Merced River Riparian Area

Along the banks of the Merced River for a distance of some 30 kilometers (20 miles) are vestigial stands of the original Central Valley riparian association. These stands are found intermittently from Highway 99 eastward to Merced Falls and vary in width along the river course from 45 meters (150 feet) to 760 meters (2,500 feet); however, in various portions of the area agricultural activities have eliminated the native vegetation. The dominant species include cottonwood, Populus fremontii, white alder, Alnus rhombifolia, valley oak, Quercus lobata, and various willows, Salix spp.

Toward the foothills there are extensive deposits of tailings which, depending upon their extent, are laced with marshy pools and bordered with the riparian association.

The stands, depending upon the size, support a variety and abundance of wildlife including the river otter, Lutra canadensis, and numerous birds. The rare giant garter snake, Thamnophis couchi gigas, may be present.

Integrity: As these stands are intermittent, their quality varies; some are virtually undisturbed, others highly disturbed. Tailings have devastated portions of the area.

Use: Research, educational, observational, Most of the area is private. (See McConnell State Recreation Area).

January 1977