Conservation in Action
Exotic Species
The Foote Preserve has approximately 372 recorded pant speies, of which 50 are nonnatives. The majority of the exotics are grasses or composites, which is typical for these California habitats. Exotic plants are of concern in natural areas as they degrade, alter, or displace native plants and communities; reduce biological diversity; and negatively impact natural processes and native fauna.
These plants are of primarily Mediterranean origin, but have made their way to our part of the world where they are without their native competitors and predators. This results in a competitive advantage over California’s native species. Over time, nonnative species can completely alter the plant composition and even soil chemicals of the area they have invaded. Active management of invasive species is imperative in conserving native species.
The Foote Preserve Management Committee is working in conjunction with community volunteers to eradicate the invasive exotic plants that pose the greatest threat to native plants. These invasive plants are:
- Himalayan blackberry (Rubus discolor)
- Yellow star thistle (Centauria solstitialis)
- French broom (Genista monspessulana)
- Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus)
- Periwinkle (Vinca major)
- Harding grass (Phalaris aquatica)
- Bermuda buttercup (Oxalis pes-caprae)
- Cala lily (Zantesdeschia aethiopica)
- Blackwood acacia tree (Acacia melanoxylon)
- Smilo grass (Piptatherum miliaceum)
- Prickly pear cactus (Opuntia spp.)
- Century plant (Agave parryi)
- Laurustinus (Viburnum tinus)
Academic Research
The Foote Preserve’s native habitat and limited public access make it an ideal location for academic research. Past work includes research on Ceanothus purpureus, Streamside monkeyflower and a fisheries survey in Sarco Creek. University-level research is welcome on the preserve, especially where research will benefit our management activities. For more information, please contact our Preserve Stewardship Coordinator, Carolyn Cromer, at 707.252-3270.
Trail Maintenance
The Foote Preserve has several miles of trails. Trail maintenance is a regular ritual on the Preserve, sometimes twice a year if it’s been a good rainy season! We are always looking for individuals and/or service groups to help us out with pruning vegetation, and installing water bars and other erosion control measures. For more information, contact our Preserve Stewardship Coordinator, Carolyn Cromer, at 707.252-3270. Also, please consider our Adopt-a-Trail program.