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Map Satellite Most of this area, which lies in the central portion of Long Valley, is covered by a sagebrush scrub, with Artemisia tridentata the dominant. There are, however, some alkali sinks with Allenrolfea occidentalis and Atriplex confertifolia, scattered grasslands, and, along the Owens River, some freshwater marsh and riparian growth. Several species of uncommon plants occur in the area, Thelypodium brachycarpum, Astragalus johannis-howellii, and Eriogonum ampullaceum.
Animals are typical and abundant. Of note are some of the birds that occur in the area. American avocet, Recurvirostra americana, nest here, and there are several strutting grounds for the sage grouse, Centrocercus urophasianus. Many migratory birds winter here, including bald eagles, Haliaeetus leucocephalus.
Soils in most of the area are Recent alluvium or Quaternary lacustrine deposits laid down by Long Valley Lake, which existed during the glacial periods. Lake terrace traces are visible.
Integrity: Much of the valley is grazed, and there are roads and buildings in the area. However, the sage grouse are locally abundant.
Use: Research, educational, observational.
January 1980
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
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