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Ecological site R102BY014SD
Shallow To Gravel
Last updated: 2/01/2024
Accessed: 06/28/2026
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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.
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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): 102B–Till Plains
The Till Plains (102B) is located within the Western Lake Section of the Central Lowland Province of the Interior Plains. It is entirely in South Dakota, encompassing 2,215 square miles (Figure 1). The elevation ranges from 1,140 to 1,880 feet. The MLRA is characterized by glaciated, nearly level to hilly plains populated by stagnation and end moraines, glacial outwash terraces, and floodplains as the major landforms. The dominant parent materials are silty drift, glacial till, glacial outwash, and alluvium. (USDA-NRCS 2006)
The dominant soil order in this MLRA is Mollisols. The soils in the area dominantly have a mesic temperature regime, a udic ustic moisture regime and mixed or smectitic mineralogy. They generally are very deep, well drained to poorly drained, and clayey or loamy. This area is in the western area of the tall grass prairie and supports big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans), porcupine grass (Hesperostipa spartea), and green needlegrass (Nassella viridula) as the dominant native species. Cattails (Typha), prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinate), bulrush (Cyperaceae) and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea) are commonly found on the poorly drained soils. (USDA-NRCS, 2006).Classification relationships
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): Till Plains (102B) (USDA-NRCS, 2006)
USFS Subregions: North Central Glaciated Plains Section (251B); Outer Coteau des Prairies (251Bb); Yankton Hills and Valleys (251Bf); Northwest Iowa Plains (251Bd); (Cleland et al., 2007).
US EPA Level IV Ecoregion: Prairie Coteau (46k); James River Lowland (46n); Loess Prairies (47a); Big Sioux Basin (46m) - (USEPA, 2013)Ecological site concept
The Shallow to Gravel ecological site typically occurs in the upland areas, but some may be located on a higher floodplain. Soils are somewhat excessively drained and have sand and gravel within 10 to 20 inches of the soil surface. In some areas the surface layer may be stony to extremely stony. The water holding capacity of the sand and gravel is low, leaving less soil moisture for plant growth, production is lower, and species composition will tend towards more drought-tolerant plants. The slopes can range from 0 to 25 percent.
Vegetation in the Reference State includes needle and thread, little bluestem, and prairie dropseed. Forbs include cudweed sagewort, prairie coneflower, and Cuman ragweed. Non-native grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome may invade the site due to changes in disturbance regime.Associated sites
R102BY009SD Sandy
These sites occur on upland areas. The soils are well to moderately well drained and have surface and subsoil textures which are sandy loam, fine sandy loam, and loamy very fine sand. The central concept soil series are Blendon and Henkin, but other series are included.
R102BY010SD Loamy
These sites occur on upland areas. The soils are well drained and have sand and gravel at a depth of greater than 20 inches below the soil surface. The central concept soil series is Enet, but other series are included.
R102BY012SD Thin Upland
These sites occur on upland areas. The soils are well drained and will effervesce with acid at or near the surface. The central concept soil series are Betts and Ethan, but other series are included.
R102BY016SD Very Shallow
These sites occur on upland areas. The soils are excessively drained and have sand and gravel within 10 inches of the soil surface. The central concept soil series is Talmo, but other series are included.
Similar sites
R102BY010SD Loamy
The Loamy site occurs in a similar landscape position and does not have sand and gravel within 10 to 20 inches of the soil surface. The Loamy site will have more big bluestem, less needleandthread and higher production than the Shallow Gravel site.
R102BY009SD Sandy
The Sandy site occurs in a similar landscape position and does not have sand and gravel within 10 to 20 inches of the soil surface. The Sandy site will have more big bluestem and higher production than the Shallow Gravel site.
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub Not specified
Herbaceous (1) Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata
(2) Hesperostipa sparteaPhysiographic features
The Shallow to gravel site occurs on gently to moderately sloping uplands.
Figure 2. Site Distribution Map.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Outwash terrace
(2) Outwash plain
Flooding frequency None Ponding frequency None Elevation 1100 – 1900 ft Slope 1 – 15 % Water table depth 80 in Aspect Aspect is not a significant factor Climatic features
Major Land Resource Area 102B is considered to have a continental climate with cold winters and relatively hot summers, low to moderate humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature may also abound. The climate is the result of the location of this MLRA near the geographic center of North America. There are few natural barriers on the Northern Great Plains and air masses move freely across the plains and account for rapid changes in temperature.
Annual precipitation typically ranges from 24 to 26 inches per year. The average annual temperature is about 46°F. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from about 14°F (Wentworth 2 WNW, South Dakota, to about 18°F (Canton 4 WNW, SD). July is the warmest month with temperatures averaging from about 72°F (Wentworth 2 WNW, SD), to about 73°F (Canton 4 WNW, SD). The range of normal average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 57°F. This large annual range attests to the continental nature of the climate of this area. 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 strong storms may bring brief periods of high winds with gusts to more than 50 mph.
Growth of cool-season plants begins in early to mid-March, slowing or ceasing in late June. Warm-season plants begin growth about mid-May and continue to early or mid-September. Green-up of cool-season plants may occur in September and October when adequate soil moisture is present.Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (characteristic range) 130-130 days Freeze-free period (characteristic range) 140-140 days Precipitation total (characteristic range) 30-30 in Frost-free period (actual range) 120-130 days Freeze-free period (actual range) 140-140 days Precipitation total (actual range) 30-30 in Frost-free period (average) 130 days Freeze-free period (average) 140 days Precipitation total (average) 30 in Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 3. Monthly precipitation range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 4. Monthly minimum temperature range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 5. Monthly maximum temperature range
BarLineFigure 6. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
Figure 7. Annual precipitation pattern
Figure 8 Annual average temperature pattern
Climate stations used
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(1) MONTROSE 8N [USC00395738], Montrose, SD
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(2) MADISON 2SE [USC00395090], Madison, SD
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(3) WENTWORTH 2.5 WNW [USC00399042], Wentworth, SD
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(4) CANTON [USC00391392], Canton, SD
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(5) CENTERVILLE 6 SE [USC00391579], Beresford, SD
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(6) VERMILLION 2 SE [USC00398622], Vermillion, SD
">Influencing water features
No riparian areas or wetland features are directly associated with this site.
Soil features
These soils are very deep and somewhat excessively well drained. Soil textures include moderately coarse and medium textured soils over sand or sand and gravel between the depths of 15 to 25 inches. Permeability is moderate in the upper part and very rapid in the lower part. Available water capacity is moderate in the upper part and low to very low in the lower part. This site occurs on flats, rises, and side slopes on outwash plains and terraces. Slope ranges from 1 to 15 percent. Runoff as evidenced by patterns of rill, gully, or other water flow is negligible to low, in spite of the slopes, due to the very high intake rate of these soils. Some pedestalling of plants occurs but it is not very evident on casual observation and occurs on less than 5 percent of the plants.
The central concept soil series for this site is Delmont, but other series are included.
These soils are susceptible to wind and water erosion. The hazard of wind erosion is more likely with a loss of vegetative cover. Loss of 50 percent or more of the surface layer of the soils on this site can result in a shift in species composition or production.Table 4. Representative soil features
Surface texture (1) Loam
Family particle size (1) Sandy
Drainage class Somewhat excessively drained Permeability class Moderate Soil depth 80 in Surface fragment cover <=3" 5 – 6 % Surface fragment cover >3" Not specified Available water capacity
(0-40in)4 in Calcium carbonate equivalent
(0-40in)0 – 10 % Electrical conductivity
(0-40in)0 – 2 mmhos/cm Sodium adsorption ratio
(0-40in)Not specified Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-40in)6.1 – 8.4 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(Depth not specified)10 – 30 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(Depth not specified)0 – 2 % Ecological dynamics
The information in this Ecological Site Description, including the state-and-transition model (STM), was developed based on historical data, current field data, professional experience, and a review of the scientific literature. As a result, all possible scenarios or plant species may not be included. Key indicator plant species, disturbances, and ecological processes are described to inform land management decisions.
The site which is located in the Till Plains Region 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 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 Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed 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 to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts also have been considered.
This ecological site (ES) has been grazed by domestic livestock since they have been introduced into the area. The introduction of domestic livestock and the use of fencing and reliable water sources have changed the ecological dynamics of this site. Heavy continuous grazing (season-long grazing during the typical growing season of April through October and/or repeated seasonal grazing during the same time of year each year) without adequate recovery periods following grazing events causes a departure from the 2.1 Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase. Sedge (Carex) and blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) will increase and eventually develop into a sod. Little bluestem will increase initially and then begin to decrease. Needle and Thread, porcupinegrass, sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), and little bluestem will decrease in frequency and production. Extended periods of non-use and/or lack of fire will result in excessive litter and a plant community dominated by cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) and smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis).
Following the state-and-transition diagram 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. The plant composition tables shown below 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
Custom diagramStandard diagram
Figure 9. State-and-Transition Model and Legend for the Shallow to Gravel Site in MLRA 66
Figure 10. Matrix for the Shallow to Gravel Site in MLRA 66
More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective textState 1 submodel, plant communities
State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
State 4 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference StateThe Reference State represents the natural range of variability that dominated the dynamics of this ecological site (ES). This state was codominated by warm- and cool-season grasses. The primary disturbance mechanisms for this site in the Reference condition included frequent fire and grazing by large herding ungulates. Timing of fires and grazing coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. Mid- and tall-statured grass species can decline and a corresponding increase in short-statured warm-season and cool-season grass-like species will occur.
Community 1.1
Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed
Figure 11. Typical field of needle and thread, little bluestem, and prairie dropseed in the Shallow to Gravel ecological site in MLRA 102B.
Interpretations are based primarily on the 1.1 Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase. This community phase was the most dominant both temporally and spatially. The prevailing climate and weather patterns favored the development of this community phase dominated by mid- and tall cool- and warm-season grasses such as needle and thread, little bluestem, prairie dropseed, and blue grama. Other grass and grass-likes species occurring include big bluestem, threadleaf sedge (Carex filifolia), porcupinegrass (Hesperostipa spartea), plains muhly (Muhlenbergia cuspidata), western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), prairie Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha), and sand dropseed (Sporobolus cryptandrus). The vegetation consisted of about 75 percent grass and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. A variety of leguminous and non-leguminous perennial forbs are present in minor amounts. This is a naturally nitrogen-deficient plant community.
This plant community was resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allowed for high tolerance to drought. This was a sustainable plant community in regards to site and soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Transitions or pathways leading to other plant communities are as follows:Figure 12. 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 1630 2268 2610 Forb 120 270 480 Shrub/Vine 50 162 310 Total 1800 2700 3400 Figure 13. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0214 , Till Plains, warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant.. Warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 3 7 17 25 25 15 7 1 0 0 Community 1.2
Blue Grama-Threadleaf Sedge-Needle and ThreadThis plant community evolved under heavy continuous grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community was made up of approximately 75 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. Dominant grass and grass-like species included blue grama, sideoats grama, threadleaf sedge, and needle and thread. Grasses of secondary importance included porcupinegrass, sand dropseed, little bluestem, western wheatgrass, hairy grama (Bouteloua hirsuta), and threeawn (Aristida). Forbs commonly found in this plant community included cudweed sagewort (Artemisia ludoviciana), prairie coneflower (Ratibida columnifera), and Cuman ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya).
This plant community had similar plant composition to the 2.2 Blue Grama-Threadleaf Sedge-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase. The main difference is that this plant community phase did not have the presence of non-native invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass.
When compared to the 1.1 Needle and thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase, threadleaf sedge, and blue grama increased. Big bluestem and needlegrasses decreased and production of mid- and tall warm-season grasses was also reduced. This plant community was moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present were well adapted to grazing; however, species composition could be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component was intact, it tended to be resilient if the disturbance was not long-term.Figure 14. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0213 , Till Plains, cool-season/warm-season codominant.. Cool-season, warm-season codominant..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 3 10 20 28 21 10 5 3 0 0 Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2Heavy, 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 1.2 Blue Grama-Threadleaf Sedge-Needle and thread Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1Prescribed grazing, and prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (every 3 to 5 years) and 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 Needle and thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase.
State 2
Native/Invaded StateThis state is very similar to the Reference State. The invasion of introduced cool-season sodgrasses has altered the natural range of variability for this ecological site (ES). The Native/Invaded State still has strong components of both warm- and cool-season grass species, but invasive introduced cool-season sodgrasses are now present in all community phases of this state. The primary disturbance mechanisms for this state include grazing by domestic livestock and a lack of fire. Timing of fires and grazing coupled with weather events dictate the dynamics that occur within this state. The mid- and tall warm- and cool-season native grasses can decline and an increase in introduced sodgrasses will occur. Many times, this state appears as a mosaic of community phases caused primarily by continuous season-long grazing.
Community 2.1
Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie DropseedThis community phase most closely resembles the Reference State in appearance and ecological functions (e.g., hydrologic, biotic, and soil and site stability). The warm- and cool-season co-dominated community is maintained with grazing systems that allow for adequate recovery periods following grazing events and potentially the combination of grazing and prescribed burning which closely mimics the natural disturbance regime.
This community phase closely resembles the 1.1 Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase. The basic difference is the presence of minor amounts of introduced cool-season grasses and forbs. This is likely a naturally nitrogen deficient plant community. A change in the nutrient cycle on this ES possibly due to the introduction of non-native species may be a causative factor leading to the eventual dominance of cool-season introduced grasses in the Invaded State (State 3).Figure 15. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0214 , Till Plains, warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant.. Warm-season dominant, cool-season subdominant..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 3 7 17 25 25 15 7 1 0 0 Community 2.2
Blue Grama-Threadleaf Sedge-Kentucky BluegrassGrazing pressure reduces the mid and tall, less grazing-tolerant species, while the shorter more grazing-tolerant species increase. Litter amounts are reduced and energy capture shifts to slightly earlier in the growing season due to a decline in the later maturing native grass component and an increase in the earlier maturing grass-likes and nonnative grasses. Kentucky bluegrass increases and may approach dominance in this community. Vegetation consists of about 75 percent grass and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 10 percent shrubs. Blue grama, threadleaf sedge, Kentucky bluegrass, and fringed sagewort (Artemisia frigida) are the dominant species in the early stages of this community phase. Significant grass species include Kentucky bluegrass, needle and thread, threeawn (Aristida), and sand dropseed. Other grasses present include western wheatgrass, porcupinegrass, and prairie Junegrass. The common forbs include cudweed sagewort, goldenrod (Oligoneuron), green sagewort (Artemisia campestris), heath aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides), and scurfpea (Cullen). Fringed sagewort (Artemisia frigida), brittle cactus (Opuntia fragilis), plains pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha), and rose (Rosa spp.) are the principal shrubs.
This community phase is often dispersed throughout the pasture, in an overgrazed/undergrazed pattern, typically referred to as patch grazing. Some areas (overgrazed) will exhibit the impacts of heavy use, while other areas (undergrazed) will have a build-up of litter and a high amount of plant decadence. This is a typical pattern found in properly stocked pastures grazed season-long. In the undergrazed patches, litter buildup reduces plant vigor and density and native seedling recruitment declines. Due to a lack of tiller stimulation and sunlight, native bunchgrasses typically develop dead centers and native rhizomatous grasses are limited to small colonies. In the overgrazed patches, plant vigor is reduced and the competitive advantage goes towards the grazing tolerant short-statured species such as Kentucky bluegrass and sedge.
This community phase is approaching the threshold which would readily lead to the Invaded State. If management is significantly altered, this community phase can still be reverted back to the 2.1 Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed community phase. Grazing management that allows for adequate recovery periods will tend to restore the ecological functions of this site.
Fire can play a role in reducing the introduced cool-season species. The combination of grazing and fire may be the most effective in moving this community phase toward a community resembling the interpretive plant community. Soil erosion is low. Infiltration is reduced, while runoff is increased compared to the interpretive plant community.Figure 16. 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 1055 1586 2055 Forb 90 190 330 Shrub/Vine 55 124 215 Total 1200 1900 2600 Figure 17. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0213 , Till Plains, cool-season/warm-season codominant.. Cool-season, warm-season codominant..
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec J F M A M J J A S O N D 0 0 3 10 20 28 21 10 5 3 0 0 Pathway 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 Blue Grama-Threadleaf Sedge-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 2.2A
Community 2.2 to 2.1Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 2.1 Needle and Thread-Little Bluestem-Prairie Dropseed Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing State 3
Invaded StateThis state is the result of invasion and dominance of introduced cool-season sodgrasses. The Invaded State is characterized by the dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass and an increasing thatch layer that effectively blocks introduction of other plants into the system. Once the state is well established, even drastic events such as high intensity fires driven by high fuel loads of litter and thatch will not result in more than a very short-term reduction of these two species. These events may reduce the dominance of the sodgrasses, but due to the large amount of rhizomes in the soil, there is no opportunity for the native species to establish and dominate before the sodgrasses rebound and again dominate the system. Plant litter accumulation tends to favor the more shade-tolerant introduced grass species. The nutrient cycle is also impaired and the result is typically a higher level of nitrogen which also favors the introduced species. Increasing plant litter decreases the amount of sunlight reaching plant crowns, thereby shifting competitive advantage to shade-tolerant introduced grass species. Studies indicate that soil biological activity is altered and this shift apparently exploits the soil microclimate and encourages growth of the introduced grass species. Once the threshold is crossed, a change in grazing management alone cannot cause a reduction in sodgrass dominance. Preliminary studies indicate this threshold may exist when Kentucky bluegrass exceeds 30 percent of the plant community and native grasses represent less than 40 percent of the plant community composition.
Community 3.1
Kentucky Bluegrass-Smooth BromegrassThis plant community phase is a result of extended periods of non-use and no fire. It is characterized by a dominance of smooth bromegrass and Kentucky bluegrass. The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A thick duff layer also accumulates at or above the soil surface and eventually a thatch-mat layer may develop at the surface. Nutrient cycling is greatly reduced and native plants have great difficulty becoming established. When dominated by smooth bromegrass, infiltration is moderately reduced and runoff is moderate. Production can be equal to or higher than the interpretive plant community. However, when dominated by Kentucky bluegrass, infiltration is greatly reduced and runoff is high. Production in this case likely will be significantly less. In either case, the period that palatability is high is relatively short, as these cool-season species mature rapidly. Energy capture is also reduced.
Figure 18. 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 1290 1980 2505 Shrub/Vine 105 240 420 Forb 105 180 275 Total 1500 2400 3200 Figure 19. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0211 , Till Plains, cool-season dominant.. Cool-season 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 0 0 4 12 25 36 10 5 4 4 0 0 Community 3.2
Kentucky Bluegrass Sod-ForbsThis plant community phase is a result of heavy, continuous seasonal grazing or heavy, continuous season-long grazing. It is characterized by a dominance of Kentucky bluegrass, sedge, and blue grama. The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A relatively thick duff layer can sometimes accumulate at or above the soil surface and a thatch-mat layer often develops at the surface. Nutrient cycling is greatly reduced and native plants have great difficulty becoming established. Infiltration is greatly reduced and runoff is high. Production will be significantly reduced when compared to the interpretive plant community. The period that palatability is high is relatively short as Kentucky bluegrass matures rapidly. Energy capture is also reduced. Biological activity in the soil is likely significantly reduced in this phase.
Figure 20. 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 795 1162 1590 Forb 135 225 345 Shrub/Vine 70 113 165 Total 1000 1500 2100 Figure 21. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0211 , Till Plains, cool-season dominant.. Cool-season 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 0 0 4 12 25 36 10 5 4 4 0 0 Community 3.3
Annual Pioneer-Perennial PioneerThis plant community developed under continuous heavy grazing or other excessive disturbances (e.g., heavy use areas, defoliation by rodents, etc.). 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. This community can be renovated to improve the production capability; however, if management changes are not made the vegetation could revert back to invasive or early seral species.
Pathway 3.1A
Community 3.1 to 3.2Heavy, 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 3.2 Kentucky Bluegrass Sod-Forbs Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 3.3A
Community 3.3 to 3.2This community pathway occurs with the passage of time as successional processes take place and perennial plants gradually begin to establish on the site again. This pathway will lead to the 3.2 Kentucky Bluegrass Sod-Forbs Plant Community Phase.
State 4
Crop Production StateThis state is characterized by the production of annual crops using a variety of tillage and cropping systems along with management practices.
Community 4.1
Annual CropsThis plant community developed with the use of a variety of tillage systems and cropping systems for the production of annual crops including corn, soybeans, wheat, and a variety of other crops.
Transition T1A
State 1 to 2Non-use and no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years) causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density, and/or heavy continuous grazing or invasion of non-native plant species will likely lead this state over a threshold resulting in the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Transition T1B
State 1 to 4Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 4).
Transition T2A, T2B
State 2 to 3Non-use and no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 or more years) causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density, will likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 3.1 Kentucky Bluegrass-Smooth Bromegrass Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3). Heavy 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), will likely lead this state over a threshold leading to the 3.2 Kentucky Bluegrass Sod-Forbs Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3). Grazing repeatedly in the early growing season can expedite this shift by causing mechanical disturbance due to trampling.
Transition T2C
State 2 to 4Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 4).
Restoration pathway T3A, T3B
State 3 to 2Long term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as a high-density and low-frequency system intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) coupled with prescribed burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (3 to 5 years) and a return to normal disturbance regime levels may lead the 3.1 Kentucky Bluegrass-Smooth Bromegrass Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2). Seeding followed by long-term prescribed grazing (moderate stocking levels coupled with adequate recovery periods, or other grazing systems such as high-density, low-frequency intended to treat specific species dominance, or periodic light to moderate stocking levels possibly including periodic rest) may lead this Invaded State (State 3) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Transition T3C
State 3 to 4Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 4).
Restoration pathway T4A
State 4 to 2Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 4) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Restoration pathway T4B, T4C
State 4 to 3Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 4) over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 3). Cropping followed by abandonment may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 3) and more specifically to the 3.3 Annual Pioneer-Perennial Pioneer Plant Community Phase.
Additional community tables
Table 9. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Cool-season Bunchgrasses 270–810 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 135–810 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 135–810 – green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–81 – Canada wildrye ELCA4 Elymus canadensis 0–81 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 270–810 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 135–540 – prairie dropseed SPHE Sporobolus heterolepis 54–405 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 27–135 – plains muhly MUCU3 Muhlenbergia cuspidata 27–135 – 3 Tall Warm-season Grasses 54–405 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 54–405 – prairie sandreed CALO Calamovilfa longifolia 0–135 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 0–135 – 4 Short Warm-season Grasses 54–270 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 27–270 – hairy grama BOHI2 Bouteloua hirsuta 27–270 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 0–81 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–54 – 5 Grass-likes 54–270 threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 54–189 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–135 – 6 Wheatgrass 0–135 slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–135 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–135 – 7 Other Native Grasses 54–135 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–81 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 27–81 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 27–54 – Forb8 Forbs 135–405 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 27–135 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 27–81 – blazing star LIATR Liatris 27–81 – wild bergamot MOFI Monarda fistulosa 0–54 – northern bedstraw GABO2 Galium boreale 0–54 – scarlet beeblossom GACO5 Gaura coccinea 27–54 – stiff sunflower HEPA19 Helianthus pauciflorus 27–54 – anemone ANEMO Anemone 0–54 – field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 27–54 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 27–54 – false boneset BREU Brickellia eupatorioides 0–54 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 27–54 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 27–54 – cutleaf anemone PUPAM Pulsatilla patens ssp. multifida 0–54 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 27–54 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 27–54 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 27–54 – aromatic aster SYOB Symphyotrichum oblongifolium 0–54 – hoary verbena VEST Verbena stricta 0–54 – American vetch VIAM Vicia americana 27–54 – milkvetch ASTRA Astragalus 0–27 – pussytoes ANTEN Antennaria 0–27 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 0–27 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 0–27 – purple locoweed OXLA3 Oxytropis lambertii 0–27 – lacy tansyaster MAPI Machaeranthera pinnatifida 0–27 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 54–270 leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 27–135 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–81 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–81 – prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 0–54 – pricklypear OPUNT Opuntia 0–54 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 27–54 – Table 10. Community 1.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 11. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 12. Community 2.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Cool-season Bunchgrasses 38–285 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 38–285 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 0–95 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 38–285 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 19–190 – prairie dropseed SPHE Sporobolus heterolepis 0–95 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–95 – plains muhly MUCU3 Muhlenbergia cuspidata 0–57 – 3 Tall Warm-season Grasses 0–57 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–38 – prairie sandreed CALO Calamovilfa longifolia 0–38 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 0–19 – 4 Short Warm-season Grasses 190–475 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 95–475 – hairy grama BOHI2 Bouteloua hirsuta 19–475 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 0–95 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–76 – 5 Grass-likes 95–380 threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 95–342 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–133 – 6 Wheatgrass 0–38 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–38 – 7 Other Native Grasses 38–95 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–57 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 19–38 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 19–38 – 8 Non-Native Grasses 95–380 Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 95–380 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–95 – Forb9 Forbs 95–285 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–76 – field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 19–76 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 19–76 – blazing star LIATR Liatris 19–57 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 19–57 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 19–57 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 19–57 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 19–57 – hoary verbena VEST Verbena stricta 0–38 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 0–38 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 0–38 – pussytoes ANTEN Antennaria 0–19 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–19 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 0–19 – scarlet beeblossom GACO5 Gaura coccinea 0–19 – stiff sunflower HEPA19 Helianthus pauciflorus 0–19 – American vetch VIAM Vicia americana 0–19 – aromatic aster SYOB Symphyotrichum oblongifolium 0–19 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–19 – wild bergamot MOFI Monarda fistulosa 0–19 – purple locoweed OXLA3 Oxytropis lambertii 0–19 – Shrub/Vine10 Shrub 57–190 prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 19–76 – pricklypear OPUNT Opuntia 19–57 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–57 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 19–38 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–38 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–38 – Table 13. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Cool-season Bunchgrasses 0–120 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–120 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 0–72 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–72 – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 0–48 – 3 Short Warm-season Grasses 24–240 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 24–168 – hairy grama BOHI2 Bouteloua hirsuta 0–96 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 0–96 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–24 – 4 Grass-likes 48–240 threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 48–240 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–120 – 5 Wheatgrass 0–48 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–48 – 6 Other Native Grasses 24–120 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–72 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 24–48 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–24 – 7 Non-Native Grasses 720–1680 smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 360–1320 – Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 360–1320 – Forb8 Forbs 120–240 Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 24–72 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 24–72 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–48 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 24–48 – field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 24–48 – blazing star LIATR Liatris 24–48 – wild bergamot MOFI Monarda fistulosa 24–48 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 24–48 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 24–48 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 24–48 – aromatic aster SYOB Symphyotrichum oblongifolium 0–24 – hoary verbena VEST Verbena stricta 0–24 – American vetch VIAM Vicia americana 0–24 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–24 – purple locoweed OXLA3 Oxytropis lambertii 0–24 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 0–24 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–24 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 0–24 – scarlet beeblossom GACO5 Gaura coccinea 0–24 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 120–360 snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 24–240 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 24–96 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–72 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–72 – prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 24–72 – pricklypear OPUNT Opuntia 0–48 – Table 14. Community 3.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Mid Warm-season Grasses 0–75 sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–75 – 2 Short Warm-season Grasses 15–225 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–225 – hairy grama BOHI2 Bouteloua hirsuta 0–120 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 0–90 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 15–75 – 3 Grass-likes 75–195 threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 75–195 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–75 – 4 Other Native Grasses 0–30 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–30 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 0–15 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–15 – 5 Non-Native Grasses 450–1050 Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 450–1050 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–150 – Forb6 Forbs 150–300 Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 15–105 – field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 15–75 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 15–75 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 15–75 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 15–75 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 0–45 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 15–45 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 15–45 – blazing star LIATR Liatris 0–30 – hoary verbena VEST Verbena stricta 0–30 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–15 – pussytoes ANTEN Antennaria 0–15 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–15 – Shrub/Vine7 Shrubs 75–150 prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 15–90 – pricklypear OPUNT Opuntia 15–75 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–45 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 15–30 – Table 15. Community 3.3 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 16. Community 4.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Interpretations
Animal community
Animal Community – Grazing Interpretations
The following table lists annual, suggested initial stocking rates with average growing conditions. These are conservative estimates that should be used only as guidelines in the initial stages of conservation planning. Often, the current plant composition does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in this ES description). Because of this, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. More accurate carrying capacity estimates should eventually be calculated using the following stocking rate information along with animal preference data and actual stocking records, particularly when grazers other than cattle are involved. With consultation of the land manager, more intensive grazing management may result in improved harvest efficiencies and increased carrying capacity. 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.
Needlegrass/Bluestem/Prairie Dropseed (1.1 & 2.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,700
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.74
Grama/Sedge/Kentucky Bluegrass (2.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1,900
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.52
Kentucky Bluegrass/Smooth Bromegrass (3.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2,400
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.66
Kentucky Bluegrass Sod/Forbs (3.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1,500
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.41
Annual/Pioneer, Non-Native Perennial (3.3)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 900
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.25
*Based on 912 lbs./acre (air-dry weight) per Animal Unit Month (AUM), and on 25 percent harvest efficiency (refer to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Range and Pasture Handbook).
Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock will likely be lacking protein to meet livestock requirements and added protein will allow ruminants to better utilize the energy stored in grazed plant materials. A forage quality test (either directly or through fecal sampling) should be used to determine the level of supplementation needed.Hydrological functions
Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic group B. Infiltration and runoff potential for this site varies from moderate to high depending on soil hydrologic group, slope, and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75 percent ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. An example of an exception would be where shortgrasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Dominance by blue grama, 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 opportunities for hunting, hiking, photography, bird watching and other activities. The wide variety 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:
• SD125 Turner County, SD did not use the (DgB) Delmont-Graceville complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes (national symbol fzjt) as used in the adjoining SD083 Lincoln County, SD.
• SD125 Turner County, SD did not use the (DmB) Delmont-Enet loams, 2 to 6 percent slopes (national symbol gymf) as used in the adjoining SD027 Clay County, SD.
• Reference and alternative states within the state and transition model are may not be fully documented and may require additional field sampling for refinement.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; and Bruce Kunze, Soil Scientist, NRCS. Data Source Sample Period State County None
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 Endangered Ecosystem. Washington, DC: 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. 214.
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. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, accessed 27 March 2018). National Plant Data Team.
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 1 March 2018).
High Plains Regional Climate Center, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE. http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/
USDA, NRCS. National Water and Climate Center, Portland, OR. http://wcc.nrcs.usda.gov
USDA, NRCS. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center, Fort Collins, CO. http://nasis.nrcs.usda.govContributors
Megan Baxter
Stan BoltzApproval
Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 2/01/2024
Acknowledgments
Contact for Lead Authors: Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), Redfield Soil Survey Office, Redfield, SD & Stanton Soil Survey Office, Stanton, NE; Lance Howe (Lance.Howe@usda.gov), Soil Survey Office Leader, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD; Steve Winter (Steven.Winter@usda.gov), Soil Scientist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD; and Greg Clark (Greg.Clark@usda.gov), Soil Survey Office Leader, USDA-NRCS, Stanton, NE. 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. It was officially approved for publication 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 Contact for lead author Date 12/07/2004 Approved by Approval date Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on Annual Production Indicators
-
Number and extent of rills:
Rills should not be present. -
Presence of water flow patterns:
Typically not observable. -
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):
Bare ground 5-15%. -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present. -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None. -
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Little to no plant litter movement. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Stability class usually 5-6. Typically high root content, organic matter, and granular structure. Soil surface is resistant to erosion. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Use soil series description for depth and color of A-horizon. -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Healthy, deep rooted native grasses enhance infiltration and reduce runoff. -
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
No compaction layer should be evident. -
Functional/Structural Groups (list in order of descending dominance by above-ground annual-production or live foliar cover using symbols: >>, >, = to indicate much greater than, greater than, and equal to):
Dominant:
Mid and tall cool-season bunchgrasses = mid warm-season grasses >>Sub-dominant:
Tall warm-season rhizomatous grasses = forbs >Other:
Short warm-season grasses = short grass-like species = shrubs > mid cool-season rhizomatous grasses = short cool-season grassesAdditional:
Due to differing root structure and distribution, Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass do not fit into reference plant community F/S groups. -
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Very little to no evidence of decadence or mortality. -
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
50-60%, less than 0.5 inch thick. Litter cover is in contact with soil surface. -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
Production ranges from 1,800-3,400 lbs./acre (air-dry weight). Reference value production is 2,700 lbs./acre (air-dry weight). -
Potential invasive (including noxious) species (native and non-native). List species which BOTH characterize degraded states and have the potential to become a dominant or co-dominant species on the ecological site if their future establishment and growth is not actively controlled by management interventions. Species that become dominant for only one to several years (e.g., short-term response to drought or wildfire) are not invasive plants. Note that unlike other indicators, we are describing what is NOT expected in the reference state for the ecological site:
Refer to State and Local Noxious Weed List, also Kentucky bluegrass, smooth bromegrass -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All species are capable of reproducing.
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