Lund Easement Baseline Biological Inventory Prepared for: The Natural Resource Conservation Service By: Catherine Jean and Paul Hendricks Montana Natural Heritage Program Natural Resource Information System Montana State Library September 2001 MONTANA Natural Heritage Program Lund Easement Baseline Biological Inventory Prepared for: The Natural Resource Conservation Service By Catherine Jean and Paul Hendricks MONTANA Natural Heritage ■^ Program I^Cttate fllijj I Natural Resource ^MVa Information System £~% MONTANA T qfate Library © 2001 Montana Natural Heritage Program P.O. Box 20 1 800 • 1 5 1 5 East S ixth Avenue • Helena, MT 59620- 1 800 • 406-444-5354 The preferred citation for this document is: Jean, C. and P. Hendricks. 2001. Lund Easement Basline Biological Inventory. Report for the Natural Resource Conservation Service. Montana Natural Heritage Program, Helena, MT. 16 pp. + appendices. INTRODUCTION 2 METHODS 2 • data collection 2 • Data Management 5 • Plant Community Classification 5 • Nomenclature 5 physical setting 6 vegetation description 7 key environmental factors 7 biodiversity values 8 • Mammals 8 • Birds 8 • Natural Communities 10 • Plants 12 other values 12 LAND USE 12 EXOTICS 12 UPLANDS 13 INFORMATION NEEDS 13 MANAGEMENT NEEDS 14 REFERENCES 15 INTRODUCTION The Lund property is part of the Prairie Pothole region of Montana, an area encompassing one of largest mixed-grass prairie and wetland complexes remaining in the Northern Great Plains. This region has high biodiversity values and is considered a focal area for wetland and prairie grassland protection and restoration by the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS, 2001 ) and in Canada, the Alberta Conservation Data Center recognizes Sage Creek watershed as nationally significant (TNC, 1999). Conservation initiatives are increasingly used to help maintain these important habitats for plant and animal species. In the United States, the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) provides private landowners financial incentives to voluntarily retire marginal agricultural land by placing property under conservation easement. The Lund property has a valuable mix of grassland and wetland vegetation and was placed under easement with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) for the purpose of wetland restoration and enhancement. A portion of the easement, on what is known as Wild Horse Lake, was highly modified in the past with dikes and ditches constructed to drain natural hay meadows. NRCS is working together with the landowner on a wetland restoration project that is aimed at reclaiming and restoring a portion of the prairie wetland. This WRP project represents an important effort to restore biological diversity to the Prairie Pothole region in Montana by restoring this grassland-wetland ecosystem. Foxtail Barley METHODS The goal of this project was to compile baseline biological information on the Lund Easement to build a scientific foundation for ecosystem monitoring and assessment and to inform wetland restoration and management plans. Inventories were conducted to gather basic information about key biological resources including presence or absence of plant and animal species of concern and other noteworthy observations. Natural plant communities were sampled and described with emphasis upon those that exemplify the Montana Glaciated Plains landscape. • Data Collection Plant and natural community surveys were conducted during the summer of 2000 and mammal and bird surveys took place on 18-20 July in 2000 and 26-28 May in 2001 . Our inventory was designed to systematically inventory and evaluate the distribution, habitats and status of the biological resources on the Lund Easement. We started by searching the Heritage element occurrence database and checking available literature to identify potential target plant and animal Species of Concern (Carlson, 2001 and Heidel, 2001 ) with habitat in the Wild Horse Lake area. Inventories for several plant species of concern associated with wet or vernally moist areas were cancelled due to extreme drought in 2000 and 2001 . Figure 1. Lund Easement Study Area I Lund Easement CONS ERVATION EASEMENTS f^] USFWS USFS DFWP ^i^| Private Conservation OWN ER S H IP*1 ANAG EM E NT BLM ■ fcORCBuRec!) | CoE fl other Do D NFS USFS ^m Other US DA ^B USFWS B IA Tru si Tribal State Trust | DFWP ■ University S Institutions ■■ County & City ■ Plum Creek I Private Conservation Other private Water In the Field, plant associations were recorded using a Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA) technique to characterize the vegetation across the landscape catena. With this technique, composition and cover of dominant species are recorded for all communities across environmental gradients. The REA technique is favored where the vegetation community has already been classification and described and, documentation within a project areas is the principle objective. Circular 1/10-acre vegetation plots were established in stands with homogeneous vegetation and uniform environmental conditions. We recorded vegetation structure and floristic composition, plot location and environmental data, and made comments on disturbance evidence, exotic species and community size condition and landscape context. Due to limited field time, and the relatively small study area, we documented birds as they were encountered by traversing daily as much of the study area as possible, both via vehicle and on foot. This sampling approach generated a species list, with associated evidence of breeding status, but was not designed to document relative abundance (Bibby et al, 2000). Efforts to locate wetland-related bird species were largely thwarted due to drought conditions both years and extremely limited availability of surface water. However, we visited stock ponds and tanks to document transient wetland species. Dry lakebeds and native upland grassland with ground squirrel activity and sparse vegetation were scanned daily for Burrowing Owl and Mountain Plover, using a 60X spotting scope. We inspected all windbreaks, isolated stands of trees, and abandoned buildings for active nests of raptors and other species. Large and medium-sized mammals were documented whenever encountered, but we made no attempt to sample them systematically. We trapped small mammals in both years. Traps were distributed along trap lines consisting of 10 trap-stations/line. In 2000 we placed one Sherman live trap at each station and one museum special snap trap at alternate stations on each line. In 2001 we placed a single live trap at each station on all lines. Trap stations were 20 paces (about 20 m) apart. Live traps were baited with rolled oats, snap traps with peanut butter. We ran six lines (1-6) for a single night in July 2000 and six more (7- 12) for a single night in May 2001 (see Figure 2, Table 1). Lines 1, 4, and 12 were in upland short-grass habitat; lines 2, 3, 7, and 9 were in stands of lakebed-margin sagebrush; lines 5, 6, 10, and 1 1 were in lakebed depression "grassland"; line 8 was along a fence row in mixed cropland of wheat and crested wheatgrass stubble with sandy soil. Table 1. Small mammals captured on 12 trap lines in the Wild Horse Lake study area. Hill County, Montana. Lines 1-6 were trapped the night of 19 July 2000; Lines7-12 were trapped the night of 27 May 2001 Line I (T37N R12E Sec. 15SWSW) no captures Line 2 (T37N R 1 2E Sec. 1 6NESE) Deer Mouse (4) Line 3 (T37N R 1 2E Sec. 9SWSW) Deer Mouse (4), Northern Grasshopper Mouse (I ) Line 4 (T37N R 1 2E Sec. 8SESW) no captures Line 5 (T37N R 1 2E Sec. 9NWSE) no captures Line 6 (T37N R 1 2E Sec. 9NES W) no captures Line 7 (T37N R12E Sec. 9SWSW) Deer Mouse (3), Richardson's Ground Squirrel (2) Line 8 (T37N R12E Sec. 14NWNW) Olive-backed Pocket Mouse (1) Line 9 (T37N R12E Sec. 8SENE) Deer Mouse (2) Line 10 (T37N R12E Sec. 9NWSW) Deer Mouse (2) Line 11 (T37NR12ESec. 4NWNW) Deer Mouse (1) Line 12 (T37N R12E Sec. 8SWSW) Deer Mouse (2) Deer Mouse = Peromyscus maniculatus; Northern Grasshopper Mouse = Onychomys leucogaster; Olive- backed Pocket Mouse = Perognathus fasciatus; Richardson's Ground Squirrel = Speromophilus richarsonii We also inspected fence lines for raptor pellets; collected pellets were dissected for mammal skull fragments. We based species determinations of all trapped mammals and recovered skull fragments on external and skull characteristics described in Foresman (2001b). • Data Management Community ecology plots were located and recorded with a Global Positioning System (GPS) and later uploaded into a Geographic Information System (GIS). All plot data were transcribed to a computerized database for analysis and permanent storage in Heritage data system. Vegetation maps were digitized using ArcView edit and saved as a shapefile. Digital Orthophotos and USGS Quad maps in Digital Raster Graphic formats were used to digitize vegetation boundaries; community ecology plots were used to identify the vegetation type. The minimum map unit is aproximatelylO acres, leaving many small patch or linear communities unmapped e.g. common spike rush (Eleocharis palustris) within linear sloughs. Community and bird element occurrence data were geo-referenced, digitized and incorporated into the Montana Natural Heritage Program data system. Nest and small mammal trap locations were digitized from latitude and longitude coordinates obtained from 1 :24,000 quad maps. • Plant Community Classification Species composition and cover for each plot was compared to existing classification schemes to determine the community type assignment. Plot assignments to plant association are also evaluated in terms of abiotic site descriptors. We organized our findings within the International Vegetation Classification System (ABI, 2000). The classification is hierarchical and combines floristics at the lowest levels (associations and alliances) and structure (physiognomy) and overarching climate conditions at the highest levels. The Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC, 1997) has approved the upper levels of the hierarchy as a classification standard. In this report, the plant association is defined in terms of the dominant species of the uppermost vegetation layer, and any co-dominant species or diagnostic species in the same strata separated with a dash; understory species are separated with a slash. • Nomenclature The principal floristic references for plant identification are "Flora of the Great Plains" (The Great Plains Flora Association, (1977, 1986)), "Vascular Plants of Montana" (Dorn, 1984) and "Flora of the Pacific Northwest" (Hitchcock and Cronquist, 1973). Plant nomenclature follows Kartesz (1999); as a consequence, recent taxonomic revisions to the wheat-grass tribe (Elymus and Agropyron) have resulted in new names for once familiar sounding scientific names. Thus western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii) in Booth (1950) and Hitchcock and Cronquist (1973) and Elymus smithii in Dorn (1984) is now referenced as Pascopyrum smithii. Synonymy of dominant and indicator plants used in plant association names is presented in Table 2. Common and scientific names of birds and mammals follow the "Checklist of North American Birds, 7 edition" (American Ornithologists' Union, 1998) and "The wild mammals of Montana" (Foresman, 2001a), respectively. Table 2. Synonymy of dominant and indicator plants on the Lund Easement Common name In: Booth (1950), (1966) or Great Plains Flora Assoc. (1986) In: Dorn(1984) In: Kartesz(1999) Thickspike wheatgrass Agropyron dasystachyum Elymtis lanceolatus Elymus lanceolatus Western wheatgrass Agropyron smithii Elymus smithii Pascopyrum smithii Bluebunch wheatgrass Agropyron spicatum Elymus spicafus P seudoroegneria spicata Green needlegrass Stipa viridula Stipa viridula Nassella viridula Needle-and-thread grass Stipa comata Stipa comata Hesperostipa comata Sandberg's Bluegrass Poa juncifolia Poa juncifolia Poa secunda PHYSICAL SETTING The Lund Easement is located 40 miles northwest of Havre at the western end of Wild Horse Lake, a giant depressional wetland associated with the temporarily flooded lake basin (Figure 1). The lake and surrounding lands are part of the Prairie Pothole region of Montana: wetlands typically associated with a wide range of diversity in plant, animal and aquatic life. The easement property consists of approximately 3,212 acres, largely within the historic lakebed on the north and east and to the south, uplands along Spring Coulee Ridge. A few pothole depressions are scattered throughout the easement. The lake bottom is an extensive flat closed basin with areas of large unvegetated mud flats. During periods of high precipitation and snowmelt, surface water from the north drains into the basin and the lake fills to form an ephemeral, or vernal lake. Sage Creek, drains into Wild Horse Lake from the northwest. The rolling to flat topography provides elevation ranges from 2790 feet in the lakebed to 2871 feet on a low ridge to the south and 2886 feet on the Spring Coulee Ridge to the west. Soils are of the Cretaceous Montana Group and were deposited 83 to 64 million years ago when two Cretaceous seas retreated ( Veseth and Montagne, 1 980). Drainage is poor to moderate on flat sites. Fine-to medium textured soils derived from alluvium, with shale, clay, mudstone and siltstone interspersed throughout, support a wide range of grasses, sedges and shrubs (Veseth and Montagne, 1980). Western Wheatgrass Over a forty-year period, mean temperatures ranged from 14 degrees in January to 70 degrees in August. The area receives an average of 10 to 15 inches of precipitation a year with 20%-30% as snow (Nesser et al, 1997). VEGETATION DESCRIPTION The vegetation on the Lund Easement is characteristic of the Montana Glaciated Plains landscape. The uplands, which are largely sandy and thin silty ecological sites, are dominated by Needle-and-Thread - Blue Grama Herbaceous Vegetation (Stipa comata - Boutelouo gracilis - Carex fili folia). Two short grass species, thread-leaved sedge (Carex fHifolia) and Sandberg's bluegrass (Poa secunda) switch in understory dominance throughout this type. Patches of Prairie Sandreed - Sedge Prairie Herbaceous Vegetation (Calamovi/fa longifo/ia - Carex inops spp. heliophilia) occur on sandy upper-slope positions. Isolated potholes have higher clay content and contain one or a combination of western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii), common spike rush (Eleocharis palustris), or clustered field sedge {Carex praegracilis) Herbaceous Vegetation communities. The lake basin experiences flooding during extremely wet years leaving extensive areas of sparsely vegetated mud flats. Black Greasewood / Western Wheatgrass - Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (Sarcobafus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithil) forms an extensive shrub community in the Wild Horse Lake basin. On the Lund Easement, western wheatgrass is by far the dominant natural community and grows as a near monoculture over hundreds of acres. Needle-and Thread - Blue Grama - Thread-leaved sedge Black Greasewood / Western Wheatgrass The lakebed is periodically interrupted by sloughs, old overflow or stream meanders, that contain linear patches of common spike rush. The wettest location on the easement is located along the northern boarder with Canada; this wetland includes a tufted hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa) Herbaceous community. KEY ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS Wild Horse is an extensive closed lake basin. During periods of high precipitation and show melt, surface water from the north drains into the basin; when water is abundant, the lake fills to form an ephemeral, or vernal lake. Wetlands and associated obligate wetland vascular species are associated with Grassy Lake, Sage Creek and it's tributaries as well as overflow ditches and culverts placed to drain meadows during periods of excess water. The region experiences extremes in drought and flooding. BIODIVERSITY VALUES • Mammals Wc detected 10 mammal species during our inventory (Table 3). Another species. Sagebrush Vole, was reported by Dennis Flath (personal communication). None are state Species of Concern (Carlson, 2001 ). but Pygmy Shrew {Sorex hoyi ) is a state Species on Review requiring more data to determine its status. A partial skull of a Pygmy Shrew was found with remains of a Meadow Vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) in an old raptor pellet below a fence line in Section 8. The record represents a range extension of over 300 km E in Montana, as well as a record filling a large northward hiatus into Canada between the Rocky Mountains to the west and North Dakota and Saskatchewan to the east and northeast (Hendricks 2001 ). The shrew may have been carried into the Lund Easement from one of the montane uplands (Sweet Grass Hills, Bears Paw Mountains, Cypress Hills), as this species is most often found in dry conifer forest (Foresman 2001a). Table 3. Mammals detected in the Wild Horse Lake study area. Documentation codes following species names are sight record (S), capture record (C), or remains (R) Pygmy Shrew (Sorex hoyi) White-tailed Jackrabbit (Lepus townsendii) Mountain Cottontail {Sylvilagus nutta/lii) Olive-backed Pocket Mouse {Perognathus fasciatus) Sagebrush Vole (Lemmiscus curtatus) Meadow Vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) Northern Grasshopper Mouse (Onychomys leucogaster) Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) Richardson's Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus richarsonii) Coyote (Canis latrans) Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) R S s c C (D. Flath pers. comm.) R C C,R S, C S, R S We trapped 22 individuals of four small mammal species (Table 1); 16 of the captures were in sagebrush habitat. The Deer Mouse was the most abundant and widespread species (18 individuals from 7 trap lines). Dennis Flath (personal communication) captured 28 small mammals on 7 August 1 979 in "saline lowland range type" in the SE part of Section 10: 26 individuals were Deer Mice and two were Sagebrush Voles. In 2000 and 2001, we captured no voles of the genus Microtus. and runways were absent in the grassland habitats we examined. Voles may have been at a low in their multi-year population cycle, or the drought may have eliminated voles from the vicinity of Wild Horse Lake at the time of our inventory. The single Meadow Vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) we documented (in a raptor pellet), may have been carried to the Lund Easement with the Pygmy Shrew from another locality. • Birds We documented 43 bird species on the Lund Easement and in adjacent areas (Appendix A). Of these, 17 species were confirmed breeding, 9 were probably breeding, and 17 species exhibited no evidence of breeding, although most of the species in this last group undoubtedly breed in the area. The list of species is by no means complete, as the lack of surface water contributed to the relatively few waterbird and shorebird species we observed, as did limited field time at the study site. Extreme drought conditions may have contributed to the absence of some passerine species as well, such as Baird's Sparrow and Grasshopper Sparrow that favor at least some moderately tall (15-40 cm) standing grass (Madden et al, 2000). These two sparrows, one a Species of Concern and, the other on the state Species of Potential Concern list due to declining trend, should be looked for during years of normal or above average precipitation. Both species are local but widespread throughout northeastern Montana (Montana Bird Distribution Committee, 1996). Bird species observed in the study area represent an avifauna typical of northern prairie grasslands in North America, and included three species (Sprague's Pipit, McCown's Longspur, Chestnut-collared Longspur) endemic to the Northern Great Plains. Seven bird species, all confirmed or probable breeders in the study area in 2000-2001, are on the state Species of Potential Concern list due to declining trends (Appendix A). Another three bird species (Ferruginous Hawk, Burrowing Owl, and Sprague's Pipit) are state Species of Concern (Carlson, 2001). Ferruginous Hawk : One tree nest was found in July 2000 at the abandoned residence in Section 8. Although not active at the time, recent whitewash, pellets, and tail feathers identified the nest as belonging to this species and recently active. Two different birds were observed soaring over the area. In May 2001 an active nest was found in the windbreak in Section 22 south of the Lund Easement (Figure 2). An incubating or brooding adult flushed from the nest on 27 May, but nest contents were not checked. It is likely that these two nest sites represent one nesting territory. Figure 2. Bird nest and small mammal trap locations I Enuy.' ,'"--■ UL ^-^tn----^^--"M **H --. ... _-.* £? °% ^ 11 "T" LEGEND ^J Lund Easement X Small mammal trap locations • Sprague's pipit territorial male « Burrowing owl nest m Ferruginous hawk nest (active 2000) • Ferruginous hawk nest (active 2001) 05 1.6 2.5 Miles Burrowing Owl : Two nests in ground squirrel burrows were found in July 2000. One adult and one chick were observed at the nest in Section 15, two adults and nine chicks were observed at the nest in Section 4. In May 2001 a pair of adults was active in the general vicinity of the 2000 nest in Section 4. Following a brief observation period one of the adults entered a ground squirrel burrow along the NW edge of Section 3 and remained below ground. Accumulated pellets and whitewash indicated this site was an active nest, probably occupied by the pair of owls that nested in Section 4 the previous year. Sprague's Pipit : Five territorial males were observed performing aerial song displays during 18-20 July over an extensive portion of dry lakebed in Section 9 where there was dense grass and sedge cover of moderate height (about 20 cm). This area seemed even drier in May 2001 (no green vegetation), and no pipits were seen or heard during that visit. • Natural Communities In all, twelve terrestrial plant communities were documented in the Lund easement. The greasewood / western wheatgrass (Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithii) Shrub Herbaceous community is perhaps the most extensive in the state of Montana; it is found throughout the Wild Horse Lake basin with the greatest area on neighboring land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Figure 3 illustrates the dominant vegetation communities on the easement. Figure 3. Plant associations on the Lund Easements # Vegetatioi P lots I I Li id Ease me it VEGETATION TYPES Bare Soil- Rece ithiCi rttiated CrestedWheatjrass Se m l-i ati ra I G ras s la i d Ciituatd Wi*at ^H Foxtail Barfey n«itac*ois vsgeratioi Mid Fbtrrligedwltl INesfen Wheatgrass Need!? -aid-Thread - B lie Gram a - Thread feat Sedge Herbaceous Vegetatbi Pralrfe Potlofe ■ sage cneic aidAOia«itw«tBio* ti te d 1 a irg ra si W* rt-a: - >:■ \t v*g - Taw i ^H Weston UUIeatgrass (CR P) He rbaceois Uegetatbi West r i Wleatgrass He rbaceois Vegetetbi ',^—^_^^ Two uncommon plant communities were recorded; the first, a silver sage / needle-and-thread grass (Artemisia carta / Hesperostipa comata) Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation was noted along the eastern edge of the ephemeral lake bottom at T37N R12E Section 15. This shrub prairie association occurs in small patches and has a very narrowly circumscribed geographic distribution in the northwestern Great Plains. This vegetation type grows on well-drained benches and gently inclined landforms and has put this community at moderate risk of conversion to agricultural crops in farming landscapes. The other uncommon plant community is the Prairie Sandreed - Sedge Prairie Herbaceous Vegetation (Ca/amovilfa 10 Prairie - Sandreed - Thin-leaved Sedge longifolia - Carex inops spp. heliophilia). This community is also confined to the northwestern Great Plains of the United States and Canada. Stands typically occur on gentle slopes but can also be found on flat land or moderate to steep slopes. Soils are thin sands, sandy loams, and loamy sands, in places derived from sandstone. On the Lund easement, this type occurs as small patches on sandy ecological sites elevated above the lake basin and is codominated by thread-leaved sedge (Carex fill folia) rather than sun sedge. Table 4 lists all twelve communities and gives the state and national rank. Complete community association and alliance descriptions are found in Appendix B. Table 4. Plant Associations documented in the Lund Easement Scientific Name State Rank SC Global Rank Agropyron cristatum Semi-natural Herbaceous Vegetation Crested Wheatgrass Semi-natural Grassland GC Artemisia cana / Hesperostipa coinata Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation Silver Sage/ Needle-and-thread S3 G3 Calamovilfa longifolia - Carex inops spp. heliophilia Herbaceous Vegetation Prairie Sandreed - Sedge Prairie Herbaceous Vegetation S3 G3 Carex praegraci lis Herbaceous Vegetation Clustered Field Sedge Herbaceous Vegetation S'? G3G4 Deschampsia cespitosa Herbaceous Vegetation Tufted Hairgrass Herbaceous Vegetation S4 G4 Eleoeharis pahtstris Herbaceous Vegetation Marsh Spikerush Herbaceous Vegetation S5 G5 Hordetimjubatum Herbaceous Vegetation Foxtail Barley Herbaceous Vegetation S4 G4 Paseopyrum smithii Herbaceous Vegetation Western Wheatgrass Herbaceous Vegetation S4 G3G5Q Poa secunda Herbaceous Vegetation Sandberg's Bluegrass Herbaceous Vegetation Sareobattis vermiculattis / Paseopyrum smithii Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation Black Greasewood / Western Wheatgrass - Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation Sareobattis vermiculatus Shrubland Black Greasewood Shrubland S? G4? S4 G4 S'? G5 Stipa coinata - Boute/oua gracilis - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation Needle-and-Thread - Blue Grama Herbaceous Vegetation S? G5 11 • Plants No plants of concern were noted during the inventory in 2000, however there are several plants tracked by the Montana Natural Heritage program that may occur on the easement. These plants are mostly annuals associated with moist areas. Surveys scheduled for 2000 and 2001 were cancelled due to severe drought in the region. OTHER VALUES Wetlands in northern Hill Co. have been mapped by the FWS as part of the National Wetland Inventory. Wild Horse Lake, Grassy Lake. Sage Creek and scattered potholes are mapped as Palustrine wetlands (Cowardin et al, 1979) that are temporarily or seasonally flooded. An interesting and diverse mesic wet meadow is found along the Canadian border in the western portion of the easement. This wetland includes a tufted hairgrass herbaceous community (Deschampsia cespitosa) intermixed with western wheatgrass. Windbreaks of Caragana (Caragano arborescens) and shade trees planted at the old homestead site provide structural diversity and nesting habitat for prairie birds. Tufted Hairgrass LAND USE Land use is primarily ranching and farming. Agricultural treatments are numerous; many acres of semi- natural vegetation are planted in crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) and many acres are planted as crop wheat. Portions of the old lakebed have been planted to western wheatgrass as part of the Conservation Reserve Program. The hydrology of the lake basin has been highly modified. A series of dams, dikes, drainage and spreader ditches contain and control water during seasons of high water. Otherwise the lake basin is arid and lacks permanent water. On the easement, at least three water developments (wells) are in place, although it is not known if any of these still yield water. EXOTICS One noxious weed and several exotic plants, some of which are known to increase and invade natural communities are found on the easement. Unfortunately the noxious weed, Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), is very abundant around overflow culverts and drainages ditches that are used to drain hay meadows during periods of excess water. Other notable introduced exotic species include smooth brome (Bromtts inermis), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare), great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida), and wild licorice (Glycyrrhizo lepidota). 12 UPLANDS Ranching and farming occur on adjacent private property. Rangelands managed by the Bureau of Land Management occur east of the property and State Trust Lands found at T37N, R12E Section 16 are used as cattle allotments. INFORMATION NEEDS Additional surveys are needed to complete the mammal and bird inventories. The study area falls within the range of two globally rare species on the state Species of Concern List, the G3 Swift Fox (Vulpes velox) and the G2 Mountain Plover (Charadrius montanus). Swift Fox has been reported in recent years in Hill County (Foresman, 2001a) and has reoccupied portions along the Canadian border (Jody Peters personal communication). The Mountain Plover has been reported breeding in Canada only in adjacent portions of Alberta and Saskatchewan near the international border (Wallis and Wershler, 1981). Although there are no reports from Montana in the vicinity of Wild Horse Lake, the study area deserves to be thoroughly surveyed for this bird species. These species aside, additional small mammal trapping is recommended to determine the presence or absence of Pygmy Shrew in the area. Bird surveys during years of normal or above normal precipitation are also recommended to identify the wetland species using the site when surface water is present. Currently this is largely unknown. Baseline inventory for plants of concern should take place during a wet year. Eight annual and one perennial plant species that are wetland obligate or facultative wetland species (Reed, 1996) were identified to have potential habitat on the easement (Heidel, personal communication). These species are listed in Table 5. Species descriptions including distinguishing characteristics and habitat are available on the Montana Natural Heritage Program World Wide Web page (MTNHP, 2001 ). Table 5. Plant species of concern that may potentially occur on the Lund Easement Common name followed by Scientific name Wetland rating 1 Global Rank State Rank California Waterwort Elatine California! Gray OBL G5 SU Dense-flower Knotweed Polygonum po/yga hides ssp eonfertiflonun FACW+. OBL G4G5T3T4 SU Dwarf Wooly-heads Psilocarphus brevissinttts var brevissimus FACW+. OBL G5T? S2 Guadalupe Water-nymph Najas guadalupensis (Spreng.) Magnus OBL G5 SI Hutchinsia Hutehinsia procumbens (L.) Desv FAC G5 SI Poison Suckleya Sitck/eya snck/eyatui (Ton.) Rydb F AC, OBL G5 SU Roundleaf Water-hyssop Bacopa rotundifolia (Michx.) Wettst. OBL G5 SI Scarlet Ammannia Amntatmia coccinea Rottb. OBL G5 SH Short-seeded Water-wort Elatine brachyspenna Gray FACW, OBL G5 SU Slender Bulrush Scirpus heteroehaetus Chase OBL G5 SI S lender-branched Popcorn-flower P/agiobothrys leptocladus (Greene) I.M. Johnston FACW, OBL G4 SI Obligate Wetland (OBL): Species that occur almost always (estimated probability >99%) under natural conditions in wetlands. Facultative Wetland (FACW): Species that usually occur in wetlands (estimated probability 67% -99%), but occasionally found in non-wetlands. Facultative (FAC): Species that are equally likely to occur in wetlands or non-wetlands (estimated probability 34%-66%). 13 MANAGEMENT NEEDS Maintaining diversity of native prairie cover and structure through appropriate rotational grazing techniques and prescribed fire on upland areas will help assure the continued presence of a relatively complete grassland bird fauna whose nesting habitat and vegetation-structure requirements vary among species. Studies to determine the effects of landscape patch size on breeding success of these species would also be useful. It would also be useful to develop models predicting the impact of water impoundment on species that currently use the dry lakebed for nesting. A strategic weed management plan is needed to treat Canada thistle before this noxious weed (Rice, 2001 ) invades less disturbed natural communities on the easement. Canada thistle is an aggressive, creeping perennial weed that invades cultivated fields, natural hay meadows and prairies and reduces forage consumption. An integrated long-term control plan designed to stress the plant and force it to use stored root nutrients is suggested. An integrated approach utilizes a combination of cultural, chemical, mechanical and biological methods. 14 REFERENCES American Ornithologists' Union. 1998. Check-list of North American Birds. 7 edition. American Ornithologists' Union, Washington, D.C. 829 pp. Association for Biodiversity Information (ABI). 2001. International classification of ecological communities: terrestrial vegetation. Natural Heritage Central Databases. The Association for Biodiversity Information, Arlington, VA. Bibby, C. J., N. D. Burgess, D. A. Hill, and S. H. Mustoe. 2000. Bird census techniques Second edition. Academic Press, London, UK. 302 pp. Booth, W. E. 1950. Flora of Montana, part 1, conifers and monocots. The Research Foundation at Montana State College, Bozeman, MT. 232 pp. Booth, W. E., and J. C. Wright. 1966. Flora of Montana, part 2, dicotyledons. Department of Botany and Microbiology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT. 305 pp. Carlson, J., 2001. Coordinator, Montana Animal Species of Concern Committee. Montana Animal Species of Concern. Montana Natural Heritage Program and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Helena. Montana. 12pp. Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet, and E. T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Biological Services Program, FWS/OBS-79/31, Washington D.C. Dorn, R. D. 1984. Vascular Plants of Montana. Mountain West Publishing, Cheyenne, WY. 276 pp. FGDC (Federal Geographic Data Committee). 1997. FGDC Vegetation Classification and Information Standards. FGDC Secretariat, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, Virginia, USA. http://www.nbs.gov/fgdc.veg . Fish and Wildlife Service. 2001 . Montana Partners for Fish and Wildlife, Milk River Basin Focus Area. http://mountain-prairie.fws.gov/pfw/montana/mt3g.htm . Data last accessed on September 20, 2001. Foresman, K. R. 2001a. The wild mammals of Montana. Special Publication No. 12. American Society of Mammalogists, Lawrence, Kansas. 278 pp. Foresman, K. R. 2001b. Key to the mammals of Montana. University of Montana Bookstore, Missoula, Montana. 92 pp. Heidel, B. 2001 . Plant Species of Concern. Montana Natural Heritage Program, Helena Montana. 38 pp. Hendricks, P. 2001. A significant new record of Pygmy Shrew, Sorex hoyi, on the Montana-Alberta border. Canadian Field-Naturalist 115: in press. Hitchcock and Cronquist. (1973). Flora of the Pacific Northwest. University of Washington Press, Seattle, WA. 730 pp. 15 Kartesz, J.T. 1999. A Synonymized Checklist and Atlas with Biological Attributes for the Vascular Flora of the United States, Canada, and Greenland. First Edition. In: Kartesz, J.T. and C.A. Meacham. Synthesis of the North America Flora, Version 1 .0 North Carolina Botanical Garden, Chapel Hill, NV. August. Madden, E. M., R. K. Murphy, A. J. Hansen, and L. Murray. 2000. Models for guiding management of prairie bird habitat in northwestern North Dakota. American Midland Naturalist 144:377-392. Montana Bird Distribution Committee. 1996. Skaar's Montana bird distribution, fifth edition. Special Publication No. 3. Montana Natural Heritage Program, Helena, Montana. 130 pp. Montana Natural Heritage Program. 2001 . Plant Species Field Guide, The Montana Natural Heritage Program, http://nhp.nris.state.mt.us/ . Nesser, J. A., G. L. Ford, C. L. Maynard, and D. S. Page-Dumroese. 1997. Ecological units of the Northern Region: subsections. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station, General Technical Report INT-GTR-369. Ogden, UT. Reed, Jr., Porter B. 1996. National List of Vascular Plant Species That Occur in Wetlands: 1996 National Summary (1996 National List). U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Biol. Rep. 88 (24). 244 pp. Rice, P.M. 2001. INVADERS Database System ( http://invader.dbs.umt.edu ). Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812-4824. The Great Plains Flora Committee. 1 977. Atlas of the Flora of the Great Plains. Iowa University Press, Ames. 600 pp. The Great Plains Flora Committee. 1 986. Flora of the Great Plains. University Press of Kansas Lawrence. 1392 pp. The Nature Conservancy. 1999. Ecoregional Planning in the Northern Great Plains Steppe, NGPS Ecoregional Planning Team. 76 pp. plus maps. Tu, M., Hurd, C, & J.M. Randall, 2001. Weed Control Methods Handbook, The Nature Conservancy, http://tncweeds.ucdavis.edu . Version: April 2001. Veseth, R., and J. C. Montagne. 1980. Geologic parent materials of Montana soils. Montana Agricultural Experiment Station, Montana State University, Bozeman, and USDA-Soil Conservation Service, Bozeman. Montana. Bulletin 721. Wallis, C. A., and C. R. Wershler. 1981. Status and breeding of Mountain Plovers (Charadrius montamts) in Canada. Canadian Field-Naturalist 95:133-136. 16 Appendix A. Birds observed in the Wild Horse Lake study area, Hill County, Montana. Breeding status codes are as follows: O (no evidence of breeding), b (strong evidence of breeding; territorial behavior, pairs, juveniles), B (breeding confirmed; nests found, dependent young). Species common names in bold are Montana Species of Concern; species common names in italics are on the Species of Potential Concern List due to declining trends (Carlson, 2001 ). Names and sequence follow the A.O.U. Checklist, 7 ,h edition ( 1 998). Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) M allard (Anas platyrhynchus) Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus) Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo rega/is) Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) Prairie Falcon (Fa/co mexicanus) Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) Sharp-tailed Grouse (Tympanuchus phasianellus) Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) Willet (Catoptrophorus semi pa J mat us) Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia Jongicauda) Long-billed Curlew (Numenius americanus) Marbled Godwit (Limosa fedoa) Wilson's Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor) Mourning Dove (Zenaida macron ra) Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor) Say's Phoebe (Sayornis saya) Western Kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis) Eastern Kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus) Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris) Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum) European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) Sprague's Pipit (Anthus spragueii) Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida) Brewer's Sparrow (Spizella breweri) Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus) Lark Sparrow (Chondestes grammacus) Lark Bunting (Calamospiza melanocorys) Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis) McCown's Longspur (Calcarius mccownii) Chestnut-collared Longspur (Calcarius ornatus) Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) Brewer's Blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus) Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula) Brown-headed Cowbird (Mofothrus ater) O (flyover; 2001) 0(2001) 0(2000,2001) B (2 nests; 2000, 2001) 0(2000,2001) B (2 nests; 2000, 2001) 0(2001) O (2000) O (2000) b (2 immatures; 2000) B (downy young; 2001) 0(2001) 0(2000,2001) b (pair; 2001) 0(2001) 0(2001) B (10 nests in wind break; 2001) B (adult + downy chick; 2001) B (3 nests, incl. broods; 2000, 2001) O (2000) 0(2000,2001) 0(2000,2001) 0(2000,2001) B (nest with eggs; 2000) B (1 brood; 2000: 2 nests; 2001) b (fledged young; 2000, 2001) B (nests in buildings; 2000, 2001) O (in wind break; 2001) B (3 nests in wind break; 2001) b (5 territorial males; 2000) b (singing males; 2001) B (dependent fledglings; 2000) B (nest with eggs; 2001) b (singing males; 2001) B (2 nests with eggs or young; 2000) B (nest with young: 2000) b (singing males; 2000, 2001) B (nest with eggs; 2001) b (singing males; 2001) b (singing males; 2000, 2001) B (10 nests in wind break; 2001) 0(2001) B (juv. with Lark Bunting; 2000) Appendix A INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES: TERRESTRIAL VEGETATION OF THE UNITED STATES Wild Horse Lake: Lund Easement Report from Biological Conservation Datasystem September, 2001 by Association for Biodiversity Information 1101 Wilson Blvd., 15 ,h floor Arlington, VA 22209 This subset of the International Classification of Ecological Communities (ICEC) covers vegetation alliances and associations attributed lo the Hill County, Montana. This community classification has been developed in consultation with many individuals and agencies and incorporates information from a variety of publications and other classifications. Appendix I Copyright © 2001 The Association for Biodiversity Information, 1 101 Wilson Blvd, 15 floor Arlington, VA 22209, U.S.A. All Rights Reserved. The following citation should be used in any published materials, which reference these data: The Association for Biodiversity Information. 2001. International Classification of Ecological Communities: Terrestrial Vegetation. Natural Heritage Central Databases. The Association for Biodiversity Information, Arlington, VA. Restrictions on Use: Permission to use, copy and distribute these data is hereby granted under the following conditions: 1. The above copyright notice must appear in all documents and reports; 2. Any use must be for informational purposes only and in no instance for commercial purposes; 3. Some data may be altered in format for analytical purposes, however the data should be referenced using the citation above. Any rights not expressly granted herein are reserved by The Association for Biodiversity Information. Except as expressly provided above, nothing contained herein shall be construed as conferring any license or right under any Association for Biodiversity Information copyright. Information Warranty Disclaimer: All data are provided as is without warranty as to the currentness, completeness, or accuracy of any specific data. The Association for Biodiversity Information hereby disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to these data, including but not limited to all implied warranties and conditions of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement. In no event shall the Association for Biodiversity Information be liable for any special, indirect, incidental, consequential damages, or for damages of any kind arising out of or in connection with the use of these data. Because the data in the Natural Heritage Central Databases are continually being updated, it is advisable to refresh data at least once a year after its receipt. The data provided are for planning, assessment, and informational purposes. Site specific projects or activities should be reviewed for potential environmental impacts with appropriate regulatory agencies. Appendix TABLE OF CONTENTS HI.A.4.N.C. Temporarily flooded microphyllous shrub/and 2 III.A.4.N.C.2. ARTEMISIA CANA TEMPORARILY FLOODED SHRUBLAND ALLIANCE 2 Artemisia cana / Pascopyrum smithii Shrubland 3 III.B.3.N.b. Intermittently flooded extremely xeromorphie deciduous subdesert shrubland 5 IILB.3.N.b.3. SARCOBATUS VERMICULATUS INTERMITTENTLY FLOODED SHRUBLAND ALLIANCE 5 Sarcobatus vermiculatus Shrubland 6 V.A.5.N.C. Medium-tall sod temperate or subpolar grassland 8 V.A.5.N.C.29. HESPEROSTIPA COMATA - BOUTELOUA GRACILIS HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 8 Hesperostipa comata - Bouteloua gracilis - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation 9 V.A.5.N.C.27. PASCOPYRUM SMITHII HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 12 Pascopyrum smithii Herbaceous Vegetation 13 V.A.5.NJ. Temporarily flooded temperate or subpolar grass/and 15 V.A.5.N.J.22. HORDEUM JUBATUM TEMPORARILY FLOODED HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 15 Hordeum jubatum Herbaceous Vegetation 16 V.A.5.N.k. Seasonally flooded temperate or subpolar grass/and 17 V.A.5.N.k.58. CAREX PRAEGRACILIS SEASONALLY FLOODED HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 17 Carex praegracilis Herbaceous Vegetation 18 V.A.5.N.k.47. DESCHAMPSIA CAESPITOSA SEASONALLY FLOODED HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 19 Deschampsia caespitosa Herbaceous Vegetation 20 V.A.5.N.k.61. ELEOCHARIS PALUSTRIS SEASONALLY FLOODED HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE... 21 Eleocharis palustris Herbaceous Vegetation 22 V.A.5.N.k.49. POA SECUNDA SEASONALLY FLOODED HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 24 Poa secunda Herbaceous Vegetation 25 V.A.7.N.e. Medium-tall temperate or subpolar grassland with a sparse needle-leaved or microphyllous evergreen shrub layer 26 V.AJ.N.e.l 1. ARTEMISIA CANA SHRUB HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 26 Artemisia cana / Hesperostipa comata Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation 27 V.A.7.N.n. Intermittently flooded temperate or subpolar grass/and with a sparse xeromorphie (evergreen and/or deciduous) shrub layer 29 V.A.7.N.n.l. SARCOBATUS VERMICULATUS INTERMITTENTLY FLOODED SHRUB HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE 29 Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithii - (Elymus lanceolatus) Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation 30 Appendix B II I.A.4.N.C. Temporarily flooded microphyllous shrubland HI.A.4.N.C.2. ARTEMISIA CANA TEMPORARILY FLOODED SHRUBLAND ALLIANCE Silver Sagebrush Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance Alliance Concept Summary: This alliance is found in the northwestern Great Plains and interior northwestern United States. This description is based largely on the type within this alliance that occurs in North and South Dakota. Stands of this alliance are found predominantly on floodplains or flat terraces near watercourses. The soils are derived from alluvial deposits and are often not well-developed. They are almost always loams, either sandy loams, silt loams, or clay loams. Flooding may occur periodically. Stands within this alliance are dominated by shrubs and graminoids approximately 1 m tall. Total vegetation cover is moderate. Graminoids make up the majority of the canopy, but the shrub layer is taller and thus more noticeable. Artemisia cana is the dominant, and often only, shrub in this stratum. Symphoricarpos occidentalis is present to common in some stands. There are also shorter shrubs such as Artemisia frigida, Krascheninnikovia Janata, Rosa woodsii, and Gutierrezia sarothrae. These rarely exceed 0.5 m. The most abundant midgrass in the Midwest is Pascopyrum smithii* with smaller amounts of Nass el la viridula, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Koeleria macrantha, and Poa pratensis. The shortgrass Bouteloua gracilis is usually present and may be very common. Forbs are present but do not contribute much of the vegetation cover in this alliance. Among the forbs that are typically found in this alliance are Achillea millefolium, Gaura coccinea, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Lactuca tatarica var. pulchella* and Taraxacum officinale. Environment: These shrublands occur throughout the northern half of the Intermountain West, usually at middle elevations (1000-2500 (3000) m), and into the northern Great Plains at 500-1000 m in elevation. Across the range of the alliance there is great variation in precipitation, with less than 25 cm in semi-arid basins of the western Great Basin. In the northwestern Great Plains this alliance is found on flat alluvial deposits on floodplains, terraces or benches, or alluvial fans. The soils are moderately deep to deep and either silt loam, clay loam, or sandy loam. Flooding may occur periodically and this tends to retard soil development. In the northern Great Basin (Oregon) stands are found in playas on sites that are flooded for several months during the winter and early spring but which rapidly dry up as the weather warms. Soils are saline. In more saline soils at slightly lower elevations on the playa, Artemisia cana / Eleocharis palustris and Eleocharis palustris communities occur. In general, these communities show an affinity for mild topography, fine to somewhat coarse alluvial soils, and some source of subsurface moisture. Vegetation: This vegetation is reported from the northwestern Great Plains and interior northwestern United States. In all stands, Artemisia cana is the dominant, and often, only shrub, but Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus) is usually present. Other shorter shrubs may occur or even be common, including Symphoricarpos occidentalis, Artemisia frigida, Rosa woodsii, and Gutierrezia sarothrae. There is usually a well-developed graminoid layer, with cover often exceeding the cover of the shrub layer. The dominant species include Pascopyrum smithii* or Poa secunda. Other important grasses include Distichlis spicata, Elymus elymoides, Nasse/la viridula, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Bouteloua gracilis, Koeleria macrantha, or Eleocharis palustris. Forbs are present but do not contribute much of the vegetation cover. Among the forbs that are typically found in Great Plains stands are Achillea millefolium, Gaura coccinea, Sphaeralcea coccinea* and Lactuca tatarica var. pulchella. In Oregon stands, forbs include Lupinus argenteus, Trifolium gymnocarpon. Astragalus lentiginosus, Polyctenium fremontii ', and Camissonia tanacetifolia. Dynamics: These communities occur in mild alluvial terrain which is often grazed by domestic livestock and is strongly preferred during the growing season (Padgett et al. 1988). Prolonged livestock use of these habitats can cause decreases in the abundance of native bunch grasses and increases in cover of shrubs and non-native species, such as Poa pratensis. Artemisia cana resprouts vigorously following spring fire, and this method may serve to increase shrub coverage of stands. Conversely, fire in the fall may decrease shrub abundance (Hansen et al. 1995). Sarr (1995) noted that Artemisia cana was associated with higher floodplain terraces of alluvial meadows where the late summer water table averaged 0.8-1.5 m below the surface. Gully erosion of meadows led to an invasion of this type to formerly wet meadows. Comparisons of grazed and protected floodplain sites showed a tendency for Artemisia cana to occur more commonly in grazed than ungrazed habitats of the similar groundwater hydrology. Appendix I Alliance Distribution Range: This alliance is found in the western United States in Oregon, possibly Nevada, and Montana. One community extends into the northwestern Great Plains in the western portions of Nebraska, and North and South Dakota. The alliance probably also occurs in Alberta and Saskatchewan, Canada. Nations: CA? US States/Provinces: CA? MT ND NE NV? OR SD USFS Ecoregions: 251Aa:CCC, 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 33IG:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M331A:CC, M332B:C?, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332G:CC Alliance Sources Authors: D. SARR, WCS Identifier: A.843 References: Chappell et al. 1997, Faber-Langendoen et al. 1996, Hansen et al. 1984, Hansen et al. 1991, Hansen et al. 1995, Hanson and Whitman 1938, Johnston 1987, Manning and Padgett 1991, Manning and Padgett 1995, Oregon Natural Heritage Program (ORNHP) n.d., Sarr 1995, U.S. Forest Service (USFS) 1992 ARTEMISIA CANA/PASCOPYRUMSMITHIISHRUBLAND Silver Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrubland Silver Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrub/and Element Concept Summary: This silver or coaltown sagebrush shrubland is found in the northwestern Great Plains and Rocky Mountains of the western United States. Stands occur on flat alluvial deposits on floodplains, terraces or benches, or alluvial fans. The soils are moderately deep to deep and either silt loam, clay loam, or sandy loam. Flooding may occur periodically and this tends to retard soil development. This community is dominated by a combination of shrubs and graminoids. The total vegetation cover is moderate. The tallest and most conspicuous stratum in this community is a shrub layer that is usually 0.6-1 .2 m. Artemisia cana is the dominant in this layer and may be accompanied by Symphoriearpos oceidentalis. Also present are shorter shrubs such as Artemisia frigida, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Rosa woodsii, and Gutierrezia sarothrae. The most abundant graminoid is Paseopyrum smithii. This species is typically 0.5-1 .0 m tall. It is often accompanied by Nassella viridula and sometimes Koe/eria macrantha, Poa pratensis, and Hesperostipa eomata (= Stipa comata). Bouteloua gracilis is the most abundant short graminoid. Typical forb constituents of this community are Achillea millefolium, Gaura coccinea, Sphaera/cea coccinea* and Lactuca tatarica var. pu/chel/a. Environment: This community occurs on flat alluvial deposits on floodplains, terraces or benches, or alluvial fans. The soils are moderately deep to deep (USFS 1 992) and either silt loam, clay loam, or sandy loam (Johnston 1 987, Hansen and Hoffman 1988). The soils may have moderate salt content (Hanson and Whitman 1938). Flooding occurs periodically and this tends to retard soil profile development (Hirsch 1 985). Vegetation: This community is dominated by a combination of shrubs and graminoids. The total vegetation cover is typically moderate, but depends on frequency of flooding. The tallest and most conspicuous stratum is a shrub layer that is usually 0.6-1.2 m (Hansen and Hoffman 1988). In 14 stands in western North Dakota shrubs averaged 28% canopy cover, graminoids 59%, and forbs 2% (USFS 1992). Stands in Nebraska often have less than 15% cover. The variation in soils within and between stands of this community results in variable species composition. Artemisia cana is the dominant shrub. Symphoriearpos oceidentalis is frequently present. There are also shorter shrubs such as Artemisia frigida, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Rosa woodsii, and Gutierrezia sarothrae. The most abundant graminoid is Paseopyrum smithii. This species is typically 0.5- 1 .0 m tall. It is often accompanied by Nassella viridula and sometimes Koeleria macrantha, Poa pratensis, and Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata). Bouteloua gracilis is the most abundant short graminoid. Typical forb constituents of this community are Achillea millefolium, Gaura coccinea, Sphaera/cea coccinea, and Lactuca tatarica var. pu/chel/a. Dynamics: Periodic flooding occurs in many stands of this community. Similar Associations: Synonymy: • Artemisa cana / Agropyron smithii Habitat Type (Hansen et al. 1 984) = • Artemisia cana Habitat Type (Hirsch 1985) = • Sagebrush Type (Hanson and Whitman 1938) = Appendix B J • Artemisa cana / Eiytrigia smithii Plant Association (Johnston 1987) B • Artemisa cana - Symphoricarpos occidentalis / E/ytrigia smithii Plant Association (Johnston 1 987) = • Artemisa cana / Ag ropy ron smithii Habitat Type (U.S. Forest Service (USFS) 1992) = GRank & Reasons: G4 (96-02-01). High-ranked species: Comments: See Steinauer and Rolfsmeier (2000) for a description of the stands in Nebraska. Element Distribution Range: This silver or coaltown sagebrush shrubland is found in the northwestern Great Plains and Rocky Mountains of the western United States, ranging from Montana and North Dakota, south to Nebraska. Nations: US States/Provinces: MT:S4, ND:S2S3?, NE:S?, SD:SU USFS Ecoregions: 251Aa:CCC, 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 33IG:CC, M331A:CC, M332B:C?, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M334A:CC Element Sources Authors: Drake, J. F., WCS Confidence: 1 Identifier: CEGL00 1 072 References: Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Hansen et al. 1984, Hansen et al. 1991, Hansen et al. 1995, Hanson and Whitman 1938, Hirsch 1985, Johnston 1987, Nelson 1961, Steinauer and Rolfsmeier 2000, U.S. Forest Service (USFS) 1992 Appendix I III.B.3.N.b. Intermittently flooded extremely xeromorphic deciduous subdesert shrubland III.B.3.N.b.3. SARCOBATUS VERMICULATUS INTERMITTENTLY FLOODED SHRUBLAND ALLIANCE Black Greasewood Intermittently Flooded Shrubland Alliance Alliance Concept Summary: This widespread shrubland alliance occurs on lowland sites in plains, mountain valleys and intermountain basins throughout the arid and semi-arid western United States. Sites are generally flat, poorly drained and intermittently flooded with a shallow or perched water table often within 1 m depth such as alkali flats around play as and floodplains along stream channels. Substrates are generally shallow, calcareous, fine-textured soils derived from alluvium. Soils are alkaline and typically moderately saline. Shrublands included in this alliance are dominated or codominated by Sarcobatus vermiculatus. Other shrubby codominants include Picrothammts desertorum (= Artemisia spinescens), Artemisia tridentata. Atrip/ex confertifolia. Atrip/ex gardneri, Chrysothammts spp., or Grayia spinosa. In more saline environments, Nitrophila occidentalis and Suaeda moquinii may be present. If present, the sparse to moderate herbaceous layer is dominated by perennial grasses, such as Distich/is spicata and Pascopyrum smithii, or the perennial bunch grasses Efymus elymoides, Hordeum jubatum, Leymus cine/ens* and Aehnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides) will dominate. Perennial forbs are typically sparse and often include Grindeiia squarrosa, Iva axillaris, and Sphaeralcea coccinea. Annual grasses, especially the exotic Bromus spp., may be present to abundant. Forbs are common on disturbed sites. Weedy annual forbs may include the exotics Descurainia spp., Helianthus annuus, Halogeton g/omerattts, Lactuca serriola, and Lepidium perfoliatttm. Diagnostic of this alliance is the Sarcobatus vermicu/attis-dom'mnied shrub layer in a shrubland that has a relatively shallow water table and may be flooded intermittently during the growing season. Environment: Shrublands included in this alliance occur on lowland sites in plains, mountain valleys and intermountain basins throughout the arid and semi-arid western United States. Elevations range from 100-2400 m. Summers are hot. Winters are generally cold, but are mild in subtropical regions. Precipitation varies with geography but is generally low and infrequent. Sites are generally flat, poorly drained and intermittently flooded with a shallow or perched water table often within 1 m depth (West 1983b). Substrates are generally shallow, calcareous, fine-textured soils (clays to silt-loams), derived from alluvium. Soils are alkaline and typically moderately saline (West 1983b). Adjacent upland vegetation depends on geography. In the Great Plains, it is likely shortgrass or midgrass prairie. In the Great Basin and central Wyoming, upland vegetation is typically Artemisia spp.- or Grayia spinosa -dominated shrublands. In the Mojave and other warm desert sites, Larrea tridentata, Grayia spinosa, or Atrip/ex spp. dominate the upland sites. In the California Central Valley adjacent upland vegetation is dominated by Atriplex spp. with annual grasses. Lowland vegetation is typically sparser stands of Sarcobatus vermiculatus or stands of species more tolerant of saline soils or poor soil aeration such as Distichlis spicata, A/lenroifea occidentalis or Suaeda moquinii (Franklin and Dyrness 1973, Young et al. 1986). Vegetation: This widespread alliance includes shrublands from alkali flats around playas and floodplains along stream channels that dissect much of the arid and semi-arid western U.S. Stands have a moderately dense to dense woody layer (20- 60% cover) dominated or codominated by the deciduous, facultative halophytic shrub Sarcobatus vermiculatus. Other shrubby codominants include Picrothamnus desertorum (= Artemisia spinescens), Artemisia tridentata, Atriplex confertifolia. Atrip/ex gardneri, Chrysothammts spp. or Grayia spinosa. In more saline environments, Nitrophila occidentalis and Suaeda moquinii may be present. Herbaceous layers range from absent to a moderately dense canopy of medium-tall to short bunch grasses or sod grasses (0-25% cover). If the herbaceous layer is present, perennial grasses such as the strongly rhizomatous Distichlis spicata and Pascopyrum smithii, or the perennial bunch grasses E/ymus elymoides, Hordeum jubatum, Leymus cineretts, and Aehnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides) will dominate. Perennial forbs are typically sparse and often include Grindeiia squarrosa, Iva axillaris, and Sphaeralcea coccinea. Annual grasses, especially the exotic Bromus japonicus, Bromus rubens, and Bromus teetotum, may be present to abundant. Forbs are common on disturbed weedy sites. Weedy annual forbs may include the exotics Descurainia spp., Helianthus annuus, Halogeton glomeratus, Lactuca serriola, and Lepidium perfoliatum. Dynamics: Sarcobatus vermiculatus, like many facultative halophytes, is tolerant of alkaline and saline soil conditions that allow the species to occur in sites with less interspecific competition (Ungar et al. 1969, Branson et al. 1976). The shrub also occurs on extremely arid non-saline sites. Sarcobatus vermiculatus is often found on sites with high water tables that are intermittently flooded. Hansen et al. (1995) reported that it can tolerate saturated soil conditions for up to 40 days. Sarcobatus Appendix B D vermiculatus -dominated vegetation can occur as a narrow band along a channel, or in a mosaic of communities where composition and density of the shrub and understory species vary with depth to water table, salinity and alkalinity, soil texture, and past land use or disturbance. Hanson (1929) described stands in south-central Colorado and found that pure stands of Sarcobotus vermiculatus and Distichlis spicata are more common on strongly saline/alkaline sites with fine- textured soil and shallow water tables, whereas stands with mixed shrubs such as Chrysothamnus or Artemisia are more common on drier, coarser textured, low-alkaline sites. Sporobolus airoides is found on dry, strongly alkaline sites, and Pascopyrum smithii is most common on less alkaline, moist, sites in low lying areas. Sarcobatus vermicttlatiis is not ordinarily browsed, but Daubenmire (1970) found that under heavy stocking rates, the shrubs will develop a compact canopy. Hansen et al. (1995) also reported browsing damage with heavy spring and summer grazing, but noted that Sarcobatus vermiculatus is moderately poisonous to livestock especially in the fall, and supplemental feed is recommended to avoid livestock loss. Hanson (1929) states that Sarcobatus vermiculatus can form an important part of winter forage for sheep. Fire will topkill Sarcobatus vermiculatus^ but the shrub will promptly resprout from the root crown (Daubenmire 1970). NRCS range sites for the eastern plains of Colorado do not describe this alliance on good condition sites. Several range sites (Salt flat #33, Saline overflow #37) list Sarcobatus vermiculatus as present in low abundance in good condition stands but describe it as increasing with overgrazing. The NRCS range sites also describe Bouteloua gracilis increasing with overgrazing. Stands dominated by Sarcobatus vermiculatus with an understory dominated by Bouteloua gracilis been observed in eastern Colorado (S. Kettler pers. obs.). Alliance Distribution Range: Shrublands included in this alliance occur in floodplains along water courses and around pluvial lakes and playas throughout much of the arid and semi-arid western U.S. Nations: US States/Provinces: CA CO ID MT NM NV OR TX? UT WA WY USFS Ecoregions: 313B:CC, 331D:CC, 33IG:CC, 341A:CC, 341E:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC, 342I:CC, M261G:CC, M3I3A:CC, M331B:??, M332E:CC, M332G:CC, M341:C Alliance Sources Authors: K. SCHULZ, JT, WCS Identifier: A. 1046 References: Barbour and Major 1977, Blackburn et al. 1969, Blackburn et al. 1969c, Blackburn et al. 1969d, Blackburn et al. 1971, Branson and Owen 1970, Branson et al. 1976, Brotherson et al. 1986, Brown 1982, Bundy et al. 1996, Chappell et al. 1997, Copeland 1979, Copeland and Greene 1982, Dastrup 1963, Daubenmire 1970, DeVelice and Lesica 1993, DeVelice et al. 1991, DeVelice et al. 1995, Dick-Peddie 1993, Fenemore 1970, Francis 1986, Franklin and Dyrness 1973, Graham 1937, Hamner 1964, Hansen et al. 1995, Hanson 1929, Holland 1986, Johnston 1987, Lesica and DeVelice 1992, Medicine Bow Mine Application n.d., Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Sweetwater Uranium Project 1978, Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Tweit and Houston 1980, Ungar et al. 1969, West 1983b, Young et al. 1986 Sarcobatus vermiculatus Shrubland Black Greasewood Shrubland Element Concept Summary: Community description in preparation Environment: Vegetation: Dynamics: Similar Associations: Synonymy: GRank & Reasons: G5 (94-02-23). High-ranked species: Comments: Stands included in this association are often affected by livestock grazing. Element Distribution Range: Appendix B Nations: US States/Provinces: CA:S3?, NV:S?, UT:S5 USFS Ecoregions: 34l:C, 342B:CC Elem ent So u rces Authors: WCS Confidence: 2 Identifier: CEGLOO 1357 References: Brotherson et al. 1986, Dastrup 1963, Graham 1937, Young et al. 1986 Appendix I \ .A.5.N.C. Medium-tall sod temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N.C.29. HESPEROSTIPA COMATA - BOUTELOUA GRACILIS HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE Needle-and-Thread - Blue Grama Herbaceous Alliance Alliance Concept Summary: This alliance is widespread across upland sites in the northern Great Plains. Its communities tend to be the climax communities on fertile dry-mesic sites across much of its range. It is dominated by mid and short grass species; woody species do not regularly achieve prominence. Few of the species exceed 1 m while many, including Boute/oua gracilis* do not exceed 50 cm. The most abundant species are Hesperostipa comata (= Stipo comata) and Boitteloua gracilis. On more mesic sites Hesperostipa comata is predominant, while on areas that are drier or subject to light grazing Boitteloua gracilis takes precedence. Other graminoid species that are commonly found in communities of this alliance are Aristida purpurea var. longiseta (= Aristida longiseta), Carex duriuscula (= Carex eleocharis), Carex filifolia, Koeleria macrantha, Nassella viridula, and Pascopyrum smithii. Sites in the southern half of the range of this alliance may have significant amounts of Boute/oua curtipendula. Forbs are common but not usually abundant. Forb species that are regularly found are Artemisia frigida, Gaura coccinea, Gutierrezia sarothrae (= Gutierrezia diversifolia), Liatris punctata, Sphaera/cea coccinea (= Ma/vastrum coccineum). Phlox hoodii, and Sphaeralcea coccinea. The clubmoss Selaginella densa is present in many stands in this alliance. Scattered shrubs are sometimes present. These include Primus virginiana, Rhus aromatica, and Symphoricarpos occidenta/is. In the western and southwestern portions of its range, Cercocarpus montanus may be found where this alliance occurs on slopes. Communities in this alliance are found on flat to moderately steep topography. The soils are sandy loam, loam, or sometimes clay loam. They are often well-developed and derived from either glacial deposits or sometimes limestone or sandstone (Hanson and Whitman 1938, Coupland 1950, Hanson 1955). Environment: Grasslands included in this alliance are common in the west-central and northwestern Great Plains. Elevations range from 600-2350 m. Climate is temperate, continental and semi-arid to subhumid. Mean annual precipitation ranges from 25-50 cm. The year-to-year variation is great, in both total annual precipitation and the proportion of precipitation occurring in the winter and spring versus summer. Stands typically occur on upland sites in rolling plains, breaks, foothills, plateaus, xeric montane parklands and in smaller forest openings in mountains. Sites are flat to moderately steep slopes on any aspect. Soils are shallow to moderately deep, non-saline, often calcareous and alkaline, with sandy loam, loam or sometimes clay loam texture. Mountain substrates are typically coarser colluvial soils. Parent materials often include limestone, sandstone, or shale with glacial deposits in the northern Great Plains, and colluvium derived from granite, gneiss schist in the mountains. Adjacent stands in the plains are often grasslands dominated by Pascopyrum smithii in mesic bottomlands and Boitteloua gracilis in the xeric plains and Festuca idahoensis in the mountains, shrublands dominated by Artemisia tridentata, Ribes spp. or Rhus tri/obata, and woodlands dominated by Pinus edit/is, Pinus flexilis, Pinus ponderosa or Jimiperus spp. Vegetation: These grasslands are widespread across upland sites in the northern Great Plains. Communities tend to be the late serai communities on fertile dry-mesic sites across much of its range (Tolstead 1941, Hansen et al. 1984). It is dominated by mid- and shortgrass species; woody species do not regularly achieve prominence. Few of the species exceed I m while many, including Boitteloua gracilis, do not exceed 50 cm. The most abundant species are Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata) and Boitteloua gracilis. On more mesic sites Hesperostipa comata is predominant, while on areas that are drier or subject to light grazing Boitteloua gracilis takes precedence. Other graminoid species that are commonly found in communities of this alliance are Aristida purpurea var. longiseta (= Aristida longiseta), Carex duriuscula (= Carex eleocharis), Carex filifolia, Carex inops ssp. heliophila, Koeleria macrantha, Nassella viridula, Pascopyrum smithii or Poa secunda. Sites in the southern half of the range of this alliance may have significant amounts of Boute/oua curtipendula. Forbs are common but not usually abundant (<10% cover). Forb species that are regularly found are Antennaria parvifolia, Artemisia frigida, Allium textile, Eriogonum umbellatum, Gaura coccinea, Heterotheca villosa, Liatris punctata, Sphaeralcea coccinea (= Ma/vastrum coccineum), Phlox hooclii, Packera fencUeri (= Seneciofendleri), and Sphaeralcea coccinea. The clubmoss Selaginella densa is present in many stands in this alliance (Coupland 1950, DeVelice and Lesica 1995, Hansen et al. 1984). Scattered shrubs and dwarf-shrubs are sometimes present. These may include Artemisia frigida, Gutierrezia spp.. Appendix B o Krascheninnikovia lanata. Primus virginiana, Rhus trilobata, Rosa spp., and Symphohcarpos occidentalis. In the western and southwestern portions of its range, Cercocarpus montanus may be found where this alliance occurs on slopes (Hanson 1955). Dynamics: These mixed grasslands occur in the subhumid/semi-arid steppes in the western Great Plains where high variability of precipitation, both seasonally and yearly allows both short and mid grasses to co-exist (Coupland 1 992a). Hesperostipa comata will decline with overgrazing, leaving the more grazing-tolerant Bouteloua gracilis to dominate (Laurenroth et al. 1994, Smoliak 1965, Smoliak et al. 1972). Fire also can change the species composition of these grasslands. Burning generally kills or severely damages Hesperostipa comata plants. After fire, regeneration of this non-rhizomatous bunchgrass is through seed and may take many years to reach prefire densities (FEIS 1998). Burning Bouteloua gracilis during the growing season will topkill the plant, but the rhizomes are usually unharmed and quickly regrow (FEIS 1998). Bouteloua gracilis is usually unharmed by fires in years with above normal winter and spring precipitation (soil moisture prevents lethal soil temperatures), but it can be severely damaged by fires that occur during drought years (FEIS 1998). Exotic species such as Taraxacum officinale, Medicago sativa, Melilotus officinalis or Salsola kali are present in some stands. Alliance Distribution Range: This alliance is found in the western Great Plains, from western Kansas to North Dakota, west into Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. The alliance also extends north into Canada in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and probably Alberta. Nations: CAUS States/Provinces: AB CO KS MB MT ND NE SD SK WY USFS Ecoregions: 251Ab:CCC, 251Ba:CCC, 331C:CC, 331D:CC, 33IE:C?, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 33IH:CC, 331I:CC, 332C:CC, M331A:CC, M33IH:CC, M331I:CC, M332B:CC, M332C:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC Alliance Sources Authors: MCS, MOD. M.S. REID, MCS Identifier: A. 1234 References: Aldous and Shantz 1924, Badaracco 1971, Bear Creek Uranium Mine Application n.d., Clements and Goldsmith 1924, Comer et al. 1999, Cooper et al. 1995, Cotter-Ferguson Project n.d., Coupland 1950, Coupland 1992a, Davis 1959, DeVelice et al. 1995, Faber-Langendoen et al. 1996, Fire Effects Information System (FEIS) 1998, Hansen 1985, Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Hansen et al. 1984, Hanson 1955, Hanson 1957, Hanson and Dahl 1956, Hanson and Whitman 1938, Hardy Ranch Mine Application n.d., Hess 1981, Hubbard 1950, Johnston 1987, Kuchler 1964, Laurenroth et al. 1994, Livingston 1947, Moir 1969, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Ramaley 1916, Smoliak 1965, Smoliak et al. 1972, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Stearns-Roger Inc. 1978, Stoecker-Keammerer Consultants n.d. (a), Tolstead 1941, Trammell and Trammell 1977, Vestal 1 9 1 4, Weaver and Albertson 1956 HESPEROSTIPA COMATA -BOUTELOUA GRACILIS- CAREX FILIFOLIA HERB ACEOUS VEGETATION Needle-and-Thread - Blue Grama - Thrcadleaf Sedge Herbaceous Vegetation Neeclle-and-Thread - Blue Grama Mixedgrass Prairie Element Concept Summary: This needlegrass - grama grass prairie community is common in the northern and central Great Plains of the United States. Stands occur on flat to rolling topography with deep (40-100 cm), sandy loam to loam, coarser-textured soils. They are typically associated with uplands, though they may also occur lower in the landscape, such as coulee and draw bottoms, if soils are sufficiently coarse (usually sandstone-derived). The type is found at elevations ranging from 600-1700 m (2000-5500 feet); average annual precipitation associated with these elevation param ranges from slightly less than 25 cm to over 50 cm (10-20 inches). The vegetation is dominated by moderate to moderately dense medium-tall grasses. Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata) is the tallest of the dominant species, sending seed heads to a maximum height of approximately 1 m. The rhizomatous graminoids Bouteloua gracilis and Carexfilifb/ia, the other two dominant/codominant species, do not usually exceed 0.5 m. Calamovilfa longifolia is often found with high cover values on sandier soils, and Koeleria macrantha cover increases on degraded sites. There are regionalized expressions of variability with Carex inops ssp. heliophila Appendix B y surpassing Carex fi/ifo/ia in Colorado and Calamagrostis montanensis being at least as important as the diagnostic species in north-central Montana. Pascopyrum smithii is consistently present. For woody species, subshrub forms (Artemisia frigida, Gutierrezio sarothrae, Rosa arkansana) have the highest cover and constancy, but their total cover does not sum to more than 5%, except on overgrazed sites. Cover values for forbs are low (the exception being Selaginella densa). Geographic setting influences forb composition to some degree, with Sphaerafcea coccinea. Phlox hoodii, Heterotheea vil/osa, Gaura coccinea, and Liatris punctata common in the northern areas, and Lygodesmia juncea, Opuntia polyacantha, Artemisia dracunatlus, and Ratibida cohtmnifera seeming to increase to the eastern and southern areas. Environment: Stands occur on flat to rolling topography with deep (40-100 cm) sandy loam to loam soils. They are typically associated with uplands, though they may also occur lower in the landscape, such as coulee and draw bottoms, if soils are sufficiently coarse (usually sandstone derived). Even though it is a major association in the Northern Plains, it does not occur in areas dominated exclusively by shale and mudstone parent materials, from which heavy soils are derived. This type is found at elevations ranging from 600 to 1700 m (2000-5500 feet); average annual precipitation associated with these elevation parameters ranges from slightly less than 25 cm to over 50 cm (10 to 20 inches). Vegetation: The vegetation is dominated by moderately dense graminoids that are usually between 0.5 and 1 m tall. For example, on 1 9 stands in west-central Montana the cover by the different strata was as follows: shrubs 6%, graminoids 67%, forbs 11%, bryophytes 14%, litter 55%, rock 4%, bare soil 9% (Mueggler and Stewart 1978). Thilenius et al. (1995) found that the average cover on 14 stands in eastern Wyoming was 42%. Hesperostipa eomata (= Stipa comata) is the tallest of the dominant species, sending seed heads to a maximum height of approximately 1 m. The rhizomatous graminoids Boutelotia gracilis and Carex filifolia, the other twodominant/codominant species, do not usually exceed 0.5 m. Calamovilfa longifolia is often found with high cover values on sandier soils and Koeleria macrantha cover increases on degraded sites. There are regionalized expressions of variability with Carex inops ssp. he/iophi/a surpassing Carex filifolia in Colorado and Calamagrostis montanensis being at least as important as the diagnostic species in north-central Montana. Pascopyrum smithii is consistently present. For woody species, subshrub forms (Artemisia frigida, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Rosa arkansana) have the highest cover and constancy but their total cover does exceed more than 5%, except on overgrazed sites. Cover values for forbs are low throughout the range of the type (the exception being Selaginella densa). Geographic setting does influence forb composition to some degree. Sphaeralcea coccinea. Phlox h(X)dii, Heterotheea vil/osa, Gaura coccinea, and Liatris punctata, have high constancy values in northern areas, whereas in the eastern and southern portions of the range Lygodesmia juncea, Opuntia polyacantha, Artemisia dracuncu/us and Ratibida cohtmnifera seems to be more constant. Dynamics: Vast (singly and in the aggregate) prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) "towns" once developed on the favorable substrates of this type and exploited its vegetation. Prairie dog populations have undergone a precipitous decline since settlement, so much of this type could be in various states of secondary succession, returning from a somewhat denuded state and altered composition created by the prairie dogs (and attendant bison that found nutritious forage here). Fire, both aboriginal- and lightening-caused, was a regular part of this landscape. Fire-return intervals have been considerably lengthened since settlement by European-Americans. This association and Pascopyrum smithii - Bouteloua gracilis - Carex filifolia Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001579) could be considered the most common plant associations in the Northern Great Plains (Martin et al. 1998). These two associations, cited by many authors as the climatic climax communities for this region, are manifested by matrix or large patch occurrences frequently found dominating whole landscapes. The Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata) defined community is more associated with uplands and the Pascopyrum smithii defined type characterizes sites with higher moisture status, generally occurring at lower positions in the landscape. Similar Associations: ♦ Pascopyrum smithii - Hesperostipa comata Central Mixedgrass Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL002034) ♦ Bouteloua gracilis - Buchloe dactyloides Xeric Soil Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL002270)~On degraded sites, or on intermediate habitats, this type can be confused with CEGL002037. Synonymy: ♦ Stipa comata - Carex fi/ifo/ia Habitat Type (Hansen et al. 1 984) = ♦ Gramagrass - Needlegrass - Sedge (Hanson and Whitman 1938) = . Stipa-Boutleoua (Hubbard 1950) = . Bouteloua-Stipa (Hubbard 1950) = ♦ Stipa comata / Bouteloua gracilis Plant Association (Johnston 1987) B ♦ Stipa comata / Carex filifolia Plant Association (Johnston 1987) = ♦ Association Rumicetum venosi, subassoc. Boutelouetsum (Looman 1980) = . Mixed prairie (Tolstead 1941) B Appendix B 1 GRank & Reasons: G5 (99-02-25). This is an exceedingly common type, manifesting any number of permutations, some of which are related to disturbance and some of which appear to be related to the expected geographic distinctions in such a broadly distributed type. The only reason to consider it a G4 is that it has received, and continues to receive, significant grazing pressure which, combined with the surge in alien weed populations, pose a significant threat to its quality. High-ranked species: Comments: Carex filifolia is lacking or highly reduced in importance southward. Southern stands were once classified separately (CEGL001699), and further review of their characteristics compared to more northern stands is needed. Weaver and Albertson ( 1 956) also remark on the fact that low sedges are present as far south as Texas but are important only north of Colorado. However, a phase of the Stipa comata - Bouteloua gracilis type of Mueggler and Stewart (1 980) in western Montana is apparently quite similar to communities of the southern and southeastern portions or the Northern Great Plains, and both lack Carex filifolia. There are a welter of named community types, mostly serai representations of grazing or fire impacts, that vary by having one or another of the defining species (or even other graminoids, e.g., Carex inops ssp. he/iophila) dominant. This assemblage of types is also defined by having relatively low cover of both Pascopyrum smithii and Elymus lanceolatus (= Agropyron dasystachyum). To accommodate these permutations within the concept of the type (as lesser-ranked occurrences) or to recognize them as independent vegetation types recognized by existing vegetation composition is one question. Another is, what cover value or degree of dominance of Pascopyrum smithii or Elymus lanceolatus will serve to establish the distinction between Pascopyrum smithii - Stipa comata - Carex filifolia (and allied Pascopyrum $//hY/i/7- "dominated" communities) from the community under consideration. Element Distribution Range: This needlegrass - grama grass prairie community is common in the northern and central Great Plains of the United States and Canada, ranging from Manitoba west to Alberta, south to Kansas and possibly Colorado. Nations: CAUS States/Provinces: AB:S?, CO?, KS:S?, MB:S3, MT:S?, ND:S3?, NE:S?, SD:S?, SK:S?, WY:S3 USFS Ecoregions: 251Ab:CCC, 251Ba:CCC, 331C:CC, 331E:C?, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 331H:CC, 332C:CC, M334A:CC Element Sources Authors: J.Drake, MCS Confidence: I Identifier: CEGL002037 References: Hansen et al. 1984, Hanson and Whitman 1938, Hubbard 1950, Johnston 1987, Looman 1980, Mueggler and Stewart 1978, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Steinauer and Rolfsmeier 2000, Thilenius et al. 1995, Tolstead 1941, Tolstead 1942, Weaver and Albertson 1956 Appendix B 11 V.A.5.N.C.27. PASCOPYRUM SMITHII HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE Western Wheatgrass Herbaceous Alliance Alliance Concept Summary: This alliance is common and widespread in the Great Plains, especially the northern portions, and parts of the Great Basin. The communities in it range from dry or dry-mesic to wet-mesic. Mid grasses are the dominant vegetation in most communities, although short grasses and sedges can be codominant. The vegetation tends to be denser where the mid grasses are predominant and more open where shorter graminoids are abundant. The mid grasses grow to 0.5-1 .0 m on favorable sites, while the short grasses and sedges are less than 0.5 m tall. The most abundant midgrass is Pascopyrum smithii. Common associates include Hesperostipa eomata (= Stipa comata), Nassella viridula, Koeleria macrantha, Schizochyrium scoparium, Hesperostipa sparteo (= Stipa spartea), and Poa spp. In the drier communities of this alliance Bouteloua gracilis is the most common shortgrass. Other short graminoids typically found in the drier communities include Carex inops ssp. heliophi/a, Carex duriitscula (= Carex eleocharis), Carex filifblia, and Bouteloua curtipendula (in the northern portion of this alliance's range), Aristida purpurea, and Buchloe dactyloides (in the southern half of this alliance's range). In the wetter communities within this alliance, Distichlis spicata, Hordeum jubatum, Elymus trachycau/tts, and Iva annua are common. Forbs and shrubs are generally minor components of communities within this alliance. If shrubs are present they are rarely taller than 1 m. Some forbs that are usually scattered about are Gaura coccinea, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Amorpha canescens. Astragalus spp., and Tragopogon dubius. Shrubs include Symphoricarpos occidentalis, Artemisia cana, Artemisia frigida, and Opuntia spp. Communities within this alliance occur on several different soil types. The soil is most often clay or clay loam, however, it can be loam or sandy loam. In the east and central part of this alliance's range, these communities can be found on flat or rolling uplands, hillslopes, or along streams or depressions. In the western part of this alliance's range, its communities are found where local conditions are wetter than the average. This includes such areas as the base of slopes or along rivers or streams. Environment: Grasslands included in this alliance occur across the Great Plains, on several different soil types (Hanson and Whitman 1938, Johnston 1987, USFS 1992). The soil is most often clay or clay loam, however it can be loam or sandy loam. In the eastern and central part of this alliance's range, these communities can be found on flat or rolling uplands, hillslopes, or along streams or depressions. In the western part of this alliance's range, communities are found where local conditions are wetter than the average. This includes such areas as the base of slopes or along rivers or streams (Weaver and Albertson 1956, Jones 1992). Vegetation: This alliance is common and widespread in the Great Plains, especially the northern portions, and parts of the Great Basin. These communities range from dry or dry-mesic to wet-mesic. Mid grasses are the dominant vegetation in most communities, although short grasses and sedges can be codominant. The vegetation tends to be denser where the mid grasses are predominant and more open where shorter graminoids are abundant (e.g., Hansen and Hoffman 1988, USFS 1992). The mid grasses grow to 0.5-1.0 m on favorable sites, while the short grasses and sedges are less than 0.5 m tall (Weaver and Albertson 1956). The most abundant midgrass is Pascopyrum smithii. Common associates include Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Elymus trachycaulus, Nassella viridula, Koeleria macrantha, Schizochyrium scoparium, Hesperostipa spartea (= Stipa spartea)* and Poa spp. In the drier communities of this alliance Bouteloua gracilis is the most common shortgrass. Other short graminoids typically found in the drier communities include Carex inops ssp. heliophila, Carex duriitscula (= Carex eleocharis), Carex filifolia, and Bouteloua curtipendula (in the northern portion of this alliance's range), Aristida purpurea and Buchloe dactyloides (in the southern half of this alliance's range). In the wetter communities within this alliance Distichlis spicata, Hordeum jubatum, Elymus trachycaulus* and Iva annua are common. Forbs and shrubs are generally minor components of communities within this alliance. If shrubs are present they are rarely taller than 1 m. Some forbs that are usually scattered about are Gaura coccinea, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Amorpha canescens. Astragalus spp., and Tragopogon dubius. Shrubs include Symphoricarpos occidentalis, Artemisia cana, Artemisia frigida* and Opuntia spp. Dynamics: Pascopyrum smithii is rhizomatous and is tolerant of moderate grazing. If severely over -grazed, Pascopyrum smithii will decline and may be replaced by less desirable warm season grasses and exotic species such as Poa pratensis. Alliance Distribution Range: Grasslands included in this alliance are found in the western Great Plains, from New Mexico north into Colorado, Wyoming and Montana, as well as Kansas north into Saskatchewan and Manitoba. It is also found in scattered locations in Idaho and Utah, and possibly Alberta, Canada. Nations: CA US States/Provinces: AB CO ID KS MB MT ND NE NM SD SK UT WY Appendix B 12 USFS Ecoregions: 251Aa:CCC, 3I5A:CC, 331D:CC, 331E:CC, 331F:CC, 33IG:CC, 331H:CC, 331I:CC, 332:C, 342F:CC, M3I3B:CC, M331A:CC, M331F:CC, M332D:C?, M332E:CC Alliance Sources Authors: MCS, MOD. M.S. REID, MOD., MCS Identifier: A. 1232 References: Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Bear Creek Uranium Mine Application n.d., Boutton et al. 1980, Branson et al. 1961, Branson et al. 1964, Branson et al. 1965, Bujakiewicz 1975, Bunin 1985, Cacek 1973, Christensen and Welsh 1963, Costello 1944, Culwell and Scow 1982, DeVelice et al. 1991, Dick-Peddie 1986, Donart et al. 1978a, Faber- Langendoen et al. 1996, Hadley and Branson 1965, Hansen 1985, Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Hansen et al. 1984, Hansen et al. 1991, Hanson 1957, Hanson and Ball 1928, Hanson and Dahl 1956, Hanson and Whitman 1938, Hanson et al. 1931, Hyder et al. 1966, Johnston 1987, Jones 1992, Kahler 1973, Keammerer and Stoecker 1975, Marr and Buckner 1974, Moir 1969, Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Mutel 1976, Ramaley 1916, Ramaley 1919, Ramaley 1927, Ramaiey 1942, Rogers 1950a, Shanks 1977, Shantz 1906, Shantz 191 1, Shantz 1923, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Stoecker-Ke am merer Consultants n.d.(b), U.S. Forest Service (USFS) 1992, Vestal 1913, Vestal 1914, Vestal 1919, Weaver and Albertson 1956, Western Resources Development Corporation n.d. (a), Wooten 1980. Pascopyrum smithii Herbaceous Vegetation Western Wheatgrass Herbaceous Vegetation Western Wheatgrass Mixedgrass Prairie Element Concept Summary: This midgrass prairie type is found in the northern and western Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and western basins of the United States and possibly Canada. Stands occur on level to gently sloping terrain. They are sometimes found on alluvial fans. The soils are clay, clay loam, and silt loam. The dominant mixedgrass species grow to approximately 1 m. Pascopyrum smithii may have as much as 50% coverage. Other grasses that co-occur and may achieve local dominance are Koeleria macrantha and Poa spp. Many other species common in midgrass prairies are also found in this community. These include Artemisia ludoviciana, Bouteioiia gracilis, Nassella viridula, and Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata). This community is similar to several others that have significant amounts of Pascopyrum smithii. Further work needs to be done to better define the diagnostic characteristics of this community. Environment: This community occurs on flat to gently sloping topography. Soils are clay, clay loam, and silt loam. It is sometimes found on alluvial fans of small streams. The soils are deep (40-100 cm) and well-developed. Vegetation: This is a midgrass community. Shrubs are rare. The dominant species grow to approximately 1 m. Pascopyrum smithii is the only constant dominant species and may have 50% cover. Other species such as Koeleria macrantha and Poa spp. may be locally abundant. Many other species common in midgrass prairies are also found in this community. These include Artemisia ludovieiana, Bouteloua gracilis, Nassella viridu/a, and Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata). Dynamics: Similar Associations: ♦ Pascopyrum smithii - Nassella viridula Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001583) Synonymy: . Wheatgrass (Aldous and Shantz 1924) = ♦ Agropyron smithii Great Basin Grassland (Baker and Kennedy 1 985) = GRank & Reasons: G3G5Q (96-02-01). High-ranked species: Comments: This community is similar to several others that are dominated or codominated by Pascopyrum smithii. As currently defined, it represents a western Great Plains and foothills version of the western wheatgrass types in the central Great Plains. Further work needs to be done to refine the differences in composition and environmental characteristics. See recent descriptions by Thilenius et al. (1995, Pascopyrum smithii sodgrass steppe, a more playa-like wheatgrass type) and by Steinauer and Rolfsmeier (2000). In Nebraska, Steinauer and Rolfsmeier (2000) suggest that their stands may resemble Pascopyrum smithii - Nassella viridula Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001583). Appendix B 13 Element Distribution Range: This midgrass prairie type is found in the northern and western Great Plains, Rocky Mountains and western basins of the United States and possibly Canada, ranging from North Dakota and possibly Saskatchewan, south to Nebraska and Colorado, west to Utah, and north to Idaho. Nations: CA US States/Provinces: CO:Sl?, ID:S1Q, MT:S4, NE:S?, SD:S?, SK:S?, UT:S3S5, WY:S4Q USFS Ecoregions: 33ID:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 331H:CC, 331LCC, 342F:CC, M331A:CC, M332E:CC Element Sources Authors: Drake, J. F., WCS Confidence: 3 Identifier: CEGLOO J 577 References: Aldous and Shantz 1924, Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Bunin 1985, Christensen and Welsh 1963, Godfread 1994, Hansen et al. 1991, Marr and Buckner 1974, Ramaley 1916, Ramaley 1919, Ramaley 1942, Shanks 1977, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Steinauer and Rolfsmeier 2000, Thilenius et al. 1995 Appendix B 1 4 V.A.5.N.J. Temporarily flooded temperate or subpolar grassland V.A.5.N.J.22. HORDEUM JUBATUM TEMPORARILY FLOODED HERBACEOUS ALLIANCE Foxtail Barley Temporarily Flooded Herbaceous Alliance Alliance Concept Summary: This alliance is found in the northern and western Great Plains and is dominated by short and medium-tall graminoids with a total vegetation cover of nearly 100%. Shrubs are often absent, and forbs are present but not usually abundant. Hordeum jubatum is the dominant species. Other common species include Elymus trachycaulus, Distichlis spicata, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa arida, Poa compressa, Rumex crispus, and Sonchus arvensis. Stands are located in lowlands with moderately to strongly saline soils. The topography is flat and the soils are often briefly flooded or saturated in the spring. Environment: Stands included in this alliance have been reported from lowlands across the northern Great Plains. The climate is semi-arid continental with mean annual precipitation of 25-48 cm. Elevation ranges from 750-1250 m. The topography is flat and the soils are often briefly flooded or saturated in the spring (Redmann 1972). It is also found in the drawdown zone of ponds with moderately saline water (Hansen et al. 1 995). Soils are clay loam to clay and poor to very poorly drained. Soil salinity is somewhat variable. Wilson (1967) found Hordeum jubatum grew best in non-saline soils in laboratory conditions. In the field with competition, this grass grew best in moderately saline conditions (up to 0.7% salinity). The soil surface may be covered with white salt crusts with moderately to strongly saline soils (Barnes 1978, Wilson 1967, Ungar 1969, Hansen et al. 1995). Adjacent wetter sites are often open water, while surrounding uplands can be dominated by a variety of grasslands or shrublands. Vegetation: Grasslands included in this alliance are found in lowland sites in the northern and western Great Plains. The vegetation is a sparse to dense layer of short and medium-tall graminoids dominated by the cool-season, short-lived, perennial bunchgrass Hordeum jubatum. It often occurs in nearly pure stands. Ungar (1969) described one stand that was dominated by Hordeum jubatum in the spring and early summer, then became dominated by Iva annua in the late summer. Total vegetation cover is usually high, but can range from 20% to nearly 100% (Barnes 1978, Hansen et al. 1995). Shrubs are often absent and forbs are present, but not usually abundant. Species diversity is typically low. Other species include Chenopodium spp., Distichlis spicata, Eleocharis spp., Elymus trachycaulus, Iva annua, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa arida, Poa compressa, Puccine/lia nuttalliana, Rumex crispus, Salicornia rubra, and Schoenop/ectus maritimus (= Scirpus paludosus). Dynamics: Hordeum jubatum is a common, short-lived pioneer species of mesic prairie habitats where permanent grass cover has been destroyed (Dodd and Coupland 1966). It may represent a serai stage that will be taken over by more permanent grasses (Hansen et al. 1 995). It is moderately salt-tolerant and can densely colonize areas disturbed by flooding along drainages, around playas and more permanent ponds. Hordeum jubatum is moderately tolerant of salinity. Often on playas, these grasslands occupy a zone of intermediate salinity between halophytic vegetation dominated by Distichlis spicata, Puccinellia nuttalliana, or Salicornia rubra, and non-saline, mesic prairie vegetation dominated by Pascopyrum smithii, Poa spp. or Elymus spp. Total vegetation cover (density and height), species composition and soil salinity depend on the amount and timing of precipitation and flooding. Growth-inhibiting salt concentrations are diluted when the soil is saturated, allowing the growth of less salt-tolerant species and more robust growth (Ungar 1967). Alliance Distribution Range: This alliance is found in the northern and western Great Plains. It ranges from Colorado to Montana and the Dakotas, then into southern Saskatchewan in Canada. It is likely that it occurs elsewhere in western North America, but is little reported in the literature. Nations: CAUS States/Provinces: CO MT ND SD? SK USFS Ecoregions: 251 Aa:CCC, 331D:CC, 331E:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 332:?, M332C:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC Alliance Sources Authors: K. SCHULZ, WCS Identifier: A. 1358 Appendix B 15 References: Baker 1984a, Barnes and Tieszen 1978, Bunin 1985, Dodd and Coupland 1966, Faber-Langendoen et al. 1996, Hansen et al. 1988, Hansen et al. 1991, Hansen et al. 1995, Redmann 1972, Reid 1974, Ungar 1967, Ungar et al. 1969, Vestal 1914 HORDEUM JUBATUM HERBACEOUS VEGETATION Foxtail Barley Herbaceous Vegetation Foxtail Barley Meadow Element Concept Summary: This foxtail barley community type is found in the northern and central Great Plains of the United States and Canada, in lowlands with moderately to strongly saline soils. The topography is flat and the soils are often flooded or saturated in the spring. The vegetation is dominated by short and medium tall graminoids with a total vegetation cover of nearly 100%. Shrubs are usually absent. Hordeum jubatum dominates the community. Other common species in this community are Elymus trachycaulus, Distichlis spicata, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa arida, Poa compressa, Rumex crispus, and Sonchus arvensis. Environment: Stands are located in lowlands with moderately to strongly saline soils (Barnes 1978). The topography is flat and the soils are often flooded or saturated in the spring (Redmann 1972). Vegetation: The vegetation is dominated by short and medium-tall graminoids with a total vegetation cover of nearly 100% (Barnes 1978). Shrubs are usually absent. Hordeum jubatum dominates the community. Other common species in this community are Elymus trachycaulus, Distichlis spicata, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa arida, Poa compressa, Rumex crispus, and Sonchus arvensis. 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