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Map Satellite In this region, which divides the Kern River drainage from the Mojave Desert, are two distinct and well-defined plant communities. Xeric chaparral covers over half the area and includes creosote bush, Larrea tridentata, Mormon tea, Ephedra viridis, and the California juniper, Juniperus californica, as the dominant tree. The remaining area is typical Joshua tree high desert with good stands of the Joshua tree, Yucca brevifolia var. herbertii, mixed with rabbit brush, Chrysothamnus nauseosus ssp. mohavensis, and buckwheat, Eriogonum trichopes. The rare Calochortus striatus is found in the area. Animal life is typical of the high desert, with such species as the desert tortoise, Gopherus agassizi, and mourning dove, Zenaidura macroura, present. There are archaeological sites in the area. Integrity: Relatively undisturbed, though there are numerous off-road vehicle traces in portions. The nearby Isabella region is expanding, and increased pressures may be put on this area. Use: Research, educational, observational, light recreation. December 1975
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2008 Steven Louis Hartman
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