Cheadle Center staff members and student researchers have been diligently conducting research across various fields and are currently showcasing their work at conferences, symposiums, and science fairs. This week, several staff members from the Cheadle Center will present at the California Society for Ecological Restoration (SERCAL) conference in Redlands, California. SERCAL, a non-profit membership-based organization, is dedicated to facilitating the recovery of damaged California ecosystems through conferences, field tours, workshops, and more. Chris Berry, Wayne Chapman, and Claire Wilhelm-Safian will share the unique insights they've gained from their various projects during the conference.
Chris Berry's presentation focuses on the integration of prescribed fire and grass-specific herbicides in annual wildflower restoration on Lagoon Island. The practice of prescribed fire on Lagoon Island began in 2006, following the research conducted by graduate student Alice Levine. Her findings revealed that an intense, hot fire burning at 200 degrees Celsius could reduce the Ripgut Brome (Bromus diandrus) seed bank by an impressive 99%. Furthermore, it was determined that the addition of supplemental woody fuel is essential to attain a fire hot enough for effective reduction. Subsequent weeding and planting of native shrubs were identified as crucial steps for the successful transformation of invasive grassland into native-dominated shrubland.
Pre-burn area dominated by Ripgut Brome (Bromus diandrus).
Post-burn area with native shrubs such as Bush Sunflower (Encelia californica)
Chris discusses a shift in restoration tactics in 2016, moving from planting California Sage Scrub species after fires to spreading thousands of seeds of locally sourced wildflower species and allowing shrub species to naturally fill in over time. This approach, involving meticulous seed collection and bulking, resulted in the creation of impressive wildflower fields, showcasing native forbs that bloomed for multiple years post-burn. Various wildflower species were included in this seeding strategy, such as Calandrinia menziesii, Camissoniopsis micrantha, Nuttallanthus texanus, Cryptantha clevelandii, Eschscholzia californica, Acmispon strigosus, and Antirrhinum nuttallianum. The establishment of this diverse native plant communities not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides resources for native fauna throughout the year, supporting numerous native pollinators.
Burn area immediately following the fire.
Post-burn area that was seeded with native wildflower mix.
These wildflowers zones on Lagoon Island support ongoing research activities, including monitoring the timing of blooming species and studying native pollinator behavior. Currently, students are monitoring the timing of blooming species on a weekly basis and observing the foraging preferences of Yellow-face bumblebees (Bombus vosnesenskii). In addition to these observations, they are actively capturing bees, collecting their pollen sacks, and testing the DNA within to determine precisely which groups of plants these native, generalist pollinators are choosing to visit.
This graph shows the proportional abundance of plant genera detected in the collected pollen sacks of Yellow-face bumblebees (Bombus vosnesenskii).
Challenges such as managing remaining grasses and controlling invasive forbs are acknowledged, with the use of grass-specific herbicide Clethodim identified as a valuable tool in managing invasive grasses without harming native plants.The restoration efforts on Lagoon Island have burned approximately 3.5 acres to date, with plans for further burns in the future. The island serves as a living laboratory for students and faculty, providing opportunities for hands-on learning and research in native ecosystems and habitat restoration.
This graph shows the increasing native cover in the 2014/2016 burn plot from 2008-2023.
This graph shows the increasing diversity of native plants in the 2014/2014 burn plot from 2008-2023.
Wayne Chapman's SERCAL presentation emphasizes the importance of maximizing restoration opportunities and promoting objectivity in environmental management efforts. He focuses on the need to consider the existing biodiversity in natural areas when implementing restoration strategies, advocating for a place-based approach that accounts for genetic and taxonomic diversity. Wayne also addresses the potential risks associated with subjective citizen involvement in restoration projects, such as the unintended consequences of planting non-native species like Mexican milkweed for monarch butterflies or feeding wildlife. He suggests viewing restoration sites through the lens of the area's rarest organisms and identifying micro-sites or subtle niches that can support these rare taxa, both plants and animals.
Ventura marsh milk-vetch (Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus) is an example of an exceedingly rare species that occupies a very specific niche.
Highlighting the significance of small-scale impacts, Wayne explains how even tiny micro-sites, no larger than a king-sized bed, can play a crucial role in conserving rare plants. He also discusses innovative approaches, such as pioneering artificial burrows for burrowing owls, to address the specific needs of rare organisms in the area. Overall, Wayne advocates for nuanced and tailored restoration efforts that go beyond generic messages, like "plant more trees," to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by each ecosystem.
This burrowing owl is taking shelter in an artificial burrow built by Wayne Chapman on the NCOS Mesa.
Claire Wilhelm-Safian's presentation dives deep into the collaborative research and conservation endeavors focused on the endangered Nipomo Lupine (Lupinus nipomensis). The Nipomo Lupine, a small annual herbaceous plant endemic to a small portion of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Sand Dune Complex in San Luis Obispo County, faces an array of threats that have led to its decline and endangerment. Collaborative efforts involving multiple organizations, including the Cheadle Center, California State Parks, the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County, and research affiliates such as Dr. Justin Luong, have been pivotal in studying and conserving the Nipomo Lupine. These initiatives have spanned over a decade and encompassed various aspects, including habitat restoration, population monitoring, and research on ecological interactions.
Nipomo Lupine (Lupinus nipomensis)
A primary concern highlighted is the encroachment of perennial veldt grass (Ehrharta calycina), which has aggressively invaded the lupine's habitat. Originating from its introduction as cattle feed, veldt grass has proliferated, transforming the once open sandy dunes into dense grasslands. This invasion has altered the landscape but also poses challenges such as outcompeting native vegetation, altering microclimate conditions, and increasing the risk of wildfires. Claire also delves into the impacts of drought and climate change on the lupine population. The Nipomo Lupine relies on cool, wet winters for germination and survival, making it particularly vulnerable to changes in climate patterns. With projections indicating potential increases in drought severity and frequency due to climate change, the lupine's habitat faces further jeopardy.
Perennial Veldt Grass (Ehrharta calycina)
Detailed studies have revealed the lupine's habitat preferences, with swales and north facing slopes identified as consistently preferred microhabitats. Furthermore, protective measures such as the use of cages to mitigate herbivory have been implemented and shown to be effective in safeguarding lupine populations. Recent endeavors have included the establishment of augmentation plots seeded with lupine to bolster population numbers. These efforts have yielded promising results, with significant increases in lupine populations observed in recent years.
A 10'x10' augmentation plot containing 500 Nipomo Lupine seeds.
However, challenges such as predation by granivorous birds and rodents persist, necessitating ongoing research and management efforts. Claire's presentation underscores the importance of continued collaboration and the contributions of various partners and funding agencies, emphasizing the collective commitment to conserving this endangered species and its unique habitat. While the Nipomo Lupine faces daunting threats, the collaborative research and conservation initiatives outlined in the presentation offer hope for its preservation.
In addition to providing research opportunities for staff members, Cheadle Center management areas are an invaluable resource for UCSB students interested in ecological research. Last month, UCSB student researchers presented multiple research projects at the EEMB symposium on April 20th.
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Students Emma Sayre and Nick Liu were interested in researching the complex interactions between algae, macroinvertebrates, and environmental factors in the Devereux Slough at NCOS, as well as local microalgal salinity tolerance. By gaining an understanding of these relationships, they hope to provide insights into ecosystem health and inform effective management strategies. Their methods involved monthly sampling at three sites: Venoco Bridge, the NCOS Main Channel, and the East Channel. Algae samples, approximately one gram each, were collected by hand and preserved in 70% isopropyl alcohol. Measurements of dissolved oxygen, temperature, and salinity were taken using a YSI meter, while pH was measured separately. Algae samples were identified using microscopy and a reference book, followed by sorting and counting of macroinvertebrates. Debris and sediment were removed from the samples using a mesh filter and alcohol rinse, then dried in an oven for 24 hours for dry weight determination.
Additionally, algae samples from Phelps Bridge were studied in a controlled aquarium environment with regular additions of sea salt. Algal populations were monitored using microscopy and ImageJ software, recording parameters like cell wall density, pigment levels, and movement over six weeks. They found that among the observed genera of algae, Tribonema stood out as a significant habitat, displaying the highest abundance and diversity of macroinvertebrates, notably chironomid larvae and copepods. When asked about the project, Emma Sayre expressed her thankfulness for NCOS, saying, "I have had an incredible time working on my research project about macroinvertebrates and algae at the North Campus Open Space. It has taught me so much about our local ecosystems and the process of lab work, fieldwork, and restoration. Everyone involved with the Cheadle Center has been a great source of support for me during this process!"
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Students Sophia Rose Cabral, Delaney O’Donnell, Emma Cardoso and staff member Alison Rickard conducted research on the abundance of algae and aquatic vegetation in the Devereux Slough. They utilized close-range and satellite imagery to analyze trends in algae and aquatic vegetation growth. Their findings revealed significant variability in the average percent frequency of algae abundance across different sites, with lower frequencies observed during periods when the estuary was open. While water quality variables are still being analyzed, preliminary observations suggest that water temperature may play a role in algae abundance, particularly at the Venoco Bridge site, where spikes in temperature correspond to spikes in algae abundance.
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Students Kaitlyn Briggs, Hibah Ganie, Owen Crosby, Arianna Huang and Director of Ecosystem Management Lisa Stratton researched the effects of campus lighting on humans, specifically how excessive light negatively impacts humans through reduced safety due to glare, disturbances in circadian rhythms, and diminished opportunities for stargazing. The team identified problematic lights near 12 campus residential areas and conducted field measurements of light intensity and color temperature. They then visualized the data using ArcGIS Online maps, illustrating color temperature gradients and light overlap. Sky light pollution was quantified using the Unihedron Sky Quality Meter at 6 zones, and attention-grabbing info flyers with QR codes for a student engagement survey were created and distributed.
The students found that there were 35 problematic lights around the residential areas of campus. Of these 35, 14 measured lights had color temperature values greater than 4000K, which can impact circadian rhythms. Additionally, 18 of the 35 measured lights had lux values that resulted in excessive light overlap, indicating excessive light intensity. They will recommend shields to campus lighting staff for purchase and installation on all problematic lighting fixtures, and will identify unnecessary lights that could be removed to save energy costs and reduce light overlap. When discussing the project, Kaitlyn Briggs stated "Collaborating with my team at the Cheadle Center and the campus lighting staff, our efforts towards mitigating light pollution on campus highlighted the importance of a community effort on a topic that impacts us all on a daily, or nightly, level. As this project will continue to evolve, it illuminates the significance of sustainable lighting practices, benefiting both students and the surrounding natural habitats, ensuring harmony with our cherished native wildlife."
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Students Calen Campos, An Bui, and Mary Cadogan, along with staff members Lisa Stratton and Wayne Chapman, focused their research on Nipomo Lupine (Lupinus nipomensis) seed predation. They placed trail cameras and bait stations containing L. nipomensis seeds to monitor seed removal. To assess the impact of invasive Veldt Grass (Ehrharta calycina) on seed predation, replicates were deployed adjacent to veldt stands and also far from veldt grass. Additionally, they deployed hardwire cages to assess the impact of fencing on predation of L. nipomensis seeds by native rodents. Their findings indicate that seed-eating rodents were the most abundant predators regardless of proximity to Veldt grass, and that caging significantly reduced seed predation.
Gabriele Scussat's science fair poster.
In addition to the abundance of collegiate research, Dos Pueblos High School student Gabriele Scussat conducted his own independent research on the effect of artificial light on Lepidoptera at NCOS. The primary aim of his study was to investigate the impact of both the spectra and the intensity of different artificial lights on the attraction of Lepidoptera, with a secondary goal of determining the most suitable type of artificial light for installation around NCOS to mitigate their adverse effects on Lepidoptera. He utilized five identical light bucket traps with five different types of artificial lights that were activated each night. Each combination of five artificial lights was tested over a 10-night period, and their positions were rotated each night, with a total of 13 different types of lights evaluated during this experiment. Each morning, he would remove the traps and record the combined number of Lepidoptera found under the lid and inside the bucket.
Gabriele found that white LEDs with intensities between 1100 lm and 3500 lm exhibited minimal attractiveness to Lepidoptera and recommends their use in areas surrounding NCOS. After completing the research, he competed in the Ventura County Science Fair and won 1st place in the Environmental Science category. He then advanced to the California State Science Fair, where he was awarded 3rd place in the Environmental Science category. Congratulations, Gabriele!