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Ecological site FX052X01X032

Loamy (Lo) Dry Grassland

Last updated: 5/08/2025
Accessed: 05/19/2025

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General information

Provisional. A provisional ecological site description has undergone quality control and quality assurance review. It contains a working state and transition model and enough information to identify the ecological site.

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Figure 1. Mapped extent

Areas shown in blue indicate the maximum mapped extent of this ecological site. Other ecological sites likely occur within the highlighted areas. It is also possible for this ecological site to occur outside of highlighted areas if detailed soil survey has not been completed or recently updated.

MLRA notes

Major Land Resource Area (MLRA): 052X–Brown Glaciated Plains

The Brown Glaciated Plains, MLRA 52, is an expansive and agriculturally and ecologically significant area consisting of around 14.5 million acres that stretches across 350 miles from east to west encompassing portions of 15 counties in north-central Montana. This region represents the southwestern limit of the Laurentide Ice Sheet and is considered to be the driest and westernmost area within the vast network of glacially-derived prairie pothole landforms of the northern Great Plains. Elevation ranges from 2,000 feet (610 meters) to 4,600 feet (1,400 meters).

Soils are primarily Mollisols but Entisols, Inceptisols, Alfisols and Vertisols are also common. Till from continental glaciation is the predominant parent material but alluvium and bedrock are also frequently encountered. Till deposits are typically less than 50 feet thick and in some areas, glacially deformed bedrock can be found at or near the soil surface (Soller, 2001). Underlying sedimentary bedrock largely consisting of Cretaceous shale, sandstone and mudstone (Vuke et al., 2007) is commonly exposed on hillslopes, particularly along drainage ways. Significant alluvial deposits occur along glacial outwash channels and major drainages which include portions of the Missouri, Teton, Marias, Milk and Frenchman Rivers. Large glacial lakes, particularly in the western half of the MLRA, deposited clayey and silty lacustrine sediments (Fullerton et al., 2013).

Much of the western portion of this MLRA was glaciated towards the end of the Wisconsin age with the maximum glacial extent occurring approximately 20,000 years ago (Fullerton et al., 2004). The result is a geologically young landscape that is predominantly a level till plain interspersed with lake plains and dominated by soils in the Mollisol and Vertisol orders. These soils are very productive and generally are well-suited to dryland farming. Much of this area is aridic-ustic and crop-fallow dryland wheat farming is the predominant land use with rangeland typically being found on steep hillslopes along drainages.

Rangeland, much of it native mixed grass prairie, increases in abundance in the eastern half of the MLRA. The Wisconsin-age till in the north-central part of this area typically formed large disintegration moraines with steep slopes and numerous poorly-drained potholes. A large portion of Wisconsin-age till found on the type of the level terrain that would typically be optimal for farming has large amounts of less-suitable sodium-affected Natrustalfs. Significant portions of Blaine, Phillips, and Valley Counties were glaciated approximately 150,000 years ago during the Illinoisan age and due to erosion and dissection of the landscape much of these areas have steeper slopes and more exposed bedrock than areas glaciated during Wisconsin age (Fullerton et al., 1986).

While much of the rangeland in the aridic ustic portion of MLRA 52 is classified as belonging to the ‘dry grassland’ climatic zone, sites in portions of southern MLRA 52 may belong to the ‘dry shrubland’ climatic zone. The dry shrubland zone represents the northernmost extent of big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) steppe on the Great Plains. As similar soils occur in both southern and northern portions of the MLRA it is currently hypothesized that climate is the primary driving factor affecting big sagebrush distribution in this area but the precise factors have so far proven to be elusive and are for the time of this writing not yet fully understood.

Sizeable tracts of largely unbroken rangeland in the eastern half of the MLRA and adjacent southern Saskatchewan are home to the Northern Montana Population of Greater Sage Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) and large portions of this area are considered to be a Priority Area for Conservation (PAC) by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2013). This population is unique among sage grouse populations in the fact that many individuals overwinter in the big sagebrush steppe (dry shrubland) in the southern portion of the MLRA and then migrate to the northern portion of the MLRA which lacks big sagebrush (dry grassland) to spend rest of the year (Smith, 2013).

Areas of the till plain near the Bearpaw and Highwood Mountains as well as the Sweetgrass Hills and Rocky Mountain foothills are at higher elevations and receive higher amounts of precipitation and have a typic-ustic moisture regime. These areas have significantly more rangeland production than the drier aridic-ustic portions of the MLRA and have enough moisture to produce crops annually as opposed to bi-annually in the drier areas. Ecological sites in this higher precipitation area are classified as the moist grassland climatic zone.

Classification relationships

NRCS Soil Geography Hierarchy
Land Resource Region: Northern Great Plains
Major Land Resource Area: 52
Climatic Zone: Dry Grassland

National Hierarchical Framework of Ecological Units (Cleland et al., 1997; Nesser et al., 1997; McNab et al., 2007)
• Domain: Dry
• Division: Temperate Steppe
• Province: Great Plains-Palouse Dry Steppe Province 331
• Section: Northwestern Glaciated Plains 331D
• Subsection: Montana Glaciated Plains 331Dh
• Landtype association/Landtype phase: N/A

National Vegetation Classification Standard (Federal Geographic Data Committee, 2008)
• Class: Mesomorphic Shrub and Herb Vegetation Class (2)
• Subclass: Temperate and Boreal Grassland and Shrubland Subclass (2.B)
• Formation: Temperate Grassland, Meadow, and Shrubland Formation (2.B.2)
• Division: Great Plains Grassland and Shrubland Division (2.b.2.Nb)
• Macrogroup: Hesperostipa comata – Pascopyrum smithii – Festuca hallii Grassland Macrogroup (2.B.2.Nb.2)
• Group: Pascopyrum smithii – Hesperostipa comata – Schizachyrium scoparium – Bouteloua spp. Mixedgrass Prairie Group (2.B.2.Nb.2.c)
• Alliance: Pascopyrum smithii – Nassella viridula Northwestern Great Plains Herbaceous Alliance
• Association: Pascopyrum smithii -Hesperostipa comata Central Mixedgrass Herbaceous Vegetation

EPA Ecoregions
• Level 1: Great Plains (9)
• Level 2: West-Central Semi-Arid Prairies (9.3)
• Level 3: Northwestern Glaciated Plains (42)
• Level 4: North Central Brown Glaciated Plains (42o) and Glaciated Northern Grasslands (42j)

Ecological site concept

The Loamy Dry Grassland site occurs on till plains, hillslopes, outwash fans, alluvial fans, and high stream terraces. This site is characterized by moderately deep to very deep (greater than 20 inches to bedrock) medium textured soils on slopes less than 15 percent. Surface textures are of the fine-loamy or fine silty textural family (less than 35 percent clay) and soils frequently have a mollic epipedon. Calcium carbonate is less than five percent in the surface five inches. The dominant plant community on this site is needle and thread (Hesperostipa comata) and rhizomatous wheatgrasses; primarily western (Pascopyrum smithii) and/or thickspike (Elymus lanceolatus). Other grasses include prairie Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha), blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda) and plains reedgrass (Calamagrostis montanensis). Green needlegrass (Nassella viridula) is present when moisture conditions are made more favorable by soil texture or micro relief. Silver sagebrush is the most common shrub. Figure 1 illustrates the distribution of this ecological site based on current data. This map is approximate, is not intended to be definitive, and may be subject to change. Field verification using the appropriate MLRA key is required for proper identification of this ecological site.

Associated sites

FX052X01X030	Limy (Ly) Dry Grassland Generally, found on crests, shoulders, or summits and where slope shares are convex rather than linear or concave. Soils contain 5% or greater CaCO3 in the surface 5 inches (evidenced by strong or violet effervescence).
FX052X01X040	Loamy-Steep (Lostp) Dry Grassland Occurs on steeper slopes (15 percent or greater) adjacent to the Loamy site. Soils are similar to the Loamy site.
FX052X01X006	Claypan (Cp) Dry Grassland Occupies similar landscapes to the Loamy site. In the natric soils complex Claypan is found in mid-level micro topography whereas Loamy occupies higher positions.
FX052X01X062	Swale (Se) Dry Grassland Generally found downslope from the loamy site in swales and drainageways. Receives additional moisture from surface water run in. Soils are greater than 20 inches deep and mollic or pachic with higher available water holding capacity.

Similar sites

FX052X01X030	Limy (Ly) Dry Grassland Differs from Loamy Dry Grassland in that’ soils contain 5 percent or greater CaCO3 in the surface 5 inches (evidenced by strong or violet effervescence).
FX052X01X110	Sandy (Sy) Dry Grassland Differs from Loamy Dry Grassland in that soils are a Coarse-Loamy textural family in the surface 4 inches as opposed to Fine-Loamy.
FX052X01X006	Claypan (Cp) Dry Grassland Differs from Loamy Dry Grassland in that soils contain an abrupt root-restrictive clay layer within 10 inches of the soil surface.
FX052X03X032	Loamy (Lo) Dry Shrubland Differs from Loamy Dry Grassland in that annual temperatures are slightly warmer and site supports big sagebrush rather than silver sagebrush.
FX052X01X001	Clayey (Cy) Dry Grassland Differs from Loamy Dry Grassland in that soils contain greater than 35 percent clay in the surface 4 inches.

Table 1. Dominant plant species

Tree	Not specified
Shrub	Not specified
Herbaceous	(1) Pascopyrum smithii (2) Hesperostipa comata

Legacy ID

R052XY032MT

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Physiographic features

The Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site is the most extensive ecological site in MLRA 52. The majority of MLRA 52 is covered by a broad till plain and this site largely occurs on ground, recessional or end moraines but can also occur on other landforms such as outwash fans or terraces. This site is typically found on linear and concave slope positions where slopes are less than 15 percent. This site is also found on convex slope positions but in these instances, the soil is most likely to have accumulations of secondary carbonates at depths of only five to 10 inches below the soil surface.

Figure 2. Extent of the Loamy Dry Grassland Ecological Site within MLRA 52 based on soil mapunit component.

Table 2. Representative physiographic features

Landforms	(1) Till plain > Moraine (2) Till plain > Outwash fan (3) Terrace
Elevation	2,000 – 3,870 ft
Slope	14%
Aspect	Aspect is not a significant factor

Climatic features

The Brown Glaciated Plains is a semi-arid region with a temperate continental climate that is characterized by frigid winters and warm to hot summers (Cooper et al., 2001). The average frost-free period for this ecological site is 120 days. The majority of precipitation occurs as steady, soaking, frontal system rains in late spring to early summer. Summer rainfall comes mainly from convection thunderstorms that typically deliver scattered amounts of rain in intense bursts. These storms may be accompanied by damaging winds and large-diameter hail and result in flash flooding along low-order streams. Severe drought occurs on average in two out of every 10 years. Annual precipitation ranges from 10 to 14 inches, and 70 to 80 percent of this occurs during the growing season (Cooper et al., 2001). Extreme climatic variations, especially droughts, have the greatest influence on species cover and production (Coupland, 1958, 1961; Biondini et al., 1998).

During the winter months the western half of MLRA 52 commonly experiences chinook winds, which are strong west to southwest surface winds accompanied by abrupt increases in temperature. The chinook winds are strongest on the western boundary of the MLRA near the Rocky Mountain foothills and decrease eastward. In addition to producing damaging winds, prolonged chinook episodes can result in drought or vegetation kills due to the reaction of plants to a “false spring” (Oard, 1993).

Table 3. Representative climatic features

Frost-free period (characteristic range)	110-130 days
Freeze-free period (characteristic range)	130-150 days
Precipitation total (characteristic range)	10-14 in
Frost-free period (average)	120 days
Freeze-free period (average)	140 days
Precipitation total (average)	12 in

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Figure 3. Monthly precipitation range

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Figure 4. Monthly minimum temperature range

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Figure 5. Monthly maximum temperature range

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Figure 6. Monthly average minimum and maximum temperature

Figure 7. Annual precipitation pattern

Figure 8. Annual average temperature pattern

Climate stations used

(1) CARTER 14 W [USC00241525], Floweree, MT
(2) CHESTER [USC00241692], Chester, MT
(3) TIBER DAM [USC00248233], Chester, MT
(4) HARLEM [USC00243929], Harlem, MT
(5) MALTA 7 E [USC00245338], Malta, MT
(6) TURNER 11N [USC00248415], Turner, MT
(7) CONRAD [USC00241974], Conrad, MT
(8) SHELBY [USC00247500], Shelby, MT
(9) GLASGOW [USW00094008], Glasgow, MT
(10) HAVRE CITY CO AP [USW00094012], Havre, MT

Soil features

Soils that best represent the central concept of this ecological site are the benchmark soil series Joplin, Phillips and Scobey. These three series cover more than 3 million acres of MLRA 52 combined. Scobey and Joplin are in the Argiustolls Great Group and have a relatively dark mollic epipedon and an underlying argillic horizon where clay has accumulated through weathering. Phillips is in the Haplustalfs Great Group and also has an argillic horizon but does not contain enough organic matter in the surface horizons to have a mollic epipedon. Joplin is fine-loamy and has mixed mineralogy whereas Phillips and Scobey are fine family and have smectitic mineralogy. The soil moisture regime for these and all soils in this ecological site concept is ustic bordering on aridic which means that the soils are moist in some or all parts for either 180 cumulative days or 90 consecutive days during the growing season but are dry in some or all parts for over 90 cumulative days. These soils have a frigid soil temperature regime (Soil Survey Staff, 2014).

Surface textures found in this site are typically loam or clay and contain 18 to 35 percent clay. Underlying horizons typically, but not always, have an argillic horizon that contains between 18 to 45 clay depending on the soil series. Organic matter in the surface horizons typically ranges from one to three percent and moist colors vary from brown (10YR 4/3) to very dark grayish brown (10YR 3/2). Depth to secondary carbonates is usually between five and 20 inches below the soil surface.

The surface of these soils does not typically react with hydrochloric acid within the upper five inches and if present at all the Calcium Carbonate Equivalent in the surface five inches is less than five percent. The soil depth class for this site can be moderately deep (between 20 and 40 inches to bedrock) in places where bedrock is present but is typically very deep (greater than 60 inches to bedrock). Coarse fragments are less than 35 percent of the upper 20 inches of soil and are typically less than 15 percent.

Figure 9. Typical Soil Profile

Table 4. Representative soil features

Parent material	(1) Till (2) Glaciofluvial deposits (3) Alluvium
Surface texture	(1) Loam (2) Clay loam
Family particle size	(1) Fine-loamy (2) Fine
Drainage class	Well drained
Soil depth	20 – 72 in
Available water capacity (0-40in)	6.5 – 7 in
Calcium carbonate equivalent (0-5in)	4%
Electrical conductivity (0-20in)	3 mmhos/cm
Sodium adsorption ratio (0-20in)	12
Soil reaction (1:1 water) (0-40in)	5.6 – 9
Subsurface fragment volume <=3" (0-20in)	34%
Subsurface fragment volume >3" (0-20in)	34%

Ecological dynamics

The information in this ecological site description, including the state-and-transition model (STM), was developed based on historical data, professional experience, and a review of the scientific literature. As a result, all possible scenarios or plant species may not be included. Key indicator plant species, disturbances, and ecological processes are described to inform land management decisions.

The Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site in MLRA 52 consists of five states: The Reference state (1.0), the Shortgrass state (2.0), the Invaded state (3.0), the Cropland state (4.0), and the Post Cropland state (5.0).

The Reference state of the Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site is dominated by mid-statured, cool-season perennial grasses and characterized by a rhizomatous wheatgrass-needle and thread community. This site had a minor component of short-statured, cool-season grasses and sedges as well as other mid-statured, cool-season grasses. A variety of perennial and annual forbs as well as prairie, or fringed, sagewort (Artemisia frigida) occur on the site, but their composition and cover vary with climate and disturbance (Coupland, 1961). Lesser spikemoss (Selaginella densa), more locally known and hereafter referred to as dense clubmoss, is a major component of this ecological site that may provide significant ground cover. The cover of dense clubmoss is highly variable and dependent upon fire frequency, climate, and grazing.

Plant communities associated with the Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site evolved under the combined influences of climate, grazing, and fire. Extreme climatic variability results in frequent droughts, which can have the greatest influence on the relative contribution of species cover and production (Coupland 1958, 1961; Biondini et al., 1998). Due to the dominance of cool-season grasses, annual production is highly dependent upon mid to late-spring precipitation (Heitschmidt and Vermeire, 2005; Anderson, 2006).

Native grazers also shaped these plant communities. Bison (Bison bison) were the dominant historic grazer, but pronghorn (Antilocarpa americana), elk (Cervus canadensis), and deer (Odocoileus spp.) were also common. Additionally, small mammals such as prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.), and ground squirrels (Urocitellus spp.) also influenced this plant community (Salo et al., 2004). Grasshoppers and periodic outbreaks of the now-extinct Rocky Mountain locust (Melanoplus spretus; Lockwood, 2004) also played an important role in the ecology of these communities.

Historically, this site experienced relatively frequent lightning-caused fires with estimated fire return intervals of six to 25 years (Bragg, 1995). The majority of these lightning-caused fires occurred in July and August. Historically, Native Americans selectively set small, frequent fires during spring and fall to correspond with the movement of bison (Higgins, 1986).

Frequent fire is no longer a major disturbance to this ecological site due to fire suppression and cessation of fires ignited by Native Americans. This lack of frequent fires has resulted in an increase in litter accumulation in some areas, providing ideal conditions for seed germination and seedling establishment of non-native annual brome species, such as field, or Japanese, brome (Bromus arvensis; Whisenant, 1990). These species have become naturalized in relatively undisturbed grasslands (Ogle et al., 2003; Harmoney, 2007), and their presence can reduce the production of cool-season perennial grasses (Haferkamp et al., 1997). Fire suppression may also be one mechanism that triggers increased cover of dense clubmoss (Rowe, 1969; Shay et al., 2001). The cover of dense clubmoss is generally less on recently burned sites (Dix, 1960; Wilson and Shay, 1990); however, its abundance may also vary greatly from site to site without discernable reason. In general, mechanisms affecting dense clubmoss abundance are not well understood and require further investigation.

Improper grazing of this site can result in a reduction in the cover of the cool-season wheatgrasses and, eventually a decrease in other cool season, mid-statured bunchgrasses, and an increase in blue grama (Smoliak et al., 1972; Smoliak, 1974). Periods of extended drought can reduce mid-statured, cool-season, rhizomatous wheatgrasses, shifting the species composition of this community to one dominated by blue grama and needle and thread (Coupland, 1958, 1961).

Further degradation of the site due to improper grazing can result in a community dominated by shortgrasses such as blue grama and Sandberg bluegrass (Adams et al., 2013). Cover of mid-statured rhizomatous grasses and bunchgrasses is severely reduced or absent. Cover of prairie sagewort can also increase.

Much of the highly productive Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site has been converted to annual cropland. Seeding of introduced grasses, particularly crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), was a common practice on eroded and abandoned agricultural areas after the droughts of the 1930s (Rogler and Lorenz, 1983). Crested wheatgrass is a highly drought tolerant and competitive cool-season, perennial bunchgrass (DeLuca and Lesica, 1996). Crested wheatgrass can invade relatively undisturbed grasslands, reducing cover and production of native cool-season midgrasses (Heidinga and Wilson, 2002; Henderson and Naeth, 2005). Russian wildrye (Psathyrostachys juncea), though less widespread, was introduced in the 1950s to provide forage for livestock (Dormaar et al., 1995). Although Russian wildrye is typically planted in monocultures, this species is not considered invasive. Under ideal conditions, it may be able to spread into adjacent degraded plant communities (Ogle et al., 2012), but such conditions are unlikely in MLRA 52.

When this site is taken out of production, the site is either allowed to revert to perennial grassland or is seeded with introduced species. Sites left to undergo natural plant succession after cultivation can, over several decades, support blue grama and cool-season midgrasses, although cover and production of these species are lower than in the Reference state. However, those sites seeded with non-native species, particularly crested wheatgrass, may persist as this cover type indefinitely (Christian and Wilson, 1999).

The STM diagram suggests possible pathways that plant communities on this site may follow as a result of a given set of ecological processes and management. The site may also support states not displayed in the STM diagram. Landowners and land managers should seek guidance from local professionals before prescribing a particular management or treatment scenario.

Plant community responses vary across this MLRA due to variability in weather, soils, and aspects. The reference community may not necessarily be the management goal. The lists of plant species and species cover and production values are representative and are not intended to cover the full range of conditions, species, and responses for the site. Cover values are presented as foliar cover unless otherwise noted. Species composition by dry weight is provided when describing the herbaceous plant communities.

State and transition model

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Ecosystem states

T1A	-	prolonged drought, improper grazing, or a combination of these factors
T1B	-	introduction of aggressive perennial grasses (mostly Crested Wheatgrass)
T1C	-	conversion to annual cropland
R2A	-	range seeding, grazing land mechanical treatment, timely moisture, proper grazing management (management intensive and costly)
T2A	-	introduction of weedy species combined with improper grazing management and/or drought
T2B	-	conversion to annual cropland
T3A	-	conversion to annual cropland
T4A	-	Cessation of annual cropping
T5A	-	conversion to annual cropland

State 1 submodel, plant communities

1.1. Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread

1.2. Blue Grama and Needle and Thread

1.1A	-	drought, improper grazing management, multiple fires in close succession
1.2A	-	proper grazing management, timely moisture

State 1
Reference

The Reference state consists of two communities. The dynamics of this state are driven by the combined influences of climate, grazing, and fire. Dense clubmoss may be present in any of the phases within this state, however, its density is highly variable and the dynamics of this species are not well understood (Romo and Bai, 2004; Romo, 2011). Research has shown that its density is affected by drought, fire, and hoof action by grazing animals (Coupland, 1950; Van Dyne and Vogel, 1967; Clarke et al., 1947). However, its abundance may vary greatly from site to site without discernable reason. In general, this state is characterized by a predominance of mid-statured, cool-season grasses. As ecological condition declines; mid-statured grasses decrease and are replaced by short-statured grasses such as blue grama and Sandberg bluegrass. Plant community 1.2 is dominated by blue grama and needle and thread, although needle and thread decreases in this phase while blue grama is increasing. Improper grazing management, fire suppression, and drought can transition this state to the Shortgrass state (2). The cool-season, rhizomatous wheatgrass component has low production and decreases in community 1.2. If present on the site, the cool-season bunchgrass green needlegrass also decreases and will become rare or disappear from the site. Shortgrasses, particularly blue grama and Sandberg bluegrass increase in community 1.2 as does prairie sagewort.

Dominant plant species

silver sagebrush (Artemisia cana), shrub
needle and thread (Hesperostipa comata), grass
western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), grass

Community 1.1
Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread

Figure 10. Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread plant community for Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site; Phillips soils. Photo by Montana Natural Heritage Program, Phillips County, Montana, 2012

Figure 11. Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread plant community for Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site; Evanston soils. Photo by Montana Natural Heritage Program, Blaine County, Montana, 2013

This plant community is dominated by rhizomatous wheatgrasses and needle and thread. Both western wheatgrass and thickspike wheatgrass can occur in this community. In northern portions of the Northern Great Plains, particularly the Canadian provinces, thickspike wheatgrass is the dominant wheatgrass in this community phase (Coupland, 1950; Coupland, 1961). Western wheatgrass increases in dominance to the south due to its greater tolerance of higher temperatures and droughty conditions (Coupland, 1961; Cooper et al., 2001). The northern portion of MLRA 52 appears to include the area of transition in dominance between thickspike wheatgrass and western wheatgrass (Heidel et al., 2000; Cooper et al., 2001), but these two wheatgrass species can co-occur. The perennial bunchgrass needle and thread often co-dominates this community in terms of both cover and production. The warm-season, mat-forming blue grama occurs with relatively low cover; however, multiple fires in close succession or prolonged drought can lead to an increase in cover of blue grama and a decrease in the cover and production of cool-season grasses (Coupland, 1950; Umbanhowar, 2004). The cool-season, perennial bunchgrass green needlegrass, typically more abundant on sites with finer-textured soils, occurs on examples of the Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site where microsite conditions enhance soil moisture and provide protection from wind (Coupland, 1950, 1961; Cooper et al., 2001). This community has a minor component of short-statured, cool-season grasses and sedges including prairie Junegrass, Sandberg bluegrass, and threadleaf sedge as well as mid-statured, cool-season species such as plains reedgrass. Commonly occurring perennial forbs include spiny phlox and scarlet globemallow and the subshrub prairie sagewort, but their composition and cover vary with climate and disturbance (Coupland, 1961). The principal shrub on this site, if present, is silver sagebrush, although canopy cover is generally less than five percent. Non-native annual bromes, particularly field brome, have become naturalized on this ecological site. Cover of annual bromes is typically low, but it can vary significantly from season to season depending on seed germination conditions. Frequent fires can reduce litter accumulation enough to limit field brome germination (Whisenant, 1990). However, long-term fire suppression may result in increased litter accumulation and greater germination of non-native annual bromes. The accompanying tables characterize the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread community by the following elements: Plant Community Composition and Foliar Cover Total Annual Production Ground Surface Cover Structure Information in these tables was developed using current field data in conjunction with a review of the scientific literature and professional experience.

Dominant plant species

silver sagebrush (Artemisia cana), shrub
needle and thread (Hesperostipa comata), grass
western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), grass

Figure 12. Annual production by plant type (representative values) or group (midpoint values)

Table 5. Annual production by plant type

Plant type	Low (lb/acre)	Representative value (lb/acre)	High (lb/acre)
Grass/Grasslike	320	640	960
Forb	50	100	145
Shrub/Vine	30	60	95
Total	400	800	1200

Table 6. Ground cover

Tree foliar cover	0%
Shrub/vine/liana foliar cover	0-5%
Grass/grasslike foliar cover	60-75%
Forb foliar cover	0-5%
Non-vascular plants	0%
Biological crusts	0%
Litter	35-65%
Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3"	0-5%
Surface fragments >3"	0%
Bedrock	0%
Water	0%
Bare ground	0-5%

Table 7. Soil surface cover

Tree basal cover	0%
Shrub/vine/liana basal cover	0-1%
Grass/grasslike basal cover	0-5%
Forb basal cover	70-90%
Non-vascular plants	0%
Biological crusts	0%
Litter	0%
Surface fragments >0.25" and <=3"	0-4%
Surface fragments >3"	0%
Bedrock	0%
Water	0%
Bare ground	0-30%

Table 8. Canopy structure (% cover)

Height Above Ground (ft)	Tree	Shrub/Vine	Grass/ Grasslike	Forb
<0.5	–	–	5-15%	2-10%
>0.5 <= 1	–	0-5%	35-60%	0-5%
>1 <= 2	–	0-1%	15-20%	–
>2 <= 4.5	–	–	–	–
>4.5 <= 13	–	–	–	–
>13 <= 40	–	–	–	–
>40 <= 80	–	–	–	–
>80 <= 120	–	–	–	–
>120	–	–	–	–

Figure 13. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). MT005, MLRA 52 (cool season dominant). Typically occurs in Reference or Contemporary Reference State.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
			10	25	45	15	5

Community 1.2
Blue Grama and Needle and Thread

Multiple fires in close succession, improper grazing management, prolonged drought or a combination of these factors can shift the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread plant community (1.1) towards the Blue Grama and Needle and Thread plant community (1.2). This plant community is characterized by an increase in the warm-season, mat-forming blue grama. The cover of blue grama in this phase equals or exceeds needle and thread, which decreases in this phase. Rhizomatous wheatgrasses have low production and have decreased considerably. If present on the site, the cool-season, bunchgrass green needlegrass also decreases and will become rare or disappear from the site. The shortgrass, Sandberg bluegrass and the subshrub, prairie sagewort, increase in this phase. Annual bromes are still present in this community with similar dynamics to plant community 1.1, depending on fire frequency and precipitation patterns. The Blue Grama and Needle and Thread plant community is considerably less productive than the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread plant community due to the significant decrease in cool-season midgrasses. This plant community can return to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle & Thread plant community with proper grazing management and normal or above-normal spring precipitation. Continued improper grazing management will drive this community phase to the Shortgrass state (2).

Dominant plant species

silver sagebrush (Artemisia cana), shrub
blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
needle and thread (Hesperostipa comata), grass

Pathway 1.1A
Community 1.1 to 1.2

Improper grazing management, prolonged drought, multiple fires in close succession, or a combination of these factors can shift the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread plant community (1.1) to the Blue Grama and Needle and Thread plant community (1.2). These factors favor an increase in blue grama and a decrease in cool-season midgrasses (Coupland, 1961; Shay et al., 2001). On the Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site, fires more frequent than the estimated natural fire regime can shift the community to one dominated by warm-season grasses. Repeated removal of litter can elevate soil temperatures, favoring blue grama, which is more tolerant of these warmer and drier conditions (Smith and McDermid, 2014).

Context dependence. Timing of precipitation may affect species composition of perennial grasses.

Pathway 1.2A
Community 1.2 to 1.1

The Blue Grama and Needle and Thread plant community (1.2) can return to the Rhizomatous Wheatgrass and Needle and Thread plant community (1.1) with proper grazing management and normal or above-normal spring precipitation.

Context dependence. Timing of precipitation may affect species composition of perennial grasses.

State 2
Shortgrass

The Shortgrass state consists of two communities. The dynamics of this state are driven by improper grazing management, long-term drought, or a combination of these factors. Primary grasses in the Shortgrass state are blue grama and Sandberg bluegrass. Rhizomatous wheatgrasses and needle and thread have low production and poor vigor in this phase and prairie sagewort is common. Blue grama increases with long-term improper grazing at the expense of cool-season midgrasses (Coupland, 1961; Biondini and Manske, 1996; Derner and Whitman, 2009). Reductions in stocking rates can reduce blue grama cover and increase the cover of cool-season midgrasses, although this recovery may take decades (Dormaar and Willms, 1990; Dormaar et al., 1994). Dense clubmoss may or may not be present in this state and the dynamics of this species are not well understood. In some cases, it is abundant on heavily grazed areas, but in others, it is rare or absent. Its abundance varies greatly from site to site without a discernable reason, therefore, it is not considered a reliable indicator of past grazing use (Montana State College, 1949). Annual bromes are also present in this state. They are naturalized but usually do not have a significant ecological impact, however, their abundance varies depending on precipitation and germination conditions.

Dominant plant species

silver sagebrush (Artemisia cana), shrub
blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda), grass
prairie Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha), grass

Community 2.1
Blue Grama and Sandberg Bluegrass

Figure 14. Blue Grama and Sandberg Bluegrass plant community for Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site; Yamacall soils. Photo by Charlie French (Soil Scientist USDA-NRCS), Blaine County, Montana, 2015

On sites where clubmoss is not present, the Blue Grama and Sandberg Bluegrass plant community occurs as the result of long-term improper grazing management. The plant community becomes dominated by the warm-season, mat-forming blue grama and cool-season shortgrasses, particularly Sandberg bluegrass. Long-term improper grazing management has considerably reduced the cover and annual production of this site, changing the structure of this plant community from a mid-statured grassland to a shortgrass community (Derner and Hart, 2007). Cool-season, rhizomatous wheatgrasses and needle and thread have decreased significantly in this phase, and grazing tolerant species like blue grama and Sandberg bluegrass have increased. Prairie sagewort also increases in this phase.

Dominant plant species

blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda), grass

Figure 15. Plant community growth curve (percent production by month). MT041, MLRA 52 (warm season dominant). Typically occurs in the Short Grass State.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
			5	20	50	20	5

Community 2.2
Blue Grama and Dense Clubmoss

On sites where clubmoss is present, the Blue Grama and Dense Clubmoss plant community occurs as the result of long-term improper grazing management. It is similar to the Blue Grama and Sandberg Bluegrass community in that cool season, rhizomatous wheatgrasses and needle and thread have decreased significantly while grazing tolerant species like blue grama and Sandberg bluegrass have increased. Prairie sagewort also increases in this phase. Dense clubmoss is common in this phase; often comprising more than 50 percent basal cover.

Dominant plant species

blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass
lesser spikemoss (Selaginella densa), other herbaceous

State 3
Invaded

The Invaded state (3) occurs when invasive plant species, primarily crested wheatgrass, invade adjacent native grassland communities. An estimated 20 million acres of crested wheatgrass have been planted in the western U.S. (Holechek, 1981). Since the 1930s, crested wheatgrass has been planted to improve forage for livestock (Rogler and Lorenz, 1983; Laycock, 1988). Beginning in the mid-1980s, crested wheatgrass was often seeded on lands enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP; Roath, 1988; DeLuca and Lesica, 1996). Crested wheatgrass is extremely drought tolerant, establishes readily on a variety of soil types, has high seedling vigor, and provides highly productive early-season forage for livestock (Rogler and Lorenz, 1983). Once established, monocultures of crested wheatgrass can persist for at least 60 years (Krzic et al., 2000; Henderson and Naeth, 2005), as crested wheatgrass stands resist recruitment of native plant species (Looman and Heinrichs, 1973; Henderson and Naeth, 2005; Fansler and Mangold, 2011). Crested wheatgrass produces abundant seeds that can dominate the seedbank of invaded grasslands (Henderson and Naeth, 2005), although crested wheatgrass cover decreases with increasing distance from seeded areas (Heidinga and Wilson, 2002). The early growth of crested wheatgrass allows this species to take advantage of early-season soil moisture, which may result in competitive exclusion of native cool-season rhizomatous wheatgrasses and bunchgrasses such as needle and thread and prairie Junegrass (Christian and Wilson, 1999; Heidinga and Wilson, 2002; Henderson and Naeth, 2005). If already established, the warm-season, mat-forming blue grama may compete successfully with crested wheatgrass (Heidinga and Wilson, 2002), although the ability of blue grama to persist in invaded stands is unknown due to its low seed production (Coupland, 1950) and narrow germination requirements (Lauenroth et al., 1994). Reduced soil quality, (Dormaar et al., 1995), reduced plant species diversity, and simplified structural complexity (Henderson and Naeth, 2005) result in a state that is substantially departed from the Reference state (1).

Dominant plant species

crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), grass
field brome (Bromus arvensis), grass

Community 3.1
Crested Wheatgrass and Blue Grama

Figure 16. Community Phase 3.1 Crested Wheatgrass and Blue Grama plant community for Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site; Ethridge soils. Photo by Scott Brady, Blaine County, Montana, 2014

Encroachment by crested wheatgrass and other invasives common. Rangeland health attributes departed substantially from Reference state

Dominant plant species

crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), grass
blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis), grass

State 4
Cropland

The Cropland state (4) occurs when land is put into cultivation. Major crops in MLRA 52 include winter and spring wheat, as well as barley.

Community 4.1
Cropland

Major crops in MLRA 52 include winter and spring wheat, as well as barley.

State 5
Post Cropland

The Post Cropland state (5) occurs when cultivated cropland is abandoned and allowed to either re-vegetate naturally or is seeded back to perennial species for grazing or wildlife use. This state can transition back to the Cropland state (4) if the site is put back into cultivation.

Community 5.1
Go Back Land

In the absence of active management, the site can re-vegetate naturally and, over time, potentially return to a perennial grassland community with needle and thread and blue grama. Shortly after cropland is abandoned, annual and biennial forbs and annual brome grasses invade the site (Samuel and Hart, 1994). The site is highly susceptible to erosion due to the absence of perennial species. Eventually, these pioneering annual species are replaced by perennial forbs and perennial shortgrasses such as Sandberg bluegrass and blue grama. Depending on the historical management of the site, perennial bunchgrasses such as needle and thread may also return; however, species composition will depend upon the seed bank. Cover and production of cool-season rhizomatous wheatgrasses is low, even after several decades (Dormaar and Smoliak, 1985; Dormaar et al., 1994; Christian and Wilson, 1999). Invasion of the site by exotic species such as crested wheatgrass and annual bromes will depend upon the site’s proximity to a seed source. Fifty or more years after cultivation, these sites may have species composition similar to phases in the Reference state (1); however, soil quality is consistently lower than conditions before cultivation (Dormaar and Smoliak, 1985; Christian and Wilson, 1999), making a shift to the Reference state (1) unlikely within a reasonable timeframe.

Community 5.2
Perennial Grass

When the site is seeded to perennial forage species, particularly perennial grasses such as crested wheatgrass, this community phase can persist for several decades. Monocultures of crested wheatgrass can persist for at least 60 years (Krzic et al., 2000; Henderson and Naeth, 2005). A mixture of native species may also be seeded, which provides species composition and structural complexity similar to that of the Reference state (1). However, soil quality conditions have been substantially altered and will not return to pre-cultivation conditions within a reasonable timeframe.

Transition T1A
State 1 to 2

The Reference state (1) transitions to the Shortgrass state (2) when cool-season midgrasses become rare and contribute little to production. Shortgrasses, particularly the warm-season, mat-forming blue grama, as well as Sandberg bluegrass, dominate the plant community. Improper grazing practices and prolonged drought or a combination of these factors weaken the resilience of the Reference state (1) and drive its transition to the Shortgrass state (2).

Context dependence. Drought may accelerate or exacerbate change. Soils are particularly susceptible to erosion when dry.

Transition T1B
State 1 to 3

The Reference state (1) transitions to the Invaded state (3) when invasive plant species, particularly crested wheatgrass, invade the Reference state (1). These communities are often adjacent to seeded pastures. Exotic plant species dominate the site in terms of cover and production. Site resilience has been substantially reduced and other rangeland health attributes such as reproductive capacity of native grasses (Henderson and Naeth, 2005) and soil quality (Smoliak and Dormaar, 1985; Dormaar et al., 1995) have been substantially altered from the Reference state.

Context dependence. Close proximity to a seed source increases the likelihood of encroachment by invasive species.

Transition T1C
State 1 to 4

The Reference state (1) will transition to the Cropland state (4) when the site is placed into cultivation with crops such as winter and spring wheat and barley.

Context dependence. Drought may accelerate or exacerbate change. Cropped soils are particularly susceptible to erosion during drought.

Restoration pathway R2A
State 2 to 1

Blue grama can resist displacement by other species (Dormaar and Willms, 1990; Laycock, 1991; Dormaar et al., 1994; Lacey et al., 1995). A reduction in livestock grazing pressure alone may not be sufficient to reduce the cover of blue grama in the Shortgrass state (2) (Dormaar and Willms, 1990), and mechanical treatments may be necessary (Hart et al., 1985). Therefore, returning the Shortgrass state (2) to the Reference state (1) can require considerable cost, energy, and time.

Context dependence. Drought may inhibit recovery despite management inputs. Reseedings are more likely to fail during drought.

Transition T2A
State 2 to 3

The Shortgrass state (2) transitions to the Invaded state (3) when invasive plant species, particularly crested wheatgrass, invade the Shortgrass state (2). This transition can occur when native plant communities are adjacent to seeded pastures. Exotic plant species, particularly crested wheatgrass, dominate the site in terms of cover and production. Crested wheatgrass can outcompete native grasses (Vaness and Wilson, 2007), weakening site resilience and impacting rangeland health attributes such as the reproductive capacity of native grasses (Henderson and Naeth, 2005) and soil quality (Smoliak and Dormaar, 1985; Dormaar et al., 1995).

Context dependence. Close proximity to a seed source increases likelihood of encroachment by invasive species.

Transition T2B
State 2 to 4

The Shortgrass state (2) transitions to the Cropland state (4) when the site is placed into cultivation with crops such as winter and spring wheat and barley.

Context dependence. Drought may accelerate or exacerbate change. Cropped soils are particularly susceptible to erosion during drought.

Transition T3A
State 3 to 4

The transition from the Invaded state (3) to the Cropland state (4) occurs when the site is placed into cultivation with crops such as winter and spring wheat and barley.

Context dependence. Drought may accelerate or exacerbate change. Cropped soils are particularly susceptible to erosion during drought.

Transition T4A
State 4 to 5

The transition from the Annual Cropland state (4) to the Post Cropland state (5) occurs with the cessation of cultivation. The site may also be seeded to perennial forage species such as crested wheatgrass and alfalfa or a mix of native species.

Context dependence. Drought may inhibit recovery despite management inputs. Reseedings are more likely to fail during drought.

Transition T5A
State 5 to 4

The Post Cropland state (5) transitions back to the Cropland state (4) when the site is converted to cropland.

Context dependence. Drought may accelerate or exacerbate change. Cropped soils are particularly susceptible to erosion during drought.

Additional community tables

Table 9. Community 1.1 plant community composition

Group	Common name	Symbol	Scientific name	Annual production (lb/acre)	Foliar cover (%)
Grass/Grasslike
1	Mid-Stature, cool season rhizomatous grasses			130–390
	western wheatgrass	PASM	Pascopyrum smithii	120–360	5–50
	thickspike wheatgrass	ELLA3	Elymus lanceolatus	120–360	0–45
	plains reedgrass	CAMO	Calamagrostis montanensis	0–35	0–10
2	Mid stature, cool season bunchgrasses			130–390
	needle and thread	HECO26	Hesperostipa comata	130–390	5–40
	green needlegrass	NAVI4	Nassella viridula	0–165	0–15
3	Short stature graminoids			40–120
	threadleaf sedge	CAFI	Carex filifolia	0–85	0–5
	blue grama	BOGR2	Bouteloua gracilis	15–50	1–8
	prairie Junegrass	KOMA	Koeleria macrantha	15–50	1–5
	needleleaf sedge	CADU6	Carex duriuscula	10–35	2–7
	Sandberg bluegrass	POSE	Poa secunda	0–5	0–5
4	Other Native Graminoids			20–60
	Grass, perennial	2GP	Grass, perennial	20–60	1–5
Forb
5	Perennial forbs			50–145
	Forb, native	2FN	Forb, native	20–60	0–5
	American vetch	VIAM	Vicia americana	10–30	0–5
	spiny phlox	PHHO	Phlox hoodii	10–30	0–2
	dotted blazing star	LIPU	Liatris punctata	5–15	0–1
	scarlet globemallow	SPCO	Sphaeralcea coccinea	5–10	0–2
	upright prairie coneflower	RACO3	Ratibida columnifera	0–5	0–5
	silverleaf Indian breadroot	PEAR6	Pediomelum argophyllum	0–5	0–1
Shrub/Vine
6	Native Shrubs and Halfshrubs			25–70
	prairie sagewort	ARFR4	Artemisia frigida	15–35	0–2
	silver sagebrush	ARCA13	Artemisia cana	10–20	0–5
	winterfat	KRLA2	Krascheninnikovia lanata	0–5	0–1
	broom snakeweed	GUSA2	Gutierrezia sarothrae	0–5	0–1
7	Cactus			5–25
	plains pricklypear	OPPO	Opuntia polyacantha	5–25	0–1

Interpretations

Animal community

Grassland communities within the Loamy Dry Grassland ecological site of MLRA 52 support a diverse animal community. Grasshopper species can significantly impact plant production during outbreaks or periods of drought, competing with other grazers on this site (Branson and Sword, 2010). Grasshopper density and species richness can increase with changes in vegetation structure and composition associated with disturbances such as fire and grazing (Joern, 2005).

Although amphibians use wetlands throughout MLRA 52 for breeding, most amphibian species, including Boreal Chorus Frog (Pseudacris maculata), Western Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma mavortium), and Plains Spadefoot (Spea bombifrons), rely on the surrounding grasslands for survival during the non-breeding season (Semlitsch, 2000; Mushet et al., 2012). Similarly, several reptile species including Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis), Gophersnake (Pituophis catenifer), and Plains Gartersnake (Thamnophis radix) occur throughout grassland communities.

A variety of migratory grassland birds breed throughout this ecological site. Eight bird species that are endemic or restricted to the Northern Great Plains (Knopf, 1996) breed in MLRA 52. The composition of grassland birds varies with vegetation structure (Madden et al., 2000; Henderson and Davis, 2014), and the species composition of the breeding bird community will vary depending upon the state and/or community phase occurring on the site. For example, species such as Sprague’s Pipit (Anthus spragueii) and Baird’s Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii) are more abundant in native, mixed-grass communities (Madden et al., 2000; Davis et al., 2013) associated with the Reference state (1). Similarly, species such as McCown’s Longspur (Rhynchophanes mccownii) primarily occur in plant communities dominated by shortgrasses (With, 2010). Most endemic grassland songbirds have reduced abundance and nesting success in grasslands that have been planted with non-native, perennial grasses, analogous to the Pasture/CRP community (5.2) of the Post-Cropland state (5) (Davis et al., 2013). Other bird species such as Long-billed Curlew (Numenius americanus) and greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) rely on a variety of habitats for nesting and brood-rearing, emphasizing the importance of managing for diverse vegetation structure (Derner et al., 2009).

Upland nesting waterfowl species, including Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis), Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Gadwall (Anas strepera), American Wigeon (Anas americana), Green-Winged Teal (Anas crecca), Blue-Winged Teal (Anas discors), and Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) require extensive grasslands represented by this ecological site for nesting and brood-rearing (Stephens et al., 2005). Additionally, several raptor species including Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus), Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni), and Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis), as well as Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) breed in these plant communities.

Rodents such as Richardson’s Ground Squirrel (Urocitellus richardsonii) and Black-tailed Prairie Dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) play an important role in plant species composition and production through the excavation of soils to create burrows (Bylo et al., 2014). Historically, native ungulate grazers, in conjunction with fire and drought, played an important ecological role in shaping the composition and structure of the plant communities on this site. Historic grazers included bison (Bison bison), elk (Cervus elaphus), deer (Odocoileus spp.), and pronghorn (Antilocapra americana; Knopf and Samson, 1997). Cattle have largely replaced these species as the dominant grazer of this site.

Hydrological functions

Plant communities in the Reference state provide high infiltration rates and minimal surface water runoff and soil erosion. High cover of blue grama in the Shortgrass state may limit the ability of cool-season midgrasses to utilize available moisture.

Recreational uses

This ecological site offers fair to good opportunities for nature observation, photography, and hunting.

Wood products

This ecological site has little to no potential for wood products.

Other products

This ecological site is suitable for grazing by cattle. The site’s productive soils also make this site highly valuable as annual cropland.

Other information

For plant preferences by animal kind refer to: Field Office Technical Guide, Section II, Ecological Site Descriptions, General Information.

Supporting information

Inventory data references

A minimum of 20 low or medium observations are required to meet verification level status. This ESD is citing NRI and 417 data to meet these minimums. Individual observations are listed in EDIT and are viewable behind the login. A corresponding tracking sheet is available in the MLRA office that links the list to the actual observations used in analysis. A total of 29 plots ranging from low to high intensity were used as a basis for this ecological site. Four confidential NRI-GL data plots collected in Blaine, Phillips, and Valley counties in Montana from 2003 to 2020 were reviewed and accepted. Five high-intensity data plots were collected in Blaine, Phillips, and Valley counties in 2012 to 2013. Vegetation data collection protocols followed (Herrick et al., 2009).

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Contributors

Scott Brady
Stuart Veith
Karen Newlon

Approval

Kirt Walstad, 5/08/2025

Acknowledgments

Acknowledgements
A number of USDA-NRCS and partner staff supported this project. Staff contributions are as follows:

Field Data Collection
Montana Natural Heritage Program (MTNHP)

GIS Products, Data Summaries, Contract Liaison
Cathy Maynard, USDA-NRCS

Background Research and Literature Review,
Karen Newlon, formerly MTNHP
Scott Brady, USDA-NRCS

Soil Concepts, Soils Information, and Field Descriptions
Charlie French, USDA-NRCS
Stuart Veith, USDA-NRCS
Josh Sorlie, USDI-BLM
Jack Robertson, formerly USDA-NRCS

NASIS Reports, Data Exports, and Soil Sorts
Bill Drummond, USDA-NRCS

Peer Review and Beta Testing
Kirt Walstad, USDA-NRCS
Jon Siddoway, USDA-NRCS (retired)
Rick Caquelin, USDA-NRCS
Havre Field Office, USDI-BLM
Malta Field Office, USDI-BLM

Quality Control
Kirt Walstad, USDA-NRCS

Quality Assurance
Stacey Clark, USDA-NRCS

Preceding Version(s):
Silty 10 to 14 inch p.z. R052XC217MT (Lacey et al., 2005)
Silty 10 to 14 inch p.z. R052XN217MT (Lacey et al., 2005)

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)	Scott Brady, Karen Newlon
Contact for lead author	Scott Brady 206 25th Ave West Suite 1 Havre, MT 59501
Date	04/08/2025
Approved by	Kirt Walstad
Approval date
Composition (Indicators 10 and 12) based on	Foliar Cover

Indicators

Number and extent of rills:
Rills are typically not present in the reference condition. Slight evidence of rills may occur following a rainfall event, but rills would be short (less than 3 feet) and discontinuous.
Presence of water flow patterns:
Water flow patterns are typically not present in the reference condition. When present, they are most common in plant interspaces on steeper slopes (10 to 15 percent) and are generally disconnected, sinuous, and less than 5 feet long. Slight evidence of water flow patterns may also occur following a rainfall or winter thaw event.
Number and height of erosional pedestals or terracettes:
Pedestals are typically not evident in the reference condition. If present, they are generally limited to steeper slopes (10 to 15 percent), are rare (approx. 1 percent of plants), and less than ½ inch in height.
Bare ground from Ecological Site Description or other studies (rock, litter, lichen, moss, plant canopy are not bare ground):
Bare ground is typically low (less than 5 percent) and consists of small, unconnected patches, particularly where clubmoss is absent or disturbed.

Note: Indicator should be evaluated in the context of current years climate and disturbance patterns. Events such as drought, hail, fire, etc. may increase bare ground. Bare ground is defined as exposed mineral soil without cover from vegetation, litter, surface fragments, or biotic crust (measured by Line-Point Intercept method).
Number of gullies and erosion associated with gullies:
Active gullies are not present in the reference state. Any remnants of gullies on the site have stable vegetative cover and no active erosion is evident.
Extent of wind scoured, blowouts and/or depositional areas:
Wind scoured or depositional areas are typically not evident in the reference state.
Amount of litter movement (describe size and distance expected to travel):
Litter movement is typically not evident in the reference condition. If present, fine litter movement is typically less than 1 foot and is dispersed, with little or no accumulation around obstructions. Large litter movement is not evident.
Soil surface (top few mm) resistance to erosion (stability values are averages - most sites will show a range of values):
The average soil stability rating is 5 to 6, both under plant canopies and in plant interspaces.
Soil surface structure and SOM content (include type of structure and A-horizon color and thickness):
The soil surface horizon averages 4 inches (10 cm) thick but varies from 2 to 8 inches (5 to 20 cm) thick depending on slope, aspect, and climate. It has fine granular structure and moist color typically ranges from brown (10YR 4/3) to very dark grayish brown (10YR 3/2) Soils sometimes have a mollic epipedon. Soil organic matter ranges from 1-3 percent.
Effect of community phase composition (relative proportion of different functional groups) and spatial distribution on infiltration and runoff:
Over 90 percent ground cover reduces raindrop impact, slows overland flow, and increases time for infiltration. Typically, 90 percent or more of the plants are perennials whose root systems stabilize soil structure which in turn aids in controlling runoff. Deep rooted bunchgrasses comprise 20 to 40 percent cover and aid infiltration while 25 to 50 percent cover of rhizomatous wheatgrasses further reduces soil surface exposure to raindrop impact. Shortgrasses (5 to 10 percent cover) fill in plant interspaces and reduce soil surface exposure to raindrop impact.
Presence and thickness of compaction layer (usually none; describe soil profile features which may be mistaken for compaction on this site):
A compaction layer is not present in the reference condition. Soil structure is typically granular or blocky and root restriction is not 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:
Typically, rhizomatous wheatgrasses and cool-season bunchgrasses are codominant functional/structural groups with foliar cover of about 25 to 50 percent and 20 to 40 percent respectively.

Sub-dominant:

Other:
Shortgrasses are a minor component with 5-10 percent foliar cover. Forbs, and shrubs/subshrubs are minor components with 5 percent or less foliar cover each.

Additional:
Functional and structural groups must be evaluated in the context of the current years climate. Climatic fluctuations such as amount and timing of precipitation, temperature, and stored soil moisture may effect composition and structure on the site.
Amount of plant mortality and decadence (include which functional groups are expected to show mortality or decadence):
Mortality is not evident on rhizomatous herbaceous species. Bunchgrasses may show some signs of dead or dying plant parts, but mortality typically does not exceed 5 percent for any given species. Mortality on woody species is typically 5 percent or less per species.

Note: Indicator should be evaluated in the context of current year climate. Events such as drought, hail, etc. may result in increased mortality rates.
Average percent litter cover (%) and depth ( in):
Total litter cover averages about 50 percent but may range from 35 to 65 percent depending productivity and grazing use. This includes all detached plant material, both on the soil surface and suspended in the canopy. Most litter is loosely distributed throughout the canopy and it is estimated that only 5 to10 percent is in contact with the soil surface. It does not typically accumulate to a measurable depth on the soil surface.

Note: Indicator should be evaluated in the context of current years climate and disturbance patterns. Above average precipitation may increase litter amounts whereas events such as drought, hail, fire, etc. may decrease litter amounts.
Expected annual annual-production (this is TOTAL above-ground annual-production, not just forage annual-production):
Total annual production is strongly influenced by climatic factors such as amount and timing of precipitation, temperature, and stored soil moisture and must be evaluated within the context of the current climatic conditions. Estimated annual production expected on this site for below average, average, and above average years is as follows:

Below Average (pounds per acre)
Grasses: 320 to 540 Forbs: 50 to 80 Shrubs: 30 to 55 Total: 400 to 675

Average (pounds per acre)
Grasses: 560 to 720 Forbs: 85 to 110 Shrubs: 55 to 70 Total: 700 to 900

Above Average (pounds per acre)
Grasses: 700 to 960 Forbs: 105 to 145 Shrubs: 70 to 95 Total: 875 to 1200
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:
Potential invasive plants on this site are crested wheatgrass, noxious weeds, and annual bromes. Invasive species are typically absent or constitute less than 5 percent cover in the reference condition. However, annual brome species such as field brome (Bromus arvensis) may exhibit seasonal abundance, depending on moisture and germination conditions, which result in short-term departures from reference.
Perennial plant reproductive capability:
In the reference condition, all plants are vigorous enough for reproduction either by seed or tillers. For grasses and forbs: at least 50 percent of plants are capable of producing seedheads. For shrubs: 50 percent or more of plants are capable of producing flowering leaders.
Note: Must be evaluated in the context of the current years climate. Climatic fluctuations such as amount and timing of precipitation, temperature, and stored soil moisture may effect flower or seed production depending on the particular species.

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Ecosystem states

T1A	-	prolonged drought, improper grazing, or a combination of these factors
T1B	-	introduction of aggressive perennial grasses (mostly Crested Wheatgrass)
T1C	-	conversion to annual cropland
R2A	-	range seeding, grazing land mechanical treatment, timely moisture, proper grazing management (management intensive and costly)
T2A	-	introduction of weedy species combined with improper grazing management and/or drought
T2B	-	conversion to annual cropland
T3A	-	conversion to annual cropland
T4A	-	Cessation of annual cropping
T5A	-	conversion to annual cropland