HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems
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HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems |
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Granite Mountains MAP Satellite As the name implies, these mountains are primarily
granitic outcroppings, mostly of the Mesozoic age. Much of the granite is
quartz monzonite and exhibits remarkable exfoliation. Near Cottonwood Springs on the
eastern slope there is a complex of Precambrian and Mesozoic plutonic
rocks. Alluvial slopes with
washes which drain the area provide the habitat for a variety of
vegetation including some Great Basin and Colorado desert species nearing
their southern and northern limits, respectively. Scattered in the upper reaches is a pinyon-juniper
woodland, Pinus monophylla and Juniperus osteosperma. On the alluvial
slopes a Yucca-cholla association, which in this area is one of the better
examples in the eastern Mojave, gives way in the lower elevations to
sparser creosote scrub association.
Catclaw, Acacia greggii, is common in the washes. The rare Penstemon stephensii is
found only in this and a few adjacent areas. Relatively abundant water sources have led to a rich
and varied fauna including desert bighorn, Ovis canadensis, coyote,
Canis
latrans, ringtail cat, Bassariscus astutus, and numerous other mammals,
birds and reptiles. Integrity:
Some buildings, fences, watering troughs, roads and trails are
found in the area. Suitable
areas are grazed and, in several parts, overgrazed. The area has long been
a study area for numerous educational institutions. Use: Research, educational, observational, light recreation, present with controlled grazing. December 1975
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