COMMISSION

dip-netted for amphibian presence during the spring of 2013. At that time, American bullfrog
and Pacific chorus frog were present in multiple ponds. In 2014, several of the sediment
basins were dip-netted, with only American bullfrog confirmed for presence.
Incidental Data
Throughout 2015, incidental data was collected on numerous species including Northern
Pacific rattlesnake, alligator lizard (Elgaria multicarinata), and western fence lizard.
All incidental data is entered into a database under a custom programmed form titled
“Incidental Species Observations.” The data is automatically organized into tabular form that
can be queried and then exported into a spreadsheet.
Vegetation
Most of Prairie City SVRA is characterized by California
Annual Grassland habitat (Sawyer et al. 2009). Introduced
grasses and forbs dominate this landscape including
wild oats (Avena barbata), yellow star thistle (Centaurea
solstitialis), and broadleaf filaree (Erodium botrys). In the
winter rainy months, vernal pool seasonal wetlands can be
found in the grasslands of the park. The vernal pool areas
contain the highest diversity of native plants including
annual hairgrass (Deschapsia danthonioides) and yellow
mariposa lily (Calochortus luteus). On the eastern edge of
the park is a remnant of a blue oak (Quercus douglasii)
habitat. In addition, stands of Fremont cottonwood
(Populus fremontii), blue elderberry, and coyote brush
(Bacharis pilularis) are present in the park.
Oak tree
2017 Program Report 115