Ecosystem of the Carrizo Plain

This astounding ecological reserve contains a diverse collaboration of scrub and woodland. Lower elevations are saturated by spiny saltbush and iodine bush and many pools emerging in winter months. (California Department of Fish and Wildlife, 2015)

Among these pools is Soda Lake, one of the most characteristic features of the grasslands. When winter rainfall is plentiful, Soda lake sustains winter fowl. When the water evaporates it leaves lush remnants of minerals maintaining a platform for rare animals and vegetations to thrive. (Los Padres ForestWatch, 2013)

The San Andreas fault plays a large role in this cohesive system. The infamous fault, which crosses the eastern side of the Plain affects the path of some streams ultimately creating what are known as “sag ponds”. Sag ponds are formed in the lowest depressions of active strike-slip fault zones. These ponds harbor rainwater and habituate endangered species (Los Padres ForestWatch, 2013).

Wildlife-friendly
Watering holes

Located on Carrizo Plain Conservancy-owned conservation lands, watering holes like this provide support for wildlife. Partnering with Sequoia Riverlands Trust, the conservation lands manager on our Jenck’s Pond lands, we’re improving this stock pond for wildlife.