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Conservation Service
Ecological site R055DY019SD
Closed Depression
Last updated: 9/30/2026
Accessed: 10/06/2026
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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.
MLRA notes
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 055D–Glacial Lake Dakota
MLRA 55D is in South Dakota (92 percent) and southeastern North Dakota (8 percent). It makes up about 3,059 square miles (7,923 square kilometers). This area, which is part of the glacial till plain region, consists of a large, glacial lake plain that was drained by the James River, which flows southward through the area. The MLRA is dominantly farmland converted from prairie, but some areas of grassland remain. Agricultural drainage practices have impacted shallow depressions in many areas.
MLRA 55D has distinct boundaries. Till plains are on all sides. MLRA 55B borders the area largely to the north and is also between the Lake Dakota Plain and two prominent coteaus—the Missouri Coteau on the west and the Prairie Coteau on the east. To the south is MLRA 55C (Southern Black Glaciated Plains), which has a mesic soil temperature regime.
This area is in the Central Lowland province of the Interior Plains. Elevation ranges from 1,250 to 1,330 feet (380 to 405 meters), generally increasing from south to north. The area is characterized by mostly level to moderately sloping lake plains with many depressions and drainages. Much of the area has integrated drainage; drainage channels are poorly to moderately defined.
The glaciolacustrine sediments of the Lake Dakota Plain range from sandy to clayey and are commonly stratified. Some areas of the lake plain are mantled with wind-deposited materials, which are moderately coarse textured or sandy. Alluvial deposits and low terraces are common along the James River and its major tributaries but also occur in narrow and discontinuous strips along other streams.Classification relationships
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): Southern Black Glaciated Plains (55D) (USDA-NRCS, 2022)
USFS Sub-region: Located mainly within unit 332Bc and 332Ba (Cleland et al., 2007).Ecological site concept
The Closed Depression ecological site typically occurs in slight depressions on nearly level slopes in the upland areas. Soils are poorly drained and may have a claypan (columnar structure) within 6 inches of the soil surface or an abrupt texture change within 12 inches of the soil surface. Permeability is very slow due to the claypan (columnar structure) or the clayey subsoil and the site may pond water 4 to 8 weeks in the spring of the year. Ponded water conditions and very slow permeability and/or a natric horizon strongly influences the soil-water-plant relationship. The natric horizon in the subsoil typically has a Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR) greater than 13 and/or an Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP) greater than 15. Vegetation in the Reference State is co-dominated by cool-season grasses and grasslikes including western wheatgrass and spikerush. Common forbs include American vetch, knotweeds, smartweeds, and western dock. Change in disturbance regime may lead to a Degraded State where foxtail barley and inland saltgrass are common.
Associated sites
R055DY010SD Loamy
These sites occur on upland areas in non-depressional landforms. The soils are well drained and have less than 40 percent clay in the surface and subsoil.
R055DY011SD Clayey
These sites occur on upland areas in non-depressional landforms. The soils are well drained and have greater than 40 percent clay in the surface and subsoil.
R055DY013SD Claypan
These sites occur on uplands in non-depressional landforms. Soils are moderately well drained and have a claypan (columnar structure) between 6 and 16 inches from the soil surface.
Similar sites
R055DY004SD Wet Meadow
The Wet Meadow site occurs in a similar landscape position. It does not have a claypan (columnar structure) within 6 inches of the soil surface or an abrupt texture change within 12 inches of the soil surface. This site may be very poorly drained, and will typically pond water more frequently and for a longer duration than the Closed Depression site. The Wet Meadow site will have more grass-likes and more tall warm-season grasses than a Closed Depression.
R055DY015SD Thin Claypan
The Thin Claypan site occurs in a similar landscape position. It is moderately well drained and has a claypan (columnar structure) within 6 inches of the soil surface. The Thin Claypan site will have less blue grama and lower production than a Closed Depression site.
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub Not specified
Herbaceous (1) Pascopyrum smithii
(2) Hordeum jubatumPhysiographic features
This site typically occurs on nearly level depressions on upland areas of lake plains.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Lake plain > Closed depression
(2) Lake plain > Depression
Runoff class Negligible Flooding frequency None Ponding duration Very brief (4 to 48 hours) to long (7 to 30 days) Ponding frequency Rare to frequent Elevation 381 – 405 m Slope 0 – 1 % Ponding depth 0 – 30 cm Water table depth 0 – 152 cm Aspect Aspect is not a significant factor Climatic features
The average annual precipitation of MLRA 55D is 22 to 23 inches (549 to 594 millimeters). About 75 percent of the rainfall comes from high-intensity, convective thunderstorms during the growing season. Winter precipitation is typically snow. The average annual snowfall is 25 to 50 inches (635 to 1,270 millimeters). Strong winds commonly deposit the snow unevenly across the landscape. The average annual temperature is 43 to 45 degrees F (6 to 7 degrees C). The freeze-free period averages about 135 days and ranges from 120 to 150 days.
Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (characteristic range) 110-120 days Freeze-free period (characteristic range) 130-130 days Precipitation total (characteristic range) 560-580 mm Frost-free period (actual range) 110-120 days Freeze-free period (actual range) 130-130 days Precipitation total (actual range) 560-580 mm Frost-free period (average) 120 days Freeze-free period (average) 130 days Precipitation total (average) 580 mm 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
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(1) COLUMBIA 8 N [USC00391873], Columbia, SD
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(2) ABERDEEN [USW00014929], Aberdeen, SD
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(3) BRITTON [USC00391049], Britton, SD
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(4) ANDOVER #2 [USC00390120], Andover, SD
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(5) CONDE [USC00391917], Conde, SD
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(6) TURTON [USC00398420], Turton, SD
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(7) MELLETTE 4 W [USC00395456], Northville, SD
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(8) REDFIELD [USC00397052], Redfield, SD
">Influencing water features
This site is poorly drained. Areas of this site receive additional water as surface runoff from adjacent uplands. Under average climatic conditions, the soils are rarely to frequently ponded in April and May. Some components are frequently ponded in June and July. Depth of ponding typically is less than 12 inches during these months. In mid and late summer, ponded water commonly is not evident except after heavy rains. <br />
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When not ponded, a seasonal high-water table typically fluctuates with precipitation events between the surface and a depth of 1.5 feet during the months of April through June. In most soils, it is within a depth 3.5 feet through the remainder of the growing season; however, in a few soils it may be as deep as 5 feet in mid- summer.Soil features
The common features of soils in this site are the silty clay to silty clay loam textured subsoil and slopes of 0 to 1 percent. The soils in this site are poorly drained and formed in alluvium and lacustrine sediments. Some soils may include a mantle of glaciolacustrine material over glacial till material. The silt loam surface layer is 2 to 16 inches thick. Some soils exhibit an extremely hard, clayey horizon that has round-topped or bun shaped columnar structure. These horizons are high in sodium., and are commonly referred to as "claypans". In general, the soils have a very slow infiltration rate. Available water capacity is 5 to 6 inches. The soils crack when dry and heavy traffic can cause surface compaction when wet. Subsurface soil layers are restrictive to water movement and root penetration. This site should show slight to no evidence of rills, wind scoured areas, or pedestalled plants. Water flow paths are broken, irregular in appearance, or discontinuous. The soil surface is stable and intact.
Soil series are Borup, Colvin, and Heil.
High accumulations of sodium and slow permeability strongly influence the soil-water-plant relationship on this site. 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) Alluvium
(2) Lacustrine deposits
(3) Glaciolacustrine deposits
Surface texture (1) Silt loam
(2) Silty clay loam
Family particle size (1) Fine
(2) Fine-silty
Drainage class Poorly drained Permeability class Very slow to moderate Soil depth 203 cm Surface fragment cover <=3" 0 – 1 % Surface fragment cover >3" 0 – 1 % Available water capacity
(0-101.6cm)12.7 – 15.24 cm Calcium carbonate equivalent
(0-101.6cm)0 – 15 % Electrical conductivity
(0-101.6cm)2 – 16 mmhos/cm Sodium adsorption ratio
(0-101.6cm)0 – 20 Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-101.6cm)6.6 – 8.4 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(0-101.6cm)0 – 5 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(0-101.6cm)Not specified Ecological dynamics
The ecological dynamics in this ESD are based on concepts from the Closed Depression ESD in MLRA 55C. Future work is needed to quantify and verify these concepts in MLRA 55D.
This site developed under Northern Great Plains climatic conditions, and included natural influence of large herding herbivores and occasional fire. Changes will occur in the plant communities due to weather fluctuations and/or management actions. Under adverse impacts, a relatively rapid decline in vegetative vigor and composition can occur. Under favorable conditions the site has the potential to resemble the Reference State. Interpretations for this site are based primarily on the 1.1 Reference Plant Community Phase. This community phase and the Reference State have 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 considered. Plant community phases, states, transitional pathways, and thresholds have been determined through similar studies and experience.
This site is very sensitive to precipitation fluctuations from year to year. With above average precipitation the site becomes very wet, leading to a much different plant community than what would be present with average to below average precipitation. In dry years, plant density becomes very low. The reference plant community is influenced strongly by precipitation alone. The Western Wheatgrass-Common Spikerush/Pale Dock plant community encompasses this natural fluctuation.
Following the state-and-transition model (STM) are narratives for each of the described states and community phases. These may not represent every possibility, but they are the most prevalent and repeatable states and community phases. The associated plant composition tables have been developed from the best available knowledge at the time of this revision. As more data are collected, some of these community phases and states may be revised or removed, and new ones may be added. The main purpose for including the descriptions here is to capture the current knowledge and experience at the time of this revision.State and transition model
More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective textEcosystem states
T1A - Heavy, continuous grazing; Invasion T1B - Tillage, Cropping R2A - Long-term prescribed grazing, Invasive species control T2A - Tillage, Cropping R3A - Restoration seeding, Cropping and abandonment State 1 submodel, plant communities
1.1A - Heavy, continuous grazing 1.2A - Prescribed Grazing, Prescribed Burning State 2 submodel, plant communities
2.1A - Heavy, continuous grazing 2.2A - Long-term prescribed grazing State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 1
ReferenceThe Reference State represents the natural range of variability that dominated the dynamics of this ecological site (ES). This state is co-dominated by cool-season grasses and grasslikes. Prior to European settlement of North America, the primary disturbance mechanisms for this site in the Reference condition included periods of below and above average precipitation, periodic fire, and herbivory by insects and large ungulates. Timing of fires and herbivory coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. Wheatgrass species can decline and a corresponding increase in foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), short, warm-season grasses and forbs will occur. Under extended periods of disturbance, the main change is a reduction in vigor and production and an increase in bare ground and forb composition.
Interpretations are based primarily on the 1.1 Reference Plant Community Phase. This plant community evolved with grazing by large herbivores and occasional fire, as well as periodic flooding and drying, and can be maintained with prescribed grazing, prescribed burning, or areas receiving occasional short periods of rest or deferment. This plant community phase has two sub-phases, just referred to as plant communities here. These sub-phases are mainly driven by precipitation and flooding and drying sequences.Dominant plant species
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western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), grass
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common spikerush (Eleocharis palustris), grass
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Nuttall's alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana), grass
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sedge (Carex), grass
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American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), other herbaceous
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curlytop knotweed (Polygonum lapathifolium), other herbaceous
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Pennsylvania smartweed (Polygonum pensylvanicum), other herbaceous
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pale dock (Rumex altissimus), other herbaceous
Community 1.1
Western Wheatgrass-Common Spikerush/Pale DockInterpretations are based primarily on the the 1.1 Western Wheatgrass-Common Spikerush/Pale Dock (Pascoyprum smithii-Eleocharis palustris/Rumex altissimus) plant community phase. This plant community phase is dictated by the precipitation cycle (below average precipitation, normal precipitation, above average precipitation) over several years. Slight but noticeable differences in the plant community occur as a result of precipitation trends. Following several years of above average precipitation, the plant community stabilizes and becomes dominated with perennial grasses such as western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) and common spikerush (Eleocharis palustris). Other grasses and grass-likes present include Nuttall’s alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana), sedge (Cyperacea), rush (Juncus), slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachcaulus). The occurrence of forbs will be considerably lower, including some species such as American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), curlytop knotweed (Polygonum lapathifolium), Pennsylvania smartweed (Polygonum pensylvanicum), Pursh seepweed (Suaeda calceoliformis), and western dock (Rumex aquaticus). The plant community is made up of about 80 to 90 percent grasses and grass-likes, and about 10 to 20 percent forbs.
Following extended dry periods, higher precipitation may cause the 1.1 community to lean more heavily toward the Common Spikerush/Pale Dock community "subphase". This difference is a result of the natural variation in precipitation cycles and is not significant enough to constitute a completely different plant community. Grasses and grass-likes commonly occurring include common spikerush (Eleocharis palustris), sedge (Carex spp.), rush (Juncus spp.), foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), and bluegrasses (Poa spp.). The forbs commonly found include pale dock (Rumex altissimus), western dock (Rumex aquaticus), mint (Mentha), Pursh seepweed (Suaeda calceoliformis), lambsquarters (Chenopodium album), knotweed (Polygonum), evening-primrose (Oenothera), buttercup (Ranunculus), and New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae). The plant community is made up of about 5 to 10 percent grasses, 30 to 40 percent grass-likes, and about 50 to 60 percent forbs.Dominant plant species
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western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), grass
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Nuttall's alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana), grass
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common spikerush (Eleocharis palustris), grass
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sedge (Carex), grass
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pale dock (Rumex altissimus), other herbaceous
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American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), other herbaceous
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curlytop knotweed (Polygonum lapathifolium), other herbaceous
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Pennsylvania smartweed (Polygonum pensylvanicum), other herbaceous
Figure 7. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 5. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(kg/hectare)Representative value
(kg/hectare)High
(kg/hectare)Grass/Grasslike 2068 2649 3419 Forb 174 1274 1625 Total 2242 3923 5044 Figure 8. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0004 , Cool-season grass. Cool season grass, state wide.
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 0 10 40 30 10 5 5 0 0 0 Community 1.2
Western Wheatgrass-Inland SaltgrassThe Western Wheatgrass-Inland Saltgrass (Pascopyrum smithii-Distichlis spicata) plant community is the result of heavy, continuous grazing. Repeated defoliation depletes stored carbohydrates resulting in weakening, and eventual death, of the most palatable grasses. Lack of litter and reduced plant vigor result in higher soil temperatures, poor water infiltration rates, high evapotranspiration, and increased percolation of the high water table. This increases salt concentrations on the surface. This gives inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) and other salt tolerant species a competitive advantage over less tolerant species.
Inland saltgrass drastically increases and competes with western wheatgrass as the dominant species. Other grass and grass-like species present will include Nuttall’s alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana), plains bluegrass (Poa arida), common spikerush (Eleocharis palustris), needle spikerush (Eleocharis acicularis), and other sedges (Cyperaceae) and rushes (Juncaceae). Early cool-season grasses including foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum) and fowl bluegrass (Poa palustris). Common forbs to the site include Pennsylvania smartweed (Polygonum pensylvanicum), curlytop knotweed (Polygonum lapathifolium), plantain (Plantago), and povertyweed (Iva axillaris).
This plant community is relatively stable and well adapted to increased salinity. Plant vigor, litter, frequency and production have decreased. The biological integrity, water, and nutrient cycles of this plant community are becoming impaired. This plant community is less productive than the 1.1 Reference Plant Community Phase. This plant community is susceptible to the introduction and invasion of non-native species, such as Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) and curly dock (Remux crispus). Such invasion will transition the site to the 2.0 Native/Invaded State.Dominant plant species
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western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), grass
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saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), grass
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foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), grass
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Nuttall's alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana), grass
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Pennsylvania smartweed (Polygonum pensylvanicum), other herbaceous
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curlytop knotweed (Polygonum lapathifolium), other herbaceous
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plantain (Plantago), other herbaceous
Figure 9. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 6. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(kg/hectare)Representative value
(kg/hectare)High
(kg/hectare)Grass/Grasslike 1569 1973 2102 Forb 112 493 1037 Total 1681 2466 3139 Figure 10. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0004 , Cool-season grass. Cool season grass, state wide.
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 0 10 40 30 10 5 5 0 0 0 Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2Heavy, continuous grazing (grazing at full to heavy levels for extended portions of the growing season without adequate recovery periods) will shift this community to the 1.2 Western Wheatgrass-Inland Saltgrass Plant Community.
Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1Prescribed grazing, prescribed burning every 3 to 5 years, a return to normal disturbance regime levels and frequencies, or periodic light to moderate grazing (possibly including periodic rest) will convert this plant community to the 1.1 Reference Plant Community Phase.
State 2
Native/InvadedThe Native/Invaded State represents the range of variability that exists with reduced vigor and production of the dominant species as a result of grazing-induced disturbance and the introduction of non-native species. This state is dominated by cool-season grasses. It can be found on areas that are impacted by extended periods of heavy, continuous grazing. Grazing tolerant species become dominant, and non-native species are present.
Dominant plant species
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foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), grass
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saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), grass
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Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), grass
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Nuttall's alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana), grass
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burningbush (Bassia scoparia), other herbaceous
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cocklebur (Xanthium), other herbaceous
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curly dock (Rumex crispus), other herbaceous
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curlycup gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa), other herbaceous
Community 2.1
Foxtail Barley-Inland SaltgrassThe Foxtail Barley-Inland Saltgrass (Hordeum jubatum-Distichlis spicata) plant community developed with heavy, continuous grazing where adequate recovery periods between grazing events were not allowed. Patches of inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) sod are typical and foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), and fowl bluegrass (Poa palustris) are well distributed throughout the community. Nuttall’s alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana) and western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) have been greatly reduced in production and vigor, but may persist in remnant amounts. This plant community is resistant to change due to the grazing tolerance of inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) and increased surface salts. A significant amount of production and diversity has been lost when compared to the 1.1 Reference Plant Community Phase. Loss of key cool-season grasses and increased bare ground have negatively impacted energy flow and nutrient cycling. Water infiltration is reduced significantly due to the massive shallow root system “root pan,” characteristic of inland saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) and increased bare ground.
It will take a long time to bring this plant community back to the Reference State (State 1) with management alone. Renovation (mechanical or chemical inputs) is typically not effective due to high salt content of the soil and saltgrass persistence.Dominant plant species
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foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), grass
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saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), grass
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fowl bluegrass (Poa palustris), grass
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Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), grass
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lambsquarters (Chenopodium album), other herbaceous
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curly dock (Rumex crispus), other herbaceous
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burningbush (Bassia scoparia), other herbaceous
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cocklebur (Xanthium), other herbaceous
Figure 11. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)
Table 7. Annual production by plant type
Plant type Low
(kg/hectare)Representative value
(kg/hectare)High
(kg/hectare)Grass/Grasslike 835 1143 1631 Forb 62 202 387 Total 897 1345 2018 Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0004 , Cool-season grass. Cool season grass, state wide.
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 0 10 40 30 10 5 5 0 0 0 Community 2.2
Curly Dock/Foxtail BarleyThe Curly dock/Foxtail barley (Rumex crispus/Hordeum jubatum) plant community can be reached with heavy, continuous grazing coupled with compaction due to grazing when the soil is saturated. This plant community can also result from long-term ponding and occasional subsequent drying as when this site is developed for a water source. The dominant vegetation includes pioneer annual grasses, forbs, invaders, and early successional biennial and perennial species. Grasses may include foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), fowl bluegrass (Poa palustris), Nuttall’s alkaligrass (Puccinellia nuttalliana), and western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii).
The dominant forbs include curly dock (Rumex crispus), curlycup gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa), kochia (Bassia scoparia), cocklebur (Xanthium spinosum), and other early successional salt tolerant species. The community is susceptible to non-native species due to severe soil disturbances and relatively high percent of bare ground. This plant community is resistant to change, as long as soil disturbance or severe vegetation defoliation persists, thus holding back secondary plant succession. Secondary succession is highly variable, depending upon availability and diversity of a viable seed bank of higher successional species within the existing plant community and neighboring plant communities.Dominant plant species
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foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum), grass
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fowl bluegrass (Poa palustris), grass
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cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), grass
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curly dock (Rumex crispus), other herbaceous
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curlycup gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa), other herbaceous
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burningbush (Bassia scoparia), other herbaceous
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cocklebur (Xanthium), other herbaceous
Pathway 2.1A
Community 2.1 to 2.2Heavy continuous grazing which includes herbivory at moderate to heavy levels at the same time of year each year without adequate recovery periods, or during periods of below normal precipitation when grazing frequency and intensity increases on these sites due to limited forage availability on adjacent upland sites will shift this community to the 2.2 Curly Dock-Foxtail Barley Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 2.2A
Community 2.2 to 2.1Long-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).
State 3
Crop ProductionThe Crop Production State is characterized by the production of annual crops using a variety of tillage and cropping systems along with management practices. Perennial hay crops, such as alfalfa, are also common in this state. Cropping on this site is enabled during years with drier than normal precipitation or with artificial drainage (surface or subsurface).
Dominant plant species
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corn (Zea mays), grass
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wheat (Triticum), grass
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soybean (Glycine max), other herbaceous
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sunflower (Helianthus), other herbaceous
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alfalfa (Medicago sativa), other herbaceous
Community 3.1
Annual CropsThis plant community developed with the use of a variety of tillage and cropping systems for the production of annual crops including corn, soybeans, wheat, and a variety of other crops. Perennial hay crops, such as alfalfa (Medicago sativa), may also be common in this community.
Dominant plant species
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corn (Zea mays), grass
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wheat (Triticum), grass
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soybean (Glycine), other herbaceous
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sunflower (Helianthus), other herbaceous
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alfalfa (Medicago sativa), other herbaceous
Transition T1A
State 1 to 2Heavy, continuous grazing (stocking levels well above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season, and often at the same time of year each year, typically beginning early in the season) and invasion of non-native plant species will cause a transition from the Reference State to the Native/Invaded State.
Transition T1B
State 1 to 3Tillage and cropping systems, typically in drier than normal years, will cause a transition from the Reference state to the Crop Production state.
Restoration pathway R2A
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) and removal of non-native species may lead the Native/Invaded State (State 2) over a threshold to the Reference State (State 1). This restoration may not be achievable due to time and financial constraints, and depending on the prevalence of non-native species present in the plant community.
Transition T2A
State 2 to 3Tillage and cropping systems, typically in drier than normal years, will cause a transition from the Native/Invaded state to the Crop Production state.
Restoration pathway R3A
State 3 to 2Restoration seeding of perennial vegetation, or cropping and abandonment, will cause a restoration from the Crop Production state to the Native/Invaded state.
Additional community tables
Table 8. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Wheatgrasses 785–3335 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 785–3335 20–85 slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–196 0–5 2 Cool-Season Bunchgrasses 196–1569 foxtail barley HOJU Hordeum jubatum 78–1373 2–35 Nuttall's alkaligrass PUNU2 Puccinellia nuttalliana 78–588 2–15 3 Short Warm-Season Grasses 39–392 saltgrass DISP Distichlis spicata 39–392 1–10 buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 0–196 0–5 4 Other Native Grasses 78–392 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–392 0–10 fowl bluegrass POPA2 Poa palustris 39–196 1–5 plains bluegrass POAR3 Poa arida 39–196 1–5 5 Grass-Likes 392–1765 common spikerush ELPA3 Eleocharis palustris 196–1569 5–40 needle spikerush ELAC Eleocharis acicularis 39–588 1–15 sedge CAREX Carex 78–392 2–10 Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–392 0–10 rush JUNCU Juncus 0–196 0–5 Forb6 Forbs 196–2354 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–785 0–20 curlytop knotweed POLA4 Polygonum lapathifolium 0–588 0–15 pale dock RUAL4 Rumex altissimus 0–588 0–15 Pennsylvania smartweed POPE2 Polygonum pensylvanicum 0–588 0–15 lambsquarters CHAL7 Chenopodium album 0–392 0–10 New England aster SYNO2 Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 0–392 0–10 western dock RUAQ Rumex aquaticus 0–392 0–10 Pursh seepweed SUCA2 Suaeda calceoliformis 0–392 0–5 mealy goosefoot CHIN2 Chenopodium incanum 0–196 0–5 mint MENTH Mentha 0–196 0–5 evening primrose OENOT Oenothera 0–196 0–5 Indianhemp APCA Apocynum cannabinum 0–196 0–5 golden tickseed COTI3 Coreopsis tinctoria 0–196 0–5 plantain PLANT Plantago 0–196 0–5 povertyweed IVAX Iva axillaris 0–196 0–5 American licorice GLLE3 Glycyrrhiza lepidota 0–196 0–5 bushy knotweed PORA3 Polygonum ramosissimum 0–196 0–5 cinquefoil POTEN Potentilla 0–196 0–5 creeping woodsorrel OXCO Oxalis corniculata 0–118 0–3 smooth horsetail EQLA Equisetum laevigatum 0–118 0–3 tall fringed bluebells MECI3 Mertensia ciliata 0–118 0–3 Table 9. Community 1.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Wheatgrasses 370–986 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 370–986 15–40 2 Cool-Season Bunchgrasses 123–493 foxtail barley HOJU Hordeum jubatum 74–370 3–15 Nuttall's alkaligrass PUNU2 Puccinellia nuttalliana 25–247 1–10 3 Short Warm-Season Grasses 247–986 saltgrass DISP Distichlis spicata 247–986 10–40 buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 0–74 0–3 4 Other Native Grasses 25–247 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 25–247 1–10 fowl bluegrass POPA2 Poa palustris 0–74 0–3 plains bluegrass POAR3 Poa arida 0–74 0–3 5 Grass-Likes 123–616 common spikerush ELPA3 Eleocharis palustris 49–370 2–15 sedge CAREX Carex 0–197 0–8 rush JUNCU Juncus 0–123 0–5 Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–123 0–5 needle spikerush ELAC Eleocharis acicularis 0–123 0–5 Forb6 Forbs 25–247 curlytop knotweed POLA4 Polygonum lapathifolium 0–247 0–10 Pennsylvania smartweed POPE2 Polygonum pensylvanicum 0–247 0–10 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–247 0–10 creeping woodsorrel OXCO Oxalis corniculata 0–123 0–5 plantain PLANT Plantago 0–123 0–5 povertyweed IVAX Iva axillaris 0–123 0–5 Pursh seepweed SUCA2 Suaeda calceoliformis 0–123 0–5 bushy knotweed PORA3 Polygonum ramosissimum 0–123 0–5 evening primrose OENOT Oenothera 0–74 0–3 Indianhemp APCA Apocynum cannabinum 0–74 0–3 mealy goosefoot CHIN2 Chenopodium incanum 0–74 0–3 New England aster SYNO2 Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 0–74 0–3 pale dock RUAL4 Rumex altissimus 0–74 0–3 American licorice GLLE3 Glycyrrhiza lepidota 0–74 0–3 smooth horsetail EQLA Equisetum laevigatum 0–74 0–3 western dock RUAQ Rumex aquaticus 0–74 0–3 curlycup gumweed GRSQ Grindelia squarrosa 0–74 0–3 cinquefoil POTEN Potentilla 0–25 0–1 Table 10. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Wheatgrasses 1009–1278 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–67 0–5 slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–67 0–5 2 Cool-Season Bunchgrasses 269–673 foxtail barley HOJU Hordeum jubatum 269–673 20–50 Nuttall's alkaligrass PUNU2 Puccinellia nuttalliana 0–40 0–3 3 Short Warm-Season Grass 135–538 saltgrass DISP Distichlis spicata 135–538 10–40 4 Other Native Grasses 0–67 fowl bluegrass POPA2 Poa palustris 0–67 0–5 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–67 0–5 5 Grass-Likes 67–269 common spikerush ELPA3 Eleocharis palustris 27–202 2–15 needle spikerush ELAC Eleocharis acicularis 0–67 0–5 sedge CAREX Carex 0–67 0–5 rush JUNCU Juncus 0–40 0–3 Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–40 0–3 6 Non-Native Grasses 13–108 Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 0–67 0–5 cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 13–67 1–5 Forb7 Forbs 67–336 lambsquarters CHAL7 Chenopodium album 0–202 0–15 Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 0–135 0–10 curly dock RUCR Rumex crispus 0–135 0–10 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–67 0–5 cocklebur XANTH2 Xanthium 0–67 0–5 curlycup gumweed GRSQ Grindelia squarrosa 0–67 0–5 curlytop knotweed POLA4 Polygonum lapathifolium 0–40 0–3 Pennsylvania smartweed POPE2 Polygonum pensylvanicum 0–40 0–3 plantain PLANT Plantago 0–40 0–3 povertyweed IVAX Iva axillaris 0–40 0–3 bushy knotweed PORA3 Polygonum ramosissimum 0–40 0–3 creeping woodsorrel OXCO Oxalis corniculata 0–40 0–3 smooth horsetail EQLA Equisetum laevigatum 0–40 0–3 mealy goosefoot CHIN2 Chenopodium incanum 0–27 0–2 Pursh seepweed SUCA2 Suaeda calceoliformis 0–13 0–1 Table 11. Community 2.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 12. Community 3.1 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. Following consultation of the land manager, more intensive grazing management may result in improved harvest efficiencies and increased carrying capacity. Stocking rates are calculated using Animal-Unit-Month (AUM), which is the amount of air-dry forage required to feed a cow, with or without calf, for one month.
Reference Plant Community Phase (1.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 3,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.96
Western Wheatgrass-Inland Saltgrass (1.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,200
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.60
Foxtail Barley-Inland Saltgrass (2.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1,200
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.33
*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 dominated by soils in hydrologic group D. Infiltration varies from very slow to slow and runoff potential for this site varies from high to very 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 an area where short-grasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Dominance by blue grama, buffalograss, bluegrass, 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, photography, bird watching, and other opportunities. The wide varieties of plants that bloom from spring until fall have an aesthetic value that appeals to visitors.
Wood products
No appreciable wood products are typically present on this site.
Other products
Seed harvest of native plant species can provide additional income on this site.
Other information
Ecological Site Correlation Issues and Questions:
The following is the list of national mapunit symbols for the mapunits which contain a component correlated to the MLRA 55D Closed Depression ecological site:
2sd3d, 2sd3n, 2sd5m, 2sd5n, 2sd65, 2sd66, 2sl41, 2sd1y, 2sd6d, 2sd6f, 2sd6g, 2sd6h, 2sd6j, 2sd69, 2sd6b, 2sd31, 2sd3m, 2sd3j, 2sd3hSupporting information
Inventory data references
Information presented here has been derived from NRCS clipping data and other inventory data from the adjacent MLRA 55C. Field observations from range-trained personnel were also used. Those involved in developing this site include: Stan Boltz, Former Range Management Specialist, NRCS. Bruce Kunze, Soil Scientist, NRCS Lance Howe, Soil Scientist, NRCS-SPSD, Redfield, SD Landon Wolter, Range Management Specialist, NRCS-SPSD, Redfield, SD
Other references
Cleland, D.T., J.A. Freeouf, J.E. Keys, G.J. Nowacki, C. Carpenter, and W.H. McNab. 2007. Ecological Subregions: Sections and Subsections of the Coterminous United States. USDA Forest Service, General Technical Report WO-76. Washington, DC.
Gilbert, M. C., Whited, P. M., Clairain Jr, E. J., & Smith, R. D. (2006). A Regional Guidebook for Applying the Hydrogeomorphic Approach to Assessing Wetland Functions of Prairie Potholes. Washington DC.
Samson, F. B., & Knopf, F. L. (1996). Prairie Conservation Preserving North America's Most Endagered Ecosystem. Washington D.C.: Island Press.
Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Official Soil Series Descriptions. Available online. Accessed March 2018.
United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 2003. National Range and Pasture Handbook, Revision 1. Grazing Lands Technology Institute.
United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 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.
USDA, NRCS. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center, (http://soils.usda.gov/technical/nasis/)
USDA, NRCS. 2019. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 13 March 2019).
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA]. 2013. Level III and Level IV Ecoregions of the Continental United States. Corvallis, OR, U.S. EPA, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, map scale 1:3,000,000. Available at http://www.epa.gov/eco-research/level-iii-and-iv-ecoregions- continental-united-states. (Accessed 13 March 2019).
High Plains Regional Climate Center, University of Nebraska. (http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/)
USDA, NRCS. National Water and Climate Center. (http://wcc.nrcs.usda.gov)
USDA, NRCS. National Range and Pasture Handbook, September 1997
USDA, NRCS. 2001. The PLANTS Database, Version 3.1 (http://plants.usda.gov). National Plant Data Center.Contributors
Stan Boltz
Bruce Kunze
Lance Howe
Landon WolterApproval
Jamin Johanson, 9/30/2026
Acknowledgments
This site concept was developed using the Closed Depression ESD of the adjacent MLRA 55C. Future work is needed to verify these site concepts in MLRA 55D. Lance Howe (Lance.Howe@usda.gov), Soil Survey Office Leader, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD; and Steve Winter (Steven.Winter@usda.gov), Soil Scientist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD Additional Information Acknowledgment: Jason Hermann (Jason.Hermann@usda.gov), Area Rangeland Management Specialist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD. This Provisional Ecological Site concept has passed both Quality Control and Quality Assurance processes in MLRA 55C. Officially approved for publication in MLRA 55C by David Kraft as of 11/12/2020. Non-discrimination Statement In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, available online and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632- 9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.
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, Landon Wolter Contact for lead author Entered on behalf of lead author (Stan Boltz) by Landon Wolter. Contact at landon.wolter@usda.gov for more information. 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:
Barely observable or not present. -
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
None. -
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Normally bare ground is less than 5 percent and patches less than two inches in diameter. Following well-above average or well-below average precipitation periods, bare ground can be very high for brief periods of time. -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present. -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None present. -
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Little to no plant litter movement. Plant litter remains in place and is not moved by erosional forces. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Soil aggregate stability normally a 4 to 6 rating. Typically high root content and organic matter in the soil surface. Soil surface is very 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 grass and grass-like species enhance infiltration and reduce runoff, but because of the nature of the site, infiltration is often poor due to soil characteristics. -
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 present. Platy layers naturally occur near the surface of some soils and should not be confused with compaction. -
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:
Drier precipitation cycles: Wheatgrasses (mid, cool-season rhizomatous) >> mid, cool-season bunchgrasses > Wetter precipitation cycles: Grass-like species = forbs >Sub-dominant:
Other:
Drier precipitation cycles: Forbs > grass-like species Wetter precipitation cycles: Mid, cool-season bunchgrassesAdditional:
Other grasses in other functional groups occur in minor amounts. -
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, except after extended periods of ponding as a result of heavy precipitation late in the growing season. -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
10-60 percent plant litter cover, roughly 0.5 inch in depth. Litter cover is in contact with the soil surface. -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
2,000-4,500 lbs./acre air-dry weight; average 3,500 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. -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
Perennial grass and grass-like species have vigorous rhizomes and/or tillers.
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