Indicators of Effective Energy Flow

Good Energy Flow requires

1. Covered soil surfaces
2. High plant density
3. Good soil aeration and permeability
4. Vigorous root systems on grazed plants
5. Many species of mesophytic or middle type plants.  These plants allow an extended growing period in effective water cycle conditions
6. Many broad leafed grass species
7. Short grazing periods combined with adequate recovery periods

Poor Energy Flow is a consequence of

1. Exposed, capped or impermeable soil surfaces, often due to poor grazing practices
2. Associated weak and damaged root systems
3. A low number of species
4. Low successional xerophytic and hydrophytic species who utilise various devices to minimise respiration and therefore growth