Common (Translated Scientific) Name: Blue Spruce / Kentucky Bluegrass Ruderal Riparian Woodland

Colloquial Name: No Data Available

Hierarchy Level:  Association

Type Concept: This association is found in the Pecos and Rio Grande basins of north-central New Mexico. Preliminary data suggest that it occurs on high, flat terraces of narrow montane streams. Terrace formation is usually between low riverbars and higher, drier, upland hillslopes. Soils of this type are loamy and silty over a gravelly-cobbly matrix. Soils have high plant-available water, and they can have wetness (hydric) indicators, but these are deep in the soil profile. On sites near the active stream channels, soils can be relatively moist (coarse-silty Oxyaquic Ustifluvents); others are drier and more developed (Fluventic Dystrochrepts), particularly on older terraces. Most sites are estimated to flood infrequently (75- to 100-year flood-recurrence interval). The type is known to occur at upper elevations ranging between 2350 and 2775 m (7725-9100 feet). It is characterized by an open canopy of Picea pungens with a grassy understory dominated by Poa pratensis, with only scattered, if any, shrubs. Overall species diversity is moderately high with 67 species recorded for the type, of which 14 are introduced exotics, and 12 are native wetland indicators.

Diagnostic Characteristics: No Data Available

Rationale for Nominal Species or Physiognomic Features: No Data Available

Classification Comments: First described by Moir and Ludwig (1979) as a habitat type in forests of the Southwest, their sites were very diverse (34-49 species), and willows and alders occasionally occurred as shrubs.

Similar NVC Types: No Data Available

note: No Data Available