic group D. Infiltration ranges from slow to moderately slow. Runoff potential for this site varies from moderate to high depending on soil hydrologic group and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75% ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. An example of an exception would be where short-grasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Areas where ground cover is less than 50% have the greatest potential to have reduced infiltration and higher runoff (refer to Part 630, NRCS National Engineering Handbook for detailed hydrologic information).
Rills and gullies should not typically be present. Water flow patterns should be barely distinguishable if at all present. Pedestals are only slightly present in association with bunchgrasses. Litter typically falls in place, and signs of movement are not common. Chemical and physical crusts are rare to non-existent. Cryptogamic crusts are present, but only cover 1-2% of the soil surface.Recreational uses
This site provides hunting opportunities for upland game species. The wide variety of plants which bloom from spring until fall have an esthetic value that appeals to visitors.
Wood products
No appreciable wood products are present on the site.
Other products
none noted
Supporting information
Inventory data references
Information presented in the original site description was derived from NRCS inventory data. Field observations from range trained personnel were also used. Those involved in developing the original site include: Chris Krassin, Range Management Specialist, NRCS and Everet Bainter, Range Management Specialist. Other sources used as references include USDA NRCS Water and Climate Center, USDA NRCS National Range and Pasture Handbook, USDI and USDA Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health Version 3, and USDA NRCS Soil Surveys from various counties. Information presented here has been derived from NRCS inventory data, Field observations from range trained personnel, and the existing range site descriptions. Those involved in developing the Loamy range site include: Chris Krassin, Range Management Specialist, NRCS and Everet Bainter, Range Management Specialist. Those involved in the development of the new concept for Loamy and Loamy Calcareous Ecological site include: Ray Gullion, Area Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Jim Wolf, Resource Manager, USDI-BLM; Jack Mononi, Range Management Specialist, USDI-BLM; Daniel Wood, MLRA Soil Survey Leader, NRCS; Jane Karinen, Soil Data Quality Specialist, NRCS; and Marji Patz, Ecological Site Specialist, NRCS. Inventory Data References: Ocular field estimations observed by trained personnel were completed at each site. Then sites were selected where a 100 foot tape was stretched and the following sample procedures were completed by inventory staff. For full sampling protocol and guidelines with forms please refer to the Wyoming ESI Operating Procedures, compiled in 2012 for the Powell and Rock Springs Soil Survey Office, USDA-NRCS. • Double Sampling Production Data (9.6 hoop used to estimate 10 points, clipped a minimum of 3 of these estimated points, with two 21 foot X 21 foot square extended shrub plots). • Line Point Intercept (over story and understory captured with soil cover). Height of herbaceous and woody cover is collected every three feet along established transect.) • Continuous Line Intercept (Woody Canopy Cover, with minimum gap of 0.2 of a foot for all woody species and succulents. Intercept height collected at each measurement.), • Gap Intercept (Basal Gap measured with a minimum gap requirement of 0.7 foot.), • Sample Point (10 – 1 meter square point photographs taken at set distances on transect. Red using the sample point computer program established by the High Plains Agricultural Research Center, WY). • Soil Stability (Slake Test – surface and subsurface samples collected and processed according to the soil stability guidelines provided by the Jornada Research Center, NM.)
Other references
Baker, William L. 2006. Fire and Restoration of Sagebrush Ecosystems. Wildlife Society Bulletin 34(1): 177-185.
Bestelmeyer, B., and J. R. Brown. 2005. State-and-transition models 101: a fresh look at vegetation change. The Quivira Coalition Newsletter, Vol. 7, No. 3.
Bestelmeyer, B., J. R. Brown, K. M. Havstad, B. Alexander, G. Chavez, J. E. Herrick. 2003. Development and use of state and transition models for rangelands. Journal of Range Management 56(2):114-126.
Bestelmeyer, B., J. E. Herrick, J. R. Brown, D. A. Trujillo, and K. M. Havstad. 2004. Land management in the American Southwest: a state-and-transition approach to ecosystem complexity. Environmental Management 34(1):38-51.
Herrick, J. E., J. W. Van Zee, K. M. Havstad, L. M. Burkett, and W. G. Whitford. 2005. Monitoring manual for grassland, shrubland and savanna Ecosystems. Volume I Quick Start. USDA - ARS Jornada Experimental Range, Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Herrick, J. E., J. W. Van Zee, K. M. Havstad, L. M. Burkett, and W. G. Whitford. 2005. Monitoring manual for grassland, shrubland and savanna Ecosystems. Volume II: Design, supplementary methods and interpretation. USDA - ARS Jornada Experimental Range, Las Cruces, New Mexico.
NRCS. 2014. (electronic) National Water and Climate Center. Available online at http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/
NRCS. 2014. (electronic) Field Office Technical Guide. Available online at http://efotg.nrcs.usda.gov/efotg_locator.aspx?map=WY NRCS. 2009. Plant Guide: Cheatgrass. Prepared by Skinner et al., National Plant Data Center.
Pellant, M., P. Shaver, D. A. Pyke, and J. E. Herrick. 2005. Interpreting indicators of rangeland health. Version 4. Technical Reference 1734-6. USDI-BLM. Ricketts, M. J., R. S. Noggles, and B. Landgraf-Gibbons. 2004. Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range Survey and Assessment. USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Schoeneberger, P. J., D. A. Wysocki, E. C. Benham, and Soil Survey Staff. 2012. Field book for describing and sampling soils, Version 3.0. Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Soil Survey Center, Lincoln, NE. (http://soils.usda.gov/technical/fieldbook/)
Stringham, T. K. and W. C. Krueger. 2001. States, transitions, and thresholds: Further refinement for rangeland applications. Agricultural Experiment Station, Oregon State University. Special Report 1024.
Stringham, T. K., W. C. Kreuger, and P. L Shaver. 2003. State and transition modeling: an ecological process approach. Journal of Range Management 56(2):106-113.
United States Department of Agriculture. Soil Survey Division Staff. 1993. Soil Survey Manual, United States Department of Agriculture Handbook No. 18, Chapter 3: Examination and Description of Soils. Pg.192-196.
USDA, NRCS. 1997. National Range and Pasture Handbook. (http://www.glti.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/publications/nrph.html)
Trlica, M. J. 1999. Grass growth and response to grazing. Colorado State University. Cooperative Extension. Range. Natural Resource Series. No. 6.108.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA/NRCS). 2007. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov). National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA/NRCS), Soil Survey Staff. 2010. Keys to Soil Taxonomy, Eleventh Edition, 2010.
USDA/NRCS Soil survey manuals for appropriate counties within MLRA 32X.
Western Regional Climate Center. (2014) (electronic) Station Metadata. Available online at: http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/summary/climsmwy.html.Contributors
Dan Mattke, Resource Soil Scientist - Rocky Mountain Area Office
Approval
Kirt Walstad, 3/26/2025
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) Marji Patz, Ray Gullion Contact for lead author marji.patz@wy.usda.gov or 307-271-3130 Date 07/18/2014 Approved by Approval date Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on Annual Production Indicators
-
Number and extent of rills:
Rare to nonexistent. Where present, short and widely spaced. -
Presence of water flow patterns:
Barely observable. -
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Rare to nonexistent. -
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground can range from 10-30%. -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present. -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
Rare to nonexistent. -
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Herbaceous litter expected to move only in small amounts (to leeward side of shrubs). Large woody debris from sagebrush will show no movement. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Soil Stability Index ratings range from 1 (interspaces) to 6 (under plant canopy), but average values should be 3.0 or greater. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Soil data is limited for this site. Described A-horizons vary from 1-12 inches (3-30 cm) with OM of 1 to 2%. -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
The plant community consists of 60-75% grasses, 10% forbs and 15-30% shrubs. Evenly distributed plant canopy (35-55%) and litter plus moderate to moderately rapid infiltration rates result in minimal runoff. Basal cover is typically less than 8% for this site and does very little to effect runoff on this site. -
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
None -
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:
Mid-stature, cool-season bunchgrassesSub-dominant:
perennial shrubs = cool-season rhizomatous grassesOther:
perennial forbs short-stature cool-season bunchgrassesAdditional:
-
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Minimal decadence, typically associated with shrub component of the canopy cover. -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
Litter ranges from 20-45% of total canopy measurement with total litter (including beneath the plant canopy) from 35-85% expected. Herbaceous litter depth typicall -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
English: 350 - 1125 lbs/ac (650 lbs/ac average); Metric: 392 - 1262 kg/ha (729 kg/ha average). -
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:
The increase of bare ground above 35% is an indicator that a threshold is being crossed. Corresponding increase will be noted in one or more of the following species is common: Blue grama, Sandberg bluegrass, Wyoming big sagebrush, buckwheats, and Spiny phlox. Annual weeds such as kochia, mustards, Lambsquarter, Russian thistle, and pepperweeds are common invasive species in disturbed sites. Common noxious weeds that invade are: Cheatgrass (Downy brome), knapweeds, thistles (Bull, Canada), Houndstongue, Black henbane and Whitetop. -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All species are capable of reproducing, except in drought years.
Print Options
Sections
Font
AAAAOther
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.
Accessibility statement
