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.
New device for monitoring steelhead larvae
We created a device to monitor temperature, oxidation reduction potential, and light value of tanks used by Trout Unlimited to raise the trout eggs they provide at schools for programs like "Steelhead in the Classroom".
Frequency of ticks carrying Lyme disease
Western black-legged ticks, Ixodes pacificus, are carriers of Lyme disease and can be often found in local grasslands. We assessed ticks from two Sonoma County sites that receive visitors daily: Pepperwood Preserve and Fairfield Osborn Preserve. We found no evidence of Lyme disease at either preserve.
Effects of land use on water quality
Macroinvertebrate, bacterial and water quality studies of Copeland Creek
Steelhead habitat quality studies
Phan et al 2016: We investigated the levels of fine sediment at two locations in Sonoma Creek, to assess habitat suitability for s