DuneQuest Abstracts

Jim Blecha and Dave Innis

Title
Dune Fauna, What We Know and Don’t Know

Abstract:
The wide variety of habitats within the Guadalupe-Nipomo dune complex, ranging from beach-wrack littered supratidal zone to Eucalyptus woodlands of Black Lake Canyon, and including various wetland types and riparian areas, harbor a rich fauna. A comprehensive survey of these habitats throughout the dune system as a whole is lacking however. Most faunal studies have focused on one group of animals in a limited area or on faunal assemblages in a particular portion of the dunes. This study is an attempt to establish the fauna known to be present in the Guadalupe-Nipomo dune system.

Wayne Vogler and Cindy Cleveland

Title
Where to Find Water in the Dunes

Abstract:
Wetland habitats throughout the dunes have been recognized, yet there has been no orchestrated delineation or inventory effort. This study identifies biologically functional wetland habitats. Data are collected and organized in a manner easily available for future studies. Data are input into the master GIS database for the greater Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes. Speakers will relate their findings of the types of dune wetlands encountered, the hydrologic regime of those wetlands, and provide a brief introduction of the available data from this study.

Melissa Boggs-Blalack and Judd Muskat

Title
Oil Spill Investigation & Response in California

Abstract:
The Office of Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR) is within the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG). DFG is the lead State agency charged with responding to off-highway oil and hazardous material spills in California and is a Trustee Agency for the State’s fish and wildlife. The OSPR Administrator has substantial authority to direct spill response, cleanup, and natural resource damage assessment activities. As such, OSPR has developed a team of experts to respond quickly to minimize impacts to wildlife and the habitat. OSPR uses the latest technologies to identify source of spills when unknown. OSPR has the best wildlife response capabilities in the world. OSPR staff work with other Trustee Agencies on restoration projects following spills to restore impacted resources.

Jodi Isaacs - Facilitator

Title
Watershed Management in and around the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes

Abstract:
Panelists will discuss local watershed issues and projects pertaining to the Guadalupe-Nipomo dunes. Representatives from the Regional Water Quality Board, Resource Conservation District, Watershed coordinator for southern San Luis Obispo County, and non-profit groups will give specific details of their efforts to improve water quality and watershed health through monitoring, land management changes, and public education and outreach.

Willie Richerson

Title
Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve Access Improvements

Abstract:
Beginning with 69 acres in 1969 Rancho Guadalupe Dunes has been the primary beach access point for the entire SM Valley, expanding to 600 acres in 1988 the use levels steadily rose. In the mid 1990’s the County identified the need for improved parking and day use features, and a need to move the parking area back from the rising ocean waters. In April construction was completed, and the newly installed parking, picnic area, vault toilet, and sidewalk are meant to compliment the parks features while providing visitors with the basic services to enjoy nature at its finest. Today, people from around the world stumble upon this isolated beach and marvel at its pristine dunes and the solitude which can be found. This presentation will take you through a brief history of the park, show you some of the future plans, and invite you to explore this newly improved gem along the southern edge of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes.

Chris Barr

Title
Partnerships in Western snowy plover monitoring and management

Abstract:
The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge has been working in partnership with other land managers since it’s establishment in 2000. The work being done together has allowed for better management on local beaches for shorebirds and improved communication across various federal, state, and county properties. The ability to work together with limited funds and resources has been key to improving efforts to protect coastal resource and provide recreational opportunities for the public.