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General Subjects => Blogs and Diaries => Topic started by: Robert on January 09, 2021, 07:52:18 PM

Title: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 09, 2021, 07:52:18 PM
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Here it is the start of 2021 and the beginning of year 3 of my Crystal Range Project.

This is a view of the canyon of the South Fork of the American River taken from Peavine Ridge on 21 December 2020. There is very little snow! And total precipitation amounts in our region are running about 30% to 35% of average to date. I am sure I will have much more to discuss on this topic in future postings, but for now the extremely dry condition continue and are forecasted to continue for at least the next 7 days.

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This is a view looking up into the higher regions of the canyon of the South Fork of the American River. 40 years ago, during most seasons, this site would have been carpeted with snow on 21 December. Slowly the more subtle impacts of climate change on plants/plant communities are being uncovered.

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The crest of the Crystal Range can be seen in the distance. Despite the dry conditions, the snow pack in the higher elevations of the range is maintaining its depth and water content. Now that the winter solstice is past, if clear skies prevail, increasing levels of short wave solar radiation will erode the existing snow pack. This is already occurring at the lower elevations where there is some snow.

Anyway, I hope to get back to the Sierra Nevada soon.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 16, 2021, 08:04:41 PM
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I was back in the Sierra Nevada Mountains the other day. It was a beautiful warm day with a high temperature of about 70 F (21.1 C). This is certainly nothing that I would expect in mid-January at the elevation of 5,100 feet (1,554 meters). Yesterday’s high temperature at the farm was 70 F (21.1 C). This was a record high temperature for 15 January.

The extremely dry weather pattern continues. It has been 10 days since there has been measurable precipitation. Our current precipitation total currently stands at 35.1% of average to date. There is no indication there will be meaningful precipitation during the next 7 days. The situation in the Sierra Nevada Mountain is about the same. There is basically no snow below 5,000 feet (1,554 meters) and much below average snow totals above this altitude.

Despite the less than ideal temperature and precipitation pattern, the weather pattern could change later this winter and into the spring. There are indications that the entrenched weather pattern may be shifting. We will see what happens. Last season there was no precipitation during the month of February. Two or three storms during the following months increased precipitation amounts appreciatively.

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Eriogonum prattenianum is a fairly common species at the site that I visited.

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With Eriogonum prattenianum var. prattenianum, there is considerable genetic variability in leaf retention during the winter among the population observed at this site. Some specimens appear dead, yet they will leaf-out vigorously in the spring. Other specimens will retain a few distally located leaves.

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This specimen of Penstemon laetus var. laeatus is sharing space with Elymus multisetus.

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Drought stress was considerable this past season. Mortality rates were high among some species, in some cases reaching 51.2% of the observed population. The population of Penstemon leatus var. laetus at this site faired much better, however there were still losses as one can see from this photograph.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 16, 2021, 08:07:19 PM
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Aspidotis densa is a very common fern found at this site. Cold temperatures have browned the tips of the foliage (it actually has not been very cold this winter).

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Many perennial and annual grasses are now in active growth. The perennial species, Poa secunda ssp. secunda is generally the first to commence active growth when the autumn rains begin.

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Elymus multisetus is a perennial bunch grass frequently encountered at this site.

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Stipa lemmonii var. lemmonii is yet another perennial bunch grass found at this site.

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Other graminoid species can be found at this site. Luzula comosa var. laxa is one of the more commonly observed species. During cold weather the tips of the leaves are frequently colored red with high concentrations of anthocyanin.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 16, 2021, 08:08:46 PM
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With the relatively warm weather and the lack of snow cover, many annual species have germinated and are in active growth. This seedling stand of Phacelia stebbinsii has found shelter at the base of this rock. High concentrations of anthocyanin can be seen in the adaxial leaf veining. Abaxially the leaves are frequently richly colored with high concentrations of anthocyanin observable over the complete leave surface. This is not unusual with many annual native species during periods of stress, such as cold weather, drought, or other environmental stresses.

Well it is time to close.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Maggi Young on January 16, 2021, 08:46:36 PM
Wow! Still so dry!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on January 17, 2021, 05:49:50 PM
It looks very dry.

We had a very dry and cold start of the year. Almost two weeks with sun, no precipitation and down to -7C/18F (much lower inland).We have not had such a cold period for many years. The last couple of days the temperature has increased and we got snow, also much more than in many years. Now it is slightly above freezing and it will stay like this for a week or so.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 18, 2021, 07:48:55 PM
Maggi – Trond

Yes, the weather is dry, however the soil is quite moist at the site that I visited last week.

Take a look at the charts posted below:

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This chart compares snow depth (in inches) last year (blue line) to this season (red line) through the end of February. There was no precipitation during the month of February last year. Currently the snow depth is less than it was at the end of February last year.

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The data for this chart was taken from the same site. The dashed blue line is the average snow liquid equivalents over the last 16 years. The red line charts amounts for last season, the green line totals for the currents season.

Last year there were, more or less, two precipitation events, one in March, and another in April, that “saved the day” precipitation wise. As I wrote, who knows what the remaining portion of this precipitation season will bring, but we do need a goodly amount of precipitation to avoid major hydrologic problem in our region this coming summer and autumn. Last season conditions in the equatorial Pacific were El Niño neutral, this season there is a strong La Niña event taking place. The atmosphere is responding quite differently this season compared to last season. This strongly influences the climatic teleconnections. No matter how things turn out, the events as they unfold will be an exceptional learning experience. There is much more to discuss in this regard into the future, including applications toward our gardens and gardening. Very fun stuff!

BTW – We have been experiencing record to near record high temperatures over the last 3 days. Average temperatures have been running 10 F to 15 F (5.6 C to 8.3 C) above average.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on January 19, 2021, 08:07:37 AM
Interesting pattern, Robert.

Now I wonder whether your dry weather and our cold weather somehow are connected to the La Niña event.

This picture from mid January 2020 is typical for the last 5 years. This January we have had the coldest period for many, many years.

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Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 21, 2021, 08:46:34 PM
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I was out on Peavine Ridge and Telephone Ridge yesterday. I will post the results of this outing in a few days.

Trond,

With time, I will continue the discussion on climatic teleconnections. Our understanding of climatic teleconnections is continuing, however there is still much to do to expand our understanding of these patterns. In addition, how shifting climatic patterns are impacting plant species and plant communities in the Crystal Range/Basin is the continuing focus of my project. I will try to tie in horticultural applications whenever possible.

BTW – I enjoyed your photographs from your garden. The plants dusted with snow can create some very attractive images. We could sure use some snow, or even just some precipitation.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 25, 2021, 08:51:01 PM
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I spent Wednesday morning, 20 January, first on Peavine Ridge, then later in the morning on Telephone Ridge. The weather was warm and dry, not a cloud in the sky. This is not the type of weather we currently need, but it was indeed a pleasant day to be out.

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I conducted my usual site survey on Peavine Ridge. As is often the case, I frequently spot something new or unusual during my survey. On this day, I spotted one specimen of Castilleja applegatei ssp. pinetorum with current season growth. At this site and elevation, this species is usually completely dormant during the winter. The new growth was dark red, saturated with anthocyanin. I strongly suspect that this new growth commenced during the autumn. This is unusual, as this site was under a great deal of stress from the extremely dry conditions during this period of time. I noted this specimen’s location and will continue to monitor this plant as the new season progresses.

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As soon as I finished on Peavine Ridge, I moved down the mountain to Telephone Ridge. The crest of Telephone Ridge sets at ~ 4,800 feet (1,463 meters), 300 feet (91 meters) below my study site on Peavine Ridge. Although there is little elevation difference between the two sites, there is a definite shift in the vegetation/plant communities that continues to accelerate quickly as one descends into the American River Canyon. A few rarely seen plant species find their home in this area.

In the distance the snow capped Pyramid Peak can be seen. As of this writing, the first in a series of cold storms have arrived, bringing much needed new snow to the Crystal Range and Peavine Ridge. A broad long-wave trough is now approaching California. This weather pattern will likely bring significant precipitation to our region. If the long range forecast is correct, an “epic” storm system is forecasted to arrive in our region sometime next week. We will see if this storm indeed continues to develop. The prospects certainly look good on the latest 300mb map.

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On the crest of Telephone Ridge, a small number of acres of chaparral burned during the previous season. It was striking to observe how quickly this plant community is regenerating itself, especially considering the dry conditions this past season.

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Chamaebatia foliolosa, Bear Clover, has quickly regenerated itself from vegetive buds located below the surface of the ground. This species is extremely resistant to fire. New fire-fighting recruits are often trained in fire suppression on sites carpeted with Bear Clover. The foliage has a very high flash point and will ignite only under the most extreme conditions. Fire with enough heat intensity and duration will eventually burn this species to the ground, however it recovers quickly after fire.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 25, 2021, 08:54:24 PM
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Many Manzanita species, Arctostaphylos, regenerate from burls after the tops have been burned to the ground by fire. This specimen of Arctostaphylos mewukka ssp. mewukka, Indian Manzanita, grew vigorously after the fire.

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This is another view of Arctostaphylos mewukka ssp. mewukka sprouting from the burl.

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Arctostaphylos patula, Green Leaf Manzanita, produces burls that generate new growth after a fire.

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In this area, Arctostaphylos patula is at the lower end of its altitude range. Other Manzanita species grow more abundantly. White-leaf Manzanita, Arctostaphylos viscida ssp. viscida, is at its upper elevation limit in this region. I did not observe any at this specific site; however they are often seen in this vicinity. Arctostaphylos viscida does not produce burls; however mature plants often produce fruit abundantly. The seeds of this species can remain dormant in the soil for many years and will germinate prolifically after a fire.

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Deer Brush, Ceanothus integerrimus var. macrothyrsus, is yet another example of a California native species that will sprout new growth from dormant below ground vegetive buds after a fire.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 25, 2021, 08:56:57 PM
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The fire occurred last season sometime during the summer, well after the soil became dry. These seedlings of Ceanothus integerrimus var. macrothyrsus most likely germinated and started growth before the fire. They likely escaped the most intense heat of the fire. Vernalization and other variables will also impact the germination of dormant seeds.

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Quercus chrysolepis, Canyon Live Oak, is very picturesque. The trunk and large branches often appear jet-black and arch majestically out over the steep slopes of canyons, their preferred habitat.

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This species too, will sprout new growth from the base of the trunk after a fire. Even a small seedling, such as this, will sprout new growth after a fire or being damaged in some other fashion.

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I will end this posting with a chart of the snow depth near the crest of the Crystal Range, 8,600 feet (2,621 meters). The blue line is the snow depth, in inches, through February of last year. The red line is the current season’s snow depth. My hope is to see the snow depth increase significantly during the next few weeks. A snow depth in excess of 144 inches will help ameliorate the critical hydrological issues our portion of California faces, at least for this season.

Until the next time…
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on January 31, 2021, 08:32:47 PM
We have had quite the shift in our weather. The persistent weather pattern in the northern Pacific Ocean that brought us extremely dry weather and above average temperatures (for the most part) finally changed. We experienced one night of sub-freezing temperatures (nighttime low temperatures below 32 F (0 C) are becoming less common in our area!), and then a shift to stormy conditions with very low snow levels. The first major storm was accompanied by 53 mph winds, with 57 mph gusts, followed a few days later by an atmospheric river which resulted in high rainfall totals for the foothills and abundant snowfall in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

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This chart plots the snow depth this season to date (red line) vs. last year (blue line) through the end of February. The elevation of this site is 6,700 feet (2,042 meters). The snow depth looks impressive; however, there are other methods to interpret the data that give a completely different perspective.

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This chart plots the same snow amounts as liquid equivalents. The green line is this year’s total to date; the red line last year’s totals, and the dashed blue line the 15-year average. Although the storms brought a great deal of precipitation, we are still woefully below average.

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Here is another look at snow depth in my study area. This site is located at an elevation of 8,600 feet (2,621 meters).

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Low elevation snow was more common in the past. This site is situated at an elevation of 3,625 feet (1,005 meters). There is currently a fair amount of snow on the ground at this site. Last year at this site, there was no snow for entire month of February.

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This chart compares precipitation to date (red line) versus the 38-year average (blue line) at the Placerville farm. This chart gives the most accurate depiction of our current-season hydrological situation.

 Anomalous weather patterns, such as these, create excellent opportunities to study their impacts on plants and plant communities. I hope to be out again soon when the weather clears.

Until next time…
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on February 03, 2021, 09:11:26 AM
Robert,

Interesting to see how plants regenerate after fire or other kind of damage in your area. This shows fire has been an important ecological factor there for a long time.

Glad to see you got some precipitation. Hope you get more :)

We still have very dry and cold weather and it seems it will last at least a couple more weeks. We had two days with temperatures close to 0C and got 10 cm of snow. I wished for more as the snow cover protects the plants against the low temperatures. We have down to -10C during the nights.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on February 13, 2021, 08:11:26 PM
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I will be starting another habitat restoration project in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The primary objective will be to restore the oak savannah – native bunch grass/native annual and perennial forb ecosystem on a 5.5 acre plot. My brother and I will be setting up a automated field weather station that can be monitored remotely. With this project I will have an opportunity to visit many familiar sites in our foothill region. I will have more information as the process evolves.

Until next time…
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on February 20, 2021, 08:54:00 PM
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An overcast day in a low elevation Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii) Savannah ecosystem in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

This ecosystem has been highly altered by the activities of humans, first during the California Gold Rush, then by livestock grazing. At one time, California native bunch grasses, combined with native bulbs, perennials, and annuals, flourished in this region. Now, for the most part, there are only a few remnant populations of our native perennial bunch grasses. Invasive annual grasses now dominate this type of ecosystem throughout California. Reestablishing stable populations of native bunch grasses while dramatically reducing invasive annual grass species is an enormous challenge, and has important ramifications regarding wildfire suppression.

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Ranunculus occidentalis var. occidentalis is a very common perennial in our Foothill Oak Savannah ecosystems.

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Claytinia perfoliata ssp. perfoliata is a frequently seen annual. It is now a popular salad green cultivated by a few farms throughout the U.S.A.

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Primula hendersonii is a shade-loving perennial. Most forms in our region are sterile and are most often propagated by offsets of their rice-grain swollen roots which rodents tend to move from place-to-place.

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Chaparral Honeysuckle, Lonicera interrrupta, can be found vining through shrubs and trees, or sprawling over the surface of the ground.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on February 20, 2021, 08:56:05 PM
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Coyote Brush, Baccharis pilularis ssp. consanguinea, is frequently a pioneer species. During drought years, seed from this species will germinate prolifically on the barren soil ringing our depleted reservoirs.

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White-leaf Manzanita, Arctostaphylos viscida ssp. viscida, is the dominant low elevation Manzanita species in our Sierra Foothill region. This species is an obligate seeder, in other words, it will not renew or propagate itself vegetatively from burls. Fire greatly enhances the germination of its seed: After a fire, the seed frequently germinates prolifically.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on February 21, 2021, 07:28:22 AM
Nice to see fresh growth again! You have showed so many "dry" photographs.

I know the Claytonia is a popular salad herb here. Many people grow it in their gardens. I have not tried it. I have Claytonia sibirica though as a weed!

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Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 04, 2021, 10:31:39 PM
Trond

You sure have some beautiful and interesting plants in your region.  8)

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Sunrise on Peavine Ridge with Pyramid Peak in the distance, 3 March 2021. I will have more to report on this outing over the coming days.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 07, 2021, 07:05:45 PM
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Wednesday, 3 March 2021. It was a crisp morning, temperature 30 F (-1.1 C). The breeze made it feel much colder than it actually was.

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For much of the last month this portion of Peavine Ridge was carpeted with a blanket of snow. The higher elevations still have a considerable amount of snow, 89.07% of average in liquid equivalents. Overall, our regional hydrologic situation still looks grim. At our farm/nature preserve, precipitation to date is 52.31% of the 40-year average.

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Now that the snow has melted away from much of the south facing slopes, the small seedlings that germinated during the relatively warm weather during December and January have to contend with frost heaving. This is not an unusual condition at this site, however frost heaving followed by warm dry weather seriously damages vulnerable seedlings.

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The small seedlings have a number of bio-chemical processes that allow them to adjust to extremes in temperature, potentially dry conditions, and exposure to solar radiation during periods of cold temperature when metabolic activity is low. High concentrations of anthocyanins are often seen in both the upper and lower epidermal cells of young seedlings in the early spring. This is a protective measure taken by many high elevation plant species to contend with a variety of environmental stresses.

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These well-established and anchored specimens of Calyptridium monospermum have to contend with the impacts of frost heaving. The epidermal cells of the exposed caudex have filled with anthocyanins to protect the tissues from solar radiation, most likely long wave UV-A.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 07, 2021, 07:08:55 PM
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A variety of plants are enjoying the protection of this rock. The rock provides some additional warmth as well as moisture that collects under and around the perimeter of the rock.

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Except for the frosted tips of the foliage, this specimen of Aspidotis densa was green in January before the snow fell in early February. Later this spring it will break dormancy with new growth.

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The new growth of Chlorogalum pomeridianum had begun to emerge in late January. The snow cover brought this new growth to a halt; however with sunny weather and no snow cover they will resume active growth again.

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During the early spring, with cold weather, the lower epidermal leaf cells of Phacelia stebbinsii contain high concentrations of anthocyanins. The anthocyanins have the capacity to absorb excesses of PAR (Photosytheticly Active Radiation) that is not used by the spongy mesophyll cells. In addition, vascular tissues in both the leaves and stems frequently contain high concentrations of anthocyanins.

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A variety of specialized annual and perennial plant species grow in and around the perimeter of the seasonal vernal seeps in this area. The vernal seeps have many of the same characteristics of the vernal pool ecosystems in the Central Valley of California. Some species contend with seasonal flooding with anaerobic soil conditions followed by parched dry conditions later in the season. A few rare species are found at these sites.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 07, 2021, 07:12:09 PM
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This seedling of Lessingia leptoclada will make rapid growth once the weather warms. This xeric annual species blooms late summer into the autumn.

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Eriogonum prattenianum var. prattenianum will be breaking dormancy soon. The new growth is wooly and silvery-gray in color.

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The burls of Arctostaphylos patula are frequently well exposed above the surface of the soil. As long as a fire is not too intense, new growth will sprout from the burls.

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This is a beautiful scene of the canyon of the South Fork of the American River. The Central Valley of California is off in the distance to the west.

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As the morning progressed the clouds began to thicken. A few days later much needed precipitation fell.

To be continued…
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on March 11, 2021, 04:16:47 PM
Hope you got some long awaited precipitation! We had a rainstorm got 37mm/1.5in yesterday.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 12, 2021, 09:29:58 PM
Hello Trond,

Yes, we did get some much-needed precipitation this past week, 1.10 inch (27.94 mm) at the farm. As the following charts will show, we are still well below our seasonal averages to date. To date, precipitation at the farm is 54.52% of the 40-year average. In the Sierra Nevada Mountains conditions are better. For example, the snow liquid equivalent at one site is 92.21% of the 15-average. Our regional precipitation has diminished by 5% over the last 20 years, so 80% to 85% of average is a more realistic figure over the last 40 to 50 years.

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Precipitation at our farm:
Blue line – 40-year average
Red line - last year’s total
Green line - this year’s total to date

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Snow liquid equivalents:
Blue line – 15-year average
Red line – last year’s total
Green Line – this year’s total

It is clear to see that the total liquid in the snow cover is much higher than it was last year at this time. This is especially true at the mid-elevation regions (this chart is not shown).

There have been some major shifts in the synoptic weather pattern over the past week or two. The atmosphere may be responding to the diminishing La Niña event that has prevailed since autumn. We watch the weather closely and are hoping for the best.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 12, 2021, 09:35:07 PM
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In late January when I last visited Peavine Ridge, Catilleja applegatei ssp. pinetorum was, for the most part, dormant, showing no emerging new vegetative growth. It is interesting how biochemical signals, triggered by environmental stimuli, prompt plants to respond to changing conditions in their environment.

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The first Manzanita flowers of the spring season were starting to open. This specimen of Arctostaphylos patula had a few open flowers.

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Arctostaphylos patula is generally not the first Manzanita species to commence blooming in the spring. During previous seasons, I have observed Arctostaphylos mewukka ssp. mewukka blooming as early as mid-December at a nearby location.

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On this day, all the specimens of Arctostaphylos mewukka ssp. mewukka that I observed had closed flower buds.

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Arctostaphylos viscida ssp. viscida is generally the last species to bloom on Peavine Ridge. Mazanita flowers and fruit are an important food source for many life forms in this area. During the early spring, hummingbirds and a host of insects feed on the nectar provided by the open flowers. During the autumn bears, deer, birds, and other animals eat the ripe fruit. Manzanita is an essential component of a healthy ecosystem in this area.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 12, 2021, 09:38:05 PM
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The foliage of Arctostaphylos mewukka ssp. mewukka ranges in color from mat gray-green to an intense silver-green.

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The new growth of Primula hendersonii is now beginning to emerge from the ground.

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Since my visit in January, the growth of Luzula var. laxa has not advanced much.

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Young and newly germinating seedlings have to contend with frost heaving. Depending on the timing and circumstances, many seedlings become vulnerable to extremes in heat, cold, dryness, or other forms of physical damage.

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These seedlings have, for the most part, been pushed out of the ground. A small ball of soil remains around the roots; however on examination, the bulk of the root system had been severed from the top portion of the seedlings. With continued moist weather the seedling may extend new roots into the ground. With dry weather the seedlings will quickly desiccate and die.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 12, 2021, 09:41:21 PM
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Young germinating seedlings are severely challenged by repeated exposure to ice crystals and the associated heaving of the soil. In many mountain habitats, the duration and consistency of the winter snow pack plays a key role in the vernalization, germination, and survival of mature plants, seeds and seedlings. Epigenetic response in gene expression is one of a number of physiological systems plants use to adapt to shifting environmental patterns.

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There was still some remaining snow cover on Peavine Ridge. In many circumstances, a consistent and lingering snow cover protects plants from extremes in the weather and delays the germination of seedlings until consistently favorable weather prevails.

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Adversely cold weather and snow cover generally does not affect the new growth of Agoseris grandiflora var. grandiflora after it emerges from the ground in the early spring.

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These Clarkia seedlings were well protected from the cold temperatures and frost heaving.

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As I continued my survey, I found additional plants of Arctostaphylos patula coming into bloom.

To be continued…
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on March 13, 2021, 07:26:44 AM
Robert,

Ice crystal formation and upheaving of the soil is a problem here also. But it differ from year to year how serious it is and it is worse on bare soil than in dense vegetation of course.

I like the different Arctostaphylos shrubs! I am sorry we only have one native species! No flowers yet but it should flower in a couple month or so.

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Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Gabriela on March 14, 2021, 01:48:40 PM
I would also like to have more Arctostaphylos species Trond (there are few more but on the western side of Canada only).
So I always admire the ones showed by Robert here.

Upheaving is a terrible problem here and is more pronounced on wetter areas; this year I was surprised to see that one of the most affected areas was in a place that had been covered with a thick snow layer.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on March 15, 2021, 02:21:53 AM
Yes, many of the Arctostaphylos species are very beautiful. Many have polished chestnut colored bark, some striking gray or wooly foliage. The flowers are pretty and attract all sorts of (native) insects, hummingbirds too. The ripe berries attract a wide variety of creatures. Even in our summer hot dry climate most well established specimens do not require summer irrigation to look great. Needless to say, we have many of the local species in our garden.

Gabriela,

In the “Northern Hemisphere” thread you made reference to two Caucasian Aristolochia species that you cultivate. Do they have any noteworthy characteristics? I am only familiar with our California native species.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Gabriela on March 18, 2021, 12:06:18 AM
Gabriela,

In the “Northern Hemisphere” thread you made reference to two Caucasian Aristolochia species that you cultivate. Do they have any noteworthy characteristics? I am only familiar with our California native species.

Both A. steupii and A. iberica (the ones I grew from seeds) are woodland floor inhabitants Robert,  25-30 cm or so. In this regard they are different from the climbing types.
The flowers are much smaller but equally intriguing and there must be insects around that like them because they set seeds. They emerge and flower very early (by our standards).
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on May 28, 2021, 08:20:07 PM
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Erythronium oregonum as photographed back in March.

Like the Sugarplum Fairy in the animated movie Strange Magic, I have finally been set free from my captivity – so, I have been very busy over the last few months with many projects.

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Fast-forward to 28 May – Calochortus superbus blooming in our garden.

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Papaver rhoeas blooming with our California native – Philadelphus lewsii.

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I still visit the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This pond is drying quickly (as photographed 27 May 2021). The current drought is severe. The regional hydrology never fully recovered from the previous period of severe drought and the impacts are very apparent. I will post more information concerning the local impacts of drought and climate change on both managed (our garden) and unmanaged (wild) ecosystems in future postings.

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One of our many California native annuals, Fivespot, Nemophila maculata blooming in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: fermi de Sousa on May 29, 2021, 02:13:48 AM
Glad that you've been set free, Robert.
In Victoria we are in a 7 day lockdown after an outbreak of the virus.
Very disruptive to business of course but I'm glad that the Govt is taking the health risk seriously.
I saw a cute post on Instagram where someone suggested that instead of saying "the Economy" substitute "Rich people's yacht money" makes a lot of sense! ;D
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on May 29, 2021, 06:31:00 PM
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Hi Fermi

I have been spending the last few months expanding our bio-intensive mini farm. A good portion of our backyard in Sacramento was a “wilderness” of weeds. Now it has been cleaned up and planted. Our farm, up the hill in El Dorado County, has been fallow for 10 years. It is now coming back into production. The orchard is being renewed and the fallowed land is being planted with carbon, calorie and vegetable crops.

Considering that the Union of Concerned Scientists estimate that there is 40 years of topsoil remaining on the planet based on the current rates of soil erosion, establishing a secure and sustainable food system seems a priority. The folks at Ecology Action estimate there is, more or less, only 22.5 years of topsoil remaining on the planet. The bottom line is that, currently, most soils are critically depleted and highly dependent on anthropogenic fixed nitrogen, and dwindling supplies of phosphorus to maintain high levels of agricultural production.

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For us, potatoes (pictured) are an important calorie crop. We also grow sweet potatoes and sunchokes as calorie crops. Grains such as barley, rye, pearl millet, and rice are examples of carbon crops.

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We leave room for ornamental plants. Brodiaea elegans ssp. elegans is in full bloom in our Sacramento, California garden.

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In this scene Gilia capitata is blooming with Verbena bonariensis. The Gilia capitata plants are hybrids between ssp. mediomontana and pedemontana. They volunteer in our garden with many other California native annuals.

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Climate change is another reason behind our move back toward sustainable bio-intensive mini farming. One can easily see from the chart above that our local precipitation totals have declined 24% (!!!!!!!) in the time period 1870 to 2010. In addition, in our region, temperatures have increased 1.26 F (0.7 C) since 1987-88. During the 2014-15 season temperatures averaged 3.54 F (1.97 C) above average, well above the temperature threshold where uncontrollable, irreversible, and rapid climate change is likely to occur. Currently, these climatic changes are impacting our garden/mini farm as well as our regional natural habitats/ ecosystems.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: ian mcdonald on May 29, 2021, 09:50:45 PM
Thanks for the update Robert. Here the weather has been mostly cold and wet. I put this down to our prevailing wind coming from the West and there is a lot of water to our West. Not science, just my own theory. There was talk some years ago that the South of England would have a climate like the Sahara. Perhaps this did not take into account the water bearing clouds? Spring has been late this year with some trees slow to come into leaf and flowering wild plants later than usual. Your Brodiaea looks similar to Gentian? I wish we could reverse the jet stream and send you some rain.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on May 30, 2021, 06:13:27 PM
Hello Ian,

Thank you for the weather/climatic report from your region. As of today, 30 May, our precipitation total for the season is 47.35% of average. This year is turning out to be the driest season since the 1976-77 precipitation year (one of the driest years in the last 150 years). This May temperatures are running 3.03 F (1.68 C) above average. This summer the forecast is for a continuation of above average temperatures.

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Brodiaea elegans ssp. elegans is a member of the Themidaceae family and is a common California native species in our area. Their flowers are indeed reminiscent of Gentiana flowers. Pictured is Brodiaea minor. This species is almost always found growing on serpentine rock formations. As pictured, it is growing well in our Sacramento garden.

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This is the last of the Pacific Coast lilies blooming in our Sacramento, California garden. We enjoy our California native lilies and grow many species and hybrids in our garden.

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These are a few more photographs from my recent outings.

Calochortus minimus blooming at an elevation of 6,600 feet (2,012 meters). Both open flowers are from the same plant. The change in the flower color is not unusual for this species.

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This Trillium angustipetalum was found growing in a shaded portion of a drying meadow. The water table in this area was once very near the surface, keeping the meadow moist throughout the summer-autumn season. As chronic drought conditions persist, the water table is dropping and the meadow ecosystem is changing. The mix of plant species is shifting as the meadow becomes increasingly dry. The seasonal creek that flows through this meadow does not have a deeply incised channel, so other variables are at play in the drying of this meadow.

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Castilleja pruinosa is found growing on the dry sunny slopes above the meadow.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on May 31, 2021, 06:11:17 PM
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The following photographs were taken on the lower portions of Peavine Ridge on 5 May 2021. In early May the soil was already quite dry and the growth of many annual species was restrained and underdeveloped.

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The growth of many perennial species was also restrained. I have been visiting this patch of Silene laciniata ssp. californica for years. The plants were small with very few flowers.

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Diplacus kelloggii is a very showy annual species. Generally this species creates striking drifts of colorful flowers when in bloom each spring. This season, there were very few plants and the existing plants were stunted, with very few flowers.

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Lessingia leptoclada is a very tough, heat and drought tolerant annual species. How they will be impacted by the extremely dry conditions this season will become apparent later in the season.

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The perennial species, Lathyrus sulphureus is generally found growing in semi-shaded locations. The species is summer dormant and well adapted to dry summer conditions.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on June 01, 2021, 08:12:01 AM
Glad to hear that you are able to to something at the farm! How long is the drive from your home to the farm?

The spring here is also later than usual, by several weeks in fact. A cold winter was followed by a cool spring but we didn't lack precipitation! The last days the weather has improved considerably though with temperatures above 20C (68F).

Yesterday I was visiting some islands and skerries west of here. We had a very nice day!

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The grass is very short cut. It is flocks of wild geese grazing here in spring.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 02, 2021, 07:09:47 PM
Hello Trond,

It takes 45 minutes to drive from our Sacramento home to our El Dorado County farm. Most of the travel time is through an urban setting, so if there is traffic it can take much longer to get to the farm. Needless to say, we travel during off-peak (traffic) times.

Thank you for the weather/climatic report. I always find the information fascinating. In our region, the average temperature during the month of May was 3.47 F (1.928 C) above the 30-year average. Since 1 January every month has had above average temperatures except March, which was very La Niña-like in its weather pattern. Despite a strong La Niña, January and February did not exactly behave like a typical La Niña.

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This photograph was taken on the Lyons Creek trail on 5 May.

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This is how the trail appeared on 27 May. The snow did not last long with the above average temperatures. A few days ago it was 101 F (38.33 C) at our Sacramento home. This is temperature is much above average for this time of year, but not completely unusual.

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Lyons Creek Trail, 5 May – Horkelia fusca var. pariflora generally greens quickly after the snow melts for the season.

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Lyons Creek Trail, 5 May - Delphinium nuttallianum emerging from the ground.

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Lyons Creek Trail, 27 May – Viola bakeri is one of the first high elevation Viola species to bloom after the snow melts each spring.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on June 07, 2021, 07:14:21 PM
I missed these last posts-- good that you got some winter moisture at least... hope this season hasn't been too extreme...
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 07, 2021, 08:07:35 PM
The first 6 days of June have been running ~ 10 F (5.56 C) above average, however the weather is forecasted to change and much below average temperatures are expected. There is even the possibility of rain at the end of the forecast period (7 days).

Today I have photographs from our Sacramento, California garden.

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Castilleja affinis ssp. affinis has been a very persistent perennial species in our garden. We have grown a number of different species. To date, this has been the best preforming and persistent Castilleja species in our garden. The plants flower for many months during the spring and summer.

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Salvia guaranitica ‘Black and Blue’ is generally frosted down to the ground each season and emerges again in the spring. This year a few branches survived, what little cold weather we had this winter, and are blooming now. The new growth that emerges in the spring, blooms later in the summer into the autumn months

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Diplacus aurantiacus is a California native species. This perennial species seeds itself around in our garden and blooms for many months each spring-early summer.

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Plant breeding is fun!

This is a F1 Erythranthe lewisii x cardinalis hybrid.

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This is the same F1 hybrid except reverse, E. cardinalis x lewisii.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 07, 2021, 08:10:43 PM
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We are breeding new tomato varieties that are well adapted to our garden microclimate and growing techniques.

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The following are some of the early results from our Viola breeding project. During another posting I will show the yellows. Breeding for heat tolerance is one important goal.

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Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 07, 2021, 08:15:13 PM
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Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Angel Lace’ is looking good right now.

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The annual Consolida ajacis seeds around in our garden. We save seed from the pink, pale lavender, and white plants. The blues take care of themselves.

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Cosmos bipinnatus. The summer annuals are just starting to bloom.

For the most part, the California native annuals have finished blooming however there are a few late bloomers. Lessingia leptoclada is an example and it will be starting soon.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 07, 2021, 08:26:08 PM
I missed these last posts-- good that you got some winter moisture at least... hope this season hasn't been too extreme...

Cohan

We are experiencing all sorts of climatic/weather extremes!

Currently there is severe drought. In addition, temperatures fluctuations have been extreme at times - record heat then record cold - but much more record heat than cold (close to 10:1).
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on June 07, 2021, 10:27:31 PM
Lots of colour, still at least! hope you get that possible rain later in the week.
Up and down here, as usual- seems we rarely hit average but rather achieve it by adding the aboves and belows. Nothing really traumatic, though. Spring is usually very dry here between snowmelt and the onset of early summer rain, which tends to mean more dry time as spring melt generally comes earlier. This year, though, saw rather early melt, but then more moisture than usual (snows in April, surprisingly none in May, at least none that stuck around, but more rain in early May than usual)- with only a week or two dryish and a short 'hot' spell- we had 3-4 days last week 26-30c /78-86F today's high is 9C/48F not there yet at 3:00. Rainfall warning to the west of us, we are having off and on rain since yesterday evening, but wont be anywhere near the 80-100mm forecast closer to the foothills, unless something dramatic happens tonight...lol
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 09, 2021, 06:23:22 PM
Cohan,

Thank you for the weather/climatic report from your region. I enjoy the reports from Europe as well as your reports from Canada. It is all very interesting.

Our forecast for rain was very short lived. The forecasters gave up on the prospects of rain almost as quickly as they came up with the idea. Now the consensus is that the Four Corners High will build westward and we will have a return to 100 F (37.8 C) plus temperatures in our area. From my perspective, this seems to be a much more realistic forecast.

Currently, temperatures are a bit chilly. Yesterday, the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada Mountains were running 11.5 F (6.4 C) below average, with frost during the morning hours in the high elevation valleys. Here in the Sacramento Valley and Sierra Nevada Foothills temperatures are less extreme, 6.5 F (3.6 C) below average. Factoring in the current below average temperatures, temperatures are still well above average for the month of June and it appears that this trend will continue.

My data strongly suggests that climate change is accelerating in our region and the impacts are become much more pronounced both in managed and unmanaged ecosystems. As a gardener/farmer (actually these days a bio-intensive mini-farmer) there is an urgent need to adjust to the changing climatic conditions. Plant breeding and soil management are just two important factors that are being focused on to adjust and hopefully thrive under the changing climatic conditions. As far as I am concerned, the media reports of business and government enacting policies to remedy the adverse consequences of climate change and moving toward a carbon neutral economy are pure nonsense. Business as usual--as most understand it--would have to end and be replaced by something completely different for meaningful change to take place.  Such radical change would be so extremely devastating, it would create human suffering on a scale no one is prepared to undertake.  I prefer action on a personal level to the best of my abilities rather than putting faith in baseless propaganda and the media’s dog and pony show.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on June 09, 2021, 07:29:57 PM
Yes, hard to imagine public change on a meaninful level :( We can only hope the many useful approaches already out there on a personal and (mostly smaller) business scale can spread enough to be helpful.
Climate change in my immediate area has been less dramatic, but there are impacts-  springs have been tending to be earlier, which means drier- effects on native ecosystems, not so relevant for agriculture which is not very active at that point yet. However, the summer rains seem to be at times arriving earlier, we'll see if that is a trend or not-- good for me at the garden level, but too soon rain means some farmers may have difficulty getting seeding done before fields become too wet.
Fall as well is at times warmer longer, but also wetter, which has serious consequences on harvest, which was always a game of chance here.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 12, 2021, 07:22:26 PM
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My wife and I continue to make progress improving and expanding our Sacramento, California garden. A few days ago, a bench with potted ornamental plants occupied this bare spot of exposed earth. The plants were planted (or will be), others composted. Next, this new open space will be double dug, compost added and planted to vegetable crops. Our little mini-farm is starting to become productive – greens, summer squash, green beans, cucumbers, and potatoes are currently being harvested on a daily basis.

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A few of the borders are filled with blooming flowers. We enjoy a garden filled with flowers, fruits and vegetables.

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We also have plans to expand out dryland garden. The bagged seed capsules are those of Calochortus luteus. Many species of Calochortus thrive in our garden. We will be planting more in the future.

In the foreground, right, is a nice form of Arctostaphylos viscida ssp. viscida.

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Our California native, Eriogonum grande var. rubescens, thrives in our garden. Despite our summers with no rainfall and regular 38 C plus high temperatures, this species thrives with light irrigation only three or four times during the summer-autumn months.

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I like breeding simple single flowered Dahlias. The single flowers are magnets for beneficial insects and butterflies. The plants bloom all summer and well into the autumn.

We have enjoyed 4 to 5 days of cool, below average temperatures. During the summer we call this “Resort Weather”. This is about to end. The Four Corners High is forecasted to move westward. For us, this translates into 100 F plus (37.8 C) daytime high temperatures. To date, June is still running ~ 3 F (1.7 C) above the 30 year average. For the calendar year, 2021, temperatures are running 1.39 F (0.774 C) above the 30-year average and 0.83 F (0.46 C) above the 15-year average in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Currently SSTs in the Equatorial Tropical Pacific are ENSO neutral. Presently, there is a 50-50 chance that La Niña conditions may develop again this winter. La Niña generally translates into dry winter conditions in our part of California. Another dry winter would bring harsh consequences to our region. We will be monitoring these developments closely.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 16, 2021, 08:00:39 PM
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Last year I planted a bulb of Lilium sargentiae near the dirt path leading to our back garden. Now it is in full bloom and greets us with its delightful fragrance as we head out to the garden each morning. I like dirt paths and the feel of the earth on my feet.

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I gathered seed of our California native, Oenothera elata ssp. hirsutissima, near the Carson River (east side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains) a number of years ago. The flowers open in the evening and stay open all night, into the early morning hours. The flowers are very large and showy, but have no fragrance, at least that I can detect.

We also grow Oenothera biennis, Common Evening Primrose. This species is somewhat weedy in our garden, however I always let some plants grow and seed out in our garden. I prefer this species, as the flowers are fragrant. In addition, all parts of this species are edible, roots, leaves, and seeds. This species also has medicinal properties.

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The garden is quickly developing into a multi-dimensional permaculture, a symbiosis of edible and ornamental plants from ground level upward through the tree canopy. Our Pink Lady Apple is loaded with fruit and shares space with Oenothera elata and a host of edible herbs, vegetables, and ornamental plant species.

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Our Flavor King Pluots are just starting to turn color. They will not be ripe for another month or so. The pluot shares space with Lebanese Light Green Squash. These are being selected for seed saving. We grow our vegetables seed to seed, i.e. we do not buy vegetable seed each season but produce our own, completing the cycle. Not seen near the pluot is a nice crop of watermelons and Golden Beauty Casaba Melons (a long time favorite and stores well off the vine when ripe).

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Miniature White Cucumbers are the first to ripen.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 16, 2021, 08:02:08 PM
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Potatoes are an important calorie crop. They are ready to harvest now and keep us well fed. This reduces our need to purchase food at the grocery. When we add the garden area from Placerville where the farm was, there will be little need to grocery shop except for vegetable oil, fish, and things that are impractical to produce ourselves.

I am not sure when I will be back out in the field again. The garden at the former farm requires a lot of work to get it going again. Hopefully I will have some photographs from there soon (I have been too tired after working all day!). The orchard is coming back into health and I have a few vegetables growing.  There is also our local low elevation flora to visit when I have a bit of spare time.  However, there is not much of that these days, but I love gardening and my life so much right now, so it all feels good to me.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Maggi Young on June 16, 2021, 09:05:29 PM
It is a joy to hear how things are  coming along in your garden, Robert - and even more  so to learn that you are  so content!  Be well!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 19, 2021, 02:59:06 AM
Thank You Maggi  :)

Yes, Jasmin and I are doing well. Our garden is an oasis paradise, a balm to the heart and soul. We are so fortunate to have this plot of earth to tend and create our version of paradise. I wish the same blessings for all and hope our garden can be an inspiration for others. Simplicity and working with what is close at hand help make gardening a pleasure for us.

In the meantime, we are enduring a heat wave. Yesterday and today (18 June) daily high temperature records were broken. Today, it was 105 F (40.6 C) at our Sacramento home today and 108 F (42.2 C) at the El Dorado County farm. The day before was similar.

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So far, our garden is holding up well with the hot weather. Myoga, Japanese Ginger, Zingiber mioga, (container right) is content in the heat. Surprisingly, Adiantum aleuticum (container left) has always done well despite our hot summers.

The pool of water was for our native tree frogs. They have not taken hold in our garden, yet, but we are still hopeful.

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Virus in Cucurbita maximum. It has been 10 years since I have been able to grow out many of my vegetable varieties. The other Cucurbita maximum plants are highly resistant to virus. This is good to know! Today, in the cool of the morning, I planted Cranberry Beans and Flint Corn.

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Gladiolus dalenii is starting to bloom now. We will find the perfect site for this species in our garden.

Jasmin and I have plans to make a small expansion of our rock garden. There is plenty for us to do. It will all come about in the right time.

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I grow potatoes from seed (also from tubers, of course). These will be unique new varieties and well adapted to our garden growing conditions. Fresh plants grown from true breeding seed lines will be virus free.

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Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Izu No Hana’ thrives in our garden.

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 19, 2021, 03:01:03 AM
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Rhodophiala montana also does well in our garden. I would like to grow more from seed, however one plant is a genetic bottleneck. More genetic variability would be desirable. I have plenty to keep be busy, so this is not a big deal.

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Lilium henryi x ‘Louise’ is tough as nails! It blooms well for us each season, is un-phased by the heat, and is highly resistant to virus.

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: fermi de Sousa on June 20, 2021, 01:11:08 PM

Hi Robert.
in the dim dark past I remember reading an article on the dangers of solanine, the poison in all solanaceous plants. It said that the problem with growing potatoes from seed is the risk of excessive solanine levels. It said that the USDA once bred a potato that was excellent in all ways but when they tested it they found that it "had enough solanine to kill a horse"! Admittedly I can no longer remember who wrote the article (it was probably in Rodale's Organic Gardening and Farming) and it's hard to say if any "fact checking" existed back then (1970s?). Perhaps it was someone who had a vested interest in the production of "seed potatoes"!
cheers
fermi
I grow potatoes from seed (also from tubers, of course). These will be unique new varieties and well adapted to our garden growing conditions. Fresh plants grown from true breeding seed lines will be virus free.

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 23, 2021, 02:31:49 AM
Hi Fermi

I did a bit of research on the topic of potato toxicity. Glycoalkaloids are the source of toxicity in potatoes and other Solanaceae species that are commonly eaten. Most of the concern seems to be with potato cultivars. Yes, it turns out that the synthesis of glycoalkaloids is genetically controlled, some cultivars having higher concentrations of glycoalkaloids than other cultivars. In addition, environmental conditions play a role in the synthesis and concentration of glycoalkaloids in potato tubers, skins, and peels. Heat, light, cutting, injury, slicing, sprouting, and phytopathogens can all influence glycoalkaloid concentrations. α-solanine and α-chaconine are the most commonly found glycoalkaloids, however there are other compounds and isomers.

Fortunately, toxic concentrations of glycoalkaloids are bitter in taste. Higher concentrations produce a burning sensation on the sides of the tongue. I have been growing potatoes from true seed, off and on, for 50 years. I guess I have been lucky, I have never bred a bitter potato, but then I have always tried to create or grow seed lines that bred true to type, rather than something completely new.

We never eat “green’ potatoes no matter where they come from!

Thank you so much for the tip.  8)  I enjoy learning new things. This was new to me.  :)

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Nectarines ripening on the El Dorado County property.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 23, 2021, 02:37:56 AM
Since a number of Forumists have been curious about what we are doing, this is a joint submission with my wife.

Jasmin:  Greetings!/Grüße!/Saludos!

     After many years of caregiving, there was neglect everywhere in our garden, and on what Robert calls the farm, the property that was owned by Robert’s parents.  Although at one time Robert and I did farm there, it has been fallow and neglected during the many years of caregiving.  We do not plan to farm at the location; however, Robert still calls the property “the farm”.  Please do not be misled by Robert’s terminology.  The garden there will never be so grandiose as the word ‘farm’ might suggest.

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A scene of the orchard at the “farm”.

Estate issues are largely resolved; yet, the extensive neglect and requisite clean-up is quite time-consuming. At our Sacramento home, clean up and restructuring the garden is further along. Robert has already posted photos of various ornamentals, natives, rock garden arrangements, and vegetable plantings.

I painted our growing benches, and, after Robert sands the garden shed, I will prime and paint that too.

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Bench for liners

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Another bench for liners

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The nursery shed still needs painting.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 23, 2021, 02:42:06 AM
     Needless to say, there has been very little time.  My days begin at 4 am, although I can begin earlier.  My work day begins at what we call “wife o’clock”:  My schedule is decided by the weather, our birds, and my regular, mundane--yet essential--tasks of laundry and meal preparation.
     A number of Forumists noted changes in Robert’s diary, and our garden. I hope to clarify this change in direction. Initially, Robert debated continuing his Forum diary, given the nature of the changes; however, I encouraged him to proceed, because no one else discusses the issues we face here in our climate, which simultaneously impact our garden in Sacramento, the property in Placerville, and our wilderness areas in the Sierra Nevada that many of you know through Robert’s submissions.
     I believe the Forum diary is critical. Globally, we gardeners face unprecedented times. Here we are in midst of major ecological disaster:
     Immediately, many think of global climate change, and certainly this is a major component.  Yet, it must also be said that human destruction of the environment races headlong as I write.  No matter the politics or political party, wilderness is being decimated by the extreme drought, extreme heat, and the continuance of development. Whole swaths of native oak savannah were obliterated to create developments of so-called houses, places big enough to be hotels in areas where there is no water, and never was, even in the distant past, when water conditions were more ample. There is no justification we see for any of this. The claim it is due to a lack of affordable housing is politics. No one will ever afford these monstrosities, never mind the total lack of water! 
     At the same time, we witness the devastation of the wilderness in the Sierra Nevada. Areas you have seen in photos from Robert’s outings are hard-hit by chronic drought and heat, by encroaching development, by progressive deforestation, and wildfire.
     To give you an idea of the extent of the drought, many of our reservoirs--ones that take years to fill to capacity (e.g. Colorado River drainage) --are nothing more than glorified mud wallows. Tragically, few realize the severity, even when they clearly see the impact. Recently, people complained that they could not be on their houseboat because the reservoir was so low! Robert and I were astounded they cared more about being on their houseboat than the fact there has not been the rain to provide the water!
     Then, there is the heat issue:

These are excerpts from a recent email sent to Robert’s brother.

The temperatures for Greenstone:

June 17 - 105 F 57F
June 18 - 108 F 65 F
June 19 - 105 F 64 F

All three highs are new daily records! 109 F is the record high for June. We came close.

There is more heat news. Currently average temperatures are running 0.863 C above average for the season to date. ….we are dangerously near the 1.5 C threshold many scientists consider the point of no return (at least year after year of sustained temperatures 1.5 C above the starting point). I can do the math to give you the exact average increase in the average temperatures.

     Because this Forum pertains to plants, gardens, gardening, and the wild places, we shall continue to present gardening, and the wilderness under these extreme conditions.
     Since there were questions regarding the inclusion of vegetable gardening in this Forum, I digress to other topics, ones that do not pertain to the Forum; yet influenced our decisions:
     Although thankfully we are healthy and well, essential workers are not. It is estimated that 70% of migrant laborers died from COVID in the past year. Due to their immigration status, this estimate may be inaccurate and low. At various times in the past year there were market shelves bare of everything from sensible staples to nonessential items. The bare shelves stayed bare for months, due to problems at the worker end of things combined with panic buying and hoarding.  No matter the hour, there were queues, bare shelves, and cashiers told us people camped out waiting for the store to open, and then fought over products.
     As the drought deepens and continues, farmers are told again to cut back and to leave land fallow.

[attachimg=1]

Strawberries ripening in our Sacramento garden.

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One of Robert’s single Dahlia hybrids.

     We always enjoyed our own produce anyhow, but now we feel food security is imperative. Despite a nation that celebrates vaccines and insists on a return to some past, the reality is otherwise: There were always those who distained masks and social distancing, and it was not limited to political party. These people will never vaccinate. Further, there are ample circles where masks, social distancing, and vaccines are luxuries: numerous essential workers are the working poor, including illegal migrant laborers, and a very much-expanded homeless population. Currently the COVID numbers for the US are low, but that is not zero. The effectiveness of the vaccines is not 100%, and with each mutation, the efficacy drops. Scientifically, viruses mutate much more quickly than bacteria. We went from a world that celebrated sulfa and antibiotics to having super bacteria with incredible resistance. Robert and I are opting to continue wearing masks and social distancing, because our experience as caregivers taught us to be cautious and not risk being either carriers of disease or a potential breakthrough case. This is about more than our own health and wishes: What if we became symptomless carriers, giving a version to someone at risk with autoimmune disease, and it further mutates into something yet more deadly and infectious?
     As we planted this year’s garden, we used seed we saved from the farm.  Shockingly, some of this seed was 10 years old!  We discovered this seed was better adapted to the climate we HAD 10 years AGO!  In some cases, we are able to proceed, but there are astounding results from the climate shift that has occurred in this time. Our goal must include creating genetically sound resilient varieties (ornamental as well as food crops) that can endure the environmental conditions. This is also the goal for saving seed of our native plants. Our wilderness is so crippled and devastated that we do not want to negatively impact our stressed and endangered native flora, which we consider plunder at this point given the decimation we see; we are committed to developing what we gathered years ago into varieties that are viable for our garden here.
     As a result, our garden evolved into an integration: we expand the bio-intensive mini-farm areas for both food and seed; and we have islands of ornamentals: rock garden areas, native plants to provide nectar, food, and habitat for our beloved butterflies, bees, birds, lizards, snakes, and other wildlife; and combinations of annuals and perennials that we both love and that provide nectar, food and habitat as well, but are not native to our area. Some islands of ornamentals were built around pre-existing perennials that have been in the garden for years. The rock garden areas are in tubs and a border of cinder blocks around several newly created vegetable beds. Many of you recall this area once had a shoddy construction that we removed in 2017.

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Habitat scene.

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Vegetable and Rock Garden

     It is our hope Forumists continue to enjoy Robert’s discussion, the direction of the different aspects of the garden and the wilderness, and gardening with such extremes over time. This diary is now more accurately about “our local patch” than a diary focused exclusively on our wilderness and native flora. We thank all our fellow gardeners who share their trials and joys in their gardens and local environments.

Blessings to all!


[attachimg=5]

Robert in his native habitat.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: hamparstum on June 23, 2021, 12:40:13 PM
Greetings/Saludos to you both from the South...
Winter started formally speaking 2 days ago...snow was forecasted for three/perhaps 4 days in a row as of yesterday...instead rain (most welcome here as well). We've been having an end of season drought similar of what you describe there. Our fall copious rains should have started by April 1. They actually started June 1...2 full months late!This year, hard frost came first on dry ground (???).
Not that it seems irrelevant at the end of the growing season, but because everything is adapted as said just above to a different pattern. So climate change is more than obvious, in spite of little local awareness of it. Like so many major issues, it is a conceptual problem that is for public discussion not a practical one that should make each one of us re-consider how we live and act personally, day by day. Climate change up there in California will inevitably bring major population shifts and in consequence a lot of conflict and internal strife. As I see it, it will occur faster than what most are willing to admit and thus I expect last minute running away for safety...except that  this present state of affluent environmentally pampered society is not exclusive to California. Just like Covid, it is global... The earth with its laws is saying enough/basta/genug and will let it massively be known about it everywhere at the same time, just like the pandemic. Grim future...YES...Am I pessimistic?  Actually no...Restrictions and suffering, that continue in time, year after year, are great teachers for the stubborn. On the opposite end there are those that have anticipated, and prepared themselves to these changes and made arrangements, just like Robert and Jasmine. My congratulations.

Arturo
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 23, 2021, 03:04:33 PM
Greetings Arturo,

Like you I see trouble ahead, however also like you I am very optimistic. The door opened for me to once again be involved in agriculture. Bio-intensive gardening/mini farming, permaculture, and plant breeding are as natural for me as a duckling taking to the water.

[attachimg=1]

Rebuilding compost piles at the farm.

Rebuilding the soil with carbon will help transform the desert into a lush productive oasis.

[attachimg=2]

Practicing multi-dimensional permaculture is nothing new to me. I was practicing this stuff 50 years ago, well before the term, permaculture came into use. Already, our Sacramento garden is a functioning permaculture of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, as well as many other life forms.

[attachimg=3]

I started working the earth at the farm over 40 years ago. Despite the land being fallow for over 10 years, it is still rich. Crops are being planted and are thriving. The wasteland is being transformed back into a paradise. With the farm and our Sacramento permaculture/bio-intensive mini-farm, we will easily be able to restart a sustainable agricultural system that provides us with 99% of our food. Ornamental plants are part of this equation. Selling food and/or plant products is, absolutely, not part of this equation. I want to live life, not engage in commerce.

In addition, having two sites to conduct plant breeding will be very helpful. The farm is isolated, so maintaining genetic purity will be much easier. Grow outs of reasonably large populations are also feasible.

It is all very promising and something that feeds my heart and soul each day.

This June might turn out to be the warmest on record. Stay tuned.

Now out to do the morning cross pollination(s) and the morning Wx analysis.

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: hamparstum on June 23, 2021, 04:25:00 PM
Robert, just like you I voluntarily decided to pull out of mainstream western contemporary life-style. We moved to our present farm in 1990 and ever since never imagined returning to anything like a human conglomerate. These are becoming visibly in-viable in every sense, if one hopes to lead a meaningful life. The imperative to return to the land is still heard as a whisper. Contemporary arrogance of an in-viable world system will inevitably crash down accelerated by every day reality, Covid being just the first one...The collapse of the modern industrial system, will make individuals face their every day matters on a strictly  personal basis. The other (to me obvious) dimensions that lead me to other realms of existence are way beyond the spirit and context of this thread ,forum and site so I keep myself silent :-X. Whoever may be interested as how I see these can pm privately.

Returning to your property in Placerville, I honestly think that a viable system can only be stable if you include domestic animals as part of the web of life. Some grazer or browser animals kept domesticated and tended so. We keep a small flock of milch sheep. The barn sweepings that include manure, and shredded barn bedding ( which are shredded by the feet of the ewes) generates a treasure. I also discovered the amazing uses and properties of shorn raw wool. ( raw as it comes off the sheep, dirty, full of dust and urine). We understand very little about underground vital soil sub-systems. In my student years as a Ag student in university we became familiar about symbionts: Rhyzobium nodules in fabaceae. That was about it. Not many more symbionts were discovered. What about the rest of families? How do they find the nutrients they need? There's a new approach: the commensals.( from Latin Co: together Mensa: table) These are microbial systems that interchange like guests at a table in a civilized conversation, guests information, microbes molecules and...nutrients so finally the higher plants get what they need. The existence of commensals was well known, but the exact pathways not. We are talking about 1000 different bacteria and fungi acting as commensals at the life's banquet all hidden from our bodily eyes, yet as critical as anything materially visible with a naked eye. Disrupting these mechanisms is like upturning a laid out table in front of our guests...This is like an analogy ( or parable if you prefer) of what I consider of the arrogance of the modern world as it rushes to its demise. Just like Covid, these un-desired consequences will occur hastily. If one is to accept that man is one of thousands of species, and look at the evolution of history, an invisible organism disrupted the entire globe in less than 2 years. For the optimists that think that vaccination will manage to eradicate it, they are being  just too simplistic just as Jasmine pointed out. The changes that have to come forth are of much deeper nature. Current population agglomerates where 9 of 10 inhabitants live in cities is untenable. The changes that HAVE to happen will require deliberate emptying of cities and facing the inhabitants to live off the land as have done for centuries their predecessors. The natural viable relation is exactly opposite : 9 rural inhabitants for each urban. Many will consider this utterly impossible... many are still wondering about Covid...but its there whether you like it or not. Needless to say that empty water reservoirs are a fact. So are massive devastating wildfires... The planet is a system. It has built-in regulatory mechanisms. When the limit has been reached, it automatically triggers off the regulatory mechanisms to restore back the system. If one is wise enough to humble himself, then personal priorities can shift and present challenges can be viewed as opportunities. I'm writing this like a last call at an airport, for any reader to whom these last posts rings a bell inside.


Arturo
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Maggi Young on June 23, 2021, 06:38:01 PM
It is excellent to hear more  from Jasmin, and  from Arturo as well.
I am astonished that there  may  have  been  (surprised?) comments about the  inclusion of vegetable  growing and breeding  in this forum - do all we forumists not eat? I rather  imagine  they do, and  so the  subject  is applicable I think!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: hamparstum on June 23, 2021, 09:52:38 PM
Maggie, I thought the vegetables we eat are plants.... :). I also thought that we discuss about growing plants and show photos of them. I find many edibles quite beautiful plants in their own right. Robert shows us ways to integrate everything into a single sustainable unit, in the size of his urban garden and his more extended rural property. I see a lot of wisdom and foresight in what they do/show as well as an introduction for potential readers of our discussions interested in making changes in their life styles.

Arturo
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Maggi Young on June 24, 2021, 10:40:57 PM
This photo of Zdenek Zvolanek, by Zdena Kourosova, seemed apposite!

[attachimg=1]

"Edible Alpines was class suggested by Jim Archibald ( the late seed collector. Here are  the  first collected at  the Beauty Slope." ( ZZ's garden in Karlick in Czechia)
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 25, 2021, 03:30:47 PM
Arturo,

I want to thank you for the weather/climatic information.

Also, you are spot on! I desire to integrate many aspects of gardening.

Any time you want to post text about your experiences growing plants at your farm, I am eager to learn more. I know you have your vegetable crops as well as ornamental species, both common and new to you. Your experiences must be unique to your climate, soil, and other growing conditions.
     Jasmin prefers birds and their garden contributions to other livestock. Ornery cows that press their full weight against you, crushing you into the barn wall; angry nursing sows; horses that trample in rages or fear, . . . you can see many farmers are injured by these so-called domesticated animals. Jasmin prefers dealing with finches, canaries, and what Australian gardeners consider total pests—the budgies and cockatiels.

Maggi

I like the term “rock garden”. The Anza Borrego Desert in Southern California is a gigantic natural rock garden. There is nothing ‘alpine’ at all in this desert. 40˚+ C high temperatures are common during the summer. During seasons when adequate precipitation falls, this desert explodes into a cacophony of blooming wildflowers. It is truly amazing. In other portions of eastern California, species grow that alpine growers seem to covet. There is nothing alpine about these ecosystems. I think that open mindedness to all types of plants and growing conditions is beneficial to all readers and participants of the forum.

Through open mindedness, I hope to learn from and appreciate the postings made by enthusiasts that enjoy truly alpine species, as well as those that grow South African bulbs, species from the Himalayas, or something that caught their eye at a local nursery. Here in Sacramento, I have limited growing space and the constraints of our climate and soil. Most alpine species will not grow in our garden; however species such as our native low elevation Calochortus thrive. For me, the concept of permaculture is the perfect solution that integrates fruits, vegetables, and a wide variety of annuals and perennials into one harmonious garden ecosystem. Everyone has his or her gardening methodology, and unique stories to tell. It is very interesting to read and see photographs of their gardens and learn from their experiences. The exact plants may not work in our garden; however the concepts, and techniques can be fascinating, and aspects (ideas on color, arrangements, etc.) inspire and can be integrated into our garden. There is always something new to learn. What a wonderful asset!

[attachimg=1]

Erythranthe lewisii x cardinalis is a hybrid of two of our local native species. There is nothing unique about this hybrid; others have made it in the past; however this selection is unique to our garden. So far this season, this selection blooms prolifically compared to my other seedlings of this cross. In this case, I made use of simple plants, easily obtainable in our area. This planted bed also contains seedling selections of our native Solidago canadensis, Anaphalis margaritacea, Eurybia integrifolia, and Aconitum columbianum ssp. vivparium, and new Epilobium canum hybrids I created. In addition, there are two peach trees and a native oak, Quercus lobata, and grow outs of the common annuals, Zinnia elegans and Cosmos sulphureus – unique hybrids that I created. Grow outs of beans and summer squash (for seed saving) also share this space. I let weeds such as dandelion, purslane, and evening primrose grow in this space (I eat them, yum-yum!). There is nothing exotic. All the plants can be found locally or find their way into the garden without my help (the weeds). What I like about this is that anyone can do this!  I find it highly creative (taking a common Zinnia and turning into something new and unique to our garden). I am never bored, each day and season has something new and exciting to see and experience. This is my creative vision of rock gardening, woodland gardening, permaculture, or whatever someone wants to call it.

To shift gears…

In the future I want to write about the California (plant) life zones in our region (at least how it was taught to me in college almost 50 years ago – so much of this has changed, e.g. think, the advances in biochemistry). Photographs and text might be review for many and edifying for others. Above all, I hope that it provides clarity when I write about my outings in the foothills and the higher portions of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: fermi de Sousa on June 26, 2021, 12:57:47 AM
It is excellent to hear more  from Jasmin, and  from Arturo as well.
I am astonished that there  may  have  been  (surprised?) comments about the  inclusion of vegetable  growing and breeding  in this forum - do all we forumists not eat? I rather  imagine  they do, and  so the  subject  is applicable I think!
I agree, Maggi, that it's wonderful to hear from Jasmin as well on this thread!
I also agree that we should never be "plant snobs" and turnip our noses at vegetables! (sorry about that :D )
When we visited New Zealand a few years ago I was impressed that the growers of superb alpines also had accompanying vegie gardens. We grow a varying amount of vegies (some years the depredation by critters is very discouraging) as well as ornamentals in our garden. And yes, even petunias! (Albeit the species Petunia axillaris).
Most kids are introduced to gardening via the growing of their own vegies. I certainly did and gradually graduated to flowers and of course the pinnacle of gardening is rock and Alpine plants  :D
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: hamparstum on June 26, 2021, 10:23:27 AM
Robert
    Part of the mysteries of life or gardening when it comes to the nature of this forum and thread is how to integrate human beings as they really are in their incredible complexity.  So it boils down to find the exact balance between plants and the people that tend them. From what you describe, Jasmin prefers feathered animals. So I went on thinking around which of those could fulfil the role of grazers or browser. Well just for the sake consistency I remembered two: domestic geese and domestic turkeys. Both can be kept free roaming. My neighbor just across my eastern fence kept both. It was fun to hear them. He would goose-herd them out of their enclosure every day and let them eat grass and return them into their coop at dusk. The same with turkeys that would also eat other plant materials perched in lower branches. From my experience with mammals, I honestly never had to go through those terrifying scenarios you mention. In thirty years, perhaps the most direct aggression I encountered was a ram that caught me un-aware and gave me a thug. Of course mine are very tame animals in nature: sheep. Of these, milch sheep are even more peaceful and gentle. I've been keeping a flock during these past 30 years. I still hand milk my ewes every day during the milking season. Sheep are seasonally poly-oestrus. That starts usually late February when days start getting visibly shorter and by mid April, milking should have finished. This season, as one other real world piece of data, today I have to still finish milking my last three ewes, of 8 that were being milked. Somehow, somewhere in the season the cue that animals utilize to adjust their internal clocks was displaced so this season  it has been delayed for 2 months at least. The rams were doing their duty as usual. This is not the first time I noticed these delays, but never this far ahead. So not only things have shifted but they are more pronounced. Although we can easily relate to the functional disruption that Covid has caused to mankind, it would seem that an even vaster disruption that is happening right now still is denied: the direct relationship of mankind and the planet earth. Perhaps this is caused by the delusion that one can live beyond the laws of nature...
Arturo
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 26, 2021, 06:24:09 PM
Arturo,

Your experience and observations with sheep are very interesting. Jasmin is the “animal” person. I am the “plant” person. Jasmin can fill you in more concerning her experiences with domestic animals. I am limited to my experiences raising turkeys when I was very young. We do have wild turkeys on our rural property in El Dorado County.

My endeavor is to create closed self-sustainable systems with plants. The goal is to feed us without inputs or outputs. This is not possible at our Sacramento home, however it is possible, at least in theory, to do this on (or with the addition of) the rural El Dorado County property. We, more or less, did this when we farmed. Without the export of farm products the process is greatly simplified, but still has many challenges. The process is very closely linked to the cultivation of ornamental plant species, so I will report on my progress and processes.

I am also working to create domestic self-sustaining seed lines with a few of our locally native plant species. As Jasmin wrote previously, the plunder and devastation of our local ecosystems has not only continued during the COVID epidemic, but it has accelerated. Jasmin is working on a photo essay of this situation. In addition, I monitor environmental conditions in each of our local ecological life zones (part of the original project). Some of my data sets contain nearly 40 years of daily-recorded information. From time-to-time, I post charts and information hoping to provide helpful information regarding our native plant species, the conditions under which they grow, and how they are responding to fluctuating environmental conditions. Sadly, there is very little “alpine” habitat without our region, however I know that some are interested in a broader spectrum of plant species. My hope is that this will help gardener grow plants that maintain long term viability in garden environments.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Leena on June 28, 2021, 07:12:37 PM
Robert, I admire what you are doing! Being self sustainable and growing your own seed lines. I envy your all year growing season, but on the other hand I don't know if I could live in so hot climate, so there are good and not so good things in each place. Your posts lately are inspirational, and though I grow some vegetables, I could do it more. Growing most of our food was a goal for me and my husband also once in 90s (and we had sheep and chicken also then), but after couple of years we had to do other work for money to pay the bills, and there wasn't enough time and energy left for anything but a small vegetable patch.
Just this year we are now part time retired and I'm hoping to have more time for the vegetable garden in the future, so I'm looking forward to reading more about your farm.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 29, 2021, 05:29:42 PM
Leena,

My wife Jasmin and I had a small market farm. We know first hand how difficult it is to make such an enterprise financially viable. Those that promote the new age of organic mini-market farming are generally dilettants. They are extremely well financed and their primary revenues are derived through lectures, seminars, writing books, radio shows, etc. Their so-called farms are frequently nothing more than amusement parks: petting zoos of farm animals, hay rides, and corn mazes. I once asked a fellow farmer what he thought of the use of a mandala-shaped vegetable garden as a practical method for growing vegetables profitably. His answer was succinct; this was “worthless as tits on a boar hog”. The principals of these operations may expound sound farming methodologies, and they may even work extremely hard; however the end results are elitism and a system that only works for the elite select few – those with money and in the “in crowd”.

I am retired, semi-retired. It is only with an outside source of income that I could attempt to create a self-contained, self-sufficient garden, mini-farm that provides our food needs as well as many beautiful ornamental plants. I hope to document how this endeavor evolves over time. I already have decades of experience; however challenges still exist. I hope fellow Forumists will find significance and inspiration in our evolving garden-mini-farm. This is just my way of approaching things, definitely not a blueprint to follow.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: ian mcdonald on June 29, 2021, 08:14:10 PM
I think big business is running countries, not our representatives. Profits before people.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on June 29, 2021, 11:28:12 PM
Ian,

My wife Jasmin and I call the social-political system in the U.S.A the “moneyocracy”. Business-as-usual proceeds no matter what the consequences – human suffering, ecological destruction of the planet, etc. The talk of a green, carbon neutral future is just that, talk. I believe this talk, like I believe that a chicken has lips.  Jasmin adds:  Look at the smiles on our birds’ beaks!

What I find disturbing about the latest wave of eco-farming promotion is that the principals prey on idealistic, well-intentioned young people. I have met a number of disillusioned people who have spent sweat, time and money on eco-farming seminars, courses, and other moneymaking schemes only to find that it does not lead to a financially viable livelihood in eco-farming, unless one is rich or one likes to work hard for slave wages.

BTW – I am now following your diary again. I am very impressed and it is very interesting. It appears that efforts are being made to restore and maintain some ecosystems in your study areas.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: ArnoldT on June 30, 2021, 03:01:38 AM
Robert

Many folks who have never farmed have this romantic idea about working the soil and growing one's food.

I often visit a family member who farms in the Puglia region of Italy.

He works 15-18 hours a day. Prays that some weather  pattern or  insect doesn't destroy all his hard work. 

His hands are like baseball gloves.

But he loves it.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: ian mcdonald on June 30, 2021, 11:48:42 AM
Hello Robert, I,m sorry to say the ecosystems I write about are the remnants of the landscape we used to be familiar with. "Development" (destruction) is now the norm. Apathy on the part of the majority allows this destruction to go ahead. The only wildlife friendly future will be our historic records. Too many people have been repeatedly told that we must have "development" and can,t be bothered to question this. The feudal system is still evident but people are too busy watching tv to realise. Small areas are preserved if the wildlife there is considered by our leaders to be important but these small areas are not connected to any other protected areas. This means that wildlife are in an ever shrinking area and cannot increase their populations. It is not too long ago that governments did not believe that climate change was happening. Anyone speaking up for wildlife were called "greens" as if they were abnormal. Who are the ignorant, I wonder. We seem to live in a time where it is accepted that we must loose our wildlife and our food comes at the cost of destroying our world.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on July 01, 2021, 05:04:19 PM
Arnold,

The description of your Italian family member is very familiar to me. I may be retired from moneymaking, but farmers never retire.

My wife loves my farmer hands! I am not sure if they are like baseball gloves, but they are constantly in the soil or handling a tool.

Yes, farming is hard work, but I too love it.


Ian,

It is sad to hear that massive development seems to be occurring almost everywhere on the planet these days.

My wife and I are working on a photo essay concerning the local destruction of the environment, climate change, and the impacts these activities are having on the wild plant species that we enjoy growing in our gardens. Social impacts that impact gardening will be address too. Many young people want to farm and/or garden, however housing and land prices are well beyond their financial means. If they do have the money, their work is so demanding that there is little time or energy left for gardening.

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on July 10, 2021, 07:25:29 PM
We are currently in the midst of a record-breaking heat wave. Today and tomorrow all time record high temperatures in our region are likely to fall. The record high temperature for the Placerville property is 110 F (43.3 C). Yesterday’s (9 July) high temperature at the Placerville property was 108 F (42.2 C).

Below is a chart of the average annual temperature at the Placerville property from July 1987 through June 2021. The period July 2020 through June 2021 was the second highest on record.

[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]

The above chart is the trend line of the average annual temperature (in degrees centigrade) at the Placerville property, 1990 through June 2021, using a 20-year running average. It is easy to see the alarming temperature trend, a 0.95 C increase in the average annual temperature during this time period.

The chart I posted earlier of the average annual precipitation from 1870 to 2020 shows a steady decline in precipitation and chronic drought over the past 15 years or more. I will be posting an updated precipitation chart and a 20-year running average chart in the future.

Climate change is having a severe impact on our regional ecosystems both managed and unmanaged systems. This translates into major impacts to our garden, both ornamental as well as food crops. Extreme summertime temperatures, a decline in winter chilling hours, chronic drought, and xenobiotic compounds in the atmosphere from the chronic wildfires are some of the major factors that are impacting our garden. Ecosystems in the Crystal Range are also being detrimentally impacted by the same factors listed above, as well as rising snow levels, and a decrease in the number of snow cover days each winter. The rate of temperature increase is higher in the Crystal Range (I will post this chart in the future), and this factor is accelerating other ecosystem changes.

During the Medieval Climatic Anomaly (c. 950 to 1250) it is estimated that temperatures were 3 C higher than previous time periods. Many lakes and rivers dried, and there is evidence of two periods of drought that each lasted 100 years. Our current temperatures are above those experienced during the Medieval Climatic Anomaly. The length and severity of drought are dramatically increasing in our region. The pace of change is extremely rapid. The rapid climatic shifts are causing irreparable damage to natural ecosystems throughout our region. Both plants and animals communities do not have adequate time to adjust to the climatic changes taking place.

Needless to say, we have to adjust our gardening to these obvious changes taking place. Many species, which grew well in our garden 15 years ago, have died off or have been removed due to poor performance. Considerable thought is being put into what plants to grow and how. Plant breeding (improvement/adaptability) is being pursued to help ameliorate the impacts. It is all an ongoing process that continues to evolve.

Until the next time…

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on July 11, 2021, 08:09:59 PM
[attachimg=1]

Yesterday’s (10 July) high temperature at the Placerville property was 112 F (44.4 C). This is a new all time high temperature. The old record was 110 F.

[attachimg=2]

The sensor for my data logger sits a few inches away from the mercury thermometer pictured above. It recorded a high temperature of 111.22 F (44.011 C) at 15:35. Both readings are very close and both break the all time high temperature record.

The photograph of the mercury thermometer came via my brother who is presently at the Placerville property. The information on the data logger I can access remotely from our Sacramento home. Over the next few days my brother and I will be deploying a weather station at the Placerville property that we can both access remotely. We will finally have a pyranometer to record solar radiation. It is a silicon type pyranometer, by no means the most accurate especially when the sun is very low in the sky, however it should be accurate enough for my purposes.


Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on July 12, 2021, 08:23:01 PM
Lots of interesting stuff since I last checked in! Great projects afoot with your farm restoration etc. I'm glad you are able to use sustainable techniques to steward and nurture the soil and all that comes with it in spite of climate challenges! Some of the recent temperatures have been shocking (esp to those of us who live where they are - so far- unimaginable!).

The recent Pacific Northwest Heat Dome had impacts into my area- though locally we did not get above 35C, not quite all time records (we had a36 a few years ago) -but the number of consecutive days at/ near/over 30C with nights 13 to 17C (we usu only get a couple of nights per year over 12) was very unusual. Fortunately we did not get the 40C range that many areas in B.C. and a few in AB reached, nor the 20C nights (we just aren't equipped for it- need much better insulation to keep the heat out and AC wouldn't be amiss for a few days! we also have humidity with those temps, esp here out of town, surrounded by vegetation).
We've also been lucky to have a good amount of precipitation so far, unlike some places- parts of B.C. are going up in flame, and even a friend in the nominally similar area near Edmonton, AB has had virtually no moisture since spring.
Interesting times for sure, in the sense of the supposed ancient Chinese curse!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: ian mcdonald on July 13, 2021, 09:58:00 PM
Robert, we are seeing pictures of the fires on the news. Are you affected?
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on July 14, 2021, 08:12:57 PM
[attachimg=1]

Ian,

Currently, there are no wildfires near our Sacramento home or our Placerville property. Yesterday, my brother could smell some smoke at the Placerville property, however it is unlikely it was coming from the Beckwourth Complex fire in Lassen County (see satellite image). You can see the smoke plume in the satellite image (upper just right of center) drifting off to the northeast. Our Sacramento home is located to the far lower left in the satellite image. The Placerville property is located in the next county to the right of our Sacramento home where the brown color starts to fade into the green color in the satellite image.

Over the last 5 years, wildfires have created a great deal of dense smoke with xenobiotic substances in the smoke that have adversely affected our garden. Many plant species were very sensitive to the xenobiotic substances. Some of these plants outright died, while others survived but were so adversely affected that we removed them. Climate change is one factor involved in the increased wildfire activity and the destructiveness, however massive damaging alterations of our natural ecosystems by the gold seekers (49er’s) from 1849 through the later 1800’s is a major factor. Even the activities of the Spanish during the 1600’s and 1700’s profoundly impacted our natural ecosystems, however most of this impact was along the California coast. Development and agriculture (both food crops and ranching) have severely altered or outright obliterated our natural ecosystems. There are strong indications that the pace of climate change is accelerating in our region. The plants in our garden and in managed – unmanaged ecosystems are responding to these shifts, not always in desirable ways. There is a need for me to be resilient as a gardener.



Cohan,

There has been a great deal of talk in my social circles about the recent heat wave in British Columbia. To help illustrate see the chart below.

[attachimg=2]

This chart shows the maximum high temperature reached each year, July to June 1987-1988 through 2020-2021 at our Placerville property. Most seasons the maximum high temperature is in the 103 F to 105 F range (second column). 6 years had maximum high temperatures in the 109 F to 111 F range. So currently, we can expect that every 10 years we will have 1 or 2 years where the high temperatures will reach 109 F to 111 F. This is, more or less, accurate based on long-term historical data from our area in California Climatic Year Book. Our recent new all time high temperature of ~ 111 – 112 F is just on the high end margin of the 109 F – 111 F column; something we might except every 50 years or so. A 120 F temperature is way off this chart, and even more so, a chart based on data from Kamloops, BC. Based on an analysis of this information, a 120 F high temperature might occur every 10 to 20 thousand years or more??? I would have to see the all the actual data to make this type of determination, but this heat event was way, way, way off the charts! To say this event is highly troubling is an understatement, but is indicating how out-of-control climate change has become. It is also another indication that climate change is accelerating.

The events I see taking place (more than just climate change) have prompted me to take action: Growing most of our own food using sustainable methods, and become a highly resilient gardener (both food and ornamental plants). I want to think carefully about everything I grow and how. Currently, I give much consideration to what I want the garden to look like. Is this realistic? From what I read on the Forum it is clear that climate change is impacting gardens almost everywhere on our planet, some locations more so than other locations. I hope the Forum can be a source of information to help gardeners successfully adjust to the climatic changes taking place.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on July 14, 2021, 08:30:52 PM
One can only wonder how things will be in the next few yeras to come, never mind beyond that. My immediate region has been less impacted than many- apart from literally 2 days a few years back, this is the first time we've had significant effects from heatwaves that have been prominent in many other places, even other parts of Alberta. We have had a definite general warming, which sounds like a good thing in a cold climate, and often most people would think so, but it is not that simple with climate change, of course.
More than anything, it means extremes so while this summer has mostly been above average to far above, and most of the last winter was also above average, for the last couple of winters we have had cold events near the extreme of our norms right at the end of the season.  These variable patterns seem to affect some plants in the rock gardens, but the associations are complex and hard to pinpoint- nothing so easy as drought! Each year some plants have dieback while others have banner years- and a different set the next year.
Oveall, effects on plants here have not been serious, but erratic springs can make sowing unpredictible for farmers, and while frost is generally later, wet falls can make harvest difficult, so we are certainly not immune. Both north and south of us in AB this year is very dry, looking like it could be a near total loss in some areas, though crops here are looking very good.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on July 17, 2021, 06:53:08 PM
Cohan,

As one of our Sacramento neighbors noted, the next 20 years are going to be very interesting (concerning climate change). I am already faced with many climate related challenges in our garden.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on July 18, 2021, 05:56:13 AM
Cohan,

As one of our Sacramento neighbors noted, the next 20 years are going to be very interesting (concerning climate change). I am already faced with many climate related challenges in our garden.

Indeed! Even here ( I say that very locally, since other parts of the province have had much more severe weather in several ways) where we have mostly had non-damaging climate change, the effects have still been quite notable since I moved back in 2007- in particular, springs have tended to be early, which means dry, though still variable, and this past winter was one of the warmest I've seen, though with a serious cold spell at the end!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on July 30, 2021, 07:47:15 PM
[attachimg=1]

I was recently in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. In the days ahead, I will post photographs and report on my continuing project.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on August 07, 2021, 10:12:00 PM
Before reporting on my last outing, some background on our current climatic conditions will provide the reader with a better understanding of what our mountain ecosystems and the plants that grow in them are encountering. These systems are currently enduring severe drought in addition to the cumulative impacts of long-term shifts in our climatic patterns.

Presently, thick smoke from the Dixie Fire blankets Northern and a large portion of Central California. Large-scale wildfires and the dense smoke from them is now a yearly occurrence. The dense smoke persists for many weeks; frequently well over a month or more. As with the destruction of the Amazonian Rainforest, the wildfires release large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere, compromising the ecosystem’s ability to act as a carbon sink; it alters meso-scale weather patterns, and regional hydrology.

This season is the third driest season in over 140 years (since precipitation records were kept). The three driest seasons on record have all occurred since the 1976-77 precipitation season. When I finish my statistical analysis of our regional precipitation patterns, the dramatic shifts that have taken place will be quite clear. There is strong evidence that during the Medieval Warm Period, California endured two periods of drought, both approximately 100 years in duration. Current climatic shifts in our region suggest that such long-term periods of drought are possible in the future.

In our region, the current trend of increasing average annual temperatures continues. The latest July to June time period was the second warmest on record. Monthly high temperature anomalies are becoming more frequent. The average temperature during July 2021 was the second warmest on record. The average high temperature for July 2021 was the highest on record, and a new all time record high temperature of 111 F (43.89 C) was set on 10 July 2021 at our Placerville property. Many other high temperatures have been broken, and if the current seasonal trend continues, more high temperature extremes will be broken by the end of the current summer/autumn season. In the Sierra Nevada Mountains, high temperature extremes are much more extreme. For example, during July 2021 temperatures at our Placerville property were 4.65 F (2.58 C) above average. At 6,600 feet elevation on the western slope of the Crystal Range (our local portion of the Sierra Nevada Mountains) July 2021 temperatures were 5.21 F (2.89 C) above average. This temperature spread and shift was projected years ago in early climatic models for our region. There is strong evidence during the Medieval Warm Period temperatures were up to 2 C warmer than they 50 years ago. Evidence supports the hypothesis that large-scale elevation shifts in our regional vegetation occurred.

Both managed and unmanaged systems are being impacted by these climatic changes. Unmanaged systems are frequently very stable and resilient to change. However, these systems have their tipping points and biological limits. Managed systems (agricultural, or gardens) can be designed to be resistant to disruption caused by climatic change. These design elements have many facets; however increasing the carbon content of the soil is likely the most effective means of designing resilience into managed systems. We now live in a world where we need to adjust our practices to rapidly changing environmental conditions.


[attachimg=1]

It is not unusual for Tells Creek to become dry, especially during a dry season. Low water flows and a dry water channel at the end of July in this area are extreme. Other spring fed creeks in this area, which I monitor frequently, are flowing at record low levels. This suggests that the long-term storage of the underground aquifers is also becoming depleted. I see evidence of this everywhere I travel in this area.

[attachimg=2]

Bunk House Meadow (this is the name I give this location) is still fairly moist.

[attachimg=3]

Anaphalis margaritacea is a frequently observed species in this area.

[attachimg=4]

Solidago elongata is another frequently seen species. This species is blooming about 30 days earlier than average in this area.

[attachimg=5]

The majority of the stands of Symphyotrichum spathulatum var. spathulatum that I observed were showing mild signs of environmental stress.

As the season progresses, indications of stress in these ecosystems is likely to increase due to high temperatures and continuing dry conditions.

As a side note, the monsoon season was fairly active in July. Most of the precipitation occurred south and east of this area. This is the usual monsoonal precipitation pattern for our region. This area did receive some measurable precipitation, 0.03” (0.76 mm). Studies have demonstrated that thunderstorms can repeatedly form over specific sites and terrain. I observe and record summertime thunderstorm activity on the western slope of the Crystal Range. During July thunderstorms frequently developed at specific sites and produced significantly more precipitation in these areas.

More later…
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on August 08, 2021, 02:22:35 PM
Interesting that the thunderstorms seem to occur in the same spots repeatedly. Here, the thunderstorms typically begin to develop in the foothills to the west of me, then move east and north, usually gaining strength as they move into progressively warmer zones farther from the mountains. Where they actually strike/where rain falls seems random or at least variable, though I think there is some channeling by topographical variation..
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on August 09, 2021, 07:14:39 PM
Cohan

I enjoyed your observations concerning thunderstorm genesis and patterns in your area. Are you familiar with terrain related convergence zones that trigger thunderstorms on a regular basis? One older study of this phenomenon can be found on the Internet – Schaaf et al., 1986. A Google search should bring it up easily.

I just read a synopsis of the U.N. Report on Climate Change. I am very skeptical of some of their optimistic conclusions. I certainly believe that there are tipping points; where natural systems move toward a new and different point of equilibrium (no going back to the pervious pattern of equilibrium). I am designing resiliency into my systems, both the ornamental garden as well as my agricultural projects.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on August 11, 2021, 07:21:19 PM
I haven't read a lot about thunderstorm formation-- just for my region where the usual idea is (I might be missing some parts, it was a while ago that I read) that the morning sun hits the east facing foothills earlier than the lower lands in front of them, causing a temperature differential that initiates the cloud formation. Presumably evaporation and diurnal temperature swings further contribute to storm formation- also we don't usually get stable air masses-- there are often systems of varying temperature moving in from one of several directions.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: hamparstum on August 18, 2021, 10:06:30 PM
Robert, I read today with quite some concern about the Calder fire in El Dorado county. Residents have been given evacuation orders near Placerville. I do hope you are still doing well. Nevertheless, my prayers are with you and your people there.
Arturo
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on August 19, 2021, 04:51:31 PM
Arturo,

Yes, the Calder Fire is very close to home. Folks we know have lost their home or have been evacuated. We have opened our Sacramento home to evacuees but so far our home has not been needed. The El Dorado County property is currently safe. I will report more when the situation is not as critical.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on August 20, 2021, 05:15:50 PM
Hope the situation doesn't worsen!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on August 22, 2021, 12:19:36 AM
An update on the local Caldor Fire:

During the initial phase of the Caldor Fire, the fire just exploded from a small event into an inferno, and the small community of Grizzly Flat burned to the ground. A friend of mine shared a video with me of the community after a few residents were allowed to return. Only two or three structures remained. All the other structures burned to the ground including the fire department. In this forested community, most of the standing trees were burned and blackened, with a few still burning. The power lines were burned to the ground and the road surface was littered with debris.

Despite the steep terrain and heavy timber, with many drought stressed, dead, and dying trees, the fire did not spread as much as we knew it could over the last few days; however last evening the winds increased in velocity. Wind direction has been highly variable, leading to many evacuations in all directions. Spotting and rollout continue to expand the fire’s perimeter. Strong winds are forecasted for the fire area today, 21 August. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of homes are still threatened by the fire. Many nearby communities have been evacuated. Depending on how the fire reacts to the wind today, many more homes may be lost and additional evacuation orders given.

Many of the plant communities I have reported on over the years have been burned over by the fire and additional locations are threatened. It is unknown how these ecosystems will respond in the aftermath of the fire.

[attachimg=1]

This chart illustrates the changing precipitation pattern in our region from 1999 to 2021. This time period has been the driest in our region in perhaps 1,000 years. Even during this extremely dry period precipitation continues to decline.

[attachimg=2]

The temperature trend is not encouraging either. After a pause, temperatures are beginning to increase. The July 2020 thru June 2021 time period was the second warmest since record keeping started at our El Dorado County property over 38 years ago. The 34-year average is 0.4 C above the baseline temperature. During the 2014-2015 season the average temperature exceeded the 1.5 C threshold.

[attachimg=3]

It is easy to see how the smoke impacts the amount of solar radiation reaching the surface. This observation site is located very close the more active portion of the Caldor Fire. I will not be surprised if the site is lost due to the fire.

[attachimg=4]

Our El Dorado County property is currently out of the mandatory and potential evacuation zones. Here the smoke is impacting the amount of solar radiation reaching the ground. The cooling temperatures are due, partly, to a change in the synoptic weather pattern, however the impact of the dense smoke on the amount of solar radiation reaching the surface is also impacting daytime temperatures.

This wildfire is very “close to home” in many ways. We are watching conditions closely and hoping for the best. How the fire reacts to the winds today will likely determine the ultimate destructiveness of the fire.

The Caldor Fire is severely impacting a large portion of the watershed of El Dorado Irrigation District, the provider of drinking water and agricultural water for most of El Dorado County. The fire’s impact on ecosystems in this region will need to be evaluated over time. The fire and climate change will be large factors in determining the new state of ecosystem equilibrium in this area.

I will post more as time permits.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on August 24, 2021, 06:36:36 AM
Sounds very stressful :(
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on August 28, 2021, 07:40:17 PM
[attachimg=1]

A quick update on the status of the Caldor Fire in El Dorado County, California.

The Caldor Fire continues to burn in El Dorado County, California. Based on information gleaned from satellite images and information provided by Calfire, at least 25% of Eldorado National Forest has burned to date. The total area burned in El Dorado County is approaching 25% of the total land area of the county! Reliable information provided by the news media is problematic. The above 3.9 µm satellite image shows the current hotspots (dark – black areas in satellite image) where the fire is burning intensely.


Currently, our El Dorado County property is relatively safe. I have spent time working on additional fire safety measures on the property. Thick choking smoke is an issue at times, especially over the last few days. Air quality is frequently off the charts beyond the extremely unhealthy range, as you can see in the satellite image below.

[attachimg=2]

This satellite image shows how extensive the smoke is in our region. Even in Sacramento, the smoke has been intense at time. Smoke from both the Dixie Fire, which continues to burn, and the Caldor Fire settles into the Sacramento Valley. Very little smoke mixes out of our area, as winds have been light over the last few days. Winds are forecasted to increase out of the SW. This is good for our air quality in Sacramento, however the SW winds present challenges to the fire fighters. With increasing wind speeds the Caldor Fire may, again, begin to spread rapidly.

The damage to habitat will take months (perhaps years) to assess. Many of the sites that I visit frequently and have enjoyed for a lifetime are located within the burn area. It is likely to be months before it will be safe to travel into these areas due road damage and the potential danger from falling trees that burned during the fire.

I will report more as I can.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on September 09, 2021, 02:57:50 PM
I hope you get some relief from the fire risk and smoke-- must be stressful having that so close by... we've been smoke-free for weeks now, but the weeks we had were yucky enough, even longer would not be fun!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on September 22, 2021, 07:38:10 PM
Due to the Caldor Fire, Eldorado National Forest is closed. Currently the earliest date the forest may reopen is 30 September. This is not a firm date. Many of the sites I frequently visit have been severely impacted by the fire. It may be many months before I can revisit these sites and begin evaluating the impacts to the flora and ecosystems. The Caldor Fire burn area has impacted approximated 33% of the total land area of Eldorado National Forest. This is just one of many ongoing ecological disasters that are taking place in our part of Northern California. The following are excerpts from an essay I am writing concerning our present climatic patterns and the impacts these changes are having on our region.


The impacts of climate change and ENSO in our portion of Northern California are worth noting. Since the late 1890’s ~ 70% of the recorded El Niño events have brought above average precipitation to our region. With La Niña events seasonal precipitation amounts have been mixed; ~ 50% wet, ~ 50% dry. This analysis did not differentiate the El Niño- La Niña events based on their magnitude.

Of greater concern in our region is the consistent decline of yearly precipitation since the 1870’s. Since the 1870’s our average annual precipitation has declined more than 20%. Since 1980 the decline in precipitation has been 8.69%. There is strong paleo-climatic evidence that California experienced two periods of drought each lasting ~ 100 years during the Medieval Warm period. Since 2000, our region of Northern California has entered a period of extended drought that is still ongoing. Of the 21 precipitation seasons beginning in 2000, only 5 seasons have had above average precipitation. Excluding the wet seasons, our region has experienced 76% of average precipitation since 2000. The question is, have we reached a climatic threshold/tipping point where new climatic patterns will become the new normal.

Increasing temperatures are also a concern. The July 2020 – June 2021 time period was the second warmest in the last 40 years (since my record keeping began). As of today, 22 September, temperatures are running 1.651 C above the beginning baseline temperature (a very conservative number). In the Sierra Nevada Mountains temperatures are 1.702 C above the respective baseline temperature.

All of these climatic shifts are having a strong impact on managed (agriculture, gardening, etc.) and unmanaged (wild ecosystems) systems in our region. Many of the ecosystems that reemerge in the aftermath of the Caldor and Dixie Fires will be profoundly transformed from their previous states of dynamic equilibrium. California agriculture is currently strained by persistent climatic impacts such as drought, excessive heat, declining winter chilling hours, salinity, and other environmental stresses to crops and livestock. These changes also impact ornamental gardening.

Here in Northern California, these are a few of the extreme challenges we face due to climate change.

I have an outing planned to the Sonora Pass region of the Sierra Nevada during the first week of October. Hopefully the National Forest in this area will not be closed and I will have a successful outing with interesting photographs to share.

Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 09, 2021, 08:02:43 PM
[attachimg=1]

I have returned to Sacramento after visiting the Sonora Pass region of the central Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. There were issues with the weather and photographic equipment failures. Some of the photographs turned out well despite periods of dense smoke from wildfires, then snow and overcast skies at the higher elevations (10,000 feet plus; 3,048 meters), and the mentioned equipment failures. I was able to borrow another camera and am waiting for the remaining photographs to be sent to me. Once I get caught up and process the photographs I will post a summary of this trip.

[attachimg=2]

It was the peak season for color on the Quaking Aspens, Populus tremuloides.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on October 14, 2021, 02:26:09 PM
Camera failures are a pain in the behind! Good you were able to borrow one, at least.. Nice colour on the aspens- we are now past peak, a lot of trees bare and Tamaracks/Larix have reached peak- always after the other trees.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 14, 2021, 07:08:29 PM
Cohan,

We are finally having cool autumn-like weather. It sure beats the extreme record-breaking heat of this past summer. The marine, onshore airflow moderated summer temperatures at our Sacramento home; however continental conditions dominated the summer weather at our Placerville property. In Placerville it was extremely hot most of the summer.

Yesterday, I was in Placerville and was able to air drop the remaining photographs to my laptop. These were the photographs that turned out well and consisted of most of the plant photographs. Air Drop sure beats transferring the photographs via email!

[attachimg=1]

This is a scene of the Aspens, Populus tremuloides, at Monitor Pass.

[attachimg=2]

Here I am near Sonora Pass doing field botany. This time of year there are very few plants in bloom; however I am keenly interested in how plants are responding to environmental variables, and why they respond to the variables in a particular manner. For me there is always something interesting to observe.

Although right now I have fall planting and a lot of work, I do hope to have time to write a submission about this particular field trip and my observations.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on October 15, 2021, 03:37:09 PM
Looking forward to the rest of the pics. What is Air Drop?
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 15, 2021, 06:56:10 PM
Cohan,

AirDrop is part of the Apple computer operating system. It allows close range wireless transfer of files, such as photographs, between computers. It is my preferred method to move photographs off my camera to one of my computers.


[attachimg=1]

Our trip to the Sonora Pass region of California started on Monday, 4 October 2021. Originally three were to participate in this outing; however one person dropped out due to health issues. So this trip consisted of my brother Jim and I.  Since this was a week-long excursion, I will discuss this outing in segments.

The first leg of the journey started in Placerville. We traveled eastward up Highway 50 over Echo Summit. I was able to observe, first hand, a portion of the destruction caused by the Caldor Fire in Eldorado National Forest. There were very strict traffic controls in place, so stopping to take photographs was not possible.

Once in Christmas Valley, we turned south on Highway 89, traveled over Luther Pass into Hope Valley, down the Carson River canyon, then southward to Markleeville. Here we encountered the destruction caused by the Tamarack Fire earlier this summer.

[attachimg=2]

Here we turned eastward to drive over Monitor Pass. The first photograph is a view facing west at the summit of Monitor Pass. Top, is a photograph of my older brother Jim at Monitor Pass.

[attachimg=3]

This is a view facing east as we left Monitor Pass and drove toward Antelope Valley on the east side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

[attachimg=4]

The smoke from the KNP Complex in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park was terrible during the first portion of our trip. The smoke became especially dense in the Antelope Valley. The AQI (Air Quality Index) was off the scale. Due to the frequent massive wildfires each summer, this is now a common occurrence in our portion of California for the last 5 years or more.

[attachimg=5]

Once we reached Antelope Valley, we traveled southward toward the junction to Sonora Pass. I estimate that half the land area we traveled through, between Placerville and Sonora Pass, has been burned over by wildfires during the last 5 years. Drought and climatic change is slowing regrowth and recovery of the vegetation and ecosystems. There is evidence the systems that emerge after the wildfires will be very different form the previously existing ecosystems.

To be continued…
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on October 17, 2021, 06:46:48 AM
Smoke is a real drag. We had it for a rather modest period this year (coming from west, south and east, though mostly B.C.), then recently a really short spell as smoke came from northeastern Saskatchewan!

That first view, with aspens, could *almost* be here, then the views rather diverge...lol
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 17, 2021, 08:40:47 PM
Cohan,

Some of the plants common to the Great Basin might also be plant species seen in your home region.

[attachimg=1]

We made a very brief stop in Antelope Valley before continuing our trip southward to Sonora Pass. Rabbit Brush, Chrysothemnus viscdiflorus ssp. viscidiflorus, is a very common Great Basin Species and blooms during the late summer-autumn. Atremisia tridentata ssp. tridentata, Big Sage Brush, was also seen; likely the most common species seen throughout the Great Basin.

[attachimg=2]

Some of the annual autumn blooming Eriogonum species are very showy when seen blooming in mass. I did not have time to key any of them to the species level; however they were frequently seen as we drove southward.

[attachimg=3]

We arrived at Sonora Pass late in the day.

[attachimg=4]

The smoke was still fairly dense; however it had dissipated greatly compared to the levels of smoke in Antelope Valley.



The was no place to camp at Sonora Pass (no water), so we traveled down the west side of the pass to the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River where we found a designated camp site near the river. Although it was a formal campsite, there were no other campers except the campground host a fair distance from our camp. Unfortunately, the host ran a gasoline generator into the evening each night. At least we were camped as far away as possible from their campsite.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 21, 2021, 07:30:42 PM
[attachimg=1]

Our camp was set and there was still plenty of light for a short hike before dark.

[attachimg=2]

We hiked up the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River to Kennedy Meadows. The last time I visited Kennedy Meadows was in 1973 when I was 17-years old.

[attachimg=3]

Human development has had a detrimental impact on this area. The original Kennedy Meadows resort has been in existence for at least 100 years. Since my last visit in 1973, the number of trailers, pack animals, pavement, and buildings has increased tremendously. The meadow ecosystems have been impacted detrimentally by grazing pack animals and direct human activities. On close inspection, the hooves of the pack animals had seriously trampled the vegetation of the meadow. Soil compaction was negatively impacting the meadow ecology. In many areas, the understory vegetation has been reduced to dust or mud by the traffic of campers, vehicles, travel trailers, grazing animals, and fire wood gathering.

[attachimg=4]

Attempts have been made to stabilize the incised and eroding banks of the Stanislaus River. These efforts have failed due to the relentless human pressure on the ecosystem.

[attachimg=5]

Environmental conditions did not improve until we reached the wilderness boundary. Unfortunately, the sun was now setting and we needed to return to our camp. I would have enjoyed exploring the wilderness; however our plans were to return to Sonora Pass and hike in the high alpine areas above the pass.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 22, 2021, 11:26:54 PM
[attachimg=1]

The next morning we drove back to Sonora Pass to explore the southern route from the pass. The trail traverses the northern drainage of an unnamed 11,000-foot (3,352.8 meters) peak through a long series of switchbacks that eventually skirt the western ridge and flank the peak.

[attachimg=2]

Much of the smoke from the previous day had dispersed; however the weather had also turned cold and unsettled.

[attachimg=3]

It was frustrating attempting to photograph the plants as the camera preformed poorly in the cold weather.

Pinus albicaulis, White Bark Pine, is a common species seen near the tree line in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

[attachimg=4]

Phacelia hastata var. compacta is a high elevation species frequently seen in the Canadian through the Artic-Alpine life zones.

[attachimg=5]

Antennaria species can be difficult to key to the species level when flowers are not present. These predominantly mat-forming species can have very attractive silvery foliage.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Diane Whitehead on October 25, 2021, 06:15:06 AM
If you find a new species, you might be able to name it.

If you find an unnamed mountain, may you name it?
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 26, 2021, 03:04:18 PM
Hello Diane,

I do not know what is involved to name a mountain peak.  ???

As for naming a new plant, I think the person who discovered the new plant as well as the one writing the botanical description for the new plant can give the new plant its name. I am not sure, but this seems reasonable.

For me it is exciting to observe how plant species change and respond to changing environmental variables. Climate change is fertile ground for such change! Frequently, genetic expression is governed by one or more transcription factors that regulate the expression of a gene based on environmental variables. In addition, epigenetics, which includes the acetylation of histones, can alter gene activity based on environmental variables. Gene expression can be suppressed or activated, and these characteristics can be passed on to their offspring without changes to the gene sequences. Obviously, as the plants change, so do their plant communities. Using techniques such as multiple regression analysis, it is possible to mathematically model the interaction of plants and plant communities with independent variables. Predictive modeling is also possible and can be tested against empirical observations. Even in managed systems, such as agricultural systems (or ornamental gardens), how plants respond to environmental variables can be interesting and useful. For example, I am currently testing how Curcubita pepo and C. maxima (summer and winter squash) infected with mosaic virus respond and resist viral infection based on environmental variables. It is all very fascinating.

Before resuming my posting of the outing, some news:

Over the past 36 hours our portion of California received a direct hit from a potent atmospheric river (AR). We received the equivalent of 30% of our total average yearly precipitation during this time period. Despite the dry extreme drought conditions there was some flooding. Our power stayed on, however Internet service was out for two days. My wife, Jasmin, and I did some preliminary cleanup this morning. The garden seems intact with little damage.



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In September of 2016 I botanically explored the southern portion of the Sonora Pass region as well as climbed the unnamed peak. On this outing we skipped climbing the peak and proceeded southward on the trail. Time eventually ran out and we returned to our camp on the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River. There was interesting territory to explore; however this will have to be explored at another time.

Here I am at camp relaxing and preparing a meal.

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The next day we once again returned to Sonora Pass this time to explore the northern portion of the pass region. It had rained overnight. By morning the weather became increasingly threatening and a very cold wind blew. We started off on what we thought was the trail.

This is the view off to the west. The clouds were dark and laden with moisture.

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This was the view to the east (180° from preceding photograph), with the mountains of Nevada in the far distance. This is the “dry side” of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Much moisture can be released from the clouds as they are lifted over the mountains. It can often be storming and snowing on the Sierra crest while the east side basks in the sun or broken clouds.

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This was our view as we turned and looked south.

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One goal this day was to cross this mountain pass and explore the drainage on the other side.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 26, 2021, 03:08:38 PM
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As we proceeded up the “trail” the ascent became progressively steep and the trail less defined. The “trail” entered a steep ravine and hiking became class II climbing (hands necessary) on loose scree.

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The route became treacherous. Great care and concentration was required to stay safe.

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After considerable effort we made it safely to the correct, defined, and maintained trail. Our climb? Not bad for two men 66 and 72-years old climbing at over 10,000-feet elevation! As we eventually found out, the signs for the defined and maintained trail had been taken down for the season. Unless we had used the trail in the past, there was no way to find the correct route. It was well hidden behind trees!

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Here the correct trail can be seen as it traverses down the mountain to Sonora Pass.

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From our current location, it was only a short distance to the summit of the pass. As we continued toward the summit it began to lightly snow. We questioned if we should turn back or continue our journey. We decided it would have to snow much more intensely before we would turn back. We soon reached the pass and continued into the Wolf Creek drainage.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on October 26, 2021, 07:27:21 PM
I was wondering how you made out with Bomb cyclone(s)- the irony of excessive short term moisture after prolonged drought!

For sure there are species that occur here that occur over a very wide area of this continent and the northern hemisphere as a whole- mountains to the west are some barrier, and drier /grassland areas to the south/east a barrier to woodland plants from the east, but overall, it is wide open in every direction!
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 29, 2021, 07:02:04 PM
Cohan,

Our recent deluge of precipitation was just another anomalous weather event that occurred in our region this year. The record-breaking heat wave from late June into July was extreme, never mind the record-breaking heat of the whole time period from June through September. My hypothesis is the Earth’s climate system has surpassed a tipping point beyond which a return to the previous state is impossible. This is what I enjoy doing in retirement!  Maybe my research will support my hypothesis, maybe it will not. I will at least have fun going through the process.


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Up to this point the geological terrain we hiked was dominated by an andesitic landscape of volcanic rock. As we traversed the Wolf Creek Basin the terrain transitioned at the northern end of the basin to a landscape dominated by a pluton of granite. Here we encountered stands of Mountain Hemlock, Tsuga mertensiana. This species was comparatively common on the granite substrate and was found growing in no other locations.

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Below the trail a series of dry meadows were visible and enticed us to explore them in detail. Based on the dry remains of plants I found, the meadows must have been a beautiful sea of wildflowers during the “spring” – summer months.

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We were surprised to find traces of snow on the ground. The traces of snow were likely what remained from a recent storm a week or two earlier. After such a dry winter, it was not likely leftover from the previous winter season.

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Penstemon newberryi was another species that seemed to prefer the granitic type rock.

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Juncus parryi is a dryland Juncus species frequently seen in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 30, 2021, 07:29:26 PM
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From the meadow there was a nice view of Wolf Creek Lake.

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It would have been interesting to explore around the lake; however it would have been a steep hike back to the pass. We already had enough of that for the day.

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There was the usual mix of Ericaceae surrounding the meadow area. Groups of Cassiope mertensiana could be found growing near large boulders.

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Kalmia polifolia prefers more moisture, and was seen in the meadow where there was likely running or standing water earlier in the season.

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A few of the Phyllodoce breweri had bloomed fairly recently; their faded flowers still showing some color.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 30, 2021, 07:32:29 PM
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The rock fern, Cryptogramma acrostichoides, as its common name implies, enjoys growing in rock crevices. Given the dry conditions, most of the plants were completely dormant, with no green foliage.

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Drymocallis lactea often has highly colored foliage in the autumn. This time of year it can be very difficult to determine the subspecies; there are several.

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There were other Drymocallis and Potentilla species in the meadow area. Both Genuses are closely related to each other. There were other places we wanted to visit this day, so I did not take the time to identify all the different species in the meadow area.

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The storm clouds were intensifying and the snow showers were becoming more frequent, so we decided to move on to a new location.

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From the meadow we climbed back to the trail and continued northward to the boundary with the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness. The weather was becoming increasingly questionable. At this point we decided to return to Sonora Pass.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 30, 2021, 07:35:32 PM
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My brother set off toward the pass while I proceeded at a slower pace, botanizing as I went. We both had our handy talky radios, to keep in touch as we became separated from each other.

There were not many flowers to see; however there were many familiar plant species. Monardella odoratissima ssp. pallida was frequently seen in the scree along the trail.

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Mountain Sorrel, Oxyria digyna, is a fairly common species in Central Sierra Nevada Mountains. I rarely or never encounter this species in the north.

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I noticed a few Aquilegia plants on my return to the pass. Two species grow in this region, A. formosa and A. pubescens. Given the elevation and the rocky, talus habitat, the plants were likely Aquilegia pubescens. The two species can easily hybridize with each other, so making a firm determination as difficult.

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There were also some interesting Eriogonum species. Most I could easily identify; however there were a few that were difficult to firmly determine without flowers.

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Astragalus species can be very interesting. This plant was likely Astragalus purshii var. lectulus
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 31, 2021, 06:59:09 PM
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Even in early October as snow and cold weather was settling in, a few species were producing a few late season flowers. Lupinus lepidus var. lobbii has very attractive foliage and flowers with a very low compact growth habit.

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Trifolium monanthum is prostrate with small trifoliate leaves. It is commonly found growing with other small, tiny-leaf, green foliage plants and can often go unnoticed.

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Trifolium monanthum is a moisture loving species and is frequently seen near seeps and spring in the high elevations of the Central Sierra Nevada Mountains.

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Late in the season most of the high elevation Phlox species look dry and are dormant. Phlox condensata is a small cushion forming species. Here it can be seen with Ivesia gordonii.

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Eriogonum ovalifolium var. nivale is another species that is generally completely dormant by the end of the summer, especially during extreme drought conditions such as occurred this past season. The lovely magenta-red flowers could be seen on a few plants in the area. The falling snow prevented me from photographing these plants.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 31, 2021, 07:01:54 PM
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Agoseris monticola was another species seen with a few late out-of-season flowers.

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I found one plant of Penstemon heterodoxus with their beautiful red-violet flowers.

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Linium lewisii var. lewisii, Lewis’ Flax, has blue flowers and is frequently seen at high elevations in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

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In the dark volcanic soil, the small rosettes of Calyptridium umbellatum were difficult to spot.

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Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. incompta was one of a number of Artemisia species seen on this trip. Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. incompta is a common species in the Arctic-Alpine life zone. This species tends to prefer soil that does not completely dry during the summer.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on October 31, 2021, 07:04:54 PM
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Many Ericameria species can be found on the east side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Rayless Goldenbush, Ericameria discoidea, is commonly seen in the Arctic-Alpine life zone of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Here it is growing near Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. incompta.

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Chaenactus douglasii forms small rosettes of gray-green foliage.

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At times the foliage of Chaenactus douglasii can appear silvery. At this phase the foliage is quite striking.

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Cirsium andersonii is one of many Cirsium species native to California. This species tends to be a high elevation species.

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The flowers of Cirsium species can be quite showy and interesting.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on November 01, 2021, 06:00:09 PM
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This is a typical rosette of Cirsium andersonii with green foliage and white veining of the leaves. Other California native Cirsium species have very dramatic silvery, cob-webbed foliage. Forms of Cirsium occidentale are quite striking with their silvery, cobwebbed foliage.

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Packera cana is another silver-foliage species found in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This species forms small rosettes topped by yellow daisy-like flowers during the growing season.

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The Genus Lupinus can be tricky to identify, especially without flowers. To the best of my ability, I keyed this example to Lupinus argenteus var. meionanthus. Since I did not bring a key with me--I rarely do--I have a degree of uncertainty. Whatever the species, our California native Lupinus species are handsome plants I find very intriguing.

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This specimen of Ipomopsis aggregata ssp. aggregata had a few lingering flowers. This species is easy to identify to the subspecies level with its exserted anthers and white pollen. In full bloom it is a striking species.

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When in bloom, Frasera speciosa is a tall imposing species that cannot be missed in the field. It is a member of the Gentianaceae family. The flowers are Gentian-like, white with a yellow central band and maroon spotting on the petals.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on November 01, 2021, 06:02:56 PM
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Artemisia tridentata is likely the most common species throughout the Great Basin. Variety vaseyana is found in the higher elevation regions of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is generally very compact, and a smaller plant than Artemisia tridentata var. tridentata.

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One knows autumn has arrived when the leaves of Wyethia mollis, Woolly Mule’s Ear have dried completely. The large dry leaves make a distinctive rattling sound in the wind that is very pleasant. The large yellow daisy-like flowers are enjoyable in the spring.

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After a long and satisfying day we finally arrived back at the trailhead at Sonora Pass. We spent another night in the Kennedy Meadows area; we had one more farewell view of Sonora Pass on our way back to Placerville.

This is a typical scene at or near the tree line in the Central Sierra Nevada Mountains.

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This is another view to the north toward the pass we crossed the previous day.

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This is a view east toward the state of Nevada from the summit of Sonora Pass.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on November 01, 2021, 06:05:24 PM
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We had a long drive ahead: Soon we took off, driving down the winding road into the Walker River Basin.

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We stopped again on Monitor Pass to eat a snack and enjoy the Aspen trees.

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The terrain is generally extremely dry on the east side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Aspen groves are a sign that abundant moisture is near the surface of the soil.

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As much as it would have been nice to loiter we needed to get home.

We had a very enjoyable and successful trip despite the unsettled weather.


Until next time……
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on November 28, 2021, 10:17:27 AM
Very interesting trip you and your brother had, Robert. Are you allowed to camp where ever you want or are you obliged to use camping sites?

I wonder how this area looks in spring and early summer when the snow melts and everything is green! Only one of the species you showed is native here in Norway, Oxyria digyna. Here it is frequent on cool, moist sites high in the mountains. Some other species like Chaenactus douglasii, looked similar to species (Leucheria and Perezia) I observed in Patagonia.

Here everything is soaked after a record breaking wet October and November. several days I got >50mm/2'' in my garden and only a couple days have been without precipitation. Yesterday the temperature dropped 10C/18F and we got 1'' of snow.

Oxyria digyna

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Leucheria sp

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Perezia cartamoides

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First snow of the season.

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Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on December 01, 2021, 10:45:28 PM
Trond,

If one is hiking in the wilderness, in most instances, it is okay to camp for the night almost anywhere. In other parts of the Sierra Nevada Mountains there are designated camping sites and these must be used. In a few instances it is okay to camp anywhere, but fortunately this is rare: In the USA automobile campers are very hard on the natural environment. It is best that USA automobile campers must use designated camping sites.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Hoy on December 03, 2021, 04:35:44 PM
Robert,

Yes of course, it is best that automobile (we call them bobil "living-car") campers use sites the sites intended for them, but I was more thinking of tenting.

Here I can put up a tent wherever I want except on cropland and in gardens but it has to be at least 200m away from a house.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on December 03, 2021, 08:30:33 PM
Here in California what applies to automobiles also applies to tenting. One cannot camp anywhere with a tent except for wilderness areas (with a few exceptions). In California even tent campers are now very disrespectful of private property. This was not always the case, but things have changed.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: cohan on December 27, 2021, 07:40:46 PM
Lots of great plants up there, fun to see at any season, but spring must be nice for sure- though I imagine that is tricky as some areas would be in full growth with others under snow, still.
Title: Re: Robert's Crystal Range Project - Year 3, 2021
Post by: Robert on December 28, 2021, 07:58:25 PM
Cohan,

I rarely get down to Sonora Pass these days. Yes, the wildflowers put on a tremendous show in the spring. And, yes the winter snow can be extremely deep and linger for months on the north facing slopes. The snowmelt species are quite interesting and are of a little different mix than those that I routinely see in the Crystal Range.
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