EcosystemThe Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve includes about 4000 acres ranging in elevation from 700 feet to 2,044 feet and including three major geologic formations, a trout stream, numerous perennial and intermittent tributaries, springs, seeps, riparian areas, forests, woodlands, chaparral, grasslands, and rock cliffs. These diverse habitats support more than 600 plant species and 140 wildlife species, including a number that are listed or require large tracts of undisturbed habitat. The wide variety of habitats and organisms makes the BCCER an excellent site for fieldtrips and research. History Obviously the history of an area will have a profound influence on communities and ecosystem functions. Unfortunately, local history is poorly documented and most must be inferred from anthropological and geological evidence. We expect continuing research into these fields as well as historical records to add much to our current knowledge. Maps Maps are an invaluable aid to understanding an ecosystem. In addition to the maps we present here, GoogleEarth provides excellent satellite photographs of the BCCER. Researchers can also contact our field director to see various GIS overlays of reserve resources. Geology The geology of an area provides the superstructure on which ecological communities are built. In the BCCER, the importance of geology to structuring communities is very obvious making it an excellent site for ecology fieldtrips. Habitats The BCCER ecosystem is made up of many, relatively small, plant communities reflecting geological substrate, slope orientation, and site history. Flora and Fauna Diverse habitats support a great diversity of life. We present lists and descriptions of the better-known ones and encourage research to expand that knowledge. Fire Fire has been and remains a major factor in the BCCER landscape.
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