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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.
MLRA notes
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 061X–Black Hills Foot Slopes
The Black Hills Foot Slopes (MLRA 61) is shared between Wyoming (WY) (58 percent) and South Dakota (SD) (42 percent). The MLRA is approximately 1,865 square miles in size. The towns of Spearfish, Sturgis, and Hot Springs, South Dakota and Newcastle and Sundance, Wyoming are all within the boundary of this MLRA. Rapid City, South Dakota is on the eastern edge of the MLRA. Wind Cave National Park, Devils Tower National Monument, and parts of Thunder Basin National Grassland and the Black Hills National Forest are located in MLRA 61. Devils Tower was our nation’s first National Monument, designated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906.
The Black Hills Foot Slopes consists of steeply dipping rocks circling the domed mountains of the Black Hills. As the mountains were uplifted, older sediments were tipped up, so they dip away from the core of the mountains. The Lower Cretaceous Fall River and Lakota (Inyan Kara Group) sandstones that occur on the outside boundary of the area are referred to as the Dakota Hogback. The next geologic formation is the Triassic-aged red beds of the Spearfish shale which form a low valley. The “red valley” surrounds the Black Hills between the two ridges formed by the Inyan Kara (hogback) and Minnekahta Formations associated with the Black Hills (MLRA 62). The Lakota referred to the red valley as the “Big Racecourse or the Red Racetrack.” The red beds have gypsum and anhydrous layers. Ground water seepage can dissolve these layers, creating sinkholes on the surface.
The average elevation of MLRA 61 ranges from 2,950 to 3,940 feet with extremes to 5,580 feet. Slopes are generally hilly; however, the interior red beds are nearly level to moderately sloping. The exterior hogback is steep, erosion-resistant rock. The Belle Fourche River is the only river to flow through MLRA 61, near Hulett, Wyoming.
The dominant soil orders in this MLRA are Alfisols, Entisols, and Mollisols. The soils in the area have predominantly frigid or mesic soil temperature regimes, and aridic or ustic soil moisture regimes. Soils are shallow to very deep, generally well drained, and loamy.
Annual precipitation is 16-22 inches. The majority of rainfall occurs early in the growing season with some high-intensity thunderstorms occurring mid-late summer. This MLRA supports open grassland, open ponderosa forest, and savanna-like vegetation. The grassland is characterized by native grasses, such as big and little bluestem, western wheatgrass, needle and thread, prairie dropseed, and green needlegrass. Bur oak grows throughout the northern area and can develop into nearly pure stands.
The major resource concerns are water quality, wind and water erosion, and urban expansion.
Of the total acreage making up MLRA 61, 54 percent is privately owned rangeland and 19 percent forest land. Federal lands make up 7 percent of the rangeland and 5 percent of the forest land. The remaining 15 percent is privately owned cropland and urban development (USDA, NRCS. 2006. Ag Handbook 296).LRU notes
For development of ecological sites, MLRA 61 is divided into three precipitation zones (PZ).
The northern area (18–22” PZ) extends from just south of Rapid City, South Dakota, north to the Wyoming border.
The southern area (16–18” PZ) extends from Newcastle, Wyoming, south to Hot Springs, South Dakota, then north to just south of Rapid City.
The western area (16–20” PZ) is primarily located in Wyoming, extending from Newcastle in the south, to north of the Bear Lodge Mountains, then south through the gap between the Bear Lodge Mountains and the Black Hills.
One additional grouping of ecological sites represents sites that are common for the entire MLRA and do not have a precipitation zone designation.
The forest lands in MLRA 61 are represented by three forest ecological sites, which are currently correlated to MLRA 62 Black Hills.Classification relationships
USDA Land Resource Region G – Western Great Plains Range and Irrigated Region:
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA) 61 - Black Hills Foot Slopes
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Level IV Ecoregions of the Conterminous United States:
Black Hills Foothills - 17a
USDA Forest Service
Ecological Subregions: Sections and Subsections of Conterminous United States:
Black Hills Coniferous Forest Province - M334,
Black Hills Foothills Subsection - M334AaEcological site concept
The Shallow Clayey ecological site occurs throughout MLRA 61. It is located on upland landscapes and does not receive additional moisture from runoff or overflow. The typical slopes range from 5 to 40 percent. Soils are shallow, between 10 and 20 inches in depth, with a surface texture of silty clay loam, 3 to 5 inches thick. Subsurface textures range from silty clay loam to clay.
The vegetation in the Reference State (1.0) is dominated by cool-season grasses, with warm-season grasses being subdominant. Rhizomatous wheatgrass, green needlegrass, little bluestem, and sideoats grama are the major grass species. Forbs are common and diverse. Shrubs, such as leadplant, rose, winterfat, and fringed sagewort are almost always present in minor amounts. The Shallow Clayey site is susceptible to invasion of non-native cool-season grasses and encroachment of conifers from adjacent sites.Associated sites
R061XN012SD Thin Upland-North (18-22" PZ)
The Thin Upland 16-18” PZ ecological site is found on steep slopes adjacent to the Shallow Clayey ecological site.
R061XN011SD Clayey-North (18-22" PZ)
The Clayey 16-18” PZ ecological site is found on near level to gently sloping uplands adjacent to the Shallow Clayey ecological site.
R061XW104WY Clayey-West (16-20" PZ)
The Clayey 16-20” PZ ecological site is found on near level to gently sloping uplands adjacent to the Shallow Clayey ecological site.
Similar sites
R061XS012SD Thin Upland-South (16-18" PZ)
The Thin Upland 16-18” PZ ecological site will be calcareous at or near the soil surface, have more little bluestem and sideoats grama, and less western wheatgrass and big bluestem than the Shallow Clayey ecological site.
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub Not specified
Herbaceous (1) Pascopyrum smithii
(2) Nassella viridulaPhysiographic features
The Shallow Clayey ecological site occurs on moderately to steeply sloping uplands.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Upland > Hill
(2) Upland > Hogback
(3) Upland > Ridge
Runoff class High to very high Flooding frequency None Ponding frequency None Elevation 2900 – 4000 ft Slope 5 – 40 % Aspect Aspect is not a significant factor Climatic features
The climate in MLRA 61 is typical of the drier portions of the Northern Great Plains where sagebrush steppes to the west yield to grassland steppes to the east. Annual precipitation ranges from 16 to 22 inches per year, with most falling during the growing season. Temperatures show a wide range between the summer and winter months and between daily maximums and minimums, due to the high elevation and dry air, which permits rapid incoming and outgoing radiation. Cold air outbreaks from Canada in winter move rapidly from northwest to southeast and account for extreme minimum temperatures. Chinook winds may occur in the winter and bring rapid rises in temperature. Extreme storms may occur during the winter months, but most severely affect ranch operations during late winter and spring.
The average annual temperature is about 47°F. January and December are the coldest months with average temperatures ranging from about 23°F (NNW of Edgemont, SD) to about 26°F (Fort Meade, SD). July is the warmest month with temperatures averaging from about 69°F (Fort Meade, WY) to about 73°F (Hot Springs, SD). The range of average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 47°F. Hourly winds are estimated to average about 11 miles per hour (mph) annually, ranging from about 13 mph during the spring to about 10 mph during the summer. Daytime winds are generally stronger than nighttime and occasional 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. Cool-season plants may green-up in September and October if adequate soil moisture is present.Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (characteristic range) 100-120 days Freeze-free period (characteristic range) 120-140 days Precipitation total (characteristic range) 20-20 in Frost-free period (actual range) 80-120 days Freeze-free period (actual range) 120-160 days Precipitation total (actual range) 20-20 in Frost-free period (average) 110 days Freeze-free period (average) 130 days Precipitation total (average) 20 in Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 2. Monthly precipitation range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 3. Monthly minimum temperature range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 4. Monthly maximum temperature range
BarLineFigure 5. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
Figure 6. Annual precipitation pattern
Figure 7 Annual average temperature pattern
Climate stations used
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(1) BEAR RIDGE [USC00390554], Spearfish, SD
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(2) EDGEMONT [USC00392557], Edgemont, SD
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(3) EDGEMONT 23 NNW [USC00392565], Custer, SD
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(4) FT MEADE [USC00393069], Fort Meade, SD
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(5) HOT SPRINGS [USC00394007], Hot Springs, SD
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(6) RAPID CITY WFO [USC00396948], Rapid City, SD
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(7) RAPID CITY 4NW [USC00396947], Rapid City, SD
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(8) SPEARFISH [USC00397882], Spearfish, SD
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(9) DEVILS TWR #2 [USC00482466], Devils Tower, WY
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(10) HULETT [USC00484760], Hulett, WY
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(11) NEWCASTLE [USC00486660], Newcastle, WY
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(12) SUNDANCE [USC00488705], Sundance, WY
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(13) UPTON 14ENE [USC00489208], Newcastle, WY
">Influencing water features
No riparian areas or wetland features are directly associated with the Shallow Clayey ecological site.
Wetland description
Not Applicable.
Soil features
Soils common to this site have a silty clay loam surface texture that is 3 to 5 inches thick. Soils are shallow (10 to 20 inches in depth) and formed in residuum derived from shale. Subsurface textures are clayey to silty clay loam. Some soil series will have an impervious shale layer at 10 to 20 inches however, other soil series will have a fractured shale layer with up to 50 percent by volume of fine to very fine, soft weathered shale fragment. Soils are well-drained and have a slow to very slow infiltration rate. Slopes range from 5 to 40 percent. Some soil series have a restrictive layer of shale bedrock, at about 16 inches in depth, which impedes water movement and root penetration. Other series with weathered shale chips can allow water to infiltrate and roots to extend to a depth of 30 inches.
This site typically should show slight to no evidence of rills, wind-scoured areas, or pedestalled plants. If present, water flow paths are broken, irregular in appearance, or discontinuous. The soil surface is stable and intact.
Major Soils correlated to the Shallow Clayey ecological site include, Lismas, Samoist, and Samsil.
These soils are mainly susceptible to water erosion. The hazard of water erosion increases on slopes greater than about 20 percent. Loss of 50 percent or more of the surface layer of the soils on this site can result in a shift in species composition and/or production. Available water capacity and permeability will strongly influence the soil-water-plant relationship.
More information regarding the soil is available in soil survey reports. Contact the local USDA Service Center or use the Web Soil Survey online for details specific to your area of interest.Table 4. Representative soil features
Parent material (1) Residuum – shale
Surface texture (1) Silty clay loam
Family particle size (1) Clayey
Drainage class Well drained Permeability class Very slow to slow Soil depth 10 – 20 in Surface fragment cover <=3" 0 – 14 % Surface fragment cover >3" Not specified Available water capacity
(0-40in)2 – 3 in Calcium carbonate equivalent
(0-40in)0 – 15 % Electrical conductivity
(0-40in)2 – 4 mmhos/cm Sodium adsorption ratio
(0-40in)0 – 5 Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-40in)6.6 – 9 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(Depth not specified)0 – 4 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(Depth not specified)Not specified Ecological dynamics
The Shallow Clayey ecological site developed under the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions; light to severe grazing by bison and other large herbivores; sporadic, natural or human-caused wildfire (often of light intensities); and other biotic and abiotic factors that typically influence soil and site development. Changes occur in the plant communities due to short-term weather variations, effects of native and exotic plant and animal species, and management actions. Although the following plant community descriptions are typical of the transitions between communities, severe disturbances, such as periods of well below average precipitation and the introduction of non-native cool-season grasses, can cause significant shifts in plant communities and species composition.
Continuous grazing (e.g., every spring and/or every summer at moderate to heavy stocking levels) without adequate recovery periods following grazing events causes departure from the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.1). Blue grama and sedge can increase and eventually develop into a sod. Western wheatgrass will increase initially and then begin to decrease. Needle and thread, green needlegrass, big bluestem, sideoats grama, and little bluestem will decrease in frequency and production. Excessive defoliation can cause threeawn and annuals to increase and dominate the site. A few mature trees comprised of ponderosa pine and Rocky Mountain juniper occupy this site. With extended periods of no fire, trees will begin to encroach into the herbaceous community and may eventually dominate the site.
Interpretations are primarily based on the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem 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 state-and-transition diagram illustrates the common plant communities on the site and the transition pathways between communities. The ecological processes are discussed in more detail in the plant community descriptions following the diagram.State and transition model
Custom diagramStandard diagramMore interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective textEcosystem states
States 1, 5 and 2 (additional transitions)
State 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 4 submodel, plant communities
State 5 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference StateThe Reference State represents the best estimate of the natural range of variability that dominated the dynamics of the Shallow Clayey ecological site prior to European settlement. This state is dominated by cool-season grasses, with warm-season grasses being subdominant. In pre-European times, the primary disturbance mechanisms included occasional 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. Taller cool- and warm-season grasses would have declined and a corresponding increase in short-statured grasses and grass-like species would have occurred. Today, a similar state can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and prescribed burning and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. The Reference State is susceptible to invasion of non-native cool-season grasses and the encroachment of conifers from adjacent sites.
Community 1.1
Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little BluestemInterpretations are based primarily on the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community. This is also considered the Reference Plant Community (1.1). The potential vegetation is about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, 10 percent shrubs, and scattered mature trees. The community is dominated by cool-season grasses, with warm-season grasses being subdominant. The major grasses include western wheatgrass, green needlegrass, sideoats grama, and little bluestem. Other grass and grass-like species include plains muhly, big bluestem, needle and thread, bluebunch wheatgrass, blue grama, and needleleaf sedge. 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 regard to soils and site stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 8. 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 1040 1428 1815 Forb 80 128 175 Shrub/Vine 80 128 175 Tree 0 16 35 Total 1200 1700 2200 Figure 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6102 , Black Hills Foot Slopes, cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant. Cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 3 10 23 34 15 6 5 4 Community 1.2
Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Grama-Little BluestemThis plant community developed under continuous season-long grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. This community can also develop where this site occurs near water sources. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, 10 percent shrubs, and a minor amount of mature trees scattered randomly across the site. Dominant grass and grass-like species include western wheatgrass, green needlegrass, sideoats grama, blue grama, needleleaf sedge, and little bluestem. Grasses of secondary importance include needle and thread, buffalograss, prairie Junegrass, and bottlebrush squirreltail. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include cudweed sagewort, desert biscuitroot, goldenpea, milkvetch, scarlet globemallow, silverleaf scurfpea, and white prairie aster. Dominant shrubs include fringed sagewort and yucca.
When compared to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.1), blue grama and needleleaf sedge have increased. Tall and mid-cool- and warm-season grasses have decreased, and vegetative production has also been reduced. This plant community is moderately resistant to change. This is due in part to the shallow rooted nature of the shortgrass species which decreases infiltration especially to the deeper rooted tall and mid-grass species. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through continued overgrazing. If the herbaceous component is intact, it tends to be resilient if the disturbance is not long-term. This plant community phase is reaching a critical point where continued overgrazing will likely shift this community over a threshold leading to a short grass and grass-like dominated state. The shorter, more grazing tolerant species tend to self-perpetuate as the shallow, dense rooting structure takes advantage of rainfall and reduces deeper infiltration to the taller species.Figure 10. 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 870 1176 1480 Forb 65 105 145 Shrub/Vine 65 105 145 Tree 0 14 30 Total 1000 1400 1800 Figure 11. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6102 , Black Hills Foot Slopes, cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant. Cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 3 10 23 34 15 6 5 4 Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2Continuous season-long grazing (stocking levels above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season), or heavy grazing in combination with drought will lead the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.1) to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Grama-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.2).
Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1Prescribed grazing (proper stocking, alternating season of use, and providing adequate recovery periods); periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest; or a return to normal precipitation patterns following drought will convert this plant community to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.1).
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing State 2
Shortgrass Sod StateThis state is a result of overgrazing (individual plants of selected species being repeatedly grazed due to continuous grazing systems which allow for long paddock occupation periods). This type of grazing causes reduced vigor of the selected species (i.e., typically the most desired by grazing ungulates). As the photosynthetic area of these species is repeatedly removed, carbohydrate production needed for root respiration is inadequate and the root systems of these species begin to falter. The shorter, more grazing tolerant species are given the advantage and will dominate the site. In the early stages of this state, tall and mid-grass remnants may be present in sufficient quantities to allow for recovery to the Reference State (1.0). Over time, this recovery will become less likely due to higher runoff and reduced infiltration.
Community 2.1
Sedge/Blue Grama/Fringed SagewortThis plant community evolved under continuous seasonal grazing; continuous season-long grazing; or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 75 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, 15 percent shrubs, and scattered mature trees. Dominant grass and grass-like species include needleleaf sedge and blue grama. Other grasses include western wheatgrass, sideoats grama, buffalograss, and a variety of other grasses. Cheatgrass may also invade and become quite prevalent. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include white sagebrush (cudweed sagewort), silverleaf scurfpea, and white prairie aster.
When compared to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.1), short statured species are dominant on this plant community. Tall and mid-grasses have decreased significantly. This vegetation state is very resistant to change due to the increase in the root mat near the surface of the soil which further reduces infiltration. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing.
This plant community is less productive than other plant community 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 12. 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 600 897 1190 Shrub/Vine 50 110 170 Forb 50 83 115 Tree 0 10 25 Total 700 1100 1500 Figure 13. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6104 , Black Hills Foot Slopes, warm-season dominant, cool-season sub-dominant. Warm-season dominant, cool-season sub-dominant.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 3 7 17 25 25 15 7 1 State 3
Early Successional StateThe Early Successional State is the result of very heavy, concentrated disturbance such as intense rodent activity, or livestock concentration areas. This state can also develop as a result of invasion by highly competitive or noxious weed species. Extended periods of drought accompanied by heavy grazing can also push an at-risk plant community phase to this state. In most cases, this phase is dominated by pioneer perennial and annual grass and forb species. Bare ground is also much higher than on any other plant community phase.
Community 3.1
Annual/Pioneer PerennialThis plant community developed under heavy, continuous season-long grazing; frequent and severe defoliation; or other heavy disturbances (e.g., heavy use areas). The potential plant community is made up of approximately 40 to 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 20 to 60 percent forbs, and 0 to 5 percent shrubs. The species present in this phase are highly variable, but often include non-native invasive and early seral species. 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.
State 4
Conifer StateThis Conifer 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. This state is reached when mature tree canopy reaches approximately 25 percent or more. Tree canopy typically is dominated by ponderosa pine, but Rocky Mountain juniper may also be present in varying amounts.
Community 4.1
Ponderosa Pine-Juniper/Green Needlegrass-Little BluestemThis plant community develops where trees from adjacent sites encroach or trees naturally occurring on the site increase and begin to shade out the herbaceous component. Ponderosa pine is the most common species to occupy the site, but encroachment of Rocky Mountain juniper can also occur. These species expand on this site due to suppression of fire. The mature tree canopy is 25 percent or greater. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 35 percent grasses and grass-like species, 5 percent forbs, 10 percent shrubs, and 50 percent trees. Dominant grass and grass-like species include little bluestem, green needlegrass, needle and thread, blue grama, threeawn, and needleleaf sedge.
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, white prairie aster, silverleaf scurfpea, and pussytoes. Non-native species such as cheatgrass and bluegrass will tend to invade.
Compared to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.1), tree canopy increases significantly. The grass component decreases dramatically with increased shading and the buildup of duff. Annual herbaceous production also decreases significantly. While the tree 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 tree canopy can be accomplished through fire, mechanical brush management, or prescribed burning. 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 14. 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 585 618 820 Tree 220 520 650 Shrub/Vine 60 98 135 Forb 35 64 95 Total 900 1300 1700 Figure 15. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6111 , Black Hills Foot Slopes, heavy conifer canopy. Mature ponderosa pine/juniper 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 Community 4.2
Ponderosa Pine-JuniperThis plant community is a result of continued suppression of fire and no brush management. The tree canopy eventually becomes closed and most of the herbaceous understory is lost. Mature tree canopy approaches 45 percent or higher and competition slows the growth rate of the trees. A few cool-season species may survive, as well as, shrubs and possibly vines. This plant community may only be altered through brush management or possibly a wildfire that has enough energy to cause crowning of the trees. This plant community phase will also be accompanied by a relatively thick layer of acidic duff from the needles of the trees which will further reduce the establishment of herbaceous species.
Pathway 4.1A
Community 4.1 to 4.2No fire or no brush treatment for an extended period of time will cause the tree canopy to continue to increase and shift this plant community (4.1) to the Ponderosa Pine-Juniper Plant Community (4.2).
Pathway 4.2A
Community 4.2 to 4.1Fire; brush management; or prescribed burning will be required to shift this plant community away from this phase. Reproductive propagules of native herbaceous species will need to be present to result in a shift from the Ponderosa Pine-Juniper Plant Community (4.2) to the Ponderosa Pine-Juniper/Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community (4.1).
Conservation practices
Brush Management Prescribed Burning State 5
Native/Invaded StateThe Native/Invaded State is dominated by native cool- and warm-season grasses, and subdominant non-native cool-season grasses. It can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and possibly prescribed burning, and on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. If the native cool-season grasses decline a corresponding increase of non-native cool-season grasses can occur. The non-native cool-season grasses will include Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, cheatgrass, and field brome.
Community 5.1
Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Needlegrass-Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses (<15%)This plant community develops when non-native cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass or smooth brome invade and become established on the site. This may occur due to the sites close proximity to seed sources, expansion from road ditches, improved pastures, other invaded sites, or from contaminated hay. Repeated seasonal grazing (typically during the summer), or long-term light grazing, or extended periods of non-use and no fire, will allow these non-native cool-season grasses to increase in the plant community. Plant litter accumulates in large amounts when this community first develops. Litter buildup reduces mature native plant vigor and density, and seedling recruitment declines. Eventually litter levels become high enough that plant density decreases. Typically, rhizomatous grasses form small colonies because of a lack of tiller stimulation.
The potential vegetation is about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs and trees. The community is dominated by cool-season grasses. The major grasses include western wheatgrass, needle and thread, green needlegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and smooth brome. Other grass and grass-like species include little bluestem, blue grama, sideoats grama, and needleleaf sedge.
This is a sustainable plant community in regard to soil and site stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity. However, the presence of smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, and other invasive species will begin to alter the soil biotic community and potentially lead to further invasion of non-native species.Figure 16. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD6102 , Black Hills Foot Slopes, cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant. Cool-season dominant, warm-season sub-dominant.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 3 10 23 34 15 6 5 4 Transition T1C
State 1 to 2Continuous season-long grazing (stocking levels above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season); continuous seasonal grazing (spring or fall); heavy grazing in combination with drought will result in a transition from the Reference State (1.0) to the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0). This transition will most likely occur from the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Grama-Little Bluestem Plant Community (1.2).
Transition T1D
State 1 to 3Heavy, continuous season-long grazing; frequent and severe defoliation; or heavy disturbance will transition the Reference State (1.0) to the Early Successional State (3.0).
Transition T1B
State 1 to 4Encroachment or increase in canopy cover of native coniferous tree species, and no fire will lead the Reference State (1.0) over a threshold to the Conifer State (4.0). This threshold will be crossed when tree canopy reaches approximately 25 percent or more of mature trees.
Transition T1A
State 1 to 5Continuous seasonal grazing (summer); long-term light grazing; or no use and no fire; the invasion of non-native cool-season grasses will transition the Reference State (1.0) to the Native/Invaded State (5.0).
Restoration pathway R2A
State 2 to 1Long-term prescribed grazing including proper stocking rates, change in season of use, adequate time for recovery and a return to normal precipitation patterns following drought will transition the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0) to the Reference State (1.0). This transition may not be fast or feasible.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Transition T2B
State 2 to 3Heavy, continuous season-long grazing; frequent and severe defoliation; or heavy disturbance will transition the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0) to the Early Successional State (3.0).
Transition T2A
State 2 to 5No use, or long-term light grazing, and the invasion of non-native cool-season grasses will likely transition the Shortgrass Sod (2.0) State to the Native/Invaded State (5.0).
Restoration pathway R3A
State 3 to 2Removal of disturbances coupled with long-term prescribed grazing with change in season of use, and adequate recovery time following grazing may return the Early Successional State (3.0) to the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0). Herbaceous weed control may also be needed. This transition could require significant time and input to achieve and, in the end, may not meet management objectives.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Herbaceous Weed Control Transition T3A
State 3 to 5Removal of disturbances, herbaceous weed control, possibly seeding to native species, followed by prescribed grazing that includes proper stocking, change in season of use, and deferment that provides time for adequate recovery will transition this state to the Native/Invaded State (5.0).
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Herbaceous Weed Control Restoration pathway R4A
State 4 to 1Fire; prescribed burning; or mechanical brush management in conjunction with long-term prescribed grazing may lead the Conifer State (4.0) across a threshold back to the Reference State (1.0). This would need to take place before the trees reach maturity and are still susceptible to fire, and reproductive propagules of the perennial grasses are still present. After trees reach maturity, a stand replacing fire or brush management would be needed to move this state over the threshold back to the Reference State (1.0).
Conservation practices
Brush Management Prescribed Burning Prescribed Grazing Transition T4A
State 4 to 5Invasion of non-native cool-season grasses; fire, mechanical brush management, or prescribed burning to remove conifers will transition the Conifer/Herbaceous State (4.0) to the Native/Invaded State (5.0).
Conservation practices
Brush Management Prescribed Burning Transition T5B
State 5 to 2Continuous season-long grazing (stocking levels above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season); continuous seasonal grazing (spring or fall); or heavy grazing in combination with drought will result in a transition from the Native/Invaded State (5.0) to the Shortgrass Sod State (2.0).
Transition T5C
State 5 to 3Heavy, continuous season-long grazing; frequent and severe defoliation; or heavy disturbance will transition the Native/Invaded State (5.0) to the Early Successional State (3.0).
Transition T5A
State 5 to 4Encroachment or an increase in canopy cover of native coniferous tree species, and no fire will lead the Native/Invaded State (5.0) over a threshold to the Conifer State (4.0). This threshold will be crossed when tree canopy reaches approximately 25 percent or more of mature trees.
Additional community tables
Table 9. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Rhizomatous Wheatgrass 255–595 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 255–595 – thickspike wheatgrass ELLAL Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus 0–595 – 2 Cool-Season Bunchgrass 170–425 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 170–425 – needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–425 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–85 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 0–85 – 3 Mid- Warm-Season Grasses 255–425 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 85–425 – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 85–340 – plains muhly MUCU3 Muhlenbergia cuspidata 0–255 – 4 Short Warm-Season Grasses 85–170 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 34–170 – buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 17–119 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–68 – 5 Other Native Grasses 51–136 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–136 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 17–85 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 0–51 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 17–34 – Cusick's bluegrass POCU3 Poa cusickii 17–34 – onespike danthonia DAUN Danthonia unispicata 0–34 – timber oatgrass DAIN Danthonia intermedia 0–34 – Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 0–34 – 6 Grass-likes 34–119 needleleaf sedge CADU6 Carex duriuscula 34–119 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–119 – 7 Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses 0 Forb8 Forbs 85–170 bluebells MERTE Mertensia 0–170 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 17–34 – desert biscuitroot LOFO Lomatium foeniculaceum 17–34 – false boneset BREU Brickellia eupatorioides 0–34 – prairie thermopsis THRH Thermopsis rhombifolia 0–34 – groundplum milkvetch ASCR2 Astragalus crassicarpus 0–34 – milkvetch ASTRA Astragalus 17–34 – beardtongue PENST Penstemon 17–34 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 17–34 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 17–34 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–34 – pussytoes ANTEN Antennaria 0–34 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 17–34 – silverleaf Indian breadroot PEAR6 Pediomelum argophyllum 17–34 – slimflower scurfpea PSTE5 Psoralidium tenuiflorum 0–34 – leafy wildparsley MUDI Musineon divaricatum 0–34 – western wallflower ERAS2 Erysimum asperum 0–34 – white prairie aster SYFA Symphyotrichum falcatum 17 – Wyoming besseya BEWY Besseya wyomingensis 0–17 – alpine golden buckwheat ERFLF Eriogonum flavum var. flavum 0–17 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 17 – textile onion ALTE Allium textile 17 – scarlet beeblossom GACO5 Gaura coccinea 17 – Indian breadroot PEDIO2 Pediomelum 0–17 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 85–170 prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 17–170 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 17–51 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–51 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 17–51 – soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 0–34 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 0–34 – silver sagebrush ARCA13 Artemisia cana 0–34 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–34 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 17–34 – Tree10 Trees 0–34 juniper JUNIP Juniperus 0–34 – ponderosa pine PIPO Pinus ponderosa 0–34 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–34 – Tree 2TREE Tree 0–34 – Table 10. Community 1.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Rhizomatous Wheatgrass 280–560 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 280–560 – thickspike wheatgrass ELLAL Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus 0–210 – 2 Cool-Season Bunchgrass 70–210 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 70–210 – needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–70 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–70 – bluebunch wheatgrass PSSP6 Pseudoroegneria spicata 0–28 – 3 Mid- Warm-Season Grasses 70–210 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 70–210 – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 14–98 – plains muhly MUCU3 Muhlenbergia cuspidata 0–28 – 4 Short Warm-Season Grasses 98–210 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 70–210 – buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 14–98 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 14–42 – 5 Other Native Grasses 14–70 prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 14–42 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 0–42 – Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 0–42 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 14–28 – big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–28 – Cusick's bluegrass POCU3 Poa cusickii 0–14 – onespike danthonia DAUN Danthonia unispicata 0–14 – timber oatgrass DAIN Danthonia intermedia 0–14 – 6 Grass-likes 70–182 needleleaf sedge CADU6 Carex duriuscula 70–168 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–70 – 7 Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses 0 Forb8 Forbs 70–140 white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 14–42 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 14–42 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 0–42 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 14–28 – silverleaf Indian breadroot PEAR6 Pediomelum argophyllum 14–28 – white prairie aster SYFA Symphyotrichum falcatum 14–28 – desert biscuitroot LOFO Lomatium foeniculaceum 0–28 – prairie thermopsis THRH Thermopsis rhombifolia 0–28 – milkvetch ASTRA Astragalus 14–28 – beardtongue PENST Penstemon 0–14 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–14 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 0–14 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–14 – pussytoes ANTEN Antennaria 0–14 – scarlet beeblossom GACO5 Gaura coccinea 0–14 – Indian breadroot PEDIO2 Pediomelum 0–14 – false boneset BREU Brickellia eupatorioides 0–14 – bluebells MERTE Mertensia 0–14 – leafy wildparsley MUDI Musineon divaricatum 0–14 – alpine golden buckwheat ERFLF Eriogonum flavum var. flavum 0–14 – slimflower scurfpea PSTE5 Psoralidium tenuiflorum 0–14 – textile onion ALTE Allium textile 0–14 – western wallflower ERAS2 Erysimum asperum 0–14 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 70–140 prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 14–56 – soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 14–56 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–56 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 0–28 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 14–28 – silver sagebrush ARCA13 Artemisia cana 0–28 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–28 – winterfat KRLA2 Krascheninnikovia lanata 0–14 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–14 – Tree10 Trees 0–28 juniper JUNIP Juniperus 0–28 – ponderosa pine PIPO Pinus ponderosa 0–28 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–28 – Tree 2TREE Tree 0–28 – Table 11. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Rhizomatous Wheatgrass 11–88 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 11–88 – thickspike wheatgrass ELLAL Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus 0–22 – 2 Cool-Season Bunchgrass 0–55 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–55 – green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–44 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–22 – 3 Mid- Warm-Season Grasses 11–110 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 11–88 – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 0–55 – 4 Short Warm-Season Grasses 110–330 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 88–275 – buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 11–88 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–55 – 5 Other Native Grasses 11–55 squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 0–33 – Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 0–33 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 11–22 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 11–22 – onespike danthonia DAUN Danthonia unispicata 0–11 – timber oatgrass DAIN Danthonia intermedia 0–11 – 6 Grass-likes 110–330 needleleaf sedge CADU6 Carex duriuscula 110–275 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–88 – 7 Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses 22–110 Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 11–88 – cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 11–88 – field brome BRAR5 Bromus arvensis 0–55 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–55 – Forb8 Forbs 55–110 Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 11–77 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 11–44 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 11–33 – silverleaf Indian breadroot PEAR6 Pediomelum argophyllum 11–33 – white prairie aster SYFA Symphyotrichum falcatum 11–22 – prairie thermopsis THRH Thermopsis rhombifolia 0–22 – milkvetch ASTRA Astragalus 11–22 – pussytoes ANTEN Antennaria 0–22 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 11–22 – alpine golden buckwheat ERFLF Eriogonum flavum var. flavum 0–11 – textile onion ALTE Allium textile 0–11 – western wallflower ERAS2 Erysimum asperum 0–11 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 55–165 soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 11–88 – prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 33–88 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–55 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 0–22 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–22 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–22 – silver sagebrush ARCA13 Artemisia cana 0–11 – Tree10 Trees 0–22 juniper JUNIP Juniperus 0–22 – ponderosa pine PIPO Pinus ponderosa 0–22 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–22 – Tree 2TREE Tree 0–22 – Table 12. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 13. Community 4.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Rhizomatous Wheatgrass 0–39 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–39 – thickspike wheatgrass ELLAL Elymus lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus 0–13 – 2 Cool-Season Bunchgrass 26–130 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 13–104 – needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 13–91 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–26 – 3 Mid- Warm-Season Grasses 13–130 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 13–104 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–52 – plains muhly MUCU3 Muhlenbergia cuspidata 0–26 – 4 Short Warm-Season Grasses 26–130 threeawn ARIST Aristida 13–91 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 13–78 – buffalograss BODA2 Bouteloua dactyloides 0–52 – 5 Other Native Grasses 26–65 prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 13–39 – squirreltail ELEL5 Elymus elymoides 0–39 – Sandberg bluegrass POSE Poa secunda 13–26 – Grass, perennial 2GP Grass, perennial 0–26 – onespike danthonia DAUN Danthonia unispicata 0–13 – timber oatgrass DAIN Danthonia intermedia 0–13 – 6 Grass-likes 13–130 needleleaf sedge CADU6 Carex duriuscula 13–130 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–65 – 7 Non-Native Cool-Season Grasses 13–130 cheatgrass BRTE Bromus tectorum 13–104 – field brome BRAR5 Bromus arvensis 0–65 – Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 0–52 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–26 – Forb8 Forbs 39–91 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–39 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 13–39 – white prairie aster SYFA Symphyotrichum falcatum 13–26 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 13–26 – pussytoes ANTEN Antennaria 0–26 – silverleaf Indian breadroot PEAR6 Pediomelum argophyllum 0–26 – textile onion ALTE Allium textile 0–13 – scarlet globemallow SPCO Sphaeralcea coccinea 0–13 – prairie thermopsis THRH Thermopsis rhombifolia 0–13 – milkvetch ASTRA Astragalus 0–13 – bluebells MERTE Mertensia 0–13 – alpine golden buckwheat ERFLF Eriogonum flavum var. flavum 0–13 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 65–130 prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 13–78 – soapweed yucca YUGL Yucca glauca 13–65 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–52 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–39 – skunkbush sumac RHTR Rhus trilobata 0–39 – silver sagebrush ARCA13 Artemisia cana 0–13 – Wyoming big sagebrush ARTRW8 Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis 0–13 – Tree10 Trees 390–650 ponderosa pine PIPO Pinus ponderosa 325–585 – juniper JUNIP Juniperus 26–195 – bur oak QUMA2 Quercus macrocarpa 0–65 – Tree 2TREE Tree 0–65 – Table 14. Community 4.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 15. Community 5.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Interpretations
Animal community
Wildlife Interpretations:
MLRA 61 lies within the drier portion of the northern mixed-grass prairie ecosystem where sagebrush steppes to the west yield to grassland steppes to the east. Prior to European settlement, this area consisted of diverse grass- and shrubland habitats interspersed with varying densities of depressional instream wetlands and woody riparian corridors. These habitats provided critical life cycle components for many users. Many species of grassland birds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and herds of roaming bison, elk, and pronghorn were among the inhabitants adapted to this semi-arid region. Roaming herbivores, as well as several small mammal and insect species, were the primary consumers linking the grassland resources to predators such as the gray wolf, mountain lion, and grizzly bear, and smaller carnivores such as the coyote, bobcat, fox, and raptors. The prairie dog was once abundant; however, the species remains a keystone species within its range. The black-footed ferret, burrowing owl, ferruginous hawk, mountain plover, and swift fox were associated with prairie dog complexes.
Historically, the northern mixed-grass prairie was a disturbance-driven ecosystem with fire, herbivory, and climate functioning as the primary disturbance factors either singly or in combination. Following European settlement, livestock grazing, cropland conversion, elimination of fire, energy development, and other anthropogenic factors influenced species composition and abundance. Introduced and invasive species further impacted plant and animal communities. The bison was a historical keystone species but had been extirpated in this area as a free-ranging herbivore. The loss of the bison and reduction of prairie dog populations and fire as ecological drivers greatly influenced the character of the remaining native plant communities and altered wildlife habitats. Human development has reduced habitat quality for area-sensitive species.
Within MLRA 61, the Shallow Clayey ecological site provides upland grassland cover with an associated forb component. It was typically part of an expansive grassland landscape that included combinations of Clayey, Loamy, Stony Hills, Overflow, Subirrigated, and Terrace ecological sites.
This site provided habitat for species requiring unfragmented grassland. Important habitat features, and components found commonly or exclusively on this site may include sharp-tailed grouse leks; upland nesting habitat for grassland birds, forbs and insects for brood habitat; and a forage source for small and large herbivores. Many grassland and shrub steppe nesting bird populations are declining. Extirpated species include free-ranging American bison, grizzly bear, gray wolf, black-footed ferret, mountain plover, Rocky Mountain locust, and swift fox.
The majority of the Shallow Clayey ecological site has remained relatively intact and provides increasingly important habitat for grassland and shrub steppe nesting birds, small rodents, coyote, and a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, and annual brome grasses have impacted the biological integrity of the site for some grassland birds. Changes in historic fire regime and domestic grazing have impacted the forb/shrub/grass percentages.
Grazing Interpretations:
The following list suggests annual, initial stocking rates for average growing conditions. These estimates are conservative and should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of conservation planning. Commonly, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ecological site description). Therefore, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. More accurate estimates of carrying capacity 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. In consultation with the land manager, a more intensive grazing management program that results in improved harvest efficiencies and increased carrying capacity may be developed.
The following suggested initial stocking rates are based on 912 lb/acre (air-dry weight) per animal-unit-month (AUM) with a 25 percent harvest efficiency of preferred and desirable forage species (refer to USDA-NRCS, National Range and Pasture Handbook). An AUM is defined as the equivalent amount of forage required by a 1,000-pound cow, with or without calf, for one month.
Plant Community: Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem (1.1)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): 1,700
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): 0.47
Plant Community: Rhizomatous Wheatgrass-Grama-Little Bluestem (1.2)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): 1,400
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): 0.38
Plant Community: Sedge/Blue Grama/Fringed Sagewort (2.1)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): 1,100*
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): 0.30*
Plant Community: Ponderosa Pine-Juniper/Green Needlegrass-Little Bluestem (4.1)
Average Production (lb/acre, air-dry): 1,300**
Stocking Rate (AUM/acre): 0.19**
Plant Community: All other plant communities identified in this document have variable annual production values and require onsite sampling to determine initial stocking rates.
* Total annual production and stocking rates are highly variable and require onsite sampling.
** Total onsite annual production may contain vegetation deemed undesirable or untargeted by the grazing animal. Therefore, AUM values may have been reduced to reflect only preferred or desirable forage species.
Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage for livestock. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock likely have insufficient protein to meet livestock requirements. Added protein allows 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 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 shortgrass forms a strong sod and dominate the site. Dominance by blue grama, buffalograss, bluegrass, and smooth brome 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 the USDA-NRCS National Engineering Handbook, Part 630, for hydrologic soil groups, runoff quantities, and hydrologic curves.
Recreational uses
This site provides hunting opportunities for upland game species. The wide variety of plants that bloom from spring until fall have aesthetic value that are appealing to visitors.
Wood products
No appreciable wood products are typically present on this site.
Other products
Harvesting the seeds of native plants can provide additional income on this site.
Other information
Revision Notes: “Previously Approved” Provisional
This Provisional ecological site description (ESD) has passed Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) to ensure the it meets the 2014 NESH standards for a Provisional ecological site description.
This ESD is an updated “Previously Approved” ESD that represented a first-generation tier of documentation that, prior to the release of the 2014 National Ecological Site Handbook (NESH), met all requirements as an “Approved” ESD as laid out in the 1997 National Range and Pasture Handbook (NRPH). The document fully described the Reference State and Community Phase in the State-and-Transition model. All other alternative states are at least described in narrative form. The “Previously Approved” ESD has been field-tested for a minimum of five years and is a proven functional document for conservation planning. The “Previously Approved” ESD may not contain all tabular and narrative entries as required in the current “Approved” level of documentation, but it is expected that it will continue refinement toward an “Approved” status.
Site Development and Testing Plan
Future work, as described in an official project plan, is necessary to validate the information in this provisional ecological site description. The plan will include field activities for low-, medium-, and high-intensity sampling, soil correlations, and analysis of the data. Annual field reviews should be done by soil scientists and vegetation specialists. Final field review, peer review, quality control, and quality assurance reviews are required to produce the final document.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; Cynthia Englebert, Range Management Specialist, Forest Service; George Gamblin, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Ryan Murray, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Cheryl Nielsen, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; L. Michael Stirling, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; Jim Westerman, Soil Scientist, NRCS.
Other references
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U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2018. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center. http://nasis.nrcs.usda.gov (accessed 25 May 2018.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2018. PLANTS database. National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC. http://plants.usda.gov (accessed 27 December 2018).
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2007. National engineering handbook, part 654. Rosgen Stream Classification Technique – Supplemental Materials, Technical Supplement 3E. https://directives.sc.egov.usda.gov/OpenNonWebContent.aspx?content=17833.wba (accessed 4 March 2019).
Vore Buffalo Jump Foundation. 2019. Vore Buffalo Jump. https://www.vorebuffalojump.org/content/ (accessed 20 June 2019).Contributors
Stan C. Boltz
Rick L. PetersonApproval
Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 7/17/2024
Acknowledgments
All ecological sites were written to the Provisional Level by Rick L. Peterson, ESS, Rapid City, SSO in FY20. The ESDs were reviewed for quality control by Emily Helms, John Hartung, Mitch Faulkner, and Ryan Murray. All ecological sites were then reviewed and approved at the Provisional Level by David Kraft, Regional ESS, Salina, KS in September 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 at https://www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer 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. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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) Stan Boltz Contact for lead author Stan Boltz, stanley.boltz@sd.usda.gov, 605-352-1236 Date 09/30/2009 Approved by Approval date Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on Annual Production Indicators
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Number and extent of rills:
If present, rills are short (roughly 6 inches long or less), sporadic, and discontinuous. Typically on steeper slopes. -
Presence of water flow patterns:
None, or barely visible and discontinuous with numerous debris dams when present. -
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Few pedastalled plants typically on steeper slopes. Terracettes not present. -
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground normally less than 15 percent, and patches 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):
Small size litter classes will generally move short distances, some medium size class litter will move very short distances. Litter debris dams are occasionally present. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Soil aggregate stability ratings should typically be 4 to 6. Surface organic matter adheres to the soil surface. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Soil surface structure is typically granular, and mollic (higher organic matter) colors of A-horizon about 3 inches deep. If conditions are other than this, refer to map unit component descriptions for component on which the site occurs. -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Combination of shallow and deep rooted species (mid & tall rhizomatous and tufted perennial cool- and warm-season grasses) with fine and coarse roots positively influences infiltration. -
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
None – when dry, B horizons can be hard and appear to be compacted, but no platy structure will be present. -
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:
Wheatgrasses (mid, cool-season rhizomatous grasses ) >Sub-dominant:
Mid and tall, cool-season bunchgrasses = mid, warm-season grasses >Other:
Short, warm-season grasses = forbs = shrubs > grass-likes species > treesAdditional:
Other grasses occur in other functional groups in minor amounts. -
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Very little evidence of decadence or mortality. Bunch grasses have strong, healthy centers and shrubs are vigorous. -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
60 to 70 percent plant litter cover, roughly 0.25 to 0.5 inch depth. Litter cover is in contact with soil surface. -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
Ranges from 1,300 to 2,200 pounds/acre. Reference value is 1,700 pounds/acre (air-dry weight basis). -
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:
All species exhibit high vigor relative to climatic conditions. Do not rate based solely on seed production. Perennial grasses typically have vigorous rhizomes or tillers.
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PrintThe Ecosystem Dynamics Interpretive Tool is an information system framework developed by the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and New Mexico State University.
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