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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.
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Figure 1. Mapped extent
Areas shown in blue indicate the maximum mapped extent of this ecological site. Other ecological sites likely occur within the highlighted areas. It is also possible for this ecological site to occur outside of highlighted areas if detailed soil survey has not been completed or recently updated.
Classification relationships
Level IV Ecoregions of the Conterminous United States: 42e – Southern Missouri Coteau, 42f – Southern Missouri Coteau Slope, 46n – James River Lowland.
Associated sites
R055CY010SD Loamy
R055CY011SD Clayey
R055CY012SD Thin Upland
Similar sites
R055CY011SD Clayey
(R055CY011SD) – Clayey [less big bluestem; higher production]
R055CY012SD Thin Upland
(R055CY012SD) – Thin Upland [more little bluestem, more needleandthread, and porcupine grass]
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub Not specified
Herbaceous (1) Nassella viridula
(2) Andropogon gerardiiPhysiographic features
This site occurs on moderately to steeply sloping uplands.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Hill
(2) Ridge
Flooding frequency None Ponding frequency None Elevation 1300 – 2000 ft Slope 9 – 35 % Water table depth 80 in Aspect Aspect is not a significant factor Climatic features
MLRA 55C is considered to have a continental climate – cold winters and hot summers, low humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature may also abound. The climate is the result of this MLRA’s location near the geographic center of North America. There are few natural barriers on the Northern Great Plains and air masses move freely across the plains and account for rapid changes in temperature.
Annual precipitation typically ranges from 19 to 25 inches per year. The average annual temperature is about 47°F. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from about 15°F (Howard, South Dakota (SD)), to about 20°F (Wagner, SD). July is the warmest month with temperatures averaging from about 73°F (Howard, SD), to about 77°F (Wagner, SD). The range of normal average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 58°F. This large annual range attests to the continental nature of this area's climate. Hourly winds are estimated to average about 12 miles per hour (mph) annually, ranging from about 13 mph during the spring to about 11 mph during the summer. Daytime winds are generally stronger than nighttime and occasional strong storms may bring brief periods of high winds with gusts to more than 50 mph.
Growth of cool-season plants begins in early to mid-March, slowing or ceasing in late June. Warm-season plants begin growth about mid-May and continue to early or mid-September. Greenup of cool-season plants may occur in September and October when adequate soil moisture is present.Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (average) 160 days Freeze-free period (average) 180 days Precipitation total (average) 30 in BarLineFigure 2. Monthly precipitation range
BarLineFigure 3. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
">Influencing water features
No riparian areas or wetland features are directly associated with this site.
Soil features
The soils in this site are well-drained and formed in clayey residuum weathered from shale. The clay to surface layer is about four inches thick. The bedrock which occurs at 13 to 16 inches is impervious shale which is virtually impenetrable to plant roots. The soils have a very slow infiltration rate. This site may show slight evidence of rills, wind scoured areas, and/or pedestalled plants. Water flow paths are broken, irregular in appearance, or discontinuous with numerous debris dams or vegetative barriers. Some amount of erosion is occasionally present on this site even in the Reference State.
These soils are mainly susceptible to water erosion. The hazard of water erosion increases on slopes greater than about 15 percent. Wind erosion can also be a hazard when vigor of plants is reduced due to stress from grazing or prolonged periods of below average precipitation. Low available water capacity and very slow permeability strongly influences the soil-water-plant relationship.
Access Web Soil Survey (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/HomePage.htm) for specific local soils information.Table 4. Representative soil features
Parent material (1) Residuum – calcareous shale
Surface texture (1) Clay
Family particle size (1) Clayey
Drainage class Well drained Permeability class Very slow to very rapid Soil depth 10 – 20 in Surface fragment cover <=3" 0 – 2 % Surface fragment cover >3" Not specified Available water capacity
(0-40in)1 – 2 in Calcium carbonate equivalent
(0-40in)0 – 10 % Electrical conductivity
(0-40in)0 – 2 mmhos/cm Sodium adsorption ratio
(0-40in)0 – 1 Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-40in)6.6 – 8.4 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(Depth not specified)0 – 4 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(Depth not specified)Not specified Ecological dynamics
This site developed under Northern Great Plains climatic conditions, light to severe grazing by bison and other large herbivores, sporadic natural or man-caused wildfire (often of light intensities), and other biotic and abiotic factors that typically influence soil/site development. Changes will occur in the plant communities due to short-term weather variations, impacts of native and/or exotic plant and animal species, and management actions. While the following plant community descriptions describe more typical transitions that will occur, severe disturbances, such as periods of well below average precipitation, can cause significant shifts in plant communities and/or species composition.
Continuous season-long grazing (during the typical growing season of May through October) and/or repeated seasonal grazing (e.g., every spring, every summer) without adequate recovery periods following each grazing occurrence causes this site to depart from the Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community. Sedge and other short grasses will increase and eventually develop into a sod. Little bluestem will increase initially and then begin to decrease. Green needlegrass, needleandthread, porcupine grass, sideoats grama, big bluestem, and western wheatgrass will decrease in frequency and production. Extended periods of nonuse and/or lack of fire will result in excessive litter and a plant community dominated by cool-season grasses such as western wheatgrass, bluegrass, smooth bromegrass, and cheatgrass.
Interpretations are primarily based on the Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community (1.1). It has been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, areas protected from excessive disturbance, and areas under long-term rotational grazing regimes. Trends in plant community dynamics ranging from heavily grazed to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts also have been used. Plant community phases, states, transitional pathways, and thresholds have been determined through similar studies and experience.
The following is a diagram that illustrates the common plant community phases that can occur on the site and the transition pathways between communities. These are the most common plant community phases based on current knowledge and experience and changes may be made as more data is collected. Narratives following the diagram contain more detail pertaining to the ecological processes.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 1
ReferenceThis state represents the natural range of variability that dominates the dynamics of this ecological site (ES). This state is codominated by cool- and warm-season grasses. In pre-European times, the primary disturbance mechanisms for this site in the reference condition included frequent fire and grazing by large herding ungulates. Timing of fires and grazing coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. Today, this state can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. The dominant cool- and warm-season species can decline and a corresponding increase in short-statured species will occur.
Community 1.1
Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western WheatgrassInterpretations are based primarily on the Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community Phase (this is also considered to be climax). The potential vegetation is about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, 8 percent shrubs, and 2 percent trees. The community is codominated by cool- and warm-season grasses. The major grasses include western wheatgrass, big bluestem, green needlegrass, sideoats grama, and little bluestem. Other grass and grass-like species include needleandthread, porcupine grass, blue grama, buffalograss, and sedges. This plant community is resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allows for high drought tolerance. This is a sustainable plant community in regards to site/soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 4. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 5. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 1260 1903 2505 Forb 100 165 250 Shrub/Vine 40 110 200 Tree 0 22 45 Total 1400 2200 3000 Figure 5. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6303 , Pierre Shale Plains, cool/warm-season codominant.. Cool-season, warm-season codominant..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 3 10 20 28 21 10 5 3 0 0 Community 1.2
Western Wheatgrass/Buffalograss/GramaThis plant community developed under continuous seasonal grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 83 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, 5 percent shrubs, and 2 percent trees. Dominant grasses include western wheatgrass, buffalograss, blue grama, and sideoats grama. Grasses of secondary importance include sedge, green needlegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall dropseed. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include cudweed sagewort, goldenrod, and western ragweed. When compared to the Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community Phase (1.1), blue grama and buffalograss have increased. Needlegrasses and tall warm-season grasses have decreased and production has also been reduced. This plant community is moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component is intact, it tends to be resilient if the disturbance is not long-term.
Figure 6. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 6. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 705 1320 1820 Forb 70 113 165 Shrub/Vine 25 52 80 Tree 0 15 35 Total 800 1500 2100 Figure 7. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6303 , Pierre Shale Plains, cool/warm-season codominant.. Cool-season, warm-season codominant..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 3 10 20 28 21 10 5 3 0 0 Pathway 1.1a
Community 1.1 to 1.2Continuous seasonal grazing which includes grazing at moderate to heavy stocking levels at the same time of year each year or a combination of disturbances such as extended periods of below average precipitation coupled with periodic heavy grazing will shift this community to the 1.2 Western Wheatgrass/Buffalograss/Grama Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 1.2a
Community 1.2 to 1.1Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 1.1 Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing State 2
Shortgrass SodCommunity 2.1
Sedge/Grama/Buffalograss SodThis plant community evolved under heavy continuous season-long grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 82 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, 6 percent shrubs, and 2 percent trees. Dominant grass and grass-like species include sedge, buffalograss, blue grama, and sideoats grama. Grasses of secondary importance include needleandthread, bluegrass, annual bromegrass, and smooth bromegrass. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include cudweed sagewort, goldenrod, and sweet clover. When compared to the Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community Phase (1.1), short-statured species are dominant on this plant community. Tall/mid cool- and warm-season grasses have decreased significantly. This vegetation state is very resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, composition can be altered through long-term prescribed grazing.
This plant community is less productive than most other phases. The thick sod prevents other species from getting established. Lack of litter and reduced plant vigor causes higher soil temperatures, poor water infiltration rates, and high evapotranspiration which give the short-statured species a competitive advantage. Soil erosion will be minimal due to the sod forming habit of dominant species in this phase.Figure 8. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 7. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 445 788 1230 Forb 40 68 95 Shrub/Vine 15 35 55 Tree 0 9 20 Total 500 900 1400 Figure 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6303 , Pierre Shale Plains, cool/warm-season codominant.. Cool-season, warm-season codominant..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 3 10 20 28 21 10 5 3 0 0 State 3
Increased Tree CanopyThis state consists of areas where tree canopy increases to a level that impedes the reproductive capability of the major native perennial grass species. The increase in tree canopy is a result of a disruption of the natural historic fire regime that kept the trees at an immature stage.
Community 3.1
ConiferThis plant community develops under non-use, no fire, and encroachment by eastern redcedar, Rocky Mountain juniper, and/or occasionally deciduous trees such as bur oak. These species expand on this site due to suppression of fire. The tree canopy is 15 percent or greater. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 48 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, 7 percent shrubs, and 35 percent trees. Dominant grasses and grass-likes include western wheatgrass, green needlegrass, Canada wildrye, sideoats grama, little bluestem, and sedges. As the canopy increases, warm-season grasses tend to decrease as the cool-season grasses initially increase. Forbs commonly found in this community include cudweed sagewort, goldenrod, and sweetclover. Nonnative species such as annual bromegrasses and bluegrass will tend to invade.
Compared to the Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community Phase (1.1), juniper increases significantly. The grass component decreases dramatically as the buildup of juniper needles increases. Annual herbaceous production also decreases significantly. While the juniper canopy provides excellent protection from the weather for both livestock and wildlife, it is not capable of supporting large numbers of wildlife and livestock due to decreased production. A significant reduction of juniper can be accomplished through timber harvest or crown fire. The vegetation in the understory is capable of enduring fire; however, very hot crown fires will have a detrimental effect to the plant community.Figure 10. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 8. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(lb/acre)Representative value
(lb/acre)High
(lb/acre)Grass/Grasslike 525 882 955 Tree 185 350 585 Forb 65 105 155 Shrub/Vine 25 63 105 Total 800 1400 1800 Figure 11. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6311 , Pierre Shale Plains, heavy conifer canopy.. Mature eastern redcedar overstory..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 1 3 7 11 24 27 12 5 4 3 2 1 State 4
InvadedThis state is the result of invasion and dominance of introduced species. This state is characterized by the dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass and an increasing thatch layer that effectively blocks introduction of other plants into the system. Plant litter accumulation tends to favor the more shade tolerant introduced grass species. The nutrient cycle is also impaired and the result is typically a higher level of nitrogen which also favors the introduced species. Increasing plant litter decreases the amount of sunlight reaching plant crowns thereby shifting competitive advantage to shade tolerant introduced grass species. Studies indicate that soil biological activity is altered, and this shift apparently exploits the soil microclimate and encourages growth of the introduced grass species. Once the threshold is crossed, a change in grazing management alone cannot cause a reduction in the invasive grass dominance. Preliminary studies would tend to indicate this threshold may exist when Kentucky bluegrass exceeds 30 percent of the plant community and native grasses represent less than 40 percent of the plant community composition.
Community 4.1
Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky BluegrassThis plant community phase is a result of extended periods of nonuse and no fire. It is characterized by a dominance of smooth bromegrass and Kentucky bluegrass. The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A thick duff layer may also accumulate at or above the soil surface. Nutrient cycling is greatly reduced and native plants have great difficulty becoming established. When dominated by smooth bromegrass, infiltration is moderately reduced and runoff is moderate. Production can be equal to or higher than the interpretive plant community. However, when dominated by Kentucky bluegrass, infiltration is greatly reduced and runoff is high. Production in this case will likely be significantly less. In either case, the period that palatability is high is relatively short, as these cool-season species mature rapidly. Energy capture is also reduced.
Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6301 , Pierre Shale Plains, cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant on uplands..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 4 12 25 36 10 5 4 4 0 0 Community 4.2
Annual/Pioneer PerennialThis plant community evolved under heavy continuous season-long grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 50 to 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 to 25 percent forbs, and 5 to 25 percent shrubs and trees. The dominant species are highly variable in this phase, often consisting of invasive species such as annual bromegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and invasive forbs. Other plant species, from adjacent ecological sites, can become minor components of this plant community. This plant community is susceptible to invasion of Canada thistle and other nonnative species because of the relatively high percent of bare ground.
Compared to the Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community Phase (1.1), annual bromegrass, invasive forbs, and percent of bare ground have increased. Western wheatgrass, needlegrasses and other cool-season grasses and grass-like species have decreased as have the warm-season species including big bluestem, sideoats grama, little bluestem, plains muhly, and prairie dropseed. Plant diversity is low (plant richness may be high, but areas are often dominated by a few species).
The ecological processes are difficult to restore because of the loss of plant diversity and overall soil disturbance. Soil erosion is potentially very high because of the bare ground and shallow rooted herbaceous plant community. Water runoff will increase and infiltration will decrease due to animal related soil compaction and loss of root mass due to low plant diversity and vigor.
This plant community will require significant economic inputs and time to move towards another plant community. This movement is highly variable in its succession. This is due to the loss of diversity (including the loss of the seed bank), within the existing plant community, and the plant communities on adjacent sites. This community can be renovated to improve the production capability, however if management changes are not made the vegetation could revert back to a threeawn/annual community.Figure 13. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6301 , Pierre Shale Plains, cool-season dominant.. Cool-season dominant on uplands..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 4 12 25 36 10 5 4 4 0 0 Pathway 4.1a
Community 4.1 to 4.2Heavy continuous seasonal grazing (stocking levels well above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season and at the same time of year each year) or heavy continuous season-long grazing will convert this plant community to the 4.2 Annual/Pioneer Perennial Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 4.2a
Community 4.2 to 4.1Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 4.1 Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Transition T1b
State 1 to 2Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 1.1 Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass Plant Community Phase.
Transition T1b
State 1 to 3No fire for extended periods of time will lead the Reference State (State 1) across a threshold resulting in the Increased Tree Canopy State (State 3). This transition also requires the presence of eastern redcedar and/or Rocky Mountain juniper, or other trees that can increase on this site. It is a result of a disruption of the natural historic fire regime that occurred in the past.
Transition T1c
State 1 to 4Non-use and no fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years) will likely lead this state over a threshold resulting in the 4.1 Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 4).
Restoration pathway R2
State 2 to 1Long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Reference State (State 1). This will likely take a long period of time, possibly up to 10 years or more, and recovery may not be attainable. Under certain circumstances, the harsh conditions created by the shortgrass sod can lead to the elimination of invasive grass species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Transition T2
State 2 to 4Heavy continuous seasonal grazing (stocking levels well above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season, and at the same time of year each year, typically beginning early in the season) or heavy continuous season-long grazing will convert this plant community to the 4.2 Annual/Pioneer Perennial Sod Plant Community Phase and the Invaded State (State 4).
Restoration pathway R3
State 3 to 1Prescribed burning in conjunction with long-term prescribed grazing may lead this plant community across a threshold back to the Reference State (State 1). This would have to take place before the trees reach maturity and are still susceptible to fire and reproductive propagules of the perennial grasses are still present.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Transition T3
State 3 to 4Wildfire that is intense enough to crown and kill mature trees will cause this plant community to cross a threshold and lead to the Invaded State (State 4) and specifically to the Annual/Pioneer Perennial Plant Community Phase (4.2).
Restoration pathway R4
State 4 to 1Long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Reference State (State 1). This will likely take a long period of time, possibly up to 10 years or more, and recovery may not be attainable. Success depends on whether native reproductive propagules remain intact on the site.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Restoration pathway R4
State 4 to 1Long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Reference State (State 1). This will likely take a long period of time, possibly up to 10 years or more, and recovery may not be attainable. Depending on the slope, aspect, and size, and if adequate perennial plants exist, this change can occur more rapidly.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Additional community tables
Table 9. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Cool-Season Bunchgrasses 330–550 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 220–440 – needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 44–220 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 44–220 – Canada wildrye ELCA4 Elymus canadensis 0–110 – 2 Tall Warm-Season Grasses 220–550 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 220–550 – composite dropseed SPCOC2 Sporobolus compositus var. compositus 0–176 – prairie sandreed CALO Calamovilfa longifolia 0–110 – 3 Wheatgrass 220–550 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 220–550 – 4 Mid Warm-Season Grasses 220–440 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 110–330 – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 110–330 – prairie dropseed SPHE Sporobolus heterolepis 0–110 – 5 Short Warm-Season Grasses 22–110 buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 22–110 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 22–110 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 0–66 – 6 Other Native Grasses 22–110 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–110 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 22–66 – 7 Grass-likes 22–110 sedge CAREX Carex 22–110 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–66 – Forb8 Forbs 110–220 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 22–88 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 22–66 – false boneset BREU Brickellia eupatorioides 0–44 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 22–44 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 22–44 – stiff sunflower HEPA19 Helianthus pauciflorus 22–44 – dotted blazing star LIPU Liatris punctata 22–44 – Nuttall's sensitive-briar MINU6 Mimosa nuttallii 0–44 – beardtongue PENST Penstemon 0–44 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 22–44 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 22–44 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 22–44 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 22–44 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 0–22 – American bird's-foot trefoil LOUNU Lotus unifoliolatus var. unifoliolatus 0–22 – lacy tansyaster MAPI Machaeranthera pinnatifida 0–22 – milkweed ASCLE Asclepias 0–22 – textile onion ALTE Allium textile 0–22 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–22 – alpine golden buckwheat ERFLF Eriogonum flavum var. flavum 0–22 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 44–176 leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 22–88 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–66 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–44 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 22–44 – western snowberry SYOC Symphoricarpos occidentalis 22–44 – soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 22–44 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 0–22 – Tree10 Trees 0–44 Tree 2TREE Tree 0–44 – Rocky Mountain juniper JUSC2 Juniperus scopulorum 0–44 – eastern redcedar JUVI Juniperus virginiana 0–44 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–44 – Table 10. Community 1.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Cool-Season Bunchgrasses 30–150 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–150 – needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–45 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 0–45 – 2 Tall Warm-Season Grasses 0–150 composite dropseed SPCOC2 Sporobolus compositus var. compositus 0–150 – big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–75 – 3 Wheatgrass 225–450 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 225–450 – 4 Mid Warm-Season Grasses 30–150 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 30–150 – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 0–75 – 5 Short Warm-Season Grasses 75–300 buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 30–225 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 15–120 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 15–120 – 6 Other Native Grasses 15–75 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–75 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 15–45 – 7 Grass-likes 30–150 sedge CAREX Carex 30–150 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–75 – 8 Non-Native Grasses 30–150 bluegrass POA Poa 30–150 – brome BROMU Bromus 0–75 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–30 – Forb9 Forbs 75–150 sweetclover MELIL Melilotus 0–150 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 0–75 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–45 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 15–45 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 15–45 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 15–45 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 15–30 – field pennycress THAR5 Thlaspi arvense 0–30 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 0–30 – common pepperweed LEDE Lepidium densiflorum 0–30 – dotted blazing star LIPU Liatris punctata 0–15 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–15 – milkweed ASCLE Asclepias 0–15 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 0–15 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 0–15 – Shrub/Vine10 Shrubs 30–75 Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–45 – soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 15–45 – western snowberry SYOC Symphoricarpos occidentalis 15–30 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 0–30 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–30 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–15 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–15 – Tree11 Trees 0–30 Tree 2TREE Tree 0–30 – Rocky Mountain juniper JUSC2 Juniperus scopulorum 0–30 – eastern redcedar JUVI Juniperus virginiana 0–30 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–30 – Table 11. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Cool-Season Bunchgrasses 9–63 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–54 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 0–27 – green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–27 – 2 Wheatgrass 0–45 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–45 – 3 Mid Warm-Season Grasses 0–45 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–45 – 4 Short Warm-Season Grasses 9–90 buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 0–63 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–45 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 0–45 – 5 Other Native Grasses 9–45 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–45 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 9–27 – 6 Grass-likes 135–360 sedge CAREX Carex 135–360 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–72 – 7 Non-Native Grasses 90–270 bluegrass POA Poa 45–225 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–90 – brome BROMU Bromus 9–90 – Forb8 Forbs 45–90 sweetclover MELIL Melilotus 0–72 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 0–45 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–27 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 9–27 – common pepperweed LEDE Lepidium densiflorum 0–27 – field pennycress THAR5 Thlaspi arvense 0–27 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 9–18 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 9–18 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 9–18 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 0–9 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 0–9 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 18–54 western snowberry SYOC Symphoricarpos occidentalis 9–36 – soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 9–36 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–27 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 0–27 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–9 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–9 – Tree10 Trees 0–18 Tree 2TREE Tree 0–18 – Rocky Mountain juniper JUSC2 Juniperus scopulorum 0–18 – eastern redcedar JUVI Juniperus virginiana 0–18 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–18 – Table 12. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Cool-Season Bunchgrasses 28–210 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 14–210 – Canada wildrye ELCA4 Elymus canadensis 14–140 – needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–70 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 0–70 – 2 Wheatgrass 28–280 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 28–280 – 3 Mid Warm-Season Grasses 28–140 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 14–112 – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 14–112 – 4 Short Warm-Season Grasses 0–70 sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 0–70 – buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 0–56 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–42 – 5 Other Native Grasses 14–70 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–70 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 14–42 – 6 Grass-likes 14–70 sedge CAREX Carex 14–70 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–42 – 7 Non-Native Grasses 0–70 brome BROMU Bromus 0–70 – bluegrass POA Poa 0–70 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–42 – Forb8 Forbs 70–140 sweetclover MELIL Melilotus 0–70 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 14–42 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 0–42 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–42 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 14–42 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 14–28 – common pepperweed LEDE Lepidium densiflorum 0–28 – field pennycress THAR5 Thlaspi arvense 0–28 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 0–28 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 14–28 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–28 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 0–28 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 0–14 – alpine golden buckwheat ERFLF Eriogonum flavum var. flavum 0–14 – dotted blazing star LIPU Liatris punctata 0–14 – American bird's-foot trefoil LOUNU Lotus unifoliolatus var. unifoliolatus 0–14 – lacy tansyaster MAPI Machaeranthera pinnatifida 0–14 – milkweed ASCLE Asclepias 0–14 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–14 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 28–98 Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–42 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 14–42 – western snowberry SYOC Symphoricarpos occidentalis 14–42 – soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 0–28 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–28 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–14 – plains pricklypear OPPO Opuntia polyacantha 0–14 – Tree10 Trees 210–490 Rocky Mountain juniper JUSC2 Juniperus scopulorum 0–490 – eastern redcedar JUVI Juniperus virginiana 0–490 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–280 – Tree 2TREE Tree 0–140 – Table 13. Community 4.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 14. Community 4.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Interpretations
Animal community
The following table lists annual, suggested initial stocking rates with average growing conditions. These are conservative estimates that should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of conservation planning. Often, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ES description). Because of this, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. More accurate carrying capacity estimates should eventually be calculated using the following stocking rate information along with animal preference data and actual stocking records, particularly when grazers other than cattle are involved. With consultation of the land manager, more intensive grazing management may result in improved harvest efficiencies and increased carrying capacity.
Needlegrass/Bluestem/Western Wheatgrass (1.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,200
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.60
Western Wheatgrass/Buffalograss/Grama (1.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.41
Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky Bluegrass (4.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,000
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.55
Sedge/Grama/Buffalograss Sod (2.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 900
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.25
*Based on 912 lbs./acre (air-dry weight) per Animal Unit Month (AUM) and on 25 percent harvest efficiency (refer to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Range and Pasture Handbook).
Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock will likely be lacking protein to meet livestock requirements and added protein will allow ruminants to better utilize the energy stored in grazed plant materials. A forage quality test (either directly or through fecal sampling) should be used to determine the level of supplementation needed.Hydrological functions
Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is typically dominated by soils in hydrologic group D. Infiltration and runoff potential for this site varies from moderate to high depending on soil hydrologic group, slope, and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75 percent ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. An example of an exception would be where shortgrasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Dominance by blue grama, buffalograss, bluegrass, and/or smooth bromegrass will result in reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Areas where ground cover is less than 50 percent have the greatest potential to have reduced infiltration and higher runoff (refer to Section 4, NRCS National Engineering Handbook for runoff quantities and hydrologic curves).
Recreational uses
This site provides hunting, hiking, photography, bird watching, and other opportunities. The wide varieties of plants that bloom from spring until fall have an esthetic value that appeals to visitors.
Wood products
No appreciable wood products are typically present on this site.
Other products
No appreciable wood products are typically present on this site.
Supporting information
Inventory data references
Information presented here has been derived from NRCS clipping data and other inventory data. Field observations from range-trained personnel were also used. Those involved in developing this site include: Stan Boltz, Range Management Specialist, NRCS.
Other references
High Plains Regional Climate Center, University of Nebraska, 830728 Chase Hall, Lincoln, NE 68583-0728. (http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/)
USDA, NRCS. National Water and Climate Center, 101 SW Main, Suite 1600, Portland, OR 97204-3224. (http://wcc.nrcs.usda.gov)
USDA, NRCS. National Range and Pasture Handbook, September 1997
USDA, NRCS. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building A, Fort Collins, CO 80526. (http://nasis.nrcs.usda.gov)
USDA, NRCS. 2001. The PLANTS Database, Version 3.1 (http://plants.usda.gov). National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA.Contributors
Stan Boltz
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) David Schmidt, Tim Nordquist, Stan Boltz Contact for lead author david.schmidt@sd.usda.gov 605-352-1236 Date 12/07/2004 Approved by Approval date Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on Annual Production Indicators
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Number and extent of rills:
Rills should not be present. -
Presence of water flow patterns:
Typically not observable, but sometimes present after heavy storms. -
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Some slight pedestalling of bunch grasses. -
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground less than 10 percent and less than 2 inches in diameter. -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present. -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None. -
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Little to no plant litter movement. Some accumulations (small litter dams) may be present after storm events. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Stability class usually 5-6. Typically high root content, organic matter, and granular structure. Soil surface is resistant to erosion. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Use soil series description for depth and color of A-horizon. -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Healthy, deep rooted native grasses enhance infiltration and reduce runoff. -
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
No compaction layer should be evident. -
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 and tall cool-season bunchgrasses = tall warm-season grasses = mid cool-season rhizomatous grass >Sub-dominant:
Mid warm-season grasses >Other:
Forbs > shrubs > short warm-season grasses = short grass-likes > short cool-season grasses > trees.Additional:
Due to differing root structure and distribution, Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass do not fit into reference plant community F/S groups. -
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Very little to no evidence of decadence or mortality. -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
-
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
1,400–3,000 lbs./acre air-dry weight, average 2,200 lbs./acre air-dry weight. -
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:
Refer to State and Local Noxious Weed List, also Kentucky bluegrass, smooth bromegrass. -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All species are capable of reproducing.
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