Natural Resources
Conservation Service
Ecological site R102DY006SD
Limy Subirrigated
Last updated: 8/14/2024
Accessed: 04/21/2026
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Provisional. A provisional ecological site description has undergone quality control and quality assurance review. It contains a working state and transition model and enough information to identify the ecological site.
MLRA notes
Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 102D–Prairie Coteau
This area makes up about 7,867 square miles (20,375 square kilometers), consisting mostly of nearly level to undulating till plains with potholes and moraines. Elevation ranges from 1,150 to 2,130 feet (350 to 650 meters). The average annual precipitation is 22 to 29 inches (559 to 734 millimeters). The average annual temperature is 42 to 45 degrees F (6 to 7 degrees C). The dominant soil order in this MLRA is Mollisols. The soils in this area dominantly have a frigid temperature regime, and an aquic or udic moisture regime. They are generally very deep and loamy. Soils range from well drained to very poorly drained. Parent materials are dominantly fine-loamy till to clayey material, with smaller amounts of outwash, glaciofluvial deposits, eolian deposits, alluvium, and, to a lesser extent, loess and organic materials.
Classification relationships
*Fenneman (1916) Physiographic Regions*
Division - Interior Plains
East:
Province - Central Lowland
Section - Western Lake / Dissected Till Plains (12b/12e)
*USFS (2007) Ecoregions*
Domain - Humid Temperate
Division - Prairie
Province - Prairie Parkland (Temperate)
Section - North-Central Glaciated Plains (251B)
*EPA Ecoregions (Omernik 1997)*
I - Great Plains (9)
II - Temperate Prairies (9.2)
III - Aspen Parkland/Northern Glaciated Plains (9.2.1)Ecological site concept
The Limy Subirrigated ecological site typically occurs along the edges of drainageways or closed depressions. Soils are somewhat poorly drained which have a water table within 2 to 5 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August. Soils will effervesce with acid at or near the surface. Slopes typically range from 0 to 3 percent. Vegetation in the Reference State is dominated by warm season grasses such as Indiangrass, big bluestem, little bluestem. Forbs include goldenrods, cudweed sagewort, heath aster, scurfpea, and western yarrow. Non-native species such as Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, and/or quackgrass may invade this site due to a change in disturbance regime.
Associated sites
R102DY004SD Wet Meadow
These sites occur in a basin or closed depression. Soils are poorly drained and the site ponds water for 4 to 8 weeks in the spring of the year or after a heavy rain.
R102DY020SD Loamy Overflow
These sites occur in upland swales. Soils are moderately well drained which have water flow into and over/through the site.
R102DY003SD Subirrigated
These sites occur in drainageways. Soils are somewhat poorly drained which have a water table within 2 to 5 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August.
R102DY002SD Linear Meadow
These sites occur in drainageways. Soils are poorly and very poorly drained which have a water table within 0 to 2 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August.
Similar sites
R102DY003SD Subirrigated
The Subirrigated site occurs in drainageways. Soils are somewhat poorly drained which have a water table within 2 to 5 feet of the soil surface that persists longer than the wettest part of the growing season typically until the month of August. A Subirrigated site will have more big bluestem, less little bluestem and higher production than a Limy Subirrigated site.
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub Not specified
Herbaceous (1) Sorghastrum nutans
(2) Andropogon gerardiiPhysiographic features
This site typically occurs along rims of drainageways, closed depressions and potholes.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Drainageway
(2) Closed depression
(3) Pothole
Runoff class Very low to medium Flooding duration Brief (2 to 7 days) Flooding frequency None to occasional Ponding frequency None Elevation 1410 – 2000 ft Slope 0 – 2 % Water table depth 20 – 40 in Aspect W, NW, N, NE, E, SE, S, SW Climatic features
The average annual precipitation is 22 to 28 inches. Half or more of the precipitation falls during the growing season. Rainfall typically occurs during high-intensity, convective thunderstorms in summer. In the western part of the MLRA, rainfall is less abundant and not always adequate for full maturation of crops. Precipitation in winter is typically snow. The average annual temperature is 42 to 45 degrees F. The freeze-free period averages 142 days and ranges from 131 to 150 days.
Table 3 Representative climatic features
Frost-free period (characteristic range) 110-130 days Freeze-free period (characteristic range) 140-150 days Precipitation total (characteristic range) 20-30 in Frost-free period (actual range) 110-130 days Freeze-free period (actual range) 130-150 days Precipitation total (actual range) 20-30 in Frost-free period (average) 120 days Freeze-free period (average) 140 days Precipitation total (average) 30 in Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 1. Monthly precipitation range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 2. Monthly minimum temperature range
Characteristic rangeActual rangeBarLineFigure 3. Monthly maximum temperature range
BarLineFigure 4. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature
Figure 5. Annual precipitation pattern
Figure 6 Annual average temperature pattern
Climate stations used
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(1) WEBSTER [USC00399004], Webster, SD
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(2) WAUBAY NWR [USC00398980], Waubay, SD
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(3) WATERTOWN RGNL AP [USW00014946], Watertown, SD
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(4) WATERTOWN 1W [USC00398930], Watertown, SD
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(5) CASTLEWOOD [USC00391519], Castlewood, SD
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(6) CLEAR LAKE [USC00391777], Clear Lake, SD
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(7) ARLINGTON 1 W [USC00390281], Arlington, SD
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(8) BROOKINGS 2 NE [USC00391076], Brookings, SD
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(9) ASTORIA 4S [USC00390422], White, SD
">Influencing water features
No wetland features are associated with this site.
Soil features
Soils are formed in alluvium, loess, or till. Surface textures are typically loam or silty clay loam.
Table 4. Representative soil features
Parent material (1) Alluvium
(2) Loess
(3) Till
Surface texture (1) Loam
(2) Silty clay loam
Drainage class Somewhat poorly drained Permeability class Moderately slow Soil depth 0 – 80 in Surface fragment cover <=3" Not specified Surface fragment cover >3" Not specified Available water capacity
(0-40in)6.9 – 7.5 in Calcium carbonate equivalent
(0-40in)10 – 45 % Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-10in)6.6 – 8.4 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(0-60in)1 – 5 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(0-60in)0 – 1 % Ecological dynamics
The site which is located in the Prairie Pothole 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/or management actions. Under adverse impacts, a relatively rapid decline in vegetative vigor and composition can occur. Under favorable conditions the site has the potential to resemble the Reference State. Interpretations for this site are based primarily on the 1.1 Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little Blustem Plant Community Phase. This community phase and the Reference State have been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, areas protected from excessive disturbance, and areas under long-term rotational grazing regimes. Trends in plant community dynamics ranging from heavily grazed to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts also have been considered.
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 dymanics of this site. Heavy continuous grazing without adequate recovery periods following each grazing occurrence over several years causes this site to depart from the interpretive plant community. Species such as little bluestem, sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), and blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) will initially increase. Big bluestem, Indiangrass, and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) will decrease in frequency and production. Heavy continuous grazing causes Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis) to increase and eventually develop into a sod condition. Extended periods of non-use and no fire will result in a plant community having high litter levels, which favors an increase in Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermus). In time, shrubs such as western snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis) will also increase.
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 states/community phases. 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/or states may be revised or removed, and new ones may be added. The main purpose for including the descriptions here is to capture the current knowledge and experience at the time of this revision.State and transition model
More interactive model formats are also available. View Interactive Models
Click on state and transition labels to scroll to the respective textT1A - Heavy continuous grazing, non-use, no fire, invasion T1B - Tillage T2A - Non-use, no fire, heavy continuous grazing T2C - Tillage R3A - Long term prescribed grazing, prescribed burning, seeding T3 - Tillage R4A - Seeding R4B - Seeding, abandonment of cropping State 1 submodel, plant communities
1.1A - Heavy continuous grazing 1.2A - Prescribed grazing with recovery periods, prescribed burning State 2 submodel, plant communities
2.1A - Heavy continuous grazing 2.2A - Prescribed grazing State 3 submodel, plant communities
3.1A - Heavy continuous grazing 3.2A - Prescribed grazing 3.3A - Time without disturbances State 4 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference StateThe Reference State represents the natural range of variability that dominates the dynamics of this ES. This state is typically dominated by warm-season grass and grass-like species. Before European settlement, the primary disturbance mechanisms for this site in the reference condition included periodic fire, grazing by large herding ungulates, and fluctuations in the water table and ponding frequency and duration. Frequent surface fires (3 to 5 years) and grazing coupled with weather events dictated the dynamics that occurred within the natural range of variability. Today, the primary disturbance is from a lack of fire, concentrated livestock grazing, and weather fluctuations. Species that are desirable for livestock and wildlife can decline and a corresponding increase in less desirable species will occur.
Dominant plant species
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leadplant (Amorpha canescens), shrub
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rose (Rosa), shrub
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willow (Salix), shrub
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western snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis), shrub
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Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans), grass
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little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), grass
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porcupinegrass (Hesperostipa spartea), grass
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blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
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sedge (Carex), grass
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white sagebrush (Artemisia ludoviciana), other herbaceous
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goldenrod (Solidago), other herbaceous
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western marbleseed (Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale), other herbaceous
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Norwegian cinquefoil (Potentilla norvegica), other herbaceous
Community 1.1
Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little BluestemInterpretations are based primarily on the 1.1 Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase (this is also considered to be climax). This plant community evolved with grazing by large herbivores, frequent surface fires, and periodic flooding events and is suited for grazing by domestic livestock. This plant community can be found on areas that are grazed and where the grazed plants receive adequate periods of rest during the growing season in order to recover. The potential vegetation was about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 15 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. The community was dominated by warm-season grasses. The major grasses included Indiangrass, big bluestem, and little bluestem. Other grass or grass-like species included sideoats grama, porcupine grass (Hesperostipa spartea), green needlegrass (Nassella viridula), slender wheatgrass (Elymus trachycaulus), and sedge. This plant community was resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allowed for high drought tolerance. This was a sustainable plant community in regards to site/soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 7. 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 3075 3654 4105 Forb 185 420 755 Shrub/Vine 40 126 240 Total 3300 4200 5100 Figure 8. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0205 , Rolling Till Prairie, warm-season dominant.. Warm-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 2 5 15 25 30 15 7 1 0 0 Community 1.2
Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Forbs-Porcupine GrassThis 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, 20 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses included little bluestem, sideoats grama, and porcupine grass. Grasses of secondary importance included Indiangrass, big bluestem, blue grama, green needlegrass, and slender wheatgrass. Forbs commonly found in this plant community included Canada goldenrod (Solidago Canadensis), cudweed sagewort (Artemisia ludoviciana), heath aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides), scurfpea (Psoralidium), stiff goldenrod (Oligoneuron rigidum), and western yarrow (Achillea millefolium). This plant community had similar plant composition to the 2.2 Little Bluestem-Blue Grama-Forbs-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase. The main difference is that this plant community phase did not have the presence of nonnative invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass.
When compared to the 1.1 Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase, sideoats grama and little bluestem increased. Production of tall warm-season grasses was 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. Most of the components of the ecological processes would have been functioning at optimum levels. However, the vigor and reproductive capability of the tall warm-season grasses would have been reduced due to grazing pressure or a combination of stressors. A reduction of this dominant functional group allowed for an increase in shorter-statured (and shallower rooted) species.Figure 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0204 , Rolling Till Prairie, 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 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 Little Bluestem-Blue Grama-Forbs-Porcupine Grass Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1Prescribed Grazing, and/or prescribed burning returned to normal disturbance regime levels and frequencies or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest would have converted this plant community to the 1.1 Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase.
State 2
Native/Invaded StateThis state represents the more common range of variability that exists with higher levels of grazing management but in the absence of periodic fire due to fire suppression. This state is dominated by warm-season grasses. It can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning, and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest. Taller warm-season species can decline and a corresponding increase in short statured grass will occur.
Dominant plant species
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western snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis), shrub
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leadplant (Amorpha canescens), shrub
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rose (Rosa), shrub
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willow (Salix), shrub
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big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), grass
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little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), grass
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porcupinegrass (Hesperostipa spartea), grass
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blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
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sedge (Carex), grass
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Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), grass
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smooth brome (Bromus inermis), grass
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goldenrod (Solidago), other herbaceous
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white sagebrush (Artemisia ludoviciana), other herbaceous
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Cuman ragweed (Ambrosia psilostachya), other herbaceous
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Indianhemp (Apocynum cannabinum), other herbaceous
Community 2.1
Little Bluestem-Sideoats Grama-Forbs-Kentucky BluegrassThis plant community phase is similar to the 1.1 Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little Blustem Plant Community Phase, but it also contains minor amounts of nonnative invasive grass species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass (up to about 10 percent by air-dry weight). The potential vegetation is about 80 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 15 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. The community is dominated by warm-season grasses. The major grasses include big bluestem, Indiangrass, and little bluestem. Other grass or grass-like species include switchgrass, Canada wildrye (Elymus Canadensis), sideoats grama, prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), slender wheatgrass, and sedges. This plant community is resilient and well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species allows for high drought tolerance. This is a sustainable plant community in regards to site/soil stability, watershed function, and biologic integrity.
Figure 10. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0205 , Rolling Till Prairie, warm-season dominant.. Warm-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 2 5 15 25 30 15 7 1 0 0 Community 2.2
Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little BluestemThis plant community is a result of heavy continuous 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, 20 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses include little bluestem, sideoats grama, and Kentucky bluegrass. Grasses of secondary importance included Indiangrass, big bluestem, blue grama, porcupine grass, and slender wheatgrass. Forbs commonly found in this plant community included Canada goldenrod, cudweed sagewort, heath aster, scurfpea, stiff goldenrod, and western yarrow.
When compared to the 1.1 Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase, sideoats grama and little bluestem increased. Production of tall warm-season grasses was reduced. This plant community is moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component is intact, it tends to be resilient if the disturbance is not long-term. Most of the components of the ecological processes are functioning at optimum levels. However, the vigor and reproductive capability of the tall warm-season grasses are reduced due to grazing pressure or a combination of stressors. A reduction of this dominant functional group allows for an increase in shorter-statured (and shallower rooted) species. The introduction of nonnative invasive species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass results in alterations to the soil profile. Organic matter levels tend to decrease and begin to be concentrated more in the surface layers and the structure will begin to be modified. These changes favor the shallow-rooted species and hasten their eventual dominance if steps are not taken to reduce these species.Figure 11. 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 2705 3042 3235 Forb 160 450 865 Shrub/Vine 35 108 200 Total 2900 3600 4300 Figure 12. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0204 , Rolling Till Prairie, 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 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 Little Bluestem-Blue Grama-Forbs-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 Indiangrass-Big Bluestem-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing State 3
Invaded StateThis state is a result of encroachment mainly by invasive introduced cool-season grasses. The ecological processes are not functioning, especially the biotic processes and the hydrologic functions. The introduced cool-season grasses cause reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Preliminary studies would tend to indicate this threshold may exist when Kentucky bluegrass exceeds 30 percent of the plant community and native grasses represent less than 40 percent of the plant community composition. The opportunity for high intensity spring burns is severely reduced by early greenup and increased moisture and humidity at the soil surface, and grazing pressure cannot cause a reduction in sodgrass dominance. Production is limited to the sod forming species. Infiltration continues to decrease and runoff increases and energy capture into the system is restricted to early season low producing species. Nutrient cycling is limited by root depth of the dominant species.
Dominant plant species
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western snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis), shrub
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rose (Rosa), shrub
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willow (Salix), shrub
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leadplant (Amorpha canescens), shrub
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smooth brome (Bromus inermis), grass
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Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), grass
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reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea), grass
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little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), grass
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green needlegrass (Nassella viridula), grass
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sedge (Carex), grass
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white sagebrush (Artemisia ludoviciana), other herbaceous
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goldenrod (Solidago), other herbaceous
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New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), other herbaceous
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Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), other herbaceous
Community 3.1
Smooth Brome-Kentucky Bluegrass-Little BluestemThis plant community phase is a result of extended periods of nonuse and no fire or occasionally light levels of grazing over several years. It is characterized by 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 will likely be significantly less. In either case, the period that palatability is high is relatively short, as these cool-season species mature rapidly. Energy capture is also reduced.
The dominance of these introduced species has been shown to alter the biotic component of the soil, as well as organic matter levels and eventually the soil structure. These alterations perpetuate the dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass and tend to make establishment of native species extremely difficult.Figure 13. 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 2890 3480 3855 Forb 175 400 720 Shrub/Vine 35 120 225 Total 3100 4000 4800 Figure 14. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0201 , Rolling Till Prairie, 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-Quackgrass-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 and quackgrass (Elymus repens). 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 reduced significantly in this phase.
Figure 15. 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 1395 1980 2500 Forb 205 360 570 Shrub/Vine 0 60 130 Total 1600 2400 3200 Figure 16. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0201 , Rolling Till Prairie, 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. 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 nonnative invasive and/or 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.
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 and no surface fire for extended periods of time (typically for 10 years or more) causing litter levels to become high enough to reduce native grass vigor, diversity, and density will shift this community to the 3.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Quackgrass-Forbs Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 3.2A
Community 3.2 to 3.1Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest may convert this plant community to the 3.1 Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Little Bluestem Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing 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-Quackgrass-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, sugar beet and a variety of other crops.
Transition T1A
State 1 to 2Non-use and/or 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
State 2 to 3Non-use and/or 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 Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Little Bluestem 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-Quackgrass-Forbs Plant 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 R3A
State 3 to 2Long-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) coupled with prescribed burning may lead this 3.1 Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass-Little Bluestem Plant 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).
Transition T3
State 3 to 4Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 4.1 Annual Crops Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 4).
Restoration pathway R4A
State 4 to 2Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 4) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 2).
Restoration pathway R4B
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 3.3 Annual Pioneer- Perennial Pioneer Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 3).
Additional community tables
Table 9. Community 1.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Tall Warm-season Grasses 840–1890 Indiangrass SONU2 Sorghastrum nutans 420–1680 – big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 210–1470 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 0–210 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 630–1260 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 420–1260 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 84–630 – prairie dropseed SPHE Sporobolus heterolepis 0–210 – 3 Cool-season Grasses 210–1050 porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 84–840 – green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 42–420 – Canada wildrye ELCA4 Elymus canadensis 42–210 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 42–210 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–126 – northern reedgrass CASTI3 Calamagrostis stricta ssp. inexpansa 0–126 – 4 Other Native Grasses 42–210 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 42–168 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–168 – Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 0–42 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–42 – 5 Grass-likes 42–210 sedge CAREX Carex 42–210 – spikerush ELEOC Eleocharis 0–126 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–84 – Forb6 Forbs 210–630 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 42–168 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 42–126 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 42–126 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 42–84 – New England aster SYNO2 Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 0–84 – western marbleseed ONBEO Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale 42–84 – Norwegian cinquefoil PONO3 Potentilla norvegica 42–84 – blackeyed Susan RUHI2 Rudbeckia hirta 0–84 – Indianhemp APCA Apocynum cannabinum 42–84 – meadow zizia ZIAP Zizia aptera 42–84 – tall blazing star LIAS Liatris aspera 42–84 – American licorice GLLE3 Glycyrrhiza lepidota 42–84 – Maximilian sunflower HEMA2 Helianthus maximiliani 42–84 – stiff sunflower HEPA19 Helianthus pauciflorus 42–84 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 0–84 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 42–84 – smooth horsetail EQLA Equisetum laevigatum 0–42 – Virginia strawberry FRVI Fragaria virginiana 0–42 – closed bottle gentian GEAN Gentiana andrewsii 0–42 – downy gentian GEPU5 Gentiana puberulenta 0–42 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 0–42 – Canadian anemone ANCA8 Anemone canadensis 0–42 – common goldstar HYHI2 Hypoxis hirsuta 0–42 – palespike lobelia LOSP Lobelia spicata 0–42 – rough bugleweed LYAS Lycopus asper 0–42 – bluebell bellflower CARO2 Campanula rotundifolia 0–42 – blue-eyed grass SISYR Sisyrinchium 0–42 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–42 – prairie violet VIPE2 Viola pedatifida 0–42 – Shrub/Vine7 Shrubs 42–210 leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 42–168 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–84 – willow SALIX Salix 0–84 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–84 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–84 – 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 Tall Warm-season Grasses – big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–360 – Indiangrass SONU2 Sorghastrum nutans 0–360 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 0–108 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses – little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 360–1260 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 180–648 – 3 Cool-season Grasses – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 0–180 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–144 – Canada wildrye ELCA4 Elymus canadensis 0–108 – green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–108 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–72 – 4 Other Native Grasses – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 36–252 – Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 36–144 – Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 0–72 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–36 – 5 Grass-likes – sedge CAREX Carex 36–180 – spikerush ELEOC Eleocharis 0–144 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–72 – 6 Non-Native Grasses – Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 180–540 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–252 – quackgrass ELRE4 Elymus repens 0–180 – reed canarygrass PHAR3 Phalaris arundinacea 0–180 – Forb7 Forbs – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 36–216 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 36–180 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 36–144 – Indianhemp APCA Apocynum cannabinum 36–108 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 36–108 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–108 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 36–108 – American licorice GLLE3 Glycyrrhiza lepidota 36–108 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 36–108 – New England aster SYNO2 Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 0–108 – western marbleseed ONBEO Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale 0–108 – tall blazing star LIAS Liatris aspera 0–72 – rough bugleweed LYAS Lycopus asper 0–36 – Norwegian cinquefoil PONO3 Potentilla norvegica 0–36 – blackeyed Susan RUHI2 Rudbeckia hirta 0–36 – meadow zizia ZIAP Zizia aptera 0–36 – Maximilian sunflower HEMA2 Helianthus maximiliani 0–36 – stiff sunflower HEPA19 Helianthus pauciflorus 0–36 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–36 – smooth horsetail EQLA Equisetum laevigatum 0–36 – Shrub/Vine8 Shrubs – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 36–144 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–72 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–72 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–72 – willow SALIX Salix 0–36 – Table 13. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Tall Warm-season Grasses 0–200 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–120 – Indiangrass SONU2 Sorghastrum nutans 0–120 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 0–80 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 0–800 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 0–800 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–240 – 3 Cool-season Grasses 0–400 green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–320 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 0–200 – slender wheatgrass ELTR7 Elymus trachycaulus 0–120 – Canada wildrye ELCA4 Elymus canadensis 0–40 – western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–40 – 4 Other Native Grasses 0–200 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–160 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–120 – Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 0–40 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–40 – 5 Grass-likes 40–200 sedge CAREX Carex 40–200 – spikerush ELEOC Eleocharis 0–160 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–80 – 6 Non-Native Grasses 1000–2400 smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 600–2200 – Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 400–1400 – reed canarygrass PHAR3 Phalaris arundinacea 0–600 – quackgrass ELRE4 Elymus repens 0–120 – Forb7 Forbs 200–600 white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 40–200 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 40–200 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 40–160 – New England aster SYNO2 Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 0–160 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–120 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 40–120 – American licorice GLLE3 Glycyrrhiza lepidota 40–120 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 40–120 – Indianhemp APCA Apocynum cannabinum 0–80 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 0–80 – tall blazing star LIAS Liatris aspera 0–40 – rough bugleweed LYAS Lycopus asper 0–40 – western marbleseed ONBEO Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale 0–40 – Norwegian cinquefoil PONO3 Potentilla norvegica 0–40 – smooth horsetail EQLA Equisetum laevigatum 0–40 – Shrub/Vine8 Shrubs 40–200 snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 40–200 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–80 – willow SALIX Salix 0–80 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–40 – Table 14. Community 3.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Tall Warm-season Grasses 0–48 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–48 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 0–24 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 0–120 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 0–120 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–72 – 3 Cool-season Grasses 0–72 western wheatgrass PASM Pascopyrum smithii 0–72 – green needlegrass NAVI4 Nassella viridula 0–48 – 4 Other Native Grasses 0–168 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–144 – Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–72 – Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 0–24 – 5 Grass-likes 24–192 sedge CAREX Carex 24–168 – spikerush ELEOC Eleocharis 0–120 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–48 – 6 Non-Native Grasses 720–1680 Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 480–1440 – quackgrass ELRE4 Elymus repens 24–240 – reed canarygrass PHAR3 Phalaris arundinacea 0–120 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–120 – Forb7 Forbs 240–480 goldenrod SOLID Solidago 24–480 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 24–192 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 24–168 – Cuman ragweed AMPS Ambrosia psilostachya 24–168 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 24–120 – New England aster SYNO2 Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 0–96 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 24–72 – Indianhemp APCA Apocynum cannabinum 0–72 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–48 – American licorice GLLE3 Glycyrrhiza lepidota 0–48 – Norwegian cinquefoil PONO3 Potentilla norvegica 0–24 – smooth horsetail EQLA Equisetum laevigatum 0–24 – Shrub/Vine8 Shrubs 0–120 snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–120 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–48 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–24 – 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.
Indiangrass/Big Bluestem/Little Bluestem (1.1 & 2.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 4200
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 1.15
Little Bluestem/Grama/Forbs/Kentucky Bluegrass (2.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 3600
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.99
Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky Bluegrass/Little Bluestem (3.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 4000
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 1.10
Kentucky Bluegrass/Quackgrass/Forbs (3.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 2400
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.66
Annual/Pioneer, Non-Native Perennial (3.3)
Average Annual Production (lbs./acre, air-dry): 1200
Stocking Rate* (AUM/acre): 0.33
*Based on 912 lbs./acre (air-dry weight) per Animal Unit Month (AUM), and on 25 percent harvest efficiency (refer to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Range and Pasture Handbook).
Grazing by domestic livestock is one of the major income-producing industries in the area. Rangeland in this area may provide yearlong forage. During the dormant period, the forage for livestock will likely be lacking protein to meet livestock requirements and added protein will allow ruminants to better utilize the energy stored in grazed plant materials. A forage quality test (either directly or through fecal sampling) should be used to determine the level of supplementation neededHydrological functions
Water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic groups B and C. Infiltration is typically moderately slow and runoff potential for this site varies from negligible to low 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 higher infiltration and lower runoff. An example of an exception would be where shortgrasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Dominance by Kentucky bluegrass and/or smooth bromegrass will result in reduced infiltration and increased runoff. Areas where ground cover is less than 50 percent have the greatest potential to have reduced infiltration and higher runoff (refer to Section 4, NRCS National Engineering Handbook for runoff quantities and hydrologic curves).
Recreational uses
This site provides hunting, hiking, photography, bird watching, and other opportunities. The wide varieties of plants that bloom from spring until fall have an esthetic value that appeals to visitors.
Wood products
No appreciable wood products are typically present on this site.
Other products
Seed harvest of native plant species can provide additional income on this site.
Supporting information
Inventory data references
MLRA 102D was created in 2022 with Agricultural Handbook 296 updated. This area was MLRA 102A prior to this time. Information was copied from MLRA 102A ESDs to create the MLRA 102D ESDs. 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 NP-ECS-1 (0010746039) 2007 SD Deuel NP-ECS-1 (0130746039) 2007 SD Deuel
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. 92 pps.
Gilbert, M. C., Whited, P. M., Clairain Jr, E. J., & Smith, R. D. (2006). A Regional Guidebook for Applying the Hydrogeomorphic Approach to Assessing Wetland Functions of Prairie Potholes. Washington DC.
Samson, F. B., & Knopf, F. L. (1996). Prairie Conservation Preserving North America's Most Endagered Ecosystem. Washington D.C.: Island Press.
Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Official Soil Series Descriptions. Available online. Accessed March 2018.
United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS). 2003. National Range and Pasture Handbook, Revision 1. Grazing Lands Technology Institute. 214 pps.
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. 672pps.
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. 2022. Land resource regions and major land resource areas of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Basin. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Handbook 296.
USDA, NRCS. National Soil Information System, Information Technology Center, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building A, Fort Collins, CO 80526. (http://soils.usda.gov/technical/nasis/)
USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 27 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
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).Contributors
Megan Baxter
Stan Boltz
Lance Howe
Steve WinterApproval
Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 8/14/2024
Acknowledgments
Contact for Lead Authors: Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS), Redfield Soil Survey Office Redfield, SD; Lance Howe (Lance.Howe@usda.gov), Soil Survey Office Leader, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD; and Steve Winter (Steven.Winter@usda.gov), Soil Scientist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD Additional Information Acknowledgment: Jason Hermann (Jason.Hermann@usda.gov), Area Rangeland Management Specialist, USDA-NRCS, Redfield, SD
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 12/04/2007 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:
Barely observable. -
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Essentially, non-existent. -
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground less than 5% and less than 2 inches in diameter. -
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies should not be present. -
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
None. -
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Little to no plant litter movement. Plant litter remains in place and is not moved by erosional forces. -
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
Stability class usually 6. Typically high root content, organic matter, and granular structure. Soil surface is very resistant to erosion. -
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
Use soil series description for depth and color of A-horizon. -
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Healthy, deep rooted native 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 warm-season bunch grass >> tall warm-season rhizomatous grassSub-dominant:
> tall cool-season bunch grass > mid cool-season rhizomatous grass > short cool-season grass = forbOther:
Additional:
-
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):
85-90%, roughly 0.5 inch thick or less. Litter cover is in contact with soil surface. -
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
3800 – 5000 lbs./acre air-dry weight, average 4,400 lbs./acre air-dry weight -
Potential invasive (including noxious) species (native and non-native). List species which BOTH characterize degraded states and have the potential to become a dominant or co-dominant species on the ecological site if their future establishment and growth is not actively controlled by management interventions. Species that become dominant for only one to several years (e.g., short-term response to drought or wildfire) are not invasive plants. Note that unlike other indicators, we are describing what is NOT expected in the reference state for the ecological site:
Refer to State and Local Noxious Weed List. -
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
All species are capable of reproducing.
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