Physiographic features

This site typically occurs on flats and rises on lake plains, delta plains, and isolated areas of till plain and on flats on glacial lake beaches. It also occurs on high terraces and side slopes above streams and rivers; these landforms are no longer impacted by frequent flooding. Parent materials include fine-silty, coarse-silty, fine- loamy, and coarse-loamy glaciolacustrine sediments and deltaic deposits; loamy or silty stream alluvium; till; and loamy (>20 inches thick) over sandy beach deposits. Slopes range from 0 to 25 percent.

Table 2. Representative physiographic features

Climatic features

MLRA 56A is considered to have a continental climate – cold winters and relatively hot summers, low to moderate humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature may also abound. The climate is the result of this MLRA’s location near the geographic center of North America. There are few natural barriers on the northern Great Plains and air masses move freely across the plains and account for rapid changes in temperature.

Annual precipitation typically ranges from 18 to 23 inches per year. The average annual temperature is about 40°F. January is the coldest month with average temperatures ranging from about 1°F (Pembina, North Dakota (ND) to about 11°F (Wheaton, Minnesota (MN). July is the warmest month with temperatures averaging from about 68°F (Pembina, ND) to about 73°F (Wheaton, MN). The range of normal average monthly temperatures between the coldest and warmest months is about 65°F. This large annual range attests to the continental nature of this area's climate. Winds are estimated to average about 13 miles per hour annually, ranging from about 15 miles per hour during the spring to about 11 miles per hour during the summer. Daytime winds are generally stronger than nighttime and occasional strong storms may bring brief periods of high winds with gusts to more than 50 miles per hour.

Growth of cool season plants begins in early to mid-March, slowing or ceasing in late June. Warm season plants begin growth about mid-May and continue to early or mid-September. Greening up of cool season plants may occur in September and October when adequate soil moisture is present.

Table 3. Representative climatic features

Climate stations used

• (1) VICTOR 4 NNE [USC00398652], Rosholt, SD

• (2) PARK RIVER [USC00326857], Park River, ND

• (3) GRAFTON [USC00323594], Grafton, ND

• (4) WHEATON [USC00218907], Wheaton, MN

• (5) AGASSIZ REFUGE [USC00210050], Grygla, MN

• (6) PEMBINA [USW00014924], Pembina, ND

Influencing water features

This site does not receive significant additional water either as runoff from adjacent slopes (it is commonly in a run-off landscape position) or from stream overflow. Neither does it receive significant additional water from a seasonal high-water table. Depth to the water table typically exceeds 3 feet in the spring; however, in a few soils it may be as shallow as 2 feet early in the growing season. During the summer months, the depth is generally from 4 feet to more than 6 feet. Surface infiltration is moderately slow to moderately rapid. Permeability through the profile, typically, is moderately slow to moderate; however, in soils with contrasting substratum materials, it is very rapid where it is gravelly. Water loss is through evapotranspiration and percolation below the root zone. Where this site occurs on terraces, flooding frequency is none to occasional.

Soil features

Soils associated with Loamy ES are typically in the Mollisol order. The Mollisols are classified further as Aquic Argiudolls, Calcic Argiudolls, Oxyaquic Argiudolls, Calcic Hapludolls, Cumulic Hapludolls (>6% slope on uplands or on terraces), Oxyaquic Hapludolls, Pachic Hapludolls, or Typic Hapludolls. These soils were developed under prairie vegetation. The soils in this site commonly formed in glaciolacustrine sediments, deltaic deposits, beach deposits, till, or alluvium.

The common feature of soils in this site are the medium and moderately fine textures through most of the root zone; the soil forms a ribbon 1 to 2 inches long between depths of 10 and 20 inches. Surface textures typically are loam, silt loam, or silty clay loam but clay loam, very fine sandy loam, fine sandy loam, sandy loam also occur. Where fine sandy loam or sandy loam occurs, these textures are <10 inches thick. The subsoil typically is loam, clay loam, silt loam, or silty clay loam, but very fine sandy loam also occurs; the subsoil forms a ribbon 1 to 2 inches long to a depth >20 inches. Some soils have clayey substrata and others have sand and/or gravel substrata; a few soils in the northwest part of the MLRA have substrata material which is very high in shale content. Where these contrasting materials occur, they are at a depth >20 inches. Soils in this site are well drained or moderately well drained; where present, redoximorphic features are deeper than 30 inches.

Soil salinity is none to very slight (E.C. <4 dS/m). Typically, sodicity is none to low (SAR <2) to a depth >30 inches. Soil reaction is slightly acid to slightly alkaline (pH 6.1 to 7.8) in the surface layer and upper part of the subsoil. It commonly increases to moderately alkaline (pH 7.9 to 8.4) in the lower subsoil due to a layer of calcium carbonate accumulation. Where present, this layer is typically below a depth of 10 inches and the layers above do not effervesce. In the layer of accumulation, CaCO3 can be as much as 30 percent.

The soil surface is stable and intact. These soils are mainly susceptible to water erosion. The hazard of water erosion increases where vegetative cover is not adequate. Loss of the soil surface layer can result in a shift in species composition and/or production.

Major soil series correlated to the Loamy site are Aastad, Aazdahl, Barnes, Beotia, Croke, Darnen, Eckman, Fairdale, Fordville, Forman, Gardena, Great Bend, Heimdal, Lankin, La Prairie, LaDelle, Overly, Svea, Vang, and Walsh.

Access Web Soil Survey ( https://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx ) for specific local soils information.

Table 4. Representative soil features

Animal community

Animal community - Wildlife Interpretations

Landscape

The MLRA 56A landscape is characterized by a nearly level glacial lake plain bordered on the east and west by outwash plains, till plains, gravelly beaches, and dunes. MLRA 56A is considered to have a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, low humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature are common and characteristic of the MLRA. This area supports natural tall- grass prairie vegetation with bur oak, green ash, and willow growing in drainageways. This area is formed in silty and clayey lacustrine sediments from the former Glacial Lake Agassiz. Complex intermingled ecological sites create diverse grass/shrub land habitats interspersed with varying densities of linear, slope, depressional, and in-stream wetlands associated with headwater streams and tributaries to the Red River of the North. MLRA 56A is located within the boundaries of the Prairie Pothole Region and is an ecotone between the humid east and the sub-humid west regions. The primary land use is annual cropland (~80%). The Red River Valley is known for its exceptional fertility with major crops including corn, soybeans, small grains, and sugar beets.

By the mid-19th century, the majority of the Red River Valley had been converted from tall-grass prairie to annual crop production. To alleviate crop production loss from wetlands and overland flow, a system of shallow surface ditches, judicial ditches, and road ditches removes surface water in spring and during high rainfall events. The major soils are poorly drained with extensive areas of saline soils. Tile drainage systems have been or are being extensively installed throughout MLRA 56A for sub-surface field drainage to enhance annual crop production.

The east and west side of the Red River Valley formed in a complex pattern of sandy beach material, stratified inter-beach material, lacustrine silts, and lake washed glacial till. The soils vary from excessively drained on ridges to very poorly drained organic basins. Surface ditches serve to drain some of the area, although much of the area lacks adequate drainage for maximum crop production.

Calcareous fens and saline seeps can occur at the base of beach ridges and result in rare plant communities. Native vegetation was mixed- and tall-grass prairie with scattered woodland and brush.

Historic Communities/Conditions within MLRA 56A:

The northern tall- and mixed-grass prairie was a disturbance-driven ecosystem with fire, herbivory, and climate functioning as the primary ecological drivers (either singly or often in combination). Frequent and expansive flooding along the Red River and its tributaries provided abundant opportunities for Native Americans to harvest wild rice. American bison roamed MLRA 56A wintering along the Red River and migrating west into MLRA 55A and 55B for parts of the season. Many species of grassland birds, small mammals, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and large herds of roaming American bison, elk, and pronghorn were historically among the inhabitants adapted to this region. Roaming herbivores, as well as several small mammal and insect species, were the primary consumers linking the grassland resources to large predators (such as the wolf and American black bear) and smaller carnivores (such as the coyote, bobcat, red fox, and raptors). Extirpated species include free-ranging American bison and gray wolf (breeding). Extinct from the region is the Rocky Mountain locust.

Present Communities/Conditions within MLRA 56A:

MLRA 56A has the most conversion to cropland of any MLRA within Region F-Northern Great Plains. European influence has impacted remaining grassland and shrubland by domestic livestock grazing, elimination of fire, removal of surface and subsurface hydrology via artificial drainage, and other anthropogenic factors influencing plant community composition and abundance.

Extensive drainage has taken place. Streams have been straightened, removing sinuosity, and riparian zones have been converted to annual crop production. These anthropogenic impacts have reduced flood water detention and retention on the landscape, increasing storm water runoff, sediment, and nutrient loading to the Red River and its tributaries. The installation of instream structures has reduced aquatic species movement within the MLRA.

Annual cropping is the main factor contributing to habitat fragmentation, reducing habitat quality for area- sensitive species. These influences fragmented the landscape, reduced, or eliminated ecological drivers (fire), and introduced exotic species including smooth brome, Kentucky bluegrass, and leafy spurge which further impacted plant and animal communities. The loss of the bison and fire as primary ecological drivers greatly influenced the character of the remaining native plant communities and the associated wildlife, moving towards a less diverse and more homogeneous landscape.

Included in this MLRA are approximately 70,000 acres of the United States Forest Service, Sheyenne National Grassland (southern portion of MLRA) with an additional 65,000 acres of intermingled privately owned land of sandy soils providing a large tract of intact tall grass prairie within the MLRA. United Fish and Wildlife Service refuges and waterfowl production areas, along with and state wildlife management areas cover approximately 67,000 acres within the MLRA. Two of three largest cities in North Dakota are located within the MLRA.

USDA conservation programs have seeded thousands of cropland acres in riparian zones to native herbaceous vegetation. Natural succession is replacing the planted native herbaceous vegetation to native woody vegetation re-establishing native wooded riparian areas on previously cropland. Most of the plantings have been along the Red River and its tributaries in the northern portions of the MLRA within the United States. These areas are privately owned and protected from annual agricultural production with perpetual conservation easements.

Some characteristic wildlife species in this area are:

Birds: Mallard, blue-winged teal, red-tailed hawk, American kestrel, ring-necked pheasant, western meadowlark, killdeer, eastern and western kingbird, American crow, common yellowthroat, downy and hairy woodpecker, clay-colored sparrow, vesper sparrow, Savannah sparrow, and brown-headed cowbird.

Mammals: Northern short-tailed shrew, white-tailed jackrabbit, snowshoe hare, Franklin’s ground squirrel, thirteen-lined ground squirrel, northern pocket gopher, plains pocket gopher, western harvest mouse, deer mouse, meadow vole, meadow jumping mouse, western jumping mouse, coyote, red fox, raccoon, American badger, striped skunk, white-tailed deer, North American beaver, and moose.

Reptiles/Amphibians: American toad, Great Plains toad, northern leopard frog, chorus frog, tree frog, tiger salamander, plains garter snake, and common garter snake.

Presence of wildlife species is often determined by ecological site characteristics including grass and forb species, hydrology, aspect, and other associated ecological sites. The home ranges of most species are usually larger than one ecological site or are dependent upon more than one ecological site for annual life requisites. Ecological sites offer different habitat elements as the annual life requisites change. Habitat improvement and creation must be conducted within the mobility limits of a known population for the species.

Insects play an important role providing ecological services for plant community development. Insects that are scavengers or aid in decomposition provide the food chain baseline sustaining the carnivorous insects feeding upon them. Many insects provide the ecological services necessary for pollination, keeping plant communities healthy and productive. Insects provide a protein food source for numerous species including grassland-nesting birds and their young. Extensive use of insecticides for specialty crops (such as potatoes, sugar beets, and other crops) has greatly reduced insects within this MLRA.

Species of Concern within MLRA 56A:

The following is a list of species considered “species of conservation priority” in the North Dakota State Wildlife Action Plan (2015); “species of greatest conservation need” in the Minnesota State Wildlife Action Plan, Conservation Focus Areas, Target Species (2015) and the South Dakota State Wildlife Action Plan (2014); and “species listed as threatened, endangered, or petitioned” under the Endangered Species Act within MLRA 56A at the time this section was developed:

Invertebrates: Arogos skipper, Assiniboia skipper, Dakota skipper, dusted skipper, Leonard’s skipper, monarch butterfly, Poweshiek skippering, red-tailed leafhopper, regal fritillary, and Uhler’s Arctic.

Birds: American kestrel, American bittern, bobolink, American white pelican, bald eagle, black-billed cuckoo, chestnut-collared longspur, Dickcissel, grasshopper sparrow, greater prairie-chicken, Henslow’s sparrow, LeConte’s sparrow, loggerhead shrike, marbled godwit, Nelson’s sparrow, northern harrier, northern pintail, red-headed woodpecker, sharp-tailed grouse, short-eared owl, Swainson’s hawk, upland sandpiper, western meadowlark, willet, Wilson’s phalarope, and yellow rail.

Mammals: Arctic shrew, big brown bat, eastern spotted skunk, gray fox, little brown bat, northern grasshopper mouse, plains pocket mouse, prairie vole, pygmy shrew, Richardson’s ground squirrel, and river otter.

Amphibians/Reptiles: Canadian toad, common snapping turtle, northern prairie skink, and plains hognose snake.

Fish: Blacknose shiner, blue sucker, burbot, chestnut lamprey, finescale dace, hornyhead chub, largescale stoneroller, logperch, northern pearl dace, northern redbelly dace, pearl dace, shortnose gar, sickle-fin chub, sliver chub, silver lamprey, trout-perch, and yellow bullhead.

Mussels: Black sandshell, creek heelsplitter, creeper, mapleleaf, pink heelsplitter, pink papershell, threeridge, and Wabash pigtoe.

Grassland Management for Wildlife in MLRA 56A:

Management activities within the community phase pathways have both short and long term positive and negative impacts on wildlife. Community phase, transitional, and restoration pathways are keys to long- term management within each State and between States. Significant inputs must occur to cross the threshold between States (e.g., State 3.0 to 2.0) requiring substantial economic inputs and management (grazing intensity, reseeding, prescribed fire, woody vegetation removal, etc.). Timing, intensity, and frequency of these inputs can have dramatic positive or negative effects on vegetative structure impacting local wildlife species’ habitats. Ranchers and other land managers must always consider the long-term beneficial effects of management on the habitat in comparison to potential short-term negative effects to individual species.

Ecological sites occur as intermingled complexes on the landscape with gradual or sometimes abrupt transitions. Rarely do ecological sites exist in large enough acreage to manage independently. Ecological sites supporting a dominance of herbaceous vegetation (Wet Meadow, Subirrigated Sands) can be located adjacent to ecological sites that support trees (Choppy Sands and Loamy Overflow).

Management of these complex ecological sites can provide a heterogeneous or a homogenous landscape. Grassland bird use reduces as the plant community transitions to a homogenous state or increases in woody vegetation. Managers need to recognize ecological sites and the complexes they occur in to properly manage the landscape. A management regime for one ecological site may negatively impact an adjacent site (e.g., alteration of a grazing regime within a Choppy Sands ecological site to encourage understory growth may encourage exotic cool-season grasses to increase or dominate an adjacent ecological site).

Life requisites and habitat deficiencies are determined for targeted species. Deficiencies need to be addressed along community phase, transitional, and restoration pathways as presented in specific state- and-transition models. Ecological sites should be managed and restored within the site’s capabilities to provide sustainable habitat. Managers also must consider habitat provided by adjacent/intermingled ecological sites for species with home ranges or life requisites that cannot be provided by one ecological site.

With populations of many grassland-nesting birds in decline, it is important to maintain these ecological sites in a 1.0 Reference State or the 2.0 Native/Invaded State. Plant communities optimal for a guild of grassland species serve as a population source where the birth rate exceeds mortality. Species may use marginal plant communities; however, these sites may function as a population sink where mortality exceeds the birth rate.

Understanding preferred vegetative stature and sensitivity to woody encroachment is necessary to manage for the specific grassland species. Various grass heights may be used for breeding, nesting, or foraging habitat. While most species use varying heights, many have a preferred vegetative stature height. The following chart provides preferred vegetative stature heights and sensitivity to woody vegetation encroachment.

To see a full version 5 rangeland health worksheet with functional/structural group tables. Please use the following hyperlink:(
https://efotg.sc.egov.usda.gov/references/public/ND/56A_Loamy_Narrative_FINAL_Ref_FSG.pdf )

Loamy Wildlife Habitat Interpretation:

Loamy ecological sites have no restrictions in the soil profile. This complex of ecological sites provides habitat for many edge-sensitive, grassland bird species. Loamy habitat features support nesting and foraging grassland birds but may be too dense and tall for sharp-tailed grouse leks. Associated ecological sites include Clayey, Limy Subirrigated, Loamy Overflow, Subirrigated, Thin Loamy, Sandy, and Wet Meadow.

Loamy ecological sites may be found in five plant community states (1.0 Reference State, 2.0 Native/Invaded State, 3.0 Invaded State, 4.0 Go-Back State, and 5.0 Invaded Wooded State). Multiple plant community phases exist within States 1.0 and 2.0. These states occur primarily in response to grazing, drought, and non-use. Secondary influences include fire and anthropogenic disturbances.

Because there is no known restoration pathway from State 2.0 to State 1.0, it is important to intensively manage using tools in State 2.0 Community Phase pathways to prevent further plant community degradation along the Transitional Pathway T2A to Invaded State 2.0 or Transitional Pathway T2B to State 5.0 Invaded Wooded State. Conversion to a woody state along transitional pathway T2B, T3A, or T4A generally benefit wildlife species that can tolerate or require woody habitat within plant community State 5.0.

As plant communities degrade within State 2.0, warm-season grasses (particularly short-statured and cool-season exotic grasses) increase while native forbs are reduced. This transition results in reduced structure, increased plant community homogeneity, and reduced insect populations resulting in a reduction of breeding, nesting, foraging, or winter habitat for grassland birds. When adjacent/intermingled ecological sites undergo the same transition, the result can be an expansive, homogenous landscape. Success along restoration pathway R3A, R4A, and R5A to State 2.0 is very difficult and is dependent upon presence of remnant native grass populations, successful native range planting, and/or successful woody vegetation removal.

Invaded Wooded State 5.0 provides habitat features and components which support woodland edge and interior birds and other wildlife species dependent upon trees and shrubs to meet their life requisites. Grassland-nesting birds that commonly avoid woody vegetation will not have their habitat needs met and may even avoid adjacent ecological sites dominated by grassland vegetation. A reduction in nesting success by grassland nesting birds on adjacent herbaceous sites is likely due to an increase in avian predation. These wooded sites provide quality loafing, escape, and winter cover for small and large herbivores and quality year-round habitat for American martin, snowshoe hare, elk, moose, and white-tailed deer. These sites provide habitat for many migratory passerines, year- round habitat for ruffed grouse, and quality winter cover for eastern screech owl, great horned owl, wild turkey, and non-migrating passerine birds (such as black-capped chickadee and white-breasted nuthatch).

Management along community phase, transition or restoration pathways should focus upon attainable changes. Short- and long-term monetary costs must be evaluated against short- and long- term ecological services in creating and maintaining habitat of enough quality to support a sustainable population.

1.0 Reference State

Community Phase 1.1 Big Bluestem-Indiangrass-Sideoats Grama/Forbs: This plant community offers quality wildlife habitat; every effort should be made to maintain this ecological site within this community phase. This phase retains high functionality through continued maintenance including prescribed grazing with adequate recovery period, as well as prescribed burning. Predominance of grass species in this community favors grazers and mixed-feeders (animals selecting grasses as well as forbs and shrubs). The structural diversity provides habitat for a wide array of migratory and resident birds.

Invertebrates: Insects play a role in maintaining the forb community and provide a forage base for grassland birds, reptiles and rodents. Ecological services, historically provided by American bison, are simulated by domestic livestock. These services include putting plant material and dung in contact with mineral soil to be used by low trophic level consumers (such as invertebrate decomposers, scavengers, shredders, predators, herbivores, dung beetles and fungal feeders).

Dakota skippers do not prefer this site due to limited host plants (such as woody lily, harebell, and smooth camas). Regal fritillary habitat is limited due to Nuttall's violet and prairie violets being uncommon. Monarch butterfly may use flowering forbs on this site; however, few milkweed species are found on this site to support breeding and larvae development. Bumblebees and other native bees utilize forbs for nectar and pollen and bare ground for nesting amongst bunchgrasses (such as sideoats grama, green needlegrass, porcupinegrass, and little bluestem). Prescribed grazing with adequate recovery periods, as well as prescribed burning, to maintain the 1.1 phase will have long-term positive effects on ground dwelling insects.

Birds: This plant community provides quality nesting, foraging, and escape habitats favored by mid- to tall- grass nesting birds. Grassland birds preferring mid- to tall-grass structure will use this site. In years with reduced precipitation or drought, nesting recruitment may be compromised. This plant community provides suitable areas for sharp-tailed grouse nesting, brood-rearing, and winter habitat. Limited structure and diverse prey populations provide good hunting opportunity for grassland raptors. Many passerine species utilize MLRA 56A as a major migratory travel corridor. The low scattered shrubs present in the plant community phase should not impact woody vegetation sensitive bird species.

Mammals: The diversity of grasses and forbs provide high nutrition levels for small and large herbivores. Mid- to tall-stature vegetation provides suitable food, thermal, protective, and escape cover for small and large herbivores.

Amphibians/Reptiles: This ecological site and associated plant communities provides habitat for smooth green snakes. This ecological site can provide habitat for the northern leopard frog and Great Plains toad if freshwater habitat (such as wetlands, streams, or lakes) is adjacent or near the site.

Fish and Mussels: This ecological site can be near or adjacent to wetlands (Wet Meadow ecological site), streams, rivers, or water bodies. Associated ecological sites, such as Loamy Overflow, can receive run-on hydrology from Loamy sites (out-letting into receiving waters). Management on these interconnected sites can have direct effects on aquatic species.

Community Phase 1.2 Blue Grama-Big Bluestem-Indiangrass/Forbs: Multiyear drought with or without heavy long-term grazing favors an increase blue grama (a shorter, warm-season grass) and corresponding decreases in big bluestem, Indiangrass, and sideoats grama.

Invertebrates: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1 since the forb component remains similar. However, an increase in warm-season, sod-forming grasses with the corresponding reduction in sideoats grama may negatively impact ground nesting pollinator species.

Birds: Long-term drought with or without heavy long-term grazing favors grassland-nesting birds species preferring short- to mid-statured vegetation. Winter cover for resident bird species, such as sharp-tailed grouse, is somewhat compromised due to the increase in blue grama and heavy-long- term grazing.

Mammals: Even though tall warm season grasses are still present in this plant community phase, heavy long-term grazing and long-term drought creates shorter statured vegetation, reducing cover for large mammals such as white-tailed deer.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Community Phase 1.3 Shrubs/Porcupinegrass-Wheatgrasses/Sedges: With above average precipitation and a reduction in fire frequency or reduced grazing, native shrubs become prominent and begin to dominate. Western snowberry, American plum, chokecherry, Saskatoon serviceberry, leadplant, and wild rose may spread across the entire site.

Invertebrates: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1. However, increased shrub component will provide early- and mid- season nectar and pollen sources for pollinating insects. Depending on the number of forbs still present, late season pollen and nectar may not be available. These woody species are not considered nectar sources for regal fritillary or monarch butterfly.

Birds: Western snowberry-dominated sites provide brood and winter cover for sharp-tailed grouse and ring-necked pheasant. Western snowberry, chokecherry, and American plum provide winter cover and food (berries) for grassland-nesting bird species that use woody vegetation (or can tolerate a small amount) within areas dominated by grassland habitat. Woody vegetation may not reach enough density to provide habitat for woodland edge species but may reach density for grassland nesting birds sensitive to woody vegetation to avoid this site. Brown-headed cowbird use will increase with an increase in the woody cover component of this ecological site.

Mammals: Increase in woody habitat provides winter and escape cover, birthing sites, browse, etc. for white-tailed deer. The increase in woody cover may not benefit bat species found in MLRA 56A since necessary maternity or roost trees are limited.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1; however, the increase in woody vegetation will decrease habitat quality for the smooth green snake.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

2.0 Native/Invaded State

Community Phase 2.1 Big Bluestem-Indiangrass-Sideoats Grams/Forbs: This plant community occurs with the introduction of exotic cool-season grasses. The transition can be facilitated by chronic or heavy late-season grazing, as well as long-term non-use and no fire events (via Transitional Pathway T1A). The threshold between the states is crossed when exotic grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and smooth brome, become established on the site. This plant community phase has a very similar appearance and function to the Reference State of Community 1.1, except it has a minor amount of cool-season exotic grasses and forbs. This phase functions at a high level for native wildlife; therefore, managers should consider the 2.0 community phase pathways to avoid transitioning to the Invaded State 3.0. There is no known Community Phase Pathway back to State
1.0 from State 2.0.

Invertebrates: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Birds: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Mammals: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Community Phase 2.2 Blue Grama-Big Bluestem-Indiangrass/Forbs: Heavy grazing, with or without drought along Community Phase Pathway 2.1A leads to shorter-statured warm-season grasses dominating this plant community. As grama grasses begin to dominate, stature is reduced. This community can appear in a mosaic of overgrazed/undergrazed dispersed throughout the pasture with undergrazed areas having a litter build-up and other areas lacking cover. Prescribed grazing with adequate recovery periods along Community Phase Pathway 2.2A is an efficient, effective method to regain the cool-season grass and forb diversity components in Community Phase 2.1. This plant community is considered an “at-risk” plant community and can transition to State 3.0 if management regimes are not incorporated to control or reduce cool-season exotic grasses.

Invertebrates: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.2; however, heavy season-long grazing may reduce forb richness and production. Undergrazed areas will have an increase in litter, reducing ground-nesting site availability. The reduction of native forbs and increase in sod-forming grasses limit foraging and nesting sites for all pollinators.

Birds: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.2; however, heavy season-long grazing will reduce grassland-nesting birds nest sites, forage (invertebrates), and cover. A mosaic of undergrazed/overgrazed areas favor both grassland-nesting bird species that favor short- to mid- statured vegetation. A reduced forb component may limit foraging opportunities. Species that prefer mid-grass stature generally will be successful with normal to above normal precipitation and a change in management along the 2.2A Community Phase Pathway. In years with reduced precipitation or heavy grazing during the nesting season, use by mid-grass nesting species may be compromised. This plant community provides areas suitable for sharp-tailed grouse lek site development in overgrazed areas with nesting, brood, and winter cover in undergrazed areas. Limited stature and diverse prey populations provide good hunting opportunities for grassland raptors.

Mammals: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.2. Suitable food, thermal, protective, and escape cover (reduction in litter) for most mammals become limited in overgrazed areas while undergrazed areas provide thermal, protective, and escape cover.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Community Phase 2.3 Shrubs/Porcupinegrass-Wheatgrasses/Sedges: Long-term non-use or very light grazing, with no fire, enables native shrubs to become dominant. Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, and/or quackgrass may be found alone or as a mosaic across the site. Shrubs are dominated by shorter statured shrubs, but chokecherry and American plum may be found in this plant community phase. Continued extended periods of non-use or very light season-long grazing, with no fire, enables native trees to begin dominating the site (via Transitional Phase T2B). While implementation of prescribed grazing or prescribed burning results in a reduction of the shrub component moving this plant community back to Community Phase 2.2.

Invertebrates: The invasion of woody vegetation and reduction or entire loss of big bluestem reduces or eliminates habitats for all invertebrate species of concern within MLRA 56A. Season-long pollen and nectar availability becomes limited on this site. The woody shrub component will provide early- to mid-season bloom period. Hairy false goldenaster provide mid- to late-season bloom times. Forbs, such a goldenrod and white heath aster, provide late season pollen and nectar opportunities. Overall, pollinator plant diversity is high providing season-long nectar and pollen production.

Birds: Grassland nesting birds sensitive to woody vegetation encroachment may discontinue use of this community phase dependent upon the density of western snowberry, Saskatoon serviceberry, chokecherry, and silver buffaloberry. Tall shrub density will also have a negative impact on grassland nesting birds not tolerant to woody species. Woody vegetation typically does not reach enough density or height to provide habitat for bird species favoring woodland edge. Brown-headed cowbird use will increase with an increase in the woody cover component of this ecological site. Increase in woody component will provide winter cover for pheasant and sharp-tailed grouse.

Mammals: Increase in woody habitat provides winter and escape cover, birthing sites, browse, etc. for large and small mammals.

Amphibians and Reptiles: This site no longer provides life requisites for the northern prairie skink and plains hog-nosed snake due to the dominance of western snowberry and other shrubs.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

3.0 Invaded State

Community Phase 3.1 Exotic Cool-Season Grasses/Shrubs: Community Phase Pathway T2A is characterized by non-use and elimination of fire when exotic cool-season grasses are present as in Community Phase 2.0. This plant community phase is characterized by a dominance (>30%) of exotic cool-season grasses, such as smooth brome; native grasses represent less than 40% of the plant community. Restoration Pathway R3A, through prescribed burning and high levels of grazing management, requires remnant amounts of native warm- and cool-season grasses and forbs to be successful. The remnant native community needs frequent prescribed burns and high levels of grazing management targeting the exotic cool-season grasses to improve competitiveness and increase vigor and density. Without intensive management, the remnant native plants will not increase adequately to transition back to State 2.0. Managers need to evaluate impacts to wildlife while implementing these management practices. Intensified management along the R3A Pathway will have significant short-term negative impacts on wildlife habitat; however, this is necessary to restore long-term native habitat functions.

Invertebrates: Exotic grasses limit use by beneficial insects provided in States 1.0 and 2.0. However, western snowberry and prairie rose may provide early season pollen and nectar sources. Increased litter and lack of grazing leads to limited contact between plant material and mineral soil, resulting in a cooler micro-climate which is unfavorable to most insects. Lack of bare soil limits ground-nesting sites for native bees and other ground-nesting insects. Western snowberry and prairie rose provides early season pollen and nectar. Mid-season pollen and nectar is limited due to lack of forb diversity, while goldenrods provide last season pollen and nectar sources.

Birds: The homogeneous community phase, dominated by exotic plant species, provides limited habitat and life requisites for most obligate grassland-nesting birds. Lack of plant diversity and stature, along with increased litter and the tendency of Kentucky bluegrass and smooth brome to lay down or flop, limits use by many grassland-nesting birds. Depending on the density of western snowberry, sharp-tailed grouse may use this plant community for lek sites and nesting cover; western snowberry may provide winter cover, depending on density.

Mammals: Litter accumulation and exotic grass cover favors thermal, protective, and escape cover for small rodents. Western snowberry may provide escape, parturition, and thermal cover dependent on density.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1.

4.0 Go-Back State

Community Phase 4.1 Annual/Pioneer Perennial/Exotics: Following cropland abandonment, these plant communities are dominated by early pioneer annual and perennial plant species. Plant species composition and production are highly variable. Weedy plants can provide pollinator habitat along with spring and summer cover for many mammals and birds, and their young. Dense weed cover can keep soils moist, increasing insect presence. Tall stature provided by some weeds, such as marsh elder and ragweed, offer thermal cover and seeds throughout winter for deer, small mammals, and over-wintering birds. The response by wildlife species will be dependent upon plant community composition, vegetative stature, patch size, and management activities (such as prescribed grazing, burning, inter-seeding, haying, or noxious weed control).

Successful restoration of native species along Restoration Pathway R4A can result in a native grass and forb community in State 2.0. Over time, with no management, the exotic cool-season perennial grasses (Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, and/or quackgrass) generally become established and dominate the community. Failed range planting, via Restoration Pathway R4B, can result in an invaded plant community Invaded State 3.0.

5.0 Invaded Wooded State

Loamy ecological sites did not historically support a woody plant community. The Invaded Wooded State usually exists on the east or north aspect slopes or as a linear woody feature on a concave landscape commonly referred to as “woody draws”. The invaded wooded state occurs when the Loamy ecological site is located near a seed source for woody vegetation (such as a wooded Loamy Overflow ecological site or near a wooded riparian corridor). The removal of all disturbance through Transition Pathways T2B or T3A are the major contributors to this community phase crossing the threshold from an herbaceous plant community to a community dominated by hardwoods and shrubs. The composition of this woody plant community will be dependent upon shading (tree canopy density), management (grazing), and the amount of invasive grass and shrub species.

Successful restoration along Restoration Pathway R5A, can result in a native grass and forb community in State 2.0. Implementation of prescribed burning and/or chemical/mechanical brush management followed by a failed range planting, via Restoration Pathway R5B, can result in an invaded plant community Invaded State 3.0.

Invaded Wooded State 5.1 Green Ash-Bur Oak-Quaking Aspen: Loamy ecological sites supported small patches of trees and shrubs (including chokecherry, prairie rose, and western snowberry). This wooded phase can be scattered or across the entire site; however, the longer the site has been removed from active fire management or other management tools, the more this plant community is enabled to expand. North-facing slopes, river valleys, and concave landscape positions are particularly prone to woody encroachment. The Invaded Wooded State occurs when the Loamy ecological site is located near a seed source for woody vegetation (such as a wooded Loamy Overflow ecological site, forested ecological sites, or a wooded riparian corridor). The removal of all disturbance through Transition Pathways, T2B or T3A are the major contributors to this community phase crossing the threshold from an herbaceous plant community to a community dominated by hardwoods and shrubs. The composition of this woody plant community will be dependent upon shading (tree canopy density), management (grazing), and the amount of invasive grass and shrub species.

The Invaded Wooded State is an important vegetative type used by many large herbivorous mammals and woodland bird species. Multi-level canopy, high edge-to-area ratio, and prevalence of preferred forage provides high quality wildlife habitat. Within MLRA 56A, the Invaded Wooded State provides important travel corridors, security cover, foraging, loafing, winter cover, and parturition (birthing) areas.

Invertebrates: Early season flowering shrubs provide pollen and nectar. However, pollinating insects will need adjacent herbaceous- and forb-dominated ecological sites for mid- to late-season pollen sources. Lower trophic-level consumers (such as invertebrate decomposers, scavengers, shredders, predators, herbivores, dung beetles and fungal-feeders) will use woody plant material, leaves, and limited amounts of grasses in contact with mineral soil. The woody component of this site is not conducive to use by the Dakota skipper, monarch butterfly, and regal fritillary. Woody plant material is available for wood-nesting bees. These wind-protected, moist plant communities provide favorable habitat for flying insects (flies, mosquitoes, moths, etc.). Favorable climatic conditions can lead to large hatches of insects.

Birds: This site no longer provides habitat for grassland-nesting bird species due to the dominance of woody vegetation. Bird species that use and benefit from woodland edge (such as wild turkey, black- billed cuckoo, black-capped chickadee, gray catbird, and Swainson’s hawk) can be found in this community phase. These sites provide nesting habitat for many migratory passerines and quality habitat for ruffed grouse, eastern screech owl, great horned owl, wild turkey, red-headed woodpecker, and non-migrating birds such as woodpeckers (downy, hairy, and pileated), black- capped chickadee and white-breasted nuthatch. Berry producing shrubs provide late summer, fall, and winter forage for many bird species. Wildlife use increases as the depth of snow increases during the winter, thereby becoming critical to the sustainment of winter resident bird populations. The presence of woody plant species may increase mammalian and avian predation and increase brood parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds on adjacent grassland ecological sites.

Mammals: Dead and mature trees provide cavities and loose bark for big brown bat, northern long-eared bat, and little brown bat. Small herbivores that can use or tolerate woodland (such as arctic shrew, pygmy shrew, river otter, American porcupine, cotton-tail rabbit, and snowshoe hare) will benefit from this plant community phase. Shrubs and trees provide security and thermal cover used by white-tailed deer and elk for foraging, loafing, and rearing young-of-the-year. Multi-layer shrub/tree communities provide concealment protection from predators during parturition. Plant species provide highly nutritious forage during peak lactation, one of the most energetic demanding time periods of the year for female ungulates. Winter white-tailed deer diets are dominated by chokecherry, western snowberry, Saskatoon serviceberry, rose, and various species of gooseberry.

Amphibians and Reptiles: This Invaded Wooded State does not provide habitat for species of conservation priority.

Fish and Mussels: Provides similar life requisites as Community Phase 1.1; however, the Invaded Wooded State can occur near or on side slopes above drainageways in close proximity to receiving water bodies. The bare soil found under the tree and shrub canopy may reduce infiltration and nutrient cycling. Run-off, sediment yield, and nutrient load increase from the site which negatively impacts receiving water bodies.

Animal Community – Grazing Interpretations

This site is well adapted to managed grazing by domestic livestock. The predominance of herbaceous plants across all plant community phases best lends these sites to grazing by cattle, but other domestic grazers with differing diet preferences may also be a consideration depending upon management objectives. Often, the current plant community does not entirely match any particular plant community (as described in the ecological site description). Because of this, a resource inventory is necessary to document plant composition and production. Proper interpretation of this inventory data will permit the establishment of a safe, initial stocking rate for the type and class of animals and level of grazing management. More accurate stocking rate estimates should eventually be calculated using actual stocking rate information and monitoring data.

NRCS defines prescribed grazing as “managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals with the intent to achieve specific ecological, economic, and management objectives”. As used in this site description, the term ‘prescribed grazing’ is intended to include multiple grazing management systems (e.g., rotational grazing, twice-over grazing, conservation grazing, targeted grazing, etc.) provided that, whatever management system is implemented, it meets the intent of prescribed grazing definition.

The basic grazing prescription addresses balancing forage demand (quality and quantity) with available forage, varying grazing and deferment periods from year-to-year, matching recovery/deferment periods to growing conditions when pastures are grazed more than once in a growing season, implementation of a contingency (e.g., drought) plan, and a monitoring plan. When the management goal is to facilitate change from one plant community phase or state to another, then the prescription needs to be designed to shift the competitive advantage to favor the native grass and forb species.

Grazing levels are noted within the plant community narratives and pathways in reference to prescribed grazing management. “Degree of utilization” is defined as the proportion of the current years forage production that is consumed and/or destroyed by grazing animals (may refer to a single plant species or a portion or all the vegetation). “Grazing utilization” is classified as slight, moderate, full, close, and severe (see the following table for description of each grazing use category). The following utilization levels are also described in the Ranchers Guide to Grassland Management IV. Utilization levels are determined by using the landscape appearance method as outlined in the Interagency Technical Reference “Utilization Studies and Residual Measurements” 1734-3.

Utilization Level % Use Description

Slight (Light) 0-20 Appears practically undisturbed when viewed obliquely. Only choice areas and forage utilized.

Moderate 20-40 Almost all of accessible range shows grazing. Little or no use of poor forage. Little evidence of trailing to grazing.

Full 40-60 All fully accessible areas are grazed. The major sites have key forage species properly utilized (about half taken, half left). Points of concentration with overuse limited to 5 to 10 percent of accessible area.

Close (Heavy) 60-80 All accessible range plainly shows use and major sections closely cropped. Livestock forced to use less desirable forage, considering seasonal preference.

Severe > 80 Key forage species completely used. Low-value forages are dominant.

Hydrological functions

Available water is the principal factor limiting forage production on this site. This site is dominated by soils in hydrologic group B, but includes some soils in group C. Infiltration varies from moderately slow to moderately rapid; runoff potential varies from low to high depending upon soil hydrologic group, surface texture, slope, and ground cover. In many cases, areas with greater than 75% ground cover have the greatest potential for high infiltration and lower runoff. An exception would be where short grasses form a strong sod and dominate the site. Areas where ground cover is less than 50% 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

Hunting and Bird Watching: The United States Fish and Wildlife Service manages approximately 4,000 acres of National Wildlife Refuges for hiking and bird watching and approximately 24,000 acres of Waterfowl Production Areas for public hunting, hiking, and bird watching. States within MLRA 56A manage approximately 39,000 acres of wildlife management areas for multiple use including hunting, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, berry picking, and other non-motorized uses. Of the 39,000 acres, approximately 21,400 are in Minnesota with approximately 16,000 acres in North Dakota and approximately 1,700 acres in South Dakota.

In North Dakota, the United States Forest Service manages 70,000 acres on the Sheyenne National Grassland for multiple uses including camping, hunting, photography, backpacking birdwatching, biking, horseback riding, and other non-motorized recreation. The Sheyenne National Grassland is also managed for livestock grazing. The Choppy Sands and Sands ecological sites dominate the Grassland. It is the only National Grassland in the tallgrass prairie region of the United States. The grassland provides habitat for greater prairie chicken, as well as several other sensitive species (such as the Dakota skipper and regal fritillary). It also contains one of largest populations of the western prairie fringed orchid which is listed as a threatened species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Fishing: Approximately 20 lakes are managed for public fishing MLRA 56A. Most of these lakes offer boat docks and ramps. These lakes contain various sport fish including walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, crappie, and bluegill. The Red River runs from south to north through the center of the MLRA. The Red River is best known for channel catfish but also has walleye, sauger, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. The Red River is 550 miles long from its source in the southern end of the MLRA near Breckenridge, Minnesota to Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba, Canada. Between North Dakota and Minnesota, there are 32 public access points along the Red River with 18 having boat ramps.

Camping: Four state parks or recreation areas provide of modern and primitive camping facilities. Minnesota hosts the Buffalo River State Park and Red River State Park. North Dakota hosts the Icelandic State Park and Turtle River State Park. These Parks provide hiking, biking, birding, canoeing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many local parks and private parks provide modern and primitive camping opportunities.
Limited primitive camping is also available on North Dakota Game and Fish Department Wildlife Management Areas.

Hiking/Biking/Horseback Riding: Hiking is permitted on most state and federally owned lands. Developed hiking and biking trails can be found the four state parks. The Grand Forks Greenway has over 22 miles of trails while municipalities along the Red River have extensive walking and hiking trails. A 30-mile segment of the North Country National Scenic Trail leads hikers through the Sheyenne National Grassland’s unique landforms and plant communities. This trail has three trailheads along its route; it is a graveled, marked trail. The entire North Country National Scenic Trail stretches from Crown Point, New York to Lake Sakakawea near Garrison, North Dakota.

Canoeing/Kayaking: The Red River has six designated canoe/kayaking trails. Public access, with limited rentals, is available at these segments. Sheyenne River Water Trail has a segment within the MLRA Sheyenne National Grasslands. Canoe/kayak rentals are available at Icelandic State Park.

Wood products

No appreciable wood products are present on the site.

Other products

Seed harvest of native plant species can provide additional income on this site.

Other information

• Further documentation may be needed for plant communities in all states. This site currently includes soils on low terraces of flood plains; a unique, provisional site (Loamy Floodplain) has been proposed to separate these areas from Loamy Overflow soils which occur in upland swales. Plant data has been collected in previous range-site investigations, including clipping data; however, this data needs review to determine which sampling sites occur in upland swales and which sampling sites occur on floodplains. The data also needs review to determine if geo-referenced sites meeting Tier 3 standards for either vegetative or soil data are available; if not, representative sites will be selected for further investigation. Soils of primary interest are La Prairie and LaDelle.
• Further investigation may be needed areas of this site on beaches. The available water capacity in these areas is lower than on other areas where this site occurs. This may impact the plant community during extended, drier than normal periods.
• Further evaluation and refinement of the State-and-Transition model may be needed to identify disturbance driven dynamics. Additional states and/or phases may be required to address grazing response.
• Further documentation may be needed for plant communities in all states. Plant data has been collected in previous range-site investigations, including clipping data; however, this data needs review. If geo-referenced sites meeting Tier 3 standards for either vegetative or soil data are not available, representative sites will be selected for further investigation.
• Site concepts will be refined as the above noted investigations are completed.
• The long-term goal is to complete an approved, correlated Ecological Site Description as defined by the National Ecological Site Handbook.
• NASIS revisions needed:
o Six components (2 major) of Aastad need to be relinked from Loamy to Loamy Overflow.
o Three minor components of Bottineau and 1 minor component of Waukon need to be relinked from Loamy to 55A Loamy Savannah.
o Three components (1 major) of Kelvin and 2 components (3 major) of Olga need to be relinked from Loamy to 55A Upland Hardwood Forest.
o Numerous Gardena components that are currently linked to Loamy Overflow need review. Where they are in complex only with soils that are lower on the landscape, they should be linked to Loamy instead.
o Eleven Kittson components are somewhat poorly drained taxadjuncts. Most occur in map units in the Minnesota part of MLRA 56A. Currently, these components are linked to Loamy, but should be relinked to Subirrigated.
o One major component of Wolverton Aquic Caldiudolls (moderately well drained) should be relinked from Loamy to Thin Loamy. It is a coarse-loamy, lacustrine version of Balaton.
o Two major components of Walsh soils exceed 6 percent slopes; they need to be relinked from Loamy Overflow to Loamy.

This ESD is the best available knowledge. The site concept and species composition table have been used in the field and tested for more than five years. It is expected that as additional information becomes available revisions may be required.

Inventory data references

Information presented here has been derived from NRCS and other federal/state agency clipping and inventory data. Also, field knowledge of range-trained personnel was used. All descriptions were peer reviewed and/or field-tested by various private, state and federal agency specialists.

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Contributors

ND NRCS: Keith Anderson, Fred Aziz, Stan Boltz, David Dewald, Jonathan Fettig, Alan Gulsvig, Mark Hayek, Chuck Lura, Jeff Printz, Steve Sieler, Lee Voigt, and Hal Weiser.

Approval

Suzanne Mayne-Kinney, 5/21/2025