COMMISSION

The limited sample size of four riding sites and four non-riding sites means that one year’s
worth of data will have a hard time illustrating statistical significance unless the mean
differences are drastic. The power of a study with such a low sample size is low; however,
multiple years of data can make up for this limitation. Future monitoring reports will compile
multiple years of data to determine trends in species richness and diversity both within
Clay Pit SVRA and in comparison to the nearby off-riding sites in addition to analysis on
population abundances for specific focal species.
Vernal Pool Monitoring Program
The most recent surveys of occupied vernal pools occurred during the 2012 Clay Pit SVRA
General Plan process. However, Twin Cities District environmental scientists took the
necessary training and field requirements from USFW in 2016 to obtain permits to begin
vernal pool crustaceans monitoring in 2017.
Eastern Kern County, Onyx Ranch SVRA
Resource Conservation Projects
The San Andreas District trails crew has been working on several projects at Eastern Kern
County, Onyx Ranch SVRA (Onyx Ranch SVRA). These projects include:
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maintaining existing routes and trails;
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placing new trail markers;
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replacing existing fencing to protect sensitive areas; and
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installing new barriers to protect resources.
Staff work on these projects in collaboration with BLM, the Friends of Jawbone, and the
grazing lessee.
Using Boundaries and Education to Protect Resources
Butterbredt Spring Wildlife Sanctuary (Butterbredt Spring)
is one of the premiere stops when you visit Onyx Ranch
SVRA. It is a little oasis in the middle of the desert and
a very important resource for migrating birds. Filled with
willows, cottonwoods, and the only water for miles on end,
this sanctuary provides a much-needed resting place for
hundreds of thousands of birds migrating through the area.
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California State Parks, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission