Bernard Field Station

Map Satellite

Located on the flood plain of San Antonio Creek, the Bernard Field Station supports remnants of the once more abundant coastal sage scrub. Additionally, there is an artificial lake which is being managed to recreate an aquatic habitat with elements native to the Los Angeles Basin.

The coastal sage scrub includes such species as coastal sagebrush, Artemisia californica, white sage, Salvia apiana, and California buckwheat, Eriogonum fasciculatum. Among other species present are laurel sumac, Malosma laurina, red berry, Rhamnus crocea, and coffeeberry, Rhamnus californica. There is also a grove of coast live oak, Quercus agrifolia, and sycamore, Platanus racemosa, with Baccharis emoryi the conspicuous member of the understory.

The lake, which has a surface area of approximately 1 hectare (2.4 acres) and ranges up to 6.4 meters (21 feet) deep, was constructed Zannichellia palustris, water-nymph, Najas marina, bulrush, Scirpus californicus, and cattail, Typha sp.

Animals are relatively abundant and typical of the region.

The station lies on an alluvial outwash.

Integrity: Much of the area has been severely impacted. A portion was cultivated until the 1950's and has been plowed since. There are exotic plants, fire roads and buildings. However, several sections occur where there are good stands of sage scrub, some of which are in a successional state after a fire in the early 1970's.

Use: Research, educational.

Anon. 1979. Guide to the Bernard Field Station. Mimeo 110 pp. Pomona College, Claremont, Cal.

April 1982