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either feeding or loafing. Based on literature searches and extensive personal experience <br /> with the flock on Bract Tract and Cosumnes Preserve, it is concluded that Buckeye Ranch <br /> does not provide suitable habitat nor will the planned development impact greater sandhill <br /> cranes. In our opinion the greatest threat to sandhill cranes in the region around Buckeye <br /> Ranch remains the conversion of pastures and open farmland to vineyards. <br /> Permanent Emergent Marsh <br /> Very little permanent emergent marsh exists on the site. The "beaver pond" was formed by <br /> damming an arm of South Tracy Lake. It is currently maintained by irrigation runoff from <br /> adjacent vineyards. Approximately 2.62 acres of this habitat are found at the site (Photo <br /> 4). Permanent, emergent marshes contain water year-long. These areas are characterized <br /> as having a water depth from several inches to 3 feet. Typical permanent marsh plants <br /> consist of emergents such as hardstem bulrush, cattail, and smartweed. <br /> Wildlife Relationships <br /> The small acreage of permanent marsh occurring on the property does not provide suitable <br /> habitat for typical wetland species. The three most noticeable species remain marsh wren <br /> (Cistothorus palustris), red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) and song sparrow <br /> (Melospiza melodia). All probably nest in the emergent cattail stands on the property. <br /> 2.54 Riparian Habitats <br /> Great Valley riparian vegetation typically consists of winter deciduous vegetation <br /> associated with low-velocity rivers and creeks,deep alluvial soils, and a high water table. <br /> During the summer months, plant life is sustained by a relatively high water table <br /> Buckeye Ranch Resource Plan (November, 1993) <br /> 58 <br />