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Map Satellite Steep, north-facing mountains of intermediate elevation in proximity to the desert have generated a remarkably diverse and unique biota in this canyon. Here is an excellent example of the transition between several communities: chaparral at the lower elevations, foothill dry conifer woodland in mid-elevations, and at the highest elevations more mesic coniferous forests. Nine species of oaks, Quercus spp., are found in this area, as are hybrid swarms. The chaparral is dominated by chamise, Adenostoma fasciculatum, mountain mahogany, Cercocarpus betuloides, coffeeberry, Rhamnus californica, etc. In the foothill woodland areas the dominant trees are gray pine, Pinus sabiniana, horsechestnut, Aesculus californica, and bay, Umbellularia californica. The first two species reach their southernmost limits in this region. At the higher levels are found Jeffrey pine, Pinus jeffreyi, and the big-cone Douglas fir, Pseudotsuga macrocarpa. The latter is also found in some of the deep canyons. Integrity: Excellent, in the canyon. There are no trails or roads Use: Research, educational. April 1975
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2008 Steven Louis Hartman
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