The Maritime Succulent Scrub [MSS] plant community in Northwest Baja California defines the southern end of the California Floristic Province. In addition to containing many familiar California native plants found around the Los Angeles Basin, the MSS also hosts a number of endemic species. The speakers will take us on a journey through this botanically rich area, including a look at its geology and fauna, all through the lens of Terra Peninsular’s two natural reserves. Copies of their new book, Plant Guide: Maritime Succulent Scrub Region, Northwest Baja California, Mexico, will be for sale.
Jim Riley is the founder of the San Mateo Creek Conservancy and is acting manager of Reserva Natural Valle Tranquilo, where he has spent the last three years coordinating biodiversity assessments and developing a plant checklist for the Tranquilo region. Jim came to botany after retiring from the world of business and investments and has now dedicated himself to conservation of pristine landscapes in Baja California.
Sula Vanderplank, Ph.D., is a conservation scientist who works as a Biodiversity Explorer for the Botanical Research Institute of Texas, and serves as Science Advisor for Terra Peninsular, AC. She received her Ph.D. from the University of California, Riverside, and is a research associate at the San Diego Natural History Museum. She has spent the last 10 years studying the flora of NW Baja California, where her favorite habitat is maritime succulent scrub. She wrote her masters thesis on the flora of San Quintin and later authored the regional field guide, Quail-friendly Plants of Baja California.
This event is free to SCHS members and $5 for non-members. Ample onsite free parking is available.