SU0013451 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Ecological Evaluation of Brovelli Woods P.C. Muick Former Oak Forest - Old Field The field to the southeast bordering the river has a very high potential for restoration to a closed canopy forest since it was cleared in the past 20 years and some information about boundaries, composition and density can be gathered from the airphotos . This would also extend the existing oak forest along the river from the currently unfragmented portion. The owners are agreeable to restoring the forest in this location and creating a horse pasture in the middle of the field. Oak-Buckeye Savanna and Grasslands The area of heaviest use coincides with the oak-buckeye savanna. This area could support a density of trees two to three times greater than present based on historic air photos. In particular , attention should be focused on the buckeyes . No sapling sized buckeyes were noticed and more information on ecology and natural regeneration of this species would be helpful . Within the savanna areas , one or two several-acre sized areas may be suitable for perennial grass restoration efforts primarily to protect existing vernal pools or for demonstration value. Proximity to Cosumnes Preserve means seed harvested on one site may be suitable for both locations and an efficiency of scale may make the restoration effort more attractive. The annual grassland area around the lakes on the eastern side of the parcel adjoining the lakes is an excellent candidate for restoration to perennial native species. Restoration may eventually reduce the maintenance needs of this area. The eastern portion of the property is tentatively scheduled as a preserved area protected both by easements and the Williamson Act. Integrating wildlife and vegetation protection and management are the highest priority. Native perennial grass restoration could be combined with protection of the vernal pools. Broad boundaries of native perennial grasses could be established as buffers around the pools . The Lakes and Woody Vegetation of the Lake Margins The enhancement of Tracy Lakes as a year round water body has been titled the restoration of Tracy Lakes by the Engineering Firm. Without further investigation it is unclear how much the vegetation around the lakes would be changed by altering the hydrology. Certainly, new species such as cattail , water hyacinth and other shallow water species will establish themselves . If the lakes are deepened this may have additional or different effects. Since the southern lake is currently envisioned as a reservoir which may occasionally dry out, it is likely to more accurately represent 7 the recent natural vegetation of the site. In general , the lake edges will naturally regenerate and, consequently, artificial enhancement is a lower priority in this area. '� � 17