ARS | Publication request: Vulnerability and triggers in threshold development: models from the Chihuahuan Desert

Submitted to: Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: November 30, 2007
Publication Date: January 26, 2008
Citation: Bestelmeyer, B.T., Herrick, J.E., Steele, C.M. 2008. Vulnerability and triggers in threshold development: models from the Chihuahuan Desert [abstract]. Society for Range Management Meetings, Building Bridges; Grasslands to Rangelands, January 26-31, 2008, Louisville, Kentucky. p. 1487. 2008 CDROM.

Technical Abstract: We review models developed for the Draw and Loamy ecological sites in Major Land Resource Area 42.2 in southwestern New Mexico and review empirical support obtained for parts of the model. We describe evidence for 1) vulnerability to transitions and associated triggers and 2) the characteristics of alternative states. Remote-sensing based evidence supports the notion that fragmentation of grass cover creates vulnerability to transition, and anecdotal evidence supports the notion that high intensity storms serve as triggers that initiate erosion and gully formation. Field measurements indicate that degradation of soil structure, increased run-off, and reduced water infiltration are important feedbacks components driving the transition and reinforcing state changes. These relationships are strongly mediated by soil horizon development differences within the ecological site. The state-and-transition model thus links these scientific studies and provides indicators that can be used by managers to gauge the likelihood of threshold development.