Very Shallow Hartville Uplift

Description

The Reference State (1.0) represents the best estimate of the natural range of variability that dominated the dynamics of the Very Shallow HU ecological site prior to European settlement. In pre-European times, the primary disturbances included grazing by large ungulates and small mammals, periodic fire, and drought.

In the Reference State, north-and east-facing slopes are dominated by a mix of cool-season needlegrass, warm-season bunchgrass, warm-season shortgrasses, sedge, and shrubs. On some steep, south- and west-facing slopes, alderleaf mountain mahogany is the dominant species. Rocky Mountain juniper and ponderosa pine may also grow in minor amounts in some areas adjacent to rock outcrops. Heavy grazing causes the plant community to transition to a community dominated by the upland sedges and warm-season shortgrasses. Erosion of the surface horizon is a potential outcome in areas that are heavily grazed. Favorable growing conditions occur during the spring and the warm months of June through August. This state is in areas that have a history of proper grazing management and in areas with moderate to light wildlife use.

Submodel