Landels-Hill Big Creek Reserve

11 Apr, 02 AM - 11 Apr, 11 AM

Fire Followers at Big Creek reserve w/ Dave Nelson Part of the UCSC Natural Reserve System, Big Creek covers 4400 acres adjacent to the Ventana wilderness. Most of the 14000 acre Big Creek watershed burned in the 1999 Kirk Fire and it was stopped on the Dolan Ridge firebreak, which divides Big Creek from coastal slopes, Rat, Dolan and Lime Creeks. The Basin fire of 2008 was stopped on the same firebreak. On this hike we will examine burned landscapes both 10 years after AND 8 months after by hiking up part of the firebreak after ascending though the unburned Interpretive Trail. We'll also see the impacts of 'fire suppression' and inventory POST-FIRE ENDEMICS AND non-native INVASIVE taxa for the reserve MANAGER. Once on the firebreak the views are stunning of the north and south coasts. The firebreak ascends to over 4000 feet in the Ventana wilderness but this area is currently closed. The firebreak is so steep I know I'll not get above 2000 feet but this should take us into acres of coastal grasslands, coastal scrub, mixed hardwoods and chaparral. Expect a moderate to strenuous (steep) roundtrip of 8+ miles, with a shorter less strenuous option if requested in advance. Please wear real hiking boots, and bring plenty of water, snacks, layers, and sun protection. RSVP required. Call Dave Nelson 831- 667-2879

Visit #17305 @Landels-Hill Big Creek Reserve

Approved

Under Project # 19571 | Public Use

CNPS Docent-led activity

docent - California Native Plant Society

Reservation Members(s)

Group of 18 Volunteer Apr 11, 2009 (1 days)

Reserve Resources(s) | Create Invoice

Day use 18 Apr 11 (9 hours)
Day Use Only 18 Apr 11 (9 hours)