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Map Satellite A popular resort area occupies a portion of this region which is included for its botanic interest. The hillsides are covered with chaparral, with buck brush, Ceanothus cuneatus, and gooseberry, Ribes quercetorum, prominent. There is some grassland with Nassella cernua and non-native Bromus diandrus. Along the Kern River there is a riparian community, with dusky willow, Salix melanopsis, and cottonwood, Populus fremontii, dominant. In the gravelly area by the river banks the rare Erigeron multiceps is found, as is the rare Kernville poppy Eschscholzia californica (= Eschscholzia procera). A number of animals are found here, including a race of red-winged blackbird, Agelaius phoeniceus aciculatus, which is limited to east central Kern County mountain valleys. There are extensive Quaternary gravel beds on the canyon floor. Integrity: A number of summer homes and other buildings in the area have severely impacted portions of the area. Use: Research, educational, observational, light recreation. Portions are private. May 1977
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2008 Steven Louis Hartman
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