With its varied topography and soils, the center for research emcompasses several distinct habitats within a relatively small area.

Selected Research

• Fire ecology: Valentine Camp fire- history studies, stand-age analysis, and fuel-loading maps will be used to develop a fire management plan.
  
  
• Wetland mapping project: Identification and delineation of wetlands in Long Valley.
  
  
• Plant ecology: Population ecology, ecophysiology, and genetics of mountain brome grass.
  
  
• Avian ecology: Artificial nest boxes are used to attract house wrens for study in breeding behavior and endocrinology.
  
  
• Expanded research opportunities: Studies of insects, mammals, and amphibians are conducted on the reserve and at other regional sites.

Special Programs

Forest management: Low-impact horse-logging and hand crews engaged on site to reduce fire hazards and improve forest health.Public outreach: Outdoor science education programs for local schools; K-7 summer school; college internships; public tours; short courses.

Field courses: Site visits by university courses in wetland delineation, botany, and plants of the high country.

Environmental monitoring: Spring discharge at reserve monitored to assess effects of groundwater pumping by local Mammoth Lakes community; monitoring spring flows in Mammoth Creek; reserve manager monitors development in surrounding area and participates in local planning.

Page last updated Tuesday, July 29, 2003