Preserving biodiversity with traditional knowledge
A new partnership is using traditional ecological knowledge to enhance the preservation of California biodiversity. We began the process by identifying and locating specimen Black Oaks at Pepperwood Preserve.
Reconstructing fire history
We use tree ring analysis of California Bay, Coast Live Oak, and Tanoak to reconstruct fire return intervals in North Bay ecosystems. Study sites include Shiloh Ranch, Osborn, Los Guillicos and Galbreath Preserves.
Effects of fire on wildlife
95% of the Pepperwood Preserve burned during the 2017 North Bay fires. We examine the effects of the North Bay Fires on various species of herpetofauna.
Technology to control feral pigs
Checking invasive pig traps daily in remote backcountry areas can logistically impossible. The Smart Animal Trap is an innovative wild pig trapping system that closes the door only when a pig enters the trap, and then sends a notification to the land manager.
Petaluma wetland bird diversity
We calculated and compared species diversity indices for birds observed by the Petaluma Wetlands Alliance in March surveys between 2010 and 2019.
Effects of microclimate on herpetofaunal diversity
Multiple studies that assess suitability of habitat for reptiles and amphibians.
Carbon sequestration in wetlands
The amount of organic carbon is a direct indicator of the soil’s ability to sequester carbon dioxide. We study how organic carbon varies with land use and habitat type.
California red-legged frog studies
We are studying the habitat requirements, and effects of bullfrogs and rainfall on frog movement to help identify factors that could improve California red-legged frog conservation.
Tiger salamander movement and distribution
The California tiger salamander, Ambystoma califoriense. is an endangered species that is endemic to California. To better understand the movement patterns and distribution of this species, we studied the movement of adult salamanders movement between aquatic and upland habitat on the Santa Rosa Plain, and investigated how environmental factors affect reproduction.
Growth and recruitment in western pond turtles
The western pond turtle (Emys marmorata) is listed as a California Species of Special Concern. We are studying factors that influence growth rate, a key variable in maintaining viable populations.