Northern California Coast Range Preserve

This area includes the drainage basin of Elder Creek, one of the few remaining pristine watersheds in the State, according to the U. S. Geological Survey Hydrological Bench Mark Program. Elder Creek and the several other creeks which flow through the preserve are tributaries of the South Fork of the Eel River, which bisects the area.

As it is situated on the inner edge of the northern redwood range, it is a part of an ecotone where mesophytic species give way to those tolerating or requiring more arid environments. There are a number of communities within the confines, including redwood, mixed coniferous, Douglas fir, mixed evergreen, yellow pine and closed-cone pine (knobcone) forests, as well as chaparral, meadowland and riparian associations. One of the largest remaining virgin forests of Douglas fir of the California coastal type is found in the preserve.

Within the preserve there is an abundance of animal life typical of the North Coast Range. Of note are amphibians, for this area lies in the heart of the richest amphibian fauna area in western North America.

Integrity: Maintained as wilderness research area. There are several buildings and roads on the preserve and a small portion has been disturbed in the past.

Use: Research.

Ref: Stebbins, G. L., 1968. Preliminary List of Vascular Plants Found in the Northern California Coast Range Preserve. The Nature Conservancy Ecological Studies Leaflet No. 14, p. 45-51.

January 1975