**INTERNATIONAL ECOLOGICAL\
CLASSIFICATION STANDARD:**

**Terrestrial Ecological Classifications**

**Sagebrush Vegetation Classification**

**for the Western United States:**

**Plant Associations and Alliances**

23 December 2004

by

NatureServe

1101 Wilson Blvd., 15^th^ floor

Arlington, VA 22209

This subset of the International Ecological Classification Standard
covers Sagebrush vegetation associations and alliances attributed to the
western US**.** This classification has been developed in consultation
with many individuals and agencies and incorporates information from a
variety of publications and other classifications. Comments and
suggestions regarding the contents of this subset should be directed to
Jimmy Kagan \<[jimmy.kagan@orst.edu]{.underline}\> and Marion Reid
<marion_reid@natureserve.org>.

![](media/image1.png){width="2.0097222222222224in"
height="1.1263888888888889in"}

Copyright © 2004 NatureServe, 1101 Wilson Blvd, 15^th^ floor\
Arlington, VA 22209, U.S.A. All Rights Reserved.

**Citations:**

*The following citation should be used in any published materials which
reference ecological system and/or International Vegetation
Classification (IVC hierarchy) and association data:*

NatureServe. 2004. International Ecological Classification Standard:
Terrestrial Ecological Classifications. NatureServe Central Databases.
Arlington, VA. U.S.A. Data current as of \<Dec 23, 2004\>.

**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 still be referenced using the citation above.

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**Information Warranty Disclaimer:** All data are provided as is without
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NatureServe

1101 Wilson Blvd, 15^th^ floor

Arlington, VA 22209

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

These data are extracted from:

NatureServe. 2004. International Ecological Classification Standard:
Terrestrial Ecological Classifications. NatureServe Central Databases.
Arlington, VA. U.S.A. Data current as of 23 December 2004.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

This document may be generally cited as follows:

NatureServe^1^. 2004. International Ecological Classification Standard:
Terrestrial Ecological Classifications. Sagebrush associations and
alliances of the western US. NatureServe Central Databases. Arlington,
VA and Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center, Portland, OR. Data
current as of 23 December 2004.

^1^ NatureServe is an international organization including NatureServe
regional offices, a NatureServe central office, U.S. State Natural
Heritage Programs, and Conservation Data Centres (CDC) in Canada and
Latin America and the Caribbean. Ecologists from the following
organizations have contributed the development of the ecological systems
classification:

**United States**

Central NatureServe Office, Arlington, VA; Eastern Regional Office,
Boston, MA; Midwestern Regional Office, Minneapolis, MN; Southeastern
Regional Office, Durham, NC; Western Regional Office, Boulder, CO;
Alabama Natural Heritage Program, Montgomery AL; Alaska Natural Heritage
Program, Anchorage, AK; Arizona Heritage Data Management Center, Phoenix
AZ; Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission Little Rock, AR; Blue Ridge
Parkway, Asheville, NC; California Natural Heritage Program, Sacramento,
CA; Colorado Natural Heritage Program, Fort Collins, CO; Connecticut
Natural Diversity Database, Hartford, CT; Delaware Natural Heritage
Program, Smyrna, DE; District of Columbia Natural Heritage
Program/National Capital Region Conservation Data Center, Washington DC;
Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Tallahassee, FL; Georgia Natural
Heritage Program, Social Circle, GA; Great Smoky Mountains National
Park, Gatlinburg, TN; Gulf Islands National Seashore, Gulf Breeze, FL;
Hawaii Natural Heritage Program, Honolulu, Hawaii; Idaho Conservation
Data Center, Boise, ID; Illinois Natural Heritage Division/Illinois
Natural Heritage Database Program, Springfield, IL; Indiana Natural
Heritage Data Center, Indianapolis, IN; Iowa Natural Areas Inventory,
Des Moines, IA; Kansas Natural Heritage Inventory, Lawrence, KS;
Kentucky Natural Heritage Program, Frankfort, KY; Louisiana Natural
Heritage Program, Baton Rouge, LA; Maine Natural Areas Program, Augusta,
ME; Mammoth Cave National Park, Mammoth Cave, KY; Maryland Wildlife &
Heritage Division, Annapolis, MD; Massachusetts Natural Heritage &
Endangered Species Program, Westborough, MA; Michigan Natural Features
Inventory, Lansing, MI; Minnesota Natural Heritage & Nongame Research
and Minnesota County Biological Survey, St. Paul, MN; Mississippi
Natural Heritage Program, Jackson, MI; Missouri Natural Heritage
Database, Jefferson City, MO; Montana Natural Heritage Program, Helena,
MT; National Forest in North Carolina, Asheville, NC; National Forests
in Florida, Tallahassee, FL; National Park Service, Southeastern
Regional Office, Atlanta, GA; Navajo Natural Heritage Program, Window
Rock, AZ; Nebraska Natural Heritage Program, Lincoln, NE; Nevada Natural
Heritage Program, Carson City, NV; New Hampshire Natural Heritage
Inventory, Concord, NH; New Jersey Natural Heritage Program, Trenton,
NJ; New Mexico Natural Heritage Program, Albuquerque , NM; New York
Natural Heritage Program, Latham, NY; North Carolina Natural Heritage
Program, Raleigh, NC; North Dakota Natural Heritage Inventory, Bismarck,
ND; Ohio Natural Heritage Database, Columbus, OH; Oklahoma Natural
Heritage Inventory, Norman, OK; Oregon Natural Heritage Program,
Portland, OR; Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory, PA; Rhode Island
Natural Heritage Program, Providence, RI; South Carolina Heritage Trust,
Columbia, SC; South Dakota Natural Heritage Data Base, Pierre, SD;
Tennessee Division of Natural Heritage, Nashville, TN; Tennessee Valley
Authority Heritage Program, Norris, TN; Texas Conservation Data Center,
San Antonio, TX; Utah Natural Heritage Program, Salt Lake City, UT;
Vermont Nongame & Natural Heritage Program, Waterbury, VT; Virginia
Division of Natural Heritage, Richmond, VA; Washington Natural Heritage
Program, Olympia, WA; West Virginia Natural Heritage Program, Elkins,
WV; Wisconsin Natural Heritage Program, Madison, WI; Wyoming Natural
Diversity Database, Laramie, WY

**Canada**

Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre, Edmonton, AB, Canada;
Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Centre, Sackville, New Brunswick,
Canada; British Columbia Conservation Data Centre, Victoria, BC, Canada;
Manitoba Conservation Data Centre. Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Ontario Natural
Heritage Information Centre, Peterborough, ON, Canada; Quebec
Conservation Data Centre, Quebec, QC, Canada; Saskatchewan Conservation
Data Centre, Regina, SK, Canada; Yukon Conservation Data Centre, Yukon,
Canada

**Latin American and Caribbean**

Centro de Datos para la Conservacion de Bolivia, La Paz , Bolivia;
Centro de Datos para la Conservacion de Colombia, Cali,Valle, Columbia;
Centro de Datos para la Conservacion de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador; Centro
de Datos para la Conservacion de Guatemala, Ciudad de Guatemala ,
Guatemala; Centro de Datos para la Conservacion de Panama, Querry
Heights , Panama; Centro de Datos para la Conservacion de Paraguay, San
Lorenzo , Paraguay; Centro de Datos para la Conservacion de Peru, Lima,
Peru; Centro de Datos para la Conservacion de Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora
, Mexico; Netherlands Antilles Natural Heritage Program, Curacao ,
Netherlands Antilles; Puerto Rico-Departmento De Recursos Naturales Y
Ambientales, Puerto Rico; Virgin Islands Conservation Data Center, St.
Thomas, Virgin Islands.

NatureServe also has partnered with many International and United States
Federal and State organizations, which have also contributed
significantly to the development of the International Classification.
Partners include the following The Nature Conservancy; Provincial Forest
Ecosystem Classification Groups in Canada; Canadian Forest Service;
Parks Canada; United States Forest Service; National GAP Analysis
Program; United States National Park Service; United States Fish and
Wildlife Service; United States Geological Survey; United States
Department of Defense; Ecological Society of America; Environmental
Protection Agency; Natural Resource Conservation Services; United States
Department of Energy; and the Tennessee Valley Authority. Many
individual state organizations and people from academic institutions
have also contributed to the development of this classification.

Table of Contents

[III. Shrubland 6](#iii.-shrubland)

[III.A.4.N.a. Lowland microphyllous evergreen shrubland
6](#iii.a.4.n.a.-lowland-microphyllous-evergreen-shrubland)

[A.2547--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance
6](#a.2547artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002982--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula - Artemisia
tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland
\[Provisional\]
7](#cegl002982artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula---artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-festuca-idahoensis-shrubland-provisional)

[CEGL002983--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula - Artemisia
tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland
\[Provisional\]
8](#cegl002983artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula---artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-festuca-idahoensis-shrubland-provisional)

[CEGL003483--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Eriogonum
microthecum* Shrubland
8](#cegl003483artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-eriogonum-microthecum-shrubland)

[CEGL003482--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Leptodactylon
pungens* Shrubland
9](#cegl003482artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-leptodactylon-pungens-shrubland)

[A.2548--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance
10](#a.2548artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longicaulis-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002984--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis - Grayia spinosa*
Shrubland
11](#cegl002984artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longicaulis---grayia-spinosa-shrubland)

[CEGL002985--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis / Bromus tectorum*
Semi-natural Shrubland
11](#cegl002985artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longicaulis-bromus-tectorum-semi-natural-shrubland)

[CEGL002986--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis / Elymus elymoides*
Shrubland
12](#cegl002986artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longicaulis-elymus-elymoides-shrubland)

[A.2549--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance
13](#a.2549artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longiloba-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001414--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland
14](#cegl001414artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longiloba-shrubland)

[A.813--*Artemisia californica - Eriogonum fasciculatum* Shrubland
Alliance
15](#a.813artemisia-californica---eriogonum-fasciculatum-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL003011--*Artemisia californica - Eriogonum fasciculatum* Shrubland
\[Placeholder\]
16](#cegl003011artemisia-californica---eriogonum-fasciculatum-shrubland-placeholder)

[A.814--*Artemisia californica - Salvia mellifera* Shrubland Alliance
16](#a.814artemisia-californica---salvia-mellifera-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL003012--*Artemisia californica - Salvia mellifera* Shrubland
\[Placeholder\]
17](#cegl003012artemisia-californica---salvia-mellifera-shrubland-placeholder)

[A.815--*Artemisia californica* Shrubland Alliance
18](#a.815artemisia-californica-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL003013--*Artemisia californica* Shrubland \[Placeholder\]
19](#cegl003013artemisia-californica-shrubland-placeholder)

[A.2557--*Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrubland
Alliance
19](#a.2557artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-ssp.-viscidula-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001460--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) /
Leymus cinereus* Shrubland
21](#cegl001460artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-ssp.-viscidula-leymus-cinereus-shrubland)

[CEGL002988--*Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula) / Poa
pratensis* Semi-natural Shrubland
22](#cegl002988artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-ssp.-viscidula-poa-pratensis-semi-natural-shrubland)

[CEGL001548--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) / Poa
secunda* Shrubland
23](#cegl001548artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-ssp.-viscidula-poa-secunda-shrubland)

[CEGL002987--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *bolanderi / Eleocharis palustris*
Shrubland
24](#cegl002987artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-eleocharis-palustris-shrubland)

[CEGL003475--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *bolanderi / Iris missouriensis -
Juncus balticus* Shrubland
25](#cegl003475artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-iris-missouriensis---juncus-balticus-shrubland)

[CEGL001075--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula* - (*Salix* spp.) /
*Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland
25](#cegl001075artemisia-cana-ssp.-viscidula---salix-spp.-festuca-idahoensis-shrubland)

[CEGL001074--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Deschampsia caespitosa*
Shrubland
27](#cegl001074artemisia-cana-ssp.-viscidula-deschampsia-caespitosa-shrubland)

[CEGL001076--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca ovina* Shrubland
28](#cegl001076artemisia-cana-ssp.-viscidula-festuca-ovina-shrubland)

[CEGL001071--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca thurberi*
Shrubland
29](#cegl001071artemisia-cana-ssp.-viscidula-festuca-thurberi-shrubland)

[CEGL001073--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Purshia tridentata*
Shrubland
30](#cegl001073artemisia-cana-ssp.-viscidula-purshia-tridentata-shrubland)

[A.827--*Artemisia cana* Shrubland Alliance
30](#a.827artemisia-cana-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002175--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana - Sarcobatus vermiculatus -
(Ericameria nauseosa)* Shrubland
31](#cegl002175artemisia-cana-ssp.-cana---sarcobatus-vermiculatus---ericameria-nauseosa-shrubland)

[A.816--*Artemisia filifolia* Shrubland Alliance
32](#a.816artemisia-filifolia-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002786--*Artemisia filifolia - Ephedra (torreyana, viridis)*
Shrubland
34](#cegl002786artemisia-filifolia---ephedra-torreyana-viridis-shrubland)

[CEGL004561--*Artemisia filifolia - Psorothamnus scoparius - Dalea
lanata* Gypsum Dune Shrubland
35](#cegl004561artemisia-filifolia---psorothamnus-scoparius---dalea-lanata-gypsum-dune-shrubland)

[CEGL004559--*Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii - Achnatherum
hymenoides* Gypsum Dune Shrubland
36](#cegl004559artemisia-filifolia-andropogon-hallii---achnatherum-hymenoides-gypsum-dune-shrubland)

[CEGL001459--*Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Shrubland
37](#cegl001459artemisia-filifolia-andropogon-hallii-shrubland)

[CEGL002176--*Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua (curtipendula, gracilis)*
Shrubland
38](#cegl002176artemisia-filifolia-bouteloua-curtipendula-gracilis-shrubland)

[CEGL004560--*Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua breviseta - Gaillardia
multiceps* Shrubland
39](#cegl004560artemisia-filifolia-bouteloua-breviseta---gaillardia-multiceps-shrubland)

[CEGL001077--*Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua eriopoda* Shrubland
40](#cegl001077artemisia-filifolia-bouteloua-eriopoda-shrubland)

[CEGL002177--*Artemisia filifolia / Calamovilfa longifolia* Shrubland
41](#cegl002177artemisia-filifolia-calamovilfa-longifolia-shrubland)

[CEGL002178--*Artemisia filifolia / Schizachyrium scoparium - Andropogon
hallii* Shrubland
42](#cegl002178artemisia-filifolia-schizachyrium-scoparium---andropogon-hallii-shrubland)

[CEGL002179--*Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus cryptandrus* Shrubland
43](#cegl002179artemisia-filifolia-sporobolus-cryptandrus-shrubland)

[CEGL001547--*Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus flexuosus* Shrubland
44](#cegl001547artemisia-filifolia-sporobolus-flexuosus-shrubland)

[CEGL001078--*Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus giganteus* Shrubland
44](#cegl001078artemisia-filifolia-sporobolus-giganteus-shrubland)

[CEGL002697--*Artemisia filifolia* Colorado Plateau Shrubland
45](#cegl002697artemisia-filifolia-colorado-plateau-shrubland)

[A.1105--*Artemisia nova* Shrubland Alliance
46](#a.1105artemisia-nova-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002773--*Artemisia nova - Ericameria nana* Shrubland
47](#cegl002773artemisia-nova---ericameria-nana-shrubland)

[CEGL001419--*Artemisia nova - Gutierrezia sarothrae / Bouteloua
gracilis - Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland
48](#cegl001419artemisia-nova---gutierrezia-sarothrae-bouteloua-gracilis---pleuraphis-jamesii-shrubland)

[CEGL001422--*Artemisia nova / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland
49](#cegl001422artemisia-nova-achnatherum-hymenoides-shrubland)

[CEGL001418--*Artemisia nova / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland
49](#cegl001418artemisia-nova-elymus-elymoides-shrubland)

[CEGL001425--*Artemisia nova / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland
51](#cegl001425artemisia-nova-hesperostipa-comata-shrubland)

[CEGL001420--*Artemisia nova / Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland
52](#cegl001420artemisia-nova-pleuraphis-jamesii-shrubland)

[CEGL002698--*Artemisia nova / Poa fendleriana* Shrubland
53](#cegl002698artemisia-nova-poa-fendleriana-shrubland)

[CEGL001423--*Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* Shrubland
53](#cegl001423artemisia-nova-poa-secunda-shrubland)

[CEGL001424--*Artemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland
55](#cegl001424artemisia-nova-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrubland)

[CEGL001417--*Artemisia nova* Shrubland
56](#cegl001417artemisia-nova-shrubland)

[A.2606--*Artemisia pycnocephala* Shrubland Alliance
57](#a.2606artemisia-pycnocephala-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL003182--*Artemisia pycnocephala - Cardionema ramosissimum*
Shrubland
57](#cegl003182artemisia-pycnocephala---cardionema-ramosissimum-shrubland)

[A.830--*Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
Shrubland Alliance
58](#a.830artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-ssp.-xericensis-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001004--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata - Grayia spinosa*
Shrubland
60](#cegl001004artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata---grayia-spinosa-shrubland)

[CEGL001000--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Distichlis
spicata* Shrubland
61](#cegl001000artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-distichlis-spicata-shrubland)

[CEGL001014--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Festuca
idahoensis* Shrubland
62](#cegl001014artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-festuca-idahoensis-shrubland)

[CEGL002966--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Hesperostipa
comata* Shrubland
62](#cegl002966artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-hesperostipa-comata-shrubland)

[CEGL001016--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Leymus cinereus*
Shrubland
63](#cegl001016artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-leymus-cinereus-shrubland)

[CEGL001017--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Pascopyrum
smithii - (Elymus lanceolatus)* Shrubland
64](#cegl001017artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-pascopyrum-smithii---elymus-lanceolatus-shrubland)

[CEGL001015--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Pleuraphis
jamesii* Shrubland
66](#cegl001015artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-pleuraphis-jamesii-shrubland)

[CEGL001008--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Poa secunda*
Shrubland
67](#cegl001008artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-poa-secunda-shrubland)

[A.829--*Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance
67](#a.829artemisia-tridentata-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002699--*Artemisia tridentata - (Ericameria nauseosa) / Bromus
tectorum* Semi-natural Shrubland
69](#cegl002699artemisia-tridentata---ericameria-nauseosa-bromus-tectorum-semi-natural-shrubland)

[CEGL001006--*Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland
69](#cegl001006artemisia-tridentata-achnatherum-hymenoides-shrubland)

[CEGL001011--*Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum lettermanii* Shrubland
70](#cegl001011artemisia-tridentata-achnatherum-lettermanii-shrubland)

[CEGL000997--*Artemisia tridentata / Bouteloua gracilis - Pascopyrum
smithii* Shrubland
71](#cegl000997artemisia-tridentata-bouteloua-gracilis---pascopyrum-smithii-shrubland)

[CEGL000996--*Artemisia tridentata / Bouteloua gracilis - Pleuraphis
jamesii* Shrubland
72](#cegl000996artemisia-tridentata-bouteloua-gracilis---pleuraphis-jamesii-shrubland)

[CEGL000995--*Artemisia tridentata / Bouteloua gracilis* Shrubland
72](#cegl000995artemisia-tridentata-bouteloua-gracilis-shrubland)

[CEGL000999--*Artemisia tridentata / Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus / Poa
secunda* Shrubland
74](#cegl000999artemisia-tridentata-chrysothamnus-viscidiflorus-poa-secunda-shrubland)

[CEGL001001--*Artemisia tridentata / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland
74](#cegl001001artemisia-tridentata-elymus-elymoides-shrubland)

[CEGL000998--*Artemisia tridentata / Ericameria nauseosa* Shrubland
75](#cegl000998artemisia-tridentata-ericameria-nauseosa-shrubland)

[CEGL001005--*Artemisia tridentata / Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland
76](#cegl001005artemisia-tridentata-pleuraphis-jamesii-shrubland)

[CEGL001012--*Artemisia tridentata / Symphoricarpos longiflorus*
Shrubland
76](#cegl001012artemisia-tridentata-symphoricarpos-longiflorus-shrubland)

[CEGL000991--*Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland
77](#cegl000991artemisia-tridentata-shrubland)

[CEGL001013--*Artemisia tridentata* Upperzone Community Shrubland
78](#cegl001013artemisia-tridentata-upperzone-community-shrubland)

[A.2550--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrubland Alliance
79](#a.2550artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-spiciformis-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002989--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis / Bromus
carinatus* Shrubland
80](#cegl002989artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-spiciformis-bromus-carinatus-shrubland)

[CEGL002990--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis / Carex geyeri*
Shrubland
80](#cegl002990artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-spiciformis-carex-geyeri-shrubland)

[A.831--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance
81](#a.831artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL005827--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - (Purshia
tridentata) / Muhlenbergia montana - (Hesperostipa comata* ssp.
*comata)* Shrubland
83](#cegl005827artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---purshia-tridentata-muhlenbergia-montana---hesperostipa-comata-ssp.-comata-shrubland)

[CEGL001032--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Purshia tridentata
/ Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland
84](#cegl001032artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---purshia-tridentata-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrubland)

[CEGL001035--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos
oreophilus / Bromus carinatus* Shrubland
84](#cegl001035artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---symphoricarpos-oreophilus-bromus-carinatus-shrubland)

[CEGL001034--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos
oreophilus / Elymus trachycaulus* ssp. *trachycaulus* Shrubland
86](#cegl001034artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---symphoricarpos-oreophilus-elymus-trachycaulus-ssp.-trachycaulus-shrubland)

[CEGL001036--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos
oreophilus / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland
86](#cegl001036artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---symphoricarpos-oreophilus-festuca-idahoensis-shrubland)

[CEGL001039--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos
oreophilus / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland
87](#cegl001039artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---symphoricarpos-oreophilus-hesperostipa-comata-shrubland)

[CEGL001037--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos
oreophilus / Poa secunda* Shrubland
88](#cegl001037artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---symphoricarpos-oreophilus-poa-secunda-shrubland)

[CEGL001038--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos
oreophilus / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland
89](#cegl001038artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana---symphoricarpos-oreophilus-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrubland)

[CEGL001033--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Achnatherum
occidentale* Shrubland
90](#cegl001033artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-achnatherum-occidentale-shrubland)

[CEGL001020--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Balsamorhiza
sagittata* Shrubland
91](#cegl001020artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-balsamorhiza-sagittata-shrubland)

[CEGL001021--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Bromus carinatus*
Shrubland
92](#cegl001021artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-bromus-carinatus-shrubland)

[CEGL008651--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Carex exserta*
Shrubland
93](#cegl008651artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-carex-exserta-shrubland)

[CEGL001023--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca
idahoensis - Bromus carinatus* Shrubland
93](#cegl001023artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-festuca-idahoensis---bromus-carinatus-shrubland)

[CEGL001024--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca thurberi*
Shrubland
94](#cegl001024artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-festuca-thurberi-shrubland)

[CEGL002931--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Hesperostipa
comata* Shrubland
95](#cegl002931artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-hesperostipa-comata-shrubland)

[CEGL001026--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leucopoa kingii -
Koeleria macrantha* Shrubland
96](#cegl001026artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-leucopoa-kingii---koeleria-macrantha-shrubland)

[CEGL001025--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leucopoa kingii*
Shrubland
97](#cegl001025artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-leucopoa-kingii-shrubland)

[CEGL001027--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leymus cinereus*
Shrubland
98](#cegl001027artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-leymus-cinereus-shrubland)

[CEGL003476--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Monardella
odoratissima* Shrubland
98](#cegl003476artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-monardella-odoratissima-shrubland)

[CEGL001028--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pascopyrum smithii*
Shrubland
99](#cegl001028artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-pascopyrum-smithii-shrubland)

[CEGL002770--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Phlox condensata*
Shrubland
100](#cegl002770artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-phlox-condensata-shrubland)

[CEGL001029--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Poa secunda*
Shrubland
100](#cegl001029artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-poa-secunda-shrubland)

[CEGL001031--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria
spicata - Poa fendleriana* Shrubland
102](#cegl001031artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-pseudoroegneria-spicata---poa-fendleriana-shrubland)

[CEGL001030--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria
spicata* Shrubland
102](#cegl001030artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrubland)

[A.832--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
104](#a.832artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL000993--*Artemisia tridentata - Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland
106](#cegl000993artemisia-tridentata---atriplex-confertifolia-shrubland)

[CEGL001040--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis - Atriplex
confertifolia* Shrubland
107](#cegl001040artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis---atriplex-confertifolia-shrubland)

[CEGL001048--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis - Peraphyllum
ramosissimum / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland
108](#cegl001048artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis---peraphyllum-ramosissimum-festuca-idahoensis-shrubland)

[CEGL001050--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis - Purshia
tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland
109](#cegl001050artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis---purshia-tridentata-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrubland)

[CEGL001046--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Achnatherum
hymenoides* Shrubland
110](#cegl001046artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-achnatherum-hymenoides-shrubland)

[CEGL001052--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Achnatherum
thurberianum* Shrubland
111](#cegl001052artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-achnatherum-thurberianum-shrubland)

[CEGL000994--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Balsamorhiza
sagittata* Shrubland
112](#cegl000994artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-balsamorhiza-sagittata-shrubland)

[CEGL001041--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Bouteloua
gracilis* Shrubland
112](#cegl001041artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-bouteloua-gracilis-shrubland)

[CEGL001042--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Carex
filifolia* Shrubland
113](#cegl001042artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-carex-filifolia-shrubland)

[CEGL001044--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Elymus
albicans* Shrubland
114](#cegl001044artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-elymus-albicans-shrubland)

[CEGL001043--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Elymus
elymoides* Shrubland
115](#cegl001043artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-elymus-elymoides-shrubland)

[CEGL001051--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Hesperostipa
comata* Shrubland
116](#cegl001051artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-hesperostipa-comata-shrubland)

[CEGL001045--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Leymus
ambiguus* Shrubland
117](#cegl001045artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-leymus-ambiguus-shrubland)

[CEGL001049--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Poa secunda*
Shrubland
118](#cegl001049artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-poa-secunda-shrubland)

[CEGL001009--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria
spicata* Shrubland
119](#cegl001009artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrubland)

[A.828--*Cercocarpus ledifolius* Shrubland Alliance
120](#a.828cercocarpus-ledifolius-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001487--*Artemisia arbuscula - Cercocarpus ledifolius /
Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrubland
121](#cegl001487artemisia-arbuscula---cercocarpus-ledifolius-pseudoroegneria-spicata---poa-secunda-shrubland)

[A.825--*Purshia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance
122](#a.825purshia-tridentata-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL003480--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata - Symphoricarpos
rotundifolius* Shrubland
123](#cegl003480purshia-tridentata---artemisia-tridentata---symphoricarpos-rotundifolius-shrubland)

[CEGL003481--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata - Tetradymia
canescens* Shrubland
124](#cegl003481purshia-tridentata---artemisia-tridentata---tetradymia-canescens-shrubland)

[CEGL003478--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum
hymenoides* Shrubland \[Provisional\]
125](#cegl003478purshia-tridentata---artemisia-tridentata-achnatherum-hymenoides-shrubland-provisional)

[CEGL003479--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum
nelsonii* Shrubland
125](#cegl003479purshia-tridentata---artemisia-tridentata-achnatherum-nelsonii-shrubland)

[CEGL003477--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata / Eriogonum
umbellatum* Shrubland
126](#cegl003477purshia-tridentata---artemisia-tridentata-eriogonum-umbellatum-shrubland)

[CEGL001054--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata* ssp.
*tridentata* Shrubland
127](#cegl001054purshia-tridentata---artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-shrubland)

[CEGL001055--*Purshia tridentata / Artemisia frigida / Hesperostipa
comata* Shrubland
128](#cegl001055purshia-tridentata-artemisia-frigida-hesperostipa-comata-shrubland)

[III.A.4.N.c. Temporarily flooded microphyllous shrubland
129](#iii.a.4.n.c.-temporarily-flooded-microphyllous-shrubland)

[A.843--*Artemisia cana* Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance
129](#a.843artemisia-cana-temporarily-flooded-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001072--*Artemisia cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland
130](#cegl001072artemisia-cana-pascopyrum-smithii-shrubland)

[III.A.5.N.a. Broad-leaved and microphyllous evergreen extremely
xeromorphic subdesert shrubland
132](#iii.a.5.n.a.-broad-leaved-and-microphyllous-evergreen-extremely-xeromorphic-subdesert-shrubland)

[A.1103--*Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance
132](#a.1103artemisia-bigelovii-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL000990--*Artemisia bigelovii / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland
133](#cegl000990artemisia-bigelovii-achnatherum-hymenoides-shrubland)

[CEGL000276--*Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland \[Placeholder\]
134](#cegl000276artemisia-bigelovii-shrubland-placeholder)

[A.1106--*Artemisia pygmaea* Shrubland Alliance
135](#a.1106artemisia-pygmaea-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001436--*Artemisia pygmaea / Elymus elymoides - Achnatherum
hymenoides* Shrubland
136](#cegl001436artemisia-pygmaea-elymus-elymoides---achnatherum-hymenoides-shrubland)

[A.1098--*Artemisia rothrockii* Shrubland Alliance
137](#a.1098artemisia-rothrockii-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL008652--*Artemisia rothrockii / Monardella odoratissima* Shrubland
137](#cegl008652artemisia-rothrockii-monardella-odoratissima-shrubland)

[CEGL003014--*Artemisia rothrockii* Shrubland \[Provisional\]
138](#cegl003014artemisia-rothrockii-shrubland-provisional)

[III.B.2.N.a. Temperate cold-deciduous shrubland
139](#iii.b.2.n.a.-temperate-cold-deciduous-shrubland)

[A.2565--*Artemisia frigida* Shrubland Alliance
139](#a.2565artemisia-frigida-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002782--*Artemisia frigida / Bouteloua gracilis* Shrubland
\[Provisional\]
139](#cegl002782artemisia-frigida-bouteloua-gracilis-shrubland-provisional)

[III.B.3.N.a. Extremely xeromorphic deciduous subdesert shrubland
without succulents
140](#iii.b.3.n.a.-extremely-xeromorphic-deciduous-subdesert-shrubland-without-succulents)

[A.2551--*Artemisia papposa* Shrubland Alliance
140](#a.2551artemisia-papposa-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002991--*Artemisia papposa / Danthonia californica - Festuca
idahoensis* Shrubland
141](#cegl002991artemisia-papposa-danthonia-californica---festuca-idahoensis-shrubland)

[A.1127--*Artemisia pedatifida* Shrubland Alliance
142](#a.1127artemisia-pedatifida-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001525--*Artemisia pedatifida - Atriplex gardneri* Shrubland
143](#cegl001525artemisia-pedatifida---atriplex-gardneri-shrubland)

[CEGL001450--*Artemisia pedatifida / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland
144](#cegl001450artemisia-pedatifida-elymus-elymoides-shrubland)

[CEGL001526--*Artemisia pedatifida / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland
145](#cegl001526artemisia-pedatifida-festuca-idahoensis-shrubland)

[CEGL001451--*Artemisia pedatifida / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland
146](#cegl001451artemisia-pedatifida-pascopyrum-smithii-shrubland)

[CEGL001527--*Artemisia pedatifida / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland
147](#cegl001527artemisia-pedatifida-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrubland)

[A.1038--*Grayia spinosa* Shrubland Alliance
148](#a.1038grayia-spinosa-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL001344--*Grayia spinosa / Artemisia nova / Achnatherum speciosum*
Shrubland
149](#cegl001344grayia-spinosa-artemisia-nova-achnatherum-speciosum-shrubland)

[CEGL001345--*Grayia spinosa / Picrothamnus desertorum* Shrubland
150](#cegl001345grayia-spinosa-picrothamnus-desertorum-shrubland)

[A.1128--*Picrothamnus desertorum* Shrubland Alliance
150](#a.1128picrothamnus-desertorum-shrubland-alliance)

[CEGL002992--*Picrothamnus desertorum / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland
\[Provisional\]
151](#cegl002992picrothamnus-desertorum-elymus-elymoides-shrubland-provisional)

[CEGL001452--*Picrothamnus desertorum* Shrubland
152](#cegl001452picrothamnus-desertorum-shrubland)

[V. Herbaceous Vegetation 153](#v.-herbaceous-vegetation)

[V.A.6.N.f. Medium-tall temperate or subpolar grassland with a sparse
needle-leaved evergreen or mixed tree layer
153](#v.a.6.n.f.-medium-tall-temperate-or-subpolar-grassland-with-a-sparse-needle-leaved-evergreen-or-mixed-tree-layer)

[A.1500--*Juniperus occidentalis* Wooded Herbaceous Alliance
153](#a.1500juniperus-occidentalis-wooded-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001716--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia arbuscula / Festuca
idahoensis* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
154](#cegl001716juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-arbuscula-festuca-idahoensis-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001715--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia arbuscula / Poa
secunda* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
155](#cegl001715juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-arbuscula-poa-secunda-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001717--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia arbuscula /
Pseudoroegneria spicata* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
156](#cegl001717juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-arbuscula-pseudoroegneria-spicata-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001718--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia rigida / Poa secunda*
Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
156](#cegl001718juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-rigida-poa-secunda-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001722--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata - Purshia
tridentata* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
157](#cegl001722juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-tridentata---purshia-tridentata-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001719--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata / Carex
filifolia* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
158](#cegl001719juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-tridentata-carex-filifolia-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001720--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata / Festuca
idahoensis* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
159](#cegl001720juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-tridentata-festuca-idahoensis-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001721--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata /
Pseudoroegneria spicata* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation
160](#cegl001721juniperus-occidentalis-artemisia-tridentata-pseudoroegneria-spicata-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation)

[V.A.7.N.e. Medium-tall temperate or subpolar grassland with a sparse
needle-leaved or microphyllous evergreen shrub layer
161](#v.a.7.n.e.-medium-tall-temperate-or-subpolar-grassland-with-a-sparse-needle-leaved-or-microphyllous-evergreen-shrub-layer)

[A.1566--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
161](#a.1566artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001518--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula - Purshia tridentata
/ Pseudoroegneria spicata - Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation
162](#cegl001518artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula---purshia-tridentata-pseudoroegneria-spicata---festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001413--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Achnatherum
thurberianum* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
163](#cegl001413artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-achnatherum-thurberianum-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001409--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
164](#cegl001409artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001410--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Leymus salinus*
ssp. *salmonis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
165](#cegl001410artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-leymus-salinus-ssp.-salmonis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001411--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Poa secunda* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
166](#cegl001411artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-poa-secunda-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001412--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Pseudoroegneria
spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
167](#cegl001412artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-arbuscula-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.2552--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
168](#a.2552artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longiloba-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001522--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Festuca idahoensis*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
170](#cegl001522artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longiloba-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001415--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Pascopyrum smithii*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
170](#cegl001415artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longiloba-pascopyrum-smithii-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001523--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Poa secunda* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
171](#cegl001523artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longiloba-poa-secunda-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001416--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Pseudoroegneria
spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
172](#cegl001416artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-longiloba-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.2553--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
173](#a.2553artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-thermopola-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001519--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola / Festuca
idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
174](#cegl001519artemisia-arbuscula-ssp.-thermopola-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1531--*Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrub
Herbaceous Alliance
175](#a.1531artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-ssp.-viscidula-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001549--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) -
Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Poa cusickii* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation \[Provisional\]
176](#cegl001549artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-ssp.-viscidula---artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-poa-cusickii-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation-provisional)

[CEGL001551--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) / Poa
fendleriana* ssp. *fendleriana* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
177](#cegl001551artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-ssp.-viscidula-poa-fendleriana-ssp.-fendleriana-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001743--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *bolanderi / Muhlenbergia
richardsonis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
178](#cegl001743artemisia-cana-ssp.-bolanderi-muhlenbergia-richardsonis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001552--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca idahoensis*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
179](#cegl001552artemisia-cana-ssp.-viscidula-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.2554--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
180](#a.2554artemisia-cana-ssp.-cana-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001555--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Calamovilfa longifolia* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
181](#cegl001555artemisia-cana-ssp.-cana-calamovilfa-longifolia-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001553--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
182](#cegl001553artemisia-cana-ssp.-cana-hesperostipa-comata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001556--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
184](#cegl001556artemisia-cana-ssp.-cana-pascopyrum-smithii-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1567--*Artemisia nova* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
185](#a.1567artemisia-nova-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001524--*Artemisia nova / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation
186](#cegl001524artemisia-nova-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001421--*Artemisia nova / Leymus salinus* ssp. *salmonis* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
187](#cegl001421artemisia-nova-leymus-salinus-ssp.-salmonis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1522--*Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
188](#a.1522artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-ssp.-xericensis-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001019--*Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp.
*xericensis) / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation
190](#cegl001019artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-ssp.-xericensis-pseudoroegneria-spicata---poa-secunda-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001018--*Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp.
*xericensis) / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
191](#cegl001018artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-tridentata-ssp.-xericensis-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1521--*Artemisia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
193](#a.1521artemisia-tridentata-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001530--*Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
194](#cegl001530artemisia-tridentata-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001458--*Artemisia tridentata / Leymus cinereus* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation
195](#cegl001458artemisia-tridentata-leymus-cinereus-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.2555--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
196](#a.2555artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-spiciformis-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL002993--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation \[Provisional\]
197](#cegl002993artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-spiciformis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation-provisional)

[A.1526--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
198](#a.1526artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001532--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Carex geyeri* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
200](#cegl001532artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-carex-geyeri-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001531--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca campestris*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
201](#cegl001531artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-festuca-campestris-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001533--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
203](#cegl001533artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-vaseyana-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1527--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
204](#a.1527artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001534--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* / Mixed Grasses
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
206](#cegl001534artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-mixed-grasses-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001047--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pascopyrum
smithii* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
207](#cegl001047artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-pascopyrum-smithii-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001535--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria
spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
208](#cegl001535artemisia-tridentata-ssp.-wyomingensis-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.2556--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *rupicola* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
210](#a.2556artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-rupicola-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001540--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *rupicola / Festuca idahoensis*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
211](#cegl001540artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-rupicola-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1528--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
212](#a.1528artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-tripartita-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001537--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Festuca
campestris* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
213](#cegl001537artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-tripartita-festuca-campestris-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001536--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Festuca
idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
215](#cegl001536artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-tripartita-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001539--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Hesperostipa
comata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
215](#cegl001539artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-tripartita-hesperostipa-comata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL002994--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Leymus cinereus*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
217](#cegl002994artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-tripartita-leymus-cinereus-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001538--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Pseudoroegneria
spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
217](#cegl001538artemisia-tripartita-ssp.-tripartita-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1530--*Muhlenbergia setifolia / Artemisia bigelovii* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance
218](#a.1530muhlenbergia-setifolia-artemisia-bigelovii-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001544--*Artemisia bigelovii / Muhlenbergia setifolia* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
219](#cegl001544artemisia-bigelovii-muhlenbergia-setifolia-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1525--*Sporobolus cryptandrus* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
220](#a.1525sporobolus-cryptandrus-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001545--*Artemisia tridentata / Sporobolus cryptandrus -
Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
221](#cegl001545artemisia-tridentata-sporobolus-cryptandrus---achnatherum-hymenoides-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[V.A.7.N.l. Short temperate or subpolar grassland with a sparse
cold-deciduous shrub layer
222](#v.a.7.n.l.-short-temperate-or-subpolar-grassland-with-a-sparse-cold-deciduous-shrub-layer)

[A.1574--*Artemisia rigida* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
222](#a.1574artemisia-rigida-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL002995--*Artemisia rigida / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation
224](#cegl002995artemisia-rigida-festuca-idahoensis-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001528--*Artemisia rigida / Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation
224](#cegl001528artemisia-rigida-poa-secunda-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[CEGL001529--*Artemisia rigida / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
225](#cegl001529artemisia-rigida-pseudoroegneria-spicata-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[V.A.8.N.a. Short temperate or subpolar lowland grassland with a sparse
needle-leaved or microphyllous dwarf-shrub layer
226](#v.a.8.n.a.-short-temperate-or-subpolar-lowland-grassland-with-a-sparse-needle-leaved-or-microphyllous-dwarf-shrub-layer)

[A.1570--*Bouteloua eriopoda* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance
226](#a.1570bouteloua-eriopoda-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001741--*Artemisia bigelovii / Bouteloua eriopoda* Dwarf-shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
227](#cegl001741artemisia-bigelovii-bouteloua-eriopoda-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1571--*Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance
227](#a.1571bouteloua-gracilis-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001742--*Artemisia bigelovii / Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation
228](#cegl001742artemisia-bigelovii-bouteloua-gracilis-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation)

[V.B.2.N.b. Low temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation
229](#v.b.2.n.b.-low-temperate-or-subpolar-perennial-forb-vegetation)

[A.1624--*Artemisia arctica* Herbaceous Alliance
229](#a.1624artemisia-arctica-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001848--*Artemisia arctica* ssp. *arctica* Herbaceous Vegetation
230](#cegl001848artemisia-arctica-ssp.-arctica-herbaceous-vegetation)

[A.1654--*Sphaeromeria argentea* Herbaceous Alliance
231](#a.1654sphaeromeria-argentea-herbaceous-alliance)

[CEGL001992--*Sphaeromeria argentea - Artemisia frigida - Poa secunda*
Herbaceous Vegetation
231](#cegl001992sphaeromeria-argentea---artemisia-frigida---poa-secunda-herbaceous-vegetation)

[VII. Sparse Vegetation 234](#vii.-sparse-vegetation)

[VII.C.3.N.b. Dry slopes 234](#vii.c.3.n.b.-dry-slopes)

[A.1874--*Artemisia longifolia* Sparsely Vegetated Alliance
234](#a.1874artemisia-longifolia-sparsely-vegetated-alliance)

[CEGL001521--*Artemisia longifolia - Calamovilfa longifolia* Sparse
Vegetation
235](#cegl001521artemisia-longifolia---calamovilfa-longifolia-sparse-vegetation)

[CEGL002195--*Artemisia longifolia* Badlands Sparse Vegetation
236](#cegl002195artemisia-longifolia-badlands-sparse-vegetation)

[Bibliography for Sagebrush Descriptions
238](#bibliography-for-sagebrush-descriptions)

# III. Shrubland

## III.A.4.N.a. Lowland microphyllous evergreen shrubland

### A.2547--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance

### Dwarf Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#dwarf-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This low shrubland alliance is known from southwestern
Idaho, but likely occurs throughout much of the Intermountain West.
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* is the dominant low shrub in
shallow, rocky soils. Stands typically occur on poorly drained soils on
a variety of landforms; from flats and depressions to slopes and ridges.
Soils are usually shallow, rocky clays, often with an impenetrable layer
at less than 60 cm depth. Little information is available on vegetation
included in this alliance except that a low-shrub layer of *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* dominates or codominates it. *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*
codominate some stands in this alliance. Other shrub associates include
*Artemisia nova, Chrysothamnus* spp., *Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia
sarothrae, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus osteosperma, Tetradymia
canescens*, and *Purshia tridentata*. The herbaceous layer is generally
sparse. Various perennial graminoids may be present, but with low cover
(\<20% cover). Important grasses include *Festuca idahoensis,
Pseudoroegneria spicata, Elymus elymoides*, and *Poa secunda*. Forb
cover is likely sparse. Diagnostic of this alliance is the *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*-dominated low-shrub layer (or codominated with
\>40% relative shrub cover) that lacks a significant graminoid layer
(\<20% cover perennial graminoids) or has over 40% total shrub cover.

**Classification Comments:** Stands included in this alliance occur in
environments (climate or substrates) that limit the growth of perennial
graminoids or may be the result of heavy livestock grazing depleting the
perennial graminoid layer of stands of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1566). The range of this
alliance is currently restricted to Idaho. More survey and
classification work are needed to fully describe this alliance; both of
the associations in the alliance are newly proposed types, and also need
further documentation.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1566)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance (A.2548)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2552)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance (A.2549)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2553)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other *Artemisia arbuscula* alliances by the nominal
subspecies of *Artemisia arbuscula* and by the lack of a significant
perennial graminoid layer (\<20% cover) in the shrubland alliances. The
*Artemisia arbuscula* subspecies are distinguished by the nominal
subspecies taxonomically and by different environments which they
occupy. The *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* Shrubland Alliance
(A.2549) occurs in more alkali and less stony settings than the
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547).
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.2553)
occurs in more calcareous soils and has a restricted distribution.
Beetle and Johnson (1982) report that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
arbuscula* grows in soils with a high volume of gravel (even though soil
may be in clay textural class, or contain a clay-rich layer that impedes
drainage), and that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* grows in clay
soils, often alkaline, that contain no gravels.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Low sagebrush series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   SRM Cover Type #406 - Low Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance occurs in the Owyhee Uplands in
southwestern Idaho, but is likely more widespread in the Intermountain
West. Climate is semi-arid with a large proportion of the precipitation
falling as winter snow. Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995) report *Artemisia
arbuscula* shrublands to be associated with flats, depressions, slopes,
and ridges, and that soils are either very shallow or quite poorly
drained. Soils are usually shallow, rocky clays, often with an
impenetrable clay layer at less than 60 cm depth. Poor drainage often
leads to elevated water tables in the spring, which may control the
distribution of the vegetation in this alliance. Poor drainage may
explain the occurrence of patches of *Artemisia arbuscula* Shrublands in
*Pinus ponderosa* woodlands or *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands. In
alpine settings, the vegetation may occur in xeric sites where snow
cover is blown off or lost to sublimation. This low shrubland may also
be adjacent to *Juniperus* or *Pinus* woodlands, *Artemisia nova*
shrublands, *Cercocarpus ledifolius* woodlands, or alpine fell-fields.
Beetle and Johnson (1982) report that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
arbuscula* grows in soils with a high volume of gravel (even though soil
may be in clay textural class, or contain a clay-rich layer that impedes
drainage), and that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* grows in clay
soils, often alkaline, that contain no gravels.

**Vegetation:** This shrubland alliance is not well described, occurring
in Idaho and likely elsewhere in the Interior West. Little information
is available on vegetation included in this alliance except that a
low-shrub layer of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* dominates or
codominates it. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* or *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana* codominate some stands in this alliance. Other
shrub associates include *Artemisia nova, Chrysothamnus* spp., *Ephedra
viridis, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus
osteosperma, Tetradymia canescens*, and *Purshia tridentata*. The
herbaceous layer is generally sparse. Various perennial graminoids may
be present, but with low cover (\<20% cover). Important grasses include
*Festuca idahoensis, Pseudoroegneria spicata, Elymus elymoides*, and
*Poa secunda*. Forb cover is likely sparse. Diagnostic of this alliance
is the *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*-dominated low-shrub layer
(or codominated with \>40% relative shrub cover) that lacks a
significant graminoid layer (\<20% cover perennial graminoids) or has
over 40% total shrub cover.

**Dynamics:** Due to the low-shrub stature of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
arbuscula*, this shrubland alliance is less susceptible to natural fire
than taller *Artemisia* spp. shrublands. Grazing appears to have little
effect on shrub densities, but tends to decrease the importance of tall
bunch grasses and increase the cover of *Chrysothamnus* spp., forbs, and
non-native perennial grasses (*Poa bulbosa* and *Poa pratensis*).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is described from southwestern Idaho, but
likely occurs elsewhere in the western U.S. within the distributions
range of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, ID

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:?, 342C:CC, M261E:CC, M331:?, M332:?

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Barrows et al. 1977, Beetle and Johnson 1982, Lewis
1975a, McArthur and Welch 1986, Mozingo 1987, Rust et al. unpubl. data
2002, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Shiflet 1994, Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL002982--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula - Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland \[Provisional\]

#### Dwarf Sagebrush - Mountain Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#dwarf-sagebrush---mountain-big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Rust et al. unpubl. data 2002, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL002983--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula - Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland \[Provisional\]

#### Dwarf Sagebrush - Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#dwarf-sagebrush---wyoming-big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-1 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Rust et al. unpubl. data 2002, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL003483--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Eriogonum microthecum* Shrubland

#### Dwarf Sagebrush / Slender Wild Buckwheat Shrubland {#dwarf-sagebrush-slender-wild-buckwheat-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-2 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G3 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:** Stands of this alliance are known from many locations in
the western United States, but this association may be localized in
trans-Sierran California.

**Ranking Author:** T. Keeler-Wolf **Version:** 1-Apr-2003

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003482--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Leptodactylon pungens* Shrubland

#### Dwarf Sagebrush / Granite Prickly-phlox Shrubland {#dwarf-sagebrush-granite-prickly-phlox-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-3 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association prefers dry slopes and summits on
talus or shallow soils between 5900-11,800 feet of elevation.

**Vegetation:** This association has scattered shrubs emergent over an
open ground layer composed of subshrubs, forbs, and graminoids. The
canopy is less than 1 meter in height. *Artemisia arbuscula* is an
important to dominant species. The subshrubs *Ericameria discoidea,
Leptodactylon pungens*, and/or *Ribes cereum* may also be present along
with the forb *Ipomopsis congesta*. Other common associates may include
*Vaccinium caespitosum, Phlox pulvinata, Carex congdonii, Danthonia
unispicata, Arabis lemmonii, Podistera nevadensis, Calamagrostis
purpurascens, Holodiscus discolor, Sambucus racemosa, Artemisia
rothrockii*, and/or *Stenotus acaulis*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** T. Keeler-Wolf **Version:** 3-Jan-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Similar associations are known from the subalpine regions of
the Cascades, Warner Mountains, White, Inyo, and Sweetwater ranges in
addition to the Sierra Nevada.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.2548--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance

### Lahontan Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#lahontan-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland alliance is known from cold, dry areas of
the Intermountain West, in and around the Lahontan Basin of northwestern
Nevada, southeastern Oregon, and northeastern California. Stands occur
on alluvial fans, upland slopes and ridges. Soils are generally shallow
and rocky. The vegetation included in this alliance is dominated by a
low-shrub layer that averages more than 5% cover of *Artemisia arbuscula
ssp. longicaulis*. Little is know about this alliance, but shrub
associates could presumably include *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis, Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula, Atriplex
confertifolia, Chrysothamnus* spp., *Ephedra* spp., *Ericameria* spp.,
*Grayia spinosa, Lycium shockleyi, Picrothamnus desertorum, Sarcobatus
vermiculatus (= var. baileyi)*, and *Tetradymia* spp. The herbaceous
layer is typically sparse, and perennial bunch grasses may include
*Achnatherum hymenoides, Achnatherum speciosum (= Stipa speciosa),
Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana), Elymus elymoides*, and
*Poa secunda*. Forb cover is likely sparse. Diagnostic of this alliance
is the *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longicaulis*-dominated shrub layer that
has over 5% cover of the nominal species that contributes at least 40%
of the total shrub cover.

**Classification Comments:** More survey and classification work is
needed to fully describe this alliance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1566)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2552)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance (A.2549)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2553)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Although the diagnostic taxon for this
alliance is a subspecies of *Artemisia arbuscula*, the taller stature of
this subspecies (generally 0.5-1 m tall) likely results in ecological
function more similar to that of the *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance (A.832).

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #406 - Low Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This shrubland alliance is known from cold, dry areas
of the Intermountain West. Stands typically occur on alluvial fans,
upland slopes and ridges from 1000-2000 m elevation. Precipitation
ranges from 17-35 cm annually, with a large proportion falling as winter
snow. The range of the subspecies corresponds strongly to the pluvial
Lake Lahontan. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longicaulis* occurs primarily
on Aridisols and Mollisols that are generally shallow and rocky. This
alliance may also be adjacent to alliances of other *Artemisia* species,
*Juniperus - Pinus* woodlands, or various forms of salt desert scrub
(e.g., *Atriplex confertifolia* alliances).

**Vegetation:** The information for this alliance comes entirely from
the description of the subspecies (Winward and McArthur 1995) and is
very scanty. They provide the range of the subspecies, a number of
frequent associates, and state that it often occurs in pure stands.
Shrub associates could presumably include *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis, Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula, Atriplex
confertifolia, Chrysothamnus* spp., *Ephedra* spp., *Ericameria* spp.,
*Grayia spinosa, Lycium shockleyi, Picrothamnus desertorum, Sarcobatus
vermiculatus (= var. baileyi)*, and *Tetradymia* spp. The herbaceous
layer is likely sparse, and the perennial bunchgrasses may include
*Achnatherum hymenoides, Achnatherum speciosum (= Stipa speciosa),
Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana), Elymus elymoides*, and
*Poa secunda*. Forb cover is likely sparse. Diagnostic of this alliance
is the *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longicaulis*-dominated shrub layer that
has over 5% cover of the nominal species that contributes at least 40%
of the total shrub cover.

**Dynamics:** Heavy grazing by livestock and other ground disturbance
may increase the abundances of introduced annual grasses. Burning may
result in conversion to *Bromus tectorum* Annual Grassland.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The diagnostic taxon for this alliance is known to occur in
and around the Lahontan Basin in northwestern Nevada, southeastern
Oregon, and northeastern California. The subspecies likely dominates the
vegetation, forming this alliance, in all three states.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV, OR?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:P, 11:C, 17:?

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341D:CP, 341E:CC, 342B:CC, M261G:PP

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Shiflet 1994, Winward and McArthur 1995

#### CEGL002984--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis - Grayia spinosa* Shrubland

#### Lahontan Sagebrush - Spiny Hop-sage Shrubland {#lahontan-sagebrush---spiny-hop-sage-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-4 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.: Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland association is characterized by codominance
of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longicaulis* and *Grayia spinosa*. It has
been observed on upper alluvial fans coming out of the Virginia Range on
the east side of Reno, Nevada. The vegetation included abundant *Bromus
tectorum*, which may be included in the association name to distinguish
this from a similar, likely association with *Elymus elymoides*
dominating a graminoid layer. Even in the degraded shrubland where this
has been observed, mosses had substantial ground cover under and
immediately surrounding many of the shrubs.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:** It is probably very abundant, but in poor condition and
being rapidly reduced by development.

**Ranking Author:** E. Peterson **Version:** 15-Apr-2002

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** It has been observed on upper alluvial fans coming out of the
Virginia Range on the east side of Reno, Nevada.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S4, OR?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341D:CP, 341E:CP, 342B:CC, M261G:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Peterson pers. comm., Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002985--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis / Bromus tectorum* Semi-natural Shrubland

#### Lahontan Sagebrush / Cheatgrass Semi-natural Shrubland {#lahontan-sagebrush-cheatgrass-semi-natural-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-5 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.: Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland association is a severely degraded form of
potentially several associations within the alliance. It is
characterized by a shrub layer dominated by *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longicaulis* and a graminoid layer completely converted to *Bromus
tectorum*, such that the perennial grass that may once have dominated
the graminoid layer can no longer be determined from what little may
remains (in some cases the perennial grass may be determined by
modeling). This shrubland has been observed covering large areas of
alluvial fans coming out of the Virginia Range on the east side of Reno,
Nevada. Even in the degraded shrubland where this has been observed,
mosses had substantial ground cover under and immediately surrounding
many of the shrubs.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNA (invasive) **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** It has been observed on alluvial fans coming out of the
Virginia Range on the east side of Reno, Nevada.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S5, OR?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341D:CP, 341E:CP, 342B:CC, M261G:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Peterson pers. comm., Western Ecology Working Group
n.d., Winward and McArthur 1995

#### CEGL002986--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland

#### Lahontan Sagebrush / Bottlebrush Shrubland {#lahontan-sagebrush-bottlebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-6 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.: Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is characterized by a shrub layer
dominated by *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longicaulis* and a grass layer in
which the dominant perennial grass is clearly *Elymus elymoides*. This
association has been observed on steep hillsides just above alluvial
fans coming out of the Virginia Range on the east side of Reno, Nevada.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:** In danger of conversion to *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longicaulis / Bromus tectorum* Semi-natural Shrubland (CEGL002985) (with
ground or herbivory disturbances) or even to *Bromus tectorum* Annual
Grassland (with wildfire).

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:** Recommending G3 due to infrequency and losses by wildfire,
grazing, and development. May warrant even higher ranking.

**Ranking Author:** E. Peterson **Version:** 15-Apr-2002

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association has been observed on steep hillsides just
above alluvial fans coming out of the Virginia Range on the east side of
Reno, Nevada.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S3, OR?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341D:CP, 341E:CP, 342B:CC, M261G:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Peterson pers. comm., Western Ecology Working Group
n.d., Winward and McArthur 1995

### A.2549--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance

### Alkali Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#alkali-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** The *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* Shrubland Alliance
(A.2549) occurs in Nevada, but is likely fairly widespread in the
Intermountain West, the southern Rocky Mountains and in the western
Great Plains. Stands are found on a variety of landforms; from flats and
depressions to alluvial fans and hillslopes and ridges. Soils are
generally characterized by a heavy clay subsoil occurring within 25 cm
of the soil surface, which restricts rooting depth. Soils are also
alkali and calcareous. Little information is available on vegetation
included in this alliance except that it is dominated by a low-shrub
layer of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba*. Shrub associates are not
specified, but presumably include *Artemisia tridentata, Artemisia
tripartita, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, and
*Purshia tridentata*. The herbaceous layer is generally sparse. Various
perennial graminoids may be present, but with low cover (\<20% cover).
Important grasses include *Festuca idahoensis, Pseudoroegneria spicata,
Elymus elymoides*, and *Poa secunda*. Forb cover is likely sparse.
Diagnostic of this alliance is the *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longiloba*-dominated low-shrub layer (or codominated with \>40% relative
shrub cover of the nominal species) and lacks a significant graminoid
layer (\<20% cover perennial graminoids) or has over 40% total shrub
cover.

**Classification Comments:** Stands included in this alliance occur in
environments (climate or substrates) that limit the growth of perennial
graminoids or may be the result of heavy livestock grazing depleting the
perennial graminoid layer of stands of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.2552). The range of this
association is currently restricted to Nevada. More survey and
classification work is needed to fully describe the range of this
alliance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1566)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance (A.2548)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2552)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2553)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other *Artemisia arbuscula* alliances by the nominal
subspecies of *Artemisia arbuscula* and by the lack of a significant
perennial graminoid layer (\<20% cover) in the shrubland alliances. The
*Artemisia arbuscula* subspecies are distinguished by the nominal
subspecies taxonomically and by different environments which they
occupy. The *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance (A.2552) occurs in more alkali and less stony settings than the
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547).
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.2553)
occurs in more calcareous soils and has a restricted distribution.
Beetle and Johnson (1982) report that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
arbuscula* grows in soils with a high volume of gravel (even though soil
may be in clay textural class, or contain a clay-rich layer that impedes
drainage), and that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* grows in clay
soils, often alkaline, that contain no gravels.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #406 - Low Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is found in Nevada, but is likely fairly
widespread in the Intermountain West, into the southern Rocky Mountains
and in the western Great Plains. Climate is semi-arid with a large
proportion of the precipitation falling as winter snow. Soils are
generally shallow, characterized by a heavy clay subsoil occurring
within 25 cm of the soil surface, which restricts rooting depth. Soils
are also alkaline and calcareous. Beetle and Johnson (1982) report that
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* grows in soils with a high volume
of gravel (even though soil may be in clay textural class, or contain a
clay-rich layer that impedes drainage), and that *Artemisia arbuscula
ssp. longiloba* grows in clay soils, often alkaline, that contain no
gravels.

**Vegetation:** This shrubland alliance occurs in the Great Basin and
likely elsewhere in the western U.S. Little information is available on
vegetation included in this alliance except that it is dominated by a
low-shrub layer of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba*. Shrub
associates are not specified, but presumably include *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana,
Artemisia tripartita, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Gutierrezia
sarothrae*, and *Purshia tridentata*. The herbaceous layer is generally
sparse. Various perennial graminoids may be present, but with low cover
(\<20% cover). Common grasses may include *Achnatherum hymenoides (=
Oryzopsis hymenoides), Danthonia parryi, Elymus elymoides, Festuca
idahoensis, Festuca thurberi, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata),
Koeleria macrantha*, or *Pseudoroegneria spicata*. Forb cover is likely
sparse. Diagnostic of this alliance is the *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longiloba*-dominated low-shrub layer (or codominated with \>40% relative
shrub cover of the nominal species) and lacks a significant graminoid
layer (\<20% cover perennial graminoids) or has over 40% total shrub
cover.

**Dynamics:** Due to the low-shrub stature of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longiloba* and the moist nature of the sites, this shrubland alliance is
less susceptible to natural fire than taller *Artemisia* spp.
shrublands. Grazing appears to have little effect on shrub densities,
but tends to decrease the importance of tall bunch grasses and increase
the cover of *Arenaria congesta* (Johnston 2001).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance occurs in Nevada, but is likely fairly
widespread in the western United States within the distributional range
of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba*.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331H:??, 331I:??, 332E:??, 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:C?

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Beetle and Johnson 1982, Cooper et al. 1999, Hironaka et
al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1992, Johnston 2001, Lewis 1975a, Schlatterer
1972, Shiflet 1994

#### CEGL001414--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland

#### Alkali Sagebrush Shrubland {#alkali-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-7 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia longiloba* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S4S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Lewis 1975a, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.813--*Artemisia californica - Eriogonum fasciculatum* Shrubland Alliance

### Coast Sagebrush - California Wild Buckwheat Shrubland Alliance {#coast-sagebrush---california-wild-buckwheat-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Latin America, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is one expression of California coastal sage
scrub. Stands grow on steep, south-facing slopes from 250-950 m
elevation. Stands of this alliance are subject to long, dry summers and
typically grow on sites with low moisture availability. Precipitation
averages about 35 cm per year, and falls as rain predominantly between
November and April. Some species are relatively inactive during the
summer, while others are facultatively drought-deciduous. *Artemisia
californica* and *Eriogonum fasciculatum* are the important shrubs in
the canopy of this shrubland alliance. Other shrubs present may include
*Adenostoma fasciculatum, Yucca whipplei, Lotus scoparius, Diplacus
aurantiacus ssp. aurantiacus, Rhus ovata, Malosma laurina*, and *Salvia
apiana*. The herbaceous layer is variable.

**Classification Comments:** *Artemisia californica* and *Eriogonum
fasciculatum* are equally important in stands of this alliance.
California has plot data which define some associations.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia californica* Shrubland Alliance (A.815)

-   *Encelia californica* Shrubland Alliance (A.772)

-   *Eriogonum fasciculatum* Shrubland Alliance (A.868)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is codominated by
*Artemisia californica* and *Eriogonum fasciculatum*. If either plant
dominates (\>60% cover), the stand belongs to the alliance of the
dominant species.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Diegan Coastal Sage Scrub (#32500) (Holland 1986b) I

-   Riversidian Upland Sage Scrub (Holland 1986b) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is one expression of California coastal
sage scrub. Stands grow on steep, south-facing slopes from 250-950 m
elevation. Stands of this alliance are subject to long, dry summers and
typically grow on sites with low moisture availability. Some species are
relatively inactive during the summer, while others are facultatively
drought-deciduous. Precipitation averages about 35 cm per year, and
falls as rain predominantly between November and April.

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia californica* and *Eriogonum fasciculatum* are
the important shrubs in the canopy of this shrubland alliance. Other
shrubs present may include *Adenostoma fasciculatum, Yucca whipplei,
Lotus scoparius, Diplacus aurantiacus ssp. aurantiacus, Rhus ovata,
Malosma laurina*, and *Salvia apiana*. The herbaceous layer is variable.

**Dynamics:** Some plants in this alliance have adapted to hot, dry
summers by becoming largely inactive during the hottest part of the
year. Fire frequency is fairly high. Plants may crown-sprout after a
burn.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found on California\'s inner southern coast
and inland along the base of the Transverse and Peninsular ranges
extending south into Baja California, Mexico.

**Nations:** MX, US

**Subnations:** CA, MXBC?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 17:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M262B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Holland 1986b, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

#### CEGL003011--*Artemisia californica - Eriogonum fasciculatum* Shrubland \[Placeholder\]

#### Coast Sagebrush - California Wild Buckwheat Shrubland {#coast-sagebrush---california-wild-buckwheat-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-8 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Latin America, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Dec-1997

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** MX?, US

**Subnations:** CA:S3, MXBC?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 17:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M262B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

### A.814--*Artemisia californica - Salvia mellifera* Shrubland Alliance

### Coast Sagebrush - Black Sage Shrubland Alliance {#coast-sagebrush---black-sage-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is one of the more xeric expressions of the
coastal sage scrub alliances. Growing on steep, south-facing slopes in
the inland portions of cismontane southern California, stands of this
alliance are subject to long, hot, dry summers. Precipitation averages
about 30 cm per year, and falls as rain predominantly between November
and April. *Salvia mellifera* and *Artemisia californica* are codominant
in this shrubland. Other shrubs present may include *Eriogonum
fasciculatum, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Yucca whipplei, Lotus scoparius,
Rhus integrifolia, Rhus ovata*, and *Salvia apiana*. The herbaceous
layer is highly variable.

**Classification Comments:** *Artemisia californica* and *Salvia
mellifera* are equally important in stands of this alliance. California
has plot data which define some associations.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia californica* Shrubland Alliance (A.815)

-   *Encelia californica* Shrubland Alliance (A.772)

-   *Salvia mellifera* Shrubland Alliance (A.749)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** *Artemisia californica* and *Salvia
mellifera* are equally important in stands of the *Artemisia
californica - Salvia mellifera* Shrubland Alliance (A.814). If either
plant dominates (with more than 60% cover), the stand belongs to the
alliance of the dominant species.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Coastal Sage Scrub (Cheatham and Haller 1975) I

-   Riversidian Sage Scrub (Holland 1986b) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is one of the more xeric expressions of
the coastal sage scrub alliances. Growing on steep, south-facing slopes
in the inland portions of cismontane southern California, stands of this
alliance are subject to long, hot, dry summers. Precipitation averages
about 30 cm per year, and falls as rain predominantly between November
and April.

**Vegetation:** *Salvia mellifera* and *Artemisia californica* are
codominant in this xeric California shrubland alliance. Other shrubs
present may include *Eriogonum fasciculatum, Adenostoma fasciculatum,
Yucca whipplei, Lotus scoparius, Rhus integrifolia, Rhus ovata*, and
*Salvia apiana*. The herbaceous layer is highly variable.

**Dynamics:** This alliance tolerates the very xeric conditions of
south-facing slopes and excessively drained soils, or clays that release
stored water very slowly. Fire frequency is relatively high, and may
fire may be a important for stand regeneration.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found on slopes of California\'s southern
coast and inland along the base of the Transverse and Peninsular ranges.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 261B:CC, M262B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Cheatham and Haller 1975, Holland 1986b, Sawyer and
Keeler-Wolf 1995

#### CEGL003012--*Artemisia californica - Salvia mellifera* Shrubland \[Placeholder\]

#### Coast Sagebrush - Black Sage Shrubland {#coast-sagebrush---black-sage-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-9 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Dec-1997

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 261B:CC, M262B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

### A.815--*Artemisia californica* Shrubland Alliance

### Coast Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#coast-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Latin America, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is one expression of California coastal sage
scrub. Stands grow on steep, south-facing slopes and on rarely flooded,
low-gradient deposits along streams. Elevations range from sea level to
1200 m. Precipitation averages about 35 cm per year, and falls
predominantly between November and April. Stands of this alliance are
subject to long, dry summers. Some species are relatively inactive
during the summer. *Artemisia californica* is the dominant shrub in the
canopy of this shrubland. Other shrubs present may include *Eriogonum
fasciculatum, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Yucca whipplei, Lotus scoparius,
Rhus integrifolia, Salvia mellifera, Salvia leucophylla, Encelia
farinosa, Encelia californica, Diplacus aurantiacus ssp. aurantiacus,
Keckiella cordifolia, Isocoma menziesii, Baccharis pilularis, Sambucus
mexicana, Toxicodendron diversilobum*, and *Salvia apiana*. The
herbaceous layer is variable.

**Classification Comments:** *Artemisia californica* is the sole or
dominant shrub canopy species (with greater than 60% cover) in stands of
this alliance. California has plot data which define diverse
associations.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia californica - Eriogonum fasciculatum* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.813)

-   *Artemisia californica - Salvia mellifera* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.814)

-   *Salvia mellifera* Shrubland Alliance (A.749)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is dominated by *Artemisia
californica*. *Artemisia californica* and *Salvia mellifera* are equally
important in stands of the *Artemisia californica - Salvia mellifera*
Shrubland Alliance (A.814). If either plant dominates (\>60% cover), the
stand belongs to the alliance of the dominant species.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Central Lucian Coastal Scrub (#32200) (Holland 1986b) I

-   Diablan Sage Scrub (#32600) (Holland 1986b) I

-   Northern Coastal Bluff Scrub (Holland 1986b) I

-   Southern Coastal Bluff Scrub (#31200) (Holland 1986b) I

-   Venturan Coastal Sage Scrub (#32300) (Holland 1986b) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is one expression of California coastal
sage scrub. Stands grow on steep, south-facing slopes and on rarely
flooded, low-gradient deposits along streams. Elevations range from sea
level to 1200 m. Stands of this alliance are subject to long, dry
summers. Some species are relatively inactive during the summer.
Precipitation averages about 35 cm per year, and falls predominantly
between November and April.

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia californica* is the dominant shrub in the
canopy of this California shrubland alliance. Other shrubs present may
include *Eriogonum fasciculatum, Adenostoma fasciculatum, Yucca
whipplei, Lotus scoparius, Rhus integrifolia, Salvia mellifera, Salvia
leucophylla, Encelia farinosa, Encelia californica, Diplacus aurantiacus
ssp. aurantiacus, Keckiella cordifolia, Isocoma menziesii, Baccharis
pilularis, Sambucus mexicana, Toxicodendron diversilobum*, and *Salvia
apiana*. The herbaceous layer is variable.

**Dynamics:** Plants of this alliance have adapted to hot, dry summers
by becoming largely inactive during the hottest part of the year. Fire
frequency is fairly high, and species in this alliance have adapted by
crown-sprouting after a burn.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found on California\'s southern coast and
Channel Islands, and inland along the base of the Transverse and
Peninsular ranges, extending south into Baja California, Mexico.

**Nations:** MX, US

**Subnations:** CA, MXBC?

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 261A:CC, 261B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Holland 1986b, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

#### CEGL003013--*Artemisia californica* Shrubland \[Placeholder\]

#### Coast Sagebrush Shrubland {#coast-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-10 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Latin America, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Dec-1997

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** MX?, US

**Subnations:** CA:S3, MXBC?

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 261A:CC, 261B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

### A.2557--*Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrubland Alliance

### (Bolander Silver Sagebrush, Mountain Silver Sagebrush) Shrubland Alliance {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mountain-silver-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Southeast, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance occurs throughout the northern half of the
Intermountain West in relatively moist environments, including alkaline
or saline playa lakes. Stands are characterized by an open to closed,
medium-tall shrub canopy of *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* or
*Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi*. The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1.5 m
tall, and shrub canopy cover ranges from 10-60%. In most stands,
*Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* or *Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi* is
the only dominant shrub, although other shrubs can be present.
Herbaceous cover can be abundant to very sparse, but perennial
graminoids generally total less than 20% cover. Species include *Festuca
idahoensis, Festuca thurberi, Festuca ovina, Elymus elymoides,
Deschampsia caespitosa, Poa secunda (= Poa nevadensis), Poa cusickii,
Muhlenbergia richardsonis, Leymus cinereus, Eleocharis palustris*, and
*Danthonia intermedia*.

**Classification Comments:** There are taxonomic problems with the
subspecies of *Artemisia cana*. For example, according to Kartesz
(1999), the subspecies *bolanderi* is not reported to occur in Oregon,
but is reported to occur by the Oregon Natural Heritage Program. Thus
the distribution of this Alliance is subject to change as updated
information becomes available.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1531)

-   *Artemisia cana* Shrubland Alliance (A.827)

-   *Artemisia cana* Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance (A.843)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Vegetation in this alliance is
distinguished from the *Artemisia cana (ssp. bolanderi, ssp. viscidula*)
Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1531) by the lesser importance of graminoid
cover (generally \<20%) and significant cover of shrubs (generally
\>40%). Nearly all *Artemisia cana* communities are azonal (*sensu*
Daubenmire 1970) and are associated with sites of above normal soil
moisture.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #408 - Other Sagebrush Types (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Plant associations in this alliance occur throughout
the northern half of the Intermountain West, usually at middle
elevations (1000-2500 (occasionally to 3000) m). Soils range from those
with a seasonally high water table along low-gradient streams, in broad
valleys, in and around playas (internally drained basins with seasonal
flooding), to shallow or moderately deep fine-textured alluvium or loess
soils typically overlaying flow-basalt bedrock, to cold, deep soils in
moist subalpine meadows. The alliance may represent the driest extreme
of wetland and riparian vegetation. High-elevation stands of the
alliance are associated with upland habitats and occur on more favorable
soils. These shrublands can occur in perennially moist, semi-alkaline,
playa lakebeds above 1065 m. 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. Precipitation varies across the range, from less than 25 cm in
semi-arid basins of the western Great Basin, to over 90 cm in moister
meadow habitats of the Sierra Nevada and northern Rocky Mountains.
Adjacent vegetation varies from *Pinus contorta* forests in the
mountains, to *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands in semi-arid basins and
plains, to *Salix* spp. shrublands on terraces above riparian habitats.

**Vegetation:** Stands of the alliance are characterized by an open to
closed, medium-tall shrub canopy of *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* or
*Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi*. The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1.5 m
tall and shrub canopy cover ranges from 10-60%. In most stands,
*Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* or *Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi* is
the only dominant shrub, although other shrubs can be present.
Herbaceous cover can be abundant to very sparse, but perennial
graminoids generally total less than 20% cover. *Artemisia tridentata*
is the most consistent associate shrub species across the range of this
alliance, and at higher elevations *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*
is occasionally present. Other shrubs may be common, including
*Symphoricarpos occidentalis, Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Artemisia
frigida, Rosa woodsii, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, or *Purshia tridentata*.
In alkaline habitats *Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Atriplex canescens*, or
*Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)* may be present. The
herbaceous layer is usually well represented, but bare ground may be
common in particularly arid or disturbed stands. Graminoids that can be
abundant include *Festuca idahoensis, Festuca thurberi, Festuca ovina,
Elymus elymoides, Deschampsia caespitosa, Poa secunda (= Poa
nevadensis), Poa cusickii, Muhlenbergia richardsonis, Leymus cinereus,
Eleocharis palustris*, and *Danthonia intermedia*. Common exotic grass
species include *Poa pratensis* and *Agrostis stolonifera*. Forbs can be
important, including *Achillea millefolium, Potentilla gracilis, Conyza
canadensis, Hymenoxys hoopesii (= Helenium hoopesii), Fragaria
virginiana, Artemisia ludoviciana, Linum perenne, Trifolium* spp.,
*Arnica* spp., *Epilobium brachycarpum, Gnaphalium palustre, Perideridia
gairdneri ssp. borealis (= Perideridia montana), Navarretia intertexta,
Madia gracilis, Astragalus* spp., *Orthocarpus* ssp., and *Rorippa* spp.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* and *Artemisia cana ssp.
bolanderi* both resprout vigorously after fire, and prescribed burning
may increase shrub cover. Conversely, fire in the fall may decrease
shrub abundance (Hansen et al. 1995). These highly productive sites
often attract heavy livestock use. Livestock grazing may shift the
understory composition to increased abundance of early seral species
such as *Achillea millefolium, Iris missouriensis, Potentilla gracilis*,
or *Taraxacum officinale* and result in reduced abundance of native
bunch grass species such as *Poa secunda, Poa cusickii*, or *Festuca
idahoensis*. Comparisons of grazed and protected (ungrazed) floodplain
sites showed a tendency for *Artemisia cana* to occur more commonly in
grazed than ungrazed sites with similar groundwater hydrology.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found west of the Continental Divide from
the Rocky Mountains across the Great Basin to the Sierra Nevada and
Cascade Range. Associations dominated by *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula*
occur mostly along streams or in areas with heavy snowpack. Associations
dominated by *Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi* occur mainly in the Sierra
Nevada and Cascade Range, commonly in internally drained basins with
poor drainage and/or alkaline conditions.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, CO, ID, MT, NV?, OR, UT, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:P, 11:C, 12:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:PP, 341A:PP, 341B:PP, 342B:CC, 342C:CC,
342E:CP, 342F:CP, 342G:CP, M261E:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331E:CP,
M331I:CP, M331J:CP, M332A:CC, M332D:CP, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC,
M341C:CP

**Federal Lands:** BLM (Foster Flat RNA); NPS (Grand Teton, Yosemite);
USFS (Arapaho, Gunnison, Routt)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Chappell et al. 1997, Cunningham
1971, Daubenmire 1970, Faber-Langendoen et al. 1996, Francis 1983,
Hansen et al. 1995, Hess 1981, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jankovsky-Jones et
al. 2001, Johnston 1987, Kartesz 1999, Manning and Padgett 1995,
Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Mutz and Graham 1982, Mutz and Queiroz 1983,
ORNHP unpubl. data, Padgett et al. 1988b, Padgett et al. 1989, Reid et
al. 1994, Sarr 1995, Schlatterer 1972, Shiflet 1994, Soil Conservation
Service 1978, Tiedemann et al. 1987, Tuhy 1981, Tuhy and Jensen 1982,
Turner 1969, USFS 1992, Youngblood et al. 1985a

#### CEGL001460--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) / Leymus cinereus* Shrubland

#### (Bolander Silver Sagebrush, Mountain Silver Sagebrush) / Great Basin Lyme Grass Shrubland {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mountain-silver-sagebrush-great-basin-lyme-grass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-11 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid, mod. M. Schindel

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Foothill and Lower Montane Riparian Woodland and
    Shrubland (CES304.045)

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association occurs in a semi-arid region of varied
topography. Average annual precipitation is between 20-40 cm, with
somewhat more at the higher elevations. Occurs in perennially moist,
semi-alkaline, pluvial lakebeds above 3500 feet or montane meadows to
6500 feet. Only a few forb species occur, typically in moist microsites.
These include species of *Astragalus, Orthocarpus* and *Rorippa*. Bare
ground is extensive. *Artemisia cana* and *Leymus cinereus* are
diagnostic species. The 1- to 2-m tall *Artemisia cana* is moderately to
widely spaced in the canopy. The herbaceous layer is dominated by the
widely spaced 2-m tall bunchgrass *Leymus cinereus*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana/Leymus cinereus* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.A.2.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The association occurs in a semi-arid region of varied
topography. Average annual precipitation is between 20-40 cm for much of
the region, with somewhat higher amounts at higher elevations. This
association is found on moist, semi-alkaline flats or valley bottoms
within the sagebrush or western juniper zones of Oregon. Elevations of
these bottomlands can range from 1060 to over 1830 m, but at higher
elevations the association occurs as small patches in montane meadows.
Soils are alkaline, and typically deep, with some movement of water
through the soil layers.

**Vegetation:** Little information is available on the composition of
this association. The 1- to 2-m tall, broad-leaved evergreen shrub
*Artemisia cana* is moderately to widely spaced in the canopy of this
association. The herbaceous layer is dominated by the widely spaced, 1-
to 2-m tall bunchgrass *Leymus cinereus*, which often forms clumps up to
1 m broad. Only a few forb species occur, typically in moist microsites.
These include species of *Astragalus, Orthocarpus*, and *Rorippa*. Bare
ground is extensive.

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid, mod. M. Schindel **Version:**
8-Dec-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1 **GRank Review Date:** 28-Oct-1997

**GReasons:** This association has a naturally restricted distribution,
being found in Oregon\'s Blue and Ochoco mountains and Lake, Harney,
Malheur and Klamath counties, extending south into the northeastern
California counties of Modoc and Lassen. In addition, the association
has been greatly reduced in extent from grazing impacts. Grazing
continues throughout the range of this association. Many of the
remaining occurrences are in poor condition due to grazing.

**Ranking Author:** M. Schindel **Version:** 28-Oct-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This plant association is found in Oregon\'s Blue and Ochoco
mountains and Lake, Harney, Malheur and Klamath counties, extending
south into the northeastern California counties of Modoc and Lassen.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S1?, MT?, NV?, OR:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Cooper et al. 1999,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Grossman et al. 1994, ORNHP unpubl. data, Sawyer
and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002988--*Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula) / Poa pratensis* Semi-natural Shrubland

#### (Bolander Silver Sagebrush, Mountain Silver Sagebrush) / Kentucky Bluegrass Semi-natural Shrubland {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mountain-silver-sagebrush-kentucky-bluegrass-semi-natural-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-12 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association occurs in high mountain valleys, on broad
flat, gently sloping to undulating alluvial outwash fans, first or
second stream terraces, toeslopes or seeps. Elevation ranges from 1445
to 2560 m (4753-8400 feet). It generally occurs as narrow stringers
along stream courses, or in meadows where the water table is near the
surface seasonally. Soils are deep and finely textured, alluvial, often
with mottling, indicating a fluctuating water table at depths of 60-100
cm below the soil surface. *Artemisia cana* is the major short-shrub
component (10-40% canopy cover); other sagebrush species may also be
present in lower abundance such as *Artemisia tridentata* or *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana*. Other shrubs include *Dasiphora fruticosa*
and *Betula nana (= Betula glandulosa)*. The herbaceous cover is sparse
to thick and is generally dominated by *Poa pratensis*. Other herbaceous
species present include *Carex simulata, Juncus balticus, Stipa* spp.,
*Achillea millefolium, Potentilla gracilis, Trifolium* spp., *Taraxacum
officinale*, and *Geranium viscosissimum*. This association is
considered a grazing-induced version of *Artemisia cana / Festuca
idahoensis* in Idaho, Utah, western Wyoming and Montana, or *Artemisia
cana / Deschampsia caespitosa* in northeastern Oregon. It can also be a
grazing-induced type of *Artemisia cana / Pascopyrum smithii* and
*Artemisia cana / Elymus trachycaulus*, also in Montana. Depending on
the degree of disturbance, one may find traces of these native graminoid
species in the undergrowth.

**Classification Comments:** This association may be dominated by
*Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi* or *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula*. Most
of the authors cited refer only to the species, *Artemisia cana*. The
only known reference to *Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi* is from another
type, *Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi / Muhlenbergia richardsonis*
Habitat Type (Hironaka et al. 1983), which mentions *Poa nevadensis (=
Poa secunda)* as a common understory component, but makes no reference
to *Poa pratensis*. Svalberg et al. (1997) and Tart (1997) are cited for
this type but were unavailable for analysis.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana / Festuca idahoensis* Community Type (Hansen et
    al. 1995) B

-   *Artemisia cana / Festuca idahoensis* Community Type (Tuhy and
    Jensen 1982) B

-   *Artemisia cana / Poa pratensis* Community Type (Youngblood et al.
    1985a) =

-   *Artemisia cana / Poa pratensis* Community Type (Padgett et
    al. 1989) =

-   *Artemisia cana / Poa pratensis* Plant Association (Cooper et
    al. 1999) =

-   *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type
    (Hironaka et al. 1983) B

-   Silver sagebrush / Kentucky bluegrass Plant Association (Crowe and
    Clausnitzer 1997) =

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs in high mountain valleys, on
broad flat, gently sloping to undulating alluvial outwash fans, first or
second stream terraces, toeslopes or seeps. Elevation ranges from 1445
to 2560 m (4753-8400 feet). It generally occurs as narrow stringers
along stream courses, or in meadows where the water table is near the
surface seasonally. Soils are deep and finely textured, alluvial, and
often with mottling indicating a fluctuating water table at depths of
60-100 cm below the soil surface.

**Vegetation:** This association is a montane shrubland that occurs in
mesic areas of riparian corridors, or along upper terraces of valley
floors. *Artemisia cana* is the major short-shrub component (10-40%
canopy cover), other sagebrush species may also be present in lower
abundance such as *Artemisia tridentata* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana*. Other shrubs include *Dasiphora fruticosa* and *Betula nana
(= Betula glandulosa)*. Herbaceous cover is sparse to thick and is
generally dominated by *Poa pratensis*. Other herbaceous species present
include *Carex simulata, Juncus balticus, Stipa* spp., *Achillea
millefolium, Potentilla gracilis, Trifolium* spp., *Taraxacum
officinale*, and *Geranium viscosissimum*.

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:** This association is considered a grazing-induced version
of *Artemisia cana / Festuca idahoensis* in Idaho, Utah, western Wyoming
and Montana, or *Artemisia cana / Deschampsia caespitosa* in
northeastern Oregon. It is also a grazing-induced type of *Artemisia
cana / Pascopyrum smithii* and *Artemisia cana / Elymus trachycaulus*,
also in Montana. Depending on the degree of disturbance, one may find
traces of these native graminoid species in the undergrowth.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 13-Jul-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNA (invasive) **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known from northeastern Oregon, Idaho,
western Wyoming, southwestern Montana, Utah, and possibly Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO?, ID, MT, OR, UT, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC, M331D:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Cooper et al. 1999, Crowe and Clausnitzer 1997, Hansen
et al. 1995, Hironaka et al. 1983, Padgett et al. 1989, Svalberg et al.
1997, Tart 1995, Tuhy and Jensen 1982, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d., Youngblood et al. 1985a

#### CEGL001548--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) / Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### (Bolander Silver Sagebrush, Mountain Silver Sagebrush) / Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mountain-silver-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Silver Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Sparse Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#silver-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-sparse-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** *Artemisia cana* is usually the only shrub, but *Ericameria
nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)* occasionally occurs. *Poa secunda*
(usually in the formerly recognized, large, *Poa secunda ssp.
nevadensis* form) is the most common herbaceous species. Other common
understory species include *Lupinus argenteus, Elymus elymoides,
Trifolium gymnocarpon, Astragalus lentiginosus, Eleocharis macrostachya,
Distichlis spicata (= Distichlis stricta), Polyctenium fremontii*, and
*Camissonia tanacetifolia (= Oenothera tanacetifolia)*. This association
is found in northern Great Basin playas in 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
macrostachya* and *Eleocharis macrostachya* associations occur. These
sites remain flooded for a longer period of time than the *Artemisia
cana / Poa secunda* sites. Playa centers are often the monotypic
*Camissonia tanacetifolia* association, which remains flooded for longer
than the other associations and have more saline soils. At higher
elevations, *Artemisia cana* playas usually find *Poa fendleriana*
replacing *Poa secunda* as the dominant grass.

**Classification Comments:** Low cover of vegetation is typical of this
association.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana/Poa nevadensis* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs in a semi-arid region of varied
topography. Average annual precipitation is between 20 cm and 40 cm for
much of the region, with somewhat higher amounts at higher elevations.
This association is found on moist, semi-alkaline flats or valley
bottoms within the sagebrush or western juniper zones of Oregon.
Elevations of these bottomlands can range from 1060 to over 1830 meters,
but at higher elevations the association occurs as small patches in
montane meadows.

**Vegetation:** Little information is available on the composition of
this association. The 1- to 2-m tall, broad-leaved evergreen shrub
*Artemisia cana* is moderately to widely spaced in the canopy of this
association. The herbaceous layer is dominated by the widely spaced,
perennial bunchgrass *Poa secunda*, with *Elymus caninus* occurring, and
occasionally abundant, in most stands. Only a few forb species occur,
typically in moist microsites. These include species of *Astragalus,
Orthocarpus* and *Rorippa*. Bare ground is extensive.

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 8-Dec-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** This association is restricted to east-central Oregon. It
is restricted to the portions of desert playas that are underwater for
several months of the year, but which are not so alkaline that they
support salt desert shrub species. The playas that support this
association are not common and many sites have been degraded by
livestock grazing and invasion by non-native species. This association
has declined due to grazing of the playas, invasion by non-native
species, clearing of the playas for agricultural uses, and hydrological
alterations, which change the hydroperiod.

**Ranking Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 10-Sep-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is restricted to east-central Oregon. The
association is restricted to the portion of the desert playa that is
underwater for several months of the year.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV?, OR:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Manning and Padgett 1991, Manning and Padgett 1995, ORNHP unpubl. data,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002987--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *bolanderi / Eleocharis palustris* Shrubland

#### Bolander Silver Sagebrush / Marsh Spikerush Shrubland {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-marsh-spikerush-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Silver Sagebrush / Common Spikerush Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#silver-sagebrush-common-spikerush-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GU **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV?, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342:?

**Federal Lands:** BLM (Foster Flat RNA)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Christy and Cornelius 1980, Kovalchik 1987, Padgett
1982, Titus et al. 1996, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003475--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *bolanderi / Iris missouriensis - Juncus balticus* Shrubland

#### Bolander Silver Sagebrush / Stony Mountain Iris - Baltic Rush Shrubland {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-stony-mountain-iris---baltic-rush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-13 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** Vegetation in this alliance is
distinguished from the *Artemisia cana (ssp. bolanderi, ssp. viscidula)*
Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1531) by the greater cover of shrubs (\>25%
canopy cover) and the more regular flooding regime.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Plant associations in this alliance occur at middle
elevations (3000-8200 \[occasionally to 9800\] feet). Precipitation
varies across the range from less than 25 cm in semiarid basins of the
western Great Basin to over 90 cm in moister meadow habitats of the
Sierra Nevada and northern Stony Mountains. Most commonly, this alliance
occurs on alluvial fans or alluvial terraces along mountain streams
where soils are saturated in spring and water tables remain within 2-3 m
of the soil surface all year. In general, these communities show an
affinity for mild topography, fine soils, and some source of subsurface
moisture. Soils are typically formed in alluvium and have textures of
silt loams and sandy loams. Adjacent vegetation varies from *Pinus
contorta* forests in the mountains to *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands
in semiarid basins and plains, to *Salix* spp. shrublands on terraces
above riparian habitats. The hydrological divisions in the *Artemisia
cana* group are poorly distinguished. In montane and subalpine meadows
and valleys *Artemisia cana* plant associations are often the driest of
the recognizable riparian habitats. This transitional position and the
broad floodplains where these shrublands typically occur blur
wetland/upland distinctions. Sarr (1995) noted two contiguous *Artemisia
cana* communities in the Sierra Nevada that appeared to be upland and
facultative wetland types based on habitat affinities of the understory
layer. Most of these riparian stands have been placed in the *Artemisia
cana* Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance (A.843). Although these
sites generally have seasonally saturated soils and shallow water
tables, the true frequency of flooding is probably highly variable.
Nearly all *Artemisia cana* communities are azonal (*sensu* Daubenmire
1970) and are associated with sites of above-normal soil moisture.

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** T. Keeler-Wolf **Version:** 3-Jan-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author:** T. Keeler-Wolf **Version:** 1-Apr-2003

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is only known from the vicinity of Yosemite.
Information about its global range is not available without additional
inventory. Some ecological types described by Wexelman et al. (1999)
from the east slope of the Sierra closely resemble this association.
*Artemisia cana* is a widespread species of temporarily or seasonally
flooded settings in the Intermountain West.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Daubenmire 1970, Sarr 1995, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d., Wexelman et al. 1999

#### CEGL001075--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula* - (*Salix* spp.) / *Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland

#### Mountain Silver Sagebrush - (Willow species) / Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#mountain-silver-sagebrush---willow-species-idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-14 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland association is found in the mountains of
southeastern Idaho, western Wyoming, and southwestern and central
Montana. Stands occur in valley bottoms and stream terraces at
elevations between 1980-2560 m. Sites are relatively mesic, flat to
gently sloping, and typically occur between the uplands and the active
floodplain. They are typically not flooded, but may be subirrigated from
streams and upland seeps. The water table is usually over a meter from
the surface. Soils are dark, loamy Mollisols with some mottles. This
association has a sparse to moderately dense (20-45% cover) short-shrub
layer (\<1.0 m tall) that is characterized by at least 5% cover of
*Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula*. Other shrubs include *Dasiphora
fruticosa ssp. floribunda (= Pentaphylloides floribunda), Salix wolfii*
or *Salix boothii* on moist sites, and *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana* on drier sites. The moderately dense graminoid layer is
dominated by the perennial bunchgrass *Festuca idahoensis*. Other native
graminoids include *Carex microptera, Melica spectabilis, Achnatherum
nelsonii ssp. dorei (= Stipa columbiana), Elymus trachycaulus, Poa
secunda*, and several other species of *Carex*. Forbs may include
*Symphyotrichum eatonii (= Aster eatonii), Hymenoxys hoopesii (=
Helenium hoopesii), Potentilla gracilis, Valeriana occidentalis,
Achillea millefolium*, and *Fragaria virginiana*. *Hymenoxys hoopesii*
will increase with heavy grazing disturbance, as will the introduced
species *Poa pratensis* and *Taraxacum officinale*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 3-Jan-2000

**GReasons:** This shrubland association occurs locally in the northern
Rocky Mountains. Stands are restricted to valley bottoms and stream
terraces between the uplands and the active floodplain. These sites are
not generally flooded, but are subirrigated from streams and upland
seeps. The water table is usually over 1 m from the surface. This
association is declining because of human-caused impacts to the natural
ecological processes, and is threatened by presence of invasive
non-native plants and inappropriate levels of grazing, and alteration of
natural stream flow processes. Overgrazing by livestock will decrease
*Festuca idahoensis* cover and increase the cover of grazing-tolerant
species such as *Hymenoxys hoopesii* and introduced species such as *Poa
pratensis* and *Taraxacum officinale*. If overuse by livestock is
extreme, it can cause increased stream channel erosion and downcutting
that can lower the water table and change this moist meadow type into a
dry meadow type.

**Ranking Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 3-Jan-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is found in the northern Rocky Mountains.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S2, MT, WY:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:?, 8:C, 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332A:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Bramble-Brodahl 1978,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hansen et al. 1988b, Hansen et al. 1995, Mueggler
and Stewart 1980, Mutz and Graham 1982, Schlatterer 1972, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d., Youngblood et al. 1985a

#### CEGL001074--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Deschampsia caespitosa* Shrubland

#### Mountain Silver Sagebrush / Tufted Hairgrass Shrubland {#mountain-silver-sagebrush-tufted-hairgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-15 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Foothill and Lower Montane Riparian Woodland and
    Shrubland (CES304.045)

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This low-shrub vegetation type is found in riparian zones
along mountain streams of western Wyoming, southeastern Idaho, and
eastern Utah, at elevations up to 2560 m (8400 feet) in the north and
2800 m (9200 feet) in the south. It grows on relatively dry riparian
sites located on stream terraces or sloping valley bottoms with deep,
usually fine-textured soils. Water is present in the soil profile at
least part of the year. The vegetation consists of a low-shrub layer
(\<1 m tall) dominated by *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* and that often
contains *Dasiphora fruticosa ssp. floribunda (= Pentaphylloides
floribunda, = Potentilla fruticosa*) and *Salix wolfii*. The dense
herbaceous undergrowth may be composed mainly of graminoids or may be
codominated by graminoids and forbs. *Deschampsia caespitosa*
contributes as much canopy cover as does any other native species.
*Juncus balticus, Carex microptera, Poa pratensis, Hymenoxys hoopesii (=
Helenium hoopesii)*, and *Fragaria virginiana* often are present and may
contribute substantial cover.

**Classification Comments:** Crowe and Clausnitzer (1997) and Crowe et
al. (2004) describe an *Artemisia cana / Deschampsia cespitosa*
Association from central and eastern Oregon, but the sagebrush in the
few stands of that type that have been documented is *Artemisia cana
ssp. bolanderi*. We may want to put both subspecies *Artemisia cana ssp.
bolanderi* and *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* in the same association
in the future. This association may be difficult to separate from
*Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation (CEGL001552).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001552)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana / Deschampsia cespitosa* Community Type (Padgett et
    al. 1989) =

-   *Artemisia cana / Festuca idahoensis* Community Type (Mutz and
    Graham 1982) I

-   *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula/Deschampsia cespitosa* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   Mountain silver sagebrush community (Beetle 1961) =

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This low-shrub vegetation type is found in riparian
zones along mountain streams of western Wyoming (Beetle 1961, Mutz and
Graham 1982), southeastern Idaho, and eastern Utah (Padgett et al.
1989), at elevations up to 2560 m (8400 feet) in the north and 2800 m
(9200 feet) in the south. It grows on relatively dry riparian sites
located on stream terraces or sloping valley bottoms with deep, usually
fine-textured soils. Water is present in the soil profile at least part
of the year.

**Vegetation:** The vegetation consists of a low-shrub layer (\<1 m
tall) dominated by *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* and that often
contains *Dasiphora fruticosa ssp. floribunda (= Pentaphylloides
floribunda; = Potentilla fruticosa*) and *Salix wolfii*. The dense
herbaceous undergrowth may be composed mainly of graminoids or may be
codominated by graminoids and forbs. *Deschampsia caespitosa*
contributes as much canopy cover as does any other native species.
*Juncus balticus, Carex microptera, Poa pratensis, Hymenoxys hoopesii (=
Helenium hoopesii)*, and *Fragaria virginiana* often are present and may
contribute substantial cover.

**Dynamics:** Padgett et al. (1989) suggest that species composition in
stands of this association is stable unless they are subjected to heavy
grazing which can eliminate *Deschampsia caespitosa* (and other
palatable species) and result in dominance by *Poa pratensis*. The
vegetation would then, presumably, be classified as *Artemisia cana
(ssp. bolanderi, ssp. viscidula) / Poa pratensis* Semi-natural Shrubland
(CEGL002988).

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G.P. Jones, mod. G. Kittel **Version:**
27-Sep-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G3 **GRank Review Date:** 4-Aug-2004

**GReasons:** The G2G3 rank is based on the following information and
inferences: (1) the geographic range of the association is somewhat
limited, and the area within that range occupied by the association
apparently is quite limited, due in part to narrow environmental
tolerance; (2) the number of occurrences is unknown but probably small;
(3) although the vegetation may be stable in the absence of disturbance,
the undergrowth seems to be sensitive to heavy grazing, and many stands
formerly representing this association have been converted to dominance
by *Poa pratensis*; and (4) re-establishment of dominance by native
species in the undergrowth apparently is very slow.

**Ranking Author:** G.P. Jones **Version:** 27-Sep-2004

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The geographic range of this association is estimated to be
roughly 217,000 square km (80,000 square miles), extending from southern
Teton County, Wyoming (Beetle 1961), south and west to central Utah
(Padgett et al. 1989).

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, OR?, UT:S2S3, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:?, 9:C, 10:?, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331:C, M332G:PP, M341:C

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Beetle 1961, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Crowe and
Clausnitzer 1997, Crowe et al. 2004, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hansen et al.
1995, Mutz and Graham 1982, Padgett et al. 1988b, Padgett et al. 1989,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Youngblood et al. 1985a

#### CEGL001076--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca ovina* Shrubland

#### Mountain Silver Sagebrush / Sheep Fescue Shrubland {#mountain-silver-sagebrush-sheep-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-16 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula/Festuca ovina* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** UT:S4S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:?

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:??, M331:?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Padgett et al. 1988b, Padgett et al. 1989, Schlatterer 1972, Tuhy 1981,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Youngblood et al. 1985a

#### CEGL001071--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca thurberi* Shrubland

#### Mountain Silver Sagebrush / Thurber\'s Fescue Shrubland {#mountain-silver-sagebrush-thurbers-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-17 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** R.J. Rondeau

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is found in cold, deep soils in moist
subalpine meadows and parks at elevations between 2440-2960 m (8000-9700
feet) on the Arapaho, Routt, and Gunnison national forests in Colorado.
It may occur in similar habitats in Utah. *Artemisia cana* dominates the
shrub layer, with an average of 30% cover. *Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus)* is commonly present, with 1 or 2% cover in
good condition stands. Other shrubs that may occur with low cover
include *Dasiphora fruticosa ssp. floribunda (= Pentaphylloides
floribunda), Symphoricarpos oreophilus*, and *Amelanchier utahensis*.
The herb layer is dominated by *Festuca thurberi*, with an average of
30% cover in good condition stands; *Festuca idahoensis* is often found
in the stand. Other commonly associated graminoids, with less than 2%
cover, include *Bromus anomalus, Bromus porteri, Danthonia intermedia,
Elymus trachycaulus, Achnatherum pinetorum (= Stipa pinetorum),
Achnatherum nelsonii (= Stipa nelsonii), Poa secunda (= Poa nevadensis),
Poa fendleriana, Achnatherum nelsonii ssp. dorei (= Stipa columbiana),
Muhlenbergia montana*, and *Carex geyeri*. Commonly associated forbs
include *Eriogonum umbellatum, Senecio* spp., *Delphinium X occidentale,
Lathyrus lanszwertii var. leucanthus (= Lathyrus leucanthus), Vicia
americana, Achillea millefolium, Geranium richardsonii, Erigeron
speciosus, Galium boreale*, and *Potentilla* spp.

**Classification Comments:** This association has been described and
consistently recognized by a variety of botanists in Colorado over the
past 20 years. However, it is closely related to *Artemisia cana ssp.
viscidula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
(CEGL001552), which is also found in Colorado. The three distinguishing
vegetative characteristics of this plant association are *Ericameria
nauseosa* instead of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, the
prominence of *Festuca thurberi* versus *Festuca idahoensis*, and the
relative poverty of the forb community. *Artemisia cana / Festuca
idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation also appears to occupy a wetter,
and more basic, environment although with greater elevational amplitude
and a greater geographic range than this association (CEGL001071).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001552)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana/Festuca thurberi* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** R.J. Rondeau **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G3 **GRank Review Date:** 22-Dec-2000

**GReasons:** This plant association exists where the range of
*Artemisia cana* and *Festuca thurberi* overlap. This appears to be
restricted to subalpine meadows and parks of the western slope of
Colorado and possibly Utah. There are estimated to be over 100
occurrences globally. It is probably a southern expression of *Artemisia
cana ssp. viscidula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
(CEGL001552) found in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and Colorado.

**Ranking Author:** R.J. Rondeau **Version:** 17-Jan-2001

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Although this association has been described only in
Colorado, environmental conditions and the key species\' ranges suggest
it is probably found in Utah as well.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2S3, UT?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342:?

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Arapaho, Gunnison, Routt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, CONHP unpubl. data,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Francis 1983, Hess 1981, Johnston 1987, Tiedemann
et al. 1987, Turner 1969, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001073--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Purshia tridentata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Silver Sagebrush / Bitterbrush Shrubland {#mountain-silver-sagebrush-bitterbrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-18 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana/Purshia tridentata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2S3

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342:?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Cunningham 1971, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

### A.827--*Artemisia cana* Shrubland Alliance

### Silver Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#silver-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Midwest, Southeast, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance, found in the western Great Plains and
central Rocky Mountain states, is largely a western alliance. This
description is based on the small portion found in the Midwest. Stands
of this alliance are found on flat sites with fine soils. The vegetation
is less than 1 m tall with a significant shrub layer and a sparse to
moderate herbaceous layer. The dominant shrubs are *Artemisia cana,
Sarcobatus vermiculatus*, and sometimes *Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus)*. *Artemisia tridentata* and *Atriplex
canescens* may be present.

**Classification Comments:** This alliance needs further review and
characterization both rangewide and for the Great Plains extent. In the
Great Plains, its differences with *Artemisia cana* Temporarily Flooded
Shrubland Alliance (A.843) need to be established.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1531)

-   *Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrubland
    Alliance (A.2557)

-   *Artemisia cana* Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance (A.843)

-   *Festuca thurberi* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1256)

-   *Sarcobatus vermiculatus* Intermittently Flooded Shrubland Alliance
    (A.1046)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Vegetation in this alliance is
distinguished from the *Artemisia cana* shrub herbaceous alliances by
the greater cover of shrubs (\>25% canopy cover). The hydrological
divisions in the *Artemisia cana* group, however, are poorly
distinguished. In montane and subalpine meadows and valleys, *Artemisia
cana* plant associations are often the driest of the recognizable
riparian habitats. This transitional position and the broad floodplains
where these shrublands typically occurs, blur wetland/upland
distinctions. Sarr (1995) noted two contiguous *Artemisia cana*
communities in the Sierra Nevada which appeared to be upland and
facultative wetland types, based on habitat affinities of the understory
layer. Most of these riparian stands have been placed in the III.A.4.N.c
*Artemisia cana* Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance (A.843).
Although these sites generally have seasonally saturated soils and
shallow water tables, the true frequency of flooding is probably highly
variable. Nearly all *Artemisia cana* communities are azonal (*sensu*
Daubenmire 1970) and are associated with sites of above normal soil
moisture. Communities in the III.A.4.N.b *Artemisia cana* Intermittently
Flooded Shrubland Alliance (A.841) appear to occur at unpredictably
flooded habitats associated with desert playa basins and drainages.

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Plant associations in this alliance occur throughout
the northern half of the Intermountain West, usually at middle
elevations (1000-2500 (occasionally to 3000) m). Precipitation varies
across the range, from less than 25 cm in semi-arid basins of the
western Great Basin, to over 90 cm in moister meadow habitats of the
Sierra Nevada and northern Rocky Mountains. Most commonly, this alliance
occurs on alluvial fans or alluvial terraces along mountain streams,
where soils are saturated in spring and water tables remain within 2-3 m
of the soil surface all year. In general, these communities show an
affinity for mild topography, fine soils, and some source of subsurface
moisture. Soils are typically formed in alluvium, and have textures of
silt loams and sandy loams. Adjacent vegetation varies from *Pinus
contorta* forests in the mountains, to *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands
in semi-arid basins and plains, to *Salix* spp. shrublands on terraces
above riparian habitats.

**Vegetation:** Vegetation types within this alliance are usually less
than 1 m tall and dominated by *Artemisia cana*. In semi-alkaline areas
of the Great Basin and northern Great Plains *Sarcobatus vermiculatus,
Atriplex canescens*, and *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus
nauseosus)* may be shrub associates. *Artemisia tridentata* is the most
consistent shrub species present across the range of this alliance. The
herbaceous layer is usually well represented, but bare ground may be
common in particularly arid or disturbed stands. Graminoids that can be
abundant include *Festuca idahoensis, Festuca thurberi, Festuca ovina,
Elymus elymoides, Deschampsia caespitosa*, and *Danthonia intermedia*.
Forbs can important, including *Achillea millefolium, Potentilla
gracilis, Conyza canadensis, Hymenoxys hoopesii (= Helenium hoopesii),
Fragaria virginiana, Artemisia ludoviciana, Linum perenne, Trifolium*
spp., and *Arnica* spp.

**Dynamics:** Vegetation types in this alliance occur on alluvial
terrain. They are often grazed by domestic livestock and are strongly
preferred during the growing season (Padgett et al. 1989). Prolonged
livestock use can cause a decrease in the abundance of native bunch
grasses and increases in the cover of shrubs and non-native grass
species, such as *Poa pratensis*. *Artemisia cana* resprouts vigorously
following spring fire, and prescribed burning may increase shrub cover.
Conversely, fire in the fall may decrease shrub abundance (Hansen et al.
1995).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Associations in this alliance are found in a widely scattered
distribution, from western North Dakota, Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho,
and Montana.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ND

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331:C, 342B:??, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332A:CC,
M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M341:C

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Arapaho, Gunnison, Routt)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Cunningham 1971, Daubenmire 1970,
Faber-Langendoen et al. 1996, Francis 1983, Hansen et al. 1995, Hess
1981, Johnston 1987, Manning and Padgett 1995, Mueggler and Stewart
1980, Mutz and Graham 1982, Padgett et al. 1988b, Padgett et al. 1989,
Sarr 1995, Schlatterer 1972, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Tiedemann
et al. 1987, Tuhy 1981, Turner 1969, Youngblood et al. 1985a

#### CEGL002175--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana - Sarcobatus vermiculatus - (Ericameria nauseosa)* Shrubland

#### Plains Silver Sagebrush - Black Greasewood - (Rubber Rabbitbrush) Shrubland {#plains-silver-sagebrush---black-greasewood---rubber-rabbitbrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush - Greasewood - (Rabbit Brush) Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: Midwest {#big-sagebrush---greasewood---rabbit-brush-shrubland-classif.-resp.-midwest .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
Midwest

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** D. Lenz

**Concept Ref.:** Midwestern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** More information is needed on this type.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** D. Lenz **Version:** 8-Jul-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 3-Oct-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 3-Oct-1996

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This silver sagebrush shrubland is found in the northern
Great Plains of the United States.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ND:S2S3

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331:C

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Midwestern Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.816--*Artemisia filifolia* Shrubland Alliance

### Sand Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#sand-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Midwest, Southeast, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance includes *Artemisia filifolia*-dominated
shrublands occurring mostly in the southern Great Plains, but
associations are distributed as far north as the Black Hills, south to
the Trans-Pecos of western Texas, as well as on the Colorado Plateau.
These shrublands typically occur on flat, hummocky, or rolling terrain,
as well as on partially stabilized dunes and sand sheets. Soils
supporting these communities have low water retention and nutrient
availability, and are typically sand or loamy sand, primarily of aeolian
origin, but include sand deposits derived from sandstone residuum and
cinder deposits. Less xeric sites tend to be more grass-dominated. In
western Kansas and eastern Colorado, this alliance is found downwind of
major waterways where alluvial sand is blown. In Texas these shrublands
occur over sandy soils in the Rolling and High Plains and on gypsum
dunes in the Trans-Pecos. On the Colorado Plateau, stands occur on a
variety of sites including pockets of sand below sandstone cliffs, dunes
and sheets of sand or cinder, floodplain terraces and alluvial fans.
Vegetation cover is sparse to moderately dense, with a shrub stratum
approximately 1 m tall, dominated by *Artemisia filifolia*, interspersed
with areas of bare substrate and scattered tall or mid grasses. Species
composition will vary with geography, precipitation, disturbance, and
soil texture. Associated species may include *Andropogon hallii,
Artemisia frigida, Bouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua gracilis, Carex
duriuscula (= Carex eleocharis), Calamovilfa gigantea, Calamovilfa
longifolia, Calylophus serrulatus, Carex inops ssp. heliophila,
Helianthus petiolaris, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Heterotheca
villosa var. villosa, Ipomoea leptophylla, Lathyrus polymorphus,
Lygodesmia juncea, Opuntia* spp., *Penstemon buckleyi, Prosopis
glandulosa, Prunus angustifolia, Psoralidium lanceolatum, Schizachyrium
scoparium, Sporobolus giganteus, Sporobolus cryptandrus*, and *Yucca
glauca*. Communities associated with gypsum dunes have many gypsophiles
or gypsum endemics. Colorado Plateau shrub associates include
*Ericameria nauseosa, Ephedra torreyana, Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia
sarothrae, Atriplex canescens*, and the graminoids *Muhlenbergia
pungens, Sporobolus cryptandrus, Bouteloua eriopoda*, and *Achnatherum
hymenoides*.

**Classification Comments:** Communities within this alliance are
characterized by sparse to moderate vegetation cover and dominance by
*Artemisia filifolia* with tall, medium, or short grasses. Communities
in two graminoid-dominated alliances, *Andropogon hallii* Herbaceous
Alliance (A.1193) and *Calamovilfa longifolia* Herbaceous Alliance
(A.1201), often contain *Artemisia filifolia*; however, physiognomic
differences (i.e., the amount of shrub canopy) can usually be used to
distinguish stands. Stands that have moderate amounts of *Artemisia
filifolia* and a greater amount of herbaceous vegetation cover may still
pose classification problems. These stands may be somewhere in between
this shrubland alliance and herbaceous alliances. Stands described by
Ramaley (1939b) are dominated by *Artemisia filifolia*, but have low
cover (10%) and may be too sparse to be classified as a shrubland.
Stands in the *Artemisia filifolia* dune shrubland association are also
sparse and may be better classified as a sparsely vegetated type.

Range site descriptions (Soil Conservation Service 1978) for good
condition stands in Colorado describe *Artemisia filifolia* as occurring
in low abundance, suggesting that good condition stands would be
classified as herbaceous communities with a shrub component. Stands that
are impacted by heavy grazing have *Artemisia filifolia* in greater
abundance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Andropogon hallii* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1193)

-   *Calamovilfa longifolia* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1201)

-   *Poliomintha incana* Shrubland Alliance (A.862)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Stands in the two similar alliances often
contain *Artemisia filifolia* and occur in similar habitats; however,
physiognomic differences (i.e., graminoid-dominated and shrub canopy
\<25%) can usually be used to classify stands. Stands with sparse cover
of both *Artemisia filifolia* and graminoids still pose classification
problems.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia* Series #303 (Johnston 1987) ?

-   *Artemisia filifolia* Shrubland Alliance (Hoagland 2000) ?

-   *Artemisia filifolia* shrubland alliance (Hoagland 1998a) ?

-   SRM Cover Type #605 - Sandsage Prairie (Shiflet 1994) =

-   Sand Sage Community (Ramaley 1939b) ?

-   Sand Sagebrush (Dick-Peddie 1993) ?

-   Sandsage Prairie (Kuchler 1974) ?

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) ?

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Shrublands included in this alliance occur on sandy
sites in the central and southern Great Plains into the Chihuahuan
Desert and on the Colorado Plateau. Elevations range from 1300-1700 m.
The climate is semi-arid to arid, and mean annual precipitation ranges
from 20-65 cm. Sites include flat to moderately sloping hummocky or
rolling terrain to partially stabilized dunes. Stands can occur on any
aspect. The soils are sand or loamy sand, primarily of aeolian origin,
but include sand deposits derived from sandstone residuum and cinder
deposits. All substrates are well-drained to excessively well-drained.
Water retention and nutrient availability of the soils are low because
water infiltrates rapidly and percolates deeply into the coarse-textured
substrate, and is therefore only available to deep-rooted plants. In
southwestern Kansas and southeastern Colorado, this alliance is found
downwind of major waterways where alluvial sand is blown (Johnston
1987). In Texas these shrublands occur on sandy soils in the Rolling and
High Plains and on gypsum dunes in the Trans-Pecos (Dick-Peddie 1993).
On the Colorado Plateau, stands occur on a variety of sites including
pockets of sand below sandstone cliffs, partially stabilized dunes and
sheets of cinder or sand, floodplain terraces and alluvial fans.

Adjacent vegetation varies by geographic location but is generally
grasslands dominated by shortgrass and midgrass prairie species such as
*Bouteloua gracilis, Pleuraphis jamesii, Calamagrostis canadensis*, and
*Hesperostipa comata*. In desert areas it is surrounded by Chihuahuan
Desert scrub dominated by *Larrea tridentata*.

**Vegetation:** This alliance includes *Artemisia filifolia*-dominated
shrublands that occur on sandy sites in the central and southern Great
Plains (extending as far north as the Black Hills), the Chihuahuan
Desert, and the Colorado Plateau. The vegetation is characterized by a
sparse to moderately dense woody layer approximately 1 m tall that is
dominated by the microphyllous evergreen shrub *Artemisia filifolia*.
These shrubs usually do not grow as clumps but as individuals with the
interstices most often dominated by a sparse to moderately dense layer
of tall, mid or short grasses (Bruner 1939, Steinauer 1989, Ramaley
1939a, 1939b, Dick-Peddie 1993).

Associated shrub and dwarf-shrub composition will vary with geography,
precipitation, disturbance, and soils. In the Great Plains, some stands
have *Prunus angustifolia* as a codominant in the shrub layer. This
species often grows taller than *Artemisia filifolia* and may form
thickets (McGregor and Barkley 1986). In northern stands *Artemisia
frigida* is more common, and Chihuahuan Desert stands may include *Dalea
lanata, Psorothamnus scoparius, Tiquilia hispidissima*, or *Yucca
elata*. On the Colorado Plateau, *Ericameria nauseosa, Ephedra
torreyana, Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, or *Atriplex
canescens* may codominate. Species of *Opuntia* and *Yucca* are common
in many stands throughout its range.

The sparse to moderately dense herbaceous layer is typically dominated
by graminoids. The most abundant and widespread species are *Achnatherum
hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Andropogon hallii, Bouteloua
gracilis, Bouteloua curtipendula, Calamovilfa longifolia, Schizachyrium
scoparium*, or *Sporobolus cryptandrus*. *Carex inops ssp. heliophila,
Carex duriuscula (= Carex eleocharis)*, and *Hesperostipa comata (=
Stipa comata)* are more common in northern stands, and *Bouteloua
breviseta, Bouteloua eriopoda, Bouteloua trifida, Sporobolus flexuosus,
Sporobolus giganteus*, and *Sporobolus nealleyi* are restricted to
southern stands. *Muhlenbergia pungens, Sporobolus cryptandrus,
Bouteloua eriopoda*, and *Achnatherum hymenoides* are important
graminoids on the Colorado Plateau. Forbs are typically not abundant in
these communities. Associated species include *Calylophus serrulatus,
Heterotheca villosa var. villosa, Helianthus petiolaris, Ipomoea
leptophylla, Lathyrus polymorphus, Lepidium montanum, Lygodesmia juncea,
Mentzelia* spp., *Penstemon buckleyi*, and *Psoralidium lanceolatum*.
Communities associated with gypsum dunes have many gypsophiles or gypsum
endemics.

**Dynamics:** These shrublands occur as any one of several stages in a
successional sequence. Drought or overgrazing stands of this alliance
will reduce vegetation cover and can allow the wind to cause blowouts or
active dunes (Ramaley 1939b). Ramaley (1939b) describes the succession
in Colorado from loose sand to a sandhills - mixed community dominated
by *Muhlenbergia pungens*. It then may proceed to an *Artemisia
filifolia* (sand sage) community or skip this stage and succeed to the
sand prairie, late seral community dominated by *Hesperostipa comata,
Calamovilfa longifolia*, and *Andropogon hallii*. This can happen
relatively quickly with adequate precipitation and rest from grazing.
Ramaley (1939b) also reported that unless protected from overgrazing and
fires, the sand sage community will not succeed into the sand prairie
community. However, in regions with marginal precipitation, such as
occurs over much of eastern Colorado, the sand sage community may be the
last successional stage (Ramaley 1939b).

A 10-year grazing study on sand sage pastures in Colorado by Sims et al.
(1976) and Dahl and Norris (1965) found that *Bouteloua gracilis*
abundance increased with increased cattle grazing, whereas *Calamovilfa
longifolia* and *Hesperostipa comata* decreased. With heavy grazing,
*Artemisia filifolia* density increased because of seedling recruitment.
This may be due to decreased competition with grasses. In the lightly
grazed treatments, *Hesperostipa comata* abundance more than doubled and
the *Artemisia filifolia* density decreased slightly. Weaver and
Albertson (1956) reported *Artemisia filifolia* and *Sporobolus
cryptandrus* both increasing with grazing in sandhills of Oklahoma.

In Colorado, fire frequency and extent are thought to be low in these
stands because sand sage areas are usually surrounded by other
communities that are too moist or too sparse to carry a fire well
(Ramaley 1939b). In the Great Plains, Wright and Bailey (1980) reported
that after fire *Artemisia filifolia* will resprout and will also
reproduce vigorously as seedlings. The shrubs *Prunus angustifolia* and
*Rhus* spp. also vigorously resprouted after fire (Jackson 1965).
Generally, however, fire reduces the vegetation cover that protects
these shrublands from blowouts.

Timing and amount of growing-season precipitation can greatly affect
species abundance from year to year. Normal to wet springs with a dry
summer often result in biomass being dominated by cool-season species
such as *Hesperostipa comata*. A year with a dry spring and normal to
wet summer results in biomass being dominated by warm-season species
such as *Andropogon hallii* and *Calamovilfa longifolia*. Similarly,
timing of grazing can have the same result. Forb abundance and diversity
can be very high during summers with significantly higher than average
precipitation. *Panicum virgatum, Sorghastrum nutans*, and *Prunus
pumila var. besseyi* are present in low abundance in good condition
stands in Colorado but are often eliminated by heavy grazing (Soil
Conservation Service 1978).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance occurs on sandy sites in the Great Plains and
Chihuahuan Desert from the Black Hills in southwestern South Dakota
south to Trans-Pecos Texas, southern New Mexico, and Arizona.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ, CO, KS, NE, NM, OK, SD, TX, UT, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C, 24:C, 25:C, 26:C, 27:C, 28:C, 29:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 313B:CC, 313D:CC, 313E:CC, 315A:C?,
315B:CC, 315C:CC, 321A:CC, 331B:CC, 331C:CC, 331F:CC, 331H:CC, 331I:CC,
332E:CC, 341B:CC, M313B:CC

**Federal Lands:** BIA (Navaho); NPS (Badlands, Petrified Forest,
Wupatki, Zion)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Aldous and Shantz 1924, Bruner 1931, Bunin 1985,
Costello and Turner 1944, Dahl and Norris 1965, Daley 1972, Diamond
1993, Dick-Peddie 1986, Dick-Peddie 1993, Evans 1964, Faber-Langendoen
et al. 1996, Garrison et al. 1977, Great Plains Flora Association 1986,
Green 1969, Hoagland 1998a, Hoagland 2000, Jackson 1965, Johnston 1987,
Kuchler 1974, Maxwell and Brown 1968, McGregor and Barkley 1986, McMahan
et al. 1984, Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Ramaley 1916b, Ramaley 1939a,
Ramaley 1939b, Rogers 1950, Rogers 1953, Savage 1937, Shiflet 1994, Sims
et al. 1976, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Steinauer 1989, Weaver and
Albertson 1956, Wright and Bailey 1980

#### CEGL002786--*Artemisia filifolia - Ephedra (torreyana, viridis)* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush - (Torrey\'s Joint-fir, Mormon-tea) Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush---torreys-joint-fir-mormon-tea-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-19 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 28-Aug-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Active and Stabilized Dune (CES304.775)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Volcanic Rock and Cinder Land (CES304.791)

-   Southern Colorado Plateau Sand Shrubland (CES304.793)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** This association has also been seen in the
San Rafael Swell in Utah and on the Navaho Indian Reservation.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 28-Aug-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ, UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313B:CC, 313D:CC, 341B:CC

**Federal Lands:** BIA (Navaho); NPS (Wupatki)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Hansen et al. 2004b, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL004561--*Artemisia filifolia - Psorothamnus scoparius - Dalea lanata* Gypsum Dune Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush - Broom Smokebush - Woolly Dalea Gypsum Dune Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush---broom-smokebush---woolly-dalea-gypsum-dune-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: Southeast {#classif.-resp.-southeast .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Southeast

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Oct-1996

**Concept Auth.:** A.S. Weakley and K.D. Patterson

**Concept Ref.:** Southeastern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   North American Warm Desert Active and Stabilized Dune (CES302.744)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This community occurs on more stable and vegetated gypsum
dunes of Trans-Pecos Texas and possibly adjacent areas. *Artemisia
filifolia, Psorothamnus scoparius, Atriplex canescens*, and *Dalea
lanata* share dominance in the shrub stratum, with *Yucca elata* and
*Chrysothamnus pulchellus* also present. Herbaceous species present are
*Sporobolus giganteus, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides),
Andropogon hallii, Gaillardia multiceps*, and *Bouteloua breviseta*.
This community occurs in association with the *Artemisia filifolia /
Andropogon hallii - Achnatherum hymenoides* Gypsum Dune Shrubland
(CEGL004559).

**Classification Comments:** Examples at The Nature Conservancy\'s
Gypsum Dunes Preserve.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii - Achnatherum hymenoides*
    Gypsum Dune Shrubland (CEGL004559)---of very active gypsum dunes of
    Trans-Pecos Texas.

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua breviseta - Gaillardia multiceps*
    Shrubland (CEGL004560)---of moist interdune swales over gypsum sand
    in Trans-Pecos Texas.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   Mixed Shrub Series, *Psorothamnus scoparius - Artemisia filifolia -
    Oryzopsis hymenoides - Sporobolus* spp. (Dick-Peddie 1993) ?

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:** In stands of this community, *Artemisia filifolia,
Psorothamnus scoparius, Atriplex canescens*, and *Dalea lanata* share
dominance in the shrub stratum, with *Yucca elata* and *Chrysothamnus
pulchellus* also present. Herbaceous species present are *Sporobolus
giganteus, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Andropogon
hallii, Gaillardia multiceps*, and *Bouteloua breviseta*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii - Achnatherum hymenoides
    Gypsum Dune Shrubland (CEGL004559)

**Adjacent Association Comments:** This community occurs in association
with *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii - Achnatherum hymenoides*
Gypsum Dune Shrubland (CEGL004559).

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1G2 **GRank Review Date:** 21-Dec-1999

**GReasons:** This association is naturally very restricted in range and
environmental conditions. It is found only on gypseous soils and
outcrops in the Trans-Pecos region of Texas and possibly adjacent areas.
The flora of gypseous soils is very variable, and the relationship
between this community and similar communities needs further evaluation.
Though gypsum outcrops are scattered throughout this area, they are
uncommon, and these communities support many endemic \"obligate\"
gypsophilic plant species, including *Bouteloua breviseta* and
*Gaillardia multiceps*. Threats to this community include gypsum mining
and development. The range in the rank reflects the need for further
inventory and description of this community.

**Ranking Author:** J. Teague **Version:** 21-Dec-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is found only in the Trans-Pecos region of
Texas and possibly adjacent areas.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** TX

**TNC Ecoregions:** 24:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Diamond 1993, Dick-Peddie 1993, Powell and Turner 1974,
Southeastern Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL004559--*Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii - Achnatherum hymenoides* Gypsum Dune Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Sand Bluestem - Indian Ricegrass Gypsum Dune Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-sand-bluestem---indian-ricegrass-gypsum-dune-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: Southeast {#classif.-resp.-southeast-1 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Southeast

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Oct-1996

**Concept Auth.:** A.S. Weakley and K.D. Patterson

**Concept Ref.:** Southeastern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   North American Warm Desert Active and Stabilized Dune (CES302.744)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This community occurs on very active gypsum dunes. Cover is
sparse, and large patches of bare gypsum sand occur. *Artemisia
filifolia* is the only shrub. The only grasses are *Andropogon hallii*
and *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*. Somewhat more
stable and vegetated areas are occupied by the *Artemisia filifolia -
Psorothamnus scoparius - Dalea lanata* Gypsum Dune Shrubland
(CEGL004561).

**Classification Comments:** Examples at TNC Gypsum Dunes Preserve.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia - Psorothamnus scoparius - Dalea lanata* Gypsum
    Dune Shrubland (CEGL004561)---of more stable and vegetated gypsum
    dunes of Trans-Pecos Texas.

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua breviseta - Gaillardia multiceps*
    Shrubland (CEGL004560)---of moist interdune swales over gypsum sand
    in Trans-Pecos Texas.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:** Cover is sparse in stands of this community, and large
patches of bare gypsum sand occur. *Artemisia filifolia* is the only
shrub. The only grasses are *Andropogon hallii* and *Achnatherum
hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia filifolia - Psorothamnus scoparius - Dalea lanata Gypsum
    Dune Shrubland (CEGL004561)

**Adjacent Association Comments:** Somewhat more stable and vegetated
areas are occupied by *Artemisia filifolia - Psorothamnus scoparius -
Dalea lanata* Gypsum Dune Shrubland (CEGL004561).

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1G2 **GRank Review Date:** 21-Dec-1999

**GReasons:** This association is naturally very restricted in range and
environmental setting. It is found only on active gypsum dunes in the
Trans-Pecos region of Texas and possibly adjacent areas. The flora of
gypseous soils is very variable, and the relationship between this
community and similar communities needs further evaluation. Threats to
this community include gypsum mining and development. The range in the
rank reflects the need for further inventory and description of this
community.

**Ranking Author:** J. Teague **Version:** 21-Dec-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is found only in the Trans-Pecos region of
Texas and possibly adjacent areas.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** TX

**TNC Ecoregions:** 24:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Diamond 1993, Powell and Turner 1974, Southeastern
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001459--*Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Sand Bluestem Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-sand-bluestem-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Sand Sagebrush / Sand Bluestem Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#sand-sagebrush-sand-bluestem-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
Midwest, Southeast, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J. Drake

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Central and Upper Texas Coast Salt and Brackish Tidal Marsh
    (CES203.473)

-   Western Great Plains Sandhill Shrubland (CES303.671)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sagebrush shrubland is found on flat to moderate
slopes in the central and southern Great Plains of the United States.
The soils are sandy and sandy loams and are somewhat excessively
well-drained to excessively well-drained. This community is dominated by
evenly spaced shrubs up to 1 m with mid grasses in between. *Artemisia
filifolia* is the most abundant shrub, while *Andropogon hallii* is the
most abundant herbaceous species. Other associated graminoids include
*Bouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua gracilis, Calamovilfa longifolia,
Eragrostis trichodes, Schizachyrium scoparium, Sporobolus cryptandrus*,
and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*. Forbs that are typically
found in this community include *Helianthus petiolaris, Heterotheca
villosa, Lathyrus polymorphus*, and *Psoralidium lanceolatum*. Total
vegetation cover is moderately dense to sparse.

**Classification Comments:** Steinauer and Rolfsmeier (2000) note that
in much of western Nebraska shrub canopy cover is more like an open
shrub prairie than a shrubland. Dense cover may occur due to
overgrazing.

In Texas and Oklahoma this association is a grassland with shrubs.
Effects of livestock grazing on vegetation structure need to be studied.
This type should be better contrasted with *Artemisia filifolia /
Schizachyrium scoparium - Andropogon hallii* Shrubland (CEGL002178).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Calamovilfa longifolia* Shrubland
    (CEGL002177)

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Schizachyrium scoparium - Andropogon hallii*
    Shrubland (CEGL002178)

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus cryptandrus* Shrubland
    (CEGL002179)---also attributed to OK but more southern in
    distribution.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) F

-   *Artemisia filifolia/Andropogon hallii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.A.2.e. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   Sand-sage Community (Ramaley 1939b) =

-   Sandsage Prairie (Kuchler 1974) B

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This community is found on gently to moderately sloping
hills. Rarely, it occurs on flat ground. The soils range from loamy fine
sands to sand and are somewhat excessively to excessively well-drained
(Steinauer 1989, Lauver et al. 1999). The parent material is eolian
sand. Johnston (1987) wrote that this community developed principally on
the leeward side of major drainageways in southeastern Colorado and
southwestern Kansas. In the sandhills of northern Colorado and western
Nebraska, this community also occurs away from drainageways (Ramaley
1939b, Steinauer 1989). Drought stress is great due to little
precipitation and sandy soil.

**Vegetation:** This community has an evenly spaced short-shrub layer
that reaches 1 m (Bruner 1931). The shrub layer is dominated by
*Artemisia filifolia*. The vegetation can be sparse to moderately dense.
Ramaley (1939) reported that *Artemisia filifolia* was the dominant
species and covered 10% of the ground in a stand in northeastern
Colorado. Other common shrubs are *Artemisia frigida, Opuntia* spp., and
*Yucca glauca*. Mid and tall grasses dominate between the shrubs. These
include *Andropogon hallii, Bouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua gracilis,
Calamovilfa longifolia, Eragrostis trichodes, Schizachyrium scoparium,
Sporobolus cryptandrus*, and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*. In
Kansas and Nebraska, *Cyperus schweinitzii, Eragrostis secundiflora,
Eriogonum annuum, Paspalum setaceum*, and *Grindelia papposa (=
Prionopsis ciliata)* are present. Forbs that are typically found in this
community include *Carex duriuscula (= Carex eleocharis), Helianthus
petiolaris, Heterotheca villosa, Lathyrus polymorphus*, and *Psoralidium
lanceolatum* (Lauver et al. 1999, Steinauer and Rolfsmeier 2000).

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** In the future, this shrubland may be split into the
current shrubland type and a sparse shrubland type that is dominated by
graminoids. Further work has to be done to clarify this distinction.

**Description Author:** J. Drake **Version:** 19-Oct-1995

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:** There are probably fewer than 100 occurrences of this
community rangewide. It is ranked S2 to S3 in Colorado, Nebraska,
Kansas, and Oklahoma, and it is also reported from Texas, New Mexico,
and Wyoming. Currently there are no occurrences documented. Historical
acreage and trends are unknown; this community has probably been
degraded by overgrazing. This community is prominent in the sandhills of
western Nebraska and northeastern Colorado.

**Ranking Author:** C. Reschke **Version:** 15-Nov-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This sand sagebrush shrubland is found on flat to moderate
slopes in the central and southern Great Plains of the United States,
ranging from western Nebraska and possibly Wyoming south to Texas and
possibly New Mexico.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2, KS:S2S3, NE:S2?, NM?, OK, TX?, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 24:C, 27:C, 28:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 315:C, 321A:CC, 331C:CC, 331H:CC, 331I:CC, 332E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Aldous and Shantz 1924, Baalman 1965, Blair and Hubbell
1938, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Bruner 1931, Bunin 1985, Costello
and Turner 1944, Dahl and Norris 1965, Daley 1972, Diamond 1993,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Duck and Fletcher 1945, Evans 1964, Green 1969,
Harlan 1957, Hoagland 2000, Johnston 1987, Jones 1963, Kuchler 1974,
Lauver et al. 1999, Osborn 1941, Osborn and Kellogg 1943, Ramaley 1916b,
Ramaley 1939b, Rogers 1950, Rogers 1953, Savage 1937, Sherwood 1980,
Sherwood and Risser 1980, Sims et al. 1976, Smith 1998, Soil
Conservation Service 1978, Steinauer 1989, Steinauer and Rolfsmeier
2000, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Zanoni et al. 1979

#### CEGL002176--*Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua (curtipendula, gracilis)* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / (Sideoats Grama, Blue Grama) Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-sideoats-grama-blue-grama-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Sand Sagebrush / Grama Grass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: Southeast {#sand-sagebrush-grama-grass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-southeast .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Midwest, Southeast

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Jan-1995

**Concept Auth.:** Great Plains Program, mod. D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Southeastern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Western Great Plains Sandhill Shrubland (CES303.671)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This community is found in the southern Great Plains of the
United States. Stands occur on sandy rolling hills. Soils are loamy fine
sand to sandy, excessively drained, and formed in loamy or sandy aeolian
sediments. The shrub layer is between 0.5 and 1 m tall. The canopy is
dominated by *Artemisia filifolia*. Short to medium grasses dominate the
ground layer, including *Bouteloua curtipendula* and *Bouteloua
gracilis*. Other graminoids include *Andropogon hallii, Cyperus
schweinitzii, Paspalum setaceum*, and *Schizachyrium scoparium*. Herbs
include *Erigeron annuus, Helianthus petiolaris*, and *Grindelia papposa
(= Prionopsis ciliata)*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands occur on sandy rolling hills. Soils are loamy
fine sand to sandy, excessively drained, and formed in loamy or sandy
aeolian sediments (Lauver et al. 1999).

**Vegetation:** The shrub layer is between 0.5 and 1 m tall. The canopy
is dominated by *Artemisia filifolia*. Short to medium grasses dominate
the ground layer, including *Bouteloua curtipendula* and *Bouteloua
gracilis*. Other graminoids include *Andropogon hallii, Cyperus
schweinitzii, Paspalum setaceum*, and *Schizachyrium scoparium*. Herbs
include *Erigeron annuus, Helianthus petiolaris*, and *Grindelia papposa
(= Prionopsis ciliata)* (Lauver et al. 1999).

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 31-Jan-2000

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 3-Oct-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 3-Oct-1996

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This community is found in the southern Great Plains of the
United States, ranging from Kansas south to Texas.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** KS:SU, OK, TX?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 27:C, 28:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 315B:CP, 331B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baalman 1965, Blair and Hubbell 1938, Bruner 1931,
Diamond 1993, Duck and Fletcher 1945, Harlan 1957, Hoagland 2000, Jones
1963, Lauver et al. 1999, Osborn 1941, Osborn and Kellogg 1943, Sherwood
1980, Sherwood and Risser 1980, Smith 1998, Southeastern Ecology Working
Group n.d., Zanoni et al. 1979

#### CEGL004560--*Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua breviseta - Gaillardia multiceps* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Gyp Grama - Gyp Gaillardia Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-gyp-grama---gyp-gaillardia-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: Southeast {#classif.-resp.-southeast-2 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Southeast

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Oct-1996

**Concept Auth.:** A.S. Weakley and K.D. Patterson

**Concept Ref.:** Southeastern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This community occupies moist interdune swales over gypsum
sand. It occurs in association with several other communities in this
alliance. Typical shrubs are *Artemisia filifolia, Krameria lanceolata,
Psorothamnus scoparius*, and *Yucca elata*. The dwarf-shrub *Tiquilia
hispidissima* may also be present. Herbaceous species are prominent,
including *Bouteloua breviseta, Bouteloua trifida, Gaillardia multiceps,
Sporobolus flexuosus, Sporobolus nealleyi, Sporobolus contractus,
Sporobolus giganteus, Monroa squarrosa, Senecio warnockii, Sartwellia
flaveriae, Dimorphocarpa wislizeni (= Dithyrea wislizeni), Nerisyrenia
linearifolia, Tidestromia lanuginosa, Lepidium alyssoides var.
angustifolium (= Lepidium montanum var. angustifolium), Mentzelia
humilis, Mentzelia saxicola, Thelesperma megapotamicum*, and
*Sphaeralcea incana*. Many of the species present are gypsophiles or
gypsum endemics.

**Classification Comments:** Examples at TNC Gypsum Dunes Preserve.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia - Psorothamnus scoparius - Dalea lanata* Gypsum
    Dune Shrubland (CEGL004561)---of more stable and vegetated gypsum
    dunes of Trans-Pecos Texas.

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii - Achnatherum hymenoides*
    Gypsum Dune Shrubland (CEGL004559)---of very active gypsum dunes of
    Trans-Pecos Texas.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1G2 **GRank Review Date:** 21-Dec-1999

**GReasons:** This association is naturally very restricted in range and
environmental setting. It is found only on gypseous soils and outcrops
in the Trans-Pecos region of Texas and possibly adjacent areas. The
flora of gypseous soils is very variable, and the relationship between
this community and similar communities needs further evaluation. Though
gypsum outcrops are scattered throughout this area, they are uncommon,
and these communities support many endemic \"obligate\" gypsophilic
plant species, including *Bouteloua breviseta* and *Gaillardia
multiceps*. Threats to this community include gypsum mining and
development. The range in the rank reflects the need for further
inventory and description of this community.

**Ranking Author:** J. Teague **Version:** 21-Dec-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is found only in the Trans-Pecos region of
Texas and possibly adjacent areas.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** TX

**TNC Ecoregions:** 24:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Diamond 1993, Powell and Turner 1974, Southeastern
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001077--*Artemisia filifolia / Bouteloua eriopoda* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Black Grama Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-black-grama-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-20 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Colorado Plateau Blackbrush-Mormon-tea Shrubland (CES304.763)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia/Bouteloua eriopoda* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 17-Jul-2000

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313E:CC, 315A:??, 321A:CC, M313B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dick-Peddie 1986, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL002177--*Artemisia filifolia / Calamovilfa longifolia* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Prairie Sandreed Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-prairie-sandreed-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Sand Sage / Prairie Sandreed Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: Midwest {#sand-sage-prairie-sandreed-shrubland-classif.-resp.-midwest .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
Midwest

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Midwestern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Western Great Plains Sandhill Shrubland (CES303.671)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sand sagebrush shrub type is found in the northwestern
Great Plains of the United States. Stands occur on sandhills, sandy
ridges and sandy valleys. Shrubs are between 0.5 and 1 m in height, with
cover typically greater than 20%. *Artemisia filifolia* is the dominant
shrub. The only shrub that becomes codominant with *Artemisia filifolia*
is *Yucca glauca*, and it typically occurs on lower sand ridges and
places where sandhills interface with nearly flat butte tops. Herbaceous
cover is sparse to moderate, typically consisting of *Bouteloua
gracilis, Calamovilfa longifolia, Sporobolus cryptandrus, Carex
filifolia*, and *Andropogon hallii*. Some stands may contain
*Schizachyrium scoparium*.

**Classification Comments:** More information is needed on this type in
South Dakota. It appears to be disjunct from the main range of the
*Artemisia filifolia* Shrubland Alliance (A.816). It may not deserve
separate association status, but may be a variant of *Artemisia
filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Shrubland (CEGL001459). Work at Badlands
National Park suggests a great deal of similarity with CEGL001459 (Von
Loh et al. 1999), though perhaps that type could be split into a more
northern Great Plains type that would be combined with this type and a
separate more southern Great Plains type (Steinauer and Rolfsmeier
2000). D. Ode (pers. comm. 1999) suggests that differences between
Nebraska stands and South Dakota stands could arise from a climatic
gradient that is less favorable to *Andropogon hallii* and other species
in South Dakota. A further complication is that, according to NRCS Range
Site Descriptions, the *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* type in
Nebraska can be modified to an *Artemisia filifolia / Calamovilfa
longifolia* type through heavy grazing, with a moderate increase in
shrub cover. A prescribed grazing regime, with perhaps periodic fire,
could reverse the trend. For these reasons, D. Ode suggests that these
two types be treated as one type, with the possibility that the
*Artemisia filifolia* stands dominated by *Calamovilfa longifolia* be
assigned a lower condition rank (at least in Nebraska).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Shrubland
    (CEGL001459)---*Andropogon hallii* occurs only rarely in CEGL002177,
    but the habitat is similar. Types could well be combined upon
    rangewide review.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Sand sagebrush shrublands are confined to the highest
sand hills and ridges; this type forms a mosaic with yucca shrub
grasslands (*Yucca glauca*) on some lower sand ridges and where sand
hills/ridges adjoin butte tops (Von Loh et al. 1999).

**Vegetation:** Sand sagebrush communities within Badlands National Park
have sparse to moderate cover, between 15-50%. Higher sandhills also
have a large proportion of bare sand to vegetation between individual
shrubs. The only shrub that becomes codominant with *Artemisia
filifolia* is *Yucca glauca*, and it typically occurs on lower sand
ridges and places where sandhills interface with nearly flat butte tops.
Herbaceous cover is sparse to moderate, typically consisting of
*Bouteloua gracilis, Calamovilfa longifolia, Sporobolus cryptandrus,
Carex filifolia*, and *Andropogon hallii*. Some stands may contain
*Schizachyrium scoparium* (Von Loh et al. 1999).

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** The sand sagebrush shrubland is confined to
sandhills of the Valentine association, and to a lesser extent, sand
ridges of the Anselmo association. It is on these sand ridges where
*Artemisia filifolia* (sand sagebrush) may form a mosaic with *Yucca
glauca* shrub grasslands, such as *Yucca glauca / Calamovilfa
longifolia* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL002675) (Von Loh et al.
1999).

**Description Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 26-Aug-1999

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G3 **GRank Review Date:** 31-Jan-2000

**GReasons:** This type is very localized in western South Dakota, where
it is found in sandy habitats in Badlands National Park on Red Shirt and
Blind Man Tables in the park\'s South Unit. A small amount of sand hills
habitat lies within park boundaries southeast of Sheep Mountain Table
and on the eastern edge of the Palmer Creek Unit (Von Loh et al. 1999).
Other occurrences have not been documented, but stands do occur in
Angostura State Recreation Area and elsewhere in Fall River County,
South Dakota. While development around the Black Hills is real and
growing, these landscapes are not yet threatened (D. Ode pers. comm.
2000).

**Ranking Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 28-Sep-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This sand sagebrush shrub type is found in the northwestern
Great Plains of the United States, particularly in western South Dakota.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** SD:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Badlands)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Midwestern Ecology Working Group n.d., Steinauer and
Rolfsmeier 2000, Von Loh et al. 1999

#### CEGL002178--*Artemisia filifolia / Schizachyrium scoparium - Andropogon hallii* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Little Bluestem - Sand Bluestem Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-little-bluestem---sand-bluestem-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Sand Sagebrush / Little Bluestem Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: Southeast {#sand-sagebrush-little-bluestem-shrubland-classif.-resp.-southeast .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Midwest, Southeast

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Jan-1995

**Concept Auth.:** C. Lauver and K. Kindscher, mod. D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Southeastern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Western Great Plains Sandhill Shrubland (CES303.671)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sand sagebrush type is found in the southern Great
Plains of the United States. Stands occur on sandy, rolling hills. Soils
are loamy fine sand to sands, excessively drained, and formed in loamy
or sandy aeolian sediments. The vegetation structure is 0.5-1 m
tall-shrub layer. The dominant shrub is *Artemisia filifolia*, with
*Yucca glauca* an occasional associate. Dominant graminoids are medium
tall and include *Andropogon hallii* and *Schizachyrium scoparium*.
Other associates include *Bouteloua curtipendula, Calamovilfa gigantea,
Cyperus schweinitzii*, and *Paspalum setaceum*. Herbs include *Eriogonum
annuum, Helianthus petiolaris*, and *Grindelia papposa (= Prionopsis
ciliata)*.

**Classification Comments:** This type should be compared with
*Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Shrubland (CEGL001459).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Shrubland (CEGL001459)

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus cryptandrus* Shrubland
    (CEGL002179)---a similar type also of Oklahoma.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands occur on sandy, rolling hills. Soils are loamy
fine sand to sands, excessively drained, and formed in loamy or sandy
aeolian sediments (Lauver et al. 1999).

**Vegetation:** The vegetation structure is 0.5-1 m tall shrub layer.
The dominant shrub is *Artemisia filifolia*, with *Yucca glauca* an
occasional associate. Dominant graminoids are medium tall, and include
*Andropogon hallii* and *Schizachyrium scoparium*. Other associates
include *Bouteloua curtipendula, Calamovilfa gigantea, Cyperus
schweinitzii*, and *Paspalum setaceum*. Herbs include *Eriogonum annuum,
Helianthus petiolaris*, and *Grindelia papposa (= Prionopsis ciliata)*
(Lauver et al. 1999).

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** C. Lauver and K. Kindscher, mod. D.
Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 31-Jan-2000

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 3-Oct-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 3-Oct-1996

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This sand sagebrush type is found in the southern Great
Plains of the United States, ranging from Kansas south to Texas.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** KS:SU, OK, TX:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 27:C, 28:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 315B:CP, 331B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baalman 1965, Blair and Hubbell 1938, Bruner 1931,
Diamond 1993, Duck and Fletcher 1945, Harlan 1957, Hoagland 2000, Jones
1963, Lauver et al. 1999, Osborn 1941, Osborn and Kellogg 1943, Sherwood
1980, Sherwood and Risser 1980, Smith 1998, Southeastern Ecology Working
Group n.d., Zanoni et al. 1979

#### CEGL002179--*Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus cryptandrus* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Sand Dropseed Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-sand-dropseed-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Sand Sage / Sand Dropseed Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#sand-sage-sand-dropseed-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
Southeast, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Great Plains Program 1-95

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Western Great Plains Sandhill Shrubland (CES303.671)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Andropogon hallii* Shrubland
    (CEGL001459)---also attributed to Oklahoma.

-   *Artemisia filifolia / Schizachyrium scoparium - Andropogon hallii*
    Shrubland (CEGL002178)---a very similar type from Oklahoma.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   Sandsage-Midgrass Series (Diamond 1993) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 15-Dec-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 15-Dec-1994

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association apparently ranges from Texas and New Mexico
to western Oklahoma(?).

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM, OK?, TX

**TNC Ecoregions:** 24:C, 28:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 315:C, 321:C

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baalman 1965, Blair and Hubbell 1938, Bruner 1931,
Diamond 1993, Duck and Fletcher 1945, Harlan 1957, Hoagland 2000, Jones
1963, Osborn 1941, Osborn and Kellogg 1943, Sherwood 1980, Sherwood and
Risser 1980, Smith 1998, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Zanoni et
al. 1979

#### CEGL001547--*Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus flexuosus* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Mesa Dropseed Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-mesa-dropseed-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-21 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   North American Warm Desert Active and Stabilized Dune (CES302.744)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia/Sporobolus flexuosus* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 17-Jul-2000

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dick-Peddie 1986, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL001078--*Artemisia filifolia / Sporobolus giganteus* Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush / Giant Dropseed Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-giant-dropseed-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Sand Sagebrush / Giant Dropseed Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#sand-sagebrush-giant-dropseed-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   North American Warm Desert Active and Stabilized Dune (CES302.744)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia filifolia/Sporobolus giganteus* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 17-Jul-2000

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313E:CC, 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dick-Peddie 1986, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL002697--*Artemisia filifolia* Colorado Plateau Shrubland

#### Sand Sagebrush Colorado Plateau Shrubland {#sand-sagebrush-colorado-plateau-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-22 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 14-Aug-2001

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Colorado Plateau Blackbrush-Mormon-tea Shrubland (CES304.763)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association has only been described from Zion National
Park. Until further inventory is completed there is no global
information.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 14-Aug-2001

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association has currently only been described from Zion
National Park in southwestern Utah.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Cogan et al. 2004, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1105--*Artemisia nova* Shrubland Alliance

### Black Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#black-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Associations within this alliance occur at intermediate
elevations (1500-2500 m) in the Intermountain and Rocky Mountain West, a
region of semi-arid, continental climate regime. Soils are typically
young, shallow, coarse-textured, and often derived from calcareous
parent materials. *Artemisia nova* associations occur on well-drained
slopes and ridges and often grow with other *Artemisia* associations on
deeper soils. In the Columbia River Basin, the vegetation in this
alliance occupies the driest habitats of all the *Artemisia*-dominated
alliances. This alliance is characterized by the dominance of the
dwarf-shrub *Artemisia nova*, which must contribute at least 40% of the
total shrub cover in any stand, and by cover of perennial graminoids
that is typically less than 20%. Associated shrub species that occur in
stands of this alliance include *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Atriplex
confertifolia, Artemisia tridentata, Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia
cana, Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Grayia spinosa, Purshia tridentata*,
and *Gutierrezia sarothrae*. The ground layer is dominated by perennial
bunch grasses which may exceed the height of the shrubs, but typically
have \<20% total cover. Recurrent species include *Pseudoroegneria
spicata, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Achnatherum
speciosum (= Stipa speciosa), Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa
thurberiana), Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Elymus elymoides,
Poa secunda*, and *Koeleria macrantha*. In southern stands, *Bouteloua
gracilis* and *Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii)* may also be
important. Common forbs include *Balsamorhiza sagittata, Senecio
integerrimus, Packera multilobata (= Senecio multilobatus), Stenotus
armerioides, Heterotheca villosa, Phlox hoodii, Sphaeralcea coccinea*,
and *Castilleja angustifolia*. At the edges of intermountain basins,
this alliance is usually contiguous with *Atriplex confertifolia*
shrublands.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1567)

-   *Pleuraphis jamesii* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1287)

-   *Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1532)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** The vegetation in this alliance is
distinguished from the vegetation in the *Artemisia nova* Shrub
Herbaceous Alliance (A.1567) by the cover of perennial graminoids being
less than 20% in this alliance. Shrub cover can be variable, but with
higher shrub cover there is typically less perennial graminoid cover,
due to grazing pressure or other disturbance. However, the distinction
between these two alliances is defined primarily by the cover of the
graminoids, and some stands of associations in the *Artemisia nova*
Shrubland Alliance (A.1105) may have \<25% cover of shrubs.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Black Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) ?

-   SRM Cover Type #405 - Black Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) =

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Associations within this alliance occur at intermediate
elevations (1500-2500 m) in the Intermountain and Rocky Mountain West.
The climate is semi-arid with 20-30 cm of annual precipitation. The
temperature regime is continental, with cold winters, warm summers, a
large diurnal temperature range, and a short frost-free season. Soils
are typically young, shallow, coarse-textured, and often derived from
calcareous parent materials. *Artemisia nova* associations occur on
well-drained slopes and ridges and often grow with other *Artemisia*
associations on deeper soils. In the Columbia River Basin, the
vegetation in this alliance occupies the driest habitats of all the
*Artemisia*-dominated alliances. At the edges of intermountain basins,
this alliance is usually contiguous with *Atriplex confertifolia*
shrublands (Hironaka 1978).

**Vegetation:** Associations within this alliance are united by the
dominance of the dwarf-shrub *Artemisia nova*, which must contribute at
least 40% of the total shrub cover in any stand, and by cover of
perennial graminoids that is typically less than 20%. Associated shrub
species that occur in stands of this alliance include *Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Atriplex confertifolia, Artemisia tridentata, Artemisia
arbuscula, Artemisia cana, Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Grayia spinosa,
Purshia tridentata*, and *Gutierrezia sarothrae*. The ground layer is
dominated by perennial bunch grasses which may exceed the height of the
shrubs, but typically have \<20% total cover. Recurrent species include
*Pseudoroegneria spicata, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Achnatherum speciosum (= Stipa speciosa), Achnatherum
thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana), Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata), Elymus elymoides, Poa secunda*, and *Koeleria macrantha*. In
southern stands, *Bouteloua gracilis* and *Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria
jamesii)* may also be important. Common forbs include *Balsamorhiza
sagittata, Senecio integerrimus, Phlox hoodii, Sphaeralcea coccinea*,
and *Castilleja angustifolia*.

**Dynamics:** This shrubland alliance is associated with shallow, rocky
soils which experience extreme drought in summer. The plants are low and
widely spaced, which tends to decrease the risk of fire (Chappell et al.
1997). Barbour and Major (1977) report that *Artemisia nova* is utilized
by livestock to a much greater degree than other species of *Artemisia*,
resulting in low, pruned plants. *Artemisia nova* dwarf-shrublands grow
in more xeric sites than other *Artemisia* shrublands. Blackburn and
Tueller (1970) noted rapid invasion of these communities by *Juniperus
osteosperma* and *Pinus monophylla* in Nevada, citing overgrazing
coupled with fire suppression, and possibly climate change as causative
variables.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Associations in this alliance occur in the mountains of the
Mojave Desert, throughout the Great Basin, and east into western and
central Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, and northwestern New Mexico. It also
occurs in the upper Columbia River Basin of southeastern Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 17:C, 18:C, 19:C, 20:C,
26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 322A:CC, 331F:CC, 331J:CC, 341A:CC,
341C:CC, 341E:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342F:CC, M261:C,
M331A:CC, M331B:CC, M331D:CC, M331E:CC, M331G:CC, M331I:CC, M331J:CC,
M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Dinosaur, Zion); USFS (Bighorn, Shoshone); USFWS
(Ouray)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1983c, Baker 1983d, Baker and Kennedy 1985,
Barbour and Major 1977, Beatley 1976, Blackburn and Tueller 1970,
Blackburn et al. 1968c, Blackburn et al. 1969d, Blackburn et al. 1971,
Brotherson and Brotherson 1979, Caicco and Wellner 1983f, Chappell et
al. 1997, Fautin 1946, Fisser 1962, Fisser 1970, Francis 1986, Heinze et
al. 1962, Hironaka 1978, Hironaka et al. 1983, Hughes 1977, Jensen et
al. 1988a, Johnston 1987, Leary and Peterson 1984, Lewis 1975a, Lucky
McMine Application n.d., Milton and Purdy 1983, ORNHP unpubl. data,
Peterson 1984, Rickard and Beatley 1965, Roberts et al. 1992, Sawyer and
Keeler-Wolf 1995, Shiflet 1994, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Tweit
and Houston 1980, Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL002773--*Artemisia nova - Ericameria nana* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush - Dwarf Heath-goldenrod Shrubland {#black-sagebrush---dwarf-heath-goldenrod-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Black sagebrush Dwarf-shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#black-sagebrush-dwarf-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 25-Jun-2001

**Concept Auth.:** D. Pritchett

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Great Basin Foothill and Lower Montane Riparian Woodland and
    Shrubland (CES304.045)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** D. Pritchett **Version:** 1-Apr-2000

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 25-Jun-2001

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Pritchett pers. comm., Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001419--*Artemisia nova - Gutierrezia sarothrae / Bouteloua gracilis - Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush - Snakeweed / Blue Grama - James\' Galleta Shrubland {#black-sagebrush---snakeweed-blue-grama---james-galleta-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-23 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova-Gutierrezia sarothrae/Bouteloua gracilis-Hilaria
    jamesii* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331J:CC, M331G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Francis 1986, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001422--*Artemisia nova / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush / Indian Ricegrass Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-indian-ricegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-24 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova/Oryzopsis hymenoides* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994)
    =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1, NV:S4S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1969d, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Jensen et al. 1988a, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL001418--*Artemisia nova / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush / Bottlebrush Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-bottlebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-25 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is found in the foothills, plateaus and
mountains of Nevada and Utah. Stands occur on well-drained slopes,
knolls and ridges. Substrates are typically shallow, gravelly or stony
soils derived from calcareous parent materials such as limestone. These
soils are frequently coarse-textured, but subsoil argillic horizons are
common. There is often an impenetrable subsurface layer from a duripan,
caliche, or bedrock. *Artemisia nova* plants often grow in adjacent
*Artemisia tridentata* shrublands that are found on deeper soils in
basins. Combined ground cover of bare ground, rock and gravel is often
high (about 70% cover). Litter is concentrated under the shrub canopies.
The vegetation is characterized by an open dwarf-shrub canopy (10-30%
cover) that is dominated by *Artemisia nova* and a sparse herbaceous
layer dominated by the perennial graminoid *Elymus elymoides* with
scattered forbs. *Atriplex confertifolia, Artemisia tridentata,
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ephedra nevadensis, Ephedra viridis*, and
*Grayia spinosa* are common shrub associates that may be present in
smaller amounts. The herbaceous layer includes low cover of species of
*Comandra, Cryptantha, Erigeron, Eriogonum, Machaeranthera, Phlox,
Penstemon*, and *Poa secunda*. Introduced annual graminoids such as
*Bromus rubens* and *Bromus tectorum* are common in disturbed stands.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula nova* Habitat Types (Lewis 1975a) =

-   *Artemisia nova/Atriplex confertifolia/Sitanion hystrix* Community
    Type (Jensen et al. 1988a) =

-   *Artemisia nova/Elymus elymoides* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia nova* Association (Ostler et al. 2000) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata-A. arbuscula* subsp. *nova* mosaic (Rickard
    and Beatley 1965) B

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association is found in the foothills, plateaus
and mountains of Nevada and Utah. Elevation ranges from 1525-2200 m
(5000-7200 feet). Stands occur on well-drained slopes and ridges. Soils
are typically shallow, gravelly or stony, and often are derived from
calcareous parent materials such as limestone. Soil is often
coarse-textured, and subsoil argillic horizons are common. There is
often an impenetrable subsurface layer from a duripan, caliche, or
bedrock. *Artemisia nova* plants often grow in adjacent *Artemisia
tridentata* shrublands that are found on deeper soils in basins.
Combined ground cover of bare ground, rock and gravel is often high
(about 70% cover). Litter is concentrated under the shrub canopies.

**Vegetation:** This association is characterized by an open dwarf-shrub
canopy (10-30% cover) that is dominated by *Artemisia nova* and a sparse
herbaceous layer dominated by the perennial graminoid *Elymus elymoides*
with scattered forbs. *Atriplex confertifolia, Artemisia tridentata,
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ephedra nevadensis, Ephedra viridis*, and
*Grayia spinosa* are common shrub associates that may be present in
smaller amounts. Other herbaceous species include *Comandra umbellata
ssp. pallida (= Comandra pallida), Cryptantha* spp., *Erigeron* spp.,
*Eriogonum microthecum, Machaeranthera canescens, Phlox longifolia,
Penstemon* spp., and *Poa secunda*. Introduced annual graminoids such as
*Bromus rubens* and *Bromus tectorum* are common in disturbed stands.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia nova* is readily killed by all fire
intensities, does not sprout after burning, and is slow to re-invade by
seed from off-site sources (Tisdale and Hironaka 1981, Wright et al.
1997). Generally, fire is not a significant ecological process of
*Artemisia nova*-dominated communities because the sparse vegetation
precludes the occurrence of fire (Wright et al. 1997). Fire frequency
may increase because invasion of introduced annual grasses, such as
*Bromus tectorum* or *Bromus rubens*, provides fine fuel that allows
fires to spread.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 16-Jan-2002

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 23-Feb-1994

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This dwarf-shrubland association occurs in the foothills,
plateaus and mountains of Nevada and Utah at elevations above 1525 m
(5000 feet).

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S4S5, UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C, 18:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Cogan et al. 2004,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Jensen et al. 1988a, Lewis 1975a, Ostler et al.
2000, Rickard and Beatley 1965, Tisdale and Hironaka 1981, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d., Wright et al. 1979

#### CEGL001425--*Artemisia nova / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-26 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is found in the foothills, plateaus and
mountains of Nevada, Idaho, and Utah. It also occurs in northwestern
Colorado. Stands occur on flat mesatops, benches and plains or on steep
pediment slopes, knolls and ridges, and elevations range from 1890 to
2530 m. Aspects are often southern. Substrates are typically shallow,
stony soils often derived from calcareous parent materials such as
limestone. Soil textures are variable and range from sandy, loamy,
fine-textured or skeletal; argillic subsoil horizons are common. There
is often an impenetrable subsurface layer from a duripan, caliche, or
bedrock. Combined ground cover of bare ground, rock and gravel is often
high (about 70% cover). Litter is concentrated under the shrub canopies.
The vegetation is characterized by an open dwarf-shrub canopy (10-30%
cover) that is dominated by *Artemisia nova* and a sparse herbaceous
layer dominated by the perennial graminoid *Hesperostipa comata* with
scattered forbs. Scattered *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ericameria
parryi, Grayia spinosa, Krascheninnikovia lanata*, and *Tetradymia
canescens* are common shrub associates that may be present in smaller
amounts. *Achnatherum hymenoides, Elymus elymoides, Koeleria macrantha,
Pleuraphis jamesii, Poa fendleriana*, or *Poa secunda* may be present in
the herbaceous layer but have sparse cover. Forbs include species of
*Astragalus, Erigeron, Eriogonum, Packera, Phlox*, and *Penstemon*.
Introduced annual graminoids such as *Bromus rubens* and *Bromus
tectorum* are common in disturbed stands.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova - Stipa comata* Habitat Type (Zamora and
    Tueller 1973) B

-   *Artemisia nova / Stipa comata* Association (Baker and Kennedy 1985)
    =

-   *Artemisia nova / Stipa comata* Community (Blackburn et al. 1968c) =
    *Artemisia nova / Stipa comata* Plant Community (Roberts et
    al. 1992) =

-   *Artemisia nova/Stipa comata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Stipa comata* Habitat Type (Hironaka et
    al. 1983) B

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association is found in the foothills, plateaus
and mountains of Nevada and Utah. Elevation ranges from 1890-2530 m
(6200-8300 feet). In Nevada, stands possibly could be found as low as
1676 m (5500 feet) elevation. Stands occur on flat mesatops, benches and
plains or on steep pediment slopes and ridges. Aspects are often
southern. Soils are typically shallow, stony, and often derived from
calcareous parent materials such as limestone. Soil textures are
variable and range from sandy, loamy, fine-textured or skeletal;
argillic subsoil horizons are common. There is often an impenetrable
subsurface layer from a duripan, caliche, or bedrock. *Artemisia nova*
plants often grow in adjacent *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands that are
found on deeper soils in basins. Combined ground cover of bare ground,
rock and gravel is often high (about 70% cover). Litter is concentrated
under the shrub canopies.

**Vegetation:** This association is characterized by an open dwarf-shrub
canopy (10-30% cover) that is dominated by *Artemisia nova* and a sparse
herbaceous layer dominated by the perennial graminoid *Hesperostipa
comata* with scattered forbs. Scattered *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus,
Ericameria parryi, Grayia spinosa, Krascheninnikovia lanata*, and
*Tetradymia canescens* are common shrub associates that may be present
in smaller amounts. *Achnatherum hymenoides, Elymus elymoides, Koeleria
macrantha, Pleuraphis jamesii, Poa fendleriana*, or *Poa secunda* may be
present in the herbaceous layer but have sparse cover. Other herbaceous
species include *Astragalus* spp., *Erigeron* spp., *Eriogonum
racemosum, Leptodactylon pungens, Packera multilobata, Phlox
longifolia*, and *Penstemon* spp. Introduced annual graminoids such as
*Bromus rubens* and *Bromus tectorum* are common in disturbed stands.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia nova* is readily killed by all fire
intensities, does not sprout after burning, and is slow to re-invade by
seed from off-site sources (Wright et al. 1979, Tisdale and Hironaka
1981,). Generally, fire is not a significant ecological process of
*Artemisia nova*-dominated communities because the sparse vegetation
precludes the occurrence of fire (Wright et al. 1979). Fire frequency
may be increased by the invasion of introduced annual grasses, such as
*Bromus tectorum* or *Bromus rubens*, which provide fine fuels that
allow fires to spread. The common associate *Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus* does sprout after fire and may replace *Artemisia nova*
where fires are more frequent (Roberts et al. 1992).

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 17-May-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 26-Feb-2004

**GReasons:** This dwarf-shrubland association is present in the
southern part of the Intermountain Region above 1890 m (6200 feet). This
includes northern Utah and Nevada and southeastern Idaho, where small
stands occur on southern aspects of flat mesatops, benches and plains,
or on steep pediment slopes, knolls and ridges. The number, condition,
and size of stands have been declining due to intensive range
management, introduction of exotic species, alteration of fire regime,
and road development from off-road vehicles (ORV). Remote stands are
mostly being threatened through range management of livestock. These
stands become more exposed to exotic weed invasion and lose the presence
of perennial grasses and soil crust. Fire frequency is increased by the
invasion of introduced annual grasses, such as *Bromus tectorum* or
*Bromus rubens*, which provide fine fuels that allow fires to spread.

**Ranking Author:** J.J. Miller **Version:** 17-May-2004

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This dwarf-shrubland association is present in the southern
part of the Intermountain Region above 1890 m (6200 feet). This includes
northern Utah and Nevada and southeastern Idaho. The association also
occurs in northwestern Colorado in Jackson and Moffit counties.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2?, ID:S1, NV:S2S3, UT:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 11:C, 18:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, 342D:C?, M331E:CC, M332F:??,
M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Dinosaur, Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker and Kennedy 1985, Blackburn et al. 1968c,
Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Cogan et al. 2004, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hironaka et al. 1983, Roberts et al. 1992, Tisdale and Hironaka 1981,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Wright et al. 1979, Zamora and
Tueller 1973

#### CEGL001420--*Artemisia nova / Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush / James\' Galleta Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-james-galleta-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-27 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

-   *Pleuraphis jamesii* Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001777)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova/Hilaria jamesii* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** UT:S3S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Fautin 1946, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002698--*Artemisia nova / Poa fendleriana* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush / Muttongrass Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-muttongrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-28 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.: Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 14-Aug-2001

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association has only been described from Zion National
Park. Until further inventory is completed there is no global
information.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 14-Aug-2001

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association has currently only been described from Zion
National Park in southwestern Utah.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 18:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Cogan et al. 2004, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001423--*Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-29 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** C. Murphy

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association is discontinuously distributed from
southeastern Oregon to southeastern and central Idaho. It is purported
to occur in California and expected to occur in northern Nevada and
Utah. The association has been reported from a wide variety of habitats
at elevations ranging from about 1525 m (5000 feet) on the Snake River
Plain of eastern Idaho to 2745 m (9000 feet) in the Boulder Mountains of
central Idaho. Stands are on shallow, rocky, and gravelly calcareous
soils that are often, but not always, of volcanic origin. The plant
association has not been formerly described in publications. Although it
is often in mosaic with *Artemisia tridentata* or *Juniperus* spp.
stands, this association does not support significant cover or
reproduction of these species, nor perennial grasses other than *Poa
secunda*. Some (but not all) stands may represent overgrazed stands of
*Artemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland (CEGL001424). Based
on surveys of *Juniperus osteosperma / Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* in
southern Idaho, adjacent *Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* stands are
expected to have low amounts of other shrubs, such as *Artemisia
arbuscula, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*, and *Eriogonum microthecum*.
Other herbs to be expected in these stands include perennial grasses,
such as *Achnatherum* spp. and *Elymus elymoides*, and forbs common on
shallow soils, such as *Balsamorhiza hookeri, Castilleja* spp.,
*Eriogonum* spp., and *Penstemon* spp.

**Classification Comments:** This plant association has not been
formerly described in any publication. It is probably distinct from
other *Artemisia nova* associations in lacking significant cover of
perennial grasses other than *Poa secunda* (e.g., *Festuca idahoensis*
and *Pseudoroegneria spicata*). In south-central and southeastern Idaho,
the plant association is often observed in a mosaic with *Juniperus
osteosperma* associations (IDCDC 2001). In such mosaic areas of Idaho
and Nevada, researchers have recognized a *Juniperus osteosperma /
Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* plant association (Rust 1999). This
association may have as little as 1% cover of *Juniperus osteosperma*,
though its presence is used to indicate the site\'s potential.
*Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* Shrubland (CEGL001423) lacks reproducing
*Juniperus osteosperma* or other *Juniperus* spp. Hironaka et al. (1983)
notes the replacement of *Pseudoroegneria spicata* by *Poa secunda* in
overgrazed stands of *Artemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
Shrubland (CEGL001424). It is possible that some, but probably not all,
stands of *Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* are early seral.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland (CEGL001424)

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** C. Murphy **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 19-Jan-2001

**GReasons:** Within the range of *Artemisia nova*, this plant
association is infrequently observed and has a discontinuous
distribution. The association is likely restricted to shallow, rocky
soil sites unable to support *Festuca idahoensis* and *Pseudoroegneria
spicata*. It is the most common *Artemisia nova* association mapped in
southeastern Oregon, but is not common in Idaho. In addition, it has not
been documented in Nevada or Utah where *Artemisia nova* stands are
relatively common, nor is it known from the Owyhee Plateau of
southwestern Idaho. Numerous stands are currently protected, though some
low-elevation sites with *Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* are at risk to
*Bromus tectorum* invasion and subsequent wildfire. There are currently
only 15-30 estimated occurrences of this association, and documentation
of threats or condition trends are lacking. Further sampling and field
assessment of the plant association is needed.

**Ranking Author:** C. Murphy **Version:** 19-Jan-2001

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** *Artemisia nova* associations are widely distributed
throughout the western United States. This plant association, however,
is apparently an uncommon *Artemisia nova* type. It is found in
southeastern Oregon and again in central, south-central, and
southeastern Idaho (IDCDC 2001, ORNHP 2001). In Idaho, the association
is known from the Boulder Mountains in Custer County, Cassia County
(near the Utah border), Bannock County (in the Portneuf Range), and at
Menan Buttes on the Snake River Plain. It is purported to occur in
California and is expected to occur in (but not documented in) northern
Nevada and Utah.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, ID:S3, NV?, OR:S2, UT?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, M331D:CC, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983f,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, IDCDC unpubl. data, ORNHP
unpubl. data, Rust 1999, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001424--*Artemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Black Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Dwarf-shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#black-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-dwarf-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

-   Wyoming Basins Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.794)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* Shrubland (CEGL001423)

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2?, ID:S3, MT:S3, NV:S4S5, OR:S2, WY:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342F:CC,
M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331I:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Bighorn, Shoshone)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Blackburn et al.
1968c, Blackburn et al. 1971, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Fisser 1962, Fisser 1970, Hughes 1977, Jones and Ogle 2000,
Lucky McMine Application n.d., Soil Conservation Service 1978, Tweit and
Houston 1980, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Zamora and Tueller
1973

#### CEGL001417--*Artemisia nova* Shrubland

#### Black Sagebrush Shrubland {#black-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-30 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This broadly defined association is reported from eastern
Wyoming to eastern California but may be found elsewhere in the interior
western U.S. Stands occur at middle to upper elevations (1400-2730 m) on
mountain and hill slopes, ridges, mesa tops, alluvial fans and river
bluffs. Sites are nearly level to moderately sloping; aspects are
variable. Soils are shallow (often \<30 cm deep), well-drained, and
coarse-textured with high cover (35-70% cover) of gravel and cobbles
(desert pavement). Soil texture ranges from gravelly loam to sandy clay
loam. The vegetation is characterized by an open to moderately dense
(12-40% cover) dwarf-shrub layer (\<0.5 m tall) that is dominated by
*Artemisia nova*. Other woody species present include *Picrothamnus
desertorum (= Artemisia spinescens), Atriplex confertifolia,
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ericameria nauseosa, Ephedra* spp., *Grayia
spinosa, Krascheninnikovia lanata*, and *Opuntia erinacea*. Diagnostic
of this community is a sparse herbaceous understory with only scattered
grasses and forbs. Common grasses may include *Achnatherum hymenoides,
Aristida purpurea, Hesperostipa comata, Pleuraphis jamesii*, and *Poa
secunda*. Forbs such as *Erysimum capitatum (= Erysimum asperum),
Erigeron aphanactis*, and *Phlox viridis* may also be present. Scattered
trees may be present, such as *Juniperus osteosperma, Pinus monophylla*,
or *Yucca brevifolia*, depending on location. Introduced species are
important in some stands and may include *Bromus tectorum, Salsola
kali*, and *Halogeton glomeratus*.

**Classification Comments:** This wide-ranging and broadly defined
association is distinguished from other *Artemisia nova*
dwarf-shrublands by the lack of a significant graminoid layer and
therefore is quite variable in species composition. Blackburn et al.
(1968c) described an *Artemisia nova / Bromus tectorum* association that
may be included here until a new *Artemisia nova / Bromus tectorum*
Shrubland association is created in the USNVC.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova - Gutierrezia sarothrae / Bouteloua gracilis -
    Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland (CEGL001419)

-   *Artemisia nova / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland (CEGL001422)

-   *Artemisia nova / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland (CEGL001418)

-   *Artemisia nova / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001524)

-   *Artemisia nova / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland (CEGL001425)

-   *Artemisia nova / Leymus salinus* ssp. *salmonis* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001421)

-   *Artemisia nova / Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland (CEGL001420)

-   *Artemisia nova / Poa secunda* Shrubland (CEGL001423)

-   *Artemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland (CEGL001424)

-   *Grayia spinosa / Artemisia nova / Achnatherum speciosum* Shrubland
    (CEGL001344)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia nova* Association (Leary and Peterson 1984) =

-   *Artemisia nova* Association (Peterson 1984) =

-   *Artemisia nova* Community (Blackburn et al. 1968c) =

-   *Artemisia nova* communities (Beatley 1976) B

-   Black Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) B DRISCOLL
    FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This broadly defined dwarf-shrubland association is
reported from eastern Wyoming to eastern California but may be found
elsewhere in the interior western U.S. Stands occur at middle to upper
elevations (1400-2730 m) on mountain and hill slopes, ridges, mesa tops,
alluvial fans and river bluffs. Sites are nearly level to moderately
sloping; aspects are variable, but stands are reported from northwestern
slope. Soils are often shallow (\<30 cm deep), well-drained, calcareous
and coarse-textured with high cover (35-70% cover) of gravel and cobbles
(desert pavement). Soil texture ranges from gravelly loam to sandy clay
loam. Adjacent vegetation includes *Juniperus osteosperma*-dominated
woodlands.

**Vegetation:** This association has an open to moderately dense (12-40%
cover) dwarf-shrub layer (\<0.5 m tall) that is dominated by *Artemisia
nova*. Other woody species present include *Picrothamnus desertorum (=
Artemisia spinescens), Atriplex confertifolia, Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Ericameria nauseosa, Ephedra nevadensis, Ephedra
torreyana, Ephedra viridis, Grayia spinosa, Krascheninnikovia lanata*,
and *Opuntia erinacea*. Diagnostic of this community is a sparse
herbaceous understory with only scattered grasses and forbs. Common
grasses may include *Achnatherum hymenoides, Aristida purpurea,
Hesperostipa comata, Pleuraphis jamesii*, and *Poa secunda*. Forbs such
as *Erysimum capitatum (= Erysimum asperum), Erigeron aphanactis*, and
*Phlox viridis* may be present. Scattered *Juniperus osteosperma, Pinus
monophylla*, and *Yucca brevifolia* may be present in eastern Mojave
stands such as Cottonwood Mountains in Death Valley National Park in
California. Introduced species are important in some stands and may
include *Bromus tectorum, Salsola kali*, and *Halogeton glomeratus*.

**Dynamics:** Beatley (1976) observed *Artemisia nova* communities above
the *Coleogyne ramosissima* and *Atriplex confertifolia* Zones and below
the Pinyon-Juniper Zone in the Great Basin. Milton and Purdy (1983)
found *Artemisia nova* common on hydrothermally altered rocks of the
Harmony Formation at the Battle Mountain study site in Utah. They
reported that altered soils had lower total vegetation cover, higher pH
and more kaolinite and less illite than the unaltered sites, but could
not explain why *Artemisia nova* replaced *Artemisia tridentata* on the
altered sites.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:** Adjacent vegetation includes
*Juniperus osteosperma*-dominated woodlands.

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 10-Jul-2001

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 23-Feb-1994

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association occurs from eastern Wyoming to eastern
California.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, NV, UT:S3S5, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 17:C, 20:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 322:C, 331F:CC, 341C:CC, 342B:CC, 342F:C?, M261:C,
M331A:CC, M331B:C?, M331I:C?, M331J:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFWS (Ouray)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Beatley 1976, Blackburn et al. 1968c, Bourgeron and
Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Heinze et al. 1962, Leary and
Peterson 1984, Milton and Purdy 1983, Peterson 1984, Sawyer and
Keeler-Wolf 1995, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.2606--*Artemisia pycnocephala* Shrubland Alliance

### Beach Wormwood Shrubland Alliance {#beach-wormwood-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found in California.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 15:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 263A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Point Reyes)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:**

#### CEGL003182--*Artemisia pycnocephala - Cardionema ramosissimum* Shrubland

#### Beach Wormwood - Sandcarpet Shrubland {#beach-wormwood---sandcarpet-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-31 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 6-Mar-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 6-Mar-2003

**GReasons:** *Artemisia pycnocephala* stands similar to the local
stands are probably distributed in the major dune systems in northern
and central California. However, many such stands are of small extent
and of low quality due to invasive exotics.

**Ranking Author:** T. Keeler-Wolf **Version:** 6-Mar-2003

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is only known from the vicinity of the Point
Reyes National Seashore. Information about its global range is not
available without additional inventory. Other stands of *Artemisia
pycnocephala*-dominated coastal dune vegetation occur from Humboldt
County to at least Monterey County in California. This is a newly
described alliance as well as association, and further data are needed
on distribution and composition throughout its range. Previously it was
considered a phase of the *Ambrosia chamissonis* Herbaceous Alliance
(A.1614) (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Pickart and Sawyer 1999),
however, the general absence of *Ambrosia chamissonis* from many stands
in the Point Reyes/Golden Gate mapping area suggests that this alliance
should be segregated.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 15:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 263A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Point Reyes)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Pickart and Sawyer 1998, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.830--*Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrubland Alliance

### (Basin Big Sagebrush, Foothill Big Sagebrush) Shrubland Alliance {#basin-big-sagebrush-foothill-big-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** These shrublands occur throughout the Intermountain West
from the western Great Basin to the northern Rocky Mountains and
Colorado Plateau. Sites supporting this alliance include sloping fans,
footslopes, rolling hills, and deep, well-drained alluvial bottomlands.
Soils are deep, fine- to medium-textured alluvial soils with some source
of subirrigation during the summer season, but moderately deep upland
soils with ample moisture storage also support these shrublands. Some
stands occur on deep, sandy soils, or soils that are highly calcareous.
The vegetation included in this alliance is characterized by a somewhat
sparse to moderately dense (10-70% cover) shrub layer of *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis*.
Shrub associates include *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus
nauseosus)* or *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus* which increase with
disturbance. Other shrubs occasionally present include *Purshia
tridentata, Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Tetradymia
canescens, Sarcobatus vermiculatus*, and *Atriplex* spp. Occasionally
individual trees are present in some stands. The relatively sparse
herbaceous layer is dominated by bunch grasses (\<20% cover) that occupy
patches in the shrub matrix. The most widespread species is
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*, which occurs from the Columbia Basin to the
northern Rockies. Other locally dominant or important species include
*Leymus cinereus, Festuca idahoensis, Pascopyrum smithii, Elymus
lanceolatus, Elymus elymoides, Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii),
Koeleria macrantha, Muhlenbergia richardsonis, Hesperostipa comata (=
Stipa comata)*, and *Poa secunda*. Forbs are generally of low importance
and are highly variable across the range. Mosses and lichens are
important ground cover in some stands. Diagnostic of this alliance is
the *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata*- or *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. xericensis*-dominated shrub layer that lacks a significant
graminoid layer (\<20% cover perennial graminoids) or has over 40% total
cover of shrubs.

**Classification Comments:** Stands included in this alliance occur in
environments (climate or substrates) that limited the growth of
perennial graminoids or may be the result heavy livestock grazing
depleting the perennial graminoid layer of stands of *Artemisia
tridentata (ssp. tridentata, ssp. xericensis)* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
(A.1522).

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1522)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance (A.829)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2555)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1527)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

-   *Pleuraphis jamesii* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1287)

-   *Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1532)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other similar *Artemisia tridentata* alliances by the
nominal subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* and by the lack of a
significant perennial graminoid layer (\<20% cover) in the shrubland
alliances. This alliance contains stands dominated by *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis*.
The cover of either of these must contribute at least 40% of the total
sagebrush shrub cover to be included in this alliance.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Big Sagebrush Scrub (Holland 1986b) I

-   Big Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   SRM Cover Type #401 - Basin Big Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) =

-   Western Shrub and Grasslands Combinations: 55: Sagebrush-Steppe
    (*Artemisia-Agropyron*) (Kuchler 1964) I

-   Western Shrub: 38: Great Basin Sagebrush (*Artemisia*)
    (Kuchler 1964) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance occurs throughout the Intermountain West
from the western Great Basin to the northern Rocky Mountains and
Colorado Plateau at elevations ranging from 240 m in the Columbia Basin
up to 2500 m. The climate where this alliance occurs is semi-arid with
annual precipitation ranging from 18-40 cm and high inter-annual
variation. Much of the precipitation falls as snow, and growing-season
drought is characteristic. Temperatures are continental with large
annual and diurnal variation. In drier regions, these shrublands are
usually associated with perennial or ephemeral stream drainages with
water tables less than 3 m from the soil surface. Sites supporting this
alliance include sloping fans, footslopes, rolling hills, swales, draws,
and deep, well-drained alluvial bottomlands. Soils are deep, fine- to
medium-textured alluvial soils with some source of subirrigation during
the summer season, but moderately deep upland soils with ample moisture
storage also support these shrublands. Some stands occur on deep, sandy
soils, or soils that are highly calcareous (Hironaka et al. 1983).
Although this alliance may grade into sites with alkaline soils at the
edge of internally drained basins, *Artemisia tridentata* is a
non-halophyte and requires low salinity for optimum growth. The
importance of perennial bunch grasses, the most typical herbaceous
associates, is favored with greater spring and summer rain, which
increases northward and eastward. Because of the deep alluvial soils,
stands have been converted to agriculture in much of the range of the
alliance. Adjacent vegetation is highly variable, but some common
adjacents include *Juniperus occidentalis*-, *Pinus ponderosa*-, and
*Cercocarpus ledifolius*-dominated woodlands, as well as shrublands
dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*.

**Vegetation:** The plant associations in this widespread western
shrubland alliance are characterized by a somewhat sparse to moderately
dense (10-70% cover) shrub layer of *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
tridentata* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis*. The height of the
shrub layer ranges from about 0.5 m to close to 2 m. *Ericameria
nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)* and/or *Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus* are almost always present and increase with disturbance.
Other shrubs occasionally present include *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Grayia spinosa,
Tetradymia canescens, Purshia tridentata, Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia
sarothrae, Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Artemisia frigida*, and *Atriplex*
spp. Trees are very rarely present in this alliance, but scattered
individuals of *Pinus ponderosa, Juniperus scopulorum, Juniperus
occidentalis* or *Cercocarpus ledifolius* may occur. The herbaceous
layer is relatively sparse and typically dominated by bunch grasses
which occupy patches in the shrub matrix, or may form a matrix
surrounding the shrubs. There is typically less than 20% cover of
perennial graminoids, although the cover of exotic annual grasses, such
as *Bromus tectorum*, may be very high (\>20% in some cases). The most
widespread species is *Pseudoroegneria spicata*, which occurs from the
Columbia Basin to the northern Rockies. Other locally dominant or
important species include *Leymus cinereus, Festuca idahoensis,
Pascopyrum smithii, Elymus lanceolatus, Elymus elymoides, Hesperostipa
comata (= Stipa comata), Koeleria macrantha, Muhlenbergia richardsonis,
Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Bouteloua gracilis*, and *Poa
secunda*. Forbs are generally of low importance and are highly variable
across the range, but may be diverse in some stands. Species that often
occur are *Symphyotrichum falcatum var. crassulum (= Aster adscendens)*
and *Collinsia parviflora* in Nevada, *Penstemon caespitosus* in
north-central Colorado, *Achillea millefolium, Erigeron compositus,
Packera cana (= Senecio canus)*, and *Taraxacum officinale* in
southwestern Montana, and *Cordylanthus ramosus* in southwestern
Wyoming. Other important genera include *Astragalus, Oenothera,
Eriogonum*, and *Balsamorhiza*. Mosses and lichens may be important
ground cover, and a cryptogamic soil crust is present and will cover the
ground surface in undisturbed stands. Diagnostic of this alliance is the
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata*- or *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
xericensis*-dominated shrub layer that lacks a significant graminoid
layer (\<20% cover perennial graminoids) or has over 40% total cover of
shrubs.

**Dynamics:** Complex ecological interactions between fire regimes,
grazing history, and climate patterns result in equally complex patterns
of species structure and composition in *Artemisia tridentata* stands.
These present corresponding difficulties in the classification of these
shrublands, which have been compounded by the influence of human
settlement and agricultural patterns. What follows is a summary of some
of the influences of altered fire regimes and grazing history on
*Artemisia tridentata* shrublands and shrub herbaceous vegetation.

*Artemisia tridentata* is inhibited by fire, and excessive grazing may
decrease fire frequency due to consumption of herbaceous forage,
resulting in increased shrub density. Conversely, invasion by non-native
annual grasses (e.g., *Bromus tectorum*) may increase fire frequency
sufficiently to eliminate the shrubs from the stands (Daubenmire 1970).
With a change in fire frequency, species composition will be altered as
well (West 1983). With a high fire frequency, every 2-5 years, perennial
grasses and shrubs are eliminated and non-native annual grasses
dominate. At fire-return intervals of 10-30 years, short-lived
resprouting shrubs such as *Chrysothamnus* or *Tetradymia* spp.
dominate. At fire intervals of 30-70 years, a mixture of perennial bunch
grasses and shrubs is maintained. Finally, in the complete absence of
fire, deep-rooted shrubs such as *Artemisia tridentata* become the
dominant shrubs.

This alliance is often found in seasonal or intermittent stream
drainages. Currently, it can often be found on the benches of perennial
steams which have become restricted to a downcut channel, although these
are generally in poor condition with a *Bromus tectorum* understory. It
is likely that these habitats are a result of livestock grazing impacts.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance has been documented from every state in the
western United States, except Arizona and New Mexico. Undoubtedly, it
occurs in these two states, but is not documented.

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** AZ?, BC?, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM?, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 17:C, 18:C, 19:C, 20:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 313B:CC, 331D:??, 331G:??, 341:C, 342A:CC,
342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC, 342H:C?, 342I:CC, M261G:CC,
M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331G:CP, M331H:CC, M332B:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC,
M332G:CC, M341B:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Zion); USFS (Shoshone)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1982b, Baker 1983b, Baker 1984a, Barbour and Major
1988, Barrows et al. 1977, Blackburn 1967, Blackburn et al. 1968c,
Branson et al. 1976, Caicco and Wellner 1983f, Caicco and Wellner 1983k,
Chappell et al. 1997, Daubenmire 1970, DeVelice and Lesica 1993, Donart
et al. 1978b, Francis 1983, Francis 1986, Francis and Aldon 1983, Hess
1981, Hironaka 1978, Hironaka et al. 1983, Holland 1986b, Jensen et al.
1988a, Keammerer 1977, Kittel et al. 1994, Kittel et al. 1999a, Kuchler
1964, McArthur and Welch 1986, McLean 1970, Mooney 1985, Mueggler and
Stewart 1980, Northcutt 1978, ORNHP unpubl. data, Poulton 1955, Ralston
1969, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Shiflet 1994, Strong 1980, Tiedemann
et al. 1987, Tueller and Blackburn 1974, Tueller et al. 1966, Tweit and
Houston 1980, West 1983a, West 1983c

#### CEGL001004--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata - Grayia spinosa* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush - Spiny Hop-sage Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush---spiny-hop-sage-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-32 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

-   Mojave Mid-Elevation Mixed Desert Scrub (CES302.742)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata-Grayia spinosa* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994)
    =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C, 17:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al. 1969b,
Blackburn et al. 1969d, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al.
1984, Ralston 1969, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001000--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Distichlis spicata* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Saltgrass Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-saltgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-33 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland (CEGL000991)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Distichlis spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Ralston 1969, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001014--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001530)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1, MT, NV:S4?, OR:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:C?, 342I:C?, M331A:CC,
M331D:CC, M332E:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Cooper et al. 1999,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002966--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-34 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
Canada, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 4-Dec-2001

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** Of the references for this association,
Daubenmire (1970), Hironaka et al. (1983), and Caicco and Wellner
(1983f, 1983k) clearly reference *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata /
Stipa comata* vegetation type. All the others (Blackburn 1967, Blackburn
et al. 1968c, 1971, Tueller et al. 1966, 1974, McLean 1970, Poulton
1955, DeVelice and Lesica 1993) do not provide information as to the
subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata*. However, it is likely, based on
habitat data, photos, and descriptions, that these studies were working
with *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Stipa comata* vegetation
types.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia longifolia - Calamovilfa longifolia Sparse Vegetation
    (CEGL001521)

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4? **GRank Review Date:** 4-Dec-2001

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** BC?, CA?, ID:S4, MT:S4, NV:S4, OR?:SH, WA:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:P, 11:P, 19:P, 20:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342I:CC,
M261G:CP, M331D:CP, M331G:CP, M332E:CP

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn 1967, Blackburn et al. 1968c, Caicco and
Wellner 1983f, Caicco and Wellner 1983k, Daubenmire 1970, DeVelice and
Lesica 1993, Hironaka et al. 1983, McLean 1970, Poulton 1955, Tueller
and Blackburn 1974, Tueller et al. 1966, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL001016--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Leymus cinereus* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Great Basin Lyme Grass Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-great-basin-lyme-grass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-35 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M. Jankovsky-Jones

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This widely distributed plant association is a transitional
community found along the edges of washes and gullies of the high desert
steppe. It is generally narrow or linear in occurrence and confined to
stream benches of low floodplain areas. Fire and the seasonally high
water tables play important roles in maintaining a high cover of *Leymus
cinereus*. This grassland plant association is dominated by 15-90% cover
of *Leymus cinereus* while *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* occurs
at the edges of the stands with 5-30% cover. Few other forbs or
graminoids occur.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Leymus cinereus* Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001479)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata/Leymus cinereus* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** M. Jankovsky-Jones **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 7-Apr-1998

**GReasons:** This plant association was formerly widespread in the
western United States and is rare due to habitat loss and degradation of
stands. The association is believed to be extirpated in Washington. In
other western states high-quality examples are of rare occurrence and
most stands are small and fragmented. Livestock use has reduced the
quality of stands and continues to threaten remaining occurrences.
Agricultural conversion has also eliminated habitat previously occupied
by the association. Exotic species, including *Poa pratensis* or *Bromus
tectorum*, may become locally dominant, nearly replacing the diagnostic
graminoid.

**Ranking Author:** M. Jankovsky-Jones **Version:** 3-Nov-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Formerly a widespread association in the western United
States.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S1, CO:S1, ID:S1, MT:S1, NV?, OR:S2, WA:S1, WY:S1S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC,
342I:CC, M261G:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332B:CC, M332D:C?, M332E:CC,
M332G:CC, M341B:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Shoshone)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1982b, Baker 1983b, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hess 1981, Jones and Fertig 1996, Jones and Ogle
2000, Kittel et al. 1994, Kittel et al. 1999a, Walford 1996, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001017--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Pascopyrum smithii - (Elymus lanceolatus)* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass - (Streamside Wild Rye) Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass---streamside-wild-rye-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-36 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sagebrush shrubland occurs on valley bottoms, stream
terraces and other relatively mesic sites west of the Great Plains.
Stands occur over an elevational range of 1800-2400 m (5900-7875 feet).
Most stands grow on alluvial terraces in stream alluvium, although a few
occur on upland swales. Soils generally are loamy or sandy. Water tables
may be within 2 m of the soil surface. The stream channel often is dry
and may be incised. The vegetation is characterized by a sparse to
moderately dense short-shrub layer (up to about 35% canopy cover and to
1.5 m tall) that is dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata*,
with an herbaceous layer that usually dominated by *Pascopyrum smithii*
or *Elymus lanceolatus*. Other shrubs may be present in small amounts,
especially *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus),
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*, or *Quercus gambelii*. The sparse to dense
herbaceous layer is dominated by graminoids and is poor in species
richness relative to other sagebrush types. Other species that may be
present in substantial amounts are *Elymus elymoides (= Sitanion
hystrix)* in northern Colorado, *Poa secunda (= Poa nevadensis)* and
*Muhlenbergia richardsonis*, in Nevada, and *Leymus cinereus* and *Poa
pratensis* in Montana. Forbs contribute much less cover than do grasses.
Species that often occur are *Symphyotrichum ascendens (= Aster
ascendens)* and *Collinsia parviflora* in Nevada, *Penstemon
caespitosus* in north-central Colorado, *Achillea millefolium, Erigeron
compositus, Packera cana (= Senecio canus)*, and *Taraxacum officinale*
in southwestern Montana, and *Cordylanthus ramosus* in southwestern
Wyoming. Mosses and lichens may be important ground cover.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001019)---generally has a more open shrub layer and an
    undergrowth dominated by *Pseudoroegneria spicata* rather than
    *Pascopyrum smithii* and grows on shallower soils.

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pascopyrum smithii*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001047)---has a shrub layer
    dominated by that subspecies of big sagebrush and occupies drier
    sites.

-   *Sarcobatus vermiculatus / Pascopyrum smithii - (Elymus
    lanceolatus)* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001508)---occupies
    soils with more salts.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Agropyron smithii* Community Type (Blackburn
    et al. 1971) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Elytrigia smithii* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Agropyron smithii* community
    type (Cooper et al. 1995) F

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Agropyron smithii* habitat
    type (Tiedemann et al. 1987) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Agropyron smithii* habitat
    type (Strong 1980) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata/Pascopyrum smithii* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata tridentata / Agropyron smithii* Habitat Type
    (Francis 1983) =

-   *Poa nevadensis / Carex* sp. Habitat Type (Blackburn et al. 1971) B

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This sagebrush shrubland occurs on valley bottoms,
stream terraces and other relatively mesic sites west of the Great
Plains. Stands occur over an elevational range of 1800-2400 m (5900-7875
feet). Most stands grow on alluvial terraces in stream alluvium,
although a few occur on upland swales. Soils generally are loamy or
sandy. Water tables may be within 2 m of the soil surface. The stream
channel often is dry and may be incised.

**Vegetation:** This association is characterized by a sparse to
moderately dense short-shrub layer (up to about 35% canopy cover and to
1.5 m tall) that is dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata*,
with an herbaceous layer that usually dominated by *Pascopyrum smithii*
or *Elymus lanceolatus*. Other shrubs may be present in small amounts,
especially *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus),
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*, or *Quercus gambelii*. The sparse to dense
herbaceous layer is dominated by graminoids and is poor in species
richness relative to other sagebrush types. Other species that may be
present in substantial amounts are *Elymus elymoides (= Sitanion
hystrix)* in northern Colorado (Tiedemann et al. 1987), *Poa secunda (=
Poa nevadensis)* and *Muhlenbergia richardsonis* in Nevada (Blackburn et
al. 1971), and *Leymus cinereus* and *Poa pratensis* in Montana (Cooper
et al. 1995). Forbs contribute much less cover than do grasses. Species
that often occur are *Symphyotrichum ascendens (= Aster ascendens)* and
*Collinsia parviflora* in Nevada (Blackburn et al. 1971), *Penstemon
caespitosus* in north-central Colorado (Tiedemann et al. 1987),
*Achillea millefolium, Erigeron compositus, Packera cana (= Senecio
canus)*, and *Taraxacum officinale* in southwestern Montana (Cooper et
al. 1995), and *Cordylanthus ramosus* in southwestern Wyoming (Jones and
Fertig 1996). Mosses and lichens may be important ground cover.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia tridentata* shrubs are killed by burns and do
not resprout (Wright et al. 1979). *Artemisia tridentata* will
re-establish relatively quickly (about 10-20 years) if a seed source is
nearby (Bunting 1987). If fire-return intervals are more frequent than
10 years, then *Artemisia tridentata* has difficulty recovering (Bunting
1987, Everett 1987).

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 14-Jan-2002

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 1-Feb-1996

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association occurs across the interior western U.S. from
southwestern Montana, southwestern Wyoming, and north-central Colorado
to southwestern Utah and northeastern Nevada. It may also occur in
Washington, Oregon, and Idaho given the broad geographic ranges of
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* and *Pascopyrum smithii*.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2S3, ID?, MT:S3, NV, OR?, UT, WA?, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C, 10:C, 18:C, 19:C, 20:C, 26:?

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 331D:??, 331G:??, 342B:CP, 342C:CP,
M331H:CC, M332D:C?, M332E:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Beetle and Johnson 1982, Blackburn et al. 1971,
Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Bunting 1987, Cogan et al. 2004, Cooper et
al. 1995, Driscoll et al. 1984, Everett 1987, Francis 1983, Johnston
1987, Jones and Fertig 1996, Keammerer 1977, Strong 1980, Tiedemann et
al. 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Wright et al. 1979

#### CEGL001015--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / James\' Galleta Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-james-galleta-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-37 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association has been described on the Colorado Plateau
in southeastern Utah and may occur in parts of Colorado, New Mexico and
Arizona. Elevation ranges from 2000-2200 m. Sites are found on mesas and
alluvial flats often surrounded by washes or woodlands. Soils are
generally deep, calcareous, alkaline, sandy to fine textured loams. Bare
soil may be up to 80% of the ground cover. Stands have an open short
(less than 1 m tall) shrub canopy dominated by the *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. tridentata*. Scattered short shrubs and dwarf-shrubs may include
*Gutierrezia* sp., *Ephedra viridis, Atriplex* spp., and
*Krascheninnikovia lanata*. Total woody canopy ranges from 10-35% cover.
The sparse herbaceous layer (5-15% cover) is dominated by graminoids
such as *Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Achnatherum hymenoides
(= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Bouteloua gracilis, Aristida purpurea var.
fendleriana*, and *Sporobolus cryptandrus*. Forbs are sparse. Some
stands may be considered sparse vegetation. Bare soil is often over 60%.
Gravel and cryptogam typically have low cover.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata/Hilaria jamesii* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G4 **GRank Review Date:** 21-Jan-2000

**GReasons:** This association is known from southeastern Utah on the
Colorado Plateau, but likely occurs in adjacent Colorado, New Mexico and
Arizona. Stands are growing in deep, non-saline soil on bottomland,
alluvial flats, and possibly mesa tops. The lowland sites are easily
accessible and most have been grazed for decades and in some cases,
centuries by livestock. Overgrazing reduces the graminoid layer and
damages the *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* shrubs. There are
probably stands protected in national parks, but none are documented.
This association may have a relatively large range, but good condition
stands will be difficult to find. Until more information is available
from field surveys the rank should stay G2G4.

**Ranking Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 21-Jan-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is found the Colorado Plateau in
southeastern Utah, and likely occurs in adjacent Colorado, New Mexico
and Arizona.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ?, CO?, NM?, UT:S2S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 313B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1984a, Barrows et al. 1977, Bourgeron and
Engelking 1994, Branson et al. 1976, Donart et al. 1978b, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Francis 1986, Francis and Aldon 1983, Northcutt 1978, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001008--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-38 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV, UT:S3S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Daubenmire 1970, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Moretti 1979, Moretti and Brotherson 1982, Robertson 1971,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.829--*Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance

### Basin Big Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#basin-big-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Midwest, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This broadly distributed alliance is found in the western
United States on dry steppes. It occurs primarily in the West; however,
this description is based on the vegetation in western North Dakota and
eastern Montana. Shrubs are conspicuous in this alliance, but herbaceous
species usually have equal or greater coverage. The shrub stratum is
typically 0.3-0.7 m tall. *Artemisia tridentata* is the most abundant
shrub. Stands of *Artemisia tridentata* in the Little Missouri National
Grassland have been identified as *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis*. Further review of the taxonomy in North and South Dakota
is needed to determine the distribution of this alliance.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:** MSR 9-01: There are no associations currently
attributed to this alliance that occur in the Midwest. Range of
distribution for this alliance needs review. Currently, the *Artemisia
tridentata* Shrubland Alliance (A.829) is described by the *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance (A.832). In the
Midwest, the difference between these two alliances is not well
understood. After further review, it may be that only one of the two
alliances will be listed for the Midwest. Few other alliances in the
Midwest are easily confused with this alliance. Some stands in the
*Sarcobatus vermiculatus* Intermittently Flooded Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance (A.1554) may be similar (USFS 1992). Further rangewide review
of the alliance will likely identify other similar alliances in the
West.

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
    Shrubland Alliance (A.830)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1521)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

-   *Pleuraphis jamesii* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1287)

-   *Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1532)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This is a very broadly defined alliance,
containing associations dominated by one of any subspecies of *Artemisia
tridentata*. Shrub cover in these associations averages \>25%.
Associations with stands containing *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
tridentata, Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, or *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* are included in this alliance if the
particular subspecies was not distinguished in the primary literature.
Efforts were made to contact many of the authors to determine the
particular subspecies. Nonetheless, there remain several associations
identified in the literature by the dominance of *Artemisia tridentata*
with no information as to the subspecies. Several associations currently
placed in this alliance are likely to be redundant with associations in
one of the other alliances defined by subspecies of *Artemisia
tridentata*.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Big Sagebrush Scrub (Holland 1986b) I

-   Big Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   Western Shrub and Grasslands Combinations: 55: Sagebrush-Steppe
    (*Artemisia-Agropyron*) (Kuchler 1964) I

-   Western Shrub: 38: Great Basin Sagebrush (*Artemisia*)
    (Kuchler 1964) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance occurs throughout the colder regions of
the Intermountain West from the western Great Basin to the northern
Rocky Mountains and Colorado Plateau at elevations ranging from
1000-3500 m. Stands also occur on the northern Great Plains at 500-1000
m elevation. Generally, these shrublands are associated with semi-arid
climates with yearly precipitation ranging from 18-50 cm and high
inter-annual variation. At all sites, much of the precipitation falls as
snow, and growing-season drought is common. Temperatures are continental
with large annual and diurnal variation. In drier regions, these
shrublands are usually associated with perennial or ephemeral stream
drainages with shallow water tables. These shrublands grow best on deep,
fine- to medium-textured alluvial soils with some source of
subirrigation during the summer season, but can also occur on shallow to
moderately deep upland soils with ample moisture storage. Although the
vegetation may grow in alkaline soils at the edge of internally drained
basins, *Artemisia tridentata* is a non-halophyte and requires low
salinity for optimum growth.

**Vegetation:** Plant associations in this alliance occur in widely
varied environmental and geographic settings, and species assemblages
are correspondingly diverse. All stands are characterized by a somewhat
sparse to moderately dense (25-75% cover) shrub layer of *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata, Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, or
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*. Widespread shrub associates
include *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Grayia spinosa, Symphoricarpos longiflorus, Purshia
tridentata, Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Tetradymia
canescens, Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Prunus virginiana*, and *Atriplex*
spp. A sparse layer of cold-deciduous needle-leaved or scale-leaved
evergreen trees may occasionally be emergent over the shrubs. Trees
found across the range include *Pinus ponderosa, Pinus jeffreyi, Pinus
monophylla, Pinus edulis, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus osteosperma,
Juniperus scopulorum, Juniperus monosperma, Populus tremuloides, Quercus
garryana, Quercus gambelii, Cercocarpus ledifolius*, and *Yucca
brevifolia*. The herbaceous layer is typically dominated by bunch
grasses which occupy patches in the shrub matrix. Some locally important
graminoids include *Poa secunda, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Pascopyrum smithii, Elymus lanceolatus, Achnatherum
lettermanii (= Stipa lettermanii)*, and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata)*. *Bouteloua gracilis* and *Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria
jamesii)* are important associates in the eastern and southeastern
extension of the range. Forbs are generally of low importance and are
highly variable across the range, but may be diverse in some stands.
*Balsamorhiza sagittata, Achillea millefolium*, and species of
*Astragalus, Oenothera, Eriogonum*, and *Erigeron* are common in moist
stands.

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The vegetation in this alliance is common over much of the
western United States, occurring from California, Washington, and Oregon
across the Great Basin and Colorado Plateau to Utah, Arizona, New
Mexico, Montana, and Wyoming.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ, CA, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR?, UT, WA, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 17:C, 18:C, 19:C, 20:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 313B:CC, 322A:CC, 331D:CC, 331J:C?,
341C:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342I:CC, M261G:CC, M331D:CC,
M331G:CC, M332D:C?, M332E:CC, M341A:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Canyon, Hovenweep, Zion); USFS (Little
Missouri); USFWS (Ouray)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn 1967, Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al.
1968c, Blackburn et al. 1969a, Blackburn et al. 1969b, Blackburn et al.
1969c, Blackburn et al. 1969d, Blackburn et al. 1971, Caicco and Wellner
1983f, Caicco and Wellner 1983k, Daubenmire 1970, Eddleman and Jaindl
1994, Faber-Langendoen et al. 1996, Fenemore 1970, Francis 1986,
Franklin and Dyrness 1973, Hansen et al. 1984, Harper and Jaynes 1986,
Heinze et al. 1962, Hironaka et al. 1983, Holecheck and Stephenson 1983,
Holland 1986b, Jameson et al. 1962, Jorgensen 1979, Kuchler 1964,
Kurzius 1981, Leary and Peterson 1984, Lesica and DeVelice 1992, Loope
1969, McLean 1970, Moretti 1979, Moretti and Brotherson 1982, Poulton
1955, Ralston 1969, Rickard and Beatley 1965, Robertson 1971, Savage
1968, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Tueller and Blackburn 1974, Tueller
et al. 1966, USFS 1992, Warren et al. 1982, West 1983c

#### CEGL002699--*Artemisia tridentata - (Ericameria nauseosa) / Bromus tectorum* Semi-natural Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush - (Rubber Rabbitbrush) / Cheatgrass Semi-natural Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush---rubber-rabbitbrush-cheatgrass-semi-natural-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-39 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 14-Aug-2001

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Semi-Desert Shrub-Steppe (CES304.788)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association has only been described from Zion National
Park. Until further inventory is completed there is no global
information.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 14-Aug-2001

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association has currently only been described from Zion
National Park in southwestern Utah.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 18:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, M341:C

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Hovenweep, Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Cogan et al. 2004, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001006--*Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Indian Ricegrass Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-indian-ricegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-40 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Oryzopsis hymenoides* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV, UT:S3S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al. 1969a,
Blackburn et al. 1969d, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al.
1984, Harper and Jaynes 1986, Rickard and Beatley 1965, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001011--*Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum lettermanii* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Letterman\'s Needlegrass Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-lettermans-needlegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-41 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Stipa lettermanii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1969c, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Heinze et al. 1962, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL000997--*Artemisia tridentata / Bouteloua gracilis - Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Blue Grama - Western Wheatgrass Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-blue-grama---western-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-42 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Bouteloua gracilis-Pascopyrum smithii*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313:?, 331J:??, 342:?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Francis 1986, Holecheck and Stephenson 1983, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL000996--*Artemisia tridentata / Bouteloua gracilis - Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Blue Grama - James\' Galleta Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-blue-grama---james-galleta-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-43 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Bouteloua gracilis-Hilaria jamesii* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313B:CC, 331J:??, M331G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Francis 1986, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL000995--*Artemisia tridentata / Bouteloua gracilis* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Blue Grama Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-blue-grama-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-44 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland has only been described from the plateaus
and mesas of Grand Canyon and Zion national parks in northwestern
Arizona and southwestern Utah, but it is more widespread and likely
occurs in New Mexico and Nevada. Sites range from valley bottoms and
drainages to rolling hills, mesa tops and terraces. Substrates are
alluvial soils derived from limestone or volcanic flows or
sandy-textured soil derived from sandstone or sandy limestone. Stands
have an open, short-shrub canopy (less than 1 m tall) that is dominated
by the evergreen microphyllous shrub *Artemisia tridentata* usually with
greater than 20% cover. Other common shrubs and dwarf-shrubs may include
*Gutierrezia sarothrae, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Atriplex canescens,
Krascheninnikovia lanata*, or *Ephedra viridis*. The sparse herbaceous
layer is dominated by the short perennial bunchgrass *Bouteloua
gracilis* with *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides),
Pascopyrum smithii*, or *Sporobolus cryptandrus* often present. Forbs
are sparse. Scattered *Juniperus osteosperma* trees and succulents such
as *Opuntia* spp. may also be present.

**Classification Comments:** On Fishtail Mesa, cover of *Artemisia
bigelovii* was lumped with *Artemisia tridentata* in plot summary tables
as \"*Artemisia*\" by Jameson et al. (1962) and Rowlands and Brian
(1996). It is not clear if these shrub species co-occurred within the
plot sites or not.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   152.1111 *Artemisia tridentata - Gutierrezia sarothrae - Bouteloua
    gracilis* (Warren et al. 1982) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Bouteloua gracilis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   Shrub Type (Jameson et al. 1962) =

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This shrubland has only been described from the
plateaus and mesas of Grand Canyon and Zion national parks in
northwestern Arizona and southwestern Utah, but it is more widespread
and likely occurs in New Mexico and Nevada. Elevations range from
1370-2040 m. Sites range from valley bottoms and drainages to rolling
hills, mesa tops and terraces. Substrates include sandy-textured soils
derived from sandstone or sandy limestone and moderately deep,
fine-textured, alkaline, calcareous, alluvial soils derived from
limestone or volcanic flows.

**Vegetation:** This shrubland is characterized by an open, short-shrub
canopy (less than 2 m tall) that is dominated by the evergreen
microphyllous shrub *Artemisia tridentata* usually with greater than 20%
cover. Other common shrubs and dwarf-shrubs may include *Gutierrezia
sarothrae, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Atriplex canescens, Ephedra
viridis, Krascheninnikovia lanata*, or *Tetradymia canescens*. The
sparse herbaceous layer is dominated by the short perennial bunchgrass
*Bouteloua gracilis* with *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Pascopyrum smithii*, or *Sporobolus cryptandrus* often
present. Forbs are sparse but may include species of *Castilleja,
Eriogonum, Lupinus*, and *Penstemon*. Scattered *Juniperus osteosperma*
trees and succulents such as *Opuntia* spp. may also be present.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia tridentata* shrubs are readily killed by fire
and do not resprout (Wright et al. 1979). *Artemisia tridentata* will
re-establish relatively quickly (about 10-20 years) if a seed source is
nearby (Bunting 1987). If fire-return intervals are more frequent than
10 years then *Artemisia tridentata* has difficulty recovering (Bunting
1987, Everett 1987). However, this association has an open, short-shrub
canopy and a relatively sparse herbaceous layer (low fine fuels to carry
the fire), so it is unlikely that it would burn except under extreme
conditions.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 14-Jan-2002

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 17-Dec-1999

**GReasons:** Although, this shrubland has only been describe from six
locations in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, it is likely a
widespread type that occurs elsewhere in the Colorado Plateau such as
New Mexico and possibly Nevada. Stands in the park are protected from
livestock grazing, but may be sensitive to overbrowsing by wildlife.
Outside the park, excessive use by livestock or wildlife degrade stands.
Fortunately, *Artemisia tridentata* and *Bouteloua gracilis* are fairly
resilient to overgrazing. Increased fire frequency caused by abundance
of fine fuels from introduced annual grasses such as *Bromus rubens* or
*Bromus tectorum* may threaten these shrublands. More survey and
classification work are needed to verify potential range distribution.

**Ranking Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 12-Oct-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is described from Zion and Grand Canyon
national parks in southwestern Utah and northwestern Arizona. It is
likely widespread across the Colorado Plateau and also may occur in New
Mexico and Nevada.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ:S3, UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 18:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Canyon, Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Bunting 1987, Cogan et al.
2004, Driscoll et al. 1984, Everett 1987, Jameson et al. 1962, Warren et
al. 1982, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Wright et al. 1979

#### CEGL000999--*Artemisia tridentata / Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus / Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Green Rabbitbrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-green-rabbitbrush-curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-45 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus/Poa secunda*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S3, NV:S5, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968c, Blackburn et al. 1969a,
Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001001--*Artemisia tridentata / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Bottlebrush Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-bottlebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-46 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland (CEGL000991)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Elymus elymoides* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5? **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Eddleman and Jaindl 1994, Savage 1968, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL000998--*Artemisia tridentata / Ericameria nauseosa* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Rubber Rabbitbrush Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-rubber-rabbitbrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-47 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Chrysothamnus nauseosus* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S4, NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Fenemore 1970, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001005--*Artemisia tridentata / Pleuraphis jamesii* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / James\' Galleta Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-james-galleta-shrubland-1 .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-48 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Hilaria jamesii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Tueller et al. 1966, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001012--*Artemisia tridentata / Symphoricarpos longiflorus* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Desert Snowberry Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-desert-snowberry-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-49 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Symphoricarpos longiflorus* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S2, NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1971, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Heinze et al. 1962, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL000991--*Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-50 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This broadly defined sagebrush shrubland is described from
eastern California, Nevada, and Utah, but likely occurs throughout much
of the western U.S. Elevations range from 1340-2225 m. Landforms include
dunes, basins and slopes. Substrates are variable; soil texture ranges
from sand to clay. This association is used to describe *Artemisia
tridentata*-dominated shrublands where the subspecies is not known and
the herbaceous layer is generally sparse. The herbaceous layer may be
limited by substrate or disturbance. Stands in Utah and California had
moderate cover (25-50%) of *Artemisia tridentata* often with scattered
individuals of *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus),
Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Grayia spinosa, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, or
*Opuntia polyacantha*. If present, the herbaceous layer typically
consists of low cover of graminoids such as *Distichlis spicata* and
*Elymus elymoides*.

**Classification Comments:** This is a broadly defined, low-confidence
association that could be split into several associations with more
information. There are many associations defined for all subspecies of
*Artemisia tridentata*. Leary and Peterson (1984) identified *Artemisia
tridentata* in their stands to *ssp. tridentata*; however, their stands
were almost pure *Artemisia tridentata* with little else to classify
into a less general association.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland (CEGL001001)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Distichlis spicata*
    Shrubland (CEGL001000)---This is one of many similar *Artemisia
    tridentata* associations without variety of *Artemisia tridentata*
    specified.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Association (Leary and Peterson 1984) F

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Vegetation Zone VIII (Ralston 1969) F

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This broadly defined sagebrush shrubland is reported
from the Great Basin and Uinta Basin but is likely more widespread.
Elevations range from 1340-2225 m. Landforms include dunes, basins and
slopes. Substrates are variable; soil texture ranges from sand to clay.

**Vegetation:** This broadly defined association is used to describe
*Artemisia tridentata*-dominated shrublands where the subspecies is not
known and the herbaceous layer is generally sparse. The herbaceous layer
may be limited by substrate or disturbance. Stands in Utah and
California had a moderately dense short-shrub layer (25-70%) dominated
by *Artemisia tridentata*. Associated shrub species may codominate, but
more typically occur as scattered individuals including *Ericameria
nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Grayia
spinosa, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, or *Opuntia polyacantha*. If present,
the herbaceous layer typically consists of low cover of graminoids such
as *Distichlis spicata* and *Elymus elymoides*.

**Dynamics:** Ecological processes vary among sites.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz **Version:** 10-Jul-2001

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5? **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 23-Feb-1994

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This sagebrush shrubland is reported from eastern California,
Nevada, and Utah, but likely occurs throughout much of the Intermountain
West.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S5, NV:S5, UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341C:CC, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFWS (Ouray)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Leary and Peterson 1984, Ralston 1969, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL001013--*Artemisia tridentata* Upperzone Community Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush Upperzone Community Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush-upperzone-community-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-51 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (Upperzone Community) (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5? **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Kurzius 1981, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.2550--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrubland Alliance

### Spiked Big Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#spiked-big-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This is a poorly documented alliance known from the
foothills and lower mountain slopes of the northern Rocky Mountains of
east-central and southeastern Idaho and probably western Wyoming. This
alliance is found at the upper elevation range of *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana*, from 2590 to 3205 m (8500-10,500 feet) on deep to very
deep, well-drained soils of mountain slopes and bottoms in zones of
higher snow accumulation. Annual precipitation often exceeds 18 inches
and occurs primarily as snow. The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1.5 m
tall, and shrub canopy cover is 10-60%, of which *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. spiciformis* contributes at least 40% relative cover. Other shrubs
that may be present include *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana,
Symphoricarpos oreophilus*, and *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. Perennial
graminoid cover is typically less than 20%. Common species include
*Bromus carinatus* and *Carex geyeri*.

**Classification Comments:** This is a newly described alliance, with
very little in the way of documentation. In the past, *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. spiciformis* communities have been included in the
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1526)
and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831).
Much work is needed to clarify the distribution and floristic
characteristics of this alliance that will distinguish it clearly.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2555)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** The distinction between these alliances
is made by estimating the relative cover of the particular *Artemisia
tridentata* subtaxa and total cover of perennial graminoids. Greater
than roughly 20% cover of the perennial graminoids places the stand into
one of the Shrub Herbaceous alliances, while more than 40% relative
cover of either *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* or *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana* places the stand into the respective alliance
for that subtaxa.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #408 - Other Sagebrush Types (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is found at the upper elevation range of
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, from 2590 to 3205 m (8500-10,500
feet) on deep to very deep, well-drained soils of mountain slopes and
bottoms in zones of higher snow accumulation. Annual precipitation often
exceeds 18 inches and occurs primarily as snow.

**Vegetation:** The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1.5 m tall, and shrub
canopy cover is 10-60%, of which *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis*
contributes at least 40% relative cover. Other shrubs that may be
present include *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Symphoricarpos
oreophilus*, and *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. Perennial graminoid
cover is typically less than 20%. Common species include *Bromus
carinatus* and *Carex geyeri*.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* communities have a
natural fire frequency averaging between 20 and 40 years. Presettlement
fires burned unevenly, resulting in an ever changing mosaic of different
densities and ages of sagebrush plants (Winward 1991). However,
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* resprouts vigorously after fire
(Goodrich et al. 1985) and can return to pre-burn canopy cover very
quickly (Winward 1991).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Associations of the alliance are known from foothills and
lower mountain slopes of the northern Rocky Mountains of east-central
and southeastern Idaho, and probably western Wyoming. The alliance is
expected to occur in the Bear River Range, south through the Wasatch
Mountains of Utah, and east to the Uinta Mountains in northeastern Utah
and extreme northwestern Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 8:C, 9:C, 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341A:C?, 341B:CC, 342E:CC, 342F:CP, 342G:CC,
M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331E:CC, M331I:CP, M331J:CC, M332A:CC, M332D:CC,
M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M341C:CP

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Goodrich et al. 1985, Hironaka et
al. 1983, Shiflet 1994, Tart 1996, Winward 1991

#### CEGL002989--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis / Bromus carinatus* Shrubland

#### Spiked Big Sagebrush / California Brome Shrubland {#spiked-big-sagebrush-california-brome-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-52 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331D:PP, M332E:PP, M332F:PP

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Hironaka et al. 1983, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002990--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis / Carex geyeri* Shrubland

#### Spiked Big Sagebrush / Geyer\'s Sedge Shrubland {#spiked-big-sagebrush-geyers-sedge-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-53 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 15-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331D:PP, M332E:PP, M332F:PP

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Hironaka et al. 1983, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.831--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance

### Mountain Big Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#mountain-big-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is widespread in mountainous areas across the
western U.S. The alliance forms large, continuous stands on
mid-elevation mountain slopes and foothills, and can extend above the
lower treeline as patches within montane or subalpine coniferous
forests. Sites are variable and range from flats to steep slopes to
ridgetops with deep to shallow rocky soil. The vegetation included in
this alliance is characterized by a moderate to dense shrub layer in
which *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is either dominant or
contributes \>40% to the total sagebrush shrub cover. Other shrub
species present may include *Artemisia rigida, Artemisia arbuscula,
Chrysothamnus* spp., *Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Purshia tridentata,
Ribes cereum, Rosa woodsii, Ceanothus velutinus*, and *Amelanchier
alnifolia*. Perennial graminoids typically dominate the herbaceous
layer, but their total cover is generally \<20%. Total herbaceous cover
can be higher, depending on the density of the shrub layer and
environmental factors. The most widespread species are *Pseudoroegneria
spicata* and *Festuca idahoensis*, which occur from the Columbia Basin
to the northern Rockies, although they may not be the most abundant
species in individual stands. Other locally important species may
include *Leymus cinereus, Leucopoa kingii (= Festuca kingii), Festuca
thurberi, Festuca viridula, Pascopyrum smithii, Bromus carinatus, Elymus
trachycaulus, Koeleria macrantha, Achnatherum occidentale (= Stipa
occidentalis), Poa fendleriana, Poa secunda*, and *Bouteloua gracilis*.
The forb layer is variable and can be very diverse. Species of
*Castilleja, Potentilla, Erigeron, Phlox, Astragalus, Geum, Lupinus*,
and *Eriogonum* are characteristic. Other common forbs include
*Balsamorhiza sagittata, Achillea millefolium, Antennaria rosea*, and
*Eriogonum umbellatum*. Diagnostic of this shrubland alliance is the
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* dominating the shrub layer or with
\>40% relative cover, and total perennial graminoid cover typically less
than 20%.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1522)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
    Shrubland Alliance (A.830)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance (A.829)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1527)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

-   *Festuca thurberi* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1256)

-   *Leucopoa kingii* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1323)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance (A.831) contains stands in
which *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is dominant or contributes
\>40% of the total sagebrush cover and with perennial graminoids
generally having less than 20% total cover. Some stands in the
*Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance (A.829) may be very similar.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Big Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   SRM Cover Type #402 - Mountain Big Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) =

-   Western Shrub and Grasslands Combinations: 55: Sagebrush-Steppe
    (*Artemisia-Agropyron*) (Kuchler 1964) I Western Shrub: 38: Great
    Basin Sagebrush (*Artemisia*) (Kuchler 1964) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*-dominated
shrublands occupy the coolest and moistest climate zone of the
*Artemisia tridentata* shrubland and shrub herbaceous alliances. This
alliance forms large, continuous stands on mid-elevation mountain slopes
and foothills, and often extends above lower treeline as patches within
montane or subalpine coniferous forests. The climate regime is cool,
semi-arid to subhumid, with yearly precipitation ranging from 25-60 cm.
Much of the yearly precipitation falls as snow, which may cover the
ground for long periods in winter. Temperatures are continental with
large annual and diurnal variation. The elevation range for this
alliance is large, from about 1060 m in eastern Oregon and Washington,
to well over 3000 m in the mountains of northern Nevada, Idaho, and
Colorado. Landscape positions are variable as well, but primarily are
deep-soiled to stony flats, ridges, nearly flat ridgetops, and mountain
slopes. All aspects are represented, but the higher elevation
occurrences may be mainly on south- or west-facing slopes. Soils
generally are moderately deep to deep, well-drained, and of loam, sandy
loam, clay loam, or gravelly loam textural classes; they often have a
substantial volume of coarse fragments. The soils are derived from a
variety of parent materials (although sandstones, limestones, and
crystalline rocks are common). In some cases, soils supporting stands of
this alliance are unstable and prone to mass movement (Bramble-Brodahl
1978, Hironaka et al. 1983). In subalpine environments, these shrublands
are found on deeper soils than *Artemisia arbuscula* subalpine
shrublands.

Adjacent vegetation is highly variable. In the Great Basin and Rocky
Mountains, adjacent communities typically include *Pinus ponderosa*
forests, *Pinus - Juniperus* or *Cercocarpus ledifolius* woodlands,
*Populus tremuloides* forests, *Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia rigida,
Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, and *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
tridentata* shrublands, *Quercus gambelii* shrublands, and herbaceous
meadows. In the Blue Mountains, eastern Cascade Range, and in the
Okanogan Highlands these shrublands are found in a matrix with
*Juniperus occidentalis, Pinus ponderosa, Pinus albicaulis*, and *Abies
lasiocarpa* forests and woodlands.

**Vegetation:** The plant associations in this alliance are
characterized by a somewhat sparse to moderately dense (25-70% cover)
shrub layer of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, a microphyllous
evergreen shrub. A variety of other shrubs are often found in some
stands, however, *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* contributes at
least 40% of the total sagebrush shrub cover. Other shrubs can include
*Artemisia rigida, Artemisia arbuscula, Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Symphoricarpos
oreophilus, Purshia tridentata, Ribes cereum, Rosa woodsii, Ceanothus
velutinus, Amelanchier utahensis*, and *Amelanchier alnifolia*. The
herbaceous layer is typically dominated by bunch grasses which occupy
patches in the shrub matrix, and the forb layer can be very diverse.
Perennial graminoid cover generally totals \<20%. The most widespread
species are *Pseudoroegneria spicata* and *Festuca idahoensis*, which
occur from the Columbia Basin to the northern Rockies, although they may
not be the most abundant species in individual stands. Other locally
important species include *Leymus cinereus, Leucopoa kingii (= Festuca
kingii), Festuca thurberi, Festuca viridula, Pascopyrum smithii, Bromus
carinatus, Elymus trachycaulus, Koeleria macrantha, Achnatherum
occidentale (= Stipa occidentalis), Poa fendleriana*, or *Poa secunda*.
*Bouteloua gracilis* is important in stands in the eastern extension of
the range. Forbs are highly variable across the range, but may be
diverse in some stands. Species of *Castilleja, Potentilla, Erigeron,
Phlox, Astragalus, Geum, Lupinus*, and *Eriogonum* are characteristic.
Other common forbs include *Balsamorhiza sagittata, Achillea
millefolium, Antennaria rosea*, and *Eriogonum umbellatum*. Trees are
uncommon in stands of this alliance, but *Pinus ponderosa, Cercocarpus
ledifolius, Populus tremuloides, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus
scopulorum, Pinus albicaulis*, and *Abies lasiocarpa* may occasionally
occur.

**Dynamics:** Complex ecological interactions between fire regimes,
grazing history, and climate patterns result in equally complex patterns
of species structure and composition in *Artemisia tridentata*. These
present corresponding difficulties in the classification of these
shrublands, which have been compounded by the influence of human
settlement and agricultural patterns. What follows is a summary of some
of the influences of altered fire regimes, and grazing history on
*Artemisia tridentata* shrublands and shrub herbaceous vegetation.

*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* shrublands may represent either
drier or more disturbed examples of the *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana* shrubland complex. Shrub densities typically increase with
overgrazing of the bunchgrass component or with increasing summer
drought (West 1983c). There is considerable debate over whether present
shrub-dominated stands are actually degraded \'steppe\' (e.g., shrub
herbaceous physiognomy), and if the stands will return to steppe with
changes in grazing and fire management. *Artemisia tridentata* is
inhibited by fire, and excessive grazing may decrease fire frequency due
to consumption of herbaceous forage, resulting in increased shrub
density. Conversely, invasion by non-native annual grasses (e.g.,
*Bromus tectorum* at lower elevations) may increase fire frequency
sufficiently to eliminate the shrubs from the stands (Hironaka et al.
1983). With a change in fire frequency, species composition will be
altered as well (West 1983c). With a high fire frequency, every 2-5
years, perennial grasses and shrubs are eliminated and non-native annual
grasses dominate. At fire-return intervals of 10-30 years, short-lived
resprouting shrubs such as *Chrysothamnus* or *Tetradymia* spp.
dominate. At fire intervals of 30-70 years, a mixture of perennial bunch
grasses and shrubs is maintained. Finally, in the complete absence of
fire, deep-rooted shrubs such as *Artemisia tridentata* become the
theoretical dominants.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This shrubland alliance occurs in mountainous regions from
eastern California, Oregon, and Washington, across the Great Basin in
Nevada, the northern Rocky Mountain foothills of Idaho, and in Colorado,
Wyoming, and Montana. It has not been reported from Utah, Arizona, or
New Mexico, but it is very likely to occur in these states at high
elevations. In addition, the alliance probably extends north into
Alberta, Canada.

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 12:C, 17:C, 19:C, 20:C,
26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 322A:CC, 331D:CC, 331G:CC, 341B:C?,
341D:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342E:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC,
342I:CP, M242C:CC, M261E:CC, M261G:CC, M331A:CC, M331B:CC, M331D:CC,
M331E:C?, M331G:CP, M331H:C?, M331I:CC, M332A:CC, M332B:CC, M332C:CP,
M332D:CP, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC, M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Craters of the Moon, Grand Teton, Rocky
Mountain, Yosemite, Zion); USFS (Bighorn, Bridger-Teton, Deschutes,
Medicine Bow, Shoshone)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Boyce 1977,
Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Caicco and Wellner 1983a, Chappell et al. 1997,
Cooper et al. 1999, Current 1984, Francis 1983, Giese 1975, Hess 1981,
Hess and Wasser 1982, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Johnson
and Clausnitzer 1992, Johnson and Simon 1987, Johnston 1987, Komarkova
1986, Kuchler 1964, Lewis 1971, Lewis 1975a, McArthur and Welch 1986,
Mooney 1985, Nelson and Jensen 1987, ORNHP unpubl. data, Rzedowski 1981,
Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Shiflet 1994, Smith 1966, Tart 1996,
Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Terwilliger and Tiedemann 1978, Tiedemann et
al. 1987, Tueller and Eckert 1987, West 1983c, Winward 1970

#### CEGL005827--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - (Purshia tridentata) / Muhlenbergia montana - (Hesperostipa comata* ssp. *comata)* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - (Bitterbrush) / Mountain Muhly - (Needle-and-Thread) Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---bitterbrush-mountain-muhly---needle-and-thread-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-54 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.: Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-May-2004

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 26-May-2004

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO

**TNC Ecoregions:** 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331:C

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Rocky Mountain)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001032--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Purshia tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - Bitterbrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---bitterbrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-55 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana-Purshia
    tridentata/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5? **GRank Review Date:** 14-May-1999

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, NV:S5, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 17:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Tueller and Eckert 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001035--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Bromus carinatus* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - Mountain Snowberry / California Brome Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---mountain-snowberry-california-brome-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-56 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sagebrush shrubland is described from the mountains of
northeastern Nevada and eastern Idaho. It occurs on moderate to steep
slopes (15-45%), on deep soils (110-162 cm), at elevations ranging from
1768 to 2499 m (5800-8200 feet). It is one of the most productive
sagebrush types in northeastern Nevada, occupying higher elevations than
those of other sagebrush types in the area. *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana* is the dominant sagebrush. *Symphoricarpos oreophilus* is
conspicuously present, usually with a canopy cover greater than 3%.
*Amelanchier alnifolia* may also be present (0-5%) and can replace
*Symphoricarpos oreophilus* on some sites. Other shrubs include *Prunus
virginiana, Purshia tridentata, Ribes* spp., and *Rosa woodsii*. *Bromus
carinatus* is the dominant grass. *Festuca idahoensis, Elymus
trachycaulus (= Agropyron trachycaulum)*, and *Leymus cinereus (= Elymus
cinereus)* are conspicuously present and may replace *Bromus carinatus*
in dominance on some sites. Forb species occur with the same abundance
as grasses on most sites. Common forb species include *Balsamorhiza
sagittata, Helianthella uniflora (= Helianthus uniflorus), Lupinus
caudatus*, and *Eurybia conspicua*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Bromus carinatus* Habitat Type (Jensen et al. 1988a) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Bromus carinatus* Habitat Type (Jensen et al. 1988b) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana-Symphoricarpos oreophilus/Bromus
    carinatus* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This sagebrush shrubland is described from mountains of
northeastern Nevada and eastern Idaho. It occurs on moderate to steep
slopes (15-45%), on deep soils (110-162 cm), at elevations ranging from
1768 to 2499 m (5800-8200 feet). It is one of the most productive
sagebrush types in northeastern Nevada, occupying higher elevations than
that of other sagebrush types in the area.

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is the dominant
sagebrush. *Symphoricarpos oreophilus* is conspicuously present, usually
with a canopy cover greater than 3%. *Amelanchier alnifolia* may also be
present (0-5%) and can replace *Symphoricarpos oreophilus* on some
sites. Other shrubs include *Prunus virginiana, Purshia tridentata,
Ribes* spp., and *Rosa woodsii*. *Bromus carinatus* is the dominant
grass. *Festuca idahoensis, Elymus trachycaulus (= Agropyron
trachycaulum)*, and *Leymus cinereus (= Elymus cinereus)* are
conspicuously present and may replace *Bromus carinatus* in dominance on
some sites. Forb species occur with the same abundance as grasses on
most sites. Common forb species include *Balsamorhiza sagittata,
Helianthella uniflora (= Helianthus uniflorus), Lupinus caudatus*, and
*Eurybia conspicua*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 13-Jul-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4Q **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association occurs in mountains of eastern Idaho,
northern Nevada, Oregon, Wyoming, and possibly Utah.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S3?, NV:S4, OR:S3, UT?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, M331D:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton?); USFS (Bridger-Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Jensen et al. 1988a, Jensen et al. 1988b, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL001034--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Elymus trachycaulus* ssp. *trachycaulus* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - Mountain Snowberry / Slender Wild Rye Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---mountain-snowberry-slender-wild-rye-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-57 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana-Symphoricarpos
    oreophilus/Agropyron trachycaulum* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO, ID, NV:S3S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Tueller and Eckert 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001036--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - Mountain Snowberry / Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---mountain-snowberry-idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-58 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sagebrush shrubland occurs on all exposures except
southerly sites. It appears to be limited to above 1830 m (6000 feet)
elevation, ranging from 1935 to 2290 m (6350-7500 feet). Slopes range
from 0-30%. Soils are derived from acidic igneous and basaltic parent
materials. Textures range from gravelly loam to gravelly clay loam to
finer silt loams with fewer fragments. *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana* is the dominant shrub species, ranging from 3 to 40% canopy
cover. *Symphoricarpos oreophilus* is often present and occasionally
replaced by *Prunus virginiana* or *Ribes cereum*. Other shrubs that may
be present include *Purshia tridentata* and *Amelanchier alnifolia*.
Herbaceous cover ranges from 20 to 70% and is dominated by *Festuca
idahoensis*. Other common or high-constancy species include *Poa
pratensis, Melica bulbosa, Koeleria macrantha, Lupinus sericeus,
Geranium viscosissimum, Eriogonum umbellatum, Balsamorhiza sagittata*,
and *Helianthella uniflora*. Presence of *Achnatherum nelsonii ssp.
dorei (= Stipa columbiana)* or *Achnatherum lettermanii (= Stipa
lettermanii)* are indications of past disturbance.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Festuca idahoensis* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type (Hironaka et al. 1983) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Festuca idahoensis* Plant Association (Cooper et al. 1999) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana-Symphoricarpos
    oreophilus/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Symphoricarpos oreophilus - Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana /
    Festuca idahoensis* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This sagebrush shrubland occurs on all exposures except
southerly sites. It appears to be limited to above 1830 m (6000 feet)
elevation, ranging from 1935 to 2590 m (6350-8500 feet). Slopes range
from 0-30%. Soils are derived from acidic igneous and basaltic parent
materials. Textures range from gravelly loam to gravelly clay loam to
finer silt loams with fewer fragments.

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is the dominant
shrub species, ranging from 3 to 40% canopy cover. *Symphoricarpos
oreophilus* is often present and occasionally replaced by *Prunus
virginiana* or *Ribes cereum*. Other shrubs that may be present include
*Purshia tridentata* and *Amelanchier alnifolia*. Herbaceous cover
ranges from 20 to 70% and is dominated by *Festuca idahoensis*. Other
common or high-constancy species include *Poa pratensis, Melica bulbosa,
Koeleria macrantha, Lupinus sericeus, Geranium viscosissimum, Eriogonum
umbellatum, Balsamorhiza sagittata*, and *Helianthella uniflora*.
Presence of *Achnatherum nelsonii ssp. dorei (= Stipa columbiana)* or
*Achnatherum lettermanii (= Stipa lettermanii)* are indications of past
disturbance.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 13-Jul-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known from northern Nevada, eastern
Idaho, southeastern Montana, eastern Oregon, and western Wyoming.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S4, MT, NV, OR:S3, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331G:C?,
M332A:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton); USFS (Bridger-Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983a,
Cooper et al. 1999, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Tueller
and Eckert 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001039--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - Mountain Snowberry / Needle-and-Thread Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---mountain-snowberry-needle-and-thread-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-59 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** There appears to be no literature reference
for this association. Tueller and Eckert (1987) have no mention of any
*Stipa* spp., including *Hesperostipa comata (=Stipa comata)*,
understory. Tueller and Blackburn (1974) discuss *Artemisia tridentata*
and *Stipa comata* ecological relationships, with no *Symphoricarpos*
mentioned. Blackburn et al. (1968c) (Duckwater Watershed) and Blackburn
(1967) discuss an *Artemisia tridentata / Stipa comata* association, but
the subspecies for the sagebrush is not identified, and there is no
mention of *Symphoricarpos* spp.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Hesperostipa comata*
    Shrubland (CEGL002931)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana-Symphoricarpos oreophilus/Stipa
    comata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S3?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, M331D:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hironaka et al. 1983, Tueller and Eckert 1987, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL001037--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - Mountain Snowberry / Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---mountain-snowberry-curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-60 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana-Symphoricarpos oreophilus/Poa
    secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5? **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Tueller and Eckert 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001038--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush - Mountain Snowberry / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush---mountain-snowberry-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-61 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This low sagebrush association occurs from 1830 to 2750 m
(6000-9000 feet) elevation, on slopes from 10-42%, often on northern
aspects, in concave snowpockets in northern Nevada, and generally on
southern exposures in eastern Idaho. Soils are deep Mollisols (average
117 cm), of fine loam texture with gravel fragment up to 30%. This
low-stature shrubland is dominated by a combination of *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana* and *Symphoricarpos oreophilus*, sometimes one
more dominant than the other, but both always present with at least 10%
cover. Other shrubs that may be present include *Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Ribes* spp., and *Purshia tridentata*. The understory is
sparsely to occasionally thickly dominated by grasses. *Pseudoroegneria
spicata* is always present and usually the most abundant grass with
2-10% cover. Other grasses commonly present include *Festuca idahoensis,
Poa fendleriana, Achnatherum nelsonii ssp. dorei (= Stipa columbiana),
Achnatherum lettermanii (= Stipa lettermanii), Bromus tectorum*, and
*Melica bulbosa*. Common forbs include *Lupinus caudatus, Achillea
millefolium, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Collinsia parviflora*, and
*Helianthella uniflora*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type (Jensen et al. 1988a) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana-Symphoricarpos
    oreophilus/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Agropyron spicatum* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) =

-   *Artemisia vaseyana / Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Agropyron
    spicatum* Habitat Type (Hironaka et al. 1983) =

-   *Symphoricarpos oreophilus - Artemisia tridentata vaseyana /
    Agropyron spicatum* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) = DRISCOLL FORMATION
    CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This low sagebrush association occurs from 1830 to 2750
m (6000-9000 feet) elevation, on slopes from 10-42%, often on northern
aspects, in concave snowpockets in northern Nevada, and generally on
southern exposures in eastern Idaho. Soils are deep Mollisols (average
117 cm), of fine loam texture with gravel fragment up to 30%.

**Vegetation:** This low-stature shrubland is dominated by a combination
of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* and *Symphoricarpos oreophilus*,
sometimes one more dominant than the other, but both always present with
at least 10% cover. Other shrubs that may be present include
*Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ribes* spp., and *Purshia tridentata*. The
understory is sparsely to occasionally thickly dominated by grasses.
*Pseudoroegneria spicata* is always present and usually the most
abundant grass with 2-10% cover. Other grasses commonly present include
*Festuca idahoensis, Poa fendleriana, Achnatherum nelsonii ssp. dorei (=
Stipa columbiana), Achnatherum lettermanii (= Stipa lettermanii), Bromus
tectorum*, and *Melica bulbosa*. Common forbs include *Lupinus caudatus,
Achillea millefolium, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Collinsia parviflora*, and
*Helianthella uniflora*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 13-Jul-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known from northern Nevada, Idaho, and
Wyoming and may also occur in Utah.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S3, NV:S5, UT?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M331D:CC, M332A:CC, M332E:CC,
M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton); USFS (Shoshone)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Jones and Ogle 2000, Tueller
and Eckert 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001033--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Achnatherum occidentale* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Western Needlegrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-western-needlegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Mountain Big Sagebrush / Western Needlegrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#mountain-big-sagebrush-western-needlegrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This is a sagebrush opening in *Pinus contorta* or *Pinus
ponderosa* forests in the East Cascades and Modoc Plateau of
south-central Oregon and northeastern California. It is found between
4800 and 4900 feet in elevation on very deep Mazama ash deposits under
5-7 inches of loamy sand. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is the
dominant shrub, with up to 10-30% cover in the Deschutes National Forest
and 55% in the one plot from central Oregon. *Achnatherum occidentale (=
Stipa occidentalis)* is the only grass reported from this community in
central Oregon, while *Carex rossii* and *Elymus elymoides* were
occasional in the East Cascades. Prominent forbs are *Eriogonum flavum,
Eriogonum umbellatum, Eriogonum ovalifolium, Polygonum phytolaccifolium,
Lupinus* spp., *Eriophyllum lanatum* and *Antennaria dimorpha*.

**Classification Comments:** This is a fairly distinct, but very poorly
sampled, community. Volland (1976) describes the type as big sagebrush /
needlegrass, between 4800 and 4900 feet, with his picture looking very
much like an *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* stand. It is
characterized by the very deep Mazama ash deposits under 5-7 inches of
loamy sand. Johnson and Clausnitzer (1992) only have one stand, which
they state might be an early seral stage of the *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana / Carex geyeri* community. Farther east (on BLM and
private lands between 4000 and 4800 feet in elevation) is an *Artemisia
tridentata / Stipa occidentalis* association which is fairly different
(with a different subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* (likely *ssp.
thermopola*), on sandy soils, and with different associated grasses
(*Festuca idahoensis* and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*). This
latter type has only been sampled by the Oregon Natural Heritage
Program.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Carex geyeri* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001532)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Carex geyeri* community
    (Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Stipa occidentalis*
    association (Barbour and Major 1988) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Stipa occidentalis* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   big sagebrush / needlegrass (Volland 1976) ?

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs in scattered locations of this
mountainous region, which is characterized by a temperate continental
climate. Summers are cool (mean temperature of the warmest month is \<72
degrees F). Annual precipitation is light, between 8 and 15 inches
annually, most falling as snow during winter months. The region has a
high frequency of dry lightning storms in late summer.

This association occupies steep upper slopes to rolling terrain on
ridgetops, on southerly aspects usually above 2130 m elevation. Soils
are derived from residuum and colluvium of igneous, sedimentary, and
metamorphic rocks. Textures are sandy loams to clay loams in the
subsurface horizons, with high percentages of coarse fragments (25-70%).
Soils supporting stands of this subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* do
not have a carbonate layer in the soil profile.

**Vegetation:** This association is poorly described. It is dominated by
a 1- to 2-m tall layer of the evergreen microphyllous shrub *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, which in one stand sampled had 55% cover. No
other shrubs occur. The only graminoid reported in the herbaceous layer
is the perennial bunchgrass *Achnatherum occidentale (= Stipa
occidentalis)*, but with cover less than 10%. Perennial forbs are common
and include *Eriogonum flavum, Lupinus* spp., *Eriophyllum lanatum* and
*Polygonum phytolaccifolium*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** Johnson and Clausnitzer (1992) report that this may
be an early seral stage of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Carex
geyeri* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001532) resulting from
overgrazing. Barbour and Major (1988) report an *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana / Stipa occidentalis* association on the Modoc Plateau of
northeastern California, but its relationship to the association
described here is uncertain.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 4-Jan-1994

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 29-Mar-1999

**GReasons:** This is a rare and restricted type, with no protected
examples. It is presently known only from central Oregon, but could
possibly be found in northeastern California or northern Nevada or
western Idaho. All known occurrences are small. Its occurrence on fairly
fragile, sandy soils makes it easily damaged by cattle, which are
ubiquitous where it is found. While there may be additional occurrences
in Oregon and possibly northeastern California, it is not likely to be
common anywhere.

**Ranking Author:** J.S. Kagan **Version:** 24-Mar-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Known only from central Oregon, it could possibly be found in
northeastern California, northern Nevada or western Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, ID?, NV?, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M332G:??

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Deschutes)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Barbour and Major 1988, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992, ORNHP unpubl. data,
Volland 1976, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001020--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Balsamorhiza sagittata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Arrowleaf Balsamroot Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-arrowleaf-balsamroot-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-62 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Balsamorhiza sagittata*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342G:CC, M331H:??, M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Francis 1983, Hess and Wasser 1982, Komarkova 1986, Terwilliger and
Tiedemann 1978, Tiedemann et al. 1987, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL001021--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Bromus carinatus* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / California Brome Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-california-brome-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-63 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** Hironaka et al.\'s (1983) *Artemisia
vaseyana \"spiciformis\" / Bromus carinatus* is represented in the NVC
by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis / Bromus carinatus* Shrubland
(CEGL002989), as the sagebrush has been elevated to subspecies
*Artemisia tridentata spp. spiciformis*, so this reference does not
apply to stands of *Artemisia tridentata ssp vaseyana*. Lewis (1971)
refers to *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Bromus marginatus /
Festuca idahoensis*. Jensen et al. (1988a, b) have an *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Bromus carinatus*
type, where the *Symphoricarpos* is present in 90% of plots with just
under 10% cover on average. Mooney (1985) describes an *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Elymus cinereus / Bromus carinatus* type,
with only 1-5% *Bromus carinatus* and 25-50% *Elymus cinereus*.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Bromus carinatus* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, ID:S3, NV:S4, UT?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Jensen et al. 1988b, Lewis
1971, Mooney 1985, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL008651--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Carex exserta* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Shorthair Sedge Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-shorthair-sedge-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-64 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 6-May-2002

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*-dominated
shrublands occupy the coolest and moistest climate zone of the
*Artemisia tridentata* shrubland complex. Associations often occur above
lower treeline as patches within montane or subalpine coniferous
forests. The climate regime is cool, semi-arid with yearly precipitation
ranging from 25-60 cm. Much of the yearly precipitation falls as snow,
which may cover the ground for long periods in winter. Temperatures are
continental with large annual and diurnal variation.

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 6-May-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001023--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis - Bromus carinatus* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue - California Brome Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue---california-brome-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-65 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Festuca idahoensis-Bromus
    carinatus* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4Q **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S4, OR:S3, UT?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Mooney 1985, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001024--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca thurberi* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Thurber\'s Fescue Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-thurbers-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-66 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Festuca thurberi* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S3S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331D:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Boyce 1977, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Francis 1983, Giese 1975, Hess 1981, Hess and Wasser 1982,
Komarkova 1986, Terwilliger and Tiedemann 1978, Tiedemann et al. 1987,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002931--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-67 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 14-Aug-2001

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association occurs on moderate slopes between 1372 to
2100 m (4500-6900 feet) elevation. Soils range from clay loam to sandy
loams. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is the dominant shrub.
*Purshia tridentata, Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Ericameria* sp.,
*Artemisia tripartita*, and *Amelanchier alnifolia* may be present at
upper elevations, and at lower altitudes *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*
and *Tetradymia canescens* can be common. *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata)* is the principal understory species. *Festuca idahoensis,
Pseudoroegneria spicata (= Agropyron spicatum)*, and *Koeleria
macrantha* may be present in small amounts. Other herbaceous species
that may be present include *Carex rossii, Achnatherum lettermanii,
Achnatherum nelsonii, Pseudoroegneria spicata, Poa pratensis, Antennaria
microphylla*, and *Eriogonum umbellatum*.

**Classification Comments:** The Global description is based on Hironaka
et al. (1983) and Grand Teton National Park and Zion National Park local
descriptions. Of all the references for this association, only Hironaka
et al. (1983) clearly reference an *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana /
Stipa comata* vegetation type. All the others (Blackburn 1967, Blackburn
et al. 1968c, 1971, Tueller et al. 1966, 1974, McLean 1970, Poulton
1955, DeVelice and Lesica 1993) do not provide information as to the
subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata*. Further clarification of which
published materials relate to this association is needed. Based on
habitat information and photos available for the study areas in Nevada,
these could reference *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Stipa
comata* vegetation types.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland (CEGL001039)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia vaseyana / Stipa comata* Habitat Type (Hironaka et
    al. 1983) =

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs on moderate slopes between 1372
to 2164 m (4500-7100 feet) elevation. Soils range from clay loam to
sandy loams.

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is the dominant
shrub. *Purshia tridentata, Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Ericameria* sp.,
*Artemisia tripartita*, and *Amelanchier alnifolia* may be present at
upper elevations, and at lower altitudes *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus,
Cercocarpus montanus*, and *Tetradymia canescens* can be common.
*Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)* is the principal understory
species. *Festuca idahoensis, Pseudoroegneria spicata (= Agropyron
spicatum)*, and *Koeleria macrantha* may be present in small amounts.
Other herbaceous species that may be present include *Bouteloua
gracilis, Poa fendleriana, Muhlenbergia* spp., *Carex rossii,
Achnatherum lettermanii, Achnatherum nelsonii, Pseudoroegneria spicata,
Poa pratensis, Antennaria microphylla*, and *Eriogonum umbellatum*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 13-Jul-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 14-Aug-2001

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known from southern Utah to southern
Idaho and western Wyoming. It is likely to occur in northern Nevada.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO, ID, MT, NV, UT, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:P, 9:C, 11:P, 19:P, 20:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 341:C, 342B:CP, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342I:CP,
M261G:CP, M331D:CC, M331G:CP, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton, Zion)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn 1967, Blackburn et al. 1968c, Blackburn et al.
1971, Cogan et al. 2004, DeVelice and Lesica 1993, Hironaka et al. 1983,
McLean 1970, Poulton 1955, Tueller and Blackburn 1974, Tueller et al.
1966, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001026--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leucopoa kingii - Koeleria macrantha* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Spike Fescue - Prairie Junegrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-spike-fescue---prairie-junegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-68 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Leucopoa kingii/Koeleria
    cristata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Mooney 1985, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001025--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leucopoa kingii* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Spike Fescue Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-spike-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-69 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland association is found either in patches or is
continuous on gentle to steep slopes of various aspects between 2529 to
2895 m (8300-9500 feet) elevation in southern Idaho, Wyoming, and
north-central Colorado. Soils are of a sedimentary substrate. The
moderately open shrub layer is dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana*. *Purshia tridentata* and *Chrysothamnus* may also be present.
Occasionally, *Pinus flexilis* is sparsely scattered throughout stands.
The herbaceous understory is dominated by *Leucopoa kingii*. Other
grasses present are *Festuca idahoensis, Koeleria macrantha*, and *Poa
secunda*. Common forbs include *Achillea millefolium, Balsamorhiza
sagittata, Eriogonum heracleoides, Lupinus argenteus*, and *Phlox
longifolia*.

**Classification Comments:** This association is similar to and may be
difficult to differentiate from *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana /
Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001533) and
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland
(CEGL001030). The percent cover and constancy of the dominant grass in
each type is key to differentiating these three associations. Many of
the forb species that contribute to the composition are present in all
of the communities. Common forb species include *Balsamorhiza sagittata,
Lupinus, Crepis*, and *Eriogonum* spp. (Hironaka et al. 1983, Johnson
and Simon 1987, Nelson and Jensen 1987).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001533)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrubland (CEGL001030)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Leucopoa kingii* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Leucopoa kingii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J.J. Miller **Version:** 17-May-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 16-Mar-2004

**GReasons:** This shrubland association is either found in a mosaic or
is continuous on gentle to steep slopes of various aspects between 2529
and 2895 m (8300-9500 feet) elevation in southern Idaho, north-central
Colorado, and some portion of Wyoming. Soils are of a sedimentary
substrate. A decline in the number, condition, and size of stands is due
to intensive livestock grazing, introduction of exotic species, land-use
conversion (Colorado), and alteration in fire regime. Off-road vehicle
recreation also results in an increase of two-track road development and
fragmentation of stands.

**Ranking Author:** J.J. Miller **Version:** 17-May-2004

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This shrubland association is found in southern Idaho and
north-central Colorado, as well as Wyoming. It may also occur in Nevada
but has not been substantiated there.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S1S2, ID:S3, NV?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341B:??, 342:C, M331E:C?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hess
1981, Hironaka et al. 1983, Johnson and Simon 1987, Johnston 1987,
Nelson and Jensen 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001027--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leymus cinereus* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Great Basin Lyme Grass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-great-basin-lyme-grass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-70 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Leymus cinereus* Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001479)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Leymus cinereus* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO, ID:S2, MT, NV:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M332E:CC, M332G:CC,
M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Cooper et al. 1999,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Mooney
1985, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003476--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Monardella odoratissima* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Alpine Mountainbalm Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-alpine-mountainbalm-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-71 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001028--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Mountain Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#mountain-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pascopyrum smithii*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001047)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Pascopyrum smithii* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S1S2, MT:S3?, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C, 10:C, 19:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342E:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC, M332D:C?, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Rzedowski 1981, Skull Point Mine Application n.d., Skull Point Mine
Permit Renewal n.d., Smith 1966, Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002770--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Phlox condensata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Dwarf Phlox Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-dwarf-phlox-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Mountain Big Sagebrush / Phlox Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#mountain-big-sagebrush-phlox-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 25-Jun-2001

**Concept Auth.:** D. Pritchett

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** D. Pritchett **Version:** 1-Apr-2000

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 25-Jun-2001

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341D:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Pritchett pers. comm., Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001029--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-72 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** C. Murphy

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Volcanic Rock and Cinder Land (CES304.791)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** Stands of the plant association are known from Craters of
the Moon National Monument in Idaho and scattered locations in
south-central and southeastern Oregon. It is noted in northern and
central Nevada, but these may be early seral stands of other *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana* plant associations. Although uncommon
throughout the range of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, at Craters
of the Moon National Monument, this plant association is the most
widespread vegetation type. At the national monument, the plant
association is found on xeric sites with shallow soil. Sites are usually
on (but not limited to) lava flows and cinder buttes. *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana* dominates stands, though other shrubs, such as
*Ericameria* spp. (= *Chrysothamnus* spp.), *Eriogonum microthecum,
Leptodactylon pungens*, and *Purshia tridentata*, are also common. *Poa
secunda* dominates the relatively sparse herbaceous understory. Other
perennial grasses, such as *Achnatherum thurberianum* and
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*, are occasionally found on pockets of better
soil. Common forbs include *Eriogonum heracleoides, Eriogonum
ovalifolium*, and *Eriogonum umbellatum*.

**Classification Comments:** In contrast to stands with noticeable
*Achnatherum thurberianum, Festuca idahoensis, Hesperostipa comata*, or
*Pseudoroegneria spicata, Poa secunda* is the only perennial grass of
significance in late-seral *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Poa
secunda* stands (Day and Wright 1985). Similar plant associations
documented in northern and central Nevada, such as *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana / Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus / Poa secunda / Wyethia
mollis, Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Poa secunda / Balsamorhiza
sagittata*, and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos
oreophilus / Poa secunda*, are described as \`low seral\' communities
(Tueller and Eckert 1987). They are probably seral to other *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus* plant
associations. For example, the indicator grass species *Poa secunda* had
the highest constancy and cover in late-seral *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus / Elymus trachycaulus* and
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
Festuca idahoensis* plant associations (Tueller and Eckert 1987).

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Elymus trachycaulus* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Festuca idahoensis* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Poa secunda* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus /
    Poa secunda / Wyethia mollis* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Poa secunda / Balsamorhiza
    sagittata* (Tueller and Eckert 1987) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Poa secunda* (Day and
    Wright 1985) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** C. Murphy **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 19-Jan-2001

**GReasons:** This plant association is widely scattered in eastern
Oregon, locally common in Idaho, and probably present in Nevada.
Rangewide, however, it is not abundant and it is discontinuously
distributed. There are less than 100 element occurrences of this type
known, though some occurrences cover large areas. The association is
probably limited to the least productive soils within the range of
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*. At lower elevations, these poorly
developed and exposed soils are susceptible to surface disturbance and
subsequent *Bromus tectorum* invasion. Once *Bromus tectorum* has
invaded the *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* understory, recovery of
the original association after prescribed burns or wildfire becomes very
difficult.

**Ranking Author:** C. Murphy **Version:** 19-Jan-2001

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This plant association is known from Craters of the Moon
National Monument in Idaho, south-central and southeastern Oregon, and,
possibly, north and central Nevada (Day and Wright 1985, Tueller and
Eckert 1987, ORNHP 2001). The distribution of this association is
discontinuous, partly due to the restriction of *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana* to cooler and moister higher elevations. However, within
the range of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, the discontinuous
distribution also probably reflects the lack of sites unsuitable for the
growth of perennial grasses other than *Poa secunda*.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S3, NV?, OR:SU

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Craters of the Moon)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Day and Wright 1985,
Driscoll et al. 1984, ORNHP unpubl. data, Tueller and Eckert 1987,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001031--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa fendleriana* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass - Muttongrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass---muttongrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-73 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Pseudoroegneria spicata-Poa
    fendleriana* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Mooney 1985, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001030--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland {#mountain-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-74 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This is a common, abundant, and widespread sagebrush
community in the western U.S. It occurs from 1829 to 3048 m (6000-10,000
feet) elevation, on 10-59% slopes, usually on the upper part of the
slope, or on ridgetops, from northeast- to south-facing aspects. Soils
are generally deep Mollisols (average depth from one study was 104 cm).
This association is dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*,
with a conspicuous herbaceous undergrowth often dominated by
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*. Other shrubs are usually present, but no one
species consistently so, all generally with low cover (\<10%). Shrub
species include *Chrysothamnus* spp., *Tetradymia canescens, Purshia
tridentata*, and *Amelanchier alnifolia*. Note that stands usually lack
*Symphoricarpos oreophilus*. The herbaceous undergrowth is dominated by
grasses, *Pseudoroegneria spicata* usually having the highest cover. In
disturbed stands, *Bromus tectorum* can be more abundant. Other grass
species include *Poa fendleriana, Poa secunda (= Poa sandbergii),
Bouteloua gracilis, Elymus lanceolatus (= Agropyron dasystachyum),
Koeleria macrantha, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Elymus
elymoides (= Sitanion hystrix)*. *Festuca idahoensis* is usually not
present, but if so then in very low amounts. Common forbs include
*Eriogonum umbellatum, Lupinus sericeus, Lupinus caudatus, Comandra
umbellata, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Lithospermum ruderale*, and *Achillea
millefolium*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leucopoa kingii* Shrubland
    (CEGL001025)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Agropyron spicatum - Poa
    fendleriana* association (Mooney 1985) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Agropyron spicatum* Community
    Type (Jensen et al. 1988a) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Agropyron spicatum* Community
    Type (Jensen et al. 1988b) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Agropyron spicatum* Plant
    Association (Baker and Kennedy 1985) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Agropyron spicatum*
    association (Mooney 1985) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia vaseyana / Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type (Hironaka et
    al. 1983) =

-   Big sagebrush community (Lewis 1971) B

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This is a common, abundant, and widespread sagebrush
community in the western U.S. It occurs from 1829 to 3048 m (6000-10,000
feet) elevation, on 10-59% slopes, usually on the upper part of the
slope, and on ridgetops, from northeast- to south-facing aspects. Soils
are generally deep Mollisols (average depth from one study was 104 cm).
Soil textures range from loams to gravely clays.

**Vegetation:** This association is dominated by *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana*, with a conspicuous herbaceous undergrowth often
dominated by *Pseudoroegneria spicata*. Other shrubs are usually
present, but no one species consistently so, all generally with low
cover (\<10%). Shrub species include *Chrysothamnus* spp., *Tetradymia
canescens, Purshia tridentata*, and *Amelanchier alnifolia*. Note that
stands usually lack *Symphoricarpos oreophilus*. The herbaceous
undergrowth is dominated by grasses, *Pseudoroegneria spicata* usually
having the highest cover. In disturbed stands, *Bromus tectorum* can be
more abundant. Other grass species include *Poa fendleriana, Poa secunda
(= Poa sandbergii), Bouteloua gracilis, Elymus lanceolatus (= Agropyron
dasystachyum), Koeleria macrantha, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata)*, and *Elymus elymoides (= Sitanion hystrix)*. *Festuca
idahoensis* is usually not present, but if so then in very low amounts.
Common forbs include *Eriogonum umbellatum, Lupinus sericeus, Lupinus
caudatus, Comandra umbellata, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Lithospermum
ruderale*, and *Achillea millefolium*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 13-Jul-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This common association is known from Nevada, Oregon, Idaho,
Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2?, ID:S4, MT, NV:S4, OR:S3, UT?, WY:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331G:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC,
342D:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC, M331A:CC, M331B:CC, M331D:CC, M331I:CC,
M332A:CC, M332B:CC, M332C:CP, M332D:CP, M332E:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton); USFS (Bighorn, Medicine Bow,
Shoshone)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker and Kennedy 1985, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Cooper et al. 1999, Current 1984, Driscoll et al.
1984, Eddleman and Jaindl 1994, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al.
1988a, Jensen et al. 1988b, Jones and Ogle 2000, Lewis 1971, Lewis
1975a, Mooney 1985, Smith 1966, Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.832--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance

### Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, Midwest, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This broadly distributed alliance is found in the western
United States and southwestern Canada on dry steppes. It occurs
primarily west of the Continental Divide; however, this description is
also based on the vegetation in western North Dakota and eastern
Montana. This alliance occurs on flat to steeply sloping sites with
southerly aspects. Sites with little slope tend to have deep soils,
while those with steeper slopes have shallow to moderately deep soils.
Soil texture is loam, sandy loam, or clay loam. Shrubs are conspicuous
in this alliance, but herbaceous species usually have equal or greater
cover. The vegetation included in this alliance is characterized by a
somewhat sparse to moderately dense (20-70% cover) shrub layer that is
dominated (or codominated with at least 40% relative cover in mixed
stands) by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*. The herbaceous
layer is relatively sparse and often dominated by perennial graminoids
(\<20% cover) that occupy patches in the shrub matrix. *Atriplex
confertifolia, Artemisia frigida, Purshia tridentata*, and
*Krascheninnikovia lanata* are common associates. The herbaceous stratum
can be diverse and have moderate cover, but perennial graminoids
typically total \<20% cover. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* is one of the
most common species. *Bouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua gracilis, Bromus
japonicus* (especially on disturbed areas), *Carex filifolia, Koeleria
macrantha*, and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)* are common but
rarely dominant. Forbs include *Achillea millefolium, Camelina
microcarpa, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Opuntia* spp.,
and *Phlox* spp. Mosses and lichens, such as *Selaginella densa*, may
occur on bare ground. Diagnostic of this alliance is the *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*-dominated shrub layer that lacks a
significant perennial graminoid layer (\<20% cover) or has over 40%
total cover of shrubs.

**Classification Comments:** Currently, this alliance includes stands in
North Dakota that are attributed to the *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland
Alliance (A.829). In the Midwest, the difference between these two
alliances is not well understood. It is likely that plants identified as
*Artemisia tridentata* are actually *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis*. After further review, it may be that only one of the two
alliances will be listed for the Midwest. The *Artemisia tridentata*
Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1521), which has a sparse shrub cover and
many stands on floodplains, may be confused with this alliance in the
Midwest. Some stands in the *Sarcobatus vermiculatus* Intermittently
Flooded Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1554) may be similar (USFS 1992).

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance (A.2548)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance (A.2549)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1522)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
    Shrubland Alliance (A.830)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance (A.829)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2555)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1527)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other similar *Artemisia tridentata* alliances by the
nominal subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* and by the lack of a
significant perennial graminoid layer (\<20% cover) in the shrubland
alliances. This alliance contains stands dominated (or codominated) by
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, which contributes at least 40%
of the total sagebrush shrub cover (relative cover) in mixed-shrub
stands to be included in this alliance. However, If mixed with 40%
relative shrub cover of *Artemisia arbuscula*, then the stand is
classified as one the *Artemisia arbuscula* alliances because 40% or
more relative shrub cover of *Artemisia arbuscula* is diagnostic of
those alliances. Some stands in the *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland
Alliance (A.829) may be very similar.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Big Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   SRM Cover Type #403 - Wyoming Big Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) =

-   Western Shrub and Grasslands Combinations: 55: Sagebrush-Steppe
    (*Artemisia-Agropyron*) (Kuchler 1964) I Western Shrub: 38: Great
    Basin Sagebrush (*Artemisia*) (Kuchler 1964) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The plant associations in this alliance are widely
distributed through the northern and eastern Great Basin and occur as
far east as the Dakotas. Climate ranges from arid in the western Great
Basin to subhumid in the northern plains. The amount and reliability of
growing-season moisture increase eastward and with increasing elevation.
These shrublands occur from less than 1000 m elevation in the Columbia
Basin and northern Great Plains to over 2500 m in the Rocky Mountains
and Great Basin ranges. The alliance occurs on flat to steeply sloping
upland sites, on a wide variety of landform positions. These include
alluvial fans and terraces, toeslopes, lower and middle slopes, draws,
badly eroded badland slopes, and foothills. Sites with little slope tend
to have deep soils, while those with steeper slopes have shallow to
moderately deep soils (USFS 1992). Sloping sites tend to have southerly
aspects. Soil texture is loam, sandy loam, or clay loam (Hansen and
Hoffman 1988), and there is often a significant amount of coarse
fragments in the soil profile. Hironaka et al. (1983) reported that most
of their *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* habitat types occurred
on calcareous soils, often with some form of a cemented duripan or
silica-hardpan at about 1 m in depth.

In eastern Idaho and western Wyoming, *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* occupies somewhat dry, low-elevation sites, while
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* or *Artemisia cana* occupy deep
alluvial soils of drainage bottoms at low elevation, and *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana* occupies cooler, moister upland sites at
higher elevation. In addition to *Artemisia tridentata* and *Artemisia
cana*, other associated vegetation types include *Atriplex
confertifolia, Ericameria* spp. or *Chrysothamnus* spp. shrublands,
*Populus tremuloides, Pinus ponderosa, Pinus contorta, Abies grandis*,
or *Pseudotsuga menziesii* forests, *Pinus - Juniperus* woodlands, or
mesic herbaceous communities.

**Vegetation:** This broadly distributed alliance is found in the
western United States and southwestern Canada on dry steppes. The
vegetation included in this alliance is characterized by a somewhat
sparse to moderately dense (20-70% cover) shrub layer that is dominated
(or codominated with at least 40% relative cover in mixed stands) by
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*. The herbaceous layer is
relatively sparse and often dominated by perennial graminoids (\<20%
cover) that occupy patches in the shrub matrix. The shrub stratum is
typically 0.3-0.7 m tall, although in Washington and western Idaho it
may be up to 2 m in height. *Atriplex confertifolia, Artemisia frigida,
Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Ericameria* spp., *Chrysothamnus* spp., and
*Krascheninnikovia lanata* are common associates. Locally, *Purshia
tridentata, Peraphyllum ramosissimum*, or *Gutierrezia sarothrae* may
also be common. The herbaceous layer is relatively sparse and often
dominated by perennial graminoids (\<20% cover) that occupy patches in
the shrub matrix. In arid, far western stands, the understory may be
depauperate and is usually dominated by *Poa secunda, Elymus elymoides*,
and scattered annuals (Hironaka et al. 1983). From central Idaho
eastward, *Pseudoroegneria spicata* is the most common associate. Other
locally abundant grass associates include *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata), Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana), Elymus
lanceolatus, Carex filifolia, Bouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua
gracilis, Koeleria macrantha, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Leymus ambiguus*, and *Pascopyrum smithii*. Forbs form a
minor and highly variable portion of this vegetation. Recurrent species
include *Achillea millefolium, Camelina microcarpa, Balsamorhiza
sagittata, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Erigeron* spp., *Opuntia* spp., and
*Phlox* spp. Mosses and lichens, such as *Selaginella densa* and
*Tortula ruralis*, may occur on bare ground, and in Washington and Idaho
stands may cover up to 50% of the ground surface. Diagnostic of this
alliance is the *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*-dominated shrub
layer that lacks a significant perennial graminoid layer (\<20% cover)
or has over 40% total cover of shrubs.

**Dynamics:** Complex ecological interactions between fire regimes,
grazing history, and climate patterns result in equally complex patterns
of species structure and composition in *Artemisia tridentata*. These
present corresponding difficulties in the classification of these
shrublands, which have been compounded by the influence of human
settlement and agricultural patterns. What follows is a summary of some
of the influences of altered fire regimes, and grazing history on
*Artemisia tridentata* shrublands and shrub herbaceous vegetation.

*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* shrublands may represent either
drier or more disturbed examples of the *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* shrubland and shrub herbaceous alliances. Shrub densities
typically increase with overgrazing of the bunchgrass component or with
increasing summer drought (West 1983). There is considerable debate over
whether present shrub-dominated stands are actually degraded \'steppe\'
(e.g., Shrub Herbaceous physiognomy), and if the stands will return to
steppe with changes in grazing and fire management. *Artemisia
tridentata* is inhibited by fire, and excessive grazing may decrease
fire frequency due to consumption of herbaceous forage, resulting in
increased shrub density. Conversely, invasion by non-native annual
grasses (e.g., *Bromus tectorum* or *Bromus japonicus*) may increase
fire frequency sufficiently to eliminate the shrubs from the stands
(Hironaka et al. 1983). With a change in fire frequency, species
composition will be altered as well (West 1983). With a high fire
frequency, every 2-5 years, perennial grasses and shrubs are eliminated
and non-native annual grasses dominate. At fire-return intervals of
10-30 years, short-lived resprouting shrubs such as *Chrysothamnus* or
*Tetradymia* spp. dominate. At fire intervals of 30-70 years, a mixture
of perennial bunch grasses and shrubs is maintained. Finally, in the
complete absence of fire, deep-rooted shrubs such as *Artemisia
tridentata* become the theoretical dominants.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance occurs from northeastern California and eastern
Oregon across the northern Great Basin, Utah and dry habitats of the
Rocky Mountains to the northern Great Plains of Montana, Wyoming, and
North and South Dakota. Associations are also reported from the
intermountain parks of Colorado, and from British Columbia, Canada. The
alliance has not been reported from either Arizona or New Mexico but may
occur there.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** BC, CA, CO, ID, MT, ND, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 19:C, 20:C, 25:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 341A:CC,
341B:CC, 341C:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC,
342H:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M331B:CC, M331D:CC, M331G:C?,
M331I:CC, M332A:CC, M332B:CC, M332C:CC, M332D:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC,
M334A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Dinosaur, Hovenweep, Theodore Roosevelt); USFS
(Custer, Little Missouri, Roosevelt, Thunder Basin)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1982b, Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Bear
Creek Uranium Mine Application n.d., Bighorn Coal Mine n.d., Blackburn
1967, Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al. 1968b, Blackburn et al.
1969a, Blackburn et al. 1969b, Blackburn et al. 1969c, Blackburn et al.
1969d, Blackburn et al. 1971, Brotherson and Brotherson 1981, Caicco and
Wellner 1983i, Caicco and Wellner 1983j, Caicco and Wellner 1983k,
Caicco and Wellner 1983l, Chappell et al. 1997, Cotter-Ferguson Project
n.d., Daubenmire 1970, Day and Wright 1985, DeVelice and Lesica 1993,
DeVelice et al. 1991, Doescher et al. 1986, Driese et al. 1997, Earth
Resource Technology n.d., Ellis and Hackney 1981, Faber-Langendoen et
al. 1996, Ferchau 1973, Fisser 1964, Fisser 1970, Francis 1983, Giese
1975, Gross 1955, Hall 1973, Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Heinze et al.
1962, Hess 1981, Hess and Wasser 1982, Hironaka 1978, Hironaka et al.
1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Johnson and Simon 1987, Johnston 1987,
Keammerer 1987, Knight et al. 1987, Komarkova 1986, Kuchler 1964,
Leucite Hills Mine Application n.d., Lewis 1975a, Lundberg 1977, Marr et
al. 1979, McArthur and Welch 1986, McLean 1970, Moretti 1979, Moretti
and Brotherson 1982, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Nichols 1964a, Nichols
1964b, ORNHP unpubl. data, Poulton 1955, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995,
Shiflet 1994, Skull Point Mine Application n.d., Skull Point Mine Permit
Renewal n.d., Smith unpubl. data b, Steger 1970, Stoecker-Keammerer
Consultants n.d.a, Strong 1980, Sweetwater Uranium Project 1978,
Terwilliger et al. 1979a, Thorne Ecological Institute 1973a, Thorne
Ecological Institute 1973b, Tiedemann et al. 1987, Tisdale 1947, USFS
1992, Van Pelt 1978, West et al. 1984, Winward 1970

#### CEGL000993--*Artemisia tridentata - Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland

#### Basin Big Sagebrush - Shadscale Shrubland {#basin-big-sagebrush---shadscale-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush - Shadscale Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush---shadscale-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** ?, mod. D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Semi-Desert Shrub-Steppe (CES304.788)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sagebrush shrubland occurs in the northwestern Great
Plains and adjacent basins and mountains of the western United States,
especially in badlands regions. Stands occur on shallow to deep soils
with a comparably wide range of textures. Soils are derived from
sandstone and shale sedimentary formations, including those with a
calcareous composition, and they tend to have both high pH (7.6-8.4) and
conductivity. This type is apparently not restricted by slope or aspect,
occurring on both alluvial fans/terraces and highly eroded badlands with
steep slopes (\>80%). The known elevational range is from approximately
900-1500 m (3000-4700 feet). The visual aspect of this association,
especially where it occurs on badlands and eroded surfaces, is often
that of a depauperate shrubland, often with less than 25% cover.
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* and *Atriplex confertifolia*
constitute from 5-25% combined cover, with *Artemisia tridentata*
strongly dominant. In the Bighorn Basin and Bighorn Sedimentary
Mountains Sections of Montana, other shrubs with greater than 50%
constancy (but \<5% canopy cover) include *Atriplex nuttallii,
Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Krascheninnikovia lanata*, and *Ericameria
nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)*. Subshrubs *Eriogonum brevicaule*
and *Eriogonum pauciflorum* are relatively constant on a regional basis.
There is little consistency to the composition of the herbaceous layer,
which varies from site to site across the region. The graminoids
constitute the next most abundant component, but their combined cover
usually does not exceed 5%; those grasses with the highest constancy are
*Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Hesperostipa comata (=
Stipa comata)*, and *Aristida purpurea*. *Phlox hoodii, Sphaeralcea
coccinea* and *Opuntia polyacantha* appear to have the highest constancy
values, but seldom exceed 1% cover.

**Classification Comments:** With additional review, this type will
likely be combined with the more widespread *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis - Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland (CEGL001040). DeVelice
and Lesica (1993) provide the only formal key to this type; they may
have erred by not stipulating that *Artemisia tridentata* must be
present (at any cover value) and noting only that *Atriplex
confertifolia* be well-represented (\>5% canopy cover). This association
is distinguished by the predominance of the shrub layer (*Artemisia
tridentata* dominant, *Atriplex confertifolia* subdominant) and the
sparse, depauperate nature of the herbaceous component. With additional
data, this type may also be appropriately classified in the sparse
vegetation class.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis - Atriplex confertifolia*
    Shrubland (CEGL001040)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia - Atriplex - Agropyron* Community (Brown 1971) F

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Atriplex confertifolia* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   *Atriplex - Artemisia* Community (Brown 1971) F

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Within badlands landscapes this type is found on
shallow, heavy-textured, and highly erosive soils, and on
terrace/alluvial fan landscapes, it is associated with excessively
drained substrates, often of a calcareous nature. Soils have
consistently high pH and high conductivity values (within the range
found for some *Sarcobatus vermiculatus* communities) and are derived
from sedimentary parent materials. In badland settings, occupied slopes
range from shallow to steep (\>80%) with all aspects represented. For
Montana sites the known range of elevation is from 900-1500 m (3000-4700
feet). Landscape position and site parameters have been cursorily
described, at best, for the Wyoming and North Dakota occurrences.

**Vegetation:** The visual aspect of this association, especially where
it occurs on badlands and eroded surfaces, is often that of a
depauperate shrubland. Though shrub canopy cover for the modal
expression of the type is less than the 25% required for a shrubland
descriptor, the cover of all other layers is even less, rendering this
type a shrubland. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* and *Atriplex
confertifolia* constitute from 5-25% combined cover, with *Artemisia
tridentata* strongly dominant. In the Bighorn Basin and Bighorn
Sedimentary Mountains Sections of Montana, other shrubs with greater
than 50% constancy (but \<5% canopy cover) include *Atriplex nuttallii,
Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Krascheninnikovia lanata (= Ceratoides
lanata)*, and *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)*.
Subshrubs *Eriogonum brevicaule* and *Eriogonum pauciflorum* are
relatively constant on a regional basis. There is little consistency to
the composition of the herbaceous layer, which varies from site to site
and across the region. The graminoids constitute the next most abundant
component, but their combined cover usually does not exceed 5%; those
grasses with the highest constancy are *Achnatherum hymenoides (=
Oryzopsis hymenoides), Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, and
*Aristida purpurea*. *Phlox hoodii, Sphaeralcea coccinea* and *Opuntia
polyacantha* appear to have the highest constancy values, but seldom
exceed 1% cover.

If one accepts the descriptions and data reported in three separate
papers (Brown 1971, Knight et al. 1987, DeVelice and Lesica 1993) as
representing variants of one given type, then there is considerable
vegetation, habitat and geographic variability manifest within this
type. This community usually occurs as small patches but ranges to large
patches on less precipitous terrain. The eastern Montana badland
expressions, as well as those of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation
Area, tend to have lower total canopy cover (13% average) with widely
spaced individuals of the diagnostic species *Artemisia tridentata (ssp.
wyomingensis*) (G.P. Jones pers. comm. 1998) and *Atriplex
confertifolia*. Conversely, the Pryor Mountains expressions average
upwards of 30% canopy cover for the shrub component alone. A melange of
undergrowth forbs is present with the representation depending upon the
local flora; however, *Opuntia polyacantha* is common to all expressions
of the type, as are the grasses *Achnatherum hymenoides, Aristida
purpurea* and *Hesperostipa comata*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** ?, mod. D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:**
23-Aug-1999

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:** Though the type occurs in small patches and its area of
occupancy is small, it is apparently secure due to both its inaccessible
landscape position, lack of palatable plants and lack of extractable
resources.

**Ranking Author: Version:** 1-Feb-1996

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This sagebrush shrubland occurs in the northwestern Great
Plains and adjacent basins and mountains of the western United States,
especially in badlands regions, ranging from North Dakota west to
Wyoming and Montana.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT:S4, ND:S2S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 342A:CC, M331G:??

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Theodore Roosevelt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Brown 1971, DeVelice and
Lesica 1993, DeVelice et al. 1991, Driscoll et al. 1984, Jones pers.
comm., Knight et al. 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001040--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis - Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush - Shadscale Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush---shadscale-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Wyoming Big Sagebrush - Shadscale Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#wyoming-big-sagebrush---shadscale-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Ash and Tuff Badland (CES304.081)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This type is found irregularly in the Great Basin and
northwestern Great Plains of the United States. Stands are dominated by
shrubs. Dominants include *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, with
*Atriplex confertifolia* as an associate.

**Classification Comments:** This type needs further characterization.
In the Great Plains the type may be synonymous with *Artemisia
tridentata - Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland (CEGL000993).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata - Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland
    (CEGL000993)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis-Atriplex confertifolia*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:** Stands are dominated by shrubs. Dominants include
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, with *Atriplex confertifolia*
as an associate.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 31-Jan-2000

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 23-Feb-1994

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This type is found irregularly in the Great Basin and
northwestern Great Plains of the United States, ranging from western
North Dakota, southwest to Utah and California.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S2?, MT:S3, ND:S2S3, OR:S4, UT:S3S5, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 331D:PP, 331F:PP, 341A:CC, 342A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Hovenweep, Theodore Roosevelt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Knight et al. 1987, West et al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001048--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis - Peraphyllum ramosissimum / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush - Squaw-apple / Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush---squaw-apple-idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-75 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J.S. Kagan

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is an open, sagebrush steppe habitat,
dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, which varies
between 20-50% cover. *Peraphyllum ramosissimum* is always present, but
at relatively low cover, ranging from 1-20%. Other shrubs present
include occasional *Purshia tridentata, Amelanchier alnifolia* and
*Ribes* sp. individuals. In degraded areas *Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*, and *Tetradymia
canescens* occur. *Festuca idahoensis* provides the majority of the
understory vegetation cover, with 10-50% cover and is found at all
sites. *Pseudoroegneria spicata, Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa
thurberiana), Poa secunda*, and *Elymus elymoides* all can be found.
Forbs include *Lupinus, Astragalus, Balsamorhiza*, and *Phlox* species.
All occurrences are on deep, well-drained, silty soils. Bare soil is
found only in grazed sites. Ungrazed areas have 10-20% cover of mosses
and lichens. Elevation ranges from 3000-5000 feet, with the association
found on north-facing slopes at the lower elevations, and south-facing
slopes at the higher sites. Most occurrences are flat to gentle slopes,
along valley margins or toe slopes.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis-Peraphyllum
    ramosissimum/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J.S. Kagan **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** This type occurs over a wide geographic area in eastern
Oregon, but in an extremely narrow band. Most occurrences are small,
found in an extensive sea of big sagebrush steppe. This is a rare plant
association, which occurs in fairly sensitive habitats. This type occurs
on valley margins, in deep soiled areas. It is possible that many areas
have been farmed, but the habitats are generally too dry to support
dryland agriculture, and available water is limited. The distribution of
*Peraphyllum ramosissimum* is probably the limiting factor for this
type, which has always been naturally rare. It is easily damaged by
heavy cattle grazing, and no areas are permanently protected from
cattle. It is known from a few small areas, with all known remnants on
BLM or private lands.

**Ranking Author:** J.S. Kagan **Version:** 23-Sep-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This type occurs over a wide geographic area in eastern
Oregon, but in an extremely narrow band. Most occurrences are small,
found in an extensive sea of big sagebrush steppe. It occurs in a narrow
band along the southern edge of the Blue and Wallowa Mountains, with
most occurrences at the northern end of the Owyhee Uplands and northern
Basin and Range sections of the Columbia Plateau ecoregion.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
ORNHP unpubl. data, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001050--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis - Purshia tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush - Bitterbrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush---bitterbrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-76 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis-Purshia
    tridentata/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3Q **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, CO:S1, ID, OR:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342G:C?, M242C:CC, M261G:CC,
M332G:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hess
and Wasser 1982, Komarkova 1986, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001046--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Indian Ricegrass Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-indian-ricegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-77 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Oryzopsis hymenoides*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, CO:S2S3, ID, OR:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC, 342G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1982b, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Ferchau 1973, Thorne Ecological Institute 1973a, Thorne
Ecological Institute 1973b, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001052--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Achnatherum thurberianum* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Thurber\'s Needlegrass Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-thurbers-needlegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-78 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland association occurs primarily in the Owyhee
Uplands ecoregional section in southwestern Idaho, southeastern Oregon,
and northern Nevada but also occurs in northeastern California. The
association occurs on gentle slopes with convex or straight
microtopography in mid- and upper-slope positions at 1210-1700 m
(4000-5600 feet) elevation. Soils are typically silt loams. *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* forms an open, medium-tall shrub canopy.
*Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)* is usually abundant;
*Poa secunda* is common to well-represented. Commonly associated
perennial forbs include *Phlox longifolia, Antennaria dimorpha, Crepis
occidentalis, Erigeron pumilus, Allium acuminatum*, and *Astragalus
purshii*.

**Classification Comments:** The association is described by Hironaka et
al. (1983) from stands located in Idaho. The occurrence and distribution
of the association is supported by numerous observations within the
Owyhee Uplands.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Stipa thurberiana*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 29-Jan-2001

**GReasons:** This moderately widespread association has declined
significantly in the past 100 years. The number and area of occurrences
and the overall range of the association continue to decline due to the
adverse and cumulative effects of livestock grazing, exotic species
establishment, and altered fire disturbance regimes. Few high-quality
stands remain. Approximately 25% or less of the remaining occurrences
are in high-quality condition or only slightly modified by grazing and
the establishment of exotic species. The viability of a large proportion
of remaining stands is jeopardized by losses in the abundance and vigor
of native perennial bunchgrass species, increased abundance of exotic
annual grass species, and the associated occurrence of more frequent,
intense fire disturbance events. The global rarity rank is changed from
G3? to G3 after review of rangewide element occurrence condition and
threats.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 29-Jan-2001

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The association is estimated to be moderately widespread with
a range of approximately 28,000 square miles.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S1?, ID:S1, NV:S3, OR:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968b, Blackburn et al. 1969b,
Blackburn et al. 1969c, Blackburn et al. 1969d, Blackburn et al. 1971,
Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983i, Caicco and
Wellner 1983j, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Murphy and
Rust 2000, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL000994--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Balsamorhiza sagittata* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Arrowleaf Balsamroot Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-arrowleaf-balsamroot-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-79 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Balsamorhiza sagittata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Loope 1969, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001041--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Bouteloua gracilis* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Blue Grama Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-blue-grama-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Blue Grama Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-blue-grama-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Bouteloua gracilis*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 23-Feb-1994

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This Wyoming big sagebrush type is found in the Great Basin
region of the western United States, and possibly into the Great Plains.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT?, ND, UT:S3S5, WY:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:??, 331G:??, 341:C, 342:C

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bighorn Coal Mine n.d., Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Fisser 1964, Fisser 1970, Keammerer 1987, Knight
et al. 1987, Nichols 1964a, Nichols 1964b, Smith unpubl. data b,
Stoecker-Keammerer Consultants n.d.a, Van Pelt 1978, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001042--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Carex filifolia* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Threadleaf Sedge Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-threadleaf-sedge-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Threadleaf Sedge Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-threadleaf-sedge-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association is known from sites within the
southwestern portion of the Bitterroot Mountains ecoregional section,
within east-central Idaho. It is suspected to occur in Montana and
Oregon but has not been documented. The plant association occurs within
a region of cool, arid climatic, on gentle terrain in valley bottom
positions. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* occurs in an open
shrub canopy. *Carex filifolia* is abundant in the understory;
*Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)* is well represented. *Opuntia
polyacantha, Astragalus purshii, Eriastrum sparsiflorum*, and *Phlox
hoodii ssp. muscoides (= Phlox muscoides)* are common to present.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Carex filifolia* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1Q **GRank Review Date:** 29-Oct-1997

**GReasons:** This plant association is expected to have occurred with
limited extent over a relatively wide range. It is presently known to
occur in the southwestern portion of the Bitterroot Mountains
ecoregional section, within east-central Idaho. It is suspected to occur
in Montana, Wyoming, and Oregon. Appropriate field inventories are
needed to resolve the distribution of the association. Agricultural land
development has resulted in loss of the association throughout much of
its historic range. One high-quality, representative stand is known from
east-central Idaho, with quantitative stand composition data. Additional
data are needed from throughout the range of the association to fully
determine species composition and environmental relations, successional
relations to floristically similar plant associations, and patterns in
stand size and distribution.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 29-Oct-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The plant association is known to occur in the southwestern
portion of the Bitterroot Mountains ecoregional section, within
east-central Idaho. It\'s been reported in Wyoming (but poorly
documented there) and is suspected to occur in Montana and Oregon.
Appropriate field inventories are needed to resolve the distribution of
the association.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1, MT?, OR?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331G:??, 342B:??, 342C:??, 342H:??, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983k,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001044--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Elymus albicans* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Montana Wild Rye Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-montana-wild-rye-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Thickspike Wheatgrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-thickspike-wheatgrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** In Montana, no distinction was made between
*Elymus lanceolatus* and *Elymus albicans* (Cooper and Jean 2001). This
type needs review of the taxonomy of *Elymus*. Also, it is suggested
that this is a shrub herbaceous type rather than shrubland.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Elymus lanceolatus ssp.
    albicans* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:SU, MT:S4, WY:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342G:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Cooper and Jean 2001,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Giese 1975, Gross 1955, Leucite Hills Mine
Application n.d., Lundberg 1977, Marr et al. 1979, Steger 1970,
Terwilliger et al. 1979a, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001043--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Bottlebrush Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-bottlebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-80 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1, NV:S4, OR:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342G:CC, 342H:CC, M332G:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001051--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Grass* Classif. Resp.: West {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-grass-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association is from the Columbia River Basin of
Oregon and Washington (Columbia Basin and western portion of the
Okanogan Highlands ecoregional sections) and the Snake River Plain
(Owyhee Uplands and Snake River Basalts ecoregional sections) in Idaho.
The association is restricted to sandy loam or uniformly high calcareous
silt loam soils which receive approximately 8-12 inches precipitation
annually. Stands are dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis*. *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)* and
*Elymus elymoides* are consistently present with *Hesperostipa comata (=
Stipa comata)*. *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus* is commonly associated.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Stipa comata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Little information is available, but this type is
apparently restricted to a particular edaphic situation. It occurs in
the drier areas of a semi-arid region; annual precipitation is between 8
and 12 inches, mostly as winter snows. Summer convective storms also
contribute to the annual precipitation.

This association is restricted to sandy loam or uniformly, highly
calcareous silt loam soils. B horizons are weakly to moderately
developed, and probably overlie C horizons with carbonate hardpans.
Sites where this association occurs are susceptible to wind erosion when
plant cover is destroyed, due to the low precipitation, warm
temperatures and sandy soils.

**Vegetation:** This association is poorly described in the literature.
It is dominated by the evergreen microphyllous shrub *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, with another microphyllous shrub,
*Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*, commonly present. Average cover is
unknown; and typically both shrubs are less than 1 m in height. The
herbaceous layer is dominated by the perennial bunchgrass *Hesperostipa
comata (= Stipa comata)*, with *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides)* and *Elymus elymoides* being common associates. Other
information on the herbaceous layer is not available. A cryptogamic
crust may be present on undisturbed stands of this association, with the
moss *Tortula ruralis* being important.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Leymus ambiguus Shrubland
    (CEGL001045)

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** It is probable that many stands have been severely
impacted by livestock grazing and converted to *Bromus
tectorum*-dominated communities.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust **Version:**
20-Sep-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 31-Oct-1997

**GReasons:** This plant association occurs within the Columbia River
Basin of Oregon and Washington (Columbia Basin and western portion of
the Okanogan Highlands ecoregional sections) and the Snake River Plain
(Owyhee Uplands and Snake River Basalts ecoregional sections) in Idaho.
The association is restricted to sandy, weakly developed soils. The
number, condition, and size of stands of this relatively wide-ranging
plant association have declined significantly due to land conversion to
cultivation, intensive range management, introduction of exotic species,
and alteration of fire disturbance regimes. Few high-quality occurrences
are known. Protected occurrences are typically not in good condition
and/or are small in size.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 31-Oct-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The plant association occurs within the Columbia River Basin
of Oregon and Washington (Columbia Basin and western portion of the
Okanogan Highlands ecoregional sections) and the Snake River Plain
(Owyhee Uplands and Snake River Basalts ecoregional sections) in Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S2, OR:S2, UT?, WA:S1?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342I:CC, M331D:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983k,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d., Winward 1970

#### CEGL001045--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Leymus ambiguus* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Rocky Mountain Lyme Grass Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-rocky-mountain-lyme-grass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-81 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland association is known from the Cache la
Poudre watershed of northcentral Colorado. The association occurs on
very steep (60-75 %), south-facing mountain and canyon slopes at 2286 to
2620 m (7500-8600 feet) elevation. Coarse loamy sand soils on these dry,
exposed sites are dominated by boulders, and rock are derived from
gneiss and other metamorphic rock. The association is characterized by
an open canopy of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* (20-25%
cover). Associated shrub species include *Artemisia frigida, Purshia
tridentata, Ribes cereum*, and *Rubus deliciosus*. *Leymus ambiguus* is
prominent in the bunchgrass-dominated understory. *Carex rossii, Elymus
albicans*, and *Achnatherum hymenoides* may also be present. Common
forbs include *Artemisia ludoviciana, Eriogonum umbellatum*, and
*Packera fendleri (= Senecio fendleri)*. The abundance of *Leymus
ambiguus* and the steep, rocky habitats in which it occurs distinguish
this association from others. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis /
Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland (CEGL001051) is often adjacent on more
gentle terrain or in similar habitats at lower elevation.

**Classification Comments:** *Elymus ambiguus* Vasey & Scribn. var.
*salmonis* C.L. Hitchc. is now recognized as *Leymus salinus* (M.E.
Jones) A. Lssp. *salmonis* (C.L. Hitchc.) Atkins. The association in
Idaho formerly tracked as *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis /
Elymus ambiguus* var. *salmonis* Shrubland is now tracked as *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis* Shrubland,
and needs to be reviewed and incorporated into the NVC.

These two associations are similar. This shrubland association
(CEGL001045) is differentiated from Idaho\'s *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis / Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis* Shrubland on the basis of
(1) the dominant understory grass species and (2) the range of the two
associations. *Leymus ambiguus* is the definitive perennial grass
species in *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Leymus ambiguus*
Shrubland (CEGL001045), which is found in Colorado. *Leymus salinus ssp.
salmonis* is characteristic of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis /
Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis* Shrubland, which is found in Idaho.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Leymus ambiguus* Habitat Type (Hess 1981) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Leymus ambiguus* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Leymus ambiguus* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Hesperostipa comata
    Shrubland (CEGL001051)

**Adjacent Association Comments:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland (CEGL001051) is often
adjacent on more gentle terrain or in similar habitats at lower
elevation.

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S. Rust **Version:** 30-Sep-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Sep-2004

**GReasons:** This shrubland association is known only from the Cache la
Poudre watershed of north-central Colorado. The association occurs
within a relatively narrow range of environmental conditions on very
steep (60-75%), south-facing mountain and canyon slopes at 2286 to 2620
m (7500-8600 feet). A good proportion of occurrences is suspected to be
viable. Few occurrences of this distinctive association, however, are
known from a relatively narrow rangewide distribution.

**Ranking Author:** S. Rust **Version:** 30-Sep-2004

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This shrubland association is known from the Cache la Poudre
watershed of northwestern Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:?, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331I:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hess
1981, Johnston 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001049--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Sandberg\'s Bluegrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-sandbergs-bluegrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, ID:S2, MT?, NV:S4, OR:S4, WA:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC, M261G:CC,
M331D:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983l,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001009--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Canada, Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** B. Johnston, mod. D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Northwestern Great Plains Riparian (CES303.677)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This is a widespread Wyoming Big Sagebrush shrub type,
extending from the western side of the Great Plains on the east to
British Columbia on the west, and south as far as northern Nevada.
Stands of this type occupy loamy soils (often with coarse fragments)
derived from a variety of parent materials, on middle and lower slopes
and in draws. Shrubs are dense and form a canopy with at least 25%
cover. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* contributes the most
cover to the shrub layer and is often the only shrub present. The height
of the sagebrush ranges from ca. 35 cm tall in the eastern part of the
range to ca. 1 m tall in the western part. *Chrysothamnus* spp. often
are present as well. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* contributes more cover to
the herbaceous layer than does any other native species, and *Poa
secunda* usually is present. Stands in the eastern part of the
geographic range often include *Gutierrezia sarothrae, Artemisia
frigida, Bouteloua gracilis*, and *Koeleria macrantha*. Many stands of
this community may result from grazing in stands of *Artemisia
tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535). Grazing increases the cover and
density of shrubs and often decreases the cover of grasses, especially
of *Pseudoroegneria spicata*. Stands no doubt exist, though, that do not
result from grazing. Such stands are likely found in draws and other
places on the landscape where soil moisture is sufficient to support a
dense shrub canopy, and may represent only a small area on the
landscape.

**Classification Comments:** Many stands of this association may be
derived by grazing of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis /
Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535). It
may be preferable to first combine these two types, and then split them
geographically. The occurrences from the Great Plains west as far as
northwestern Colorado, western Wyoming, and western Montana might belong
to one type characterized by the presence of *Bouteloua* spp., *Carex
filifolia, Koeleria macrantha, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Artemisia
frigida*, and *Opuntia polyacantha*, and by the absence of *Achnatherum
thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)*. The occurrences from southern
Idaho, northern Nevada, eastern Oregon, eastern Washington, and British
Columbia could belong to a different type characterized by the presence
of *Achnatherum thurberianum*, and by the absence of the other species
listed above. The separation between these two types probably would
occur in Idaho. Additional research will be required to clarify this
issue.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001019)

-   *Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001018)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Community Type
    (DeVelice et al. 1991) F

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Roegneria spicata* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) F

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Agropyron spicatum*
    Community Type (Cooper et al. 1995) F

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Agropyron spicatum*
    Habitat Type (Jensen et al. 1992) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   Sagebrush steppe (Knight et al. 1987) F

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands of this type occupy loamy soils (often with
coarse fragments) derived from a variety of parent materials, on middle
and lower slopes and in draws. The close relationship between this
association and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis /
Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535)
suggests that stands of this type occupy loamy soils (often with coarse
fragments) derived from a variety of parent materials, on middle and
lower slopes and in draws.

**Vegetation:** Throughout the geographic range of this type, *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* dominates a shrub layer that has at least
25% canopy cover. Rabbitbrushes (*Chrysothamnus* spp.) often are present
as well. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* contributes more cover to the
herbaceous layer than does any other native species, and *Poa secunda*
usually is present. Stands in the eastern part of the geographic range
often include *Gutierrezia sarothrae, Artemisia frigida, Bouteloua
gracilis*, and *Koeleria macrantha*. The height of the sagebrush ranges
from about 35 cm tall in the eastern part of the range to about 1 m tall
in the western part (Hironaka et al. 1983).

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia tridentata (ssp. tridentata, ssp. xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001018)

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** B. Johnston, mod. D. Faber-Langendoen
**Version:** 31-Jan-2000

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 1-Feb-1996

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This is a widespread Wyoming Big Sagebrush shrub type,
extending from the western side of the Great Plains on the east to
British Columbia on the west, and south as far as northern Nevada.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** BC:S2, CO:S3?, ID, MT:S5?, ND:S2S3, NV, UT:S4S5, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC,
342F:CC, 342G:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:??, M331B:CC, M332A:CC, M332B:CC,
M332C:CC, M332D:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Theodore Roosevelt); USFS (Custer, Thunder
Basin)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn 1967, Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al.
1968b, Blackburn et al. 1969a, Blackburn et al. 1969c, Blackburn et al.
1971, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Brotherson and Brotherson 1981,
Cooper et al. 1995, Daubenmire 1970, DeVelice et al. 1991, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Fisser 1964, Fisser 1970, Hall 1973, Heinze et al. 1962,
Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1992, Johnston 1987, Knight et al.
1987, Lewis 1975a, McLean 1970, Moretti 1979, Moretti and Brotherson
1982, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Poulton 1955, Seminoe I Mine
Application n.d., Thilenius et al. 1995, Tisdale 1947, Tweit and Houston
1980, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.828--*Cercocarpus ledifolius* Shrubland Alliance

### Curl-leaf Mountain-mahogany Shrubland Alliance {#curl-leaf-mountain-mahogany-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** The plant associations in this alliance occur in semi-arid,
mountainous habitats of the interior western United States. These
shrublands are often located on rocky outcrops or escarpments in
forested areas. Most stands occur on steep rimrock slopes, usually in
areas of shallow soils or protected slopes. In Wyoming, stands of this
alliance primarily grow on carbonate sediments (limestone or dolomite)
or on sandstones rich in calcium carbonate. Other rock types include
quartz, gneiss, and basalt. Soils are typically rocky and immature, and
are always rockier than found in surrounding sites. The vegetation in
this alliance is characterized by an open shrub canopy of *Cercocarpus
ledifolius*. The vegetation may occur as scattered small- and
large-patch communities in arid steppe or on rocky outcrops or steep
escarpments within forests. Other shrubs often occur in the stands and
include *Artemisia tridentata, Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia nova,
Artemisia frigida, Amelanchier alnifolia, Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Prunus virginiana, Ribes* spp., and
*Symphoricarpos* spp. The herbaceous layer is usually composed of xeric
graminoids including *Festuca idahoensis, Pseudoroegneria spicata, Poa
secunda, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Achnatherum
occidentale (= Stipa occidentalis), Elymus glaucus, Calamagrostis
rubescens, Koeleria macrantha*, and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata)*. Outcrop communities usually include many of the species above,
but may also include forest trees such as *Pseudotsuga menziesii, Pinus
ponderosa, Pinus flexilis, Pinus jeffreyi, Juniperus osteosperma,
Juniperus scopulorum*, or *Juniperus occidentalis*. Adjacent vegetation
is usually *Pinus ponderosa* or *Pseudotsuga menziesii* forests or
woodlands, pinyon and/or juniper woodlands, *Artemisia* shrublands, or
grasslands dominated by species of *Festuca, Achnatherum, Hesperostipa*,
or *Pseudoroegneria*.

**Classification Comments:** The *Cercocarpus ledifolius* woodland and
shrubland alliances are poorly distinguished in the literature, as most
authors describe the species as having either a tall-shrub or small-tree
growth form within a single association. Some associations may have
shrub-dominated stands in one area and also have a woodland physiognomy
in another. The woodland physiognomy appears to be more typical, based
on available literature. Near the northern edge of its range in Montana
and Idaho, *Cercocarpus ledifolius* is described as occurring primarily
in the shrub form (Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Tisdale 1986). These
northern variants are the only described stands which appear to be
clearly distinct from the woodland alliance. The woodland alliance may
have a different subspecies (or variety) as a dominant than the
shrubland. In Wyoming, the heritage program is proposing to recognize
two *Cercocarpus ledifolius* alliances, based upon varieties of
*Cercocarpus ledifolius*. The most widespread proposed alliance (in
Wyoming) is dominated by *Cercocarpus ledifolius var. ledifolius*, which
grows up to ca. 1.5 m tall. The other proposed alliance, dominated by
*Cercocarpus ledifolius var. intercedens*, is found only along the
western border of the state, and the growth form is small trees 4-5 m
tall. The two taxa are obviously different in Wyoming, in stature and
leaf characteristics, and are easily separated. Further review of the
two current *Cercocarpus ledifolius* alliances may warrant treatment as
proposed for Wyoming.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Cercocarpus ledifolius* Woodland Alliance (A.586)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** The plant associations in the
*Cercocarpus ledifolius* Shrubland Alliance (A.828) are distinguished
from those in the *Cercocarpus ledifolius* Woodland Alliance (A.586) by
the smaller stature of *Cercocarpus ledifolius* species. No clear
cut-off is described in the literature, so this height division is
rather arbitrary. See further comments on the classification of the
alliance.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Curlleaf Mountain-Mahogany Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The plant associations in this alliance occur in
semi-arid, mountainous habitats of the interior west. Annual
precipitation averages 25-45 cm, with a significant proportion falling
as winter snow. These shrublands are often located on rocky outcrops or
escarpments in forested areas. Most stands occur on steep rimrock
slopes, usually in areas of shallow soils or protected slopes. In
Wyoming, stands of this alliance primarily grow on carbonate sediments
(limestone or dolomite) or on sandstones rich in calcium carbonate.
Other rock types include quartz, gneiss, and basalt. Soils are typically
rocky and immature, and are always rockier than found in surrounding
sites. Adjacent vegetation is usually *Pinus ponderosa* or *Pseudotsuga
menziesii* forests or woodlands, pinyon and/or juniper woodlands,
*Artemisia* shrublands, or grasslands dominated by species of *Festuca,
Achnatherum, Hesperostipa*, or *Pseudoroegneria*.

**Vegetation:** The vegetation in this alliance is characterized by an
open shrub canopy of *Cercocarpus ledifolius*. The vegetation may occur
as scattered small and large patch communities in arid steppe or on
rocky outcrops or steep escarpments within forests. Evergreen or
cold-deciduous shrubs often occur in the stands and include *Artemisia
tridentata, Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia nova, Artemisia frigida,
Amelanchier alnifolia, Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus),
Prunus virginiana, Ribes* spp., and *Symphoricarpos* spp. The herbaceous
layer is usually composed of xeric graminoids including *Festuca
idahoensis, Pseudoroegneria spicata, Poa secunda, Achnatherum hymenoides
(= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Achnatherum occidentale (= Stipa
occidentalis), Elymus glaucus, Calamagrostis rubescens, Koeleria
macrantha*, and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*. Outcrop
communities usually include many of the species above, but may also
include forest trees such as *Pseudotsuga menziesii, Pinus ponderosa,
Pinus flexilis, Pinus jeffreyi, Juniperus osteosperma, Juniperus
scopulorum*, or *Juniperus occidentalis*.

**Dynamics:** *Cercocarpus ledifolius* is a slow-growing,
drought-tolerant species which can inhabit very poor sites, such as
cliffs, stony slopes, and outcrops. Stands are often small and clumped
near ridgetops. These sites may also afford the species some protection
from fire. The species is highly susceptible to fire damage and
generally does not resprout. *Cercocarpus ledifolius* is highly favored
by native ungulates for winter range and many individual shrubs show
evidence of highlining by deer and elk.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance occurs throughout the Great Basin and into the
Mojave Desert, from eastern California to Colorado and north to western
Montana. It has not been documented from Utah or New Mexico, but
probably occurs in both states.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 17:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 322A:C, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 332:C, 341E:CC, 342A:CC,
342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CP, 342H:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC,
M261G:CC, M331A:CC, M331B:CC, M331D:CC, M331J:CC, M332A:CC, M332B:C?,
M332D:C?, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Bighorn)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Cooper et al. 1995,
Dealy 1975, Heinze et al. 1962, Johnson and Simon 1985, Knight et al.
1987, Lewis 1975a, Miller 1964, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Sawyer and
Keeler-Wolf 1995, Schlatterer 1972, Tisdale 1986

#### CEGL001487--*Artemisia arbuscula - Cercocarpus ledifolius / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrubland

#### Dwarf Sagebrush - Curl-leaf Mountain-mahogany / Bluebunch Wheatgrass - Curly Bluegrass Shrubland {#dwarf-sagebrush---curl-leaf-mountain-mahogany-bluebunch-wheatgrass---curly-bluegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-82 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Mountain Mahogany Woodland and Shrubland
    (CES304.772)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula-Cercocarpus ledifolius/Pseudoroegneria
    spicata-Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.1.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4Q **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, OR:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dealy 1975, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.825--*Purshia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance

### Bitterbrush Shrubland Alliance {#bitterbrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance occurs throughout the Intermountain West at
elevations from 500-3000 m. These shrublands occur over a broad range of
landforms and microhabitats including stabilized dunes in Idaho and
steep exposed mountain slopes with southerly aspects on the eastern side
of the Front Range. These sites are typically too xeric to support
extensions of the surrounding coniferous forests. These soils are poorly
developed and rocky, with loamy and sandy textures. Shrublands included
in this alliance are characterized by a *Purshia tridentata*-dominated
shrub canopy, often with *Artemisia tridentata*. Other important shrubs
include *Artemisia frigida, Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus
nauseosus), Prunus virginiana, Ribes cereum*, and *Arctostaphylos
uva-ursi*. Scattered trees may form an emergent layer where *Purshia
tridentata* shrublands grade into adjacent woodlands or forests. Typical
tree associates include *Pinus ponderosa, Pinus washoensis, Pinus
jeffreyi, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus osteosperma, Juniperus
scopulorum, Yucca brevifolia, Quercus garryana, Populus tremuloides*,
and *Cercocarpus ledifolius*. The herbaceous layer is usually dominated
by perennial bunch grasses, including *Muhlenbergia montana, Elymus
lanceolatus, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Poa secunda (= Poa
sandbergii), Koeleria macrantha*, and *Achnatherum hymenoides (=
Oryzopsis hymenoides)*. Some stands may have a well-developed forb
component composed of *Achillea millefolium, Balsamorhiza sagittata,
Brodiaea* spp., and *Erigeron corymbosus*. Mosses and lichens are
important in some stands. Diagnostic of this alliance is the dominance
of *Purshia tridentata* in a shrub layer that is greater than 25% on
average.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Purshia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1523)

-   *Purshia tridentata* Shrub Tall Herbaceous Alliance (A.1517)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Vegetation in the *Purshia tridentata*
Shrubland Alliance (A.825) is distinguished from the two similar
alliances by the presence of a moderate to dense (\>20% cover) canopy of
*Purshia tridentata*. The similar alliances contain communities with
less than 20% cover of *Purshia tridentata*, and visually dominant
herbaceous layers of perennial bunch grasses.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Bitterbrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Plant associations in this alliance occur throughout
the Intermountain West at elevations from 500 to 3000 m. Most of the
region is arid to semi-arid with annual precipitation ranging from 15 to
75 cm. The entire range is under a continental temperature regime of
cold winters, cool to warm summers and large diurnal variation. In the
western portions, summers are dry. Growing-season precipitation
increases eastward and is the greatest in the Rocky Mountains. These
shrublands occur over a broad range of landforms and microhabitats. In
Idaho, the alliance occurs on stabilized dunes, which despite very low
moisture levels during the dry season, the tension at which moisture is
held by the sand is very low, meaning that some moisture is apparently
always available to plants (Chadwick and Dalke 1965). In Colorado, the
alliance is found on exposed, steep (45-60% slope) mountain slopes with
southerly aspects on the eastern slopes of the Front Range (Hess 1981).
These sites are typically too xeric to support extensions of the
surrounding coniferous forests. Parent materials are colluvial and
residual metamorphic rocks which have developed into soils classified as
Entisols. These soils are poorly developed and rocky, with loamy and
sandy textures, and shallow A horizons over rocky C horizons. The soil
surface is also moderately rocky.

**Vegetation:** Plant associations in this alliance are characterized by
a shrub canopy of *Purshia tridentata*, often with *Artemisia
tridentata*. Other important shrubs include *Artemisia frigida,
Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Prunus virginiana,
Ribes cereum*, and *Arctostaphylos uva-ursi*. Scattered trees may form
an emergent layer where *Purshia tridentata* shrublands grade into
adjacent woodlands or forests. Typical tree associates include *Pinus
ponderosa, Pinus washoensis, Pinus jeffreyi, Juniperus occidentalis,
Juniperus osteosperma, Juniperus scopulorum, Yucca brevifolia, Quercus
garryana, Populus tremuloides*, and *Cercocarpus ledifolius*. The
herbaceous layer is usually dominated by perennial bunch grasses,
including *Muhlenbergia montana, Elymus lanceolatus, Hesperostipa comata
(= Stipa comata), Poa secunda (= Poa sandbergii), Koeleria macrantha*,
and *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*. Stands in the
western Columbia Basin may have a well-developed forb component in the
herbaceous layer. Common species in such stands include *Achillea
millefolium, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Brodiaea* spp., and *Erigeron
corymbosus*. Good condition stands may have a ground surface covered
with mosses and lichens.

**Dynamics:** Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995) report that stands of
*Purshia tridentata* can reach 125 years of age on deep, well-drained
sites, but more commonly become decadent at 30 years, and die at 40-50
years of age. Stands appear to result from either a disturbance event
(such as fire), or from rare years when many seedlings survive. This
results in even-aged stands (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995). *Purshia
tridentata* displays considerable plasticity in growth across its range.
The broad range in height and form of different populations appears to
be related to ecotypic variation (Mozingo 1987). Although mycorrhizae
are considered important in establishment and growth of individual
plants, *Purshia tridentata* is one of the first species to colonize
barren volcanic substrates following eruption. The species is valuable
as winter browse for native ungulates and livestock and is used
extensively. Moderate livestock utilization (\<60% of the year\'s
current growth) has been reported to stimulate twig growth the following
spring (Mueggler and Stewart 1980).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found in many western U.S. states, from
California north and east into Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Colorado.
The core of its range is the Columbia Basin and Plateau, Owyhee Uplands,
Snake River Plains, and the Colorado Rockies. *Purshia tridentata* is
one of the most widespread shrubs in the western United States. Stands
cover millions of acres from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific ranges
and south to the high-elevation ranges of the Mojave Desert. The
alliance may have a wider distribution than currently documented.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, CO, ID, OR, WA, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C, 12:C, 17:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 322A:CC, 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342I:CC,
M261E:CC, M331I:CC, M341:C

**Federal Lands:** DOD (Boardman Bombing Range); NPS (Rocky Mountain,
Yosemite); USFS (Roosevelt); USFWS (Hanford Reach)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Buttery 1955, Caicco and Wellner 1983e, Chadwick and
Dalke 1965, Chappell et al. 1997, Copeland unpubl. data 1978, Daubenmire
1970, Daubenmire 1975, Franklin and Dyrness 1973, Hess 1981, Hess and
Wasser 1982, Johnston 1987, Marr et al. 1980, Moseley 1987c, Mozingo
1987, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Poulton 1955, Reid et al. 1994,
Roughton 1966, Roughton 1972, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, WANHP unpubl.
data, Wasser and Hess 1982

#### CEGL003480--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata - Symphoricarpos rotundifolius* Shrubland

#### Bitterbrush - Basin Big Sagebrush - Roundleaf Snowberry Shrubland {#bitterbrush---basin-big-sagebrush---roundleaf-snowberry-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-83 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** The subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* in
this association is likely to be *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003481--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata - Tetradymia canescens* Shrubland

#### Bitterbrush - Basin Big Sagebrush - Gray Horsebrush Shrubland {#bitterbrush---basin-big-sagebrush---gray-horsebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-84 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** The subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* in
this association is likely to be *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003478--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland \[Provisional\]

#### Bitterbrush - Basin Big Sagebrush / Indian Ricegrass Shrubland {#bitterbrush---basin-big-sagebrush-indian-ricegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-85 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** *Purshia tridentata / Achnatherum
hymenoides Shrubland (CEGL001058)* in the USNVC is very similar to this
association, though the environmental descriptors vary. Review is needed
to determine if they are the same type. The subspecies of *Artemisia
tridentata* in this association is likely to be *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana*.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Purshia tridentata / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland (CEGL001058)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003479--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata / Achnatherum nelsonii* Shrubland

#### Bitterbrush - Basin Big Sagebrush / Nelson\'s Needlegrass Shrubland {#bitterbrush---basin-big-sagebrush-nelsons-needlegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-86 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** The subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* in
this association is likely to be *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003477--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata / Eriogonum umbellatum* Shrubland

#### Bitterbrush - Basin Big Sagebrush / Sulphurflower Wild Buckwheat Shrubland {#bitterbrush---basin-big-sagebrush-sulphurflower-wild-buckwheat-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-87 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 1-Apr-2003

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** The subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* in
this association is likely to be *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 1-Apr-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001054--*Purshia tridentata - Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata* Shrubland

#### Bitterbrush - Basin Big Sagebrush Shrubland {#bitterbrush---basin-big-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Antelope Bitterbrush - Big Sagebrush Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#antelope-bitterbrush---big-sagebrush-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Active and Stabilized Dune (CES304.775)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association is described from data collected in
St. Anthony Dunes area, Fremont County, Idaho, within the Snake River
Basalts ecoregional section. The plant association occurs in areas of
stabilized sands, in a region of actively moving dunes. It is found
extending windward at approximately 365 m from the actively moving dune
edge. At these sites stable sand deposits are 150 years old or greater.
Soils are deep, fine- to medium-grained sand. Despite very low moisture
levels during the dry season, soil moisture available to plants is
apparently adequate, perhaps due to the low soil moisture tension of
sand. The plant association is composed of a dense shrub layer,
generally less than 2 m in height, although individuals of all shrub
species were occasionally taller. *Purshia tridentata* and *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata* provide the most cover, but large clumps
(\>10 m in diameter) of *Prunus virginiana* occur patchily in some
examples of the association. The understory herbaceous layer is diverse,
but is strongly dominated by the perennial forb *Balsamorhiza sagittata*
and the bunchgrass *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Purshia tridentata / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland (CEGL001058)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Purshia tridentata-Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs in areas of stabilized sands,
in a region of actively moving dune deposits, from 5000 to 5900 feet
elevation. It is found extending from roughly 100 m to over 2 km to
windward from the active dunes. Sand deposits where it occurs have
generally been stable for at least 70 years. Soils are deep sands, from
roughly 0.5 m to over 3 m deep, left behind as the dunes advance.
Despite very low moisture levels during the dry season, the tension at
which moisture is held by the sand is very low, meaning that some
moisture is apparently always available to plants (Chadwick and Dalke
1965).

**Vegetation:** This plant association is composed of a dense shrub
layer, generally less than 2 m in height, although individuals of all
shrub species were occasionally taller. *Purshia tridentata* and
*Artemisia tridentata* provide the most cover, but large clumps (\>10 m
in diameter) of *Prunus virginiana* occur patchily in some examples of
the association. The understory herbaceous layer is diverse, but is
strongly dominated by the perennial forb *Balsamorhiza sagittata* and
the bunchgrass *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** This is the fourth seral stage of five vegetation
types found on these dunes. The types are found in bands transverse to
the direction of dune movement. The width of the vegetation bands is
quite consistent throughout the sandhills area, and each band advances
across the landscape at about the same rate as the dune advancement.
This association has an approximate duration on a given deposit of up to
several hundred years.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust **Version:**
5-May-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1 **GRank Review Date:** 10-Nov-1997

**GReasons:** This narrowly endemic plant association is known from few
sites within the upper Snake River Plain, Idaho. The association occurs
on stabilized, late-seral (150 year old and greater), wind-blown sand
deposits. The distribution and quality of these habitats is jeopardized
by off-road vehicle use, livestock grazing, exotic species
introductions, alteration of fire disturbance regimes, and the combined
cumulative effects of these factors. Appropriate inventory work has not
been conducted recently to determined the current number, condition, or
trend of stands. One stand of the association is reported for St.
Anthony Sand Dunes Research Natural Area, on Medicine Lodge Resource
Area. These stands were last visited in 1981.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 10-Nov-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The plant association is known only from sand dune
environments of the upper Snake River Plain. Sites are located in
Fremont County, Idaho; within the Snake River Basalts ecoregional
section.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC, 342D:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Roosevelt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Chadwick and Dalke 1965,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001055--*Purshia tridentata / Artemisia frigida / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland

#### Bitterbrush / Fringed Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrubland {#bitterbrush-fringed-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Antelope Bitterbrush - Fringed Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread* Classif. Resp.: West {#antelope-bitterbrush---fringed-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Rocky Mountain Lower Montane-Foothill Shrubland (CES306.822)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** Has been described from north-central Colorado, along the
eastern slopes of the northern Front Range, on the Roosevelt National
Forest. Best developed examples are in the Cache La Poudre River
drainage in the northern Roosevelt National Forest, in a narrowly
restricted latitudinal range. The broad-leaved, semi-evergreen shrub,
*Purshia tridentata*, averages 30% cover in this shrubland association,
with heights of 1-2 m. Other shrubs are poorly represented, but the low
*Artemisia frigida* is present in all stands, averaging 4% cover. The
herbaceous layer is relatively sparse and dominated by the 0.5 m tall
perennial bunchgrass *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, with 15%
cover. Other important species present in small amounts include the
perennial grasses *Bouteloua gracilis* and *Elymus albicans (= Elymus
lanceolatus ssp. albicans)*, and the perennial forbs *Heterotheca
villosa, Eriogonum umbellatum, Helianthus pumilus*, and *Scutellaria
brittonii*. Sites where this association is found are steep to very
steep (30-55%) mountain slopes with southerly aspects on the eastern
slopes of the Front Range, from 5800-7700 feet elevation. These sites
are typically too xeric to support coniferous forest. Parent materials
are colluvium of schist and gneiss origins which have developed into
soils classified as Entisols. These soils are poorly developed,
coarse-textured and rocky, with loamy and sandy textures. There is
typically a shallow A horizons over a cambic B horizon over rocky C
horizons. The soil surface is also moderately rocky.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Purshia tridentata / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001498)---described for the Palouse grasslands of
    the Pacific Northwest by Daubenmire (1970).

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Purshia tridentata/Artemisia frigida/Stipa comata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   UNESCO FORMATION CODE: III.A.2b (UNESCO 1973) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs in a mountainous region subject
to a continental climate regime, with warm summers and cold winters.
Precipitation patterns differ between the east and west sides of the
Continental Divide, but the overall difference is warmer and drier
winters on the east slope of the Front Range.

Sites where this association is found are steep to very steep (30% to
55%) mountain slopes with southerly aspects on the eastern slopes of the
Front Range, from 5800 to 7700 feet elevation. These sites are typically
too xeric to support coniferous forest. Parent materials are colluvium
of schist and gneiss origins which have developed into soils classified
as Entisols. These soils are poorly developed, coarse-textured and
rocky, with loamy and sandy textures. There is typically a shallow A
horizon over a cambic B horizon over rocky C horizons. The soil surface
is also moderately rocky.

**Vegetation:** The broad-leaved semi-evergreen shrub *Purshia
tridentata* averages 30% cover in this shrubland association, with
heights of 1-2 m. Other shrubs are poorly represented, but the low
*Artemisia frigida* is present in all stands, averaging 4% cover. The
herbaceous layer is relatively sparse and dominated by the 0.5-m tall
perennial bunchgrass *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, with 15%
cover. Other important species present in small amounts include the
perennial grasses *Bouteloua gracilis* and *Elymus albicans (= Elymus
lanceolatus ssp. albicans)*, and the perennial forbs *Heterotheca
villosa, Eriogonum umbellatum, Helianthus pumilus*, and *Scutellaria
brittonii*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** Grazing of livestock is likely to reduce shrub cover
and that of herbaceous species as well.

This association is similar to *Purshia tridentata / Hesperostipa
comata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001498) described for the
Palouse grasslands of the Pacific Northwest by Daubenmire (1970).
However, the Pacific Northwest type occurs on old, stabilized sand dunes
and has a different floristic component from the Colorado association.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 23-Nov-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1G2 **GRank Review Date:** 7-Nov-1997

**GReasons:** This association is a regional endemic known only from the
northern Front Range of Colorado. It appears to have a relatively high
level of environmental specificity, occurring on poor, dry soils on
steep slopes. Only three occurrences of this association have been
documented, and no pristine occurrences have been found. However, not
all of the association\'s potential habitat has been thoroughly
surveyed, especially lower montane U.S. Forest Service lands. The total
known area covered by this association is small, although this may be an
artifact of insufficient sampling. This association is threatened by
exotic plant species, changes in structure and composition due to fire
suppression and livestock grazing, and possibly ore extraction.

**Ranking Author:** D. Clark **Version:** 1-Nov-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Documented sites occur along the Front Range of Colorado in
Larimer County.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S1S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331I:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Roosevelt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, CONHP unpubl. data,
Daubenmire 1970, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hess 1981, Hess and Wasser 1982,
Johnston 1987, UNESCO 1973, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

## III.A.4.N.c. Temporarily flooded microphyllous shrubland

### A.843--*Artemisia cana* Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance

### Silver Sagebrush Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance {#silver-sagebrush-temporarily-flooded-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, Midwest, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

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 lanata, 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 *Nassella
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*.

**Classification Comments:** The relationship of this alliance to others
dominated by *Artemisia cana* is unclear. The hydrological divisions in
the *Artemisia cana* group are poorly distinguished, particularly in the
literature. In montane and subalpine meadows and along riparian
stringers of western mountain ranges, *Artemisia cana* communities are
often the driest of the recognizable riparian habitats. This
transitional position and the broad floodplains where the these
shrublands typically occur blur wetland/upland distinctions. Most of
these riparian stands have been placed in the temporarily flooded
alliance. Although these sites generally have seasonally saturated soils
and shallow water tables, the frequency of flooding is probably highly
variable.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1531)

-   *Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrubland
    Alliance (A.2557)

-   *Artemisia cana* Shrubland Alliance (A.827)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Vegetation in this alliance is
distinguished from shrub-herbaceous alliances above by the generally
greater cover of shrubs (\>25%). The hydrological divisions in the
*Artemisia cana* group, however, are poorly distinguished. Communities
in the intermittently flooded alliance in this classification occur on
unpredictably flooded habitats associated with desert playas.

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**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, Nassella 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.

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

**Subnations:** MT, ND, NE, SD

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 25:C, 26:C, 35:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 251Aa:CCC, 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342B:CC,
342C:CC, M331A:CC, M332B:C?, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332G:CC, M334A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Badlands, Theodore Roosevelt)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**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, ORNHP unpubl. data, Sarr 1995, USFS 1992

#### CEGL001072--*Artemisia cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland

#### Silver Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrubland {#silver-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Silver Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#silver-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J. Drake

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Northwestern Great Plains Riparian (CES303.677)

-   Western Great Plains Riparian Woodland and Shrubland (CES303.956)

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
*Symphoricarpos occidentalis*. Also present are shorter shrubs such as
*Artemisia frigida, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Rosa woodsii*, and
*Gutierrezia sarothrae*. The most abundant graminoid is *Pascopyrum
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, Sphaeralcea coccinea*, and *Lactuca tatarica var. pulchella*.

**Classification Comments:** See Steinauer and Rolfsmeier (2000) for a
description of the stands in Nebraska.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001556)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana - Symphoricarpos occidentalis / Elytrigia smithii*
    Plant Association (Johnston 1987) =

-   *Artemisia cana / Agropyron smithii* Habitat Type (Hansen et
    al. 1984) =

-   *Artemisia cana / Agropyron smithii* Habitat Type (USFS 1992) =

-   *Artemisia cana / Elytrigia smithii* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) B *Artemisia cana/Pascopyrum smithii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia cana* Habitat Type (Hirsch 1985) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.B.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   Sagebrush Type (Hanson and Whitman 1938) =

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This community occurs on flat alluvial deposits on
floodplains, terraces or benches, or alluvial fans. The soils are
moderately deep to deep (USFS 1992) and either silt loam, clay loam, or
sandy loam (Johnston 1987, 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
1985).

**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. *Symphoricarpos
occidentalis* is frequently present. There are also shorter shrubs such
as *Artemisia frigida, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Rosa woodsii*, and
*Gutierrezia sarothrae*. The most abundant graminoid is *Pascopyrum
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, Sphaeralcea coccinea*, and *Lactuca tatarica var. pulchella*.

**Dynamics:** Periodic flooding occurs in many stands of this community.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J. Drake **Version:** 19-Dec-1995

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 1-Feb-1996

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

**Subnations:** MT:S4, ND:S2S3, NE, SD:SU

**TNC Ecoregions:** 25:C, 26:C, 35:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 251Aa:CCC, 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, M331A:CC,
M332B:C?, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M334A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Badlands, Theodore Roosevelt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
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, USFS 1992, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

## III.A.5.N.a. Broad-leaved and microphyllous evergreen extremely xeromorphic subdesert shrubland

### A.1103--*Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance

### Bigelow Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#bigelow-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Stands included in this dwarf-shrubland alliance are found
on the Colorado Plateau and in southeastern Colorado. Sites include
gentle to moderately steep shale hillslopes and mesas in Arizona and
breaks and shale plains in the shortgrass steppe west to the foothills
near the Colorado Front Range. Soils are typically shallow,
well-drained, calcareous loams, clay loams, and clays derived from
limestone, sandstone, shale and alluvium. The soil surface has high
cover of bare soil and rock. The vegetation is characterized by a sparse
to moderately dense dwarf-shrub layer that is dominated or codominated
by *Artemisia bigelovii*. Dwarf-shrub associates from the shortgrass
steppe include *Yucca glauca, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Frankenia
jamesii*, and *Glossopetalon spinescens var. meionandrum*, which may be
present to codominant. On the Colorado Plateau, stands may be
codominated by *Ephedra* spp., *Eriogonum corymbosum, Parryella
filifolia*, or *Purshia stansburiana*. *Gutierrezia sarothrae* and
species of *Atriplex* and *Yucca* are common in most stands. Scattered
*Juniperus* spp. trees are occasionally present. A sparse to moderate
graminoid layer is usually present. Dominant grasses include *Aristida
purpurea, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Bouteloua
gracilis, Hesperostipa neomexicana (= Stipa neomexicana), Pleuraphis
jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Sporobolus cryptandrus*, or less commonly
*Pascopyrum smithii*. On the Colorado Plateau forbs are generally
sparse. However, cushion plants are common on shortgrass steppe slopes.
Other forbs, such as *Astragalus missouriensis, Heterotheca villosa,
Melampodium cinereum, Picradeniopsis oppositifolia, Stanleya pinnata*,
and *Zinnia grandiflora*, are usually present. Exotic annuals, such as
*Bromus japonicus, Bromus tectorum, Salsola kali*, and *Descurainia
sophia*, may be present to common depending on disturbance, and amount
and season of precipitation. Diagnostic of this alliance is the
*Artemisia bigelovii*-dominated or codominated dwarf-shrub layer.

**Classification Comments:** The vegetation in some stands included in
this alliance may be too sparse to be classified in a dwarf-shrubland.
An alliance review is needed to determine if *Artemisia bigelovii /
Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001742) and
*Artemisia bigelovii / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland (CEGL000990)
could be included in the same alliance. Known occurrences from Arizona
are limited to 12 plots from Petrified Forest National Park.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Bouteloua eriopoda* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1570)

-   *Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1571)

-   *Muhlenbergia setifolia / Artemisia bigelovii* Shrub Herbaceous
    Alliance (A.1530)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Within the *Bouteloua gracilis*
Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1571) there is *Artemisia bigelovii /
Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001742).
Stands in this association have a sparse dwarf-shrub layer of *Artemisia
bigelovii* and have been described by Muldavin and Mehlhop (1992) from
White Sands Missile Range in south-central New Mexico. Floristically,
these stands are similar to stands in the *Artemisia bigelovii*
Shrubland Alliance (A.1103), but these stands are dominated by
graminoids not dwarf-shrubs.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii/Bouteloua gracilis* Plant Community (Shaw et
    al. 1989) I

-   *Artemisia bigelovii/Ceratoides lanata* Plant Community (Shaw et
    al. 1989) I

-   *Glossopetalon meionandra/Frankenia jamesii* Plant Community (Shaw
    et al. 1989) I

-   Limestone Breaks SCS Range Site #58 (Soil Conservation Service n.d.)
    I

-   SRM Cover Type #408 - Other Sagebrush Types (Shiflet 1994) B

-   Sandstone Breaks SCS Range Site #53 (Soil Conservation Service n.d.)
    I

-   Shaley Plains SCS Range Site (Soil Conservation Service n.d.) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands included in this dwarf-shrubland alliance are
found on the Colorado Plateau and in southeastern Colorado. Elevation
ranges from 1350-1800 m. Climate is semi-arid with 22-35 cm of mean
annual precipitation occurring during the growing season. Sites are
nearly flat to moderate and include shale hillslopes and mesas in
Arizona and breaks and shale plains in the shortgrass steppe west to the
foothills near the Colorado Front Range. Soils are typically shallow,
well-drained, calcareous loams, clay loams, and clays derived from
limestone, sandstone, shale and alluvium. The soil surface has high
cover of bare soil and rock.

**Vegetation:** Stands included in this dwarf-shrubland alliance are
found on the Colorado Plateau and in southeastern Colorado. The
vegetation is characterized by a sparse to moderately dense dwarf-shrub
layer that is dominated or codominated by *Artemisia bigelovii*.
Dwarf-shrub associates for the shortgrass steppe include *Yucca glauca,
Krascheninnikovia lanata, Frankenia jamesii*, and *Glossopetalon
spinescens var. meionandrum*, which may be present to codominant.
Scattered shrubs such as *Atriplex canescens, Cercocarpus montanus,
Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Lycium pallidum*, and
*Rhus trilobata* are occasionally present. On the Colorado Plateau,
stands may be codominated by *Ephedra* spp., *Eriogonum corymbosum,
Parryella filifolia*, or *Purshia stansburiana*. *Gutierrezia sarothrae*
and species of *Atriplex* and *Yucca* are common in most stands.
Scattered *Juniperus* spp. trees are occasionally present. A sparse to
moderately dense graminoid layer is usually present. Dominant grasses
include *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Hesperostipa
neomexicana (= Stipa neomexicana), Bouteloua gracilis, Pleuraphis
jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Sporobolus cryptandrus, Aristida purpurea*,
or less commonly *Pascopyrum smithii*. On the Colorado Plateau forbs are
generally sparse. However, on shortgrass steppe slopes, cushion plants
like *Arenaria hookeri, Eriogonum lachnogynum, Tetraneuris acaulis (=
Hymenoxys acaulis)*, and *Paronychia sessiliflora* are common. Other
forbs, such as *Astragalus missouriensis, Heterotheca villosa,
Melampodium cinereum, Picradeniopsis oppositifolia, Stanleya pinnata*,
and *Zinnia grandiflora*, are usually present. Exotic annuals, such as
*Bromus japonicus, Bromus tectorum, Salsola kali*, and *Descurainia
sophia*, may be present to common depending on disturbance, and amount
and season of precipitation. Diagnostic of this alliance is the
*Artemisia bigelovii*-dominated or codominated dwarf-shrub layer.

**Dynamics:** Livestock grazing must be managed carefully to prevent the
loss of highly palatable mid grasses such as *Schizachyrium scoparium,
Bouteloua curtipendula, Hesperostipa neomexicana*, and *Achnatherum
hymenoides*. The effects of fire on this vegetation are unknown.
However, the vegetation is usually too sparse to carry a fire under most
circumstances.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Stands included in this dwarf-shrubland alliance are found in
Arizona and Utah on the Colorado Plateau and in southeastern Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ, CO, UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C, 27:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 313B:CC, 313D:CC, 331I:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Hovenweep, Petrified Forest, Walnut Canyon)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** CONHP 1983, Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Shaw et al. 1989,
Shiflet 1994, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Soil Conservation Service
n.d., Thomas et al. 2003b

#### CEGL000990--*Artemisia bigelovii / Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland

#### Bigelow Sagebrush / Indian Ricegrass Shrubland {#bigelow-sagebrush-indian-ricegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Flat Sagebrush / Indian Ricegrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#flat-sagebrush-indian-ricegrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Shale Badland (CES304.789)

-   Southwestern Great Plains Canyon (CES303.664)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** Stands included in this dwarf-shrubland association are
found in southeastern Colorado on breaks and shale plains in the
shortgrass steppe west to the foothills near the Front Range. Soils are
typically shallow, well-drained, calcareous loams and clay loams,
derived from limestone, sandstone, shale and alluvium. The soil surface
has high cover of bare soil and rock. This vegetation contains a sparse
dwarf-shrub layer that is dominated by *Artemisia bigelovii*. Other
dwarf-shrubs, such as *Yucca glauca, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Frankenia
jamesii*, and *Glossopetalon spinescens var. meionandrum*, may be
present to codominant. Scattered shrubs and the trees are occasionally
present. Dominant grasses include *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Hesperostipa neomexicana (= Stipa neomexicana), Bouteloua
gracilis, Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Sporobolus
cryptandrus, Aristida purpurea*, and less commonly *Pascopyrum smithii*.
On slopes, cushion plants like *Arenaria hookeri, Eriogonum lachnogynum,
Tetraneuris acaulis (= Hymenoxys acaulis)*, and *Paronychia
sessiliflora* are common. Other forbs, such as *Astragalus
missouriensis, Heterotheca villosa, Melampodium cinereum, Picradeniopsis
oppositifolia, Stanleya pinnata*, and *Zinnia grandiflora*, are usually
present. Exotic annuals, such as *Bromus japonicus, Bromus tectorum,
Salsola kali*, and *Descurainia sophia*, may be present to common
depending on disturbance and amount and season of precipitation.
Diagnostic of this association is the *Artemisia bigelovii*-dominated
dwarf-shrub layer with *Achnatherum hymenoides* typically present in the
herbaceous layer.

**Classification Comments:** The vegetation in some stands included in
this association may be too sparse to be classified in a
dwarf-shrubland. A review is needed to determine if *Artemisia bigelovii
/ Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001742) and
this association (CEGL000990) could be merged.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii/Oryzopsis hymenoides* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands included in this association are found on
limestone and sandstone breaks and shale plains in the shortgrass steppe
to the foothills near the Front Range in southeastern Colorado.
Elevation range is from 1350-1800 m. Climate is semi-arid, continental
with 70-80% of the 25-35 cm of mean annual precipitation occurring
during the growing season (April to September). Sites are nearly level
to moderately steep (2-45%) with very high bare soil and rock ground
cover (\>80%). Soils are typically shallow, well-drained, calcareous,
channery loams and clay loams, derived from limestone, shale and,
uncommonly, sandstone and alluvium. It is commonly found on soil mapped
as Penrose channery loam, Penrose - Minnequa complex and Midway clay
loam which are derived from the Niobrara and Greenhorn formations. It
has also been found on the Louver Alluvium, a Bull Lake Glaciation
outwash deposit. Adjacent vegetation includes *Bouteloua
gracilis*-dominated grasslands and *Pinus edulis - Juniperus monosperma*
woodlands.

**Vegetation:** This association contains a sparse dwarf-shrub layer
usually less than 20% of the total canopy cover. The dominant
dwarf-shrub is *Artemisia bigelovii*. *Yucca glauca, Krascheninnikovia
lanata, Frankenia jamesii*, and *Glossopetalon spinescens var.
meionandrum* may be present to codominant. *Glossopetalon spinescens
var. meionandrum* is more common on steeper shale breaks slopes.
*Gutierrezia sarothrae* may become codominant on degraded ranges.
Dominant grasses include *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Hesperostipa neomexicana (= Stipa neomexicana), Bouteloua
gracilis, Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Sporobolus
cryptandrus, Aristida purpurea*, and less commonly *Pascopyrum smithii,
Bouteloua curtipendula, Muhlenbergia torreyi*, and *Schizachyrium
scoparium*. On slopes, cushion plants like *Arenaria hookeri, Eriogonum
lachnogynum, Tetraneuris acaulis (= Hymenoxys acaulis)*, and *Paronychia
sessiliflora* are common. Other forbs such as *Astragalus missouriensis,
Heterotheca villosa, Melampodium cinereum, Picradeniopsis oppositifolia,
Stanleya pinnata*, and *Zinnia grandiflora* are present. Alien annuals
such as *Bromus japonicus, Bromus tectorum, Salsola kali*, and
*Descurainia sophia* may be present to common depending on disturbance,
and amount and season of precipitation. Scattered shrubs such as
*Atriplex canescens, Cercocarpus montanus, Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Lycium pallidum*, and *Rhus trilobata*, and
the trees *Pinus edulis* and *Juniperus monosperma* are occasionally
present.

**High-ranked species:** Glossopetalon spinescens var. meionandrum
(G5T3)

**Dynamics:** Livestock grazing must be managed carefully to prevent the
loss of highly palatable mid grasses such as *Schizachyrium scoparium,
Bouteloua curtipendula, Hesperostipa neomexicana*, and *Achnatherum
hymenoides*. The effects of fire on this vegetation are unknown.
However, the vegetation is usually too sparse to carry a fire under most
circumstances.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3Q **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 23-Feb-1994

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Stands included in this alliance occur on shale and limestone
breaks in the short grass steppe and the limestone hills near the Front
Range within the Arkansas River basin in southeastern Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 27:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331I:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, CONHP 1983, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Shaw et al. 1989, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Soil
Conservation Service n.d., Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL000276--*Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland \[Placeholder\]

#### Bigelow Sagebrush Shrubland {#bigelow-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-88 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.: Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Nonstandard **Origin:** 7-Jan-2003

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 7-Jan-2003

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ, UT

**TNC Ecoregions:** 18:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 313B:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Hovenweep, Petrified Forest)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Thomas et al. 2003b, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1106--*Artemisia pygmaea* Shrubland Alliance

### Pygmy Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#pygmy-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** These communities occur in relatively dry areas of the
sagebrush desert of Nevada (and probably Utah), from 1200-1800 m in
elevation. Precipitation averages 15-20 cm annually, with a significant
proportion arriving as snow. Growing-season drought is characteristic.
Soils are usually shallow and often unique, including Green River Shale,
heavy clays, or calcareous outcrops or gravels. These communities often
harbor regionally rare plant species. This alliance is characterized by
a sparse dwarf-shrub layer of *Artemisia pygmaea*, with other shrubs
scattered through the stands. Only one association is presently
described for this alliance, from central Nevada. In addition to
*Artemisia pygmaea*, that association included *Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Atriplex confertifolia, Ephedra nevadensis*, and
*Artemisia nova* in the shrub layer. According to the authors, none of
these associated shrubs are constant or characteristic of these
communities. A sparse graminoid layer was usually present, including
*Elymus elymoides* and *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides)*. Forbs include *Sphaeralcea coccinea, Eriogonum
caespitosum*, and *Astragalus* spp. Adjacent vegetation types are most
often dominated by *Artemisia nova*, which often forms the vegetation
matrix surrounding these unique communities. Other contiguous vegetation
types include *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus* or *Atriplex confertifolia*
shrublands.

**Classification Comments:** Although these communities are classified
as dwarf-shrublands, examination of stand data for the one association
linked to this alliance indicates this vegetation may be better
classified as sparsely vegetated. Total shrub cover is less than 15% and
total vegetation cover is less than 25% for all species. Further
inventory and classification work is needed to document this alliance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #408 - Other Sagebrush Types (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** These communities occur in relatively dry areas of the
sagebrush desert of Nevada (and probably Utah), from 1200-1800 m in
elevation. Precipitation averages 15-20 cm annually, with a significant
proportion arriving as snow. Growing-season drought is characteristic.
Soils are usually shallow and often unique, including Green River Shale,
heavy clays, or calcareous outcrops or gravels. These communities often
harbor regionally rare plant species. Adjacent vegetation types are most
often dominated by *Artemisia nova*, which often forms the vegetation
matrix surrounding these unique communities. Other contiguous vegetation
types include *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus* or *Atriplex confertifolia*
shrublands.

**Vegetation:** This alliance is characterized by a sparse dwarf-shrub
layer of *Artemisia pygmaea*, with other shrubs scattered through the
stands. Only one association is presently described for this alliance,
from central Nevada (Blackburn et al. 1968c). In addition to *Artemisia
pygmaea*, that association included *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus,
Atriplex confertifolia, Ephedra nevadensis*, and *Artemisia nova* in the
shrub layer. According to the authors, none of these associated shrubs
are constant or characteristic of these communities. A sparse graminoid
layer was usually present, including *Elymus elymoides* and *Achnatherum
hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*. Forbs include *Sphaeralcea
coccinea, Eriogonum caespitosum*, and *Astragalus* spp.

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance has been quantitatively described from Nevada
and may occur in Utah (Welsh et al. 1993).

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:P, M341:P

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968c, Shiflet 1994, Welsh et al. 1987

#### CEGL001436--*Artemisia pygmaea / Elymus elymoides - Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrubland

#### Pygmy Sagebrush / Bottlebrush - Indian Ricegrass Shrubland {#pygmy-sagebrush-bottlebrush---indian-ricegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-89 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Shale Badland (CES304.789)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia pygmaea* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.C.1.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S3S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M341:?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968c, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1098--*Artemisia rothrockii* Shrubland Alliance

### Rothrock\'s Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#rothrocks-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This dwarf-shrubland occurs on slopes and ridges in the
subalpine regions of California. It is generally present in the zone
between meadow and forest, growing on gravelly, carbonate-rich soils.
Elevations range from 2000-3100 m. The nominal species\' growth occurs
mainly early to mid summer, with flowering in late summer. The species
is dormant in the fall, winter, and early spring due to cold. *Artemisia
rothrockii* is the sole or dominant shrub in the canopy. Other shrubs
present may include *Ericameria discoidea, Ericameria suffruticosa,
Penstemon heterodoxus*, and *Monardella odoratissima*. Emergent
conifers, such as *Pinus balfouriana, Pinus contorta var. murrayana*,
and *Pinus albicaulis*, may be present.

**Classification Comments:** *Artemisia rothrockii* is the sole or
dominant shrub in the canopy. California has plot data which defines
some associations.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   Subalpine Sagebrush (Cheatham and Haller 1975) ?

-   Subalpine Sagebrush Scrub (Holland 1986b) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This dwarf-shrubland occurs on slopes and ridges in the
subalpine regions of California. It is generally present in the zone
between meadow and forest, growing on gravelly, carbonate-rich soils.
Elevations range from 2000 to 3100 m. The nominal species\' growth
occurs mainly early to mid-summer, with flowering in late summer. The
species is dormant in the fall, winter, and early spring due to cold.

**Vegetation:** In this California subalpine dwarf-shrubland *Artemisia
rothrockii* is the sole or dominant shrub in the canopy. Other shrubs
present may include *Ericameria discoidea, Ericameria suffruticosa,
Penstemon heterodoxus*, and *Monardella odoratissima*. Emergent conifers
like *Pinus balfouriana, Pinus contorta var. murrayana*, and *Pinus
albicaulis* may be present.

**Dynamics:** The soils that support this alliance are often
carbonate-rich. These carbonates can form a hardpan 20-40 cm below the
surface. Water runs downslope along this hardpan, reducing the amount of
water available to plants, and making these sites droughty.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance occurs in California\'s Sierra Nevada and the
Transverse and Peninsular ranges.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC, M262B:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Cheatham and Haller 1975, Holland 1986b, Sawyer and
Keeler-Wolf 1995

#### CEGL008652--*Artemisia rothrockii / Monardella odoratissima* Shrubland

#### Rothrock\'s Sagebrush / Alpine Mountainbalm Shrubland {#rothrocks-sagebrush-alpine-mountainbalm-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-90 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 6-May-2002

**Concept Auth.:** T. Keeler-Wolf

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** *Artemisia rothrockii* is endemic to
California.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 6-May-2002

**GReasons:** Probably endemic to the central and southern High Sierra
Nevada and perhaps the high Transverse Range of California.

**Ranking Author: Version:** 6-May-2002

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is only known from the vicinity of Yosemite
National Park. Information about its global range is not available
without additional inventory. Anecdotal information suggests that this
association or at least the alliance may range from the northern to the
southern High Sierra (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995).

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 12:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Yosemite)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL003014--*Artemisia rothrockii* Shrubland \[Provisional\]

#### Rothrock\'s Sagebrush Shrubland {#rothrocks-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-91 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Dec-1997

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** M261E:CC, M262B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

## III.B.2.N.a. Temperate cold-deciduous shrubland

### A.2565--*Artemisia frigida* Shrubland Alliance

### Fringed Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#fringed-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland is reported from central Colorado,
associated with prairie dog towns and heavily grazed pastures in the
vicinity of livestock watering ponds. It is located on deeper soils that
are typically deposited in drainages, swales (interfluves), and along
lower hillslopes. The soil must be of a consistency (silty-clay and
clay) that will support burrowing activity in terms of both depth and
cohesiveness. This type is found at elevations ranging from 2545 to 2640
m (8350-8660 feet). The slopes range from 2-7% and are considered
moderately well-drained. This shrubland becomes established on sites
disturbed by prairie dogs. *Artemisia frigida* is an increaser under
livestock grazing regimes and is evidently unpalatable or less palatable
to prairie dogs, as well. The age of the colony determines to what
extent *Artemisia frigida* dominates the site, and the following
description covers sites that have been used by prairie dogs for several
years. Prairie dog colonies that are densely occupied typically have
vegetative cover values less than 40%. The foliar cover for *Artemisia
frigida* ranges from 20-40% and other dwarf-shrubs, i.e., *Ericameria
parryi, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Rosa
acicularis*, and a species of *Solidago*, contribute from 5-20% foliar
cover on some sites. The most abundant graminoid is *Bouteloua
gracilis*, which is an increaser under light to moderate grazing
regimes. *Bouteloua gracilis* contributes approximately 5-10% foliar
cover on sites that are moderate to heavily-grazed. Other graminoids
present on established prairie dog towns include *Schedonnardus
paniculatus, Poa fendleriana*, and *Nassella viridula*. They rarely
contribute greater than 5% foliar cover, unless it is a less densely
populated colony, then the cover values increase for these species.
Forbs generally contribute less than 5% to the foliar cover; those
species commonly associated with these disturbed sites include
*Argentina anserina, Melilotus officinalis*, and *Achillea millefolium*.
Ground cover is typically 60-90% bare soil and small gravel, with the
remainder in herbaceous litter.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This shrubland is reported from central Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO

**TNC Ecoregions:** 20:C, 27:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331I:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Florissant Fossil Beds)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:**

#### CEGL002782--*Artemisia frigida / Bouteloua gracilis* Shrubland \[Provisional\]

#### Fringed Sagebrush / Blue Grama Shrubland {#fringed-sagebrush-blue-grama-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-92 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 27-Aug-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Rocky Mountain Lower Montane-Foothill Shrubland (CES306.822)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland is reported from central Colorado,
associated with prairie dog towns and heavily grazed pastures in the
vicinity of livestock watering ponds. It is located on deeper soils that
are typically deposited in drainages, swales (interfluves), and along
lower hillslopes. The soil must be of a consistency (silty-clay and
clay) that will support burrowing activity in terms of both depth and
cohesiveness. This type is found at elevations ranging from 2545 to 2640
m (8350-8660 feet). The slopes range from 2-7% and are considered
moderately well-drained. This shrubland becomes established on sites
disturbed by prairie dogs. *Artemisia frigida* is an increaser under
livestock grazing regimes and is evidently unpalatable or less palatable
to prairie dogs, as well. The age of the colony determines to what
extent *Artemisia frigida* dominates the site, and the following
description covers sites that have been used by prairie dogs for several
years. Prairie dog colonies that are densely occupied typically have
vegetative cover values less than 40%. The foliar cover for *Artemisia
frigida* ranges from 20-40% and other dwarf-shrubs, i.e., *Ericameria
parryi, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Rosa
acicularis*, and a species of *Solidago*, contribute from 5-20% foliar
cover on some sites. The most abundant graminoid is *Bouteloua
gracilis*, which is an increaser under light to moderate grazing
regimes. *Bouteloua gracilis* contributes approximately 5-10% foliar
cover on sites that are moderate to heavily-grazed. Other graminoids
present on established prairie dog towns include *Schedonnardus
paniculatus, Poa fendleriana*, and *Nassella viridula*. They rarely
contribute greater than 5% foliar cover, unless it is a less densely
populated colony, then the cover values increase for these species.
Forbs generally contribute less than 5% to the foliar cover; those
species commonly associated with these disturbed sites include
*Argentina anserina, Melilotus officinalis*, and *Achillea millefolium*.
Ground cover is typically 60-90% bare soil and small gravel, with the
remainder in herbaceous litter.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 27-Aug-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This shrubland is reported from central Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO

**TNC Ecoregions:** 20:C, 27:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331I:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Florissant Fossil Beds)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

## III.B.3.N.a. Extremely xeromorphic deciduous subdesert shrubland without succulents

### A.2551--*Artemisia papposa* Shrubland Alliance

### Owyhee Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#owyhee-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Associations within this low-growing dwarf-shrub alliance
occur on mid-elevation (1525-1830 m (5000-6000 feet)), poorly drained
basins and ephemeral drainage ways in the southern foothill basins of
the Smokey Mountains of south-central Idaho and on the high plateaus of
the Owyhee Plateau of southwestern Idaho and southeastern Oregon.
*Artemisia papposa* is dominant in the open deciduous dwarf-shrub
canopy. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* is often also present.
Important perennial grass species include *Festuca idahoensis, Poa
secunda, Achnatherum thurberianum*, and *Danthonia unispicata*.
Characteristic forbs and subshrubs include *Eriogonum thymoides,
Eriogonum heracleoides*, and *Eriogonum microthecum, Idahoa scapigera,
Antennaria flagellaris, Ionactis alpina (= Aster scopulorum), Pyrrocoma
uniflora (= Haploppapus uniflorus), Stenotus acaulis (= Haploppapus
acaulis)*, and *Trifolium macrocephalum*. The vagrant lichen,
*Dermatocarpon* sp., is often present with high-quality ecological
conditions. Little information regarding the successional dynamics of
*Artemisia papposa* or the response of stands to disturbance is
available. Associations of the alliance appear to be late-seral
communities.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Associations of the alliance occur at mid-elevations,
from 1525 to 1830 m (5000-6000 feet) on level to gentle, poorly drained
to internally drained concave basins and ephemeral drainage ways. Soils
are shallow, clayey and skeletal, overlying basalt bedrock.

**Vegetation:** Stands of the alliance are characterized by an open
dwarf-shrub canopy. *Artemisia papposa* is the dominant shrub and
contributes at least 40% of the total sagebrush cover; *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* is often also present. *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana* or *Artemisia cana* are also occasionally present. Other
woody species (subshrubs) include *Eriogonum thymoides, Eriogonum
heracleoides*, and *Eriogonum microthecum*. Important perennial grass
species include *Festuca idahoensis, Poa secunda, Achnatherum
thurberianum*, and *Danthonia unispicata*. Characteristic forbs include
*Idahoa scapigera, Antennaria flagellaris, Ionactis alpina (= Aster
scopulorum), Pyrrocoma uniflora (= Haploppapus uniflorus), Stenotus
acaulis (= Haploppapus acaulis)*, and *Trifolium macrocephalum*. The
vagrant lichen, *Dermatocarpon* sp., is often present with high-quality
ecological conditions.

**Dynamics:** Little information regarding the successional dynamics of
*Artemisia papposa* is available. Associations of the alliance appear to
be late-seral communities. Little is known about the response of stands
to disturbance. Feral horses browse *Artemisia papposa* is spring. Deer
and sheep consume the flower stalks in summer.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This low-growing dwarf-shrub alliance occurs in the southern
foothill basins of the Smokey Mountains of south-central Idaho and on
the high plateaus of the Owyhee Plateau of southwestern Idaho and
southeastern Oregon. The alliance may also occur in Nevada, but has not
been reported from there.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, OR

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Jankovsky-Jones et al. 2001

#### CEGL002991--*Artemisia papposa / Danthonia californica - Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland

#### Owyhee Sagebrush / California Oatgrass - Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#owyhee-sagebrush-california-oatgrass---idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-93 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.: Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 16-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Playa (CES304.786)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 16-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, OR

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:P, 8:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342:P

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1127--*Artemisia pedatifida* Shrubland Alliance

### Birdfoot Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#birdfoot-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This dwarf-shrub alliance is reported from the Pryor
Mountains in the northern portion of the Bighorn Basin of south-central
Montana and dissected uplands of the Cheyenne River Basin in
northeastern Wyoming. Stands typically occur in slight depressions on
alluvial fans and terraces, dissected outwash or rolling plains, lower
foothills, and badlands. Sites are flat to moderately steep often highly
eroded slopes with southern or western aspects. Soils are deep, poorly
drained, and typically alkaline and saline with silt-loam to clay
texture. The soil surface is mostly bare ground. Substrate is derived
from shale or sandstone interbedded with shale, claystone or clay. The
vegetation is characterized by a moderately dense dwarf-shrub layer that
is dominated by *Artemisia pedatifida*. *Atriplex gardneri* may
codominate in some stands. Other woody species may include scattered
*Artemisia tridentata, Atriplex confertifolia, Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Eriogonum pauciflorum, Krascheninnikovia
lanata, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, or *Suaeda moquinii (= Suaeda nigra)*.
The moderately sparse herbaceous layer is often dominated by cool-season
graminoids such as *Pascopyrum smithii* or *Elymus elymoides* with
lesser amounts of *Bouteloua gracilis, Carex filifolia, Elymus
lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Poa secunda (= Poa juncifolia)*, or
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*. Forbs are generally sparse and may include
scattered *Allium textile, Astragalus* spp., *Comandra umbellata,
Machaeranthera tanacetifolia, Musineon divaricatum, Phlox hoodii,
Platyschkuhria integrifolia, Vicia americana, Xylorhiza glabriuscula*,
or the cactus *Opuntia polyacantha*. Annual grasses and forbs are
seasonally present. Diagnostic of this alliance is the dwarf-shrub layer
dominated by *Artemisia pedatifida*.

**Classification Comments:** This description is based on stands in
northeastern Wyoming (Thilenius et al. 1995) and south-central Montana
(DeVelice and Lesica 1993, Kratz 1988). The other Wyoming references
were not available. Similar habitats in Wyoming in the Bighorn Canyon
National Recreation Area were surveyed by Knight et al. (1987), but
these shrublands were not described there. Some stands have very sparse
vegetation cover and may be better classified in a sparsely vegetated
alliance (Kratz 1988).

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida* Shrubland Alliance (A.1127)

-   *Atriplex gardneri* Dwarf-shrubland Alliance (A.1110)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** These similar alliances are also
\"badland\" alliances and share similar shale barren habitats and the
diagnostic species.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida-Atriplex nuttallii* Community Type (DeVelice
    and Lesica 1993) I

-   *Artemisia pedatifida/Agropyron spicatum* plant community type
    (Kratz 1988) ?

-   *Artemisia pedatifida* Vegetation Type (Thilenius et al. 1995) ?

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Vegetation included in this alliance is reported from
the Pryor Mountains in the northern portion of the Bighorn Basin of
south-central Montana (1250-1525 m elevation), and dissected uplands of
the Cheyenne River Basin in northeastern Wyoming (1830-1600 m
elevation). The climate is temperate and semi-arid, with hot and dry
summers. Mean annual precipitation ranges from 25-35 cm with two-thirds
occurring in the spring and early summer. Stands typically occur in
slight depressions on alluvial fans and terraces, dissected outwash or
rolling plains, lower foothills, and badlands. Sites are generally flat
to gently sloping, or moderately steep, and often highly eroded with
southern or western aspects. Soils are deep, poorly drained, and
typically alkaline and saline with silt-loam to clay texture. The soil
surface is mostly bare ground. Substrate is derived from shale or
sandstone interbedded with shale, claystone or clay.

Adjacent vegetation includes shrublands dominated by *Sarcobatus
vermiculatus* or *Artemisia tridentata* on better drained sites and
*Atriplex gardneri* on more saline soils, and grasslands dominated by
*Pascopyrum smithii* on finer-textured soils.

**Vegetation:** These stands are found on shale breaks in dissected
alluvial fans and terraces, outwash and rolling plains, and foothills in
Montana and Wyoming. Stands have a moderately dense dwarf-shrub layer
that is dominated by *Artemisia pedatifida*. *Atriplex gardneri*
codominates in some stands. Other woody species may include scattered
*Artemisia tridentata, Atriplex confertifolia, Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Eriogonum pauciflorum, Krascheninnikovia
lanata, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, or *Suaeda moquinii (= Suaeda nigra)*.
The moderately sparse herbaceous layer is often dominated by cool-season
graminoids such as *Pascopyrum smithii* or *Elymus elymoides* with
lesser amounts of *Bouteloua gracilis, Carex filifolia, Elymus
lanceolatus ssp. lanceolatus, Poa secunda (= Poa juncifolia)*, or
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*. Forbs are typically sparse and may include
scattered *Allium textile, Astragalus* spp., *Comandra umbellata,
Machaeranthera tanacetifolia, Musineon divaricatum, Phlox hoodii,
Platyschkuhria integrifolia, Vicia americana, Xylorhiza glabriuscula*,
or the cactus *Opuntia polyacantha*. Annual grasses and forbs are
present seasonally.

**Dynamics:** Harsh environmental conditions limit the abundance and
species diversity of plants. Because of the poor subsurface soil
drainage, the upper horizons are saturated and then completely dry out
between summer rainstorms. The alternating soil-moisture extremes help
create these distinctive plant communities (Thilenius et al. 1995).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Stands in this alliance are restricted to shale breaks and
badlands terrain in south-central Montana and northeastern Wyoming.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C, 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342A:CC, 342G:CC, M331B:CC,
M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Bighorn Canyon)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** DeVelice and Lesica 1993, Earth Resource Technology
n.d., Gibbens 1972, Knight et al. 1987, Kratz 1988, Lesica and DeVelice
1992, Leucite Hills Mine Application n.d., Seminoe I Mine Application
n.d., Thilenius et al. 1995

#### CEGL001525--*Artemisia pedatifida - Atriplex gardneri* Shrubland

#### Birdfoot Sagebrush - Gardner\'s Saltbush Shrubland {#birdfoot-sagebrush---gardners-saltbush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-94 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** K.A. Schulz and S.V. Cooper

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Shale Badland (CES304.789)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This dwarf-shrub association is restricted to arid climatic
regimes and poorly drained, fine-textured, alkaline substrates on
alluvial fans and terraces, and less frequently on moderate slopes of
outwash plains in the Big Horn Basin and Pryor mountains of Montana and
in Wyoming. Elevation ranges from 1250-1525 m. Characteristic parent
materials are somewhat saline, clay to silt-loam-textured alluvium that
is derived from shales and claystone interbedded with lesser amounts of
sandstone. This association typically has a moderately dense dwarf-shrub
canopy (42% mean cover that is codominated by *Artemisia pedatifida* and
*Atriplex gardneri*, sometimes with a sparse cover of *Artemisia
tridentata* shrubs present. The herbaceous layer is relatively sparse
(\<25% cover) and is dominated by perennial graminoids with scattered
forbs. Grasses with high consistency include *Poa secunda (= Poa
juncifolia), Pseudoroegneria spicata*, and *Pascopyrum smithii*.
Frequent forbs include *Allium textile, Musineon divaricatum, Phlox
hoodii, Platyschkuhria integrifolia*, and occasionally denser cover of
*Vicia americana* and the cactus *Opuntia polyacantha*. There are two
other associations with similar dwarf-shrub canopies and habitats, but
they have diagnostic graminoid layers of moderate cover of *Pascopyrum
smithii* or *Elymus elymoides*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Atriplex gardneri* Dwarf-shrubland (CEGL001438)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida/Atriplex gardneri* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** K.A. Schulz and S.V. Cooper **Version:**
26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 14-Nov-1997

**GReasons:** In Montana this association has a restricted range, having
been documented (at least 9 plots distributed over alluvial terraces and
fans on the southern flanks of the Pryor Mountains) to occur wholly
within what is the northernmost extension of the Bighorn Basin.
Characteristic parent materials are somewhat saline, fine-textured
(mostly clays to silt-loams) alluvium derived from shales and claystone
interbedded with lesser amounts of sandstone; these substrates are
locally prominent in this region of Montana and apparently extend well
into Wyoming as an extensive substrate type. Coinciding factors that
make this area unique in Montana are the driest of Montana\'s
mesoclimates and the northernmost extension of a Great Basin flora,
notably *Artemisia pedatifida*. In their portion of the Bighorn Basin,
the Wyoming Natural Diversity Database (1992) has described some very
similar community types that are differentiated in part from that
described here by having a conspicuous graminoid layer. This is a
resilient type and degradation could reasonably be expected to come only
through mechanical impact (such as roading and off-road vehicle use).

**Ranking Author:** S.V. Cooper **Version:** 14-Oct-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is apparently coincident with the Bighorn
Basin Section of the Intermountain Semi-Desert Province, restricted to
arid climatic regimes, and salt-affected, fine-textured substrates.
There are additional factors that control its distribution because these
requirements alone do not differentiate a unique habitat, many
communities occurring under such conditions.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT:S2, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:?, 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331G:CC, 342A:CC, 342G:CP, M331B:??

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, DeVelice and Lesica 1993,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Lesica and DeVelice 1992, WYNDD unpubl. data,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001450--*Artemisia pedatifida / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland

#### Birdfoot Sagebrush / Bottlebrush Shrubland {#birdfoot-sagebrush-bottlebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Birdfoot Sagebrush / Bottlebrush Squirreltail Dwarf-shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#birdfoot-sagebrush-bottlebrush-squirreltail-dwarf-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** G.P. Jones

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Shale Badland (CES304.789)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This vegetation type has been reported from basins in
south-central Wyoming, where it occurs on level to moderately sloping
sites with soils of clay to loam texture. The low vegetation is composed
mainly of dwarf-shrubs and grasses. The dwarf-shrub component generally
consists of *Artemisia pedatifida* and at least one other species,
either *Kochia americana, Atriplex gardneri*, or *Krascheninnikovia
lanata*. *Elymus elymoides* and *Poa secunda* generally are the major
herbaceous species, although *Achnatherum hymenoides, Pascopyrum
smithii*, and *Phlox hoodii* usually are present and may contribute
substantial cover.

**Classification Comments:** Stands of vegetation with a dwarf-shrub
layer dominated by *Artemisia pedatifida* have been described from
several locations in south-central and east-central Wyoming. These
stands have been divided into two associations, this one (CEGL001450)
and *Artemisia pedatifida / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland (CEGL001451).
These two associations seem to be overlap substantially in species
composition, sharing *Krascheninnikovia lanata* (and, less often,
*Kochia americana* and *Atriplex gardneri*) in the dwarf-shrub component
and *Pascopyrum smithii, Elymus elymoides, Poa secunda, Achnatherum
hymenoides*, and *Phlox hoodii* in the herbaceous component. The two
associations have been differentiated on the basis of relative cover of
grasses; stands in which *Elymus elymoides* dominates are placed into
this association, while stands where *Pascopyrum smithii* dominates are
placed into the other, even though these stands may share a large number
of species. It is unclear whether these differences in relative amounts
of grasses represent different environments, different patterns of use,
or other meaningful differences.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland (CEGL001451)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida/Elymus elymoides* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE: IV.C.2.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G.P. Jones **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-2000

**GReasons:** The global rank has been changed from G3 to G3? because
the number of stands and the geographic distribution of this association
are poorly known. This association has been described only from
south-central Wyoming, but better information on *Artemisia pedatifida*
vegetation in northern Colorado, northeastern Wyoming, and eastern
Montana may expand the range of this association. Differences between
this association and another closely related association need to be
clarified. Until the vegetation and environment of this type are better
understood, the rank will remain uncertain.

**Ranking Author:** G. Jones **Version:** 30-Nov-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association has been described only from south-central
Wyoming, but better information on *Artemisia pedatifida* vegetation in
northern Colorado, northeastern Wyoming, and eastern Montana may show
that it has a much broader geographic range.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Gibbens 1972, Leucite Hills Mine Application n.d., Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001526--*Artemisia pedatifida / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland

#### Birdfoot Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrubland {#birdfoot-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Birdfoot Sagewort / Idaho Fescue Sparse Dwarf-shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#birdfoot-sagewort-idaho-fescue-sparse-dwarf-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Shale Badland (CES304.789)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE: V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   UNESCO FORMATION CODE: V.B.3e (UNESCO 1973) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association is poorly described. The region where
found is on the eastern side of the Continental Divide and so is more
strongly influenced by a continental climate regime. Precipitation is
fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but heavy snows occur
during the winter months. Summers are cool, and winters are cold. This
association is found in the montane zone at roughly 7000 feet elevation,
on moderate slopes. Soils are dry, alkaline, and derived from alluvium.
*Artemisia pedatifida* is known to occur on soils that are fine-textured
to loamy with gravel, but have a high percentage of clay in some
horizons.

**Vegetation:** This is a poorly known association, reported by Mueggler
and Stewart (1980). The microphyllous-leaved evergreen shrub *Artemisia
pedatifida* is dominant and typically less than 15.2 cm in height. In
this association it is relatively sparse in canopy cover. The perennial
bunchgrass *Festuca idahoensis* dominates the herbaceous layer, and is
relatively abundant. Other perennial grasses commonly found include *Poa
secunda, Pseudoroegneria spicata, Calamagrostis montanensis*, and
*Elymus lanceolatus*. Forbs are relatively scarce and consist primarily
of the mat-forming perennials *Antennaria rosea* and *Phlox hoodii*. No
other information is available.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 4-Aug-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:** The range of distribution is restricted. The association
description is from only one stand, but is apparently considered a
legitimate association by the authors.

**Ranking Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 4-Aug-1993

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** It is described from one site in Beaverhead County,
southwestern Montana, near the border with Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** M332E:C?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Mueggler and Handl 1974, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, UNESCO 1973, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001451--*Artemisia pedatifida / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland

#### Birdfoot Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrubland {#birdfoot-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

#### *Birdfoot Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Dwarf-shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#birdfoot-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-dwarf-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** G.P. Jones

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Shale Badland (CES304.789)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This vegetation type has been reported from the Cheyenne
River Basin in east-central Wyoming and basins in south-central Wyoming.
It occurs on broad ridgetops, gentle slopes, and level (or slightly
concave) sites with soils of clay to loam texture. Soils often have a
dense subsurface horizon that impedes percolation of water. The low
vegetation is composed mainly of dwarf-shrubs and grasses. The
dwarf-shrub component consists of *Artemisia pedatifida* and, often,
*Krascheninnikovia lanata* and small shrubs of *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. wyomingensis*. *Pascopyrum smithii* dominates the herbaceous
component or codominates with *Koeleria macrantha* or *Achnatherum
hymenoides*. *Hesperostipa comata, Elymus elymoides, Poa secunda*, and
*Phlox hoodii* often are present.

**Classification Comments:** Stands of vegetation with a dwarf-shrub
layer dominated by *Artemisia pedatifida* have been described from
several locations in south-central and east-central Wyoming. These
stands have been divided into two associations, this type (CEGL001451)
and *Artemisia pedatifida / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland (CEGL001450).
These two associations seem to be overlap substantially in species
composition, sharing *Krascheninnikovia lanata* (and, less often,
*Kochia americana* and *Atriplex gardneri*) in the dwarf-shrub component
and *Pascopyrum smithii, Elymus elymoides, Poa secunda, Achnatherum
hymenoides*, and *Phlox hoodii* in the herbaceous component. The two
associations have been differentiated on the basis of relative cover of
grasses; stands in which *Pascopyrum smithii* dominates or codominates
are placed into this association, while stands where *Elymus elymoides*
dominates are placed into the other, even though these stands may share
a large number of species. It is unclear whether these differences in
relative amounts of grasses represent different environments, different
patterns of use, or other meaningful differences.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland (CEGL001450)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida/Pascopyrum smithii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.C.2.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G.P. Jones **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-2000

**GReasons:** The global rank has been changed from G3 to G3? because
the number of stands and the geographic distribution of this association
are poorly known. This association has been described only from
south-central Wyoming, but better information on *Artemisia pedatifida*
vegetation in northern Colorado, northeastern Wyoming, and eastern
Montana may expand the range of this association. Differences between
this association and another closely related association need to be
clarified. Until the vegetation and environment of this type are better
understood, the rank will remain uncertain.

**Ranking Author:** G. Jones **Version:** 30-Nov-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association has been described from south-central and
east-central Wyoming, but better information on *Artemisia pedatifida*
vegetation in northern Colorado and eastern Montana may show that it has
a much broader geographic range.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Earth Resource Technology n.d., Seminoe I Mine Application n.d.,
Thilenius et al. 1995, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001527--*Artemisia pedatifida / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland

#### Birdfoot Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland {#birdfoot-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-95 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Shale Badland (CES304.789)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia pedatifida/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342A:CC, M331B:PP

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Lesica and DeVelice 1992, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1038--*Grayia spinosa* Shrubland Alliance

### Spiny Hop-sage Shrubland Alliance {#spiny-hop-sage-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Vegetation in this alliance occurs throughout the lower to
middle elevations (600-1600 m) of the Great Basin and the eastern Mojave
Desert, usually on mountain slopes or alluvial fans bordering
intermountain basins. The climate is arid to semi-arid with
precipitation ranging from 15-30 cm annually. Winter precipitation
dominates in the western area, with summer rain becoming more important
eastward. Soils are highly variable, but are generally coarse-textured
and well-drained, and often alkaline. The vegetation is more
drought-tolerant than *Artemisia tridentata*-dominated communities and
typically occurs where local climate or salty soils create high moisture
stress. This alliance is characterized by a sparse to moderately dense
shrub layer of *Grayia spinosa*. Other shrub species are species of
Mojavean or Great Basin affinities. Species found in southern stands
include *Menodora spinescens, Picrothamnus desertorum (= Artemisia
spinescens), Ephedra nevadensis, Atriplex confertifolia, Atriplex
canescens, Coleogyne ramosissima*, and *Larrea tridentata*.
Occasionally, scattered individuals of *Yucca brevifolia* may be
emergent through the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer in these xeric
southern stands is typically sparse with *Achnatherum speciosum (= Stipa
speciosa), Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Achnatherum
hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Navarretia* spp., and *Eriogonum*
spp. being common associates. Northward, and at higher elevations, the
Mojavean element drops out, and common shrub associates include
*Artemisia nova, Artemisia tridentata, Ephedra viridis, Chrysothamnus*
spp., and *Prunus andersonii*. Herbaceous associates include *Elymus
elymoides, Poa secunda, Stipa* spp., and *Festuca* spp.

**Classification Comments:** Currently there are no associations placed
in this alliance from California. Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf (1995) do
report a Hop-sage Series that is included as part of this alliance.
further classification and inventory work is needed to develop the
association-level classification of this alliance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Grayia spinosa - Ephedra viridis* Shrubland Alliance (A.1057)

-   *Grayia spinosa* Intermittently Flooded Shrubland Alliance (A.1045)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is the most widespread and
variable of the *Grayia spinosa* alliances, occurring in diverse
habitats. Vegetation in this alliance can be differentiated from the
alliances above by the strong dominance of *Grayia spinosa* in the shrub
layer, and its broad distribution in non-wetland locations.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Hop-sage Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) ?

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Vegetation in this alliance occurs throughout the lower
to middle elevations (600-1600 m) of the Great Basin and the eastern
Mojave Desert, usually on mountain slopes or alluvial fans bordering
intermountain basins. The climate is arid to semi-arid with
precipitation ranging from 15-30 cm annually. Winter precipitation
dominates in the western area, with summer rain becoming more important
eastward. Temperatures are continental, with large annual and diurnal
ranges. Soils are highly variable, but are generally coarse-textured and
well-drained, and often alkaline.

The vegetation is more drought-tolerant than *Artemisia
tridentata*-dominated communities and typically occurs where local
climate or salty soils create high moisture stress. Adjacent vegetation
is typically *Artemisia* shrublands at the upper elevational margin and
*Atriplex* or *Sarcobatus* shrublands in lower elevation deserts or
sites with heavy alkali soils. In the Mojave region, the communities may
be adjacent to *Larrea tridentata* sparse shrublands.

**Vegetation:** This alliance is characterized by a sparse to moderately
dense shrub layer of *Grayia spinosa*. Other shrub species are species
of Mojavean or Great Basin affinities. Species found in southern stands
include *Menodora spinescens, Picrothamnus desertorum (= Artemisia
spinescens), Ephedra nevadensis, Atriplex confertifolia, Atriplex
canescens, Coleogyne ramosissima*, and *Larrea tridentata*.
Occasionally, scattered individuals of *Yucca brevifolia* may be
emergent through the shrub layer. The herbaceous layer in these xeric
southern stands is typically sparse with *Achnatherum speciosum (= Stipa
speciosa), Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii), Achnatherum
hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Navarretia* spp., and *Eriogonum*
spp. being common associates. Northward, and at higher elevations, the
Mojavean element drops out and common shrub associates include
*Artemisia nova, Artemisia tridentata, Ephedra viridis, Chrysothamnus*
spp., and *Prunus andersonii*. Herbaceous associates include *Elymus
elymoides, Poa secunda, Stipa* spp., and *Festuca* spp.

**Dynamics:** *Grayia spinosa* shrubs concentrate chemical elements in
their leaves and fruits, and soils beneath the shrubs often show high
levels of magnesium and potassium. Seeds remain viable for long periods
(4 years or more) before germination (Mozingo 1987). Due to its wide
geographic range, the species may demonstrate considerable ecotypic
variation. For example, seeds from Mojave Desert individuals can
germinate at 40 degrees Celsius, but seeds from Great Basin plants can
not germinate at that high temperature (Mozingo 1987).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance occurs throughout the Great Basin, Columbia
Plateau, and eastern Mojave regions of Nevada, Washington, and eastern
California. It is most extensive in the southwestern portion of the
Great Basin. It probably also occurs in Utah and Oregon, but currently
is not described from those states, and the single association reported
from Wyoming may not belong in this alliance.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV, OR, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C, 17:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 322A:PP, 341:C, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342G:CC, 342I:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Barrows et al. 1977, Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn
et al. 1968c, Blackburn et al. 1969d, Daubenmire 1970, Kurzius 1981,
Mozingo 1987, Ralston 1969, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995

#### CEGL001344--*Grayia spinosa / Artemisia nova / Achnatherum speciosum* Shrubland

#### Spiny Hop-sage / Black Sagebrush / Desert Needlegrass Shrubland {#spiny-hop-sage-black-sagebrush-desert-needlegrass-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-96 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Grayia spinosa/Artemisia nova/Stipa speciosa* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.C.2.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1969d, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001345--*Grayia spinosa / Picrothamnus desertorum* Shrubland

#### Spiny Hop-sage / Bud Sagebrush Shrubland {#spiny-hop-sage-bud-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-97 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Sonora-Mojave Creosotebush-White Bursage Desert Scrub (CES302.756)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Grayia spinosa/Artemisia spinescens* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994)
    =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.C.2.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968c, Blackburn et al. 1969d,
Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

### A.1128--*Picrothamnus desertorum* Shrubland Alliance

### Bud Sagebrush Shrubland Alliance {#bud-sagebrush-shrubland-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Little information is available for the *Picrothamnus
desertorum* Shrubland Alliance (A.1128). It is one of the least common
salt desert shrub communities. It occurs on alkaline, lacustrine ash
deposits of the Owyhee Uplands, along the margins of the large playas,
and on alluvial gravel deposits of Pleistocene lake basins. These latter
habitats are the most prevalent in Nevada, and thus the alliance may
prove to be more common than presently documented. *Picrothamnus
desertorum (= Artemisia spinescens)* is the indicator woody species,
with *Elymus elymoides* the dominant graminoid species. Some valley
margins sites with deep ash or alkaline sands support only open
understories of *Elymus elymoides, Achnatherum hymenoides*, and
*Hesperostipa comata*.

**Classification Comments:** Data from the Northern Great Basin in
Harney and Lake counties of Oregon includes 27 plots dominated by
*Picrothamnus desertorum*. These plots have not been classified, but
based on their species composition, they would be classified as
*Picrothamnus desertorum / Elymus elymoides* or *Picrothamnus desertorum
/ Achnatherum hymenoides* or *Picrothamnus desertorum / Bromus
tectorum*. No plot data are available from ash deposit communities.

One of the associations in this alliance, *Picrothamnus desertorum*
Shrubland (CEGL001452), is very poorly documented. There is only one
reference source presently known for this association, Montana Natural
Heritage Program, Data on File (n.d.). The Montana Heritage Program
ecologist was consulted and could find no data for this association in
the files. The alliance is also reported from Oregon, as described
above, but further data collection and inventory efforts are needed to
confirm this alliance and its characteristics as described here.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland Alliance (A.870)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This type is quite similar to the
*Atriplex confertifolia* Shrubland Alliance (A.870), which can be found
both on ash deposits and on salt-desert valley margins. The two can be
distinguished only by the dominance of *Picrothamnus desertorum* in the
shrub layer.

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Climate where this alliance occurs is hot and dry,
generally with less than 20 cm of rainfall per year. This vegetation
type is found on all aspects and slopes, generally along valley margins.
Soils are alkaline, and occasionally exposed tuffacious ash.

**Vegetation:** This is a salt desert scrub, sagebrush vegetation type
with low shrub cover, but often diverse. *Picrothamnus desertorum (=
Artemisia spinescens)* dominates, but usually occurs with lower cover of
other shrubs. These are, in order of significance, *Grayia spinosa,
Atriplex confertifolia, Sarcobatus vermiculatus, Artemisia tridentata
(ssp. wyomingensis* and *ssp. tridentata), Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus,
Krascheninnikovia lanata, Ephedra nevadensis*, and *Tetradymia spinosa*.
The understory is also sparse, with *Elymus elymoides, Poa secunda,
Achnatherum hymenoides, Achnatherum thurberianum, Hesperostipa comata*,
and generally *Bromus tectorum*. Desert forbs, including species of
*Chaenactis, Astragalus, Suaeda*, and *Eriogonum*, are often present at
very low density.

**Dynamics:** These are open habitats, which generally do not support
enough fuel to carry a fire. Occasionally, they are impacted by blowing
sand or erosion, but generally are very stable.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found in Idaho, Oregon, Nevada, and possibly
Montana.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, MT?, NV, OR

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341E:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M331B:CC,
M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** MTNHP unpubl. data, ORNHP unpubl. data

#### CEGL002992--*Picrothamnus desertorum / Elymus elymoides* Shrubland \[Provisional\]

#### Bud Sagebrush / Bottlebrush Shrubland {#bud-sagebrush-bottlebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-98 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 16-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Mixed Salt Desert Scrub (CES304.784)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 16-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, NV?, OR:SU

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001452--*Picrothamnus desertorum* Shrubland

#### Bud Sagebrush Shrubland {#bud-sagebrush-shrubland .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-99 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Mixed Salt Desert Scrub (CES304.784)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia spinescens* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.C.2.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G4 **GRank Review Date:** 20-Sep-2000

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 20-Sep-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT?, NV:S3S4, OR:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341E:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M331B:CC,
M341A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
MTNHP unpubl. data, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

# V. Herbaceous Vegetation

## V.A.6.N.f. Medium-tall temperate or subpolar grassland with a sparse needle-leaved evergreen or mixed tree layer

### A.1500--*Juniperus occidentalis* Wooded Herbaceous Alliance

### Western Juniper Wooded Herbaceous Alliance {#western-juniper-wooded-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Stands of this alliance are widely distributed along the
northern and western margins of the Great Basin, from southwestern Idaho
to northeastern California, from 200 m to over 1500 m elevation.
Throughout the range the climate is semi-arid, with 23-36 cm of
precipitation annually. Most of the precipitation is winter rain. The
temperature regime is cool summer-continental, with a wide range in
diurnal temperatures and night frosts through most of the year. Summer
lightning storms and associated fires are common in the environments
where this type occurs and are presumably important in structuring the
vegetation. Generally soils are medium-textured, with abundant coarse
fragments, and derived from volcanic parent materials. In central
Oregon, the center of its range, vegetation of this alliance is found on
all aspects and slope positions. Vegetation within this alliance is
usually characterized by a sparse overstory of *Juniperus occidentalis*.
*Cercocarpus ledifolius*, a tall shrub or small tree, may also be
common. Other shrubs which commonly occur in these woodlands are
*Purshia tridentata, Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus),
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ribes cereum*, and *Artemisia rigida,
Artemisia arbuscula* or *Artemisia tridentata*. The herbaceous layer is
usually comprised of annual and perennial grasses such as
*Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca idahoensis, Poa secunda, Koeleria
macrantha*, and *Stipa* spp. Common forbs include *Achillea millefolium,
Balsamorhiza* spp., and *Trifolium macrocephalum*. Adjacent vegetation
is most commonly *Pinus ponderosa* forests, *Juniperus occidentalis*
woodlands, or *Artemisia* steppe.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis* Wooded Tall Herbaceous Alliance (A.1489)

-   *Juniperus occidentalis* Woodland Alliance (A.535)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance typically contains a sparse
canopy of scattered *Juniperus occidentalis* within a matrix of
herbaceous, usually graminoid vegetation. Although the herbaceous layer
is dominant it rarely exceeds 50% cover.

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands of this alliance are widely distributed along
the northern and western margins of the Great Basin, from southwestern
Idaho to northeastern California. Elevations range from under 200 m
along the Columbia River in central Washington to over 1500 m in
California. Throughout the range the climate is semi-arid, with 23-36 cm
of precipitation annually, and a maximum in winter. The temperature
regime is cool summer-continental, with a wide range in diurnal
temperatures and night frosts through most of the year. Summer lightning
storms and associated fire are common in the environments where this
type occurs and are presumably important in structuring the vegetation.
Generally soils are medium-textured, with abundant coarse fragments, and
derived from volcanic parent materials. In central Oregon, the center of
its range, vegetation of this alliance is found on all aspects and slope
positions. Contiguous vegetation is most commonly *Pinus ponderosa*
forests or *Juniperus occidentalis* woodlands and *Artemisia* steppe at
the wetter and drier margins, respectively.

**Vegetation:** Vegetation within this alliance is usually characterized
by a sparse overstory of *Juniperus occidentalis*. *Cercocarpus
ledifolius*, a tall shrub or small tree, may also be common. Other
shrubs which commonly occur in these woodlands are *Purshia tridentata,
Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Ribes cereum*, and *Artemisia rigida, Artemisia
arbuscula* or *Artemisia tridentata*. More commonly, this alliance is
characterized by a well-developed herbaceous layer of perennial bunch
grasses. The herbaceous layer is usually comprised of annual and
perennial grasses such as *Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca idahoensis,
Poa secunda, Koeleria macrantha*, and *Stipa* spp. Common forbs include
*Achillea millefolium, Balsamorhiza* spp., and *Trifolium
macrocephalum*.

**Dynamics:** *Juniperus occidentalis* has been documented to germinate
and grow preferentially under the canopy of *Artemisia* and other shrubs
(Everett 1986), and is currently expanding its range into surrounding
steppe vegetation types. Burkhardt and Tisdale (1969) noted that larger,
older trees are often associated with rock outcrops, while younger trees
are prevalent on adjacent alluvial soils. This pattern has also been
observed in northeastern California (Barbour and Major 1977). This
pattern has been interpreted to mean that *Juniperus occidentalis*
colonizes from rocky refuges which offer shelter from fire, and that the
recent expansion of these woodlands can be linked to fire suppression.
In most stands of this alliance, individual trees are small, possibly
indicating recent colonization of grassland habitats.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Vegetation within this alliance occurs along the northern and
western edges of the Great Basin from northeastern California north to
central Washington and east to southwestern Idaho. The areas of broadest
distribution are central Oregon and the Modoc Plateau of northeastern
California. Both areas lie just east of the Cascade Mountains and have
extensive moderate elevation terrain with mild topography. This type is
found west of the Cascade-Sierra axis in the upper Klamath Basin, where
it occurs in the rain shadow of the Klamath Mountains. Vegetation within
this alliance has a peripheral range relative to the *Juniperus
occidentalis* Woodland Alliance (A.535), usually occurring on the drier
edges of the woodland where trees are intermingling with or invading the
surrounding steppe grasslands.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, ID, NV?, OR, WA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC,
M261G:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1980b, Barrows et al. 1977, Burkhardt and Tisdale
1969, Copeland 1980b, Dealy 1978, Dealy et al. 1978, Driscoll 1964a,
Driscoll 1964b, Eckert 1957, Everett 1986, Franklin et al. 1972, Hall
1973, Hall 1978, Hopkins 1979a, Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992, Johnson
and Simon 1987, Kagan 1988, Moir et al. 1973b, Segura-Bustamante 1970,
Volland 1976, Winward and Youtie 1976

#### CEGL001716--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Dwarf Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-dwarf-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-100 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia arbuscula/Festuca idahoensis*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S2, ID:S3, OR:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Eckert 1957, Hall 1973, Hall 1978, Hopkins 1979a, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001715--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia arbuscula / Poa secunda* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Dwarf Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-dwarf-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-101 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.P. Murray

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is known from the central Blue and Ochoco
mountains, and from the Steens Mountains in the northern Great Basin. It
occurs in shallow scablands where sufficient moisture and basalt cracks
allow for the establishment of *Juniperus occidentalis*. Slopes are
generally fairly flat (2-15%) at elevations of 4000-5800 feet. Soils are
usually of igneous parent material (lava) of a sandy loam to loamy
character. This is a savanna-like assemblage with *Juniperus
occidentalis* occurring in open stands (less than 5% cover). *Artemisia
arbuscula* cover is about 7-22%. Individual plants of this species are
often concealed by surrounding bunch grasses. *Poa secunda* ranges
between 4-20% cover, while *Festuca idahoensis* and *Pseudoroegneria
spicata* range 0-40% and 0-50%, respectively. *Poa secunda* gains
importance at lower slopes with concave topography and with heavy
grazing.

**Classification Comments:** Hall (1973) and Johnson and Clausnitzer
(1992) describe a *Juniperus occidentalis - Artemisia arbuscula*
association that is equivalent to this.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis - Artemisia arbuscula* (Hall 1973) =

-   *Juniperus occidentalis - Artemisia arbuscula* (Johnson and
    Clausnitzer 1992) =

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia arbuscula/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** M.P. Murray **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 29-Mar-1999

**GReasons:** This is a very rare, and very restricted type. It occurs
in shallow scablands where sufficient moisture and basalt cracks allow
for the establishment of *Juniperus occidentalis*. Most known
occurrences are very small (2-10 ha). There about 20-25 sites known, so
overall area for this community is very limited. There are no known
protected occurrences. The junipers which dominate most sites are
extremely old. However, threats to most sites are fairly limited.
Grazing and fire exclusion may lead to an increase in juniper
establishment.

**Ranking Author:** M.P. Murray **Version:** 22-Mar-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known from the central Blue and Ochoco
mountains, and from the Steens Mountains in the northern Great Basin.
While not described, it might occur in extreme northeastern California
or along the northern Nevada border.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hall
1973, Hall 1978, Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL001717--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia arbuscula / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Dwarf Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-dwarf-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-102 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia arbuscula/Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, OR:S3S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Eckert 1957, Hall 1973, Hall 1978, Hopkins 1979a, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001718--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia rigida / Poa secunda* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Scabland Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-scabland-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-103 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J. Titus

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** In this association *Juniperus occidentalis* trees have low
cover and are scattered across the landscape and *Artemisia rigida*
cover ranges from 4-15% with low apparentness. However, in poor
condition sites *Artemisia rigida* cover increases to more than 25%.
*Purshia tridentata* occurs occasionally. *Poa secunda* is the dominant
grass. Other common herbs include *Festuca idahoensis* and
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*. On lower quality sites the non-native grass
*Bromus tectorum* is dominant. This association occurs on substrates of
lava, sedimentary and granitic origins in central and northeastern
Oregon.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia rigida/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G3 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** This association occurs in scattered locations across
central and northeastern Oregon. The environmental conditions necessary
for the occurrence of this association are not that rare. However,
grazing has greatly decreased the extent of this association, some
stands have been lost due to other forms of agricultural development.
Even light grazing destroys the cryptogamic crust and leads to invasion
by non-native species.

**Ranking Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 11-Sep-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is found in central and northeastern Oregon.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** OR:S2S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:C?, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hall
1973, Hall 1978, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001722--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata - Purshia tridentata* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Basin Big Sagebrush - Bitterbrush Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-basin-big-sagebrush---bitterbrush-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-104 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia tridentata-Purshia tridentata*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4Q **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, OR:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, M261G:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll 1964a, Driscoll
1964b, Driscoll et al. 1984, Segura-Bustamante 1970, Volland 1976,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001719--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata / Carex filifolia* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Basin Big Sagebrush / Threadleaf Sedge Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-basin-big-sagebrush-threadleaf-sedge-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Western Juniper / Big Sagebrush / Threadleaf Sedge* Classif. Resp.: West {#western-juniper-big-sagebrush-threadleaf-sedge-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid, mod. J. Titus

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** *Juniperus occidentalis* is the dominant tree in this
old-growth, relatively open woodland. There is a shrub-steppe type
understory which is dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* with *Purshia tridentata* as an occasional associate.
Grasses dominate the forb layer, with *Carex filifolia* composing more
than half of this cover. Other common associates include
*Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca idahoensis, Koeleria macrantha, Elymus
elymoides, Eriogonum microthecum*, and *Tetradymia canescens*. Areas in
good condition have high cover of mosses, especially under the
*Juniperus occidentalis* trees. Elevation ranges from 1250-1430 m. The
community is located on a broad ridgetop to plateau of rolling
topography, although most occurrences are on north-facing slopes. Most
precipitation occurs as snow, summers are warm and dry with 1-4 months
without rain. Soils are sandy-textured and developed in 30-60 cm of
aerially deposited pumice over well-cracked Columbia basalt bedrock.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia tridentata/Carex filifolia*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs within the western juniper zone
of central Oregon, which is the most xeric of the tree-dominated regions
of the Pacific Northwest. Average annual precipitation in this region is
from 8 to 13 inches, with most occurring as snow during the cool winter.
Summers are hot and dry.

The association occurs from 4100 to 4700 feet elevation on the rolling
topography of a ridge which rises above the surrounding plateau. Because
of its higher elevation, this ridge receives slightly higher annual and
summer precipitation than other areas within the western juniper zone.
Columbia River basalts underlie the region. Soils are derived from 12 to
24 inches of aerially deposited pumice over well-cracked basalt bedrock.
Textures are sandy loams, organic matter is low, and lower portions of
the profiles often have white calcareous or siliceous deposits. The soil
surface is bare of litter and is covered by fine pumice gravel.

**Vegetation:** This is a wooded grassland (savanna) association, with a
moderately sparse tree layer and a sparse shrub layer. The tree layer
consists of an open canopy of the needle-leaved evergreen *Juniperus
occidentalis*, with cover between 10% and 25%. Seedlings and saplings
are present. The shrub layer is dominated by the microphyllous evergreen
*Artemisia tridentata*, with occasional associated species such as
*Purshia tridentata, Tetradymia glabrata* and *Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus*. Total shrub cover is less than 20%. The herbaceous layer
is dominated by the perennial sedge *Carex filifolia* and the bunchgrass
*Festuca idahoensis*. Other perennial grasses commonly present include
*Pseudoroegneria spicata, Elymus elymoides, Koeleria macrantha*, and
*Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)*. Common perennial forbs
include *Packera cana (= Senecio canus), Erigeron filifolius, Astragalus
curvicarpus*, and the suffrutescent *Eriogonum umbellatum*. The annual
forbs *Collinsia parviflora* and *Linanthus septentrionalis* are also
commonly present. Total herbaceous cover is greater than 25%, but the
average is not known.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** Western juniper appears to affect distribution of
other plant species. For example, within the root and crown zone of
junipers, *Festuca idahoensis* becomes dominant, to the near exclusion
of *Artemisia tridentata* and *Carex filifolia*. The latter species is
apparently sensitive to grazing; the dominance of it on the Horse Ridge
RNA is an indication of minimal livestock disturbance on this site.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid, mod. J. Titus **Version:**
28-Sep-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** The range of this association is limited, restricted to a
small area in and around Horse Ridge Natural Research Area southeast of
Bend, in the High Lava Plains section of the Columbia Plateau ecoregion.
This type probably was never widespread. It has declined as a result of
some recent development, and overgrazing has degraded some areas, but it
is almost as widespread now as it has ever been. Although a large
percentage of the area occupied by this association is in the Horse
Ridge Research Natural Area, the small area and small number of EOs
makes this association a G1. Cattle grazing (which is allowed on BLM
RNAs) and ORV use threaten this association.

**Ranking Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 2-Oct-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The range of this association is limited, restricted to a
small area in and around Horse Ridge Natural Research Area southeast of
Bend, in the High Lava Plains section of the Columbia Plateau ecoregion.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** OR:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342H:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Franklin and Dyrness 1973, Franklin et al. 1972, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL001720--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Basin Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-basin-big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-105 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia tridentata/Festuca idahoensis*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, OR:S3, WA:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll 1964a, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Eckert 1957, Hall 1973, Hall 1978, Hopkins 1979a, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001721--*Juniperus occidentalis / Artemisia tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Western Juniper / Basin Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Wooded Herbaceous Vegetation {#western-juniper-basin-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-wooded-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-106 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Western Juniper Woodland and Savanna (CES304.082)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Juniperus occidentalis/Artemisia tridentata/Pseudoroegneria
    spicata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.1.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, OR:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342H:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dealy 1978, Driscoll
1964a, Driscoll et al. 1984, Eckert 1957, Hall 1973, Hopkins 1979a,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

## V.A.7.N.e. Medium-tall temperate or subpolar grassland with a sparse needle-leaved or microphyllous evergreen shrub layer

### A.1566--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Dwarf Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#dwarf-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This widespread shrub herbaceous alliance is known from
cold, dry areas of the Intermountain West, as well as in dry alpine and
subalpine habitats of the Sierra Nevada. Perennial grasses are prominent
with *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* dominating the open to
moderately dense low-shrub layer. Stands typically occur on shallow,
rocky, poorly drained soils on a variety of landforms; from flats and
depressions to slopes, ridges or alpine fell-fields. Soils are usually
shallow, rocky clays, often with an impenetrable layer at less than 60
cm depth. Poor drainage often leads to perched water tables in the
spring, which may control the distribution of the vegetation in this
alliance and explain its patchy distribution. The vegetation is
characterized by a moderate to dense herbaceous layer dominated by
perennial graminoids. Dominant to common grass species include
*Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana), Festuca idahoensis,
Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa secunda,
Pseudoroegneria spicata*, and *Elymus elymoides* (in areas in poor
condition). *Agoseris glauca, Allium* spp., *Antennaria rosea,
Balsamorhiza sagittata, Castilleja angustifolia, Phlox hoodii*, and
*Phlox longifolia* are common forbs species. Shrub associates include
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana, Artemisia nova, Chrysothamnus* spp., *Ephedra viridis,
Gutierrezia sarothrae, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus osteosperma,
Purshia tridentata*, and *Tetradymia canescens*. Diagnostic of this
alliance is a moderate (\>20% cover) perennial graminoid layer with an
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*-dominated low-shrub layer that has
10-40% cover. At least 40% of the total shrub cover is *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*.

**Classification Comments:** This widespread alliance is poorly
documented in northern Nevada, and additional fieldwork is needed there.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance (A.2548)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2552)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance (A.2549)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2553)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other *Artemisia arbuscula* alliances by the nominal
subspecies of *Artemisia arbuscula* and by the importance of the
perennial graminoid layer (\>20% cover) in the shrub herbaceous
alliances. The *Artemisia arbuscula* subspecies are distinguished by the
nominal subspecies taxonomically and by different environments which
they occupy. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance
(A.2548) occurs in more alkali and less stony settings than *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547). *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.2553) occurs in
more calcareous soils and has a restricted distribution. Beetle and
Johnson (1982) report that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* grows in
soils with a high volume of gravel (even though soil may be in clay
textural class, or contain a clay-rich layer that impedes drainage), and
that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* grows in clay soils, often
alkaline, that contain no gravels.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #406 - Low Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is widespread in the Intermountain West,
as well as in dry alpine habitats of the Sierra Nevada between 1500 and
3800 m in elevation. Precipitation ranges from 15-50 (-150) cm annually,
with a large proportion falling as winter snow. Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf
(1995) report *Artemisia arbuscula* shrublands to be associated with
flats, depressions, slopes, and ridges, and that soils are either very
shallow or quite poorly drained. Soils are usually shallow, rocky clays,
often with an impenetrable layer at less than 60 cm depth. Poor drainage
often leads to elevated water tables in the spring, which may control
the distribution of the vegetation in this alliance. Poor drainage may
explain the occurrence of patches of *Artemisia arbuscula* shrublands in
*Pinus ponderosa* woodlands or *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands. In
alpine settings, the vegetation often occurs in xeric sites where snow
cover is blown off or lost to sublimation. This low-shrub alliance may
also be adjacent to *Juniperus* or *Pinus* woodlands, *Artemisia nova*
shrublands, *Cercocarpus ledifolius* woodlands, or alpine fell-fields.
Beetle and Johnson (1982) report that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
arbuscula* grows in soils with a high volume of gravel (even though soil
may be in clay textural class, or contain a clay-rich layer that impedes
drainage), and that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* grows in clay
soils, often alkaline, that contain no gravels.

**Vegetation:** This widespread shrub herbaceous alliance is known from
cold, dry areas of the Intermountain West, as well as in dry alpine and
subalpine habitats of the Sierra Nevada. The vegetation is characterized
by a moderate to dense herbaceous layer dominated by perennial
graminoids with *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* dominating the open
to moderately dense low-shrub layer. Dominant to common grass species
include *Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana), Danthonia
californica, Festuca idahoensis, Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis,
Pascopyrum smithii, Poa secunda, Pseudoroegneria spicata*, and *Elymus
elymoides* (in areas in poor condition). Other grass species may include
*Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Bromus carinatus,
Danthonia unispicata, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Leymus
ambiguus*, and *Koeleria macrantha*. Forbs are generally much less
important, but occasionally frequent. Common species include *Achillea
millefolium, Agoseris glauca, Allium* spp., *Antennaria rosea,
Balsamorhiza sagittata, Castilleja angustifolia, Lupinus caespitosus,
Penstemon speciosus, Phlox hoodii, Phlox longifolia, Polygonum* spp.,
and *Stenotus acaulis (= Haplopappus acaulis)*. Shrub associates include
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana, Artemisia nova, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ephedra viridis,
Ericameria* spp., *Gutierrezia sarothrae, Juniperus occidentalis,
Juniperus osteosperma, Leptodactylon pungens, Purshia tridentata*, and
*Tetradymia canescens*. Diagnostic of this alliance is a moderate (\>20%
cover) perennial graminoid layer with an *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
arbuscula*-dominated low-shrub layer that has 10-40% cover. At least 40%
of the total shrub cover is *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*.

**Dynamics:** Due to the low-shrub stature of *Artemisia arbuscula*,
this dwarf-shrubland alliance is less susceptible to natural fire than
taller *Artemisia* spp. shrublands. Grazing appears to have little
effect on shrub densities, but tends to decrease the importance of tall
bunch grasses and increase the cover of *Chrysothamnus* spp., forbs, and
non-native grasses (*Poa bulbosa* and *Poa pratensis*). Heavy livestock
grazing may deplete the perennial graminoid layer and convert stands of
this alliance into stands of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*
Shrubland Alliance (A.2547).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The vegetation in this alliance is presently reported from
the northern half of the Intermountain West, from northern California,
Nevada, Utah, Wyoming north to Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. It is likely
that stands of the alliance occur nearly throughout the range of
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula*, but not likely in Colorado, New
Mexico, and Washington.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, CO, ID, MT, NM?, NV, OR, UT?, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313B:C?, 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342E:CC,
342G:CP, 342H:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC,
M331E:C?, M331F:C?, M332A:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Barbour and Major 1988, Beetle and Johnson 1982,
Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al. 1968b, Blackburn et al. 1969a,
Blackburn et al. 1969b, Blackburn et al. 1969c, Blackburn et al. 1969d,
Blackburn et al. 1971, Bowerman et al. 1997, Caicco and Wellner 1983c,
Caicco and Wellner 1983h, Chappell et al. 1997, Dealy 1971, Franklin and
Dyrness 1973, Hall 1973, Heinze et al. 1962, Hess and Wasser 1982,
Hironaka 1978, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a, Lewis 1975a,
McArthur and Welch 1986, Mozingo 1987, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Nelson
and Jensen 1987, Savage 1968, Schlatterer 1972, Schuller and Evans 1986,
Shiflet 1994, Soil Conservation Service 1978, Terwilliger and Smith
1978, Thilenius et al. 1995, Tiedemann and Klock 1977, Tisdale et al.
1965, Tweit and Houston 1980, Winward 1980a, Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL001518--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula - Purshia tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Dwarf Sagebrush - Bitterbrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass - Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#dwarf-sagebrush---bitterbrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass---idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-107 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J. Titus

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** *Artemisia arbuscula* and *Purshia tridentata* are the
dominant shrubs with *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus* and *Ericameria
nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)* being minor components. This
association usually occurs on side and toe slopes on north, northeastern
and eastern aspects at elevations from 4500-5000 feet. Slopes are gently
sloping to nearly level, ranging from 0-5%. Bare ground is 50-75% of
ground cover. Stones and gravel cover less than 10% of the surface.
Soils are moderately well-drained. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* and
*Festuca idahoensis* are the dominant grasses, with *Achnatherum
thurberianum, Elymus elymoides, Poa secunda, Koeleria macrantha* and the
non-native *Bromus tectorum* commonly found. Important forbs include
*Astragalus* sp., *Erigeron* sp., and *Lomatium triternatum*. The
*Chrysothamnus* species and *Bromus tectorum* increase with grazing
intensity. Normally in central Oregon, *Purshia tridentata* and
*Artemisia arbuscula* would not be growing together since *Purshia
tridentata* requires a considerably deeper and better drained soil than
does *Artemisia arbuscula*. Tests indicate that the two species are
growing on distinct microsites. *Artemisia arbuscula* grows in areas
that have a layer restrictive to roots approximately 15-20 inches deep,
and *Purshia tridentata* occurs on sites where this restrictive layer
does not occur. The scattered distribution of the two shrubs reflects an
underlying distribution of soil condition. Silica has been identified as
the major cementing agent that restricts drainage and root penetration
on the *Artemisia arbuscula* sites.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula-Purshia tridentata/Pseudoroegneria
    spicata-Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G3 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** This association is scattered infrequently across its
range. Most occurrences are small, although there are a few, large
occurrences (one at the Hart Mountain Wildlife Refuge, one in the Silver
Lake Deer Winter Range natural area). This association is ranked G2G3
because it occurs infrequently, as a result of an unusual requirement:
juxtaposition of two soil types. That is, soil with a silica hardpan,
and soil without, must occur scattered at a small enough scale so that
the two dominant shrubs can grow adjacently. High-quality examples of
this association are rare due to grazing impacts, although it has always
been limited in distribution. While it continues to be threatened by
overuse by livestock, it is less threatened than other shrub-steppe
types that can be farmed or planted with exotic grasses.

**Ranking Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 9-Sep-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is scattered infrequently across its range
which is south-central Oregon. It is sporadic because it requires the
juxtaposition of two different soil types, one with a silica hardpan and
one without.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:C?, 342H:CC, M242C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dealy 1971, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Segura-Bustamante 1970, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001413--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Achnatherum thurberianum* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Dwarf Sagebrush / Thurber\'s Needlegrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#dwarf-sagebrush-thurbers-needlegrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-108 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula/Stipa thurberiana* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4G5 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S4S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL001409--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Dwarf Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#dwarf-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-109 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This dwarf sagebrush shrub herbaceous association occurs
from 1525 to 2800 m (5000-9100 feet) elevation. It occurs on dry,
exposed moderate slopes, on undulating to rolling topography, lower
mountain toeslopes, inaccessible ridges, and on very steep canyon talus
slopes. Soils are shallow or moderately deep, from well- to moderately
well-developed. *Artemisia arbuscula* is the characteristic and
predominant low shrub, although it can be obscured by the grass cover.
Cover of the low shrub is scattered and open (8-30%). *Festuca
idahoensis* is the dominant understory grass (3-36% cover), with
*Pseudoroegneria spicata* usually present, but can often be absent
(0-25%). *Koeleria macrantha (= Koeleria cristata), Poa secunda (= Poa
sandbergii), Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)*, and
*Elymus elymoides (= Sitanion hystrix)* are typical co-occurring
grasses. Common forbs include *Phlox hoodii, Phlox longifolia,
Antennaria rosea, Crepis acuminata, Senecio integerrimus, Balsamorhiza*
ssp., *Eriogonum* spp., and *Erigeron compositus*.

**Classification Comments:** Physiognomy ranges from a grassland to a
shrubland.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Poa secunda* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001411)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Community (Blackburn et
    al. 1968b) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type (Hironaka et
    al. 1983) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type (Tweit and
    Houston 1980) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type (Mueggler
    and Stewart 1980) = *Artemisia arbuscula arbuscula / Festuca
    idahoensis* Habitat Type (Lewis 1975a) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   Low sagebrush complex (Lewis 1971) =

-   Low sagebrush-Bunchgrass SD-19-11(*Artemisia arbuscula - Agropyron -
    Festuca*) (4a) (Hall 1973) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This dwarf sagebrush shrub herbaceous association
occurs from 1525 to 2800 m (5000-9100 feet) elevation. It occurs on dry,
exposed moderate slopes, on undulating to rolling topography, lower
mountain toeslopes, inaccessible ridges, and on very steep canyon talus
slopes. Slope ranges from 2 to 70%. Soils are shallow or moderately
deep, from well- to moderately well-developed. Textures range from silt
loam to gravel loams. Often there is a claypan limiting the rooting
depth to 15-61 cm (6-24 inches).

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia arbuscula* is the characteristic and
predominant low shrub, although it can be obscured by the grass cover.
Cover of the low shrub is scattered and open (8-30%). *Festuca
idahoensis* is the dominant understory grass (3-36% cover), with
*Pseudoroegneria spicata* usually present, but can often be absent
(0-25%). *Koeleria macrantha (= Koeleria cristata), Poa secunda (= Poa
sandbergii), Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)*, and
*Elymus elymoides (= Sitanion hystrix)* are typical co-occurring
grasses. Common forbs include *Phlox hoodii, Phlox longifolia,
Antennaria rosea, Crepis acuminata, Senecio integerrimus, Balsamorhiza*
ssp., *Eriogonum* spp., and *Erigeron compositus*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula / Pseudoroegneria spicata Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001412)

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 13-Jul-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is common and widespread in the western
United States and is documented in Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana,
Nevada, Utah, Oregon, and Washington and possibly California.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, CO:S2?, ID:S4?, MT:S3, NV:S4S5, OR:S4, UT?, WA:S2?,
WY:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC,
M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332A:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC,
M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968b, Blackburn et al. 1969a,
Blackburn et al. 1969c, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al.
1984, Hall 1973, Hironaka et al. 1983, Lewis 1971, Lewis 1975a, Mueggler
and Stewart 1980, Sabinske 1978, Tweit and Houston 1980, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d., Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL001410--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Leymus salinus* ssp. *salmonis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Dwarf Sagebrush / Salmon Lyme Grass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#dwarf-sagebrush-salmon-lyme-grass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-110 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** The plant association is reported from the southern end of
the Lemhi Range, Idaho, within the Beaverhead Mountains ecoregional
section. The plant association occurs within a region of cool, arid
climatic conditions. The average annual precipitation is 10-12 inches.
The association occurs in lower slope positions, on relatively steep,
northwest-facing slopes, at 5200-6000 feet elevation, on limestone
parent materials. Soils are poorly developed, thin and rocky. Little
information is available regarding the structure and composition of this
association. The dwarf-shrub vegetation is dominated by *Artemisia
arbuscula*. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* and *Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis*
are codominant in the herbaceous layer and usually abundant, often
exceeding 50% cover. No additional information is available on the
species composition of the dwarf-shrub plant association.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula/Leymus ambiguus* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994)
    =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The region where the association occurs is to the east
of a major mountain mass which strongly affects the climate of the
region. The region is mountainous with high, massive ranges, dissected
by deep valleys. The topography is controlled by fault-block activity,
and much of the region has a linear basin and range topography typical
of the Great Basin. The valleys are broad and gentle. The high mountains
to the west create a rainshadow, allowing only occasional incursions of
moisture-laden winter storms from the Pacific. Average annual
precipitation is low, ranging from 7 inches in the valleys to roughly 45
inches at the highest elevations. There is a peak during May and June,
when convective showers are common, but winters are relatively dry.
Summers are cool, and winters cold.

This plant association occurs in the foothills zone on relatively steep
northwest-facing slopes, and where average annual precipitation is 10-12
inches. It probably occupies sites that are too dry for *Juniperus* to
become established. Elevations range from 5200 to approximately 6000
feet. All exposed bedrock is limestone, with some interbedding of sandy
limestone, and calcareous siltstone and sandstone. Soils are poorly
developed, thin and rocky.

**Vegetation:** Little information is available regarding the structure
and composition of this association. It is a shrub-dominated
association, with a dwarf-shrub layer of the evergreen *Artemisia
arbuscula*. The herbaceous layer is codominated by the bunchgrass
*Pseudoroegneria spicata* and by *Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis*, a
perennial grass species commonly considered a bunchgrass due to its
cespitose form, but which typically has rhizomes. This variety of grass
is endemic to east-central Idaho. Cover of the graminoid layer is
apparently high, roughly 50-60%. No other information is available on
species composition or cover.

**High-ranked species:** Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** Most vegetation in the southern Lemhi Range has been
severely impacted by grazing of domestic livestock, both sheep and
cattle. The location of the single occurrence of the association is a
valley with steep, rocky slopes where the impacts of past grazing are
light. The occurrence is in unusually good condition.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust **Version:**
8-Nov-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1G2Q **GRank Review Date:** 29-Oct-1997

**GReasons:** This naturally rare plant association occurs over a
relatively narrow geographic range. It is found occurs in the
southwestern region of the Bitterroot Mountains ecoregional section,
within east-central Idaho. The association occurs in lower slope
positions, on relatively steep northwest-facing slopes, at 5200 to 6000
feet elevation, on limestone parent materials. The association would be
protected in one proposed specially designated conservation site.
Appropriate inventory and monitoring work has not been completed to
provide information necessary to adequately understand and describe
current condition, trend, or threat. Quantitative stand composition and
environmental data are not available to verify that the association is a
discrete classification unit.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 29-Oct-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The plant association occurs within the southwestern region
of the Bitterroot Mountains ecoregional section, within east-central
Idaho. The association is described from the southwestern foothills of
the Lemhi Range, Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1S2

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983c,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001411--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Dwarf Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#dwarf-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-111 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001409)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S2?, ID:S4, NV:S4S5, OR:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, M242C:CC,
M261G:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al. 1968b,
Blackburn et al. 1969a, Blackburn et al. 1969b, Blackburn et al. 1969c,
Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Heinze et al. 1962,
Savage 1968, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001412--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Dwarf Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#dwarf-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-112 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** This association includes dwarf-shrublands
to grasslands and needs to be reviewed. Of the references listed below,
only two (Tiedemann and Klock 1977, Schuller and Evans 1986) where not
available to the Global description author. Available literature
indicates that this is a herbaceous shrubland, and no reference
indicated these were grasslands.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001519)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula - Agropyron - Festuca* SD-19-11 (Hall 1973) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula - Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type (Zamora and
    Tueller 1973) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Agropyron spicatum* Community Type (Jensen et
    al. 1988a) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Agropyron spicatum* Community Type (Jensen et
    al. 1988b) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type (Mueggler
    and Stewart 1980) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type (Hironaka et
    al. 1983) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type (Lewis
    1975a) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula / Poa secunda* Community Type (Blackburn et
    al. 1971) =

-   *Artemisia arbuscula/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This dwarf-shrubland occurs on foothills and open steep
slopes from 1400 to 2926 m (4500-9599 feet) in elevation. Slopes are
generally quite steep, 24% average, 37% maximum. Sites are generally
drier and warmer than sites occupied by other dwarf sagebrush
associations, often on southern and western aspects. Soils derived from
limestone can be quite stony and often have a calcareous cemented layer
that inhibits drainage. Soils derived from rhyolitic or basalt can have
high clay contents that can form a claypan that also inhibits internal
drainage. Soil depths ranged from 47-99 cm with an average of 73 cm in
one study from northeastern Nevada. The soil surface is generally
gravelly with up to 50% open bare gravelly soils. Soils have been
classified as Argixerolls, Typic Haploxerolls and Mollic Haplargids.
With increased moisture, this association will grade into *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation (CEGL001409).

**Vegetation:** This is a montane dwarf-shrub steppe association
dominated by *Artemisia arbuscula*. *Artemisia nova, Artemisia
tridentata*, or *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus* may also be present,
adding to the shrubby aspect of this type. Shrubs can be widely spaced,
and there is equal to greater cover provided by the herbaceous cover.
Shrub cover ranges from 7-20%. Herbaceous cover ranges from 20-30%
cover. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* is the dominant grass. *Koeleria
cristata, Poa secunda*, and *Poa fenderliana* are commonly also present.
*Poa secunda* and *Poa fendleriana* can even replace *Pseudoroegneria
spicata* in some sites. Forbs are less abundant but can include *Phlox
hoodii, Linum perenne, Sedum lanceolatum, Eriogonum umbellatum*, and
*Arenaria congesta*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula / Festuca idahoensis Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001409)

**Adjacent Association Comments:** With increased moisture, this
association will grade into *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula /
Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001409).

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 19-Aug-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known from central Oregon, southeastern
Washington, northeastern Nevada, southeastern Idaho, western Wyoming,
and southeastern Montana.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S3, MT:S3, NM?, NV:S4S5, OR:S3, WA:S2, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313B:C?, 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC,
M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331E:C?, M331F:C?, M332E:CC,
M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1971, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hall 1973, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al.
1988a, Jensen et al. 1988b, Lewis 1975a, Mueggler and Stewart 1980,
Schuller and Evans 1986, Tiedemann and Klock 1977, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d., Zamora and Tueller 1973

### A.2552--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Alkali Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#alkali-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrub herbaceous alliance occurs in the Intermountain
West, into the southern Rocky Mountains and in the western Great Plains.
Perennial grasses are prominent with *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longiloba* dominating the open to moderately dense low-shrub layer.
Stands occur on a variety of landforms, from flats and depressions to
slopes and ridges. Soils are generally characterized by a heavy clay
subsoil occurring within 25 cm of the soil surface, which restricts
rooting depth. Soils are also alkaline and calcareous. The vegetation is
characterized by a moderate to dense herbaceous layer dominated by
perennial graminoids. Dominant to common grass species include
*Danthonia parryi, Elymus lanceolatus, Festuca idahoensis, Festuca
thurberi, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa secunda*, and *Pseudoroegneria
spicata*. Other perennial grasses that may be present include
*Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Elymus elymoides,
Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Koeleria macrantha*. Forb
cover is typically minor. Shrub associates include *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Artemisia
tripartita, Artemisia nova, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Gutierrezia
sarothrae*, and *Purshia tridentata*. Diagnostic of this alliance is a
moderate (\>20% cover) perennial graminoid layer with an *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. longiloba*-dominated low-shrub layer that has 10-40%
cover. At least 40% of the total shrub cover is *Artemisia arbuscula
ssp. arbuscula*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1566)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance (A.2548)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance (A.2549)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2553)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other *Artemisia arbuscula* alliances by the nominal
subspecies of *Artemisia arbuscula* and by the importance of the
perennial graminoid layer (\>20% cover) in the shrub herbaceous
alliances. The *Artemisia arbuscula* subspecies are distinguished by the
nominal subspecies taxonomically and by different environments which
they occupy. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* Shrubland Alliance
(A.2549) occurs in more alkaline and less stony settings than *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547). *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.2553) occurs in
more calcareous soils and has a restricted distribution. Beetle and
Johnson (1982) report that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* grows in
soils with a high volume of gravel (even though soil may be in clay
textural class, or contain a clay-rich layer that impedes drainage), and
that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* grows in clay soils, often
alkaline, that contain no gravels.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #406 - Low Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This shrub herbaceous alliance occurs in the
Intermountain West, into the southern Rocky Mountains and in the western
Great Plains from 1600-3200 m (5500-10,600 feet). Stands occur on
variety of landforms, from flats and depressions to slopes and ridges.
Soils are generally characterized by a heavy clay subsoil occurring
within 25 cm of the soil surface, which restricts rooting depth. Soils
are also alkaline and calcareous. Beetle and Johnson (1982) report that
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* grows in soils with a high volume
of gravel (even though soil may be in clay textural class, or contain a
clay-rich layer that impedes drainage), and that *Artemisia arbuscula
ssp. longiloba* grows in clay soils, often alkaline, that contain no
gravels.

**Vegetation:** This shrub herbaceous alliance occurs in the
Intermountain West, into the southern Rocky Mountains and in the western
Great Plains. The vegetation is characterized by a moderate to dense
herbaceous layer dominated by perennial graminoids (\>20% cover) with
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* dominating the open to moderately
dense (10-40% cover) low-shrub layer. Dominant to common grass species
include *Danthonia parryi, Elymus lanceolatus, Festuca idahoensis,
Festuca thurberi, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa secunda*, and *Pseudoroegneria
spicata*. Other perennial grasses that may be present include
*Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Elymus elymoides,
Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Koeleria macrantha*. Forb
cover is typically minor. Shrub associates include *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Artemisia
tripartita, Artemisia nova, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Gutierrezia
sarothrae*, and *Purshia tridentata*. Diagnostic of this alliance is a
moderate (\>20% cover) perennial graminoid layer with an *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. longiloba*-dominated low-shrub layer that has 10-40%
cover. At least 40% of the total shrub cover is *Artemisia arbuscula
ssp. arbuscula*.

**Dynamics:** Due to the low-shrub stature of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longiloba*, this shrubland alliance is less susceptible to natural fire
than taller *Artemisia* spp. shrublands. Grazing appears to have little
effect on shrub densities, but tends to decrease the importance of tall
bunch grasses and increase the cover of *Arenaria congesta* (Johnston
2001). Heavy livestock grazing may deplete the perennial graminoid layer
and convert stands of this alliance into stands of *Artemisia arbuscula
ssp. longiloba* Shrubland Alliance (A.2549).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Fairly widespread in the western United States, occurring
from the Intermountain Region, into the southern Rocky Mountains and in
the western Great Plains.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331H:??, 331I:??, 332E:??, 342B:CC, 342C:CC,
342D:CC, 342E:CC, 342F:CP, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332A:CC, M332D:CC,
M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Beetle and Johnson 1982, Blackburn et al. 1968b,
Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983h, Cooper et al.
1999, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a,
Jensen et al. 1992, Johnston 2001, Lewis 1975a, Mueggler and Stewart
1980, Schlatterer 1972, Shiflet 1994, Soil Conservation Service 1978,
Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Tisdale et al. 1965, Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL001522--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Alkali Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#alkali-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-113 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association occurs in scattered locations from
southeastern Oregon to Montana, northern Nevada and probably Wyoming.
The association occurs on gentle, lower-slope and basin positions at
1650-1890 m (5400-6200 feet) elevation. It is restricted to rocky,
claypan soils. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* forms an open
low-shrub canopy. *Festuca idahoensis* and *Poa secunda* are
well-represented to abundant. Commonly associated forbs include
*Mertensia longiflora, Antennaria stenophylla, Ionactis alpina (= Aster
scopulorum), Allium acuminatum*, and *Arabis holboellii*.

**Classification Comments:** Hironaka et al. (1983) and Zamora and
Tueller (1973) describe the association from Idaho and Nevada. The
association is well-documented as well on the Owyhee Plateau in
southwestern Idaho.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia longiloba/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 29-Jan-2001

**GReasons:** This moderately widespread association occurs with
relatively few, widely distributed, small occurrences. The association
occurs on gentle, lower-slope and basin positions and is restricted to
claypan soils. Stands of the association are naturally protected to a
limited degree at some sites due to the placement and abundance of
cobbles and stones or their location on inaccessible mesa tops. The
abundance of *Festuca idahoensis* and close proximity to seasonal water
make these sites attractive to livestock. Though a proportion of the
inventoried stands are in a high quality, representative condition, the
number, size, and condition of occurrences rangewide are declining. The
global rarity rank is changed from G3? to G3 after review of rangewide
element occurrence condition and threats.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 29-Jan-2001

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This plant association occurs in scattered locations from
southeastern Oregon to Montana, northern Nevada and probably Wyoming.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1, MT:S2, NV:S3, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC,
M332A:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983h,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a,
Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Schlatterer 1972, Tisdale et al. 1965,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL001415--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Alkali Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#alkali-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-114 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia longiloba/Pascopyrum smithii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GU **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:SU, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342E:CC, 342F:CP

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Soil
Conservation Service 1978, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001523--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Alkali Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#alkali-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-115 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This low-shrub association is found between 1600 and 2600 m
(5250-8530 feet) elevation in southwestern Idaho, north-central
Colorado, and northeastern Nevada. It is located on gentle to moderate
slopes, ridges, and basin bottoms of northerly and southeasterly
aspects. Soils tend to be a heavy clay loam. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
longiloba* dominates the shrub overstory. Traces to low coverage of
*Purshia tridentata, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*, and *Ericameria
nauseosa* may also be present. *Elymus elymoides* and *Festuca
idahoensis* are consistently present with *Poa secunda*. Common forbs
include *Allium acuminatum, Eriogonum caespitosum*, and *Phlox hoodii*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia longiloba / Poa secunda* Habitat Type (Tiedemann et
    al. 1987) B

-   *Artemisia longiloba/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia longiloba* Habitat Type (Zamora and Tueller 1973) B
    DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** Western Ecology Group **Version:** 17-May-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3Q **GRank Review Date:** 26-Feb-2004

**GReasons:** This low-shrub habitat is found in southwestern Idaho
(Owyhee Plateau ), north-central Colorado (Middle Park), and
northeastern Nevada (Elko County). However, the number of documented and
predicted occurrences is low (less than 50). Stands are located
predominately on northerly and southeasterly aspects of gentle to
moderate slopes, ridges, and basin bottoms between 1600 and 2600 m
(5250-8500 feet) elevation. Soils tend to be a heavy clay loam. Stands
are increasingly threatened by the introduction of exotic species,
intensive range management, ORV use, and the alteration of fire
disturbance regimes.

**Ranking Author:** J.J. Miller **Version:** 17-May-2004

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This low-shrub association is found on the Owyhee Plateau in
southwestern Idaho, north-central Colorado (Middle Park), and
northeastern Nevada (Elko County). It is also believed to be present to
fairly common in the southwestern quarter of Wyoming.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:SU, ID, NV:S3?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:P, 11:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968b, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Tiedemann et al. 1987, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d., Zamora and Tueller 1973

#### CEGL001416--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Alkali Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#alkali-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-116 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Columbia Plateau Low Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.080)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia longiloba/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:SU, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342:?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.2553--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Thermopola Dwarf Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#thermopola-dwarf-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrub herbaceous alliance is described for the
mountainous regions of the southern portion of the Challis Volcanics
ecoregional section in central Idaho. Stands are found on gently sloped
ridgetops and benches at 1830 to 2690 m (6000-8800 feet) elevation.
Soils are typically poorly drained or subject to a lengthy period of
saturation during spring. Stand structure and composition have not been
studied in detail. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola* is the dominant
shrub species and occurs with abundant cover of *Festuca idahoensis*.
*Poa secunda* and *Elymus elymoides* are also usually present. *Carex
elynoides* is important in high-elevation stands reported from one site.
A variety of perennial forbs are usually present. These species are
characteristic of rocky sites at moderate to high elevations in the
mountains, including *Erigeron compositus, Antennaria rosea, Phlox
hoodii, Cymopterus nivalis (= Cymopterus bipinnatus), Eriogonum
umbellatum*, and *Lewisia rediviva*. Diagnostic of this alliance is a
moderate (\>20% cover) perennial graminoid layer with an *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. thermopola*-dominated low-shrub layer that has 10-40%
cover.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1566)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance (A.2548)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2552)

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *longiloba* Shrubland Alliance (A.2549)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other *Artemisia arbuscula* alliances by the nominal
subspecies of *Artemisia arbuscula* and by the importance of the
perennial graminoid layer (\>20% cover) in the shrub herbaceous
alliances. The *Artemisia arbuscula* subspecies are distinguished by the
nominal subspecies taxonomically and by different environments which
they occupy. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longicaulis* Shrubland Alliance
(A.2548) occurs in more alkaline and less stony settings than *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* Shrubland Alliance (A.2547). *Artemisia
arbuscula ssp. thermopola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.2553) occurs in
more calcareous soils and has a restricted distribution. Beetle and
Johnson (1982) report that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. arbuscula* grows in
soils with a high volume of gravel (even though soil may be in clay
textural class, or contain a clay-rich layer that impedes drainage), and
that *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. longiloba* grows in clay soils, often
alkaline, that contain no gravels.

**Related Concepts:**

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) ?

-   SRM Cover Type #406 - Low Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is found in a mountainous region, from
1830 to 2690 m (6000-8800 feet) elevation, generally on relatively flat
benches and rocky ridgetops with slopes of 10-15% or less. One stand was
found at 9800 feet. Parent materials are glacial outwash and dry
alluvial terraces, derived from volcanic, sedimentary and granitic
rocks. The association can also occur on glaciated ridges. Soils are
typically poorly drained or subject to a lengthy period of saturation
during spring, and typically have strongly developed clay horizons in
the profile. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola* is apparently
restricted to relatively high-elevation sites, usually within forest
openings.

**Vegetation:** This is a poorly described alliance dominated by the
perennial bunchgrass *Festuca idahoensis* with a low, evergreen shrub
layer of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola* (cover information not
available). Several other bunchgrass species are commonly present,
including *Poa secunda* and *Elymus elymoides*. Higher elevation stands
may have the perennial sedge *Carex elynoides* as an associated species.
No other shrubs are described to occur in the shrub layer. A variety of
perennial forbs are usually present, most of them characteristic of
rocky sites at moderate to high elevations in the mountains. These
include *Erigeron compositus, Antennaria rosea, Phlox hoodii, Cymopterus
nivalis (= Cymopterus bipinnatus), Eriogonum umbellatum*, and *Lewisia
rediviva*. Diagnostic of this alliance is a moderate (\>20% cover)
perennial graminoid layer with an *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
thermopola*-dominated low-shrub layer that has 10-40% cover.

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The alliance is expected to occur in the Pioneer, Boulder,
Sawtooth and White Cloud mountains of central Idaho. The range of the
alliance has not been determined precisely.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:P, 8:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, M331A:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Beetle and Johnson 1982, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hironaka
et al. 1983, Schlatterer 1972, Shiflet 1994

#### CEGL001519--*Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *thermopola / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Thermopola Dwarf Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#thermopola-dwarf-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Thermopola Dwarf Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue* Classif. Resp.: West {#thermopola-dwarf-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association is described for the mountainous
regions of the southern portion of the Challis Volcanics ecoregional
section in central Idaho. The association is found on gently sloped
ridgetops and benches at 6000-8800 (9800) feet elevation. Soils are
typically poorly drained or subject to a lengthy period of saturation
during spring. Stand structure and composition has not been studied in
detail. *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola* is the dominant shrub
species and occurs with abundant cover of *Festuca idahoensis*. *Poa
secunda* and *Elymus elymoides* are also usually present. *Carex
elynoides* is important in high elevation stands reported from one site.
A variety of perennial forbs are usually present. These species are
characteristic of rocky sites at moderate to high elevations in the
mountains, including *Erigeron compositus, Antennaria rosea, Phlox
hoodii, Cymopterus nivalis (= Cymopterus bipinnatus), Eriogonum
umbellatum*, and *Lewisia rediviva*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula* ssp. *arbuscula / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001412)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association is found in a mountainous region, from
6000-8800 feet elevation, generally on relatively flat benches and rocky
ridgetops with slopes of 10-15% or less. One stand was found at 9800
feet. Parent materials are glacial outwash and dry alluvial terraces,
derived from volcanic, sedimentary and granitic rocks. The association
can also occur on glaciated ridges. Soils are typically poorly drained
or subject to a lengthy period of saturation during spring, and
typically have strongly developed clay horizons in the profile.
*Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola* is apparently restricted to
relatively high-elevation sites, usually within forest openings.

**Vegetation:** This is a poorly described grassland association,
dominated by the perennial bunchgrass *Festuca idahoensis* (average
cover not available). Several other bunchgrass species are commonly
present, including *Poa secunda* and *Elymus elymoides*. Higher
elevation stands may have the perennial sedge *Carex elynoides* as an
associated species. There is a dwarf-shrub layer present (cover
unavailable) of the dwarf evergreen *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
thermopola*. No other shrubs are described to occur. A variety of
perennial forbs are usually present, most of them characteristic of
rocky sites at moderate to high elevations in the mountains. These
include *Erigeron compositus, Antennaria rosea, Phlox hoodii, Cymopterus
nivalis (= Cymopterus bipinnatus), Eriogonum umbellatum*, and *Lewisia
rediviva*.

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia arbuscula ssp. thermopola (G5T3Q)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** This is similar to *Artemisia arbuscula /
Pseudoroegneria spicata* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001412)
but has a floristic component of species occurring at higher elevations.
Very little is known of the ecology of *Artemisia arbuscula ssp.
thermopola*. Due to relative ease of access, many stands of this
association have been severely disturbed.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust **Version:**
25-Aug-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** The association is reported from a limited distribution
within the mountains of central Idaho. The association occurs within
relatively specific physical environmental conditions, occurring from
6000 to 8800 feet elevation, on gentle (10 to 15 percent slope) alluvial
benches and glaciated ridgetops. Soils are poorly drained or subject to
a lengthy period of saturation during spring, and typically have
strongly developed clay horizons in the profile. *Artemisia arbuscula
ssp. thermopola* is apparently restricted to relatively high-elevation
sites, usually within forest openings. The number and ecological
condition of occurrences have not been determined through recent
appropriate surveys. Due to relative ease of access, many stands of this
association have been severely disturbed, and the extent of the
association has declined moderately due to mining and road construction
activities.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 20-Nov-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The association is expected to occur in the Pioneer, Boulder,
Sawtooth and White Cloud mountains of central Idaho. The range of the
association has not been determined precisely.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:?

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, M331A:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hironaka et al. 1983, Schlatterer 1972, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

### A.1531--*Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### (Bolander Silver Sagebrush, Mountain Silver Sagebrush) Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mountain-silver-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Midwest, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance occurs across the northern portions of the
Great Basin in Oregon and Idaho, and into southwestern Montana, as well
as the mountains of Nevada. Stands are found on inactive elevated stream
and river terraces and on upland areas with sandy soils. This vegetation
has a sparse shrub layer (\<25%) composed primarily of the
characteristic shrub *Artemisia cana (ssp. bolanderi* or *ssp.
viscidula)*, but *Artemisia tridentata* (usually *ssp. vaseyana* but
occasionally *ssp. tridentata*) are common in some stands. The
herbaceous layer is dominated by graminoids, generally with \>20% cover,
and often with more cover than the shrub layer. Important understory
associates include *Festuca idahoensis, Poa fendleriana ssp.
fendleriana, Poa cusickii, Muhlenbergia richardsonis, Elymus caninus,
Koeleria macrantha (= Koeleria nitida), Achnatherum occidentale, Carex
praegracilis*, and *Elymus trachycaulus*. Common exotic associates
include *Poa pratensis, Taraxacum officinale*, and *Agrostis
stolonifera*. Among the forbs that are typically found are *Achillea
millefolium, Symphyotrichum campestre var. bloomeri (= Aster campestris
var. bloomeri)*, and *Cirsium foliosum*. The vegetation in the alliance
includes non-wetland plant associations dominated by *Artemisia cana
ssp. bolanderi* or *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* with typically less
than 25% total shrub cover and an abundant herbaceous cover of medium
stature.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrubland
    Alliance (A.2557)

-   *Artemisia cana* Shrubland Alliance (A.827)

-   *Artemisia cana* Temporarily Flooded Shrubland Alliance (A.843)

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.2554)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** The vegetation in the *Artemisia cana
(ssp. bolanderi, ssp. viscidula)* Shrubland Alliance (A.2557) includes
plant associations dominated by *Artemisia cana (ssp. bolanderi* or
*ssp. viscidula)* with more than 25% total shrub cover and generally
less than 20% cover of perennial graminoids.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #408 - Other Sagebrush Types (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Plant associations in this alliance occur across the
northern portions of the Great Basin, and into southwestern Montana, as
well as the mountains of Nevada. Elevation ranges from 1200-3300 m
(4000-10,800 feet). Stands occur on soils with a seasonally high table
along low-gradient streams, in broad valleys, and in and around playas
(internally drained basins with seasonal flooding). At its highest
elevations, this alliance can be found in upland situations where more
favorable soil conditions exist. Precipitation varies across the range,
from less than 25 cm in semi-arid basins of southeastern Oregon, to over
90 cm in moist meadow habitats of the northern Rocky Mountains. There
are two environmental settings where the associations occur. One setting
is along inactive (higher) terraces of rivers and streams; the other is
in upland areas on sandy soils. Most commonly, the alliance occurs as an
upper terrace community along mountain streams, where soils are
saturated in spring and water tables remain within 0.5 m (2 feet) of the
soil surface in May and June. Topography is usually mild, soils are fine
to somewhat coarse alluvial soils, and some source of subsurface
moisture is often present. In Oregon, soils are deep, easily eroded
alluvium with surface textures of fine sandy to silty clay loams.
Available water-holding capacity is moderately high. Water tables are
within 2 feet of the soil surface in May and June, dropping to 4-5.5
feet below the soil surface in July through September. In Montana, some
stands occur on well-drained, often sandy, glacial drift and sandy
alluvium (Comer et al. 1999). Where herbaceous growth is vigorous and
decomposition rates are low due to a high water table, soils may develop
organic profiles.

**Vegetation:** The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1.5 m tall. Shrub canopy
cover is 10-60%. In most stands, *Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula* or
*Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi* will be the only dominant shrub,
although at higher elevations *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*
occasionally occurs, and in alkaline areas *Sarcobatus vermiculatus* may
be present. Important understory associates include *Festuca idahoensis,
Poa fendleriana ssp. fendleriana, Poa cusickii, Muhlenbergia
richardsonis, Elymus caninus, Koeleria macrantha (= Koeleria nitida),
Achnatherum occidentale, Carex praegracilis*, and *Elymus trachycaulus*.
Common exotic associates include *Poa pratensis, Taraxacum officinale*,
and *Agrostis stolonifera*. Among the forbs that are typically found are
*Achillea millefolium, Symphyotrichum campestre var. bloomeri (= Aster
campestris var. bloomeri)*, and *Cirsium foliosum*.

**Dynamics:** This alliance is often grazed by domestic livestock and is
strongly preferred during the growing season. Prolonged livestock use
can decrease the abundance of native bunch grasses and increase the
cover of shrubs and non-native grass species, such as *Poa pratensis*
and *Taraxacum officinale*. Unlike other *Artemisia* spp., *Artemisia
cana* resprouts vigorously following spring fire, and prescribed burning
may increase shrub cover. Conversely, fire in the fall may decrease
shrub abundance.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Associations in this alliance are found in eastern Oregon,
south into the Modoc Plateau and along the Sierra Nevada, across Nevada
east into Colorado and southwestern Montana. The alliance is not
reported from Wyoming, but is likely to occur in Utah.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 8:C, 11:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC,
M331A:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Chappell et al. 1997, Comer et al. 1999, Dealy 1971,
Franklin and Dyrness 1973, Hironaka et al. 1983, Kovalchik 1987, Manning
and Padgett 1995, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, ORNHP unpubl. data, Padgett
1982, Shiflet 1994, Winward 1980b

#### CEGL001549--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) - Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Poa cusickii* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation \[Provisional\]

#### (Bolander Silver Sagebrush, Mountain Silver Sagebrush) - Mountain Big Sagebrush / Cusick\'s Bluegrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mountain-silver-sagebrush---mountain-big-sagebrush-cusicks-bluegrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-117 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J.S. Kagan

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is a tall shrubland occurring on moist
playas or more commonly montane riparian benches (terraces) in the
northern portions of the southern Blue Mountains, Great Basin, Modoc
Plateau and eastern Cascades of Oregon, and potentially adjacent
California and Nevada. Soils are generally deep alluvium with surface
textures of fine sandy to silty clay loams. Water tables are high in May
and June (within 60 cm of the surface), but drop to 120-160 cm between
July and September. The shrub layer is codominated by both *Artemisia
cana* and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, although the type
includes some pure stands of *Artemisia cana*.

The characteristic feature of these benches is the dominance of *Poa
cusickii* or Cusick\'s bluegrass (formerly merged into *Poa fendleriana
ssp. fendleriana*). This species dominates all plots, but other grasses
and sedges can be found, including *Elymus caninus, Koeleria macrantha
(= Koeleria nitida), Achnatherum occidentale, Carex praegracilis*, and
*Muhlenbergia richardsonis*. Common forbs include *Symphyotrichum
campestre var. bloomeri (= Aster campestris var. bloomeri)* and
*Achillea millefolium*.

**Classification Comments:** As with most sagebrush communities, these
are poorly sampled. This type has been well inventoried and sampled in
Oregon, and is a distinct community. With additional plots from
California and Nevada, this type might get split. *Poa cusickii* and
*Artemisia cana* are found at middle elevations from British Columbia to
California and east to Colorado, so this type may be more widespread. It
is possible that with additional data, occurrences with *Artemisia cana*
could be split from those dominated by *Artemisia tridentata*. No
*Artemisia tridentata / Poa cusickii* communities have been described.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana-Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Poa cusickii*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J.S. Kagan **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 27-Oct-2000

**GReasons:** This community has only been described from south-central
Oregon, located in dry riparian and valley terraces that are heavily
impacted by cattle. In spite of occurring in a publicly owned landscape,
most occurrences are privately owned, and used to stage cattle use in
adjacent forest allotments. Two of the 8 known occurrences are
protected, but both are currently grazed by cattle (although a small
amount of this might be in one of the enclosures at Sycan Marsh). In
addition, most of the known occurrences are small. If this community is
found to be more common in northern Nevada or northeastern California,
the rank would become G3.

**Ranking Author:** J.S. Kagan **Version:** 27-Oct-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This community has only been described in Oregon, from
central Oregon in the Ochoco Mountains, and through the southern portion
of the eastern Cascades. A small occurrence was seen in the Jarbridge
Wilderness Area in northern Nevada. It is probably found elsewhere in
the northern Great Basin.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV?, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:C?, M242C:CC, M261G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Kartesz 1999, Kovalchik 1987, ORNHP unpubl. data, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001551--*Artemisia cana (*ssp. *bolanderi,* ssp. *viscidula) / Poa fendleriana* ssp. *fendleriana* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### (Bolander Silver Sagebrush, Mountain Silver Sagebrush) / Muttongrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mountain-silver-sagebrush-muttongrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-118 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J. Titus

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This community occurs on broad, low-gradient floodplains at
moderate to high elevations where it occurs on dry terraces and inactive
floodplains and on the dry margins of mid-elevation meadows. Elevations
range from 4400-5600 feet, and as high as 7000 feet in the Warner
Mountains. Soils are deep, easily eroded alluvium with surface textures
of fine sandy to silty clay loams. Available water-holding capacity is
moderately high. Water tables are within 2 feet of the soil surface in
May and June, dropping to 4-5.5 feet below the soil surface in July
through September. *Artemisia cana* is the dominant shrub. *Artemisia
tridentata* (usually *ssp. vaseyana* but occasionally *ssp. tridentata*)
is also common in some sites. *Poa fendleriana* is the dominant
herbaceous species. Other common herbaceous species include *Koeleria
macrantha, Elymus trachycaulus, Muhlenbergia richardsonis, Achnatherum
occidentale ssp. occidentale, Carex praegracilis, Achillea millefolium,
Symphyotrichum campestre var. bloomeri (= Aster campestris var.
bloomeri)*, and *Cirsium foliosum*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana/Poa cusickii* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** This association is known from about 20 montane meadows in
central and south-central Oregon. This association requires either
broad, low-gradient floodplains at moderate low elevations where it
occurs on dry terraces and inactive floodplains, or the dry margins of
mid-elevations meadows. It requires that the water table be within 2
feet of the soil surface in May and June. There are two small (less than
50 acre) occurrences, which are protected, while the remainder of the
occurrences are being degraded due to grazing and invasions by
non-native species. It has not been reported from adjacent states, but
small occurrences are possible in the mountain ranges of northeastern
California and possibly northwestern Nevada.

**Ranking Author:** J. Titus **Version:** 9-Oct-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is scattered across its range in
south-central Oregon, in the East Cascades ecoregion, and in the Ochoco
and Blue mountains in the Idaho Batholith ecoregion. It may possibly
extend south into the Modoc Plateau of California. The association is
scattered in occurrence because it requires broad, low-gradient
floodplains or dry margins of mid-elevation meadows.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA?, NV?, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dealy 1971, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Kovalchik 1987, ORNHP unpubl. data, Padgett 1982, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d., Winward 1980b

#### CEGL001743--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *bolanderi / Muhlenbergia richardsonis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Bolander Silver Sagebrush / Mat Muhly Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#bolander-silver-sagebrush-mat-muhly-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-119 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J. Kagan

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association occurs on playa bottoms and on moist sites
in valley bottoms in the northern Great Basin of southeastern Oregon,
northwestern California, extreme southwestern Idaho and northeastern
Nevada. It ranges between thick shrublands to open grasslands with
scattered shrubs. It has only been described from arid, closed basins,
although generally in areas with sufficient freshwater input to allow
*Artemisia cana* to grow. All stands are in vernally wet areas, with the
characteristics of intermountain vernal pools. *Artemisia cana ssp.
bolanderi* dominates the shrub layer of all sites, generally as the only
shrub present. *Artemisia tridentata* or less frequently *Sarcobatus
vermiculatus* are occasionally found in stands, generally occurring at
the margins of the communities. *Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi* cover
ranges from 5-60%, so that this type can be found as grasslands with
shrubs, steppe and most commonly as shrublands. The perennial grass
*Muhlenbergia richardsonis* comprises most of the understory.
Occasionally, *Puccinellia* spp., *Elymus* spp., *Poa secunda, Juncus
nevadensis, Juncus effusus*, or *Eleocharis* spp. are present. Often,
*Muhlenbergia richardsonis* forms a solid, short mat across the stands,
although in dry years or drier locations, alkaline playa (bare ground)
makes up to 40% of the cover.

**Classification Comments:** The successional status of this association
is not clear, since *Muhlenbergia richardsonis* tends to increase with
grazing. However, at least two stands are from areas that are rarely
grazed by cattle.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana/Muhlenbergia richardsonis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**High-ranked species:** Artemisia cana ssp. bolanderi (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 21-Oct-2002

**GReasons:** This association is somewhat restricted, occurring in
small, isolated stands along the northwestern edge of the northern Great
Basin. These are seasonal wetlands, but generally are not recognized as
wetland habitats. Only one site is known to be protected, and most occur
in a matrix of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* steppe. It is
likely that a number of occurrences have been converted to agriculture.
These areas are often heavily grazed, although the stands are fairly
robust and recover fairly quickly from disturbance. Given their limited
occurrences and the small size of most occurrences, it would be
considered a G2 type if it was more threatened. However, as most
remaining sites appear stable, threats are low enough, and it may be
more abundant than it appears, this should remain a G3 for now.

**Ranking Author:** J. Kagan **Version:** 21-Oct-2002

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This is a very local, but fairly widespread type. Currently,
the type is only known from widely distributed parts of the northern
Great Basin and the Snake River Plains in Oregon, Idaho, Nevada and
California.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S1, ID:S2, NV:S1, OR:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Dealy 1971, Driscoll et
al. 1984, Franklin and Dyrness 1973, Hironaka et al. 1983, Manning and
Padgett 1991, Manning and Padgett 1995, Moseley 1998, Western Ecology
Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001552--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Mountain Silver Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#mountain-silver-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Silver Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#silver-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Silver Sagebrush Seasonally Flooded Shrub-Steppe
    (CES304.084)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Deschampsia caespitosa* Shrubland
    (CEGL001074)

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *viscidula / Festuca thurberi* Shrubland
    (CEGL001071)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3? **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:SU, ID, MT:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC, M331A:CC, M332D:C?, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.,
Youngblood et al. 1985a

### A.2554--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Plains Silver Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#plains-silver-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, Midwest, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance consists of open prairie grasslands with a
shrub component. It is limited to the northern Great Plains, east of the
Continental Divide. It occurs on deep, well-drained spoils in and around
the breaklands, along stream terraces and floodplains, and small mesic
draws and swales that have escaped the plow. The shrub layer is
dominated by *Artemisia cana ssp. cana*. Shrub cover ranges from 0.5-1.5
m tall, and shrub canopy cover is 10-50%. On sandy uplands associated
graminoid species include *Calamovilfa longifolia, Hesperostipa comata,
Achnatherum hymenoides*, and *Bouteloua gracilis*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia cana* (ssp. *bolanderi*, ssp. *viscidula*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1531)

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #408 - Other Sagebrush Types (Shiflet 1994) B

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is found at elevation ranges from 3000 to
7200 feet. The alliance occurs on alluvial terraces and fans, draws, and
mesic swales, terraces and floodplains along streams of nearly any size,
where soils are deep and have low to moderate amounts of salts. On
uplands it occupies stabilized sand dunes, gently to steep slopes (up to
30%), and all manner of topography in the vicinity of breaklands. In all
settings the soils are deep and well-drained. Groundwater is frequently
replenished by intense summer rainstorms.

**Vegetation:** The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1.5 m tall, and shrub
canopy cover is 10-50%. Perennial graminoids generally have cover
greater than 20%. On sandy uplands associated graminoid species include
*Calamovilfa longifolia, Hesperostipa comata, Achnatherum hymenoides*,
and *Bouteloua gracilis*. Other graminoids species found on alluvial
soils include *Pascopyrum smithii, Nassella viridula, Koeleria
macrantha*, and *Bouteloua gracilis*. Common forbs can include *Achillea
millefolium* and *Artemisia ludoviciana*. Common exotic associates that
might be abundant in some stands include *Poa pratensis, Taraxacum
officinale, Bromus japonicus, Bromus tectorum*, and *Melilotus
officinalis*.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia cana ssp. cana* resprouts vigorously after fire
or mechanical treatment. During presettlement time, when fires were more
frequent, this alliance might not have attained even these shrub
densities.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is found east of the Continental Divide on the
Great Plains of Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, and
Nebraska. It is also known from Alberta, Canada.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** AB, MT, ND, SK?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C, 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331E:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342A:CC,
342F:CC, M332D:CP, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Devils Tower)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Comer et al. 1999,
DeVelice et al. 1991, DeVelice et al. 1995, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hansen
and Hoffman 1988, Hansen et al. 1984, Hansen et al. 1995, Jones and
Walford 1995, Shiflet 1994, Thilenius and Brown 1990, Thilenius et al.
1995, Warren n.d.

#### CEGL001555--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Calamovilfa longifolia* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Plains Silver Sagebrush / Prairie Sandreed Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#plains-silver-sagebrush-prairie-sandreed-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Silver Sagebrush / Prairie Sandreed Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#silver-sagebrush-prairie-sandreed-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** G.P. Jones

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Northwestern Great Plains Shrubland (CES303.662)

-   Western Great Plains Sand Prairie (CES303.670)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This upland vegetation type has been described from the
Cheyenne River Basin in northeastern Wyoming and has been reported from
the Powder River Basin in north-central Wyoming and from the Ferris
Mountains and Seminoe Mountains areas in central Wyoming. In all of
these areas, it occupies stabilized sand dunes. *Artemisia cana ssp.
cana* forms an open shrub layer to about 50 cm tall, which often
contains *Artemisia tridentata* and *Ericameria* spp. (= *Chrysothamnus*
spp.) as well. Common herbaceous species are Calamovilfa longifolia,
Hesperostipa comata, *Cryptantha* spp., and *Eriogonum* spp., and other
plants (especially *Bouteloua gracilis, Pascopyrum smithii*, and
*Andropogon hallii*) may be conspicuous and contribute substantial
cover. *Bromus tectorum* and other exotics may be common.

**Classification Comments:** Information on the composition and
structure of this association seems to be limited. A summary table with
quantitative (though incomplete) information has been published for 6
stands in the Cheyenne River Basin. Only species lists or anecdotal
information are available for the other areas in Wyoming where the
association is thought to occur on the sands range site. Consequently
the association is only poorly known. Its relationship to *Artemisia
cana ssp. cana / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
(CEGL001553) is particularly unclear. The two would seem to differ in
the relative amounts of *Calamovilfa longifolia* and *Hesperostipa
comata* present, but both species occur in both of the associations, and
the diagnostic differences between the two associations is unclear.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001553)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana ssp. cana/Calamovilfa longifolia* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G.P. Jones **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3Q **GRank Review Date:** 27-Nov-2000

**GReasons:** The information available on this association suggests
that it is found only on sand dunes, a habitat that may be widespread
but that occurs primarily in small patches. Consequently, stands of this
association are assumed to be uncommon within a large geographic area.
This association is so poorly known, however, that the rank is uncertain
and the syntaxonomy questionable. This association could be more common
because the dominant species, *Artemisia cana ssp. cana* and
*Calamovilfa longifolia*, both are widespread in the Great Plains. In
addition, the relationship between this association and *Artemisia cana
ssp. cana / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
(CEGL001553) is particularly unclear because both *Calamovilfa
longifolia* and *Hesperostipa comata* can occur in either association.

**Ranking Author:** G. Jones **Version:** 27-Nov-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This upland vegetation type has been described from the
Cheyenne River Basin in northeastern Wyoming and has been reported from
the Powder River Basin in north-central Wyoming and from the Ferris
Mountains and Seminoe Mountains areas in central Wyoming. *Artemisia
cana ssp. cana* and *Calamovilfa longifolia* both are widespread in the
Great Plains, so this association may well extend beyond the areas of
Wyoming where it is now thought to occur.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Thilenius and Brown 1990, Thilenius et al. 1995, WYNDD unpubl. data,
Warren n.d., Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001553--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Plains Silver Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#plains-silver-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Silver Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#silver-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
Canada, Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.V. Cooper and C. Jean

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Northwestern Great Plains Shrubland (CES303.662)

-   Western Great Plains Sand Prairie (CES303.670)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrub prairie association, which generally occurs in
small patches (less than 1 hectare), occurs in the northwestern Great
Plains. In Montana, it is found on benches to gently inclined slopes
(30% maximum recorded) in the vicinity of breaklands. Similar habitats
(old river terraces, badlands, ravine sideslopes and valley walls)
support its occurrence in Alberta. Sites occur on various parent
materials, but mostly well-drained, often sandy, glacial drift and sandy
alluvium. *Artemisia cana* is decidedly the dominant shrub with canopy
coverages to 50%, but averaging around 25%, which places it on the cusp
of being a true shrub type. *Artemisia frigida* is the only
shrub/subshrub with greater than 50% constancy and its cover does not
exceed 3%. A number of graminoids have high constancy, including
*Bouteloua gracilis, Carex filifolia, Koeleria macrantha*, and *Poa
secunda (= Poa sandbergii)*, but only *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata)* exhibits both 100% constancy and the highest cover values
(averaging 38%). Forbs constitute an insignificant component, virtually
none occurring in greater than trace amounts. Those exceeding 50%
constancy are *Sphaeralcea coccinea, Pediomelum argophyllum (= Psoralea
argophylla)*, and *Gaura coccinea*. This association is hypothesized to
represent the driest environment capable of supporting *Artemisia cana*.
Occasional fire probably has reduced *Artemisia* spp. cover and density
to low levels and maintains the shrub herbaceous community structure.

**Classification Comments:** In their vegetation key to this type,
DeVelice et al. (1995) allow for the occasional dominance of *Bouteloua
gracilis* and/or *Calamovilfa longifolia*, in lieu of *Hesperostipa
comata (= Stipa comata)* (which is by far the usual case), to be
indicative of the association. The cover of *Artemisia cana* ranges
widely, spanning the values defining shrub herbaceous and shrubland
categories. The type is described as shrub herbaceous because the
preponderance of stands had cover of less than 25%, though the average
cover just exceeded this value. This type could probably be combined
with *Artemisia cana ssp. cana / Calamovilfa longifolia* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001555) without compromising the ecological
information embedded in either type. This type is less moist than the
*Artemisia cana ssp. cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation (CEGL001556), which contains rhizomatous wheatgrasses and/or
*Nassella viridula* as dominants. In Wyoming\'s Cheyenne River Basin,
stands of *Artemisia cana / Bouteloua gracilis - Calamovilfa longifolia*
Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (not in USNVC) (renamed *Artemisia cana ssp.
cana / Calamovilfa longifolia* association by Thilenius et al. (1995),
G.P. Jones pers. comm.) occur on well-drained sand dunes and lack, or
have low coverages of, *Pascopyrum smithii*, but support *Hesperostipa
comata* as 100% constant; *Hesperostipa comata* coverages approach those
of the named diagnostic grasses. At least two plots of the this
association (CEGL001553) having *Calamovilfa longifolia* dominant could
be allocated to (CEGL001555).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Calamovilfa longifolia* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001555)

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001556)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana - Stipa comata* community type (DeVelice et
    al. 1995) =

-   *Artemisia cana / Bouteloua gracilis - Calamovilfa longifolia*
    (Thilenius et al. 1995) B

-   *Artemisia cana/Stipa comata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This type is found on benches to gently inclined slopes
(30% maximum recorded value) of rolling prairie, steeper ravine slopes,
and all manner of topography in the vicinity of breaklands. It occurs on
various parent materials but mostly well-drained, often sandy, glacial
drift. The ground cover is highly variable with some sites (putatively
overgrazed) having a sward of *Selaginella densa* and lichens, while
others have 70% litter and trace amounts of *Selaginella densa*; only
one plot had as much as 10% exposed soil, gravel and rock (combined
cover).

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia cana* (probably *Artemisia cana ssp. cana*
(Shultz 1984)) is decidedly the dominant shrub with canopy coverages
ranging to 50% on heavily grazed sites, but averaging 27%; *Artemisia
frigida* is the only shrub/subshrub with greater than 50% constancy and
its cover did not exceed 3%. A number of graminoids have high constancy,
including *Bouteloua gracilis, Carex filifolia, Koeleria macrantha*, and
*Poa secunda (= Poa sandbergii)*, but only *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata)* exhibits both 100% constancy and the highest cover values
(averaging 38%). *Muhlenbergia cuspidata* and *Calamovilfa longifolia*
had rather high cover on some sites. Forbs constitute an insignificant
component, occurring in trace amounts; those exceeding 50% constancy are
*Sphaeralcea coccinea, Pediomelum argophyllum (= Psoralea argophylla)*
and *Gaura coccinea*. This association is hypothesized to represent the
driest environment capable of supporting *Artemisia cana*; most often
this association grades to upland range sites dominated by *Hesperostipa
comata (= Stipa comata)* and *Bouteloua gracilis* and to the *Artemisia
cana / Pascopyrum smithii* association that occupies more mesic
positions on lower floodplain terraces.

**Dynamics:** The relatively high cover of *Artemisia cana* may be the
result of an altered fire regime. During presettlement time, when fires
were more frequent, this type might not have attained these shrub
densities.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.V. Cooper and C. Jean **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 6-Dec-1999

**GReasons:** This small patch type currently has a narrowly
circumscribed geographic distribution, though it may be expected to
occur in Saskatchewan and North Dakota. Habitats with the potential to
support this type appear to be relatively abundant, but the type itself
is comparatively uncommon. Though embedded in primarily agricultural
landscapes, the proximity of this type to breaklands/badlands probably
lessens the chances of its being sacrificed to the plow. This type\'s
affinity for well drained benches and gently inclined landforms in a
primarily agricultural landscape puts it at a moderate risk for
agriculture conversion. Fortunately this landform also occurs in
breakland and badland environments less desirable for agriculture, thus
lessening the chances of this uncommon type being converted to
agriculture. Its graminoid composition renders it only moderately
attractive to cattle, and the scarcity of forbs decrease its value as
sheep range.

**Ranking Author:** S.V. Cooper, C. Jean **Version:** 6-Dec-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is well documented from Montana and Alberta,
Canada. The same or a closely analogous type occurs in Wyoming, and some
permutation of the type is to be expected in northwestern North Dakota
and Saskatchewan.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** AB, MT:S3, ND, SK?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331E:CC, 331F:CP, 331G:CP, M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, DeVelice et al. 1991,
DeVelice et al. 1995, Driscoll et al. 1984, Thilenius et al. 1995,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001556--*Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Plains Silver Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#plains-silver-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Silver Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#silver-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J. Drake

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Northwestern Great Plains Mixedgrass Prairie (CES303.674)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association has been described from the Great Plains
of central and eastern Montana, far western North Dakota, northwestern
South Dakota, and northeastern Wyoming. It occupies terraces and
floodplains along streams, where alluvium contains more soil water than
is available in the uplands. *Artemisia cana ssp. cana* dominates the
shrub layer, which may also include small amounts of *Symphoricarpos
occidentalis, Sarcobatus vermiculatus*, or *Chrysothamnus* sp. The
undergrowth typically is dense and composed mainly of graminoids, with
forbs contributing little cover. *Pascopyrum smithii* often dominates,
and in many stands several other species may codominate, especially
*Nassella viridula, Poa pratensis*, and *Bromus japonicus* (or another
exotic, annual brome grass). Exotic grasses (*Poa pratensis, Bromus
japonicus*) dominate the undergrowth in many stands. *Bouteloua
gracilis* and *Carex filifolia*, both more typically upland species, may
contribute substantial cover. Common forbs are *Taraxacum* spp.
(exotic), *Achillea millefolium, Artemisia ludoviciana*, and *Vicia
americana*.

**Classification Comments:** This association undoubtedly exists, but
the amount of variation in species composition and vegetation structure,
and the geographic range, must be better documented. It is unclear
whether stands in which *Nassella viridula* or *Elymus lanceolatus ssp.
lanceolatus* dominate or codominate the undergrowth should be included
in this association or placed into different associations. For the
*Pascopyrum smithii - Nassella viridula* Herbaceous Vegetation
(CEGL001583), either *Pascopyrum smithii* or *Elymus lanceolatus ssp.
lanceolatus* may dominate.

This community appears to be very closely related to *Artemisia cana /
Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland (CEGL001072) which is found in Montana,
western North Dakota, and western South Dakota. The most apparent
difference is the cover of shrubs. Further comparison may result in the
combination of these two types.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia cana / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrubland (CEGL001072)

-   *Artemisia cana* ssp. *cana / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001553)

-   *Pascopyrum smithii - Nassella viridula* Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001583)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia cana ssp. cana/Pascopyrum smithii* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.g. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This community is found on flat to gently sloping
alluvial terraces and fans near larger creeks and rivers. Thilenius et
al. (1995) found that most stands were raised at least 1 m above the
general floodplain. Soils are formed from alluvium and are medium- to
fine-textured. Flooding may occur frequently.

**Vegetation:** This community is dominated by moderately dense to dense
graminoids less than 1 m tall. *Pascopyrum smithii* is usually the most
abundant among these. *Poa pratensis, Bouteloua gracilis*, and *Nassella
viridula* are also common. *Calamovilfa longifolia, Hesperostipa comata
(= Stipa comata)*, and *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*
are sometimes present. Short shrubs, especially *Artemisia cana* and
sometimes *Symphoricarpos occidentalis*, have 10-25% cover. Forbs and
nonvascular species are generally rare.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J. Drake **Version:** 29-Jan-1998

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 29-Nov-2000

**GReasons:** This association seems to be common within a large
geographic range, occurring from northern Montana as far south as
central Wyoming, and from central Montana as far east as west-central
South Dakota. It is restricted to mesic swales, terraces and floodplains
along streams of nearly any size, where soils are deep and have low to
moderate amounts of salts. However, the presence of exotic species *Poa
pratensis* and *Bromus japonicus* (or other annual brome grasses) in
many of the stands is cause for concern. The global rank has been
changed from G3? to G4. Prolonged, heavy grazing by livestock may pose a
threat to this association by favoring the grazing-tolerant exotic
species.

**Ranking Author:** G. Jones **Version:** 29-Nov-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known to occur from northern Montana as
far south as central Wyoming, and from central Montana as far east as
west-central South Dakota.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** MT:S4, WY:S3?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331E:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, M332D:PP

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Devils Tower)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, DeVelice et al. 1991,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Hansen et al. 1984,
Hansen et al. 1995, Jones and Walford 1995, Thilenius et al. 1995,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1567--*Artemisia nova* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Black Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#black-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Associations in this alliance occur at intermediate
elevations (1500-2500 m) in the Intermountain and Rocky Mountain West.
The climate is semi-arid with 20-30 (45) cm of annual precipitation. The
greatest proportion of the precipitation falls as summer rain, which
favors the growth of the herbaceous vegetation in this alliance. The
temperature regime is continental, with cold winters, warm summers,
large diurnal ranges, and a short frost-free season. Soils are typically
young, shallow, coarse-textured, and often derived from calcareous
parent materials. In the Columbia River Basin, the vegetation in this
alliance occupies the driest habitats of the *Artemisia* series. The
shrublands occupy well-drained slopes and ridges and often grow with
other *Artemisia* spp. on deeper soils. The vegetation in this alliance
is characterized by the presence of the dwarf-shrub *Artemisia nova*,
typically with sparse (10-25%) cover. Associated shrub species may
include *Atriplex confertifolia, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Gutierrezia
sarothrae*, and *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. The ground layer is
dominated by a dense matrix of perennial bunch grasses that generally
exceed the height of the shrubs. The most important species in the
associations of this alliance are *Festuca idahoensis* and *Leymus
salinus ssp. salmonis*. Forbs generally have a low cover and frequency.
Occasional species include *Balsamorhiza sagittata, Phlox hoodii,
Collinsia parviflora, Sphaeralcea coccinea*, and *Castilleja
angustifolia*. At the edges of intermountain basins, the shrublands are
usually contiguous with *Atriplex confertifolia*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland Alliance (A.1105)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** The vegetation in this alliance is
distinguished from the vegetation in the *Artemisia nova* Shrubland
Alliance (A.1105) by the cover of perennial graminoids being generally
greater than 20% in this alliance. Shrub cover can be variable, but is
typically less than 40%, and often much lower. With higher shrub cover
there is typically less perennial graminoid cover, due to grazing
pressure or other disturbance. However, the distinction between these
two alliances is defined primarily by the cover of the graminoids, and
some stands of associations in the *Artemisia nova* Shrubland Alliance
(A.1105) may have \<40% cover of shrubs.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #320 - Black Sagebrush-Bluebunch Wheatgrass
    (Shiflet 1994) F

-   SRM Cover Type #321 - Black Sagebrush-Idaho Fescue (Shiflet 1994) F

-   SRM Cover Type #322 - Black Sagebrush-Rough Fescue (Shiflet 1994) F

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Associations in this alliance occur at intermediate
elevations (1500-2500 m) in the Intermountain and Rocky Mountain West.
The climate is semi-arid with 20-30 (45) cm of annual precipitation. The
greatest proportion of the precipitation falls as summer rain, and the
growth of perennial graminoids is favored over shrubs. The temperature
regime is continental, with cold winters, warm summers, large diurnal
ranges, and a short frost-free season. Soils are typically young,
shallow, coarse-textured, and often derived from calcareous parent
materials. In the Columbia River Basin, the vegetation in this alliance
occupies the driest habitats of the *Artemisia* series. At the edges of
intermountain basins, the shrublands are usually contiguous with
*Atriplex confertifolia* (Hironaka 1978). The shrublands occupy
well-drained slopes and ridges and often grow with other *Artemisia*
spp. on deeper soils.

**Vegetation:** The vegetation in this alliance is characterized by the
presence of the dwarf-shrub *Artemisia nova*, typically with sparse
(10-25%) cover. Associated shrub species may include *Atriplex
confertifolia, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Gutierrezia sarothrae*, and
*Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. The ground layer is dominated by a dense
matrix of perennial bunch grasses that generally exceed the height of
the shrubs. The most important species in the associations in this
alliance are *Festuca idahoensis* and *Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis*.
Forbs generally have a low cover and frequency. Occasional species
include *Balsamorhiza sagittata, Phlox hoodii, Collinsia parviflora,
Sphaeralcea coccinea*, and *Castilleja angustifolia*.

**Dynamics:** This herbaceous alliance is associated with shallow, rocky
soils which experience considerable drought in summer. Barbour and Major
(1988) report that *Artemisia nova* is utilized by livestock to a much
greater degree than other species of *Artemisia*, resulting in low,
pruned shrubs. Although the fire frequency of *Artemisia nova*
communities is not known, fire may be a more important factor in this
*Artemisia nova* alliance, where herbaceous cover is greater than in the
*Artemisia nova* Shrubland Alliance (A.1105).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Associations in this alliance have only been reported from
the area of the Lemhi Range in eastern Idaho, and from western Montana.
Other stands may occur around the northern and eastern perimeter of the
range of *Artemisia nova* (i.e., portions of California, Oregon, Nevada
and Utah). The limestone or dolomite substrates where it is found occur
in northeastern Nevada, as do the important species, so it is most
likely to occur there.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, MT, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Challis, Salmon)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker and Kennedy 1985, Barbour and Billings 1988,
Barbour and Major 1977, Caicco and Wellner 1983g, Hironaka 1978,
Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Shiflet 1994

#### CEGL001524--*Artemisia nova / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Black Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#black-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-120 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.V. Cooper

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrub herbaceous association has been documented from
only two drainages in Idaho, one in the southwest (Owyhee Uplands
Section (342C), the other in the Little Lost River valley (Beaverhead
Mountains Section, M332E), though it might be more extensive. There is
no confirmation of this type occurring in Montana despite extensive
searches within M332E. It is associated with limestone or dolomite-like
parent materials that weather to shallow, well-drained and highly
calcareous soils; information regarding its landscape setting and other
abiotic param is lacking. *Artemisia nova* is the dominant shrub
component and *Pseudoroegneria spicata* is the dominant grass; *Festuca
idahoensis* cover is sufficiently high to indicate a more mesic moisture
regime and distinguishes this association from the much more common
*Artemisia nova / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland (CEGL001424).

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.V. Cooper **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2? **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** Based on available information this association has a
restricted range (but not because it requires a unique suite of
environmental drivers), few documented occurrences, and might be
somewhat at risk from cattle grazing and weed introduction. *Artemisia
nova* is well documented to occur only on calcareous substrates, but
these substrates predominate in the landscapes of section M332E, where
few occurrences have been found. *Festuca idahoensis* is at the extreme
limits of its tolerance for lack of moisture in this association,
therefore this type should be restricted to cooler exposures and finer,
deeper soils. It may be that little area is occupied by this type simply
because *Artemisia nova* is nearing the extremes of its distribution.
This type should be sought out in northeastern Nevada, where the species
complement is present and abiotic factors should be favorable. These
observations warrant ranking it G2 with a qualifying ? because so many
factors concerning its abundance and ecology remain unknown.

**Ranking Author:** S.V. Cooper **Version:** 19-Nov-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Its known distribution is from a small portion of the
Beaverhead Mountains Section, but within the Idaho portion of this
section there is abundant potential habitat. Very similar climate and
substrates obtain within Montana and the ranges of all characteristic
species extend into southwestern Montana (also part of M332E), but no
occurrences of this association have been documented. Its occurrence in
southwestern Idaho, as well, places it within a semi-arid climate with
less than 11 in. annual precipitation.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S2, MT:S1S2, WY?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:?, 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hironaka et al. 1983, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL001421--*Artemisia nova / Leymus salinus* ssp. *salmonis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Black Sagebrush / Salmon Lyme Grass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#black-sagebrush-salmon-lyme-grass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-121 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Rocky Mountain Lower Montane-Foothill Shrubland (CES306.822)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association is reported from the southern end of
the Lemhi Range, Idaho, within the Beaverhead Mountains ecoregional
section. It occurs within a region of cool, arid climatic conditions.
The average annual precipitation is 10-12 inches. The association occurs
in lower slope positions, on gentle slopes composed of volcanic tuffs,
at approximately 5500-6200 feet elevation. The volcanic tuff substrate
is typically unstable with constant downslope movement of soil surface
layers and a high shrink-swell ratio. Little information is available
regarding the structure and composition of this association. The
dwarf-shrub vegetation is dominated by *Artemisia nova*. This species is
typically less than 50 cm in height, often as low as 10 cm. The
association is relatively open and sparse appearing. The herbaceous
layer is dominated by *Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis*, a Challis endemic.
Several other species of the Challis endemic flora are associated, but a
more specific account is not available. No additional information is
available on species composition of this dwarf-shrub plant association.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia nova* Shrubland (CEGL001417)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia nova/Leymus ambiguus* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:IV.A.3.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The region where the association occurs is to the east
of a major mountain mass which strongly affects the climate of the
region. The high mountains to the west create a rainshadow, allowing
only occasional incursions of moisture-laden winter storms from the
Pacific. Average annual precipitation is low, ranging from 7 inches in
the valleys, such as along the Salmon River, to roughly 45 inches at the
highest elevations. There is a peak during May and June, when convective
showers are common, but winters are relatively dry. Summers are cool,
and winters cold.

The region is mountainous with high, massive ranges, dissected by deep
valleys. The bedrock is a heterogeneous formation of volcanic and
sedimentary rock, with only minor amounts of granitics, known as Challis
Volcanics. At lower elevations along the Salmon River the most common
rock types of this formation are tuffs and andesites.

A flora endemic to this region, known collectively as Challis Endemics,
occurs on these substrates, and is joined by a flora of species disjunct
from drier regions of the Great Basin. Much of the Challis endemic
region roughly coincides with an area receiving less than 8 inches of
precipitation annually, combined with low-elevation occurrences of
andesites and tuffs of the Challis Volcanics.

This plant association occurs on gentle slopes composed of volcanic
tuffs at low elevations, from roughly 5500-6200 feet. This substrate is
typically unstable, with constant downslope movement of soil surface
layers, and a high shrink-swell ratio. Chronic soil disturbance is
therefore a major factor in the species composition of this association,
which includes several of the Challis Endemics.

**Vegetation:** Little information is available regarding the structure
and composition of this association. It is a dwarf-shrub association,
dominated by the low-growing evergreen, microphyllous shrub *Artemisia
nova*. This species is typically less than 50 cm in height, often as low
as 10 cm. No cover or abundance information is available, but most
associations dominated by this species have a relatively open, sparse
appearance. The herbaceous layer is dominated by *Leymus salinus ssp.
salmonis*, a perennial grass species commonly considered a bunchgrass
due to its cespitose form, but which typically has rhizomes. This
variety is one of the Challis Endemics. Several other Challis Endemics
apparently occur in this association, but a more specific list is not
available, and no other information is available on species composition.

**High-ranked species:** Leymus salinus ssp. salmonis (G5T3?)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** The main occurrence of this association is in Germer
Basin RNA, an area that has been relatively little impacted by past
livestock grazing due to generally steep, unstable, and inaccessible
slopes. However, this particular association occurs on gentler slopes at
lower elevations in the basin, and most stands show a great deal of
impact from past grazing activity. This includes old trails and
pedestalling of sagebrush, rye and other plants.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid, mod. S.K. Rust **Version:**
3-Nov-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1G2Q **GRank Review Date:** 29-Oct-1997

**GReasons:** This naturally rare plant association occurs over a
relatively narrow geographic range, in the southwestern region of the
Bitterroot Mountains ecoregional section, within east-central Idaho. It
is found on lower slope positions, on gentle slopes composed of volcanic
tuffs, at approximately 5500 to 6200 feet elevation. The volcanic tuff
substrate is typically unstable with constant downslope movement of soil
surface layers and a high shrink-swell ratio. The association is
protected in proposed and established conservation sites. However,
information is not available to confirm the representative quality of
these occurrences. Appropriate inventory and monitoring work has not
been completed to provide information necessary to adequately understand
and describe current condition, trend, or threat. Quantitative stand
composition and environmental data are not available to verify that the
association is a discrete classification unit.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 29-Oct-1997

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The plant association occurs within the southwestern region
of the Bitterroot Mountains ecoregional section, within east-central
Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S1S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M332E:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Challis, Salmon)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983g,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Moseley 1987b, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1522--*Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### (Basin Big Sagebrush, Foothill Big Sagebrush) Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#basin-big-sagebrush-foothill-big-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is found in the steppe regions in the
Intermountain West of the U.S. Sites typically occur in deep, generally
alluvial soils of fans, swales and draws in basins and foothills. The
vegetation is characterized by a moderate to dense herbaceous layer
dominated by perennial graminoids, with *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
tridentata* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis* dominating or
codominating the open to moderately dense (10-40% cover) short-shrub
layer (\<2 m tall). The herbaceous layer generally has \>20% cover of
perennial graminoids and is typically dominated by bunch grasses which
may form a matrix surrounding the shrubs or occur in patches. The most
widespread and common species is *Pseudoroegneria spicata*, which occurs
from the Columbia Basin to the northern Rockies. Other locally important
species include *Koeleria macrantha, Elymus elymoides, Hesperostipa
comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Poa secunda*. Associated shrubs include
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana, Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Grayia spinosa, Tetradymia canescens, Gutierrezia
sarothrae*, and *Artemisia frigida*. Forbs are generally of low
importance and highly variable across the range of the alliance. A
cryptogamic soil crust is often present and will cover the ground
surface in undisturbed stands. Diagnostic of this alliance is a moderate
(\>20% cover) perennial graminoid layer with an *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. tridentata*- or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis*-dominated
(or codominated) shrub layer that has 10-40% cover. *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata* and/or *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
xericensis* must contribute at least 40% of the total shrub cover if the
shrub layer is mixed.

**Classification Comments:** More survey and classification work is
needed to fully describe the range of this alliance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
    Shrubland Alliance (A.830)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1521)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2555)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1527)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other similar *Artemisia tridentata* alliances by the
nominal subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* and by a significant
perennial graminoid layer (\>20% cover) in the shrub herbaceous
alliances. This alliance contains stands dominated by *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis*.
The cover of either of these must contribute at least 40% of the total
shrub cover to be included in this alliance.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata-Agropyron spicatum* habitat type
    (Daubenmire 1970) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type (Hironaka et
    al. 1983) ?

-   Big Sagebrush Scrub (Holland 1986b) I

-   Big Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   Great Basin Sagebrush (*Artemisia*), #32 (Kuchler 1964) I

-   SRM Cover Type #314 - Big Sagebrush-Bluebunch Wheatgrass
    (Shiflet 1994) I

-   Sagebrush Steppe (*Artemisia-Agropyron*) (Kuchler 1964) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This shrub herbaceous alliance occurs throughout the
Intermountain West from the western Great Basin to the northern Rocky
Mountains and Colorado Plateau at elevations ranging from 240 m in the
Columbia Basin up to 2500 m. The climate where this alliance occurs is
semi-arid with annual precipitation ranging from 18-40 cm and high
inter-annual variation. Much of the precipitation falls as snow, and
growing-season drought is characteristic. Temperatures are continental
with large annual and diurnal variation. In drier regions, these
shrublands are usually associated with perennial or ephemeral stream
drainages with water tables less than 3 m from the soil surface. Sites
supporting this alliance include sloping fans, footslopes, rolling
hills, swales, draws, and deep, well-drained alluvial bottomlands. Soils
are deep, fine- to medium-textured alluvial soils with some source of
subirrigation during the summer season, but moderately deep upland soils
with ample moisture storage also support these shrublands. Some stands
occur on deep, sandy soils, or soils that are highly calcareous
(Hironaka et al. 1983). Although this alliance may grade into sites with
alkaline soils at the edge of internally drained basins, *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata* is a non-halophyte and requires low salinity
for optimum growth. The importance of perennial bunch grasses, the most
typical herbaceous associates, is favored with greater spring and summer
rain, which increases northward and eastward. Because of the deep
alluvial soils, most stands have been converted to agriculture in much
of the range of the alliance. Adjacent vegetation is highly variable,
but some common adjacents include *Juniperus occidentalis*-, *Pinus
ponderosa*-, and *Cercocarpus ledifolius*-dominated woodlands, as well
as shrublands dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*.

**Vegetation:** This widespread shrub herbaceous alliance occurs
throughout much of the semi-arid western U.S. The vegetation is
characterized by a moderate to dense herbaceous layer dominated by
perennial graminoids with *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* or
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis* dominating or codominating the
open to moderately dense (10-40% cover) short-shrub layer (\<2 m tall).
The herbaceous layer is has over 20% cover of perennial graminoids and
is typically dominated by bunch grasses which may form a matrix
surrounding the shrubs or occur in large patches. The most widespread
species is *Pseudoroegneria spicata*, which occurs from the Columbia
Basin to the northern Rockies. Other locally dominant or important
species may include *Leymus cinereus, Festuca idahoensis, Elymus
lanceolatus, Elymus elymoides, Pleuraphis jamesii (= Hilaria jamesii),
Koeleria macrantha, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Poa
secunda*. Other associated shrubs, including *Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus)* and/or *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*, are
almost always present and increase with disturbance. Less commonly
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana, Grayia spinosa, Tetradymia canescens, Purshia tridentata,
Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Sarcobatus vermiculatus,
Artemisia frigida*, and *Atriplex* spp. occur. Trees are very rarely
present in this alliance, but scattered individuals of *Pinus ponderosa,
Juniperus scopulorum, Juniperus occidentalis*, or *Cercocarpus
ledifolius* may occur. Forbs are generally of low importance and are
highly variable across the range, but may be diverse in some stands.
Species that often occur are *Symphyotrichum ascendens (= Aster
adscendens)* and *Collinsia parviflora* in Nevada, *Penstemon
caespitosus* in north-central Colorado, *Achillea millefolium, Erigeron
compositus, Packera cana (= Senecio canus)*, and *Taraxacum officinale*
in southwestern Montana, and *Cordylanthus ramosus* in southwestern
Wyoming. Other important genera include *Astragalus, Oenothera,
Eriogonum*, and *Balsamorhiza*. Mosses and lichens may be important
ground cover, and a cryptogamic soil crust is often present and will
cover the ground surface in undisturbed stands. Diagnostic of this
shrub-steppe alliance is a moderate (\>20% cover) perennial graminoid
layer with an *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata*- or *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. xericensis*-dominated (or codominated) shrub layer that
has 10-40% cover. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* and/or
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. xericensis* must contribute at least 40% of
the total shrub cover if the shrub layer is mixed.

**Dynamics:** Complex ecological interactions between fire regimes,
grazing history, and climate patterns result in equally complex patterns
of species structure and composition in *Artemisia tridentata*. These
present corresponding difficulties in the classification of these
shrublands, which have been compounded by the influence of human
settlement and agricultural patterns. What follows is a summary of some
of the influences of altered fire regimes, and grazing history on
*Artemisia tridentata* shrublands and shrub herbaceous vegetation that
can result in the conversion of stands of this alliance into stands of
*Artemisia tridentata (ssp. tridentata, ssp. xericensis)* Shrubland
Alliance (A.830) or an annual grassland.

*Artemisia tridentata (ssp. tridentata, ssp. xericensis)* shrub
herbaceous communities may represent either moister or less disturbed
examples of the *Artemisia tridentata (ssp. tridentata, ssp.
xericensis)* shrubland complex. Shrub densities typically increase with
overgrazing of the bunchgrass component or with increasing summer
drought (West 1983c). *Artemisia tridentata* is inhibited by fire, and
excessive grazing may decrease fire frequency due to consumption of
herbaceous forage, resulting in increased shrub density. Conversely,
invasion by non-native annual grasses (e.g., *Bromus tectorum*) may
increase fire frequency sufficiently to eliminate the shrubs from the
stands (Daubenmire 1970). With a change in fire frequency, species
composition will be altered as well (West 1983c). With a high fire
frequency, every 2-5 years, perennial grasses and shrubs are eliminated
and non-native annual grasses dominate. At fire-return intervals of
10-30 years, short-lived resprouting shrubs, such as *Chrysothamnus* or
*Tetradymia* spp. dominate. At fire intervals of 30-70 years, a mixture
of perennial bunch grasses and shrubs is maintained. Finally, in the
complete absence of fire, deep-rooted shrubs, such as *Artemisia
tridentata* become the dominant shrubs.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This widespread shrub-steppe alliance is reported from the
Columbia Plateau, Great Basin and foothills of the Sierra Nevada, east
to the northwestern Great Plains and south into Nevada, Colorado and
likely Utah, although it has not been reported from there yet.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA, CO?, ID, MT, NV, OR, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331G:CC, 341:C, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC,
342D:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC, 342I:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332A:CC,
M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC, M341:C

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Shoshone)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Caicco and Wellner 1983k, Daubenmire 1970, Hironaka
1978, Hironaka et al. 1983, Holland 1986b, Jensen et al. 1988a, Kuchler
1964, McArthur and Welch 1986, Mooney 1985, Mueggler and Stewart 1980,
ORNHP unpubl. data, Ralston 1969, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Shiflet
1994, Tweit and Houston 1980, West 1983c

#### CEGL001019--*Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) / Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### (Basin Big Sagebrush, Foothill Big Sagebrush) / Bluebunch Wheatgrass - Curly Bluegrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#basin-big-sagebrush-foothill-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass---curly-bluegrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-122 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** J.S. Kagan

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This is a shrub herbaceous community found in Oregon on
deep loess or alluvial soils. It is found on alluvial terraces, which
are flat, or on Palouse (loess) hills, in which case it is found on
flats or south-facing slopes. Soils are developed from loess deeper than
5 feet, and virtually free of gravel and stones. There are very few
examples of this type left, and therefore, it has been poorly sampled.
*Artemisia tridentata* is present in all stands, with cover ranging from
1-15% for stands in excellent condition, and greater in poorer condition
stands. In terraces, *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* is clearly
the subspecies present. In some of the loess stands, characterization of
the sagebrush subspecies is more difficult. *Pseudoroegneria spicata*
has up to 55% of the cover. Epigeous cryptogams, primarily lichens,
occupy up to 13% of the cover and are characteristic of high-quality
examples. *Poa secunda* can occupy up to 9% cover, while *Phlox
longifolia, Plectritis macrocera, Phlox gracilis (= Microsteris
gracilis), Lithophragma glabrum (= Lithophragma bulbiferum)*, and
*Plantago patagonica* are commonly found at low cover. *Bromus tectorum*
dominates disturbed areas (ground-squirrel sites), even in the best
condition stands.

**Classification Comments:** The classification of this community, and
all *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* communities, is limited by
the very significant lack of high-quality remnants. The few examples in
the Columbia Basin are modified by altered fire regimes, overgrazing,
and altered patterns of flooding. This Palouse community type appears
very distinct, but is probably better classified by the bunch grasses
and Palouse soils than by the subspecies of sagebrush. The distinction
between this type and the more common *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland (CEGL001009) and
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535) is not clear. Wyoming sagebrush /
bluebunch wheatgrass is quite common throughout the Intermountain West,
but the codominance of bluegrass usually indicates a deep-soiled,
rock-free site, which is fairly rare. Very deep-soiled, basin sagebrush
sites have been badly degraded everywhere.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001018)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Pascopyrum smithii -
    (Elymus lanceolatus)* Shrubland (CEGL001017)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrubland (CEGL001009)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata/Pseudoroegneria spicata-Poa
    secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J.S. Kagan **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1 **GRank Review Date:** 31-Oct-2000

**GReasons:** This association occurs on one of the most endangered
habitats in the Pacific Northwest. It is rare, fragile, and extremely
valuable to agricultural conversion due to the deep soils. There are no
large, viable remnants of this community remaining. The few small
remnants are threatened by grazing, fire, exotic species, and
agricultural development. Most of the original distribution of this type
has been developed for agriculture, and there are almost no sites
protected from grazing.

**Ranking Author:** J.S. Kagan **Version:** 31-Oct-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** At one time, this type was probably common on deep soils at
low to mid elevations throughout the inland areas of the Pacific
Northwest. It is now restricted to a few, tiny remnants in Oregon.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** OR:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342I:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Kagan 1987b, ORNHP unpubl. data, Poulton 1955, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

#### CEGL001018--*Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### (Basin Big Sagebrush, Foothill Big Sagebrush) / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#basin-big-sagebrush-foothill-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** G.P. Jones

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This is a tall-shrub type from deep soils in basins and
foothills of the Idaho, Montana and Wyoming Rocky Mountains west to
eastern Washington, eastern Oregon, and northeastern California. Stands
of this type grow in deep, generally alluvial soils of fans, swales, and
draws in intermountain basins and in the foothills of the surrounding
mountains. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* dominates the shrub
layer, which may contain *Chrysothamnus* spp. and *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. wyomingensis*. Shrub cover generally ranges from 10-25%, but may
exceed 25% in some stands. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* dominates the
understory in good condition stands, which may also contain a variety of
other graminoids and forbs. *Bromus tectorum* is common in degraded
stands. The species composition of this type is very similar to
*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
Shrubland (CEGL001009) (which grows on shallower, drier soils), but
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* dominates the overstory in this
association. Stands of this type occupy deeper soils than do stands of
the shorter *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria
spicata* Shrubland (CEGL001009), which may form the surrounding matrix
vegetation.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001019)---is listed from Oregon and is similar in having a
    shrub layer of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* and
    *Pseudoroegneria spicata* in the understory, but it occurs on deep
    loess soils (as opposed to alluvial soils), the shrubs are
    scattered, and the understory consists of dense lichens and mosses
    with scattered vascular plants (J. Kagan pers. comm. 1997).

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535)---shares many understory
    species (Tweit and Houston 1980, Mueggler and Stewart 1980).

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrubland (CEGL001009)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Agropyron spicatum* (MONT) habitat type
    (Mueggler and Stewart 1980) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Roegneria spicata* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Agropyron spicatum* habitat
    type (Tweit and Houston 1980) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / P. spicata - Stipa
    thurberiana* Association (Hironaka et al. 1983) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Pseudoroegneria spicata -
    Stipa thurberiana* Association (Daubenmire 1988) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata/Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* forms a shrub
layer commonly up to 1.5-2 m tall, with canopy cover of 10% to over 25%.
Other shrub species that often are present in smaller amounts are
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus)*, and *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. Two
subshrubs, *Artemisia frigida* and *Gutierrezia sarothrae*, usually are
present in the understory. *Pseudoroegneria spicata* contributes
substantial cover to the understory and dominates or codominates in
stands in good condition. Other grass species that usually are present
but contribute less cover are *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)* and
*Bouteloua gracilis*; *Koeleria macrantha* and *Pascopyrum smithii* are
present less often. In degraded stands, *Bromus tectorum* contributes
substantial cover. A number of forbs may be present in small amounts,
especially *Opuntia polyacantha, Erigeron* spp., and *Allium cernuum*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata
    Shrubland (CEGL001009)

**Adjacent Association Comments:** Stands of this type occupy deeper
soils than do stands of the shorter *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland (CEGL001009), which
may form the surrounding matrix vegetation.

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G.P. Jones **Version:** 5-Sep-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G4 **GRank Review Date:** 15-Dec-1998

**GReasons:** The rank should possibly be changed from G2G4 to G2 to
reflect the drastic decline in the extent of this association and the
moderate to poor condition of many of the remaining stands (most of
which have abundant exotic annual bromes dominating the understory).
However, its extent in Nevada is unclear. Hironaka et al. (1983) note
that the habitat type supporting this association \"has been drastically
reduced\" by cultivation of the floodplains where it used to occur, and
that only a few stands remain. In Oregon and Washington, this
association was probably much more common before settlement than it is
now, and most stands have been destroyed by conversion to agriculture,
prolonged heavy grazing, and inundation. This association is also
assumed to have declined in area in California. In northwestern Wyoming,
the area occupied by this association may have declined little, but
stands there are restricted to specialized sites and apparently are
small, so that geographic area probably has always contained only a
small proportion of the original extent of the association.

**Ranking Author:** G.P. Jones **Version:** 17-Nov-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association at one time extended from the northeastern
corner of California, eastern Oregon, and eastern Washington on the west
to northwestern Wyoming on the east, and as far south as northeastern
Nevada. It has been reported from southwestern Montana. It may also
occur in northern Utah and perhaps in northwestern Colorado, although it
apparently has not been found in vegetation surveys of northwestern
Colorado.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CA:S2?, CO?, ID:S1, MT, NV:S2S4, OR:S1?, WA:S1?, WY:S1?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331G:CC, 341:?, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC,
342D:CC, 342I:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M332A:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC,
M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Shoshone)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983k,
Cooper et al. 1999, Daubenmire 1970, Daubenmire 1988, Driscoll et al.
1984, Hansen et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Jensen et al. 1988a,
Johnston 1987, Jones and Ogle 2000, Mooney 1985, Mueggler and Stewart
1980, Tweit and Houston 1980, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1521--*Artemisia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Basin Big Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#basin-big-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance, found in the western United States, occurs
on flat to gently rolling sites, often with fine soils. Stands can be
found on uplands or dry alluvial plains. The herbaceous layer is
composed of moderately open to moderately dense mid grasses and short
grasses. The shrub layer is typically 10-30% but may be higher in some
stands. *Pascopyrum smithii* is the dominant species, typically
accompanied by *Bouteloua gracilis, Koeleria macrantha, Nassella
viridula, Sphaeralcea coccinea*, and *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata)*. *Artemisia tridentata* is the most abundant shrub.

**Classification Comments:** Each *Artemisia tridentata* subspecies has
a shrub herbaceous alliance with a medium-tall grass understory. The
subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* occurring in associations included
in this alliance are not determined, inconsistent or may be mixed. As
the subspecies in stands in this alliance are determined, some
associations can be moved or split and placed into these other
alliances. Further study is needed to re-apportion communities within
this alliance or justify the current classification. Mueggler and
Stewart (1980) describe two *Artemisia tridentata* habitat types, one
with *Festuca campestris* diagnostic and the other with *Festuca
idahoensis*. The first one includes both *ssp. vaseyana* and *ssp.
wyomingensis* depending on elevation. They cite an *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type from eastern
Washington (Daubenmire 1970). Dick-Peddie (1993) described several
vegetation types that may be classified in this alliance from four
Shrub-Grass Series in New Mexico. Also, this alliance may share some
floristic similarities to the *Sarcobatus vermiculatus* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance (A.1535). More complete descriptions of both alliances are
needed to distinguish them.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1522)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance (A.829)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1527)

-   *Leymus cinereus* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1204)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** There are many shrubland and shrub
herbaceous alliances with *Artemisia tridentata* as a diagnostic
species. Stands in this alliance have a shrub canopy with less than 25%
cover, a significant understory of graminoids, and no flood regime. They
are most similar to the four shrub herbaceous alliances above, but
differ by not having a distinctly tall or short herbaceous layer, and
are not limited to a single subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata*.
*Artemisia tridentata* is a widespread species in the western U.S., and
is a common understory or overstory species in many woodlands,
shrublands and grasslands.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* habitat
    type (Daubenmire 1970) ?

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Series (Mueggler and Stewart 1980) I

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata* and ssp. *wyominingensis*
    Shrub Steppe (Chappell et al. 1997) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands in this widespread sagebrush steppe alliance
occur across the intermountain west, Rocky Mountains, northwestern Great
Plains including the Columbia, Wyoming and Uinta basins, and into the
northern Colorado Plateau. Elevations range from 1200-2400 m. Climate is
temperate, continental. Mean annual precipitation ranges from 25-50 cm.
Precipitation primarily occurs in the winter as snow or rain in the
western portion of its range, however spring and summer precipitation
becomes important in the eastern portion of its range. This moisture is
stored in the soil profile and utilized during the typically dry
summers. Stands are typically found in relative mesic upland sites such
as flat to rolling plains, plateaus and hills; benches and terraces
above valley floors, alluvial fans and footslopes, mountain parks and
ridges, but also well-drained alluvial bottomlands. Sites are nearly
level to moderately sloping (to 40%). The alliance occurs on all
aspects, but is restricted to north slopes in more xeric areas. Soils
are shallow to deep, slightly acid to alkaline (pH 6-8), non-saline,
often well-drained and rocky, but may include poorly drained soils and
clay pans. Soil textures range from sandy loam to silty clay. Parent
material is from a variety of alluvium, colluvium, and loess.

Adjacent stands vary, and may include grasslands dominated by *Poa
secunda, Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca idahoensis*; shrublands
dominated by *Sarcobatus vermiculatus* or *Atriplex* spp. in saline
bottoms; and woodlands dominated by *Juniperus occidentalis, Pinus
edulis* or *Pinus ponderosa* on upland ridges.

**Vegetation:** These shrub herbaceous stands occur in the across the
intermountain western U.S. to northwestern Great Plains and the southern
Rocky Mountains. The herbaceous layer dominates the stands and is
composed of a moderately open to dense layer of mid grasses and short
grasses. The shrub layer is typically 10-25%, but may be slightly higher
or lower in some stands. The dominant species are the medium-tall sod
grass *Pascopyrum smithii*, the bunch grasses *Festuca idahoensis* or
*Festuca campestris*, or the short grasses *Bouteloua gracilis* or *Poa
secunda*. Other common graminoid species include *Carex filifolia,
Danthonia intermedia, Elymus trachycaulus ssp. trachycaulus, Koeleria
macrantha, Nassella viridula, Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Poa secunda (= Poa canbyi), Pseudoroegneria spicata,
Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Achnatherum occidentale (=
Stipa occidentalis)*. *Artemisia tridentata* is the most abundant shrub
and is diagnostic of this alliance. The subspecies of *Artemisia
tridentata* occurring in associations in this alliance is not
determined, inconsistent or may be mixed. Other common woody species
include *Artemisia frigida, Artemisia nova, Atriplex canescens, Atriplex
confertifolia, Chrysothamnus* spp., *Gutierrezia sarothrae* or
*Krascheninnikovia lanata*. The sparse to moderately dense perennial
forb layer includes species such as *Achillea millefolium, Antennaria
rosea, Arenaria congesta, Astragalus* spp., *Eriogonum umbellatum,
Geranium viscosissimum* or *Sphaeralcea coccinea*. Two cacti, *Opuntia
fragilis* and *Opuntia polyacantha*, may also be present. Annual forbs
and grasses are present seasonally.

**Dynamics:** Exotic plants have invaded many stands, especially where
disturbed (Daubenmire 1970). Common exotics may include annual grasses
such as *Bromus tectorum, Bromus japonicus* and *Bromus briziformis*
which may be abundant during wet years; and annual forbs like *Epilobium
brachycarpum, Erodium cicutarium, Lactuca serriola, Tragopogon dubius*,
and the perennial forb *Hypericum perforatum*. The winter precipitation
recharges soil moisture, and the typically dry summers favor shrubs and
deep-rooted grasses (West 1983c, 1998). The exotic annual grass *Bromus
tectorum* competes favorably with these cool-season, perennial bunch
grasses in these stands by geminating in the fall, establishing a root
system during the winter, then utilizing and depleting soil moisture
early in the spring while the bunch grasses are still mostly dormant
(West 1983c).

Fire regulates the densities of fire-intolerant shrubs like *Artemisia
tridentata* in these stands (West 1983c, 1988). The invasion of exotic
annual grasses has increased the fire frequency in some of these stands
causing a decline on the abundance of *Artemisia tridentata* and other
non-sprouting shrubs. Fire favors shrubs like *Ericameria nauseosa* that
can resprout after fire (West 1983c). However, fire suppression of the
sagebrush steppe could lead to conversion to *Artemisia tridentata*
shrublands (West 1988). Overgrazing can contribute by reducing the
herbaceous layer which decreases its ability to carry fire (West 1988).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Vegetation included in this alliance is found across the
sagebrush steppe and Rocky Mountains from the east side of the Cascades
in Washington and Oregon to the Dakotas, and south to northern Nevada,
Utah and Colorado. It is not reported from Idaho, but likely occurs
there and possible in northern California and western Nebraska.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** MT, ND, NV, SD, UT, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C, 19:C, 25:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331E:C?, 331F:CC, 341:C, 342A:CC, 342B:CC,
342I:CC, M242C:??, M331B:CC, M332B:CC, M332C:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC,
M333A:CC, M333B:CC, M333C:CC, M333D:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Little Missouri)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968a, Blackburn et al. 1968c,
Blackhawk Coal Company 1981, Brotherson and Brotherson 1979, Chappell et
al. 1997, Dastrup 1963, Daubenmire 1970, Daubenmire 1992, Dick-Peddie
1993, Faber-Langendoen et al. 1996, Graham 1937, Hall 1973, Hansen 1985,
Hansen et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, Hirsch 1985, Mariah Associates
1981, McLean 1970, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Poulton 1955, Sawyer and
Keeler-Wolf 1995, Thilenius et al. 1995, Tisdale 1947, USFS 1992, Van
Pelt 1978, West 1983c, West 1988

#### CEGL001530--*Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#basin-big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

-   Northwestern Great Plains Mixedgrass Prairie (CES303.674)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** Compare this association with *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrubland (CEGL001014)
and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001533).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Festuca idahoensis*
    Shrubland (CEGL001014)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca campestris* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001531)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001533)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4Q **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV:S3?, WA:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 11:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 341:C, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342I:CC,
M242C:??, M331B:CC, M332B:CC, M332C:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M333A:CC,
M333D:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968a, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Daubenmire 1970, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hall 1973, Hironaka et al. 1983,
McLean 1970, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Poulton 1955, Tisdale 1947,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001458--*Artemisia tridentata / Leymus cinereus* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Great Basin Lyme Grass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#basin-big-sagebrush-great-basin-lyme-grass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-123 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Leymus cinereus* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.A.2.d. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NV, UT:S2S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 11:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Blackburn et al. 1968b, Blackburn et al. 1969a,
Blackburn et al. 1969d, Blackburn et al. 1971, Bourgeron and Engelking
1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Tueller et al. 1966, Walker and Brotherson
1982, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Young et al. 1986

### A.2555--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Spiked Big Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#spiked-big-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Plant communities meeting the diagnostic criteria for the
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
(A.2555) have been documented in the Gros Ventre and Wind River
mountains of western Wyoming. This alliance consists of sagebrush
communities dominated or codominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
spiciformis*, with little or no *Artemisia cana* present. *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. spiciformis* makes up at least 40% of the total
sagebrush cover. The alliance is found at elevations ranging from 2590
to 3205 m (8500-10,500 feet), but is most common from 2745 to 3050 m
(9000-10,000 feet). The alliance occurs mostly on Mollisols with a cryic
soil temperature regime. The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1 m tall, and
shrub canopy cover is 10-45%. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis*
averages about 25% canopy cover. Other shrubs present may include
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula,
Dasiphora fruticosa ssp. floribunda (= Potentilla fruticosa),
Symphoricarpos oreophilus*, and *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. Graminoid
canopy cover ranges from 15-65%. Forbs range from 5-75% canopy cover.
Herbaceous associates include *Festuca idahoensis, Elymus trachycaulus,
Potentilla gracilis, Trisetum spicatum, Geranium viscosissimum, Melica
spectabilis, Carex raynoldsii, Achnatherum nelsonii*, and *Achillea
millefolium*. Common exotic associates include *Poa pratensis* and
*Taraxacum officinale*.

**Classification Comments:** This is a newly described alliance, with
very little in the way of documentation. In the past, *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. spiciformis* communities have been included in the
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1526)
and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831).
Much work is need to clarify the distribution and floristic
characteristics of this alliance that will distinguish it clearly.
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* as described by Shultz (1984)
and Goodrich et al. (1985) includes *Artemisia rothrockii* as used by
Bramble-Brodahl (1978) and described by Beetle and Johnson (1982). It
does not include *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* form.
*spiciformis* as used by numerous authors, including Bramble-Brodahl
(1978), Winward (1980), Beetle and Johnson (1982), and Hironaka et al.
(1983). Goodrich et al. (1985) reassign form. *spiciformis* to variety
*vaseyana* of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1522)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
    Shrubland Alliance (A.830)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.2550)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1527)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** The distinction between these alliances
is made by estimating the relative cover of the particular *Artemisia
tridentata* subtaxa and total cover of perennial graminoids. Greater
than roughly 20% cover of the perennial graminoids places the stand into
one of the Shrub Herbaceous alliances, while more than 40% relative
cover of either *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* or *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana* places the stand into the respective alliance
for that subtaxa.

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is found at elevations ranging from 2590
to 3205 m (8500-10,500 feet), but is most common from 2745 to 3050 m
(9000-10,000 feet). Mean annual precipitation is typically 64 to 89 cm
(25-35 inches), falling mostly as snow. In western Wyoming this alliance
occurs mostly on Mollisols with a cryic soil temperature regime (Tart
1996). Depth to a root-restricting layer ranges from 13 to over 236 cm
(5-93 inches).

In western Wyoming, adjacent vegetation includes mostly forested
communities, but this alliance is also associated with other shrublands,
grasslands, and tall forb communities (Tart 1996). Associated forests
are dominated by *Abies lasiocarpa, Picea engelmannii, Pinus
albicaulis*, and *Populus tremuloides*. Adjacent shrublands are
dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Artemisia cana ssp.
viscidula*, or *Salix boothii*. Adjacent herbaceous communities are
dominated by *Festuca idahoensis, Elymus trachycaulus, Juncus
drummondii, Hymenoxys hoopesii*, or *Antennaria microphylla*.

**Vegetation:** The shrub layer ranges from 0.5-1 m tall, and shrub
canopy cover is 10-45%. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* averages
about 25% canopy cover. Other shrubs present may include *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Artemisia cana ssp. viscidula, Dasiphora
fruticosa ssp. floribunda (= Potentilla fruticosa), Symphoricarpos
oreophilus*, and *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. Graminoid canopy cover
ranges from 15-65%. Forbs range from 5-75% canopy cover. Herbaceous
associates include *Festuca idahoensis, Elymus trachycaulus, Potentilla
gracilis, Trisetum spicatum, Geranium viscosissimum, Melica spectabilis,
Carex raynoldsii, Achnatherum nelsonii*, and *Achillea millefolium*.
Common exotic associates include *Poa pratensis* and *Taraxacum
officinale*.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* communities have a
natural fire frequency averaging between 20 and 40 years. Presettlement
fires burned unevenly, resulting in an ever-changing mosaic of different
densities and ages of sagebrush plants (Winward 1991). However,
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. spiciformis* resprouts vigorously after fire
(Goodrich et al. 1985) and can return to pre-burn canopy cover very
quickly (Winward 1991).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Plant communities in this alliance have been documented in
the Gros Ventre and Wind River mountains of western Wyoming
(Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Tart 1996). *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
spiciformis* is likely to dominate communities throughout its range
because of its ability to resprout after fire. Therefore, this alliance
is likely to occur in Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and Montana.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331E:CP, M331I:CC, M331J:CC,
M332A:??, M332D:??, M332E:??, M332F:??, M341C:??

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Beetle and Johnson 1982, Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Goodrich
et al. 1985, Hironaka et al. 1983, Tart 1996, Winward 1980b, Winward
1991

#### CEGL002993--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation \[Provisional\]

#### Spiked Big Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#spiked-big-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-124 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Provisional **Origin:** 22-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 22-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331E:CP, M331I:CP, M331J:CP

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Tart 1996, Western Ecology Working
Group n.d.

### A.1526--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Mountain Big Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#mountain-big-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is widespread in mountainous areas across the
western U.S. The alliance can form large, continuous stands on
mid-elevation mountain slopes and foothills, and can extend above lower
treeline as patches within montane or subalpine coniferous forests.
Sites are variable and range from flats to steep slopes to ridgetops
with deep to shallow rocky soil. The vegetation included in this
alliance is characterized by a sparse (\<25% cover on average) shrub
layer of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, but generally high cover
of perennial graminoids (\>20% total cover). Associated shrubs include
*Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia rigida, Ribes cereum, Symphoricarpos
oreophilus, Purshia tridentata, Prunus virginiana, Tetradymia
canescens*, and *Amelanchier alnifolia*. The herbaceous layer is
typically abundant and dominated by perennial graminoids. The most
common species is the bunchgrass *Festuca idahoensis*, or *Carex
geyeri*, a sod-forming sedge. Other locally important species include
*Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca thurberi, Bromus carinatus, Elymus
elymoides, Elymus trachycaulus, Koeleria macrantha, Achnatherum
occidentale (= Stipa occidentalis)*, and *Poa secunda*. Forb canopy
cover and species composition are variable; species of *Castilleja,
Potentilla, Erigeron, Phlox, Astragalus, Geum, Lupinus*, and *Eriogonum*
are characteristic, and *Balsamorhiza sagittata, Achillea millefolium,
Eriogonum umbellatum, Antennaria rosea*, and *Geranium viscosissimum*
are common. Trees are uncommon but individuals of *Pinus ponderosa,
Cercocarpus ledifolius, Populus tremuloides, Juniperus occidentalis,
Pinus albicaulis*, and *Abies lasiocarpa* may occasionally occur.
Diagnostic of this shrub herbaceous alliance is the relatively sparse
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* shrub layer (\<25% cover on
average) with an abundant graminoid layer.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1522)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
    Shrubland Alliance (A.830)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1521)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance (A.829)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2555)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.2550)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1527)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance contains stands in which
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is dominant or contributes \>40% of
the total sagebrush cover and with a diverse herbaceous layer of medium
stature (0.5-1 m tall) in which perennial graminoids have total cover
\>20%. Some stands in the *Artemisia tridentata* Shrubland Alliance
(A.829) may be identical, but the subspecies was not distinguished in
the primary literature.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Big Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   SRM Cover Type #314 - Big Sagebrush-Bluebunch Wheatgrass
    (Shiflet 1994) I

-   SRM Cover Type #315 - Big Sagebrush-Idaho Fescue (Shiflet 1994) I

-   SRM Cover Type #316 - Big Sagebrush-Rough Fescue (Shiflet 1994) I

-   SRM Cover Type #612 - Sagebrush - Grass (Shiflet 1994) B

-   Western Shrub and Grasslands Combinations: 55: Sagebrush-Steppe
    (*Artemisia-Agropyron*) (Kuchler 1964) I

-   Western Shrub: 38: Great Basin Sagebrush (*Artemisia*)
    (Kuchler 1964) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*-dominated shrub
herbaceous communities occupy the coolest and moistest climate zone of
the *Artemisia tridentata* shrubland and shrub herbaceous complex. This
alliance often occurs above lower treeline as patches within montane or
subalpine coniferous forests. The climate regime is cool, semi-arid to
subhumid, with yearly precipitation ranging from 25-60 cm. Much of the
yearly precipitation falls as snow, which may cover the ground for long
periods in winter. Temperatures are continental with large annual and
diurnal variation. The elevation range for this alliance is large, from
about 1060 m in eastern Oregon and Washington, to well over 3000 m in
the mountains of northern Nevada, Idaho, and Colorado. Landscape
positions are variable as well, but primarily are deep-soiled to stony
flats, ridges, nearly flat ridgetops, and mountain slopes. All aspects
are represented, and slopes range from nearly flat to very steep. Soils
generally are moderately deep to deep, somewhat well-drained, and of
loam, sandy loam, clay loam, or gravelly loam textural classes, often
having a substantial volume of coarse fragments. The soils are derived
from a variety of parent materials (although sandstones, limestones,
basalts, and crystalline rocks are common). In some cases, soils
supporting stands of this alliance are unstable and prone to mass
movement (Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Hironaka et al. 1983). In subalpine
environments, these shrub herbaceous communities are found on deeper
soils than *Artemisia arbuscula* subalpine shrublands. Trees are
uncommon but individuals of *Pinus ponderosa, Cercocarpus ledifolius,
Populus tremuloides, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus scopulorum, Pinus
albicaulis*, and *Abies lasiocarpa* may occasionally occur.

Adjacent vegetation is highly variable. In the Great Basin and Rocky
Mountains, adjacent communities typically include *Pinus ponderosa*
forests, *Pinus - Juniperus* or *Cercocarpus ledifolius* woodlands,
*Populus tremuloides* forests, *Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia rigida,
Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, and *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
tridentata* shrublands, and herbaceous meadows. In the Blue Mountains,
eastern Cascade Range, and in the Okanogan Highlands these shrublands
are found in a matrix with *Juniperus occidentalis, Pinus ponderosa,
Pinus albicaulis*, and *Abies lasiocarpa* forests and woodlands.

**Vegetation:** Plant associations in this alliance are characterized by
a sparse (\<25% cover on average) shrub layer of *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana*, a microphyllous evergreen shrub. Associated shrubs
across the range of this alliance include *Artemisia arbuscula,
Artemisia rigida, Ribes cereum, Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Purshia
tridentata, Prunus virginiana, Tetradymia canescens*, and *Amelanchier
alnifolia*. The herbaceous layer is typically dominated by cespitose
graminoids which form dense swards surrounding and sometimes overtopping
the shrubs. Perennial graminoid cover generally exceeds 20%. The most
common species is *Festuca idahoensis*, which occurs from the Columbia
Basin to the northern Rockies and is almost always present. *Carex
geyeri*, a sod-forming sedge, is the dominant herbaceous species in an
association found in eastern Oregon and southern Idaho (Hironaka et al.
1983). *Festuca campestris* is another locally important species. Other
common species include *Festuca thurberi, Bromus carinatus, Elymus
elymoides, Elymus trachycaulus, Koeleria macrantha, Achnatherum
occidentale (= Stipa occidentalis)*, and *Poa secunda*. These
communities are more forb-rich than those of the *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana* shrublands, but actual species present are highly
variable across the range. Species of *Castilleja, Potentilla, Erigeron,
Phlox, Astragalus, Geum, Lupinus*, and *Eriogonum* are characteristic,
and *Balsamorhiza sagittata, Achillea millefolium, Eriogonum umbellatum,
Antennaria rosea*, and *Geranium viscosissimum* are common. Trees are
uncommon in stands of this alliance, but *Pinus ponderosa, Cercocarpus
ledifolius, Populus tremuloides, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus
scopulorum, Pinus albicaulis*, and *Abies lasiocarpa* may occasionally
occur.

**Dynamics:** Complex ecological interactions between fire regimes,
grazing history, and climate patterns result in equally complex patterns
of species structure and composition in *Artemisia tridentata*
shrublands. These present corresponding difficulties in the
classification of these shrublands, which have been compounded by the
influence of human settlement and agricultural patterns. What follows is
a summary of some of the influences of altered fire regimes and grazing
history on *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands and shrub herbaceous
vegetation.

*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* shrub herbaceous plant associations
may represent either more moist or less disturbed communities within the
complex of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* shrublands and
shrub-steppe. Shrub densities typically increase with overgrazing of the
bunchgrass component or with increasing summer drought (West 1983c).
There is considerable debate over whether present shrub-dominated stands
are actually degraded \'steppe\' (e.g., shrub herbaceous physiognomy),
and if the stands will return to steppe with changes in grazing and fire
management. *Artemisia tridentata* is inhibited by fire, and excessive
grazing may decrease fire frequency due to consumption of herbaceous
forage, resulting in increased shrub density. Conversely, invasion by
non-native annual grasses (e.g., *Bromus tectorum* at lower elevations)
may increase fire frequency sufficiently to eliminate the shrubs from
the stands (Hironaka et al. 1983). With a change in fire frequency,
species composition will be altered as well (West 1983c). With a high
fire frequency, every 2-5 years, perennial grasses and shrubs are
eliminated and non-native annual grasses dominate. At fire-return
intervals of 10-30 years, short-lived resprouting shrubs such as
*Chrysothamnus* or *Tetradymia* spp. dominate. At fire intervals of
30-70 years, a mixture of perennial bunch grasses and shrubs is
maintained. Finally, in the complete absence of fire, deep-rooted shrubs
such as *Artemisia tridentata* may become dominant.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This shrub herbaceous alliance occurs in mountainous regions
from eastern Oregon and Washington, across the Great Basin in Nevada and
southern Idaho, and in Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. It has not been
reported from California, Utah, Arizona, or New Mexico, but it is very
likely to occur in these states at high elevations. In addition, the
alliance probably extends north into Alberta and British Columbia,
Canada.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** AB, BC, CA?, CO, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT?, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 4:P, 6:C, 7:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 20:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331E:C?, 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC,
342F:CC, 342G:CC, 342I:CC, M242A:CC, M242B:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC,
M331A:CC, M331B:CC, M331D:CC, M331H:CC, M331I:CC, M331J:CC, M332A:CC,
M332B:CC, M332C:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC, M333A:CC,
M333B:CC, M333C:CC, M333D:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Glacier, Grand
Teton, Rockefeller); USFS (Bighorn, Hells Canyon, Medicine Bow,
Sawtooth, Shoshone, Wallowa-Whitman)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Bramble-Brodahl 1978, Despain 1973a, Francis 1983, Hess
1981, Hess and Wasser 1982, Hironaka et al. 1983, Hurd 1961, Jensen et
al. 1988a, Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992, Johnston 1987, Komarkova 1986,
Kuchler 1964, Lewis 1971, Lewis 1975a, Mooney 1985, Mueggler and Stewart
1980, Sabinske 1978, Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Shiflet 1994, Smith
1966, Strong 1980, Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Tiedemann et al. 1987,
Tweit and Houston 1980, West 1983c

#### CEGL001532--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Carex geyeri* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Geyer\'s Sedge Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#mountain-big-sagebrush-geyers-sedge-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-125 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This shrubland association is present in southern and
central Idaho, western Wyoming, northeastern Oregon, and central
Colorado. Stands are found above 1524 m (5000 feet) elevation
predominately on southerly aspects of moderate to steep mountain ridges
and slopes. In Colorado, the association is found on gentle slopes of
westerly aspects. Soils are of colluvium deposits with a moderate to
high percentage of course fragments. *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana* dominates the shrub overstory. Commonly the shrub
*Symphoricarpos oreophilus* may be present but with low cover. The
understory is dominated by *Carex geyeri*. Common herbaceous species
include *Arenaria aculeata, Eriogonum heracleoides, Eriogonum
umbellatum, Festuca idahoensis, Hesperostipa comata ssp. comata*, and
*Lupinus argenteus*.

**Classification Comments:** This association (1 plot) may also occur in
west-central Colorado within Black Canyon National Park. The stand has a
high percentage cover of *Purshia tridentata* and has yet to be
crosswalked to the NVC. Not sure what Colorado reference is being used
for the Pitkin County reference. A plot from Black Canyon NP Vegetation
Classification and mapping project (data collected in 2003) has been
classified as this type. Not sure why Johnston (1987) was cited for this
association at one time; the type is not listed there.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Achnatherum occidentale*
    Shrubland (CEGL001033)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana/Carex geyeri* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana - Carex geyeri* Alpine
    sagebrush - sedge SS-49-11 (Hall 1973) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana - Symphoricarpos oreophilus /
    Carex geyeri* Habitat Type (Hironaka et al. 1983) I

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Carex geyeri* Plant
    Association (Johnson and Simon 1987) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Carex geyeri* Plant
    Association (Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs from 1551 to 2590 m (5090-8500
feet) on ridgetop, upper or middle slopes or occasionally valley floors;
on foothills, canyon slopes, or rough and rolling terrain. It occurs on
moderate to steep slopes (3-80%) and on southerly aspects. Soils are
sandy loams to clay loams. Ground cover is either duff (20-70%),
pavement (3-60%), or gravels (0-20%).

**Vegetation:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* is the dominant
shrub with 20-50% cover. Other shrubs than can be absent to abundant
include *Purshia tridentata, Symphoricarpos oreophilus, Symphoricarpos
rotundifolius*, and *Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus*. The herbaceous layer
is sparse to abundant, with *Carex geyeri* the most abundant at 10-50%
cover. Other graminoids that may be present include *Hesperostipa
comata, Bromus carinatus, Festuca arizonica*, and *Carex hoodii*. Common
forb species include *Linanthus nuttallii, Balsamorhiza sagittata,
Arenaria aculeata, Eriogonum heracleoides, Eriogonum umbellatum,
Achillea millefolium*, and *Lupinus argenteus*.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** J.J. Miller, mod. G. Kittel **Version:**
19-Aug-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 17-Mar-2004

**GReasons:** This shrubland association is present in central to
southern Idaho (Snake River Plains and Sawtooth National Forest),
northeastern Oregon (Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Blue
Mountains, and Ochoco Mountains), and central-east Colorado (Pitkin
County). Stands are located predominately on southerly aspects of
moderate to steep mountain ridges and slopes above 1524 m (5000 feet)
elevation. In Colorado, stands are located on gentle slopes of westerly
aspects. Soils are of colluvium deposits with a moderate to high
percentage of course fragments. The number, condition, and size of
stands are degraded by intensive livestock grazing and bedding,
introduction of exotic species, and alteration of the fire regime.
Suppression of fire has lead to conifer encroachment of these stands.
Land-use conversion is a concerning threat in Colorado.

**Ranking Author:** J.J. Miller **Version:** 17-May-2004

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This shrubland association is present on the Snake River
Plains and Pioneer Mountains of southern Idaho, central Idaho, and in
the Blue and Ochoco mountains, and Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
in northeastern Oregon. It also occurs in central Colorado in Pitkin
County.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:SU, ID:S3, NV?, OR:S3, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 4:P, 6:C, 9:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, M242C:CC, M331D:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Grand Teton); USFS
(Hells Canyon, Sawtooth, Wallowa-Whitman)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hall
1973, Hironaka et al. 1983, Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992, Johnson and
Simon 1987, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001531--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca campestris* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Prairie Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#mountain-big-sagebrush-prairie-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Rough Fescue Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-rough-fescue-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Canada, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.V. Cooper

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

-   Northwestern Great Plains Mixedgrass Prairie (CES303.674)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This big sagebrush shrub prairie type is found in Montana,
Washington, southwestern Alberta, and adjacent British Columbia. Stands
in Montana are usually found north of 46 degrees N latitude and between
1036 and 1950 m (3400-6400 feet) on southerly exposures with less than
40% slope, as well as alluvial flats. Precipitation within this zone
ranges from 15 to more than 40 inches per year. Moderately deep soils
are derived from a variety of parent materials. Its distribution outside
Montana includes lower elevation sites (to 610 m \[2000 feet\]) within
the Okanogan Valley (Washington) and the Colville country north of
Spokane. The high productivity of this type results in comparatively
little (\<20%) exposed rock or soil. The vegetation description is based
primarily on Montana occurrences. This association usually occurs as
large patches in a mosaic with fescue grasslands and *Pseudotsuga
menziesii*- or *Pinus flexilis*-dominated forests. Shrub layer dominance
(10-30% canopy cover, average 20%) by *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana* characterizes the upper elevation examples of this type.
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* has been noted as a canopy
dominant in lower elevation occurrences associated with central Montana
ranges isolated within the Great Plains. As little as 5% canopy cover of
the highly palatable *Festuca campestris* may be diagnostic for the
type, but generally it dominates the herbaceous layer, ranging in canopy
cover from 10% to as much as 70-80% on the least disturbed, most mesic
sites. Other important and high-constancy (\>75%) grasses are *Festuca
idahoensis, Koeleria macrantha, Pseudoroegneria spicata*, and *Poa
cusickii*; the cover of *Pseudoroegneria spicata* and *Festuca
idahoensis* may exceed that of *Festuca campestris* on more intensively
grazed sites. On overgrazed sites this type may be recognized by
scattered remnant clumps of *Festuca campestris*. The forb layer is
generally both diverse and abundant, constituting upwards of 20% of the
standing crop biomass; those of high constancy include *Arenaria
congesta, Eriogonum umbellatum, Antennaria microphylla, Geranium
viscosissimum*, and *Cerastium arvense*.

**Classification Comments:** This association, as now defined,
potentially constitutes a combination of vegetation types recognized by
the following dominant shrub taxa: *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana,
Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, and even *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. tridentata*, in the most mesic bottomland sites; each subspecies
deserves to be recognized, whenever possible, at the association level.
Mueggler and Stewart (1980), the most authoritative source for this
syntaxon, were well aware that several big sagebrush taxa were involved
and that this variability probably accounted for the broad elevational
range (1100-1950 m \[3600-6400 feet\]) exhibited by the type. *Artemisia
tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
(CEGL001530) occurs outside the range limits of *Festuca campestris*,
but the abiotic settings and species composition of the two types are
very similar.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001530)---occurs outside the range limits of
    *Festuca campestris*, but the abiotic settings and species
    composition of the two types are very similar.

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001533)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Festuca scabrella* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Festuca scabrella* Habitat Type (Mueggler and
    Stewart 1980) B

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Within Montana this type is usually found north of 46
degrees N latitude between 1036 and 1950 m (3400-6400 feet) on southerly
exposures with less than 40% slope, as well as alluvial flats (Mueggler
and Stewart 1980). Precipitation within this zone ranges from 15 to more
than 40 inches per year. Moderately deep soils are derived from a
variety of parent materials. Its distribution outside Montana includes
lower elevation sites (to 610 m \[2000 feet\]) within the Okanogan
Valley (Washington) and the Colville country north of Spokane. This
type\'s high productivity results in comparatively little (\<20%)
exposed rock or soil.

**Vegetation:** The following description based primarily on Montana
occurrences. This association usually occurs as large patches in a
mosaic with fescue grasslands and *Pseudotsuga menziesii*- or *Pinus
flexilis*-dominated forests. Shrub layer dominance (10-60% canopy cover,
average 20%) by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* characterizes the
upper elevation examples of this type. *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* has been noted as a canopy dominant in lower elevation
occurrences associated with central Montana ranges isolated within the
Great Plains. Mueggler and Stewart (1980) recognized as little as 5%
canopy cover of the highly palatable *Festuca campestris* as diagnostic
for the type, but generally it dominates the herbaceous layer, ranging
in canopy cover from 10% to as much as 70-80% on the least disturbed,
most mesic sites. Other important and high-constancy (\>75%) grasses are
*Festuca idahoensis, Koeleria macrantha, Pseudoroegneria spicata*, and
*Poa cusickii*. Note that the cover of *Pseudoroegneria spicata* and
*Festuca idahoensis* may exceed that of *Festuca campestris* on
intensively grazed sites. On overgrazed sites this type may be
recognized by scattered remnant clumps of *Festuca campestris*. The forb
layer is generally both diverse and abundant, constituting upwards of
20% of the standing crop biomass; those of high constancy include
*Arenaria congesta, Eriogonum umbellatum, Antennaria microphylla,
Geranium viscosissimum*, and *Cerastium arvense*.

**Dynamics:** The herbaceous component of this type is well-adapted to
periodic burning, but *Artemisia tridentata* is very fire sensitive and
must reestablish by seed, which in some cases has been noted to require
at least 10 years to regain a foothold in the community and longer yet
to reach its former coverage.

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.V. Cooper, mod. G. Kittel **Version:**
14-Jan-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3Q **GRank Review Date:** 13-Dec-1999

**GReasons:** Stipulating the particular subspecies of *Artemisia
tridentata* that is diagnostic for this plant community is crucial to
establishing the significance of its association with
environment/habitat (and hence its rank).

**Ranking Author:** S.V. Cooper **Version:** 1-Jun-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association has been described from Montana, Washington,
southwestern Alberta, and British Columbia.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** AB, BC, MT:S3, WA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 7:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331E:C?, M332B:C?, M332C:CC, M332D:CC,
M332E:CP, M333A:CC, M333B:CC, M333C:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Glacier)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hodgkinson and Young 1973, McNab and Avers 1994, Mueggler and Stewart
1980, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Willms et al. 1985

#### CEGL001533--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Mountain Big Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#mountain-big-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-126 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
Canada, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group, mod. G. Kittel

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Montane Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.785)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is widespread in mountainous areas across
the western U.S. The shrubland can form large, continuous stands on
mid-elevation mountain slopes and foothills, and can extend above lower
treeline as patches within montane or subalpine coniferous forests.
Sites are variable and range from flats to steep slopes to ridgetops
with deep to shallow rocky soil. The vegetation is characterized by an
open (\<25% cover on average) shrub layer of *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana*, but generally high cover of perennial graminoids (\>20% total
cover). Associated shrubs include *Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia
rigida, Ribes cereum, Purshia tridentata, Prunus virginiana*, and
*Tetradymia canescens*. The herbaceous layer is typically abundant and
dominated by perennial graminoids. The most common species is the
bunchgrass *Festuca idahoensis*. Other locally important species include
*Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca thurberi, Bromus carinatus, Elymus
elymoides, Elymus trachycaulus, Koeleria macrantha, Achnatherum
occidentale (= Stipa occidentalis)*, and *Poa secunda*. Forb canopy
cover and species composition are variable. Characteristic forb species
include *Castilleja, Potentilla, Erigeron, Phlox, Astragalus, Geum,
Lupinus*, and *Eriogonum*. Other forbs common, if less frequent, include
*Balsamorhiza sagittata, Achillea millefolium, Eriogonum umbellatum,
Antennaria rosea*, and *Geranium viscosissimum*. Some authors have noted
different phases based on dominance of forb species. All phases are
included within this one herbaceous shrubland concept. Trees are
uncommon but individuals of *Pinus ponderosa, Cercocarpus ledifolius,
Populus tremuloides, Juniperus occidentalis, Pinus albicaulis*, and
*Abies lasiocarpa* may occasionally occur.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001530)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca campestris* Shrub
    Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001531)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Leucopoa kingii* Shrubland
    (CEGL001025)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type (Mueggler
    and Stewart 1980) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis / Stipa
    occidentalis* association (Mooney 1985) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis*
    Community Type (Jensen et al. 1988a) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat
    Type (Lewis 1975a) =

-   *Artemisia vaseyana / Festuca idahoensis* Habitat Type (Hironaka et
    al. 1983) = Big Sagebrush complex (Lewis 1971) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*-dominated shrub
herbaceous association occupies the coolest and moistest climate zone of
the *Artemisia tridentata* shrubland and shrub herbaceous complex. This
open shrubland often occurs above lower treeline as patches within
montane or subalpine coniferous forests. The climate regime is cool,
semi-arid to subhumid, with yearly precipitation ranging from 25-60 cm.
Much of the yearly precipitation falls as snow, which may cover the
ground for long periods in winter. Temperatures are continental with
large annual and diurnal variation. The elevation range for this
alliance is wide, from about 1060 m (3500 feet) in eastern Oregon and
Washington, 1800-2400 m (6000-8000 feet) on low mountain slopes and
valleys in Montana, to well over 3000 m (9850 feet) in the mountains of
northern Nevada, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado. Landscape
positions are variable as well, but primarily are deep-soiled to stony
flats, valley bottoms, flat terraces, ridges, nearly flat ridgetops, and
mountain slopes. All aspects are represented, and slopes range from
nearly flat to very steep. Soils generally are moderately deep to deep,
somewhat well-drained, and of loam, sandy loam, clay loam, or gravelly
loam textural classes, often having a substantial volume of coarse
fragments. The soils are derived from a variety of parent materials,
although sandstones, limestones, basalts, and crystalline rocks are
commonest. In some cases, soils supporting stands of this association
are unstable and prone to mass movement. In subalpine environments,
these shrub herbaceous communities are found on deeper soils than
*Artemisia arbuscula* subalpine shrublands. Trees are uncommon but
individuals of *Pinus ponderosa, Cercocarpus ledifolius, Populus
tremuloides, Juniperus occidentalis, Juniperus scopulorum, Pinus
albicaulis*, and *Abies lasiocarpa* may occasionally occur.

Adjacent vegetation is highly variable. In the Great Basin and Rocky
Mountains, adjacent communities typically include *Pinus ponderosa*
forests, *Pinus - Juniperus* or *Cercocarpus ledifolius* woodlands,
*Populus tremuloides* forests, *Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia rigida,
Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, and *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
tridentata* shrublands, and herbaceous meadows. In the Blue Mountains,
East Cascade Mountains, and in the Okanogan Highlands these shrublands
are found in a matrix with *Juniperus occidentalis, Pinus ponderosa,
Pinus albicaulis*, and *Abies lasiocarpa* forests and woodlands. In
Montana, adjacent vegetation includes *Festuca idahoensis* and
*Pseudoroegneria spicata* grasslands.

**Vegetation:** This herbaceous shrubland is characterized by an open
(10-40% cover) shrub layer of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*, but
generally high cover of perennial graminoids (\>20% total cover).
Associated shrubs can include *Artemisia arbuscula, Artemisia rigida,
Ribes cereum, Purshia tridentata, Prunus virginiana, Symphoricarpos
oreophilus*, and *Tetradymia canescens*. The herbaceous layer is
typically abundant and dominated by perennial graminoids. The most
common species is the bunchgrass *Festuca idahoensis*. Other locally
important species include *Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca thurberi,
Bromus carinatus, Elymus elymoides, Elymus trachycaulus, Koeleria
macrantha, Achnatherum occidentale (= Stipa occidentalis)*, and *Poa
secunda*. Forb canopy cover and species composition are variable;
species of *Castilleja, Potentilla, Erigeron, Phlox, Astragalus, Geum,
Lupinus, Collinsia, Collomia* and *Eriogonum* are characteristic, and
*Balsamorhiza sagittata, Achillea millefolium, Eriogonum umbellatum,
Antennaria rosea*, and *Geranium viscosissimum* are common. Trees are
uncommon but individuals of *Pinus ponderosa, Cercocarpus ledifolius,
Populus tremuloides, Juniperus occidentalis, Pinus albicaulis*, and
*Abies lasiocarpa* may occasionally occur. Diagnostic of this shrub
herbaceous association is the relatively sparse *Artemisia tridentata
ssp. vaseyana* shrub layer (\<25% cover on average) with an abundant
graminoid layer.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G. Kittel **Version:** 19-Aug-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This is a wide-ranging association, known throughout the
northern western U.S. It occurs in eastern Oregon, Nevada, Utah,
Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, possibly occurring further north into
Alberta and British Columbia. It may also occur in eastern California.

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** AB?, BC?, CA?, CO:S3S4, ID:S4, MT:S4, NV:S3?, OR:S3,
UT?, WA, WY:S3S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 7:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 341:C, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC,
342I:CC, M242A:CC, M242B:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M331A:CC, M331B:CC,
M331D:CC, M331H:CC, M331I:CC, M331J:CC, M332A:CC, M332B:CC, M332C:CC,
M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC, M333A:CC, M333D:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Glacier, Grand Teton, Rockefeller); USFS
(Bighorn, Medicine Bow, Shoshone)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Bramble-Brodahl 1978,
Despain 1973a, Driscoll et al. 1984, Francis 1983, Hess 1981, Hess and
Wasser 1982, Hironaka et al. 1983, Hurd 1961, Jensen et al. 1988a,
Johnston 1987, Jones and Ogle 2000, Komarkova 1986, Lewis 1971, Lewis
1975a, Mooney 1985, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Sabinske 1978, Smith
1966, Strong 1980, Terwilliger and Smith 1978, Tiedemann et al. 1987,
Tweit and Houston 1980, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1527--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Wyoming Big Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, Midwest, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This dry steppe alliance is widespread across the northern
part of the western U.S. and southwestern Canada from the Columbia River
Basin across the Great Basin to the Rocky Mountains and northwestern
Great Plains. Stands occur on flat to steeply sloping upland sites.
Soils are variable but tend to be well-drained. The vegetation is
characterized by a moderate to dense herbaceous layer dominated by
perennial graminoids with *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*
dominating or codominating the open to moderately dense (10-40% cover)
short-shrub layer (\<2 m tall). The herbaceous layer generally has \>20%
cover of perennial graminoids which forms the matrix surrounding the
shrubs or occurs in patches. The most widespread and common species are
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*, which occurs from the Columbia Basin to the
northern Rockies, and *Pascopyrum smithii*, which is more common in the
northwestern Great Plains. Associated shrubs include *Artemisia frigida,
Atriplex gardneri, Ericameria nauseosa, Gutierrezia sarothrae,
Sarcobatus vermiculatus*, and species of *Chrysothamnus* or
*Tetradymia*. Trees are uncommon, but individuals of various conifers
may occasionally occur. The herbaceous layer is typically abundant and
dominated by perennial graminoids. Other locally abundant grass
associates include *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Achnatherum
thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana), Elymus lanceolatus, Carex filifolia,
Bouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua gracilis, Koeleria macrantha,
Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*, and *Leymus ambiguus*.
Forbs form a minor and highly variable portion of this vegetation.
Mosses and lichens may also be important. Diagnostic of this alliance is
a moderate to abundant (\>20% cover) perennial graminoid layer with an
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*-dominated (or codominated)
shrub layer that has 10-40% cover. *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* must contribute at least 40% of the total shrub cover
(relative cover) if the shrub layer is mixed.

**Classification Comments:** More survey and classification work is
needed to fully describe the range of this alliance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*) Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1522)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* (ssp. *tridentata*, ssp. *xericensis*)
    Shrubland Alliance (A.830)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1521)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *spiciformis* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2555)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1526)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana* Shrubland Alliance (A.831)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance
    (A.832)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** This alliance is distinguished from
vegetation in other similar *Artemisia tridentata* alliances by the
nominal subspecies of *Artemisia tridentata* and by a significant
perennial graminoid layer (\>20% cover) in the shrub herbaceous
alliances. This alliance contains stands dominated (or codominated) by
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, which must contribute at least
40% of the total shrub cover (relative cover) to be included in this
alliance in mixed-shrub stands to be included in this alliance.
Herbaceous cover is abundant and often greater than shrub cover. Some
stands in the *Artemisia tridentata* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1521)
may be very similar.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Big Sagebrush Series (Sawyer and Keeler-Wolf 1995) I

-   SRM Cover Type #314 - Big Sagebrush-Bluebunch Wheatgrass
    (Shiflet 1994) I

-   SRM Cover Type #315 - Big Sagebrush-Idaho Fescue (Shiflet 1994) I

-   SRM Cover Type #612 - Sagebrush - Grass (Shiflet 1994) B

-   Western Shrub and Grasslands Combinations: 55: Sagebrush-Steppe
    (*Artemisia-Agropyron*) (Kuchler 1964) I

-   Western Shrub: 38: Great Basin Sagebrush (*Artemisia*)
    (Kuchler 1964) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The associations in this alliance are found from the
Columbia River Basin south and east across the Great Basin to the
northern Rocky Mountains and northwestern Great Plains. Climates range
from semi-arid in the western Great Basin to subhumid in the Rocky
Mountains and northern plains. The amount and reliability of
growing-season moisture increase eastward and with increasing elevation.
The associations in this alliance occur in somewhat wetter areas of the
range of *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, generally with over
25 cm annual precipitation or with a significant proportion falling in
the growing season. These communities occur at elevations of less than
1000 m in the Columbia Basin and northern Great Plains to over 2500 m in
the Rocky Mountains and Great Basin ranges. The alliance occurs on flat
to steeply sloping upland sites. Sites with little slope tend to have
deep soils while those with steeper slopes have shallow to moderately
deep soils (USFS 1992). Soil texture is loam, sandy loam, or clay loam
(Hansen and Hoffman 1988), which allows ample shallow rainfall storage
and percolation of snowmelt. Coarse fragments are common in the soil
profile. In eastern Idaho and western Wyoming, this vegetation occupies
somewhat dry, low-elevation sites in comparison to the other *Artemisia
tridentata* subspecies. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata* or
*Artemisia cana* occupy deep alluvial soils of drainage bottoms in this
low-elevation zone, and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* occupies
cooler, moister upland sites at higher elevation. In eastern Montana and
Wyoming, there is a broad ecotone between *Artemisia* steppe and
shortgrass or mixed-grass prairie. Across the range of the alliance,
adjacent vegetation types include *Atriplex confertifolia,
Chrysothamnus* spp., and *Artemisia nova* shrublands, *Populus
tremuloides, Pinus ponderosa, Pinus contorta, Abies grandis*, or
*Pseudotsuga menziesii* forests, *Pinus - Juniperus* woodlands,
shortgrass and mixed-grass prairie, or mesic montane meadow communities.

**Vegetation:** This broadly distributed alliance is found in the
western United States and southwestern Canada on dry steppes. The
vegetation is characterized by a moderate to dense herbaceous layer
dominated by perennial graminoids with *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* dominating or codominating the open to moderately dense
(10-40% cover) short-shrub layer (\<2 m tall). The shrub stratum is
typically 0.3-0.7 m tall, but in Washington often up to 2 m in height.
*Artemisia frigida, Atriplex gardneri, Ericameria nauseosa, Gutierrezia
sarothrae, Sarcobatus vermiculatus*, and species of *Chrysothamnus* or
*Tetradymia* are common shrub associates. Where there is supplemental
moisture or where the vegetation grades into forest, emergent
needle-leaved evergreen or cold-deciduous trees may be scattered through
these shrub-steppe communities. Recurrent tree associates include *Pinus
ponderosa, Pinus contorta, Pinus flexilis, Pinus edulis, Juniperus
scopulorum, Juniperus osteosperma, Juniperus occidentalis*, and *Populus
tremuloides*.

The herbaceous layer generally has \>20% cover of perennial graminoids
which forms the matrix surrounding the shrubs or occurs in patches. The
most widespread and common species are *Pseudoroegneria spicata*, which
occurs from the Columbia Basin to the northern Rockies, and *Pascopyrum
smithii*, which is more common in the northwestern Great Plains. Other
locally abundant grass associates include *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata), Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)* (in the western
portion of the range), *Elymus lanceolatus, Carex filifolia, Bouteloua
curtipendula, Bouteloua gracilis, Koeleria macrantha, Achnatherum
hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*, and *Leymus ambiguus*. Forbs form
a minor and highly variable portion of this vegetation. Recurrent
species include *Achillea millefolium, Camelina microcarpa, Balsamorhiza
sagittata, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Erigeron* spp., *Opuntia* spp., and
*Phlox* spp. Mosses and lichens, such as *Selaginella densa* and
*Tortula ruralis*, may occur on bare ground. Diagnostic of this alliance
is a moderate (\>20% cover) perennial graminoid layer with an *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*-dominated (or codominated) shrub layer
that has 10-40% cover. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* must
contribute at least 40% of the total shrub cover (relative cover) if the
shrub layer is mixed.

**Dynamics:** Complex ecological interactions between fire regimes,
grazing history, and climate patterns result in equally complex patterns
of species structure and composition. These present corresponding
difficulties in the classification of *Artemisia tridentata* shrublands,
which have been compounded by the influence of human settlement and
agricultural patterns. What follows is a summary of some of the
influences of altered fire regimes, and grazing history on *Artemisia
tridentata* shrublands and shrub herbaceous vegetation that can result
in the conversion of stands of this alliance into stands of *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* Shrubland Alliance (A.832) or an annual
grassland.

*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* shrub herbaceous communities
may represent either moister or less disturbed examples of the
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* shrubland complex. Shrub
densities typically increase with overgrazing of the bunchgrass
component or with increasing summer drought (West 1983c). *Artemisia
tridentata* is inhibited by fire, and excessive grazing may decrease
fire frequency due to consumption of herbaceous forage, resulting in
increased shrub density. Conversely, invasion by non-native annual
grasses (e.g., *Bromus tectorum, Bromus japonicus*) may increase fire
frequency sufficiently to eliminate the shrubs from the stands
(Daubenmire 1970). With a change in fire frequency, species composition
will be altered as well (West 1983c). With a high fire frequency, every
2-5 years, perennial grasses and shrubs are eliminated and non-native
annual grasses dominate. At fire-return intervals of 10-30 years,
short-lived resprouting shrubs such as *Chrysothamnus* or *Tetradymia*
spp. dominate. At fire intervals of 30-70 years, a mixture of perennial
bunch grasses and shrubs is maintained. Finally, in the complete absence
of fire, deep-rooted shrubs such as *Artemisia tridentata* become the
theoretical dominants.

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is reported from northeastern California,
eastern Oregon and southeastern Washington, across the northern Great
Basin and dry habitats of the Rocky Mountains to the northern Great
Plains of Montana, Wyoming and North and South Dakota. Stands are also
reported from the intermountain parks of Colorado, and from Alberta,
Canada. It has not been reported from Utah, Arizona, or New Mexico but
may occur there.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** AZ?, BC, CA, CO, ID, MT, ND, NM?, NV, OR, SD, UT?, WA,
WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 19:C, 20:C, 25:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331A:CP, 331D:CC, 331E:C?, 331F:CC, 331G:CC,
331H:CC, 341A:CP, 341B:CP, 341C:CC, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC,
342E:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC,
M331A:CC, M331B:CC, M331D:CC, M331H:CC, M331I:CC, M331J:CC, M332D:CC,
M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC, M334A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Theodore Roosevelt); USFS (Custer, Medicine Bow,
Shoshone, Thunder Basin)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1982b, Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Bear
Creek Uranium Mine Application n.d., Brown 1971, Chappell et al. 1997,
Comer 1999, Cotter-Ferguson Project n.d., Daubenmire 1970, Earth
Resource Technology n.d., Fisser 1964, Fisser 1970, Francis 1983, Giese
1975, Gross 1955, Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Hess 1981, Keammerer 1987,
Knight 1994, Knight et al. 1987, Kuchler 1964, Leucite Hills Mine
Application n.d., Lucky McMine Application n.d., Lundberg 1977, Marr et
al. 1979, McArthur and Welch 1986, Northwest Resources Co. 1981, Sawyer
and Keeler-Wolf 1995, Seminoe I Mine Application n.d., Shiflet 1994,
Skull Point Mine Application n.d., Skull Point Mine Permit Renewal n.d.,
Smith unpubl. data b, Steger 1970, Strong 1980, Sweetwater Uranium
Project n.d., Terwilliger et al. 1979a, Tiedemann et al. 1987, Tweit and
Houston 1980, USFS 1992, West 1983c

#### CEGL001534--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis* / Mixed Grasses Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Mixed Grasses Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-mixed-grasses-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Mixed Grasses Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-mixed-grasses-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

-   Central Mixedgrass Prairie (CES303.659)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*/Mixed grass (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G5 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY:S5

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 342A:CC, 342F:CC, 342G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bear Creek Uranium Mine Application n.d., Bourgeron and
Engelking 1994, Cotter-Ferguson Project n.d., Driscoll et al. 1984,
Earth Resource Technology n.d., Keammerer 1987, Skull Point Mine
Application n.d., Skull Point Mine Permit Renewal n.d., Sweetwater
Uranium Project n.d., Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001047--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pascopyrum smithii* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Wyoming Sagebrush / Western Wheatgrass Shrubland* Classif. Resp.: West {#wyoming-sagebrush-western-wheatgrass-shrubland-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This Wyoming big sagebrush type is found throughout the
northern Great Plains and adjacent basins, Black Hills, and Rocky
Mountains of the United States. Stands occur on gently rolling uplands
or upper parts of stream terraces and drainageways. Drier examples may
be on more exposed slope positions. Soils are moderately deep clays,
clay loam, silt loam and loam. Soil moisture conditions are relatively
mesic. Soil pH ranges from 5.8 to 7.8. The vegetation contains an open
short-shrub layer, approximately 0.5 m tall, dominated by
microphyllous-leaved shrubs, and a dense herbaceous layer dominated by
medium-tall graminoids. Shrub cover averages between 15% and 30%.
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* dominates the shrub layer. The
dense herbaceous layer has a canopy cover of over 75%. *Pascopyrum
smithii* is the leading dominant. Important associates include *Koeleria
macrantha, Poa secunda*, and *Nassella viridula (= Stipa viridula)*. In
drier or more heavily grazed phases, *Bouteloua gracilis, Hesperostipa
comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Carex filifolia* may be more common,
along with the succulent *Opuntia polyacantha*. Forbs contribute low
cover, often less than 10%, and are typically of low constancy. More
constant species (\>50%) include *Artemisia frigida, Sphaeralcea
coccinea*, and *Vicia americana*. Grassy leaf litter covers over 75% of
the ground; stones and bare soil comprise the remainder. Nonvascular
plants are rare.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *tridentata / Pascopyrum smithii -
    (Elymus lanceolatus)* Shrubland (CEGL001017)

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pascopyrum smithii*
    Shrubland (CEGL001028)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata - Agropyron smithii* Habitat Type (Hansen et
    al. 1980) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata - Bouteloua gracilis* habitat type
    (Hirsch 1985) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Agropyron smithii* (Thilenius et al. 1995) F
    *Artemisia tridentata / Agropyron smithii* Habitat Type (Hansen et
    al. 1984) =

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Bouteloua gracilis - Agropyron smithii*
    (Thilenius et al. 1995) F

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Pascopyrum smithii*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:III.A.2.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands occur on gently rolling uplands or upper parts
of stream terraces and drainageways. Drier examples may be on more
exposed slope positions. Soils are moderately deep clays, clay loam,
silt loam and loam. Soil moisture conditions are relatively mesic. Soil
pH ranges from 5.8 to 7.8 (Hirsch 1985, Hansen and Hoffman 1988,
Thilenius et al. 1995).

**Vegetation:** The vegetation contains an open short-shrub layer,
approximately 0.5 m tall, dominated by microphyllous-leaved shrubs, and
a dense herbaceous layer dominated by medium-tall graminoids. Shrub
cover averages between 15 and 30% (Hirsch 1985, Hansen and Hoffman 1988,
Thilenius et al. 1995). *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*
dominates the shrub layer. The dense herbaceous layer has a canopy cover
of over 75%. *Pascopyrum smithii* is the leading dominant. Important
associates include *Koeleria macrantha, Poa secunda*, and *Nassella
viridula (= Stipa viridula)*. In drier or more heavily grazed phases,
*Bouteloua gracilis, Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*, and *Carex
filifolia* may be more common, along with the succulent *Opuntia
polyacantha*. Forbs contribute low cover, often less than 10%, and are
typically of low constancy. More constant species (\>50%) include
*Artemisia frigida, Sphaeralcea coccinea*, and *Vicia americana*. Grassy
leaf litter covers over 75% of the ground; stones and bare soil comprise
the remainder. Nonvascular plants are rare (Hirsch 1985, Hansen and
Hoffman 1988, Thilenius et al. 1995).

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 24-Aug-1999

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 28-Sep-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This Wyoming Big Sagebrush type is found throughout the
northern Great Plains and adjacent basins, Black Hills, and Rocky
Mountains of the United States, particularly in Colorado and Wyoming.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S3S4, MT:S3S4, ND?, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 20:C, 25:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 341C:CC, 342A:C?,
342G:CC, M334A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Theodore Roosevelt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1982b, Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Bear
Creek Uranium Mine Application n.d., Bourgeron and Engelking 1994,
Cotter-Ferguson Project n.d., Driscoll et al. 1984, Earth Resource
Technology n.d., Ellis and Hackney 1981, Francis 1983, Hansen and
Hoffman 1988, Hansen et al. 1980, Hansen et al. 1984, Heidel and Jean
2002, Hirsch 1985, Keammerer 1987, Skull Point Mine Application n.d.,
Skull Point Mine Permit Renewal n.d., Strong 1980, Sweetwater Uranium
Project 1978, Thilenius et al. 1995, Tiedemann et al. 1987, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001535--*Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Wyoming Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#wyoming-big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrub Prairie* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrub-prairie-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Canada, Midwest, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.777)

-   Great Basin Xeric Mixed Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.774)

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This bunchgrass vegetation type with an open Wyoming big
sagebrush shrub layer occurs in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Idaho,
Washington, Oregon (apparently), Nevada, and British Columbia, Canada.
It probably also occurs in western North Dakota and Utah, and it may
occur in South Dakota. Stands occur on moderate to steep slopes at low
to mid elevations, and on a variety of soils. Throughout the range of
this association, the vegetation consists of an open to moderately dense
shrub layer (about 10-25% canopy cover) dominated by *Artemisia
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, and a herbaceous layer dominated by
*Pseudoroegneria spicata* with lesser amounts of *Poa secunda*
(sometimes a codominant grass). From the Great Plains westward to
eastern Idaho and south to Colorado, the sagebrush seldom exceeds 0.5 m
in height, but in western Idaho and Washington, the shrubs typically are
1 m tall. Other shrubs (especially *Chrysothamnus* sp.) and herbaceous
species (especially *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*) usually are
present. *Festuca idahoensis* is absent or present in small amounts. The
stands in the eastern half of the geographic range often contain small
amounts of *Gutierrezia sarothrae, Artemisia frigida, Sphaeralcea
coccinea, Phlox hoodii, Koeleria macrantha*, and *Opuntia polyacantha*.
Less constant species are *Bouteloua* spp. (especially *Bouteloua
gracilis), Carex filifolia*, and *Pascopyrum smithii*. Missing from
these stands is *Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)*. In the
western half of the geographic range, the vegetation generally lacks the
associated species listed above and often contains *Antennaria dimorpha*
and *Achnatherum thurberianum*. In addition, the stands in Washington
often contain large amounts of crustose lichens as ground cover.

**Classification Comments:** Vegetation types that fit this association
have been described from the Great Plains of western North Dakota,
eastern Montana, and northeastern Wyoming on the east to southern
interior British Columbia on the west, and as far south as northern
Nevada and central Colorado. Based on differences in species
composition, this association might be split into two associations or
subassociations. The occurrences from the Great Plains west as far as
northwestern Colorado, western Wyoming, and western Montana apparently
belong to one association characterized by the presence of *Bouteloua*
spp., *Carex filifolia, Koeleria macrantha, Gutierrezia sarothrae,
Artemisia frigida*, and *Opuntia polyacantha*, and by the absence of
*Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)*. Occurrences from
southern Idaho, northern Nevada, eastern Oregon, eastern Washington, and
British Columbia might belong to a different type characterized by the
presence of *Achnatherum thurberianum* and by the absence of the other
species listed above. The division between these two associations
probably would be made in Idaho. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis
/ Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001535) has
a thicker sagebrush layer (generally \>25% canopy cover) and less
relative cover of herbaceous species. *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis / Poa secunda* Shrubland (CEGL001049) has an undergrowth
dominated by *Poa secunda* and containing little *Pseudoroegneria
spicata*. *Artemisia tridentata (ssp. tridentata, ssp. xericensis) /
Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001018) and
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrubland
(CEGL001030) differ in having shrub layers dominated by those subspecies
of big sagebrush.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata - Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001019)

-   *Artemisia tridentata (*ssp. *tridentata,* ssp. *xericensis) /
    Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001018)---differs in having shrub layer dominated by this
    subspecies of big sagebrush.

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *vaseyana / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrubland (CEGL001030)---differs in having shrub layer dominated by
    this subspecies of big sagebrush.

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Poa secunda* Shrubland
    (CEGL001049)---has an undergrowth dominated by *Poa secunda* and
    containing little *Pseudoroegneria spicata*.

-   *Artemisia tridentata* ssp. *wyomingensis / Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    Shrubland (CEGL001009)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Agropyron spicatum* Habitat Type
    (Eckert 1957) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata / Roegneria spicata* Plant Association
    (Johnston 1987) B

-   *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis/Pseudoroegneria spicata*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

**Related Concepts Summary:** Daubenmire (1988) identified the
subspecies of big sagebrush as *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata*,
but recent review of specimens has indicated that subspecies *A.
tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* is far more common on this habitat type
than is *A. tridentata ssp. tridentata*. The latter is largely
restricted to draws (R. Crawford, WANHP, pers. comm. 1998). The
relationship between this association and Eckert\'s (1957) *Artemisia
tridentata / Agropyron spicatum* association is unclear because Eckert
does not identify the subspecies of big sagebrush.

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** On the Great Plains of eastern Montana and Wyoming
(Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Thilenius et al. 1995), stands of this
association occur on moderately steep to steep (16-45%) slopes and on
gentle footslopes with various aspects, at 4400-5000 feet elevation.
Soils are loams, sandy loams, and sandy clay loams, often with coarse
fragments in the upper horizons. Stands on the Wyoming plains often are
on slopes of sandstone or porcelanite buttes (Thilenius et al. 1995). In
the basins and foothills of south-central Montana (DeVelice and Lesica
1993) and north-central and central Wyoming (Fisser 1964, Tweit and
Houston 1980, Knight et al. 1987), this association occupies mainly
gentle to moderately steep (\<35%) slopes at 4000-6000 feet elevation.
Soils are moderately deep, usually loamy (although one stand has been
described from a clay soil), may have a considerable volume of coarse
fragments, and have low electrical conductivity. In central and
northwestern Colorado, stands of this association occupy gentle to steep
slopes (to 65%) on a variety of landforms at elevations from about
7000-8200 feet. Soils are derived from a variety of parent materials and
often are gravelly. In southwestern Montana (Mueggler and Stewart 1980,
Cooper et al. 1995), stands grow at elevations from 4000-7500 feet, on
slopes up to 54% with various exposures. Soils are shallow to moderately
deep and derived from a variety of parent materials. In eastern
Washington (Daubenmire 1988), this association occupies silt loam and
sandy loam soils on gentle to moderately steep (8-38%) slopes with a
variety of aspects, up to about 2700 feet elevation. In British
Columbia, this type grows on relatively warm, dry sites (Tisdale 1947),
generally from 1300-1970 feet elevation with stands on steep,
south-facing slopes occurring as high as 2950 feet (McLean 1970). Soils
are loams, silt loams, and sandy loams.

**Vegetation:** Throughout the range of this association, the vegetation
consists of an open to moderately dense shrub layer (about 10-25% canopy
cover) dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis*, and a
herbaceous layer dominated by *Pseudoroegneria spicata* with lesser
amounts of *Poa secunda* (sometimes a codominant grass). Other shrubs
(especially *Chrysothamnus* sp.) and herbaceous species (especially
*Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)*) usually are present. *Festuca
idahoensis* is absent or present in small amounts. The stands in the
eastern half of the geographic range often contain small amounts of
*Gutierrezia sarothrae, Artemisia frigida, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Phlox
hoodii, Koeleria macrantha*, and *Opuntia polyacantha*. Less constant
species are *Bouteloua* spp. (especially *Bouteloua gracilis*) *Carex
filifolia*, and *Pascopyrum smithii* (Hansen and Hoffman 1988, Thilenius
et al. 1995, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, DeVelice and Lesica 1993, Cooper
et al. 1995, Tweit and Houston 1980, Fisser 1964, Knight et al. 1987,
Baker and Kennedy 1985, Tiedemann et al. 1987). Missing from these
stands is *Achnatherum thurberianum (= Stipa thurberiana)*. In the
western half of the geographic range, the vegetation generally lacks the
associated species listed above (although Tisdale (1947) reports
*Artemisia frigida* in British Columbia) and often contains *Antennaria
dimorpha* and *Achnatherum thurberianum* (Hironaka et al. 1983,
Blackburn 1967, Blackburn et al. 1968b, Daubenmire 1988, Tisdale 1947,
McLean 1970). In addition, the stands in Washington often contain large
amounts of crustose lichens as ground cover. Descriptions and
photographs of stands show that shrub height also varies across the
range of this type. From the Great Plains westward to eastern Idaho and
south to Colorado, the sagebrush seldom exceeds 0.5 m in height, but in
western Idaho and Washington, the shrubs typically are 1 m tall.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:** 1-Feb-1996

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known from Montana, Wyoming, Colorado,
Idaho, Washington, Oregon (apparently), Nevada, and British Columbia,
Canada. It probably also occurs in western North Dakota and Utah, and it
may occur in South Dakota. This association is known to occur on the
Thunder Basin National Grassland and on the Custer National Forest,
Ashland District. It may also occur on the Sioux District and the Grand
River Districts of the Custer National Forest.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** AZ?, BC, CA:S2, CO:S3?, ID:S3, MT:S3, ND, NM?, NV:S4,
OR:S3, SD, UT?, WA:S3, WY:S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 11:C, 19:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331A:CP, 331D:CP, 331F:CC, 331G:CC, 331H:CC,
341A:PP, 341B:PP, 341C:PP, 342A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342E:CC,
342F:CC, 342G:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC, M261G:CC, M331A:CC,
M331B:CC, M331D:CC, M331H:CC, M331I:CC, M331J:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC,
M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Custer, Medicine Bow, Shoshone, Thunder Basin)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Baker 1983c, Baker and Kennedy 1985, Blackburn 1967,
Blackburn et al. 1968b, Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Brown 1971, Cooper
et al. 1995, Daubenmire 1988, DeVelice and Lesica 1993, Driscoll et al.
1984, Eckert 1957, Fisser 1964, Fisser 1970, Hansen and Hoffman 1988,
Hess 1981, Hironaka et al. 1983, Johnston 1987, Jones and Ogle 2000,
Knight et al. 1987, Lucky McMine Application n.d., McLean 1970, Mueggler
and Stewart 1980, Northwest Resources Co. 1981, Seminoe I Mine
Application n.d., Smith unpubl. data b, Strong 1980, Thilenius et al.
1995, Tiedemann et al. 1987, Tisdale 1947, Tweit and Houston 1980,
Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.2556--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *rupicola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Wyoming Threetip Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#wyoming-threetip-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance has been described from the eastern side of
the Wind River Mountains in west-central Wyoming, the Shirley Mountains
in central Wyoming, and the Laramie Mountains in southeastern Wyoming.
It is found on slopes and ridges of low mountains and the margins of
high-elevation basins from 1830 to 2745 m (6000-9000 feet) elevation.
Stands occur on wind-swept gentle slopes and broad ridgetops, with
coarse-textured (gravelly), well-drained shallow soils. The vegetation
in this alliance consists of bunch-form and rhizomatous graminoids with
forbs and scattered low-growing (\<= 15 cm) shrubs. *Artemisia
tripartita ssp. rupicola* typically contributes 10-20% cover. The most
common graminoids are *Festuca idahoensis* (which may dominate or be a
secondary species), *Pseudoroegneria spicata* (which often contributes
the most cover), *Leucopoa kingii*, and *Poa* spp. (*Poa fendleriana,
Poa cusickii, Poa secunda*). Other common associated species are
*Koeleria macrantha* and *Carex filifolia*. Common forbs are *Antennaria
microphylla, Phlox hoodii, Artemisia frigida*, and *Cerastium arvense*.
*Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis* may be present but contribute relatively little cover;
*Ericameria nauseosa* also is often present.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.1528)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* only
occurs east of the Continental Divide in Wyoming.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #324 - Threetip Sagebrush-Idaho Fescue (Shiflet 1994)
    I

-   SRM Cover Type #404 - Threetip Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) =

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is restricted to central and southeastern
Wyoming. It is found on slopes and ridges of low mountains and the
margins of high-elevation basins from 1830 to 2745 m (6000-9000 feet)
elevation. Stands occur on wind-swept gentle slopes and broad ridgetops,
with coarse-textured (gravelly), well-drained shallow soils.

**Vegetation:** The vegetation in this alliance consists of bunch-form
and rhizomatous graminoids with forbs and scattered low-growing (\<= 15
cm) shrubs. *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* typically contributes
10-20% cover. The most common graminoids are *Festuca idahoensis* (which
may dominate or be a secondary species), *Pseudoroegneria spicata*
(which often contributes the most cover), *Leucopoa kingii*, and *Poa*
spp. (*Poa fendleriana, Poa cusickii, Poa secunda*). Other common
associated species are *Koeleria macrantha* and *Carex filifolia*.
Common forbs are *Antennaria microphylla, Phlox hoodii, Artemisia
frigida*, and *Cerastium arvense*. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*
or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* may be present but
contribute relatively little cover; *Ericameria nauseosa* also is often
present.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* layers and sprouts
from the stump, and both subspecies are able to resprout following fire.
Dominance by the shrub is favored in overgrazed ranges (Hironaka et al.
1983). Populations may have variation in this ability (Hironaka et al.
1983). *Artemisia tripartita ssp. tripartita* occurs from the
Continental Divide of Wyoming to the Columbia Basin of Washington. This
subspecies has an erect growth form and may reach 2 m in height.
*Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* occurs east of the Continental
Divide in Wyoming and forms low, layered shrubs less than 0.3 m in
height (Fisser 1962). Growth trials of the two subspecies under similar
conditions have shown that these morphological characteristics are
genetic rather than environmentally controlled (Fisser 1962).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is restricted to central and southeastern
Wyoming.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C, 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331I:CC, M331I:CC, M331J:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Fertig and Jones 1997, Fisser 1962, Hironaka et al.
1983, Shiflet 1994, Tweit and Houston 1980

#### CEGL001540--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *rupicola / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Wyoming Threetip Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#wyoming-threetip-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-127 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** G.P. Jones

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Wyoming Basins Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.794)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This type has been described from the eastern side of the
Wind River Mountains in west-central Wyoming, the Shirley Mountains in
central Wyoming, and the Laramie Mountains in southeastern Wyoming.
Stands occur on windswept gentle slopes and broad ridgetops, with
coarse-textured soils. The vegetation contains a graminoid component and
a dwarf-shrub component, with smaller amounts of forbs and, sometimes,
taller shrubs. The most common graminoids are *Festuca idahoensis*
(which may dominate or be a secondary species), *Pseudoroegneria
spicata* (which often contributes the most cover), *Leucopoa kingii*,
and *Poa* spp. (*Poa fendleriana, Poa cusickii, Poa secunda*).
*Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* is the dominant dwarf-shrub, and
*Ericameria nauseosa* often is present. *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* may also be
present in smaller amounts. Common forbs are *Antennaria microphylla,
Phlox hoodii, Artemisia frigida*, and *Cerastium arvense*.

**Classification Comments:** Information on this type is of uneven
quality. The best descriptions are for stands from the Wind River
Mountains, while information on stands in central and southeastern
Wyoming is sketchy. This is the only USNVC association described with
the subspecies *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* as the
dominant/diagnostic species. However, there are four other *Artemisia
tripartita* associations in the USNVC.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron
    and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** G.P. Jones **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-2000

**GReasons:** *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* is restricted to
Wyoming, where it occurs on mountains in the central and southeastern
parts of the state. This association is assigned a G3 rank because its
geographic range is restricted (making it a regional endemic type), but
the evidence at hand suggests that it occupies large areas within that
range and it faces no serious threats.

**Ranking Author:** G. Jones **Version:** 30-Nov-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* is restricted to
Wyoming, where it occurs on mountains in the central and southeastern
parts of the state.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** WY:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 9:C, 10:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331I:CC, M331J:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Fertig and Jones 1997, Fisser 1962, Tweit and Houston 1980, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1528--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Threetip Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#threetip-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is distributed from the Columbia Basin east
to the northern Rockies. Climates range from semi-arid in intermountain
basins to subhumid in higher elevations of the Rocky Mountains. Stands
occur on flat to steeply sloping upland sites. Soil texture is loam,
sandy loam, or clay loam, but is highly variable. Vegetation is
characterized by an open, conspicuous shrub layer with herbaceous
species having equal or greater coverage. *Artemisia tripartita*
typically has 10-25% cover. *Artemisia frigida, Artemisia tridentata
ssp. tridentata, Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Krascheninnikovia lanata, Purshia tridentata*, or
*Tetradymia canescens* may also be common. The herbaceous stratum is
typically dominated by graminoids and of moderate to moderately high
cover (25-70%). *Pseudoroegneria spicata* and *Festuca idahoensis* are
the most common associates. Other locally abundant graminoid species
include *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata), Festuca campestris, Carex
filifolia, Bouteloua curtipendula, Bouteloua gracilis*, and *Koeleria
macrantha*. Forbs form a minor and highly variable portion of this
vegetation. Recurrent species include *Achillea millefolium, Camelina
microcarpa, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Sphaeralcea coccinea, Erigeron*
spp., *Opuntia* spp., and *Phlox* spp.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *rupicola* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance
    (A.2556)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** *Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* only
occurs east of the Continental Divide in Wyoming.

**Related Concepts:**

-   SRM Cover Type #324 - Threetip Sagebrush-Idaho Fescue (Shiflet 1994)
    I

-   SRM Cover Type #404 - Threetip Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) =

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance is distributed from the Columbia Basin
east to the northern Rockies. Climates range from semi-arid in
intermountain basins to subhumid in higher elevations of the Rocky
Mountains. The amount and reliability of growing-season moisture
increases eastward and with increasing altitude, generally averaging
25-35 cm annually. These communities occur from elevations of less than
1000 m in the Columbia Basin to over 2500 m in the Rocky Mountains. The
alliance occurs on flat to steeply sloping upland sites. Sites with
little slope tend to have deeper soils while those with steeper slopes
have shallow to moderately deep soils. Soil texture is loam, sandy loam,
or clay loam, but is highly variable (Hironaka et al. 1983).

*Artemisia cana* or *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* shrublands
often occupy lower elevations, and *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana*
occupies cooler, moister upland sites at higher elevation. Other
adjacent vegetation types across the range of this alliance include
*Atriplex confertifolia, Chrysothamnus* spp., or *Artemisia nova*
shrublands, *Populus tremuloides, Pinus ponderosa, Pinus contorta, Abies
grandis*, or *Pseudotsuga menziesii* forests, *Pinus - Juniperus*
woodlands, shortgrass and mixed-grass prairie, or mesic montane meadow
communities.

**Vegetation:** Vegetation in this alliance is sporadically distributed
around the north and western rims of the Columbia Basin, throughout the
Blue Mountains, to the northern Rocky Mountains (Hironaka et al. 1983),
through the upper Snake River. Shrubs may be conspicuous in this
vegetation, but herbaceous species have equal or greater coverage.
*Artemisia tripartita ssp. tripartita* typically occupies 5-15% cover,
and contributes at least 40% to the total shrub cover. *Artemisia
frigida, Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata, Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis, Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana, Chrysothamnus
viscidiflorus, Purshia tridentata*, or *Tetradymia canescens* may also
be common. The herbaceous stratum is typically dominated by graminoids
and of moderate to moderately high cover (25-70%). *Festuca idahoensis*
and *Pseudoroegneria spicata* are the most common associates. Other
locally abundant graminoid species include *Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa
comata), Festuca campestris, Leymus cinereus, Carex filifolia*, and
*Koeleria macrantha*. Forbs form a major and highly variable component
of this vegetation type. Recurrent species include *Achillea
millefolium, Camelina microcarpa, Balsamorhiza sagittata, Crepis* spp.,
*Lupinus* spp., *Erigeron* spp., and *Phlox* spp.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia tripartita* is able to resprout following fire,
and dominance by the shrub is favored in overgrazed ranges (Hironaka et
al. 1983). Populations may have variation in this ability (Hironaka et
al. 1983). *Artemisia tripartita ssp. tripartita* occurs from the
Continental Divide of Wyoming to the Columbia Basin of Washington. This
subspecies has an erect growth form and may reach 2 m in height.
*Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola* occurs east of the Continental
Divide in Wyoming and forms low, layered shrubs less than 0.3 m in
height (Fisser 1962). Growth trials of the two subspecies under similar
conditions have shown that these morphological characteristics are
genetic rather than environmentally controlled (Fisser 1962).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance occurs from eastern Washington and British
Columbia, across the upper Columbia Basin to dry habitats of the Rocky
Mountains of Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** BC, CO, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C, 10:C, 20:C, 67:P

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331I:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342D:CC, 342I:CC,
M242C:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC, M331G:CP, M331I:CC, M331J:CC, M332A:CC,
M332B:CC, M332D:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC, M333A:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton?); USFS (Bridger-Teton)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Caicco and Wellner 1983h, Caicco and Wellner 1983i,
Caicco and Wellner 1983j, Chappell et al. 1997, Daubenmire 1970, Fisser
1962, Hess 1981, Hironaka et al. 1983, Johnston 1987, McLean 1970,
Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Shiflet 1994, Tweit and Houston 1980, WANHP
unpubl. data

#### CEGL001537--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Festuca campestris* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Threetip Sagebrush / Prairie Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#threetip-sagebrush-prairie-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-128 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Canada, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.V. Cooper

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This type is a minor component of landscapes generally
dominated by *Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana* in both eastern
Washington and western Montana. These are generally arid sites with
annual precipitation of 20-60 cm; in Washington elevation ranges between
1100 and 3000 feet whereas its highly circumscribed Montana distribution
ranges between 4200 and 4600 feet. In Washington this type is found on
northerly aspects where loess soils cap basalt and granite. In Montana
this type is found in glaciated landscapes where glacial till derived
from metamorphic Belt Series rock predominates, and it occurs on gentle
slopes of all aspects. It is possibly more abundant in British Columbia
and Alberta. *Artemisia tripartita*, characteristically less than 2 feet
tall, dominates the shrub layer, typically ranging in canopy cover from
10-40%. In Washington, *Artemisia tridentata* and *Purshia tridentata*,
and in Montana *Rosa woodsii*, are the shrubs regularly present. On most
sites, especially those only lightly grazed, *Festuca campestris* is by
far the dominant herb (canopy cover ranging from 10-60%), but on the
most mesic sites its cover can be approached by that of *Achnatherum
richardsonii (= Stipa richardsonii)* and/or *Achnatherum occidentale (=
Stipa occidentalis)*. On more intensively grazed sites *Festuca
idahoensis* cover (or that of other graminoids) approaches or exceeds
that of *Festuca campestris*. Forb diversity is moderate to high; in
Montana, *Potentilla gracilis, Geranium viscosissimum, Lupinus sericeus,
Eriogonum umbellatum* and *Antennaria microphylla* dominate this layer.
Washington occurrences contrast with those of Montana by having a
well-developed soil crust of mosses, lichens and algae.

**Classification Comments:** *Artemisia tripartita* is well known to
stump-sprout following fire, and it could be hypothesized that its
current dominance in the landscape is associated with past fire regimes.
The foregoing hypothesis is made in light of the observation that the
distribution of this association (CEGL001537), at least in Montana, does
not seem to differ in terms of any readily perceptible environmental
variables or landscape positions from *Artemisia tridentata ssp.
vaseyana / Festuca campestris* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001531),
*Artemisia tridentata / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
(CEGL001530), or even *Festuca campestris - Festuca idahoensis*
Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001628). *Artemisia tripartita / Festuca
campestris* differs from *Festuca campestris - Festuca idahoensis* only
in that the former type has at least 10% canopy cover of *Artemisia
tripartita*.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tripartita/Festuca scabrella* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.V. Cooper **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2? **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** This community is not under immediate threat, but in the
long term it faces weed invasion and the consequences of overgrazing (in
the extreme, the local extirpation of *Festuca campestris*). In Montana
the overlap in distribution of the species for which the type is named
is extremely restricted. In Washington both species have restricted
distributions, making the type rare throughout its range. A couple of
Montana occurrences are located within conservation easements but the
protection afforded by the specifics of these easements is unknown.
There are no known occurrences with any formal protection status; in
Montana, all examples are on private or state lands and those of
Washington are not on BLM holdings. This ownership pattern means a
decreased potential for their protection in such management designations
as ACEC or RNA, or via similar protection strategies. The limited number
of occurrences, their generally small area and uncertainty over the
long-term course of succession in this type (how to manage for its
perpetuation) argues for applying a high rank. The possibility of its
occurrence in Canada needs further inventory.

**Ranking Author:** S.V. Cooper **Version:** 16-Nov-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This community is recorded from three counties of
north-central Washington State and one county within west-central
Montana, but it quite probably extends into the dry interior of British
Columbia. It is uncommon within its range.

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** BC?, MT:S2, WA:S1?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342I:CC, M332B:C?, M332D:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
WANHP unpubl. data, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001536--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Threetip Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#threetip-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-129 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

-   Columbia Basin Palouse Prairie (CES304.792)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:** In Wyoming, this association is replaced by
*Artemisia tripartita ssp. rupicola / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub
Herbaceous Vegetation (CEGL001540). *Artemisia tripartita ssp.
tripartita* does occur in Wyoming, but rarely, and is not important in
any associations.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tripartita/Festuca idahoensis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:S1?, ID:S1, MT:S3?, OR:S2, WA:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 10:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342I:CC, M242C:CC, M331A:CC,
M331D:CC, M331I:CC, M331J:CC, M332A:CC, M332B:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC,
M332G:CC, M333A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983h,
Daubenmire 1970, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hess 1981, Hironaka et al. 1983,
Johnston 1987, Mueggler and Stewart 1980, Western Ecology Working Group
n.d.

#### CEGL001539--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Hesperostipa comata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Threetip Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#threetip-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Threetip Sagebrush / Needle-and-Thread* Classif. Resp.: West {#threetip-sagebrush-needle-and-thread-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
Canada, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is restricted to the Columbia Basin and
Okanogan Valley in Washington State and has been reported from
southeastern Idaho. It may also occur in British Columbia, Canada. Sandy
to gravelly soils or low fertility soils (old weathered volcanic ash)
are associated with this type. This is an open to closed vegetation type
with most of its total cover found in only two lifeforms: shrub and
mid-tall bunch grasses. *Artemisia tripartita*, typically less than 2
feet tall, dominates the open shrub layer that typically contributes
10-30% to total plant cover. *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis,
Purshia tridentata*, and *Ericameria* spp. (= *Chrysothamnus* spp.) can
be present or codominant especially on disturbed sites. The general
appearance of the community is a bunchgrass community with *Hesperostipa
comata (= Stipa comata)* dominating the midgrass layer. Some stands have
a short bunchgrass layer of *Poa secunda*. Broad-leaved herbs typically
contribute little to the composition of individual sites although a wide
variety of species can grow in these communities. Frequently observed
forbs are *Lupinus leucophyllus, Calochortus macrocarpus*, and *Erigeron
pumilus*. Annual grasses and forbs are common and can be diverse.
Disturbed sites will have *Bromus tectorum* and *Vulpia bromoides* among
many other exotic species. A diverse ground moss and lichen layer can
cover much of the space between vascular plants, although it is
displaced with ground disturbance. Climatically, this community occurs
on cooler and more moist sites than sites of *Artemisia tridentata* ssp.
*wyomingensis / Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland (CEGL001051).

**Classification Comments:** As with all the *Artemisia tripartita*
types, *Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis* and *Ericameria* spp.
increase with disturbance. A large complete database across their range
may separate out an *Artemisia tripartita - Artemisia tridentata ssp.
wyomingensis - Ericameria* spp. association or associations. These are
currently considered as variations in the condition rank.

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tripartita/Stipa comata* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs at moderate elevations,
generally below 3000 feet, on sites more favorable, moister or at
slightly higher elevations than those dominated by *Artemisia
tridentata*. It is recognized as an edaphic climax association by
Daubenmire (1970). It occurs on deep gravel or sandy infertile soils in
areas too cool and wet for *Artemisia tridentata*. Moisture-holding
capacity in these soils is low. In some locations soils may be derived
from strongly weathered volcanic ash, with such low fertility as to
allow *Hesperostipa comata* to dominate.

**Vegetation:** This is a bunchgrass-dominated association, with
*Hesperostipa comata (= Stipa comata)* in a taller grass layer, up to
0.5 m in height and with 20% to over 70% cover. A shorter grass layer is
dominated by *Poa secunda*, with 10-40% cover. The half-meter-tall shrub
layer is discontinuous, with scattered clumps of the evergreen
*Artemisia tripartita*, averaging 5-15% cover. Forbs are infrequent and
their total cover is less than 3%. Constant perennial forbs include
*Calochortus macrocarpus, Erigeron pumilus, Lithophragma glabrum*, and
*Lupinus leucophyllus*, and the annual forb *Phlox gracilis (=
Microsteris gracilis)*. Species richness is relatively low, with an
average of 13 species. High-quality, little-disturbed sites have a
well-developed cryptogamic layer.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 4-Jun-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G1 **GRank Review Date:** 11-Dec-2000

**GReasons:** This type is a highly restricted component of the
sagebrush landscape in Washington found in Douglas, Lincoln, Spokane,
Okanogan, and eastern Chelan, Kittitas, and Yakima counties. There are
seven occurrences in Washington. It may appear in adjacent British
Columbia and has been reported from southeastern Idaho. There may be
twice this number of sites of all conditions, although many are likely
too small to be viable in the long term. Total acreage is estimated at
less than 500 acres. A wide diversity of exotic species is changing the
composition of this native community. Most occurrences of this type have
been fragmented into isolated tracts and are altered or threatened by
the introduction of exotic plants. This is a naturally unusual
association that has been reduced further through land conversion to
agriculture and exotic plant invasion.

**Ranking Author:** R.C. Crawford **Version:** 11-Dec-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This type is a minor component of the sagebrush landscape in
Washington found in Douglas, Lincoln, Spokane, Okanogan, and eastern
Chelan, Kittitas, and Yakima counties. It may appear in adjacent British
Columbia and in southern Idaho.

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** BC?, ID, OR:S1, WA:S1, WY

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 9:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342I:CC, M331D:CC, M331G:CP

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Grand Teton?); USFS (Bridger-Teton)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Daubenmire 1970, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Hironaka et al. 1983, McLean 1969, McLean 1970, Reid et al.
1994, WANHP unpubl. data, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002994--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Leymus cinereus* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Threetip Sagebrush / Great Basin Lyme Grass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#threetip-sagebrush-great-basin-lyme-grass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-130 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 23-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GU **GRank Review Date:** 23-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:SU

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342D:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Moseley 1987c, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001538--*Artemisia tripartita* ssp. *tripartita / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Threetip Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#threetip-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-131 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
Canada, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** S.K. Rust

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This plant association is reported from sites located in
the Okanogan Highlands, Columbia Basin, Snake River Basalts, Northwest
Basin and Range, Beaverhead Mountains, and Overthrust Mountains
ecoregional sections. *Artemisia tripartita* is the dominant shrub in
the relatively open stands. With good ecological conditions,
*Pseudoroegneria spicata* is abundant in the understory. *Koeleria
macrantha* and *Poa secunda* are usually present but not abundant. The
association is reported to support a rich assembly of herbaceous
species, but none of the authors provides much detail on this component
of the species composition. Soil moss and lichen cover can be as high as
80%.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tripartita/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 26-Nov-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2G3 **GRank Review Date:** 30-Nov-1998

**GReasons:** This is a somewhat widespread plant association occurring
with relatively few, small stands in a sporadic, discontinuous
distribution. It occurs in the Okanogan Highlands, Columbia Basin, Snake
River Basalts, Northwest Basin and Range, Beaverhead Mountains, and
Overthrust Mountains ecoregional sections. The physical environmental
parameters of this vegetation type are not well defined. Many stands are
easily accessed and grazed by livestock. Approximately 50 percent of the
occurrences are considered to be in poor condition.

**Ranking Author:** S.K. Rust **Version:** 21-Nov-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The association occurs in the Okanogan Highlands, Columbia
Basin, Snake River Basalts, Northwest Basin and Range, Beaverhead
Mountains, and Overthrust Mountains ecoregional sections.

**Nations:** CA, US

**Subnations:** BC:S1, ID:S2S3, MT, OR:S1, WA:S1

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342I:CC, M331A:CC, M331D:CC,
M332A:CC, M332E:CC, M332F:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983i,
Caicco and Wellner 1983j, Daubenmire 1970, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Hironaka et al. 1983, McLean 1970, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1530--*Muhlenbergia setifolia / Artemisia bigelovii* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Curly-leaf Muhly / Bigelow Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#curly-leaf-muhly-bigelow-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Latin America, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Stands included in this Chihuahuan Desert alliance have
been reported from rocky sites in the foothills of south-central New
Mexico. Climate is semi-arid. Mean annual precipitation is about 24 cm.
Summers are hot and winters have periods of freezing temperatures. The
elevations range from 1900-2100 m. Stands are found on moderate to steep
slopes, ridges of foothills and mesa escarpments on any aspect. The
extremely rocky substrate is often derived from limestone. The soils are
shallow, lithic, silty or clay loams with an average of 80% of the
ground cover rock or gravel. The soils are relatively mesic because the
limited precipitation is held in the fine-textured soil above the
shallow bedrock and below rocky ground cover. Adjacent vegetation
consists of Chihuahuan desertscrub at lower elevations dominated by
*Larrea tridentata* and montane woodlands and shrublands at higher
elevations. Stands included in this Chihuahuan Desert alliance have been
described in the foothills and on mesa escarpments surrounding the
Tularosa Basin in south-central New Mexico. Stands have a sparse woody
layer dominated by the microphyllous evergreen shrub *Artemisia
bigelovii*. The sparse to moderately dense herbaceous layer is 0.5-0.8 m
tall and dominated by the perennial warm-season bunchgrass *Muhlenbergia
setifolia*. Other associated perennial grasses include *Bouteloua
curtipendula, Bouteloua eriopoda, Bouteloua hirsuta*, and *Muhlenbergia
pauciflora*. Scattered forbs may also be present.

**Classification Comments:** It is unclear why this alliance is
classified separately from the *Muhlenbergia setifolia* Shrub Herbaceous
Alliance (A.1541) if both are shrub herbaceous stands. However,
*Artemisia bigelovii* is classified as a dwarf-shrub in other alliances.
Further investigation is needed to clarify this.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance (A.1103)

-   *Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1571)

-   *Muhlenbergia setifolia* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1541)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Stands in this alliance is very similar
to *Muhlenbergia setifolia* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1541) except
the sparse shrub layer is dominated by *Dasylirion wheeleri* or
*Fouquieria splendens* instead of *Artemisia bigelovii*. The difference
between the *Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance (A.1103) and this
alliance is the sparser density of *Artemisia bigelovii* and the
dominance of *Muhlenbergia setifolia* in the herbaceous layer. Within
the *Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1571) there
is the *Artemisia bigelovii / Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous
Vegetation (CEGL001742). Stands in this association have a sparse
dwarf-shrub layer of *Artemisia bigelovii* and have been described by
Muldavin (1992) from White Sands Missile Range in south central New
Mexico.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Muhlenbergia setifolia* Series (Muldavin et al. 1998b) I

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands included in this Chihuahuan Desert alliance have
been reported from rocky sites in the foothills of south-central New
Mexico. Climate is semi-arid. Mean annual precipitation is about 24 cm.
Summers are hot and winters have periods of freezing temperatures. The
elevations range from 1900-2100 m. Stands are found on moderate to steep
slopes, ridges of foothills and mesa escarpments on any aspect. The
extremely rocky substrate is often derived from limestone. The soils are
shallow, lithic, silty or clay loams with an average of 80% of the
ground cover rock or gravel. The soils are relatively mesic because the
limited precipitation is held in the fine-textured soil above the
shallow bedrock and below rocky ground cover. Adjacent vegetation
consists of Chihuahuan desertscrub at lower elevations dominated by
*Larrea tridentata* and montane woodlands and shrublands at higher
elevations.

**Vegetation:** Stands included in this Chihuahuan Desert alliance have
been described in the foothills and on mesa escarpments surrounding the
Tularosa Basin in south-central New Mexico. Stands have a sparse woody
layer dominated by the microphyllous evergreen shrub *Artemisia
bigelovii*. The sparse to moderately dense herbaceous layer is 0.5-0.8 m
tall and dominated by the perennial warm-season bunchgrass *Muhlenbergia
setifolia*. Other associated perennial grasses include *Bouteloua
curtipendula, Bouteloua eriopoda, Bouteloua hirsuta*, and *Muhlenbergia
pauciflora*. Scattered forbs may be also present.

**Dynamics:** *Muhlenbergia setifolia* is moderately palatable forage
for grazing livestock and may increase in abundance if more palatable
forage is preferentially grazed (Muldavin 1998).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Stands included in this alliance occur on rocky sites in the
foothills and mesa escarpments in the Chihuahuan Desert. It also likely
occurs in northern Mexico.

**Nations:** MX?, US

**Subnations:** NM

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Muldavin et al. 1998b,
Muldavin et al. 1998c, Neher and Bailey 1976

#### CEGL001544--*Artemisia bigelovii / Muhlenbergia setifolia* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Bigelow Sagebrush / Curly-leaf Muhly Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#bigelow-sagebrush-curly-leaf-muhly-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-132 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
Latin America, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Apacherian-Chihuahuan Semi-Desert Grassland and Steppe (CES302.735)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii/Muhlenbergia setifolia* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** MX?, US

**Subnations:** NM

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1525--*Sporobolus cryptandrus* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Sand Dropseed Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#sand-dropseed-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** Grasslands in this alliance are described from Montana,
Idaho and New Mexico. In New Mexico, the alliance occurs in the
northwestern part of the state on alluvial flats at an elevation of
approximately 2140 m. Climate is semi-arid with most of the highly
variable annual precipitation falling during the summer as
high-intensity convectional storms. Sites are nearly level. Soils are
calcareous, loamy and shallow (less than 25 cm deep). Soil surface
averages 65% bareground, 17% plant litter with little rock. The
vegetation is dominated by the perennial bunchgrass *Sporobolus
cryptandrus* with a sparse shrub layer usually dominated by *Artemisia
tridentata*. In New Mexico, a stand has been described where total
vegetation canopy cover is 22% with *Sporobolus cryptandrus, Artemisia
tridentata*, and *Eriogonum* spp., a perennial forb, having canopy cover
of 13%, 3% and 2%, respectively. Other common grasses include
*Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Pascopyrum smithii,
Achnatherum robustum (= Stipa robusta), Sporobolus contractus*, and
*Bouteloua gracilis*. Other shrubs, such as *Ericameria nauseosa (=
Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Gutierrezia sarothrae*, and *Atriplex* spp.,
may also be present. Common forbs, such as *Sphaeralcea coccinea* and
Asteraceae spp., contribute very little to the total cover.

**Classification Comments:** This alliance is very poorly described in
the literature. Vegetation types placed here need to be reviewed. If
some of the desert shrublands get moved to shrub herbaceous alliances,
the ones with high *Sporobolus cryptandrus* cover may fall into this
alliance. The graminoid cover is low in the stand described by Francis
(1986), and that type may be better classified in sparse vegetation
rather than a grassland alliance. Overgrazed stands in the *Sporobolus
cryptandrus* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1252) develop a significant shrub
layer of *Ericameria nauseosa* and may be better classified in this
alliance (Daubenmire 1970).

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Sporobolus cryptandrus* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1252)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** *Sporobolus cryptandrus* Herbaceous
Alliance (A.1252) has only been described from the upper Columbia River
basin and the Pryor Mountains of south central Montana. Vegetation types
included in it generally lack a significant shrub layer.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisa tridentata / Sporobolus crytandrus - Oryzopsis hymenoides*
    Plant Community (Francis 1986) ?

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Grasslands in this alliance are described from Montana
and New Mexico. In New Mexico, the alliance occurs in the northwestern
part of the state on alluvial flats at an elevation of approximately
2140 m. Climate is semi-arid with most of the highly variable annual
precipitation falling during the summer as high-intensity convectional
storms. Sites are nearly level. Soils are calcareous, loamy and shallow
(less than 25 cm deep). Soil surface averages 65% bareground, 17% plant
litter with little rock.

**Vegetation:** Associations in this alliance have been described from a
variety of environments in New Mexico, Idaho and Montana. The vegetation
is dominated by the perennial bunchgrass *Sporobolus cryptandrus* with a
sparse shrub layer usually dominated by *Artemisia tridentata*. In New
Mexico, Francis (1986) described a stand where total vegetation canopy
cover is 22% with *Sporobolus cryptandrus, Artemisia tridentata*, and
*Eriogonum* spp., a perennial forb, having canopy cover of 13%, 3% and
2%, respectively. Other common grasses include *Achnatherum hymenoides
(= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Pascopyrum smithii, Achnatherum robustum (=
Stipa robusta), Sporobolus contractus*, and *Bouteloua gracilis*. Other
shrubs such as *Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus),
Gutierrezia sarothrae*, and *Atriplex* spp. may also be present. Common
forbs such as *Sphaeralcea coccinea* and Asteraceae spp. contribute very
little to the total cover.

**Dynamics:** In New Mexico, grazing has significantly impacted much of
the vegetation in this region, which has had a long history of
settlement and heavy livestock use. With proper livestock management and
time, palatable species such as *Achnatherum hymenoides* and *Pascopyrum
smithii* may increase, and *Gutierrezia sarothrae* and *Ericameria
nauseosa* may decline in abundance (Francis 1986).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Grasslands included in this alliance have been described in a
semi-arid basin in northwestern New Mexico, in Hells Canyon in the Pryor
Mountains in south central Montana, and may occur in the canyons of the
upper Columbia River basin.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, MT, NM

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C, 19:C, 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313B:CC, 331A:CC, 331D:CC, 331G:CC, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** USFS (Hells Canyon, Wallowa-Whitman)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Chappell et al. 1997, Daubenmire 1970, DeVelice and
Lesica 1993, Francis 1986, Johnson and Simon 1987, Lesica and DeVelice
1992, Reid et al. 1994, Tisdale 1986

#### CEGL001545--*Artemisia tridentata / Sporobolus cryptandrus - Achnatherum hymenoides* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Basin Big Sagebrush / Sand Dropseed - Indian Ricegrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#basin-big-sagebrush-sand-dropseed---indian-ricegrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Big Sagebrush / Sand Dropseed - Indian Ricegrass* Classif. Resp.: West {#big-sagebrush-sand-dropseed---indian-ricegrass-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Big Sagebrush Steppe (CES304.778)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This association is known only from the upper Rio Puerco
watershed in northwestern New Mexico where it occurs on alluvial flats
with weakly developed, loamy to mixed shallow soils (Entisols) at an
average elevation of 7000 feet. Bare soil is extensive and total plant
cover is low (21.8%). Although there is high species diversity, only
seven species contributed to more than 80% of this cover. They are in
order of percent cover: *Sporobolus cryptandrus, Artemisia tridentata,
Eriogonum* spp., *Sporobolus contractus, Achnatherum hymenoides (=
Oryzopsis hymenoides)*, Asteraceae spp., and *Machaeranthera
pinnatifida*. Canopy cover for *Achnatherum hymenoides* is very low
(0.4%) and hence probably should not be considered in the community type
name.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Sporobolus cryptandrus* Great Basin Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL002691)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia tridentata/Sporobolus cryptandrus-Oryzopsis hymenoides*
    (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE: V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

-   Terrestrial: Grassland/Herbaceous (TNC 1985) B UNESCO FORMATION
    CODE: V.B.3e (UNESCO 1973) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This association occurs in a semi-arid basin of
northwestern New Mexico, at about 7000 feet elevation. Annual
precipitation is variable, ranging from 21 cm to 33 cm, with a peak
during July through September. These summer rains are convectional, of
short duration and high intensity. Summers are hot.

This association is found on alluvial flats, with 0-2% slopes and
fine-textured alluvial parent materials. Soils are Typic Torriorthents,
calcareous soils with loamy, mixed textures. Soil depth was less than 25
cm, with little to no rock in the profile. Litter cover of the soil
surface averaged 17%.

**Vegetation:** This is a poorly described association, with only one
stand of data collected. It is a grassland association dominated by the
perennial bunchgrass *Sporobolus cryptandrus*, which averages 13% cover.
Several other species of perennial grass are present, including
*Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)* and *Pascopyrum
smithii*. A very sparse shrub layer (4% cover) is present, composed of
the evergreen shrub *Artemisia tridentata* and occasionally *Ericameria
nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)*. Forbs contribute little cover.

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** This association is described by only one stand, but
was part of a larger study with over 100 stands of vegetation sampled.
It is probably a legitimate type, and closely related to other
*Sporobolus cryptandrus* grasslands found in the low-elevation canyons
of the Snake River.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 27-Jul-1993

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2? **GRank Review Date:** 15-Dec-1998

**GReasons:** This information is based on one site within the upper Rio
Puerco watershed. Although this was a minor community type within the
study area, it was designated as one of the few, high ecological stage
communities (late seral). Little is known about this community and its
distribution, but *Artemisia tridentata* communities with grassy
understories are probably very limited in distribution in the Great
Basin.

**Ranking Author:** Y. Chauvin **Version:** 30-Nov-1998

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association is known only from the upper Rio Puerco
watershed in northwestern New Mexico.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM

**TNC Ecoregions:** 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313B:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Francis 1986, TNC 1985, UNESCO 1973, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

## V.A.7.N.l. Short temperate or subpolar grassland with a sparse cold-deciduous shrub layer

### A.1574--*Artemisia rigida* Shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Scabland Sagebrush Shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#scabland-sagebrush-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance occurs in scablands east of the Cascade
Mountains in the Columbia Basin steppe and on the Snake River Plateau of
Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Elevations range from 190-1830 m. Stands
are found on flat to undulating to rolling plateaus, plains, ridgetops
and brows. The key environmental indicator is the fact that soils are
shallow with a high percentage of rock fragments (10-70%) (lithic).
Parent material is restricted to colluvium and residuum derived from
basalt and acid lava. The soil surface is mostly rock, erosion pavement
(pebble surface), bare ground, and moss. Stands have a sparse to
moderately dense herbaceous layer (\<0.5 m tall) that is dominated by
either of the cool-season, perennial bunch grasses *Poa secunda* or
*Pseudoroegneria spicata*. A sparse (10-25% cover) woody layer of
scattered *Artemisia rigida* is diagnostic of these stands. Occasionally
this dwarf-shrub layer exceeds 25% cover and may include woody buckwheat
shrubs (*Eriogonum* spp.). Moss and lichen cover in undisturbed stands
is often high and ranges from 1-60% cover.

**Classification Comments:** Vegetation included in this dwarf-shrub
herbaceous alliance is very similar to the stands in the *Poa secunda*
Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1568) except for dominance of
*Artemisia rigida* instead of *Eriogonum* spp. in the woody layer. Both
have high cover and constancy of *Poa secunda* in the herbaceous layer
and occur in similar habitats (e.g., shallow, lithic soils over
fractured basalt). Daubenmire (1970) described as many stands in an
intermediate habitat type between the *Artemisia rigida - Poa* and
*Eriogonum thymoides - Poa* habitat types as in each of the \'parent\'
types which suggests a large ecotone between stands in the two
alliances. In addition, woody cover in some stands in this alliance is
dense enough to be classified as a shrubland (Daubenmire 1970, Johnson
and Simon 1987), but most average between 10-25%.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Poa secunda* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1568)

-   *Poa secunda* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1291)

-   *Poa secunda* Seasonally Flooded Herbaceous Alliance (A.1410)

-   *Pseudoroegneria spicata* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1265)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** The similar alliances have *Poa secunda*
or *Pseudoroegneria spicata* as a dominant/diagnostic species in the
alliance. *Poa secunda* and *Pseudoroegneria spicata* are widespread
grassland species in the northern half of the western U.S. and are also
dominant understory species in woodland and shrubland stands dominated
by *Juniperus occidentalis, Artemisia tridentata, Artemisia arbuscula,
Artemisia nova, Grayia spinosa*, or *Purshia tridentata*. They are also
codominant in stands in other grassland alliances that are dominated by
*Leymus triticoides, Bouteloua gracilis, Sporobolus cryptandrus* or
*Hesperostipa comata*.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia rigida-Poa secunda* habitat type (Daubenmire 1970) ?

-   *Artemisia rigida-Poa secunda* habitat type (Hironaka et al. 1983) ?

-   *Artemisia rigida* Series (Tisdale 1986) ?

-   SRM Cover Type #407 - Stiff Sagebrush (Shiflet 1994) =

-   Scabland Sage (Shantz 1924) ?

-   Stiff Sage Scabland (Hall 1973) ?

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** These sparse shrublands/grasslands are characteristic
of the scablands in the Columbia Basin and portions of the Snake River
plain. Elevations range from 190-1830 m. The climate is temperate, with
a winter precipitation peak. Mean annual precipitation ranges from 25-50
cm, and occurs primarily in the winter as snow or rain. This moisture is
stored in the soil profile and utilized during the typically dry
summers. Stands are found on flat to undulating to rolling plateaus,
plains, ridgetops and brows. Sites are nearly level to moderately
sloping (to 30%). The alliance occurs on all aspects, but is more common
on southern slopes, although given that most sites are flat, aspect is
not very significant. The key environmental indicator is the fact that
soils are shallow (7-30 cm) with a high percentage of rock fragments
(10-70%) (lithic). They are moderately to well-drained, non-calcareous,
sandy to clay loams, with pH of 6.3-6.6. Parent material is restricted
to colluvium and residuum derived from basalt and acid lava. Soil
surface is mostly rock, erosion pavement (pebble surface), bare ground,
and moss. Litter accumulates under the scattered *Artemisia rigida*
plants forming moss-covered mounds up to 20 cm deep. These hummocks
persist several years after the death of the dwarf-shrub (Daubenmire
1970, 1992). Moss and lichen cover a significant amount of the ground
surface, often with up to 50% cover.

Adjacent stands vary and often include other grasslands dominated by
*Poa secunda, Pseudoroegneria spicata, Festuca idahoensis*, shrublands
dominated by *Artemisia tridentata*, or woodlands dominated by
*Juniperus occidentalis* or *Pinus ponderosa*. Stands may grade into
*Eriogonum thymoides*-dominated stands, change abruptly to *Eriogonum
niveum* where parent material changes to granite, sandy soils, glacial
outwash or flood deposits, or grade into sparse *Poa secunda* grasslands
in areas with no soil at all.

**Vegetation:** Vegetation included in this alliance is typically open
with total vascular cover much less than 60% and occurs in scablands
east of the Cascade Mountains in the Columbia Basin steppe and on the
Snake River Plateau. Stands have a sparse to moderately dense herbaceous
layer (\<0.5 m tall) that is dominated by either of the cool-season,
perennial bunch grasses *Poa secunda* or *Pseudoroegneria spicata*. A
sparse (10-25% cover) woody layer of scattered *Artemisia rigida*, a
cold-deciduous dwarf-shrub, is diagnostic of these stands. Occasionally
this dwarf-shrub layer exceeds 25% cover and may include woody buckwheat
shrubs (*Eriogonum* spp.). Other characteristic species may include
occasional graminoids such as *Danthonia unispicata, Elymus elymoides*,
or *Festuca idahoensis*; perennial forbs like *Achillea millefolium,
Allium* spp., *Antennaria* spp., *Balsamorhiza incana, Erigeron
chrysopsidis, Eriogonum* spp., *Lithophragma glabrum, Lomatium* spp.,
*Phlox hoodii, Sedum lanceolatum, Sedum stenopetalum*, or *Trifolium
macrocephalum*; and the annuals *Collinsia parviflora, Epilobium
brachycarpum, Idahoa scapigera, Phlox gracilis, Plantago patagonica*,
and *Vulpia microstachys var. pauciflora*. Moss and lichen cover in
undisturbed stands is often high and ranges from 1-60% cover.

**Dynamics:** This xeric shrubland vegetation occurs under relatively
extreme soil-moisture conditions. Stands are found on shallow rocky
soils with limited water-holding capacity. These soils are often
saturated from fall to spring by the winter precipitation, but they
typically dry out completely to bedrock by midsummer (Daubenmire 1970,
1992, Johnson and Simon 1987). *Poa secunda* is well-adapted to these
conditions because it starts growing early in the spring and completes
its reproductive cycle early while there is still moisture in the soil
(Daubenmire 1970, 1992, Johnson and Simon 1987). Also, if there is late
summer or early fall precipitation, dormant *Poa secunda* can respond
quickly and green up. Daubenmire (1970) and Johnson and Simon (1987)
suggest that the basalt bedrock present under these
dwarf-shrub/grassland stands is fractured enough to support
deeper-rooted dwarf-shrubs. Moss does well in this habitat. In addition
to drought tolerance, *Poa secunda* is also tolerant of grazing and
trampling by livestock (Daubenmire 1970, Ganskopp 1979). *Artemisia
rigida* is favored winter browse for elk and deer, and moderately
palatable to livestock (Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992). The saturated
spring soils are vulnerable to trampling, but the rocky soils discourage
livestock (Daubenmire 1992). However, in areas excluded from grazing
entirely, *Pseudoroegneria spicata* and *Festuca idahoensis* may
dominate with *Artemisia rigida* in portions of the alliance\'s range,
also growing in rock fractures.

Stands in this alliance are generally considered to be late seral with
species composition controlled by the harsh edaphic conditions of the
site (Daubenmire 1970, Johnson and Simon 1987). With disturbance, such
as livestock impacts, comes an increase in erosion pavement and bare
ground, and a decrease in moss and lichen cover (Daubenmire 1970,
Johnson and Simon 1987). Frost heaving may be severe causing local soil
disturbance in the winter when these thin, saturated soils freeze and
push soil and plants up out of the ground. Pedestalled *Artemisia
rigida* plants and bunch grasses are common (Daubenmire 1970, Hironaka
et al. 1983). Exotic plants have invaded many stands especially where
disturbed (Daubenmire 1992, Tisdale 1986). Common exotics may include
annual grasses such as *Bromus tectorum, Bromus japonicus* and *Bromus
briziformis*, which may be abundant during wet years; and annual forbs
like *Epilobium brachycarpum, Erodium cicutarium, Lactuca serriola,
Tragopogon dubius*, and the perennial forb *Hypericum perforatum*.

Fire is thought to be unimportant because it is unlikely that the sparse
vegetation in these stands could carry a fire. However, if it did occur
the *Artemisia rigida* plants are not tolerant and would be killed
(Daubenmire 1992, Johnson and Simon 1987, Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** These sparse dwarf-shrublands are most characteristic of the
Columbia Basin of eastern Washington, eastern Oregon and Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID, OR, WA

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC,
M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:** BLM (Burns, Lakeview, Prineville, Spokane, Vale);
USFS (Boise, Deschutes, Malheur, Ochoco, Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Daubenmire 1970, Daubenmire 1992, Ganskopp 1979, Hall
1973, Hironaka 1978, Hironaka et al. 1983, Johnson and Clausnitzer 1992,
Johnson and Simon 1985, Johnson and Simon 1987, ORNHP unpubl. data,
Shantz 1924, Shiflet 1994, Tisdale 1986

#### CEGL002995--*Artemisia rigida / Festuca idahoensis* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Scabland Sagebrush / Idaho Fescue Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#scabland-sagebrush-idaho-fescue-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-133 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 23-Apr-2002

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Scabland Shrubland (CES304.770)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2 **GRank Review Date:** 15-Apr-2002

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:SU, OR:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342C:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** ORNHP unpubl. data, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001528--*Artemisia rigida / Poa secunda* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Scabland Sagebrush / Curly Bluegrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#scabland-sagebrush-curly-bluegrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-134 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Scabland Shrubland (CES304.770)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Eriogonum thymoides / Poa secunda* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous
    Vegetation (CEGL001449)

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia rigida/Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Eriogonum thymoides / Poa secunda Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation
    (CEGL001449)

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G4 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S2, OR:S4, WA:S3S4

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331A:CC, 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:CC,
M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Daubenmire 1970, Driscoll
et al. 1984, Hall 1973, Johnson and Simon 1985, Johnson and Simon 1987,
Tisdale 1986, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL001529--*Artemisia rigida / Pseudoroegneria spicata* Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Scabland Sagebrush / Bluebunch Wheatgrass Shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#scabland-sagebrush-bluebunch-wheatgrass-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-135 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 1 - Strong **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Columbia Plateau Scabland Shrubland (CES304.770)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia rigida/Pseudoroegneria spicata* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3 **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** OR:S3

**TNC Ecoregions:** 6:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 342B:CC, 342C:CC, 342H:CC, 342I:C?, M332G:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
ORNHP unpubl. data, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

## V.A.8.N.a. Short temperate or subpolar lowland grassland with a sparse needle-leaved or microphyllous dwarf-shrub layer

### A.1570--*Bouteloua eriopoda* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Black Grama Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#black-grama-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** One stand in this alliance was reported from White Sands
Missile Range in the Tularosa Basin of southern New Mexico. Elevations
range from 1200-2700 m at White Sands Missile Range. The climate is
arid. Mean annual precipitation is 22 cm with over half occurring during
the late summer monsoon season often as high-intensity convection storm.
Grasslands in this Chihuahuan Desert alliance are dominated by the
perennial shortgrass *Bouteloua eriopoda*. There is also a sparse
dwarf-shrub layer dominated by *Artemisia bigelovii*. More detailed
description information was not available.

**Classification Comments:** The single association included in this
alliance is described from only one stand on the White Sands Missile
Range. More information is needed to describe stands in this alliance
and clarify how it differs from the similar alliances.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance (A.1103)

-   *Bouteloua eriopoda* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1284)

-   *Bouteloua eriopoda* Microphyllous Evergreen Shrub Herbaceous
    Alliance (A.1545)

-   *Bouteloua eriopoda* Xeromorphic Shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1553)

-   *Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1571)

-   *Bouteloua hirsuta - Bouteloua gracilis - Bouteloua eriopoda* Shrub
    Herbaceous Alliance (A.1548)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** All the similar alliances have *Bouteloua
eriopoda* listed as characteristic plant species except the *Artemisia
bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance (A.1103) which has the same species in the
woody layer, but may not have *Bouteloua eriopoda* dominate the
herbaceous layer.

**Related Concepts:**

-   Grama Grass-Scrub Series (143.11) (Brown 1982) ?

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** One stand in this alliance was reported from White
Sands Missile Range in the Tularosa Basin of southern New Mexico.
Elevations range from 1200-2700 m at White Sands Missile Range. Climate
is arid. Mean annual precipitation is 22 cm with over half occurring
during the late summer monsoon season often as high-intensity convection
storm. More detailed site description information was not available.

**Vegetation:** Grasslands in this Chihuahuan Desert alliance are
dominated by the perennial shortgrass *Bouteloua eriopoda*. There is
also a sparse dwarf-shrub layer dominated by *Artemisia bigelovii*. More
detailed description information was not available.

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Vegetation in this alliance occurs in the Chihuahua Desert at
White Sands Missile Range in southern New Mexico.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:** DOD (White Sands Missile Range)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Brown 1982, Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Neher and Bailey
1976

#### CEGL001741--*Artemisia bigelovii / Bouteloua eriopoda* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Bigelow Sagebrush / Black Grama Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#bigelow-sagebrush-black-grama-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-136 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Apacherian-Chihuahuan Semi-Desert Grassland and Steppe (CES302.735)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii/Bouteloua eriopoda* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.2.e. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNRQ **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

### A.1571--*Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance

### Blue Grama Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance {#blue-grama-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is reported from the Tularosa Basin of
southern New Mexico and the Colorado Plateau in southwestern Utah and
northern Arizona. Elevations range from 1200-2700 m. Climate is
semi-arid. Sites include valley bottoms, plains, hillslopes, mesa tops,
sand sheets and dunes. Soils range from loamy sand to silt texture and
are derived from alluvium and colluvium from sandstone and other parent
materials. The vegetation is dominated by a sparse to moderately dense
graminoid layer of the perennial shortgrass *Bouteloua gracilis* with an
open (10-25% cover) dwarf-shrub layer. *Hesperostipa comata, Pleuraphis
jamesii*, or *Sporobolus airoides* may codominate the graminoid layer in
some stands. Other associated grasses are *Achnatherum hymenoides,
Bouteloua curtipendula, Hesperostipa neomexicana, Muhlenbergia montana,
Poa fendleriana*, and *Sporobolus cryptandrus*. *Artemisia bigelovii* or
*Gutierrezia sarothrae* are commonly present and may dominate the open
dwarf-shrub layer. Other dwarf-shrubs and shrubs may include
*Arctostaphylos patula, Artemisia tridentata, Ephedra torreyana, Ephedra
viridis, Ericameria nauseosa, Quercus gambelii, Tetradymia canescens*,
and *Yucca* spp. An occasional *Pinus edulis* or *Juniperus* spp. tree
may be present in higher elevation stands.

**Classification Comments:** The two associations included in this
alliance are described from only two stands on the White Sands Missile
Range, 12 plots from Petrified Forest National Park, and 4 plots from
Zion National Park. More classification work is needed to clarify how it
differs from the similar alliances, especially the stands in the
*Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance (A.1103).

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii* Shrubland Alliance (A.1103)

-   *Bouteloua eriopoda* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Alliance (A.1570)

-   *Bouteloua gracilis* Herbaceous Alliance (A.1282)

-   *Juniperus monosperma* Woodland Alliance (A.504)

-   *Muhlenbergia setifolia / Artemisia bigelovii* Shrub Herbaceous
    Alliance (A.1530)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Stands from the *Artemisia bigelovii*
Shrubland Alliance (A.1103) are described from southeastern Colorado and
are geographically separate from the others. The structure and
composition of stands included in these alliances is similar and needs
further examination. Stands from the other similar alliances all occur
in New Mexico and share *Artemisia bigelovii* in the sparse dwarf-shrub
layer, but have a different graminoid component dominating the
herbaceous layer or have a tree layer.

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This alliance occurs in the Tularosa Basin of southern
New Mexico and the Colorado Plateau in southwestern Utah and northern
Arizona. Elevation ranges from 1200-2700 m. Climate is semi-arid. Mean
annual precipitation is approximately 22 cm with over half occurring
during the late summer monsoon season often as high-intensity convection
storms. Sites include valley bottoms, plains, hillslopes, mesa tops,
sand sheets and dunes. Soils range from loamy sand to silt in texture
and are derived from alluvium and colluvium from sandstone and other
parent materials.

**Vegetation:** This alliance is dominated by a sparse to moderately
dense graminoid layer of the perennial shortgrass *Bouteloua gracilis*
with an open (10-25% cover ) dwarf-shrub layer. *Hesperostipa comata,
Pleuraphis jamesii*, or *Sporobolus airoides* may codominate the
graminoid layer in some stands. Other associated grasses are
*Achnatherum hymenoides, Bouteloua curtipendula, Hesperostipa
neomexicana, Muhlenbergia montana, Poa fendleriana*, and *Sporobolus
cryptandrus*. *Artemisia bigelovii* or *Gutierrezia sarothrae* are
commonly present and may dominate the open dwarf-shrub layer. Other
dwarf-shrubs and shrubs may include *Arctostaphylos patula, Artemisia
tridentata, Ephedra torreyana, Ephedra viridis, Ericameria nauseosa,
Quercus gambelii, Tetradymia canescens*, and *Yucca* spp. An occasional
*Pinus edulis* or *Juniperus* spp. tree may be present in higher
elevation stands.

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Grasslands in this alliance have been described from the
Oscura Mountains in the Tularosa Basin in south-central New Mexico and
the Colorado Plateau in southwestern Utah and northern Arizona.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** AZ, NM

**TNC Ecoregions:** 18:C, 19:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 313A:CC, 313D:CC, 321A:CC, M341C:CC

**Federal Lands:** DOD (White Sands Missile Range); NPS (Petrified
Forest, Zion)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Muldavin et al. 1992, Neher
and Bailey 1976

#### CEGL001742--*Artemisia bigelovii / Bouteloua gracilis* Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Bigelow Sagebrush / Blue Grama Dwarf-shrub Herbaceous Vegetation {#bigelow-sagebrush-blue-grama-dwarf-shrub-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-137 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:**

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Inter-Mountain Basins Semi-Desert Shrub-Steppe (CES304.788)

-   Apacherian-Chihuahuan Semi-Desert Grassland and Steppe (CES302.735)

-   Colorado Plateau Mixed Low Sagebrush Shrubland (CES304.762)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia bigelovii/Bouteloua gracilis* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.2.e. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** NM

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 321A:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Muldavin and Mehlhop 1992, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

## V.B.2.N.b. Low temperate or subpolar perennial forb vegetation

### A.1624--*Artemisia arctica* Herbaceous Alliance

### Boreal Sagebrush Herbaceous Alliance {#boreal-sagebrush-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance is found in the alpine tundra of the Colorado
Rocky Mountains between 2500 and 4000 m in elevation. Soils are
typically skeletal and prone to disturbance from frost heaving or
burrowing animals. The soil surface is often stripped of fine-textured
soil particles, leaving a gravel pavement. This alliance is associated
with relatively shallow snowbeds, which result in moist, but not
water-logged, soils during the growing season. The vegetation is
dominated by *Artemisia arctica*, which ranges from 25-60% cover. Other
frequent forb associates include *Trifolium parryi, Trifolium
dasyphyllum, Lewisia pygmaea, Ranunculus adoneus, Polygonum
bistortoides, Draba crassifolia, Cerastium arvense, Minuartia obtusiloba
(= Arenaria sajanensis)*, and *Sibbaldia procumbens*. Graminoid
associates include *Carex brunnescens, Luzula spicata, Poa fendleriana,
Poa alpina, Deschampsia caespitosa*, and *Festuca brachyphylla*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The vegetation in this alliance is found in the alpine
tundra of the Colorado Rocky Mountains between 2500 and 4000 m in
elevation. The climate is exceptionally harsh, with snow cover for the
majority of the year, abrasion from wind-driven snow, frequent
growing-season frost, and extreme radiation from direct and
snow-reflected sunlight. Soils are typically skeletal and prone to
disturbance from frost heaving or burrowing animals. The soil surface is
often stripped of fine-textured soil particles, leaving a gravel
pavement. The depth and persistence of snowpack is a strong determinant
of vegetation patterns in alpine ecosystems. The vegetation in this
alliance is associated with relatively shallow snowbeds, which result in
moist, but not water-logged, soils during the growing season.

**Vegetation:** The vegetation in this alliance is dominated by
*Artemisia arctica*, which ranges from 25-60% cover. Other frequent forb
associates include *Trifolium parryi, Trifolium dasyphyllum, Lewisia
pygmaea, Ranunculus adoneus, Polygonum bistortoides, Draba crassifolia,
Cerastium arvense, Minuartia obtusiloba (= Arenaria sajanensis)*, and
*Sibbaldia procumbens*. Graminoid associates include *Carex brunnescens,
Luzula spicata, Poa fendleriana, Poa alpina, Deschampsia caespitosa*,
and *Festuca brachyphylla*.

**Dynamics:** *Artemisia arctica* initiates rapid above ground growth
with the aid of underground carbohydrate reserves in the caudex and
plants reach full leaf by mid-July. These stands are considered \'zootic
climax\' communities which develop in *Deschampsia caespitosa*
communities following disturbance. Gopher burrowing is the most common
agent of disturbance (Willard 1963).

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is only described from the Colorado alpine, but
*Artemisia arctica* is circumboreal and also occurs in California,
Washington, Montana, and Wyoming. Associations are expected throughout
the range of the species.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331I:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Rocky Mountain)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Fritz 1981, Komarkova 1976, Willard 1960, Willard 1963,
Willard 1979

#### CEGL001848--*Artemisia arctica* ssp. *arctica* Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Boreal Sagebrush Herbaceous Vegetation {#boreal-sagebrush-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-138 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** Western Ecology Group

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Rocky Mountain Dry Tundra (CES306.816)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:**

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia arctica ssp. saxicola* (Bourgeron and Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.C.6.b. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:**

**Vegetation:**

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author: Version:**

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GU **GRank Review Date:** 23-Feb-1994

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:**

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** CO:SU

**TNC Ecoregions:** 10:C, 20:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M331I:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Rocky Mountain)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Driscoll et al. 1984,
Fritz 1981, Komarkova 1976, Western Ecology Working Group n.d., Willard
1960, Willard 1963, Willard 1979

### A.1654--*Sphaeromeria argentea* Herbaceous Alliance

### Nuttall\'s False Sagebrush Herbaceous Alliance {#nuttalls-false-sagebrush-herbaceous-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This alliance occurs in east-central Idaho in intermountain
valleys near the Lost River and Lemhi ranges. The average annual
precipitation is very low, typically around 5 cm. This alliance is found
from approximately 1890-1980 m on coalescing alluvial fans which have
been deposited at the base of many of the ranges. These fans are a
complex of interlayered materials consisting of boulders, cobbles, and
pebbles mixed with sand, silt, and clay. Most of the ground surface is
covered by a cobble or boulder pavement. The soils are dry gravelly
loams, with shallow rooting depths, and a wind-swept surface. The
vegetation mosaic on these alluvial fans appears to be related to depth
of winter snowpack. These communities are similar to wind-swept tundra
vegetation, with a low sparsely vegetated appearance. The dominant
species is *Sphaeromeria argentea*, a suffrutescent, perennial forb less
than 0.2 m in height. *Artemisia frigida*, another suffrutescent forb,
is codominant in some stands. The perennial bunch grasses *Achnatherum
swallenii (= Oryzopsis swallenii)* and *Poa secunda* are the most common
graminoids, but are typically short in height (less than 0.5 m) and
inconspicuous. Other forbs occurring include *Phlox hoodii ssp.
muscoides (= Phlox muscoides), Ionactis alpina (= Aster scopulorum)*,
and *Penstemon pumilus*. No information is given on cover values or
other species present.

**Classification Comments:** This is a poorly known and described
alliance.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

**Similar Alliance Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The region where this alliance occurs is to the east of
a major mountain mass which creates a rainshadow effect, allowing only
occasional incursions of moisture-laden winter storms from the Pacific.
Average annual precipitation is very low, typically around 5 cm. The
topography is mountainous, with high, massive ranges, dissected by deep
valleys, which are typically broad and gentle. Coalescing alluvial fans
have been deposited at the base of many of the ranges. This alliance
occurs on these alluvial fans at elevations from approximately 1890 to
1980 m. These fans are a complex of interlayered materials consisting of
boulders, cobbles, and pebbles mixed with sand, silt, and clay. The
soils are highly variable, in some sites derived from sand and in others
derived from clay. Most of the ground surface is covered by a cobble or
boulder pavement, resulting from the removal of fine-grained materials
by wind and surface runoff. The soils are dry gravelly loams, with
shallow rooting depths, and a wind-swept surface. Additionally, Caicco
and Wellner (1983) suggest that the vegetation mosaic on these alluvial
fans appears to be related to depth of winter snowpack, and presumably
timing of spring snowmelt.

**Vegetation:** This alliance is similar to windswept tundra vegetation,
with a low sparsely vegetated appearance. The dominant species is
*Sphaeromeria argentea*, a suffrutescent, perennial forb less than 0.2 m
in height. *Artemisia frigida*, another suffrutescent forb, is
codominant in some stands. The perennial bunch grasses *Achnatherum
swallenii (= Oryzopsis swallenii)* and *Poa secunda* are the most common
graminoids, but are typically short in height (less than 0.5 m) and
inconspicuous. Other forbs occurring include *Phlox hoodii ssp.
muscoides (= Phlox muscoides), Ionactis alpina (= Aster scopulorum)*,
and *Penstemon pumilus*. No information is given on cover values or
other species present.

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This alliance is known only from east-central Idaho in
intermountain valleys near the Lost River and Lemhi ranges.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID

**TNC Ecoregions:** 8:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** Caicco and Wellner 1983l

#### CEGL001992--*Sphaeromeria argentea - Artemisia frigida - Poa secunda* Herbaceous Vegetation

#### Nuttall\'s False Sagebrush - Fringed Sagebrush - Curly Bluegrass Herbaceous Vegetation {#nuttalls-false-sagebrush---fringed-sagebrush---curly-bluegrass-herbaceous-vegetation .unnumbered}

####  Classif. Resp.: West {#classif.-resp.-west-139 .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** M.S. Reid

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** A low and sparsely vegetated appearance, similar to
windswept tundra vegetation, is characteristic of this association,
which is found in the mountains of central Idaho. This type occurs on
alluvial fans at elevations from approximately 6200-6500 feet. These
fans are a complex of interlayered materials consisting of boulders,
cobbles, and pebbles mixed with sand, silt, and clay. The soils are
highly variable, in some sites derived from sand and in others derived
from clay. Most of the ground surface is covered by a cobble or boulder
pavement, resulting from the removal of fine-grained materials by wind
and surface runoff. The soils associated with this vegetation type occur
on alluvial flats and are dry gravelly loams, with shallow rooting
depths, and a windswept surface. Two of the dominant species,
*Sphaeromeria argentea (= Tanacetum nuttallii)* and *Artemisia frigida*,
are broad-leaved suffrutescent perennial forbs less than 0.5 m in
height. *Sphaeromeria* is usually more abundant, but less conspicuous,
than the *Artemisia frigida*. The perennial bunchgrass *Poa secunda* is
common and usually less than 3 dm tall. Other forbs occurring include
*Phlox hoodii ssp. muscoides (= Phlox muscoides), Ionactis alpina (=
Aster scopulorum)*, and *Penstemon pumilus*.

**Classification Comments:**

**Similar Associations:**

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Tanacetum nuttallii-Artemisia frigida-Poa secunda* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.D.2.a. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** The region where the association occurs is to the east
of a major mountain mass which strongly affects the climate of the
region. The high mountains to the west create a rainshadow, allowing
only occasional incursions of moisture-laden winter storms from the
Pacific. Average annual precipitation is lowest in the valleys, such as
where this association is found, typically only 7 inches. There is a
peak during May and June, when convective showers are common, but
winters are relatively dry. Summers are warm, and winters cold.

The region is mountainous with high, massive ranges, dissected by deep
valleys. The topography is the result of fault-block activity, with a
linear basin-and-range topography. Intervening valleys are typically
broad and gentle. Coalescing alluvial fans have been deposited at the
base of many of the ranges. Most of these are of older, Quaternary
materials which are now being dissected and planed by present-day
streams. This association occurs on alluvial fans at elevations from
approximately 6200-6500 feet. These fans are a complex of interlayered
materials consisting of boulders, cobbles, and pebbles mixed with sand,
silt, and clay.

The soils are highly variable, in some sites derived from sand and in
others derived from clay. Most of the ground surface is covered by a
cobble or boulder pavement, resulting from the removal of fine-grained
materials by wind and surface runoff. The soils associated with this
vegetation type occur on alluvial flats and are dry gravelly loams, with
shallow rooting depths, and a windswept surface. Additionally, Caicco
and Wellner (1983l) suggest that the vegetation mosaic on these alluvial
fans appears to be related to depth of winter snowpack, and presumably
timing of spring snowmelt.

**Vegetation:** A low and sparsely vegetated appearance is
characteristic of this association, similar to windswept tundra
vegetation. Two of the dominant species, *Sphaeromeria argentea (=
Tanacetum nuttallii)* and *Artemisia frigida*, are broad-leaved
suffrutescent perennial forbs less than 0.5 m in height. *Sphaeromeria*
is usually more abundant, but less conspicuous, than the *Artemisia
frigida*. The perennial bunchgrass *Poa secunda* is common and usually
less than 3 dm tall. Other forbs occurring include *Phlox hoodii ssp.
muscoides (= Phlox muscoides), Ionactis alpina (= Aster scopulorum)*,
and *Penstemon pumilus*. No information is given on cover values or
other species present.

**High-ranked species:** Sphaeromeria argentea (G3G4)

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** The impact grazing has had on this vegetation type
is unknown. The sparse nature of the type provides little forage, but
species composition may be altered.

**Description Author:** M.S. Reid **Version:** 1-Sep-2004

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G2Q **GRank Review Date:** 1-Feb-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author: Version:**

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This association occurs in the mountains of central Idaho.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ID:S2

**TNC Ecoregions:** 8:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** M332E:CC, M332F:CC

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, Caicco and Wellner 1983l,
Driscoll et al. 1984, Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

# VII. Sparse Vegetation

## VII.C.3.N.b. Dry slopes

### A.1874--*Artemisia longifolia* Sparsely Vegetated Alliance

### Longleaf Wormwood Sparsely Vegetated Alliance {#longleaf-wormwood-sparsely-vegetated-alliance .unnumbered}

**Stakeholders:** Canada, Midwest, West **Classif. Resp.:** West

ALLIANCE CONCEPT

**Summary:** This vegetation is known from badlands in the northwestern
Great Plains on acid-shale barrens. Elevation in Montana is
approximately 1000 m. Stands occur on dry scree slopes, as well as
acid-shale barrens. Sites are common on moderate to steep, highly eroded
slopes with southern and western aspects. Substrates may be deep, but
are poorly developed, fine-textured soils derived from acid marine
shales. Because of a large coarse fraction of shale fragments, these
soils may be better drained than expected. The sparse vegetation layer
is less than 1 m tall and is dominated by the perennial forb *Artemisia
longifolia* with *Eriogonum pauciflorum* sometimes codominating.
Scattered graminoids and other forbs are also typically present and may
include *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides), Calamagrostis
montanensis, Calamovilfa longifolia, Schizachyrium scoparium, Solidago
missouriensis, Stellaria media*, and *Thermopsis rhombifolia*.
Occasional *Rosa arkansana* shrubs are often present.

**Classification Comments:** This description is based on the *Artemisia
longifolia / Oryzopsis hymenoides* community type description by
DeVelice et al. (1995) from Montana. Information on the other
association was not available. Harvey (1982) and Jorgensen (1979)
described very similar shale barren communities in central Montana.

**Internal Comments:**

**Similar Alliances:**

-   *Arenaria hookeri* Barrens Herbaceous Alliance (A.1642)

**Similar Alliance Comments:** Stands in this alliance may be similar to
other acid shale barrens types, but these are dominated by *Artemisia
longifolia*.

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia longifolia / Oryzopsis hymenoides* community type
    (DeVelice et al. 1995) ?

-   shale barren communities (Jorgensen 1979) ?

-   shale barren communities (Harvey 1982) ?

ALLIANCE DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This vegetation is known from badlands in the
northwestern Great Plains. Elevation in Montana is approximately 1000 m.
The climate is semi-arid, temperate, continental. Mean annual
precipitation is approximately 32 cm. Two-thirds of the annual
precipitation occurs in the spring and early summer. Stands occur on dry
scree slopes and acid-shale barrens. Sites are common on moderate to
steep, highly eroded slopes with southern and western aspects. Substrate
may be deep, but are poorly develop, fine-textured soils derived from
acid marine shales (pH \<5). Because of a large coarse fraction of shale
fragments, these soils may be better drained than expected (DeVelice et
al. 1995).

**Vegetation:** Stands included in this minor alliance are found in the
northwestern Great Plains on acid-shale barrens. The sparse vegetation
layer is less than 1 m tall and is dominated by the perennial forb
*Artemisia longifolia* with *Eriogonum pauciflorum* sometimes
codominating. Scattered graminoids and other forbs are also typically
present, and may include *Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis
hymenoides), Calamagrostis montanensis, Calamovilfa longifolia,
Schizachyrium scoparium, Solidago missouriensis, Stellaria media*, and
*Thermopsis rhombifolia*. Occasional *Rosa arkansana* shrubs are often
present.

**Dynamics:**

ALLIANCE DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** Stands in this sparsely vegetated alliance occur in badlands
in the northwestern Great Plains in Montana, North Dakota and South
Dakota.

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** AB?, MT, ND, SD, SK?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331F:CC, 331G:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Badlands, Theodore Roosevelt)

ALLIANCE SOURCES

**References:** DeVelice et al. 1991, DeVelice et al. 1995, Harvey 1982,
Jorgensen 1979, MTNHP unpubl. data, McGregor and Barkley 1986

#### CEGL001521--*Artemisia longifolia - Calamovilfa longifolia* Sparse Vegetation

#### Longleaf Wormwood - Prairie Sandreed Sparse Vegetation {#longleaf-wormwood---prairie-sandreed-sparse-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Long-leaved Sage - Indian Ricegrass Sparse Vegetation* Classif. Resp.: West {#long-leaved-sage---indian-ricegrass-sparse-vegetation-classif.-resp.-west .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 2 - Moderate
**Stakeholders:** Canada, West

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** P. Lesica

**Concept Ref.:** Western Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Western Great Plains Cliff and Outcrop (CES303.665)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This sparse plant community is a distinctive minor
association occurring as small patches on steep, erosive and barren
slopes or colluvium at slope bases in badlands topography of
north-central Montana. It may occur in adjacent Canada if appropriate
habitat exits. The climate is semi-arid (annual average precipitation
10-14 inches), temperate and verging on continental; two-thirds of the
annual precipitation is received in spring and early summer. Parent
material is soft, dark and erosive marine shale of the Colorado,
Claggett and Bearpaw formations; these shales are quite fissile,
weathering to predominantly sand-sized shards and excessively
well-drained soils with a very acidic reaction (pH \<5.0). The
substrate\'s coarse texture and highly erosive nature precludes the
development of soil horizons. Total canopy cover rarely exceeds 20%.
*Rosa arkansana* is the only shrub with high constancy (mean canopy
cover 1%); it occurs in a dwarfed form due to the stressful nature of
these sites. The subshrubs *Eriogonum pauciflorum* and *Gutierrezia
sarothrae* are also highly constant. Common and diagnostic grasses
include *Calamovilfa longifolia* and *Calamagrostis montanensis*; their
canopy cover is usually in the range of 1-5%. The most common and
diagnostic forb is *Artemisia longifolia* (4-15% cover) with *Thermopsis
rhombifolia, Eriogonum pauciflorum*, and *Stephanomeria runcinata* also
consistently present.

**Classification Comments:** The original name of the association that
fits the above description was *Artemisia longifolia - Oryzopsis
hymenoides* but, when scrutinized was found to largely lack *Achnatherum
hymenoides (= Oryzopsis hymenoides)*, ostensibly the diagnostic species.
Stands lacking the above-cited diagnostic graminoids but having *Carex
inops* and/or *Schizachyrium scoparium* as the important graminoids, as
well as stands having *Artemisia longifolia* and other subshrubs as the
only diagnostic species present and very low species richness have been
observed in Valley County, Montana. The latter situation probably
accords with the concept of *Artemisia longifolia* Badlands Sparse
Vegetation (CEGL002195) found in the Dakota Badlands and is much more
likely to be found specifically on bentonite clays. Steep badland slopes
in Alberta support what has been termed an *Artemisia longifolia -
Ericameria nauseosa (= Chrysothamnus nauseosus)* community. It bears a
strong resemblance to that considered here, both in lack of canopy cover
and species composition, particularly if *Calamagrostis montanensis* is
accorded indicator status equivalent to that of *Calamovilfa
longifolia*.

Harvey (1982) described the *Artemisia longifolia / Calamovilfa
longifolia* community type from shale barrens in Musselshell and
Petroleum counties of north-central Montana. Jorgensen (1979) described
the *Rosa arkansana / Thermopsis rhombifolia* Habitat Type from shale
barrens in Petroleum and Fergus counties in north-central Montana.
Again, species composition is similar to *Artemisia longifolia /
Calamovilfa longifolia*, but relative abundances are somewhat different.
This type is probably synonymous with *Artemisia longifolia /
Achnatherum hymenoides* (Harvey 1982), and thus with this type.

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia longifolia* Badlands Sparse Vegetation (CEGL002195)

-   *Juniperus horizontalis / Carex inops* ssp. *heliophila*
    Dwarf-shrubland (CEGL001393)---Jorgensen (1979) also described a
    *Juniperus horizontalis / Carex heliophila* (misidentified as *Carex
    parryana*) Habitat Type from shale barrens in north-central Montana,
    and Harvey (1982) mentions a similar stand from the same area that
    he places in his *Artemisia longifolia / Calamovilfa longifolia*
    type. This vegetation is probably referable to the *Juniperus
    horizontalis / Carex heliophila* type described by Hansen and
    Hoffman (1988) for sandy soils of southeast Montana.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

-   *Artemisia longifolia / Achnatherum hymenoides* (Harvey 1982) =

-   *Artemisia longifolia / Calamovilfa longifolia* community type
    (Harvey 1982) =

-   *Artemisia longifolia/Oryzopsis hymenoides* (Bourgeron and
    Engelking 1994) =

-   *Rosa arkansana / Thermopsis rhombifolia* Habitat Type
    (Jorgensen 1979) =

-   DRISCOLL FORMATION CODE:V.B.2.f. (Driscoll et al. 1984) B

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** This community occurs on undeveloped soils derived from
outcrops of acid shale, often in badlands topography. It is found on
steep slopes, often with a southern or western aspect (DeVelice et al.
1991). Elevations range from about 3000 to 4000 feet. Mean annual
precipitation for the area is about 30 cm (Soil Conservation Service
1981b). Soils are derived from soft, dark, marine shales of the
Colorado, Claggett and Bearpaw formations. Soils are very acidic (pH
\<5.0) with high concentrations of clay shards that apparently provide a
sandy texture (Jorgensen 1979, Harvey 1982). Wind erosion is common on
these sites.

**Vegetation:** Total canopy cover is low (10-20%) (DeVelice et al.
1991, Jorgensen 1979), and consequently composition is variable. Shrubs
are uncommon; *Rosa arkansana* is the only constant species (mean canopy
cover of 1%). Common graminoids include *Calamovilfa longifolia* and
*Calamagrostis montanensis*. Common and diagnostic forbs include
*Artemisia longifolia* (4-14%), *Thermopsis rhombifolia* (1-3%), and
*Eriogonum pauciflorum* (DeVelice et al. 1991, Harvey 1982, Jorgensen
1979).

**Dynamics:** Wind erosion is common because of the exposed positions
and lack of vegetal cover (DeVelice et al. 1991, Harvey 1982).

**Adjacent Associations:**

-   Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata / Hesperostipa comata Shrubland
    (CEGL002966)

**Adjacent Association Comments:** Adjacent communities with soils of
near-neutral reaction are *Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata /
Hesperostipa comata* Shrubland (CEGL002966) or *Stipa comata / Bouteloua
gracilis* (Harvey 1982). *Artemisia tridentata* and *Pascopyrum smithii*
or *Elymus lanceolatus* may dominate adjacent communities elsewhere
(Jorgensen 1979).

**Other Comments:**

**Description Author:** P. Lesica **Version:** 9-Jul-1997

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** G3G4 **GRank Review Date:** 18-Dec-2000

**GReasons:** Though there are not many confirmed occurrences of this
association, this observation may just reflect the fact that the
association has not received a concerted inventory. It should be
considered quite secure in terms of imminent threats being relatively
broadly distributed and of no particular value for resource extraction,
either on site or in a larger landscape context. For these reasons, the
rank has changed from G3? to G3G4.

**Ranking Author:** S.V. Cooper **Version:** 18-Dec-2000

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** The known extent is a four-county area (Valley, Musselshell,
Petroleum, and Fergus) in central to north-central Montana (DeVelice et
al. 1991, Harvey 1982, Jorgensen 1979). There is a strong indication
that it occurs in neighboring portions of Alberta and is predicted to
exist in western Saskatchewan if appropriate shale substrates are
present.

**Nations:** CA?, US

**Subnations:** AB?, MT:S3S4, SK?

**TNC Ecoregions:** 26:C

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331D:CC, 331G:C?

**Federal Lands:**

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Bourgeron and Engelking 1994, DeVelice et al. 1991,
DeVelice et al. 1995, Driscoll et al. 1984, Hansen and Hoffman 1988,
Harvey 1982, Jorgensen 1979, Soil Conservation Service 1981b, Western
Ecology Working Group n.d.

#### CEGL002195--*Artemisia longifolia* Badlands Sparse Vegetation

#### Longleaf Wormwood Badlands Sparse Vegetation {#longleaf-wormwood-badlands-sparse-vegetation .unnumbered}

#### *Badlands Longleaf Sage Sparse Vegetation* Classif. Resp.: Midwest {#badlands-longleaf-sage-sparse-vegetation-classif.-resp.-midwest .unnumbered}

**Classif. Level:** Association **Conf.:** 3 - Weak **Stakeholders:**
Midwest

**Status:** Standard **Origin:** 26-Nov-1997

**Concept Auth.:** D. Faber-Langendoen

**Concept Ref.:** Midwestern Ecology Working Group n.d.

**Ecological Systems:**

-   Western Great Plains Badlands (CES303.663)

ELEMENT CONCEPT

**Summary:** This longleaf wormwood sparse vegetation type is found in
the badlands regions of the northern Great Plains of the United States.
Stands are found on sparsely vegetated, eroding slopes or flat clay
ridges. Some slopes may be acidic, others more alkaline. Soils are
poorly consolidated clays and silts. Stands may be particularly common
on bentonite clay bands found on the ridges and slopes of the badlands.
The vegetation is sparse, often much less than 10% cover, and species
richness is very low. Short shrubs are the most conspicuous. *Artemisia
longifolia* is the most frequent, or it may be associated with *Atriplex
nuttallii, Eriogonum pauciflorum*, or *Gutierrezia sarothrae*.

**Classification Comments:** Bare soil may be extensive. See also
Eroding Great Plains Badlands Sparse Vegetation (CEGL002050).

**Similar Associations:**

-   *Artemisia longifolia - Calamovilfa longifolia* Sparse Vegetation
    (CEGL001521)

-   *Eriogonum pauciflorum - Gutierrezia sarothrae* Badlands Sparse
    Vegetation (CEGL005270)

-   Eroding Great Plains Badlands Sparse Vegetation (CEGL002050)---This
    type contains virtually no vegetation.

-   Great Plains Badlands Sparse Vegetation Complex (CECX005704)---This
    badlands complex includes this association.

**Similar Association Comments:**

**Related Concepts:**

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION

**Environment:** Stands, which may be less than 0.1 ha in size (at least
in Badlands National Park, South Dakota), are found on sparsely
vegetated eroding slopes or flat clay ridges. Some slopes may be acidic,
others more alkaline. Soils are poorly consolidated clays and silts.
Stands may be particularly common on bentonite clay bands found on the
ridges and slopes of the badlands (Von Loh et al. 1999).

**Vegetation:** The vegetation is sparse, often much less than 10%
cover, and species richness is very low. Short shrubs are the most
conspicuous. *Artemisia longifolia* is the most frequent, and it may be
associated with *Atriplex nuttallii, Eriogonum pauciflorum*, or
*Gutierrezia sarothrae* (Von Loh et al. 1999).

**Dynamics:**

**Adjacent Associations:**

**Adjacent Association Comments:**

**Other Comments:** In Badlands National Park, South Dakota, a 2-ha
stand of *Atriplex canescens* is included in this type. It occupies a
large badlands flat and erosion fan, consisting of hardpacked silty
clay. Associated shrubs include *Gutierrezia sarothrae* and *Opuntia
polyacantha*. Associated herbs include *Salsola tragus, Pascopyrum
smithii, Bouteloua gracilis*, and *Hesperostipa comata* (Von Loh et al
1999).

**Description Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 24-Aug-1999

ELEMENT GLOBAL RANK & REASONS

**GRank:** GNR **GRank Review Date:** 3-Oct-1996

**GReasons:**

**Ranking Author:** D. Faber-Langendoen **Version:** 28-Sep-1999

ELEMENT DISTRIBUTION

**Range:** This badlands longleaf wormwood type is found in the Badlands
regions of the northern Great Plains of the United States, particularly
in the western Dakotas.

**Nations:** US

**Subnations:** ND, SD

**TNC Ecoregions:**

**USFS Ecoregions:** 331F:CC

**Federal Lands:** NPS (Badlands, Theodore Roosevelt)

ELEMENT SOURCES

**References:** Midwestern Ecology Working Group n.d., Von Loh et al.
1999

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