Zaca Lake
Map SatelliteZaca Lake, covering some 12 hectares (30 acres), is the only natural freshwater lake in the County
The surrounding area is largely a typical foothill woodland community with Quercus agrifolia and Pinus coulteri the dominant cover, particularly on the north-facing slopes. Along the stream which flows down the canyon and by the lake there are riparian and lakeside communities with willows, Salix spp. and sycamore, Platanus racemosa, the most conspicuous elements.
The fauna is typical of the San Rafael Mountains; however, the year-round water source is conducive to a relatively high density of amphibians. The Western pond turtle, Clemmys marmorata, is found here. The lake supports a population of warm-water fish.
Contorted strata of Miocene Monterey Formation shale are faulted at the canyon floor and at one point are overrun by a Quaternary landslide which forms the sill of the lake.
Zaca Lake is holomictic, its waters experiencing an annual overturning, and it is also eutrophic, having a greater nutrient enrichment than its non-agriculture watershed would be expected to provide.
There are several archaeological sites in the area, one dating approximately 6,000 B.P.
Integrity: The area has been the site of a small resort with lodge and cabins, for over 50 years, and there are some trails in the area. Much of it, however, remains in relatively pristine condition.
Use: Private
Ref: Dames & Moore, 1973. Zaca Lake 73-EIR-16, County of Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara.
July 1975
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman