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Ecological Evaluation of Brovelli Woods P.C. Muick <br /> Vernal Pools <br /> Some potential on the site exists for enhancement or <br /> reconstruction of vernal pools. Although I would place this low on <br /> the priority list, further identification of existing pools and <br /> conflicts in the siting of fairways or homes may result in a <br /> higher priority. Combining protection of vernal pools with native <br /> perennial grassland restoration has been mentioned previously . <br /> RECOMMENDATIONS <br /> The first priority of the conservation easement for Brovelli <br /> Woods is to protect as much of the closed canopy oak forest as <br /> possible. Protection of the vernal pools, including a more complete <br /> identification and mapping effort, is the second priority. The goals <br /> of the easement are summarized in the following five statements . <br /> 1 . Preserve as much of the forest as possible , including those areas <br /> between fairways if reasonable agreements can be reached. <br /> The highest priority value of the property at this time is the forest. <br /> 2 . Preserve the vernal pools and determine the grazing or maintenance <br /> system necessary to maintain their health. <br /> 3 . Monitor the property regularly for both ecological information and <br /> compliance with the easement agreement. The suggested monitoring <br /> schedule is four times annually until construction, frequently during <br /> construction, and biannually for the first five years after <br /> construction. <br /> 4 . Include a representative from The Nature Conservancy at all stages <br /> of the planning process and construction. Since the plans for the site <br /> are still in the development phase and are likely to remain that way <br /> till the end of the construction period , TNC presence can shape the <br /> protection of ecological values far better than language in an easement <br /> agreement. Clearly the optimal time to bring in TNC 's viewpoint and <br /> concerns is during these initial planning stages. <br /> In addition, and I "m sure its standard , include an "exit" clause <br /> for the agreement - since it may come to pass that the needs of these <br /> two groups may fall out of mutuality. <br /> 5 . Restore the oak forest along the southern sweep of the Mokelumne <br /> River. A further discussion of the restoration is included under the <br /> restoration section. <br /> 18 <br />