COMMISSION

collaborate with many professional organizations such as the California Native Plant
Society, Audubon Society, and California Invasive Plant Council to share their work and
ideas. Moreover, several local chapters of these organizations also volunteer at SVRAs
to help with species counts and habitat restoration projects. Since 1994, Ocotillo Wells
SVRA has been a sitting member of the Interagency Coordinating Committee (ICC), whose
responsibility is to determine state and federal policy on flat-tailed horned lizard (FTHL)
management, research protocols, and protection status. The OHMVR Division also provides
comments and peer review for ICC committee publications, monitoring program design, and
management policies.
Several academic institutions work closely with SVRAs to
provide technical assistance with monitoring programs and peer
review of data and reports. For instance, the Biological Sciences
Department at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis
Obispo (Cal Poly) works with Oceano Dunes SVRA staff to
evaluate existing HMS methods and protocols used to monitor
the park’s bird and small animal populations. In addition, Cal Poly
professors hold workshops on these topics with OHMVR Division
management and environmental scientists. Students from
California State University (CSU) San Diego, CSU Sacramento,
and CSU Monterey work with environmental scientists to
implement erosion control BMPs on trails and assist with habitat
restoration work. These programs allow students to gain practical skills and knowledge
in their field of study while Districts have access to subject matter experts, enthusiastic
interns, and new technologies.
The OHMVR Division hires consultants to review reports and data, train staff, and provide
technical assistance regarding local, state, and federal regulation compliance. The
consultants have diverse experiential backgrounds ranging from academia, the public
sector, and private companies and are experts in their field of study. Consultants have a
wide range of tasks, including:
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assess existing habitat monitoring programs and make recommendations;
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assist SVRAs to develop programs that meet their specific management needs;
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provide review of statistical models, interpretations, and conclusions described in
HMS annual reports and WHPP revisions;
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provide regulatory compliance and specialized training;
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review projects and prepare related environmental documents;
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assist the OHMVR Division in developing policy and compliance with local, state,
and environmental regulatory mandates; and
Cal Poly students
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California State Parks, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission