CNLM Hosts Wildlife Agency Staff at the Illa M. Collin Conservation Preserve

The Illa M. Collin Conservation Preserve (previously known as the “Mather” vernal pool preserve) in Sacramento County, California, is a mecca for those in search of vibrant vernal pool landscapes. As such, it is no surprise that when the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) was looking for opportunities to discuss vernal pool management and monitoring, they reached out to staff at the Center for Natural Lands Management (CNLM). As the manager for this Preserve and protector (through a conservation easement) of its conservation values, in partnership with the landowner (the County of Sacramento, represented by Regional Parks), CNLM staff were happy to assist. Two such CDFW events were held this spring at the Preserve.

CDFW Staff examine vernal pool plant species (Photo credit: CNLM March 7, 2024)

On March 7, 2024, CNLM Regional Preserve Manager Cathy Little participated in leading a training for CDFW staff. It was a beautiful, sunny day and the pools were full of water. Discussions centered around preserve management, survey protocols, and general conservation of listed species; but folks were mainly excited to see the creatures that live inside these pools, including the federally endangered vernal pool tadpole shrimp (Lepidurus packardi). With nets in hand, CDFW staff gained experience in capturing these critters and viewing them in buckets. Cathy, who holds a US Fish and Wildlife permit to conduct monitoring of these species, pointed out each of the species and explained the monitoring that she and other CNLM staff conduct annually at the Preserve.

On April 29, 2024, CNLM Preserve Manager Erik Gantenbein led a tour at the Preserve for staff from the Landscape Conservation Planning Program, which is part of the

CDFW Staff examine vernal pool plant species (Photo credit: CNLM April 29, 2024)

Habitat Conservation Planning Branch at CDFW. Erik provided a brief introduction to the Preserve, beginning with the transfer of the decommissioned Mather Air Force Base to Sacramento County and the protection of the Preserve through a conservation easement and deed restriction. The group walked to several vernal pools which were in full bloom and CNLM staff shared the goals and objectives of Preserve management which is guided currently by the 2014 Wetlands Management Plan. Discussion topics included the various stewardship strategies and tools CNLM uses to control invasive species, reduce residual thatch accumulation, and promote native biodiversity. Questions focused on adaptive management strategies and monitoring methods implemented by CNLM.