Example_Standards_Assessment_0002.docx

Bighorn Basin Landscape Area

United States Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management Billings Field Office Montana/Dakota District Office

Rangeland Health Evaluation Bighorn Basin Landscape Area

Title of Project Date: March 13, 2020 Table of Contents

Standards Determination for Bighorn Basin Landscape Area

STANDARDS DETERMINATION DOCUMENT

Standards and Guidelines Assessment

The Standards and Guidelines for Montana/Dakotas Standards for Public Land Health were developed by the duel state Resource Advisory Council (RAC) and approved in 1997. Standards and guidelines are likened to objectives for healthy watersheds, healthy native plant communities, and healthy rangelands. Standards are expressions of physical and biological conditions required for sustaining rangelands for multiple uses. Guidelines point to management actions related to livestock grazing for achieving the standards.

This Standards Determination Document evaluates and assesses livestock grazing management achievement of the Standards and conformance with the Guidelines for the Bighorn Basin Landscape Area in the Billings Field Office.

General Background and Geographic Information The allotment is located 40 miles East of Billings MT. A majority of the Allotment is located in Major Land Resource Area (MLRA) 58—Northern Rolling High Plains, Northern Part. This area is in the Missouri Plateau, Unglaciated section of the Great Plains Province of the Interior Plains. It is an area of old plateaus and terraces that have been eroded. Slopes generally are gently rolling to steep, and wide belts of steeply sloping badlands border a few of the larger river valleys.

The average annual precipitation is 8 to 22 inches (205 to 560 millimeters) in most of this area but is as much as 30 inches (760 millimeters) in the mountains. It fluctuates widely from year to year. Most of the rainfall occurs as frontal storms early in the growing season, in May and June. Some high-intensity, convective thunderstorms occur in July and August, and some rain falls in autumn. Precipitation in winter occurs as snow. The average annual temperature is 41 to 49 degrees F (5 to 10 degrees C). The freeze-free period averages 155 days and ranges from 115 to 190 days, decreasing in length with elevation.

This area supports grassland vegetation. Western wheatgrass, bluebunch wheatgrass, green needlegrass, and needle-and-thread are the dominant species. In the eastern part of the area, little bluestem replaces bluebunch wheatgrass as the dominant species.

Within the Bighorn Basin Landscape Area (BLA) eight allotments were evaluated as to whether they were meeting Standards and Guidelines for BLM Montana. They are:

Bridger Creek 2, Cottonwood, Cottonwood Road, Cub Creek, Deer Mountain, Hollenbeck, Weatherman, and Williams Basin Allotments. Where livestock grazing is more suitable within the allotments the primary ecological site are as follows:

Table 1. Allotment Ecological Reference Conditions Described in the Ecological Site Descriptions (ESD).

R058AC057MT

Clayey 11-14” P.Z.

Shallow 11-14” P.Z.

R058AC053MT

R058AC057MT

Clayey 11-14: P.Z.

DenseClay 11-14” P.Z.

Shallow 11-14” P.Z.

R058AC059MT

Clayey 11-14” P.Z.

Shallow Clay 11-14” P.Z.

R058AC059MT

Clayey 11-14” P.Z.

Shallow Clay 11-14” P.Z.

R058AC059MT

Clayey 11-14” P.Z.

Shallow Clay 11-14” P.Z.

Clayey R058AC041MT 11-14” P.Z. – Pseudoroegneria spicata - Nassella viridula (bluebunch wheatgrass - green needlegrass) ecological site.

This ecological site type is characterized by cold winters, hot summers, low humidity, light rainfall, and much sunshine. Extremes in temperature are typical. There are few natural barriers on the northern Great Plains and the winds move freely across the plains and account for rapid changes in temperature. Seasonal precipitation is often limiting for plant growth. Annual fluctuations in species composition and total production are typical depending on the amount and timing of rainfall. Temperatures can be very extreme in this part of Montana. Summer daytime temperatures are typically quite warm, generally averaging in the mid to upper 80º’s F for July and August. Summertime temperatures will typically reach in the 100º’s F at some point during the summer, and can reach 90º F any month between May and September. Conversely, winter temperatures can be cold, averaging in the mid-teens to mid-20º’s F for December and January. There will typically be several days of below zero temperatures each winter. It is not uncommon for temperatures to reach 30–40º F below zero, or even colder, most any winter.

Dominant species include bluebunch wheatgrass, green needlegrass, western or thickspike wheatgrass, and a diverse group of short grasses, such as Sandberg bluegrass, blue grama, and prairie junegrass. There are abundant forbs (purple and white prairie clover, prairie coneflower, dotted gayfeather) which occur in smaller percentages. Shrubs such as Wyoming big sagebrush and winterfat are common. This plant community is well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species and presence of tall, deep-rooted perennial grasses allows for drought tolerance. Plants on this site have strong, healthy root systems that allow production to increase significantly with favorable moisture conditions. Abundant plant litter is available for soil building and moisture retention. Plant litter is properly distributed with very little movement off-site and natural plant mortality is very low. This plant community provides for soil stability and a functioning hydrologic cycle.

The physical aspect of this site in the Historical Climax (HCPC) is that of a level to undulating grassland dominated by cool season grasses, with forbs and shrubs occurring in smaller percentages. Approximately 85-90% of the annual production by weight is from grasses and sedges, 1–5% is from forbs, and 5–10% is from shrubs, half-shrubs, and cacti. Canopy cover of shrubs is typically 1-5%. Trees are not significant on this site.

Shallow Clay R058AC059MT 11-14” P.Z. Artemisia frigida - Artemisia cana / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Pascopyrum smithii (fringed sagewort - silver sagebrush / bluebunch wheatgrass - western wheatgrass) This ecological site can occur on nearly level to very steep uplands. It often occurs in complex with other ecological sites, particularly in rougher terrain. This site occurs on all slopes and exposures. Slight variations in plant community composition and production can result due to aspect. The amount of exposed rock outcrop tends to increase as slopes increase. Runoff and the potential for water erosion can be important features of this site. These are clayey soils that are 10 to 20 inches deep to underlying beds of decomposed shale or nearly impervious clays. Few roots penetrate deeper than 20 inches. Available Water Holding Capacity to 20 inches is 2 to 4 inches.

This plant community is well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species and presence of tall, deep-rooted perennial grasses allows for drought tolerance. Plants on this site have strong, healthy root systems that allow production to increase significantly with favorable moisture conditions. Abundant plant litter is available for soil building and moisture retention. Plant litter is properly distributed with very little movement off-site and natural plant mortality is very low. This plant community provides for soil stability and a functioning hydrologic cycle. Dominant species include bluebunch wheatgrass, green needlegrass, plains muhly, and western or thickspike wheatgrass. Short grasses such as Sandberg bluegrass and prairie junegrass are also present. There are abundant forbs (purple and white prairie clover, prairie coneflower, dotted gayfeather) which occur in smaller percentages. Shrubs such as Nuttall’s saltbush and winterfat are common. Rocky Mountain juniper may also occur on steeper slopes.

Shallow R058AC057MT 11-14” P.Z. Pseudoroegneria spicata - Nassella viridula (bluebunch wheatgrass - green needlegrass) The soils in this ecological site can occur on shoulders and side slopes of hills, ridgetops, and escarpments. Slope aspect can be significant, and can occur on all aspects. These soils are 10 to 20 inches deep to hard rock or soft beds of weathered siltstone or sandstone. Few roots penetrate deeper than 20 inches. Surface textures are mainly silt loam, loam, sandy loam, fine sandy loam, loamy fine sand, and very fine sandy loam. Available Water Holding Capacity to 20 inches is 2 to 4 inches. This plant community is well adapted to the Northern Great Plains climatic conditions. The diversity in plant species and presence of tall, deep-rooted perennial grasses allows for drought tolerance. Plants on this site have strong, healthy root systems that allow production to increase significantly with favorable moisture conditions. Abundant plant litter is available for soil building and moisture retention. Plant litter is properly distributed with very little movement off-site and natural plant mortality is very low. This plant community provides for soil stability and a functioning hydrologic cycle.

Dominant species include bluebunch wheatgrass, green needlegrass, plains muhly, western or thickspike wheatgrass, and needle-and-thread. Short grasses and sedges such as Sandberg bluegrass, prairie junegrass, and threadleaf sedge are also present. There are abundant forbs (purple and white prairie clover, prairie coneflower, dotted gayfeather) which occur in smaller percentages. Shrubs such as Wyoming big sagebrush and skunkbush sumac are common. Rocky Mountain and creeping juniper may also occur.

Dense Clay R058AC053MT 11-14” P.Z. Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis - Artemisia frigida / Pascopyrum smithii - Nassella viridula (Wyoming big sagebrush - fringed sagewort / western wheatgrass - green needlegrass) This ecological site occurs on nearly level to strongly sloping sedimentary plains, terraces and fans. These are moderately deep to very deep non-granular clay soils that are strongly to very strongly alkaline near the surface. These soils typically are very hard to extremely hard when dry and very sticky when wet. They typically have a thin vesicular surface crust, which restricts water permeability. The subsoil is either massive, or has a very strong columnar structure. Permeability and root development are severely limited by the surface crust, hard subsoil, and alkalinity. The physical aspect of this site is that of a very sparse grassland and shrubland that is typically dominated by cool season grasses and shrubs. Approximately 80–85% of the annual production is from grasses and sedges, 1–5% from forbs, and 5–10% is from shrubs and half-shrubs. The canopy cover of shrubs is 5-10%. This plant community contains a diversity of tall and medium height, cool season grasses (western or thickspike wheatgrass, green needlegrass, and bluebunch wheatgrass), and short grasses (blue grama, Sandberg bluegrass). There are numerous forbs that occur in smaller percentages. Shrubs and half-shrubs such as Nuttall’s saltbush and winterfat are common. Wyoming big sagebrush is also often a common component of this community.

Current Livestock Management Historic and recent use has been made by cattle on the Allotments within the Bighorn Basin Landscape Area. Table 2 below describes allotment ownership Table 3 describes permitted AUMs on public lands.

Table 2. Allotment Acreages

Bridger Creek 2

Cottonwood

Cottonwood Road

Cub Creek

Deer Mountain

Hollenbeck

Weatherman

Williams Basin

Comment by Grooms, Troy -FS: Billings BLM Information

Table 3. Livestock type, season of use, % public land, # of AUMs and allotment type use for the Bowtie Allotment

Grazing Period of Use

% Public Land

Bridger Creek 2

37 Cattle

03/01 to 02/28

15%

Active

Cottonwood

Cottonwood Road

Cub Creek

Deer Mountain

Hollenbeck

Weatherman

Williams Basin

Comment by Grooms, Troy -FS: Billings BLM Information

* Suspended AUMs are AUMs that are in non-use for the purpose of resource conservation.

Part 1 Standard Conformance Review Evaluation and Determination of Rangeland Health Standards for the Bighorn Basin Landscape Area.

Standard 1 Upland Sites “Upland ecological sites are in proper functioning condition” Criteria for meeting Standard 1:

This means that soils are stable and provide for the capture, storage and safe release of water appropriate to soil type, climate and landform. The amount and distribution of ground cover (i.e., litter, live and standing dead vegetation, macrobiotic crusts, and rocks/gravel) for identified ecological site(s) or soil plant associations is appropriate for soil stability. Evidence of accelerated erosion in the form of rills and/or gullies, erosional pedestals, flow patterns, physical soil crusts/surface is minimal. Ecological processes including hydrologic cycle, nutrient cycle and energy flow are maintained and support healthy biotic populations. Plants are vigorous, biomass production is near potential and there is a diversity of species characteristic of and appropriate to the site.

Physical Environment:

· Erosional flow patterns

· Surface litter

· Soil movement by water and wind

· Infiltration

· Soil crusting and surface sealing

· Compaction layer

· Rills

· Gullies

· Cover amount; and cover distribution Biotic Environment:

· Community diversity

· Community structure

· Exotic plants

· Photosynthesis activity

· Plant status

· Seed production

· Recruitment; and nutrient cycle The above indicators shall be applied to the potential of the ecological site.

Determination:

X Meeting the Standard

□ Not Meeting the Standard, but making significant progress towards standard

□ Not Meeting the Standard, not making significant progress toward standard

Causal Factors

□ Livestock are a contributing factor to not meeting the standard.

□ Livestock are not a contributing factor to not meeting the standard

□ Failure to meet the standard is related to other issues or conditions

Guidelines Conformance:

X In conformance with the Guidelines

□ Not in conformance with the Guideline

Conclusion: Meeting the Standard Evaluation: Overall, soils on the allotments are stable, show biotic integrity, and are productive. Though changes have occurred over time, hydrologic, nutrient, and energy cycles continue to function. We observed very little to no soil loss or degradation. Perennial, native grasses are very effective at holding soil cover due to their basal area and their fine, fibrous root systems. These grasses contribute organic matter directly into the soil and help build stable soil aggregates. In addition the amounts of rock, other plant, and litter cover provide armor against wind erosion, increase infiltration, and decrease runoff.

Bridger Creek 2 Allotment The ecological site for key area BR- 1 is R058AC059MT Shallow Clay 11-14” p.z. Artemisia frigida - Artemisia cana / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Pascopyrum smithii (fringed sagewort - silver sagebrush / bluebunch wheatgrass - western wheatgrass) rangeland. Vegetative cover collected at BR-1 was adequate to ensure soil stabilization, and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological system. There were no rills/gullies present at the site, pedestals and/or terracettes were slight to non-existent. Wind-scouring and litter movement were none to slight.

The approximate potential ground cover (surface, basal and foliar) is described in Tables 4 and 5 below. Table 3 specifically provides a comparison between the desired condition as described by the Ecological Site Description (ESD) (NRCS 2003) and the current condition based on most recent monitoring. Litter should be in the range of 50 to 70% with 0 to 5% of the surface potentially being covered by rocks or rock fragments, bare ground between 15 to 30%. Foliar cover collected at BR-1 was 82% with 3% basal cover of perennial grasses and sagebrush. Rock or rock fragments covered 0% of the soil surface. Biological crust was measured at 4%, utilization, measured at the key area, was 0%, we observed no recent sign of livestock.

Table 4. A comparison between conditions described in the ESD (R058AC059MT – NRCS 2003) and current conditions of key management area BR-1. Soil cover components include: plants, biological crusts, litter, surface fragments, rock, and bare ground.

Table 5. Foliar cover of species recorded in the LPI plot for key area BR-1 in June 2019.

Cover/Litter/Bare Ground

Figure 1. Species composition at BR-1 based on LPI data collected in June 2019.

Table 6. Functional/structural plant groups at BR-1

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Conclusion: In general the composition, structure and distribution are present as described within the ESD throughout a majority of the allotment. However, line point intercept (LPI) cover data collected at the key area indicates that wheatgrass, as well as suffrutescent forbs are reduced. The ESD describes the community in this state as “The physical aspect of this site in the Historical Climax (HCPC) is that of a gentle to steep sloping grassland with scattered shrubs on steeper slopes. Approximately 70–75% of the annual production is from grasses and sedges, 5–10% from forbs, and 5–15% is from shrubs and half-shrubs. The canopy cover of shrubs is 1-5%. Sagebrush density is above what is called for within the ESD. This is a natural process that occurs over time without disturbance within the system. This is part of the “natural variability” of the ecological site.

The vegetative community at BR-1 represents the composition, structure, and distribution of a state and transition community 2 that is described in the ESD as: “Medium and Short Grasses and Sedges, Shrubs and half-shrubs”. The functional/structure group was found to have none or only a slight deviation from the 2 community as described within the ESD. Although slight deviations from the 2 community may exist in minor areas within the allotment, the composition (table 5) and structure of the vegetation (table 4) still provides well distributed habitat for wildlife (general wildlife and sensitive species) and other multiple uses.

Cottonwood Allotment The ecological site for key area Cotton-1 and C-47 is R058AC041MT Clayey 11-14” p.z. Pseudoroegneria spicata - Nassella viridula (bluebunch wheatgrass - green needlegrass) rangeland. Vegetative cover collected Cotton-1 and C-47 key areas was adequate to ensure soil stabilization, and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological system. There were no rills/gullies present at the site, pedestals and/or terracettes were slight to non-existent. Wind-scouring and litter movement were none to slight. The approximate potential ground cover (surface, basal and foliar) is described in Tables 8 and 9 below. The tables specifically provides a comparison between the desired condition as described by the Ecological Site Description (ESD) (NRCS 2003) and the current condition based on most recent monitoring. For range site R058AC041MT Clayey 11-14” p.z. Litter should be in the range of 50 to 70% with 0 to 5% of the surface potentially being covered by rocks or rock fragments, bare ground between 10 to 20%.

Foliar cover collected at Cotton-1 was 84% with 6% basal cover of perennial grasses and sagebrush. Rock or rock fragments covered 0% of the soil surface. Biological crust was measured at 0%, utilization, measured at the key area, was 0%, we observed no recent sign of livestock. Tables 9 and 10 lists cover of the key areas by species based on data collected. The Daubenmire method was used to collect foliar cover at C-47. The Daubenmire method of collection does not directly correlate to data used in the ecological site descriptions to cover interpretations. This is summarized in table 12 below.

The ecological site for key area Cottonwood C-48 is R058AC057MT Shallow 11-14” p.z. Pseudoroegneria spicata - Nassella viridula (bluebunch wheatgrass - green needlegrass) rangeland. For this range site Grasses/Grasslike cover should be in the range of 40 to 60%, with forbs 5 to 10%, shrubs ranging from 1 to 7%. Litter should be in the range of 40 to 60% with 5 to 10% of the surface potentially being covered by rocks or rock fragments, bare ground between 15 to 30%.

Vegetative cover collected C-48 key area was adequate to ensure soil stabilization, and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological system. There were no rills/gullies present at the site, pedestals and/or terracettes were slight to non-existent. Wind-scouring and litter movement were none to slight.

Foliar cover collected a C-48 was 78% with bare ground measuring 22%, total litter was 6%. Utilization, measured at the key area, was 0%, we observed no recent sign of livestock.

Table 7. A comparison between conditions described in the ESD (R058AC041MT – NRCS 2003) and current conditions of key management area Cotton-1 and C-47. Soil cover components include: plants, biological crusts, litter, surface fragments, rock, and bare ground.

Table 8. A comparison between conditions described in the ESD (R058AC057MT – NRCS 2003) and current conditions of key management area C-48. Soil cover components include: plants, biological crusts, litter, surface fragments, rock, and bare ground.

Table 9. Foliar cover of species recorded in the LPI plot for key area Cotton-1 in June 2019.

Cover/Litter/Bare Ground

Table 10. Foliar cover of species recorded in the LPI plot for key area C-48 in June 2019.

Foliar Cover

Cover/Litter/Bare Ground

Table 11. Relative Composition Based on Daubenmire Data Collected at C-47 in June 2019.

Relative Composition

Cover/Litter/Bare Ground

Figure 2. Species composition at Cotton-1 based on LPI data collected in June 2019.

Figure 3. Species composition at C-48 based on LPI data collected in June 2019.

Figure 4. Species composition at C-47 based on Daubenmire data collected in June 2019.

Table 12. Functional/structural plant groups at Cotton-1

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Table 13. Functional/structural plant groups at C-48

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Table 14. Functional/structural plant groups at C-47

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Conclusion:

In general the composition, structure and distribution are present as described within the ESDs throughout a majority of the allotment. The data at the trend plots showed that foliar, and litter cover are adequate to ensure soil stabilization and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological sites. In addition we observed very little to no signs of erosion at the sites. The ESDs describe the plant communities as “naturally variable” where “composition and production will vary based on yearly conditions, location, aspect, soils,” and previous disturbances (NRCS 2003).

At key areas C-48 and Cotton-1 the ESD describes the HCPC community as; “The physical aspect of this site in the Historical Climax (HCPC) is that of a level to undulating grassland dominated by cool season grasses, with forbs and shrubs occurring in smaller percentages. Approximately 85-90% of the annual production by weight is from grasses and sedges, 1–5% is from forbs, and 5–10% is from shrubs, half-shrubs, and cacti. Canopy cover of shrubs is typically 1-5%. Trees are not significant on this site.” However data collected indicates that there is a high percentage of cheatgrass at the sites. Also, cover data collected at the key areas indicates that wheatgrass, as well as suffrutescent forbs are reduced. The current composition indicates that these key areas are in a state and transition 2B as indicated within the ESD. This is part of the natural variability of the ecological site.

At key area C-47 the ESD describes the HCPC community as “The physical aspect of this site in the Historical Climax (HCPC) is that of mixed grass/ shrub land dominated by cool-season bunchgrasses and a mixture of shrubs. Approximately 70–80% of the annual production is from grasses and sedges, 5–10% from forbs, and 10–20% is from shrubs and half-shrubs. Canopy cover of shrubs is typically 5 to 15%. Ponderosa pine may occur on this site, as well as Rocky Mountain juniper.

Dominant species include bluebunch wheatgrass, green needlegrass, plains muhly, western or thickspike wheatgrass, and needle-and-thread. Short grasses and sedges such as Sandberg bluegrass, prairie junegrass, and threadleaf sedge are also present. There are abundant forbs (purple and white prairie clover, prairie coneflower, dotted gayfeather) which occur in smaller percentages. Shrubs such as Wyoming big sagebrush and skunkbush sumac are common. Rocky Mountain and creeping juniper may also occur.” Data collected at C-47 generally represent this state and transition bordering on state and transition model level 2. Overall, throughout the allotment the Ecological processes including hydrologic cycle, nutrient cycle and energy flow are maintained and support healthy biotic populations. Plants are vigorous, biomass production is near potential and there is a diversity of species characteristic of and appropriate to the site. General composition, structure and distribution are present as described within the ESDs throughout a majority of the allotment. Although slight deviations from the state and transition communities may exist in minor areas within the allotment, the composition and structure of the vegetation still provides well distributed habitat for wildlife (general wildlife and sensitive species) and other multiple uses.

Cottonwood Road Allotment The ecological site for key area CR-1 is R058AC041MT Clayey 11-14” p.z. Pseudoroegneria spicata - Nassella viridula (bluebunch wheatgrass - green needlegrass) rangeland. Vegetative cover collected Cottonwood road-1 key area was adequate to ensure soil stabilization, and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological system. There were no rills/gullies present at the site, pedestals and/or terracettes were slight to non-existent. Wind-scouring and litter movement were none to slight. The approximate potential ground cover (surface, basal and foliar) is described in Table 15 below. The table specifically provides a comparison between the desired condition as described by the Ecological Site Description (ESD) (NRCS 2003) and the current condition based on most recent monitoring. For range site R058AC041MT Clayey 11-14” p.z. Litter should be in the range of 50 to 70% with 0 to 5% of the surface potentially being covered by rocks or rock fragments, bare ground between 10 to 20%.

Foliar cover collected at CR-1 was 88% with 6% basal cover of grasses and sagebrush. Rock or rock fragments covered 2% of the soil surface. Biological crust was measured at 0%, utilization, measured at the key area, was 0%, we observed no recent sign of livestock. Table 16 lists cover of the key areas by species based on data collected.

Table 15. A comparison between conditions described in the ESD (R058AC041MT – NRCS 2003) and current conditions of key management area CR-1. Soil cover components include: plants, biological crusts, litter, surface fragments, rock, and bare ground.

Table 16. Foliar cover of species recorded in the LPI plot for key area CR-1 in June 2019.

Cover/Litter/Bare Ground

Figure 5. Species composition at CR-1 key area based on LPI data collected in June 2019.

Table 17. Functional/structural plant groups at CR-1

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Conclusion: In general the composition, structure and distribution are present as described within the ESDs throughout a majority of the allotment. The data at the trend plots showed that foliar, and litter cover are adequate to ensure soil stabilization and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological sites. In addition we observed very little to no signs of erosion at the sites. The ESDs describe the plant communities as “naturally variable” where “composition and production will vary based on yearly conditions, location, aspect, soils,” and previous disturbances (NRCS 2003).

At key area CR-1 the ESD describes the HCPC community as; “The physical aspect of this site in the Historical Climax (HCPC) is that of a level to undulating grassland dominated by cool season grasses, with forbs and shrubs occurring in smaller percentages. Approximately 85-90% of the annual production by weight is from grasses and sedges, 1–5% is from forbs, and 5–10% is from shrubs, half-shrubs, and cacti. Canopy cover of shrubs is typically 1-5%. Trees are not significant on this site.” However data collected indicates that there is a high percentage of cheatgrass at the sites. Also, cover data collected at the key areas indicates that wheatgrass, as well as suffrutescent forbs are reduced. The current composition indicates that these key areas are in a state and transition community phase 2.2 as indicated within the ESD. This is described as “The diversity of insect pollinators may be reduced as desirable forbs are replaced by more aggressive species. The partial loss of structural diversity makes this plant community somewhat less attractive to the variety of wildlife species using the HCPC or PPC. A decrease in residual plant material and litter cover is usually associated with degradation of the HCPC, which makes this community less attractive for ground-nesting birds. Pronghorn make considerable use of this type because of forb and half-shrub availability in the generally open landscape.” This is part of the natural variability of the ecological site.

Overall, throughout the allotment the Ecological processes including hydrologic cycle, nutrient cycle and energy flow are maintained and support healthy biotic populations. Plants are vigorous, biomass production is near potential and there is a diversity of species characteristic of and appropriate to the site. General composition, structure and distribution are present as described within the ESDs throughout a majority of the allotment. Although slight deviations from the state and transition communities may exist in minor areas within the allotment, the composition and structure of the vegetation still provides well distributed habitat for wildlife (general wildlife and sensitive species) and other multiple uses.

Cub Creek Allotment The ecological site for key areas C-46, C-49, C-79 and C-76 is R058AC041MT Clayey 11-14” p.z. Pseudoroegneria spicata - Nassella viridula (bluebunch wheatgrass - green needlegrass) rangeland. Vegetative cover collected the key areas was adequate to ensure soil stabilization, and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological system. All of the key areas within the allotment use the Daubenmire method of collection which does not directly correlate to data used in the ecological site descriptions to cover interpretations. Tables 18, 23, and 25 would not be able to accurately reflect comparisons in vegetative cover between the data collected by Daubenmire method and the ESDs. At key area C-46 there was a moderate departure from reference conditions for water erosion across the soil surface. There was also slight to moderate departure from reference with litter movement, resistance to erosion, and plant mortality. The overall rating for this key area is a slight to moderate departure due to a recent fire that burned through the area the previous year. These soil indicators are to be expected so soon after a natural disturbance like fire.

At C-49, C-76, and C-79 there were no rills/gullies present at the site, pedestals and/or terracettes were slight to non-existent. Wind-scouring and litter movement were none to slight. For range site R058AC041MT Clayey 11-14” p.z. Litter should be in the range of 50 to 70% with 0 to 5% of the surface potentially being covered by rocks or rock fragments, bare ground between 10 to 20%.

Table 18. A comparison between conditions described in the ESD HCPC community (R058AC041MT – NRCS 2003) and current conditions of key management area C-46, 49, 76, and C-79. Soil cover components include: plants, biological crusts, litter, surface fragments, rock, and bare ground.

C-49

C-76

C-79

Table 19. Relative Composition of species recorded in the Daubenmire plot for key area C-46 in June 2019.

Composition

Persistent Litter/ Non-persistent litter/Bare Ground

Table 20. Relative Composition of species recorded in the Daubenmire plot for key area C-49 in June 2019.

Composition

Persistent Litter/ Non-persistent litter/Bare Ground

Table 21. Relative Composition of species recorded in the Daubenmire plot for key area C-76 in June 2019.

Composition

Persistent Litter/ Non-persistent litter/Bare Ground

Table 22. Relative Composition of species recorded in the Daubenmire plot for key area C-79 in June 2019.

Composition

Persistent Litter/ Non-persistent litter/Bare Ground

The ecological site for key area C-77 is R058AC053MT DenseClay 11-14” p.z. Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis - Artemisia frigida / Pascopyrum smithii - Nassella viridula (Wyoming big sagebrush - fringed sagewort / western wheatgrass - green needlegrass) rangeland. The physical aspect of this site is that of a very sparse grassland and shrubland that is typically dominated by cool season grasses and shrubs. Approximately 80–85% of the annual production is from grasses and sedges, 1–5% from forbs, and 5–10% is from shrubs and half-shrubs. The canopy cover of shrubs is 5-10%. Vegetative cover collected the key areas was adequate to ensure soil stabilization, and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological system. There were no rills/gullies present at the site, pedestals and/or terracettes were slight to non-existent. Wind-scouring and litter movement were none to slight. Table 24 lists cover of the key areas by species based on data collected. At key area C-77 the Daubenmire method of collection does not directly correlate to data used in the ecological site descriptions to cover interpretations.

Table 23. A comparison between conditions described in the ESD HCPC site (R058AC053MT – NRCS 2003) and current conditions of key management area C-77. Soil cover components include: plants, biological crusts, litter, surface fragments, rock, and bare ground.

Table 24. Relative Composition of species recorded in the Daubenmire plot for key area C-77 in June 2019.

Composition

Persistent Litter/ Non-persistent litter/Bare Ground

The ecological site for key area C-78 is R058AC057MT Shallow 11-14” p.z. Pseudoroegneria spicata - Nassella viridula (bluebunch wheatgrass - green needlegrass) rangeland. For this range site Grasses/Grasslike cover should be in the range of 40 to 60%, with forbs 5 to 10%, shrubs ranging from 1 to 7%. Litter should be in the range of 40 to 60% with 5 to 10% of the surface potentially being covered by rocks or rock fragments, bare ground between 15 to 30%.

Vegetative cover collected C-78 key area was adequate to ensure soil stabilization, and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological system. There were no rills/gullies present at the site, pedestals and/or terracettes were slight to non-existent. Wind-scouring and litter movement were none to slight.

Tables 26 lists cover of the key areas by species based on data collected. At key area C-78 the Daubenmire method of collection does not directly correlate to data used in the ecological site descriptions to cover interpretations.

Table 25. A comparison between conditions described in the ESD (R058AC057MT – NRCS 2003) and current conditions of key management area C-78. Soil cover components include: plants, biological crusts, litter, surface fragments, rock, and bare ground.

Table 26. Relative Composition of species recorded in the Daubenmire plot for key area C-78 in June 2019.

Composition

Persistent Litter/ Non-persistent litter/Bare Ground

Tables 27 through 32 represent functional structural groups at the key areas representing species richness.

Table 27. Functional/structural plant groups at C-46

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Table 28. Functional/structural plant groups at C-49

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Table 29. Functional/structural plant groups at C-76

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Table 30. Functional/structural plant groups at C-77

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Table 31. Functional/structural plant groups at C-78

D

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Table 32. Functional/structural plant groups at C-79

D

Dominant (D) roughly 40-100% composition, Sub-dominant (S) roughly 10-40% composition, Minor Composition (M) roughly 2-5% composition, or Trace (T) roughly <2% composition.

Conclusion: In general the composition, structure and distribution are present as described within the ESDs throughout a majority of the allotment. The data at the trend plots showed that foliar, and litter cover are adequate to ensure soil stabilization and appropriate permeability rates within the ecological sites. In addition we observed very little to no signs of erosion at the sites. The ESDs describe the plant communities as “naturally variable” where “composition and production will vary based on yearly conditions, location, aspect, soils,” and previous disturbances (NRCS 2003).

At key areas C-46, C-49, C-76, and C-79 the ESD describes the HCPC community as; “that of mixed grass/ shrub land dominated by cool-season bunchgrasses and a mixture of shrubs. Approximately 70–80% of the annual production is from grasses and sedges, 5–10% from forbs, and 10–20% is from shrubs and half-shrubs. Canopy cover of shrubs is typically 5 to 15%. Ponderosa pine may occur on this site, as well as Rocky Mountain juniper. Dominant species include bluebunch wheatgrass, green needlegrass, plains muhly, western or thickspike wheatgrass, and needle-and-thread. Short grasses and sedges such as Sandberg bluegrass, prairie junegrass, and threadleaf sedge are also present. There are abundant forbs (purple and white prairie clover, prairie coneflower, dotted gayfeather) which occur in smaller percentages. Shrubs such as Wyoming big sagebrush and skunkbush sumac are common. Rocky Mountain and creeping juniper may also occur.” Data collected at the key areas generally represent this state and transition bordering on state and transition model level 2 At key area C-77 the ESD describes the HCPC community as “This is the interpretive plant community and is considered to be the Historic Climax Plant Community (HCPC) for this site. This plant community contains a diversity of tall and medium height, cool season grasses (western or thickspike wheatgrass, green needlegrass, and bluebunch wheatgrass), and short grasses (blue grama, Sandberg bluegrass). There are numerous forbs that occur in smaller percentages. Shrubs and half-shrubs such as Nuttall’s saltbush and winterfat are common. Wyoming big sagebrush is also often a common component of this community.” Data collected at this key area that the state and transition of this sites community phase is 2.2. This is described as “This community occurs due to minor climate shifts or slight variations in soils and/or topography or disturbance, including non-prescribed grazing. Dominants include Wyoming big sagebrush and western/thickspike wheatgrass, Sandberg bluegrass and blue grama. The medium and tall grasses such as green needlegrass and bluebunch wheatgrass will still be present, sometimes in relatively large amounts. The desirable shrubs/half-shrubs such as Nuttall’s saltbush and winterfat will be somewhat less prevalent. Palatable and nutritious forbs will begin to be replaced by less desirable and more aggressive species such as scarlet globemallow.”

At key area C-78 the ESD describes the HCPC community as “The physical aspect of this site in the Historical Climax (HCPC) is that of a level to undulating grassland dominated by cool season grasses, with forbs and shrubs occurring in smaller percentages. Approximately 85-90% of the annual production by weight is from grasses and sedges, 1–5% is from forbs, and 5–10% is from shrubs, half-shrubs, and cacti. Canopy cover of shrubs is typically 1-5%. Trees are not significant on this site.” However data collected indicates that there is a high percentage of cheatgrass at the sites. The current composition indicates that these key areas are in a state and transition community phase 1.1 but bordering phase 2.1 as indicated within the ESD.