HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems
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HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems |
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Along this stretch of the Kern Channel, just south of the Tulare Lakebed (see Tulare Lake Basin Area), are remnants of the once extensive riparian habitats and alkaline playas of the region. A prominent but scattered community is the valley marshland, with the common tule, Scirpus acutus, dominant. In portions of the area are patches of a riparian association which includes black willow, Salix gooddingii, the exotic Tamarix ramosissima, and the wild heliotrope, Heliotropium curassavicum (var. oculatum). This community intergrades into an alkaline playa community, which occupies much of the area and includes iodine bush, Allenrolfea occidentalis, and quail bush, Atriplex lentiformis. Two rare plants may be found in the area, Cirsium crassicaule and Atriplex vallicola. During the migratory season, numerous waterfowl and shorebird utilize the area, as do various raptors. The rare San Joaquin kit fox, Vulpes macrotis mutica, and the endangered blunt-nosed leopard lizard, Crotaphytus wislizenii silus, occur here. There are remnants of the old Kern River channel. Integrity: Over half the area is in cropland and there are numerous levees to contain the seasonal runoff; however, there are relatively undisturbed portions. Use: Private May 1977 Kern |
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