Point Molate/Point San Pablo Area
Map SatelliteApproximately forty percent of this area is chaparral, coastal sage scrub or exotic woodland; however, several excellent examples of native perennial grassland occur scattered throughout the grassland portion of the site. Common native species include Nassella pulchra, Agrostis pallens, Danthonia californica, Festuca rubra, Festuca californica, and Leymus triticoides. These areas have strongly resisted encroachment by brush species.
There is also a small salt marsh.
Animal life is relatively sparse; however, more than 100 species of birds, mainly water-oriented, have been observed in the area.
Geologically, rocks of the Franciscan Formation form the Point. The San Pablo Fault, paralleling the ridge line, lies immediately to the northeast of the area.
Integrity: Disturbed in places; portions of the area are in active industrial or military use. The hill areas, however, are relatively undisturbed.
Use: Private, military
March 1980
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman