Virgin Valley
Map SatelliteSeveral plant communities typical of the region are found in this relatively small area traversed by Butte Creek. They are riparian, valley grassland, freshwater marsh (seasonal) and vernal pool communities.
Along the creek white alder, Alnus rhombifolia, sycamore, Platanus racemosa, cottonwood, Populus fremontii, coffeeberry, Rhamnus californica, California blackberry, Rubus ursinus, wild grape, Vitis californica, and poison oak, Toxicodendron diversilobum, are common.
In the grasslands there are a number of wildflowers including Blennosperma nanum and Lasthenia californica as well as a number of native grasses. Typha latifolia, Scirpus sp., Elodea sp., Equisetum spp., are among the plants found in or near the marsh.
The fauna is typical of the Central Valley. Beaver, Castor canadensis, have dammed an irrigation ditch.
Integrity: Aside from an irrigation ditch, most of the area is relatively undisturbed and its proximity to Chico makes it ideal for educational institutions' field studies.
Use: Private
September 1975
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
