Cabrillo National Monument

Impacts of human trampling and periodic sand inundation on the intertidal algal turf communities of the Cabrillo National Monument

Disturbance has been widely recognized as an important structuring agent in many communities. This research examines the influence of the natural disturbance, sand inundation, an anthropogenic disturbance, and human trampling on the intertidal algal turf communities of the Cabrillo National Monument. The results of this study will be valuable to park staff in making future management decisions, particularly with respect to visitation in sensitive intertidal areas.

Assessment of soil condition suitability for the potential translocation receiver sites for the endangered Pacific pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris pacificus)

Prior to translocating endangered Pacific pocket mice to sites within Cabrillo national Monument, this study is evaluating soil characteristics for suitability as receiver sites for pocket mice re-introduction.

Channel Islands National Park

Archaeological studies of midden sites

Archaeological surveys and midden site mapping. Studies of distribution of midden sites, location and size relationships to environmental characteristics, mapped on GIS and archived.

Effects of fire on Nassella specicies at Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands National Park

This work is evaluating changes in native grass species (Nassella species) population dynamics following fire on Santa Cruz Island. Results of this work will have important implications for determining if and how fire may be utilized to restore native grassland communities on the Channel Islands.

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Paleontological survey of Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

A combination of museum records searches, expert interviews, and field reconnaissance was completed to help document information on 2,300 know fossil localities, representing over a dozen fossiliferous geological formations.

Post-fire erosion and sediment transfers in the Santa Monica Mountains

Comparative evaluations of the nature and magnitude of the post-fire erosion and sediment transfer were conducted within the perimeters of the burn areas that differed in post-fire management actions.

Recreational trail use survey in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

A team of researchers surveyed park visitors at locations across the Santa Monica Mountains to assess park user demographics, recreational use patterns, attitudes toward protecting park resources, attitudes toward other users, travel distances, and barriers to park access.