Biological Resources Survey of Mountain Springs Canyon on the Naval Weapons Center.
Abstract
A biological resource study of the 8500-acre Mountain Springs Canyon, located within the confines of the Naval Weapons Center, was conducted in May 1982 to update the general biological data base for the Center and to gain specific information about the study area for future resource management considerations. Seven vegetative habitats were identified: Creosote Bush scrub, Grayia-Lycium, Artemisia-Coleogyne, Haplopappus-Coleogyne, desert wash, riparian woodland, and pinyon pine woodland. Sixty-five bird species were observed, with the riparian areas and associated upland habitat supporting the majority of the species. State-endangered species observed included the Inyo Brown Towhee and Bell's Vireo. Few raptors were noted. Thirteen species of small mammals were capatured and several reptilian species were observed. No amphibians were found. The entire Mountain Springs Canyon area is regarded as a sensitive habitat. The most sensitive areas within the canyon are the riparian woodland, pinyon pine islands, creosote rings, and an abandoned mine-tunnel containing a population of Townsend's Eared Bats, a declining species.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA127121