Constructing Vernal Pools for Ecological Function: A Historical Study of Ten Vernal Pool Creation Sites in the Northern Central Valley, California
VNLC conducted a two-year study being funded by the Bureau of Reclamation under the Central Valley Improvement Act grant opportunity (with technical oversight by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) that examined historical trends and success of vernal pool restoration and creation at ten project sites (~500 pools) in the Sacramento Valley. VNLC completed the first year of this study in which we analyzed the physical characteristics of created versus natural vernal pools, pool design and construction methods, and management and monitoring requirements over the last twenty years. VNLC collected data on the hydrology, invertebrates, water quality, vegetation and site condition by several methods during the second year. Our final report provided a set of scientifically-based monitoring criteria (methods, schedules, and time frames) that are best suited to evaluate ecological function for vernal pool creation and restoration projects, and make specific recommendations for vernal pool design and construction.
Constructing Vernal Pools For Ecological Function Photo Gallery
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