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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 Sandy ecological site typically occurs in an upland area. Soils vary from moderately well drained to somewhat excessively drained. The surface and subsoil textures are sandy loam, fine sandy loam, loamy very fine sand. Slopes can range from 0 to 40 percent. Vegetation in the Reference State is dominated by warm season grasses including big bluestem, switchgrass and cool-season needlegrasses. Forbs include cudweed sagewort, prairie coneflower, and western yarrow. Non-native grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass may invade with shifts in disturbance regime.
Associated sites
R102DY010SD Loamy
These sites occur on upland areas. Soils are well drained. The surface and subsoil textures are loam, silt loam, silty clay loam, clay loam, sandy clay loam, and very fine sandy loam.
R102DY012SD Thin Upland
These sites occur on uplands. Soils are well drained and will effervesce with acid at or near the surface.
R102DY020SD Loamy Overflow
These sites occur in upland swales. Soils are moderately well drained. The surface and subsoil textures are loam, silt loam, silty clay loam, clay loam, sandy clay loam, and very fine sandy loam.
Similar sites
R102DY020SD Loamy Overflow
The Loamy Overflow site may occur similar in landscape position, but the surface and subsoil textures are silt loam, silty clay loam, sandy clay loam, and very fine sandy loam. A Loamy Overflow site will have more big bluestem and higher production than a Sandy site.
R102DY010SD Loamy
The Loamy site may occur similar in landscape position, but the surface and subsoil textures are silt loam, silty clay loam, sandy clay loam, and very fine sandy loam. A Loamy site will have more green needlegrass and western wheatgrass and less needleandthread than a Sandy site.
Table 1. Dominant plant species
Tree Not specified
Shrub Not specified
Herbaceous (1) Andropogon gerardii
(2) Hesperostipa comataPhysiographic features
This site typically occurs on upland plains and swales.
Table 2. Representative physiographic features
Landforms (1) Upland > Plain
(2) Upland > Swale
Runoff class Negligible to medium Flooding frequency None Ponding frequency None Elevation 1000 – 2000 ft Slope 0 – 6 % Water table depth 40 – 80 in Aspect Aspect is not a significant factor 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 143 days and ranges from 131 to 151 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) WAUBAY NWR [USC00398980], Waubay, SD
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(2) WATERTOWN RGNL AP [USW00014946], Watertown, SD
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(3) WATERTOWN 1W [USC00398930], Watertown, SD
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(4) CASTLEWOOD [USC00391519], Castlewood, SD
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(5) CLEAR LAKE [USC00391777], Clear Lake, SD
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(6) ARLINGTON 1 W [USC00390281], Arlington, SD
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(7) TYLER [USC00218429], Tyler, MN
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(8) BROOKINGS 2 NE [USC00391076], Brookings, SD
">Influencing water features
No wetland features are associated with this site.
Soil features
Soils are formed in loamy and sandy eolian deposits. Surface textures are sandy loam and fine sandy loam. Soils are moderately well to well drained.
Table 4. Representative soil features
Parent material (1) Eolian deposits
Surface texture (1) Sandy loam
(2) Fine sandy loam
Drainage class Moderately well drained to well drained Permeability class Rapid Soil depth 0 – 80 in Surface fragment cover <=3" Not specified Surface fragment cover >3" Not specified Available water capacity
(0-40in)4.5 – 5.78 in Soil reaction (1:1 water)
(0-10in)5.6 – 7.8 Subsurface fragment volume <=3"
(0-60in)0 – 3 % Subsurface fragment volume >3"
(0-60in)Not specified 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 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase. This community phase and the Reference State have been determined by study of rangeland relic areas, areas protected from excessive disturbance, and areas under long-term rotational grazing regimes. Trends in plant community dynamics ranging from heavily grazed to lightly grazed areas, seasonal use pastures, and historical accounts also have been considered. Plant community phases, states, transitional pathways, and thresholds have been determined through similar studies and experience.
This 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 departure from the 1.1Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase. Sedge (Cyperaceae), Scribner’s panicum (Dichanthelium oligosanthes), and blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) will increase and eventually develop into a sod. Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) will increase initially and then begin to decrease. Needleandthread, porcupine grass (Hesperostipa spartea), sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula), big bluestem and little bluestem will decrease in frequency and production. Extended periods of nonuse and/or lack of fire will result in excessive litter and a plant community dominated by cool-season grasses such as 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 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 textEcosystem states
States 1, 5 and 2 (additional transitions)
T1A - Heavy continuous grazing T1B - Heavy continuous grazing, non-use, no fire, invasion T1C - Tillage T2A - Non-use, invasive incroachment T2B - Tillage T3A - Non-use, no fire, heavy continuous grazing T3C - Tillage R4 - Long-term prescribed grazing, prescribed burning T4 - Tillage R5A - Seeding R5B - Seeding, abandonment of cropping State 1 submodel, plant communities
1.1A - Heavy continuous grazing 1.1B - Prescribed burning 1.2A - Prescribed grazing with recovery periods, prescribed burning 1.3A - Prescribed grazing with recovery periods, prescribed burning State 2 submodel, plant communities
State 3 submodel, plant communities
3.1A - Heavy continuous grazing 3.2A - Prescribed grazing with recovery periods State 4 submodel, plant communities
4.1A - Heavy continuous grazing 4.2A - Prescribed grazing with recovery periods 4.3A - Time without disturbances State 5 submodel, plant communities
State 1
Reference StateThe Reference State represents the natural range of variability that dominates the dynamics of this ecological site (ES). This state was dominated by warm-season grasses with cool-season grasses being subdominant. 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. Cool-season and taller warm-season grasses would have declined and a corresponding increase in short, warm-season grasses would have occurred. Today, a similar state can be found on areas that are properly managed with grazing and/or prescribed burning, and sometimes on areas receiving occasional short periods of rest.
Dominant plant species
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leadplant (Amorpha canescens), shrub
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prairie sagewort (Artemisia frigida), shrub
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rose (Rosa), shrub
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snowberry (Symphoricarpos), shrub
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big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), grass
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sand bluestem (Andropogon hallii), grass
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prairie sandreed (Calamovilfa longifolia), grass
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little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), grass
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blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
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threadleaf sedge (Carex filifolia), grass
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field sagewort (Artemisia campestris), other herbaceous
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white sagebrush (Artemisia ludoviciana), other herbaceous
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stiff sunflower (Helianthus pauciflorus), other herbaceous
Community 1.1
Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-SwitchgrassInterpretations are based primarily on the 1.1 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase (this is also considered to be climax). The potential vegetation was about 85 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. The community was dominated by warm-season grasses, with cool-season grasses subdominant. The major grasses included big bluestem, needleandthread, switchgrass, sand bluestem (Andropogon hallii), prairie sandreed (Calamovifa longifolia), little bluestem, and porcupine grass. Other grass or grass-like species included sideoats grama, blue grama, threadleaf sedge (Carex filifolia), and Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans). 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 2190 2936 3630 Forb 145 248 385 Shrub/Vine 65 116 185 Total 2400 3300 4200 Figure 8. 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 Community 1.2
Little Bluestem-Needleandthread-Threadleaf SedgeThis plant community evolved under heavy continuous grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community was made up of approximately 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses included little bluestem, needleandthread, threadleaf sedge, prairie sandreed, and blue grama. Grasses of secondary importance included sideoats grama, porcupine grass, big bluestem, and sand dropseed (Sporobolus cryptandrus). Forbs commonly found in this plant community included cudweed sagewort (Artemisia ludoviciana), prairie coneflower (Ratibida columnifera), and western yarrow (Achillea millefolium). This plant community had similar plant composition to the 3.2 Little Bluestem-Needleandthread-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 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase, needleandthread, threadleaf sedge, and blue grama increased. Big bluestem and porcupine grass 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 9. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0203 , Rolling Till Prairie, 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 Community 1.3
Big Bluestem-Switchgrass-IndiangrassThis plant community was a result of fire occurring at relatively frequent intervals (3 to 5 years). This phase could have also resulted from a combination of grazing events immediately following early season fire (i.e., large ungulates attracted to highly nutritious vegetative growth following a fire). These events would have caused a reduction in cool-season grasses and an increase in warm-season grasses. The warm-season grasses were more tolerant of shorter return intervals of fire and would have increased in vigor and production leading to a temporary shift to this phase. Needlegrasses would have decreased most significantly amongst the cool-season grasses. 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 big bluestem, little bluestem, Indiangrass, switchgrass, prairie sandreed, and sideoats grama. Other grass or grass-like species included porcupine grass, needleandthread, blue grama, and threadleaf sedge. This plant community was not resistant to change and would have readily shifted back to the 1.1 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase with a return of more normal fire return intervals.
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 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-Needleandthread-Threadleaf Sedge Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 1.1B
Community 1.1 to 1.3Prescribed Burning occurring at relatively frequent intervals (3 to 5 years), and occasional grazing events immediately following early season fire caused a reduction in cool-season grasses and an increase in warm-season grasses. The warm-season grasses were more tolerant of shorter return intervals of fire, which would increase in vigor and production leading to a temporary shift to the 1.3 Big Bluestem-Switchgrass-Indiangrass 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 will convert this plant community to the 1.1 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 1.3A
Community 1.3 to 1.1Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest and/or prescribed burning with late season fire or at infrequent intervals (greater than 5 years) will convert this plant community to the 1.1 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase.
State 2
Shortgrass Sod StateThis state is the result of heavy continuous grazing, and in the absence of periodic fire due to fire suppression. This state is dominated by blue grama and buffalograss forming a dense sod layer that effectively blocks introduction of other plants into the system. Taller cool-season species will decline and a corresponding increase in short statured grass will occur. Once the threshold is crossed, a change in grazing management alone cannot cause a reduction in the sod grass dominance.
Dominant plant species
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threadleaf sedge (Carex filifolia), grass
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Scribner's rosette grass (Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum), grass
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blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
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white sagebrush (Artemisia ludoviciana), other herbaceous
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field sagewort (Artemisia campestris), other herbaceous
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western yarrow (Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis), other herbaceous
Community 2.1
Threadleaf Sedge-Scribner Panicum-Blue Grama SodThis plant community evolved under heavy continuous season grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community was made up of approximately 85 percent grasses and grass-like species, 10 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses typically included threadleaf sedge, Scribner’s panicum, and blue grama. Grasses of secondary importance included little bluestem and needleandthread. Forbs commonly found in this plant community included cudweed sagewort, green sagewort (Artemisia campestris), and western yarrow. This vegetation state was very resistant to change. The herbaceous species present were well adapted to grazing. This plant community was less productive than other phases. The thick sod prevented other species from getting established due to decreased infiltration and increased runoff.
Figure 11. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0203 , Rolling Till Prairie, 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 State 3
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 cool- and 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 cool-season species can decline and a corresponding increase in short statured grass will occur.
Dominant plant species
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prairie sagewort (Artemisia frigida), shrub
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snowberry (Symphoricarpos), shrub
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rose (Rosa), shrub
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leadplant (Amorpha canescens), shrub
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little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), grass
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big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), grass
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needle and thread (Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata), grass
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threadleaf sedge (Carex filifolia), grass
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Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), grass
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smooth brome (Bromus inermis), grass
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field sagewort (Artemisia campestris), other herbaceous
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white sagebrush (Artemisia ludoviciana), other herbaceous
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goldenrod (Solidago), other herbaceous
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Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), other herbaceous
Community 3.1
Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-SwitchgrassThis plant community phase is similar to the 1.1 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase, but it also contains minor amounts of non-native invasive grass species such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass (up to about 15 percent by air-dry weight). The potential vegetation is about 85 percent grasses or grass-like plants, 10 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. The community is dominated by warm-season grasses, with cool-season grasses subdominant. The major grasses include big bluestem, needleandthread, switchgrass, porcupine grass, little bluestem, and prairie sandreed. Other grass or grass-like species include sideoats grama, blue grama, threadleaf sedge, Indiangrass, prairie dropseed, and Kentucky bluegrass. 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 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 Community 3.2
Little Bluestem-Needleandthread-Kentucky BluegrassThis plant community is a result of heavy continuous grazing, continuous season-long grazing or from over utilization during extended drought periods. The potential plant community is made up of approximately 80 percent grasses and grass-like species, 15 percent forbs, and 5 percent shrubs. Dominant grasses include little bluestem, needleandthread, prairie sandreed, threadleaf sedge, blue grama and Kentucky bluegrass. Grasses of secondary importance include sideoats grama, porcupine grass, and sand dropseed. Forbs commonly found in this plant community include cudweed sagewort, prairie coneflower, and western yarrow.
When compared to the 1.1 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase, threadleaf sedge, needleandthread, and blue grama have increased. Big bluestem, switchgrass, and porcupine grass have decreased, and production of mid- and tall warm-season grasses has also been reduced. This plant community is moderately resistant to change. The herbaceous species present are well adapted to grazing; however, species composition can be altered through long-term overgrazing. If the herbaceous component is intact, it tends to be resilient if the disturbance is not long-term.Figure 13. 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 1550 2076 2550 Forb 105 240 420 Shrub/Vine 45 84 130 Total 1700 2400 3100 Figure 14. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). SD0203 , Rolling Till Prairie, 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 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 Little Bluestem-Needleandthread-Kentucky Bluegrass 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 will convert this plant community to the 3.1 Big Bluestem-Needleandthread-Switchgrass Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing State 4
Invaded StateThis state is the result of invasion and dominance of introduced species. This state is characterized by the dominance of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth bromegrass, and an increasing thatch layer that effectively blocks introduction of other plants into the system. Plant litter accumulation tends to favor the more shade tolerant introduced grass species. The nutrient cycle is also impaired and the result is typically a higher level of nitrogen which also favors the introduced species. Increasing plant litter decreases the amount of sunlight reaching plant crowns thereby shifting competitive advantage to shade tolerant introduced grass species. Studies indicate that soil biological activity is altered and this shift apparently exploits the soil microclimate and encourages growth of the introduced grass species. Once the threshold is crossed, a change in grazing management alone cannot cause a reduction in the invasive grass dominance. Preliminary studies would tend to indicate this threshold may exist when Kentucky bluegrass exceeds 30 percent of the plant community and native grasses represent less than 40 percent of the plant community composition.
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 Kentucky bluegrass. These events may reduce the dominance of Kentucky bluegrass, but due to the large amount of rhizomes in the soil, there is no opportunity for the native species to establish and dominate before Kentucky bluegrass rebounds and again dominates the system.Dominant plant species
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snowberry (Symphoricarpos), shrub
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prairie sagewort (Artemisia frigida), shrub
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rose (Rosa), shrub
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smooth brome (Bromus inermis), grass
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Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis), grass
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little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), grass
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needle and thread (Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata), grass
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sand dropseed (Sporobolus cryptandrus), grass
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ragweed (Ambrosia), other herbaceous
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field sagewort (Artemisia campestris), other herbaceous
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white sagebrush (Artemisia ludoviciana), other herbaceous
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Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), other herbaceous
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leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), other herbaceous
Community 4.1
Smooth Brome-Kentucky BluegrassThis plant community phase is a result of extended periods of nonuse and no fire. It is characterized by a dominance of smooth bromegrass and Kentucky bluegrass. The dominance is at times so complete that other species are difficult to find on the site. A thick duff layer 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.
Figure 15. 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 2010 2670 3290 Forb 135 225 345 Shrub/Vine 55 105 165 Total 2200 3000 3800 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 4.2
Kentucky Bluegrass-Threadleaf SedgeThis 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, threadleaf 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 reduced significantly in this phase.
Figure 17. 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 995 1653 2270 Forb 90 190 330 Shrub/Vine 15 57 100 Total 1100 1900 2700 Figure 18. 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 4.3
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 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 4.1A
Community 4.1 to 4.2Heavy 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 4.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Threadleaf Sedge Plant Community Phase.
Pathway 4.2A
Community 4.2 to 4.1Prescribed grazing (alternating season of use and providing adequate recovery periods) or periodic light to moderate grazing possibly including periodic rest will convert this plant community to the 4.1 Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass Plant Community Phase.
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Pathway 4.3A
Community 4.3 to 4.2This 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 4.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Threadleaf Sedge Plant Community Phase.
State 5
Crop Production StateThis state is characterized by the production of annual crops using a variety of tillage and cropping systems along with management practices. Cropping on this site is enabled during years with drier than normal precipitation or with artificial drainage (surface or subsurface).
Community 5.1
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 2Heavy continuous grazing (stocking levels well above carrying capacity for extended portions of the growing season, and often at the same time of year each year, typically beginning early in the season) will convert this plant community to the 2.1 Threadleaf Sedge-Scribner Panicum-Blue Grama Sod Plant Community Phase within the Shortgrass Sod State.
Transition T1B
State 1 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, 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 3).
Transition T1C
State 1 to 5Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 5.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 5).
Transition T2A
State 2 to 4Encroachment of non-native invasive/noxious species, abandonment of cropping, or seeding of introduced and/or native improved varieties of forage species may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 4) and more specifically to the 4.3 Annual/Pioneer, Non-native Perennial Plant Community Phase. In the case of a seeding, refer to the corresponding Forage Suitability Group (FSG) description for adapted species and expected production (production estimates in the FSG description may be unrealistically high due to the degraded condition of the site at this phase).
Transition T2B
State 2 to 5Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 5.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 5).
Transition T3A
State 3 to 4Non-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 4.1 Smooth Bromegrass-Kentucky Bluegrass Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 4). 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 4.2 Kentucky Bluegrass-Threadleaf Sedge Plant Community Phase within the Invaded State (State 4). Grazing repeatedly in the early growing season can expedite this shift by causing mechanical disturbance due to trampling.
Transition T3C
State 3 to 5Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 5.1 Annual Crops Plant Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 5).
Restoration pathway R4
State 4 to 3Long-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 plant community phase over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 3).
Conservation practices
Prescribed Grazing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Transition T4
State 4 to 5Tillage will cause a shift over a threshold leading to the 5.1 Annual Crops Community Phase within the Crop Production State (State 5).
Restoration pathway R5A
State 5 to 3Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 5) over a threshold to the Native/Invaded State (State 3).
Restoration pathway R5B
State 5 to 4Seeding may lead this Crop Production State (State 5) over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 4). Cropping followed by abandonment may lead this plant community phase over a threshold to the Invaded State (State 4) and more specifically to the 4.3 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 Tall Warm-season Grasses 660–1815 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 330–1155 – sand bluestem ANHA Andropogon hallii 0–660 – prairie sandreed CALO Calamovilfa longifolia 99–495 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 165–495 – Indiangrass SONU2 Sorghastrum nutans 33–330 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 330–660 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 165–660 – prairie dropseed SPHE Sporobolus heterolepis 0–165 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 33–165 – 3 Cool-season Bunchgrasses 165–495 4 Short Warm-season Grasses 66–165 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 33–165 – hairy grama BOHI2 Bouteloua hirsuta 0–99 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 33–66 – thin paspalum PASE5 Paspalum setaceum 0–33 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–33 – 5 Other Native Grasses 33–165 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–165 – Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 0–99 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 0–99 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 33–99 – 6 Grass-likes 33–165 Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–165 – threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 33–165 – Forb7 Forbs 165–330 Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 33–132 – field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 0–66 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 33–66 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 33–66 – stiff sunflower HEPA19 Helianthus pauciflorus 33–66 – blazing star LIATR Liatris 33–66 – Nuttall's sensitive-briar MINU6 Mimosa nuttallii 33–66 – western marbleseed ONBEO Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale 0–66 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 33–66 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 33–66 – blackeyed Susan RUHI2 Rudbeckia hirta 0–66 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 33–66 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 33–66 – American vetch VIAM Vicia americana 33–66 – purple locoweed OXLA3 Oxytropis lambertii 0–33 – beardtongue PENST Penstemon 0–33 – ticktrefoil DESMO Desmodium 0–33 – blacksamson echinacea ECAN2 Echinacea angustifolia 0–33 – prairie fleabane ERST3 Erigeron strigosus 0–33 – sand milkweed ASAR Asclepias arenaria 0–33 – milkvetch ASTRA Astragalus 0–33 – wavyleaf thistle CIUN Cirsium undulatum 0–33 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 0–33 – ragweed AMBRO Ambrosia 0–33 – Shrub/Vine8 Shrubs 66–165 leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 33–132 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–99 – prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 0–66 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 33–66 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–66 – Table 10. Community 1.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 11. Community 1.3 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 12. Community 2.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 13. Community 3.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 14. Community 3.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Tall Warm-season Grasses 48–360 big bluestem ANGE Andropogon gerardii 0–240 – prairie sandreed CALO Calamovilfa longifolia 0–192 – sand bluestem ANHA Andropogon hallii 0–72 – switchgrass PAVI2 Panicum virgatum 0–48 – 2 Mid Warm-season Grasses 120–600 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 120–600 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–48 – prairie dropseed SPHE Sporobolus heterolepis 0–24 – 3 Cool-season Bunchgrasses 120–480 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 120–480 – porcupinegrass HESP11 Hesperostipa spartea 0–120 – 4 Short Warm-season Grasses 72–240 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 48–240 – hairy grama BOHI2 Bouteloua hirsuta 0–120 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 24–96 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–96 – 5 Other Native Grasses 24–120 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–120 – Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 0–96 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 0–96 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 24–48 – 6 Grass-likes 48–240 threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 48–192 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–120 – 7 Non-Native Grasses 120–360 Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 120–360 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–144 – Forb8 Forbs 120–360 field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 24–120 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 24–96 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 24–96 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 24–96 – Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 24–96 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–72 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 24–72 – ragweed AMBRO Ambrosia 24–72 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 24–48 – upright prairie coneflower RACO3 Ratibida columnifera 0–24 – American vetch VIAM Vicia americana 0–24 – milkvetch ASTRA Astragalus 0–24 – wavyleaf thistle CIUN Cirsium undulatum 0–24 – purple prairie clover DAPU5 Dalea purpurea 0–24 – stiff sunflower HEPA19 Helianthus pauciflorus 0–24 – blazing star LIATR Liatris 0–24 – Nuttall's sensitive-briar MINU6 Mimosa nuttallii 0–24 – western marbleseed ONBEO Onosmodium bejariense var. occidentale 0–24 – purple locoweed OXLA3 Oxytropis lambertii 0–24 – Shrub/Vine9 Shrubs 48–120 prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 24–96 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–72 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 24–48 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–48 – leadplant AMCA6 Amorpha canescens 0–24 – Table 15. Community 4.1 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Mid Warm-season Grasses 0–150 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 0–150 – sideoats grama BOCU Bouteloua curtipendula 0–30 – 2 Cool-season Bunchgrasses 0–300 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–300 – 3 Short Warm-season Grasses 30–150 sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 30–150 – blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 0–120 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–90 – 4 Other Native Grasses 0–150 Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–120 – Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 0–60 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 0–60 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–60 – 5 Grass-likes 0–150 threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 0–150 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–90 – 6 Non-Native Grasses 900–2250 smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 300–1800 – Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 300–1500 – Forb7 Forbs 150–300 Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 30–180 – ragweed AMBRO Ambrosia 30–120 – field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 0–90 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 30–90 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 30–90 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 30–90 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–60 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 0–60 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 0–60 – wavyleaf thistle CIUN Cirsium undulatum 0–30 – Shrub/Vine8 Shrubs 60–150 snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 30–150 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–60 – prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 0–60 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 30–60 – Table 16. Community 4.2 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Grass/Grasslike1 Mid Warm-season Grasses 0–57 little bluestem SCSC Schizachyrium scoparium 0–57 – 2 Cool-season Bunchgrasses 0–95 needle and thread HECOC8 Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata 0–95 – 3 Short Warm-season Grasses 95–285 blue grama BOGR2 Bouteloua gracilis 38–285 – threeawn ARIST Aristida 0–95 – sand dropseed SPCR Sporobolus cryptandrus 19–95 – hairy grama BOHI2 Bouteloua hirsuta 0–57 – 4 Other Native Grasses 38–133 Scribner's rosette grass DIOLS Dichanthelium oligosanthes var. scribnerianum 19–133 – fall rosette grass DIWI5 Dichanthelium wilcoxianum 0–133 – Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 2GRAM Graminoid (grass or grass-like) 0–95 – prairie Junegrass KOMA Koeleria macrantha 0–19 – 5 Grass-likes 95–380 threadleaf sedge CAFI Carex filifolia 95–380 – Grass-like (not a true grass) 2GL Grass-like (not a true grass) 0–152 – 6 Non-Native Grasses 380–950 Kentucky bluegrass POPR Poa pratensis 285–950 – smooth brome BRIN2 Bromus inermis 0–152 – Forb7 Forbs 95–285 Forb, introduced 2FI Forb, introduced 19–152 – field sagewort ARCA12 Artemisia campestris 19–133 – white sagebrush ARLU Artemisia ludoviciana 19–95 – goldenrod SOLID Solidago 19–95 – ragweed AMBRO Ambrosia 19–95 – western yarrow ACMIO Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis 19–57 – white heath aster SYER Symphyotrichum ericoides 19–57 – Forb, native 2FN Forb, native 0–38 – scurfpea PSORA2 Psoralidium 0–19 – Shrub/Vine8 Shrubs 19–95 prairie sagewort ARFR4 Artemisia frigida 19–95 – snowberry SYMPH Symphoricarpos 0–38 – rose ROSA5 Rosa 0–19 – Shrub (>.5m) 2SHRUB Shrub (>.5m) 0–19 – Table 17. Community 4.3 plant community composition
Group Common name Symbol Scientific name Annual production () Foliar cover (%) Table 18. Community 5.1 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.
Bluestem/Needlegrass/Switchgrass (1.1 & 3.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./ac, air-dry):3300
Stocking Rate* (AUM/ac): 0.91
Little Bluestem/Needleandthread/Kentucky Bluegrass (3.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./ac, air-dry):2400
Stocking Rate* (AUM/ac): 0.66
Smooth Bromegrass/Kentucky Bluegrass (4.1)
Average Annual Production (lbs./ac, air-dry):3000
Stocking Rate* (AUM/ac): 0.82
Kentucky Bluegrass/Sedge (4.2)
Average Annual Production (lbs./ac, air-dry):1900
Stocking Rate* (AUM/ac): 0.52
Annual/Pioneer, Non-Native Perennial (4.3)
Average Annual Production (lbs./ac, air-dry):1000
Stocking Rate* (AUM/ac): 0.27
*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 with localized areas in hydrologic group A. Infiltration is typically moderate to moderately rapid and runoff potential for this site varies from very low to medium 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, 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. There is no NRCS clipping data and other inventory currently available for this site. Information presented here has been derived using field observations from range-trained personnel. Those involved in developing this site include: Stan Boltz, Range Management Specialist, NRCS; and Bruce Kunze, Soil Scientist, NRCS.
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 12/07/2004 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:
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 5-6. Typically high root content. 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:
Tall warm-season rhizomatous grass > mid warm-season bunch grassSub-dominant:
> mid/tall cool-season bunch grass > mid warm-season rhizomatous grass > forb > short cool-season grass/grass-likes = short warm-season grass = shrubsOther:
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):
70-80%, 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):
2800 – 3700 lbs./acre air-dry weight, average 3,300 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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