2024-03-29T12:41:27Z
http://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/do/oai/
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1000
2020-02-03T22:29:46Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Organic Carbon Content in Surface and Subsurface Soil on a Toposequence on the Peterson Ranch in Poly Canyon, San Luis Obispo
Nall, Renee Michelle
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2009-12-01T08:00:00Z
Lynn Moody; College of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences; Earth and Soil Sciences
Other Life Sciences
Organic carbon
Soil organic carbon
rangeland
SOC
nitrogen
<p>Soil organic carbon (SOC) is directly related to soil organic matter (SOM), and is important in the functionality and stability of terrestrial ecosystems. Soil organic carbon is also an important pool for C storage and small changes of SOC may cause significant gains and losses in the large scale carbon cycle. The mechanisms by which SOC is transported and stored however are not widely studied. This study was conducted to determine if there is a relationship between toposequence and SOC in a small watershed on the Peterson Ranch, San Luis Obispo, CA. Nine soil pits were dug on various hillslope positions. The soils were described, and samples were taken from the surface and subsurface based on the soil descriptions. The sampled were run in a C and N analyzer for the C and N content and C/N ratio. The SOC increased from bottom to top of the sampling sites in contrast to previous research. A relationship between toposequence and SOC does not seem to exist in this watershed. The SOC is more related to the clay content. The N followed a very similar trend to that of the SOC. Animal burrowing has contributed to the subsurface SOC.</p>
2009-12-04T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/1
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1000
2020-06-25T19:04:42Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
Development of Regional Hydraulic Geometry Curves for the Santa Cruz Mountains
Howell, Sarah
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2009-12-01T08:00:00Z
Brian Dietterick
Natural Resources and Conservation
watershed
drainage
bankfull
restoration
culverts
spr_stu
<p>This study was conducted to develop regional hydraulic geometry curves for the Santa Cruz Mountains that could be used in stream related and/or engineering projects. Data used to form these curves was collected from the USGS and by conducting stream geometry surveys. The resulting regional curves had high R² values ranging from .82 to .92. Compared to other regional curves in nearby areas, the Santa Cruz Mountains regional curve equations have higher exponents, meaning bankfull channel measurements increase at faster rates as drainage areas increases. Further measurements and analysis should be done before applying these curves to project sites.</p>
2009-12-07T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/1
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1001
2010-01-21T18:30:09Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Land Rehabilitation of Construction Damaged Parcel at Santa Fe Road and Hoover Avenue in San Luis Obispo, California
West, Patience J.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2009-06-01T07:00:00Z
Lynn Moody
Natural Resources and Conservation
Other Earth Sciences
Sustainability
Land Rehabilition
Native plants
constructed wetland
A plan for the rehabilitation of a construction damaged parcel of land with constructed swale running through it using native plants.
2009-12-08T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/4
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1002
2009-12-14T20:05:07Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Creation of Soil Liquefaction Susceptibility Maps for San Luis Obispo & Marin Counties using Geographic Information Systems.
Lowman, Amelia M
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2009-12-01T08:00:00Z
Lynn Moody
Earth Sciences
Geographic Information Sciences
Geology
Geographic Information System
Liquefaction
GIS
Liquefaction of soils in response to earthquake shaking is a pressing issue in the state of California. Using Geographic Information Systems, Geological and lithology layers, along with criteria in order to separate out the data into four risk categories, a liquefaction risk assessment map was created for San Luis Obispo and Marin Counties. The accuracy of these maps was then assessed using liquefaction occurrences for San Luis Obispo County, and it was determined that while the map is somewhat accurate, in order to obtain a greater amount of accuracy and increase the usefulness of these maps, more data would need to be obtained, analyzed, and included in each of the County Map Layers.
2009-12-09T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/2
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1003
2009-12-16T00:05:43Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Social Behaviors of Modern and Indigenous Peoples Impacting the Ecology of the Amazon Rain Forest in Brazil
Schaffer, Josef W
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2009-12-01T08:00:00Z
William Preston
Environmental Indicators and Impact Assessment
Nature and Society Relations
Social and Cultural Anthropology
Ecology
Amazon
Brazil
Impact
Behavior
Forest
Human induced disruption of the environment is prevalent in every culture. In Brazil, the effects of massive deforestation have become apparent since the nineteen eighties. However, along with deforestation, and a coinciding loss in an economic resource for the country, is a significant loss of natural habitat and species extinction. The Amazon in Brazil contains a large proportion of the world’s species diversity that is threatened by the socio-economic activities of modern Brazilian culture. Historically and presently, indigenous groups have contributed to insignificant levels of ecological disruption and are themselves threatened by the activities of modern Brazilians. The effects of ecological disruption range from shifting climate patterns, degradation of soils, loss of floral and faunal species, displacement of indigenous cultures, and the loss of many unknown resources. The preservation of this unique environment is vital to the continued viability of the region.
2009-12-14T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/3
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1004
2010-03-18T22:33:43Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Detrital Zircon Geochronology for Neoproterozoic to Cambrian Sediment Sources of the Deep Creek Range and the Pilot Range in the Southwestern United States
Perry, Kaysea
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2010-03-01T08:00:00Z
Scott Johnston
Geochemistry
Geology
Geophysics and Seismology
Mineral Physics
Tectonics and Structure
detrital zircon
miogeocline
Deep Creek
Detrital zircon studies of miogeoclinal sediments can help provide a deeper look into the mechanisms leading to continental breakup by studying the evolution of the continental margin of North America. Few detrital zircon studies have been conducted to support previous research and theories about the sedimentation of the Miogeocline from the Neoproterozoic to the Cambrian. Studies targeted at the Basin and Range province of the western United States show a trend of increasing local sediment sources. We analyzed detrital zircons from the Pilot and Deep Creek Ranges in Nevada and Utah via LA-MC-ICP-MS at the University of Arizona LaserChron Center with the hope of better understanding miogeoclinal provenance patterns and deformation during the early history of the North American continental margin. Our results indicate age peaks at 1.0–1.2 Ga, ~1.4 Ga, with increasing 1.6–1.8 Ga grains in the McCoy Creek Group. The Prospect Mountain Quartzite contains mainly 1.6–1.8 Ga zircons in the Pilot Range, and mainly 1.44 Ga and 1.72 Ga zircons in the Deep Creek Range. The Busby Group in the Deep Creek Range is dominated by 1.6–1.8 Ga zircons. Zircons from the McCoy Creek Group are consistent with distal sediment sources from the eastern margin of North America, including Grenvillian and Granite-Rhyolite terranes. Zircons from the Prospect Mountain Quartzite and the Busby Group are derived from more local terranes, including the Mojave, Mazatzal, and Yavapi. Although there are many possibilities to explain the change in sedimentary sources, we favor on the emergence of the Tooele-Uinta Arch and shallow marine transgressions. The Tooele-Uinta Arch may have created a point source for local deposition to the Deep Creek and Pilot Ranges. Shallow marine transgressions to the inner North American continent may have blocked sediment from the east coast from reaching the miogeocline.
2010-03-16T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/5
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1005
2010-05-26T16:45:37Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
adaptiveARC and the Future of the Energy Industry
Chase, Trevor
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2010-04-01T07:00:00Z
William Preston
Earth Sciences
Environmental Chemistry
Environmental Health
Environmental Sciences
Sustainability
2010-05-14T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/7
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1006
2010-05-20T21:49:55Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Management and Control Plan for Zinfandel Vines in South Paso Robles, CA.
Campbell, Tanner E.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Thomas Rice
Soil Science
Soil
Zinfandel
Vineyard
Management Plan
Control Plan
Zinfandel, also known as Zin, is a red skinned variety of wine grape very popular in California. The wines produced from Zinfandel grapes have an intense fruitiness and luscious texture. Production is extremely variable throughout California and is dependent upon, climate, soil fertility, crop level management practices, and irrigation. This study was conducted to determine the on site soil physical and chemical properties as a means to obtain optimal yields and fruit quality. The A & L Western Agriculture Laboratories performed comprehensive fertility analysis to determine the concentrations of the plant essential nutrients, organic matter, electrical conductivity, cation exchange capacity, and pH in the soils. This site has experienced considerable soil disturbance during the rainy seasons due to the erosion of the Salinas River bank bordering the eastern side of the site as well as the non-vegetative ground to the north. Unfortunately, bare soil is highly susceptible to erosive losses. Valuable topsoil can be lost and areas can be deeply cut by gully erosion during the rainy season. The best erosion treatment is to take prevention measures. Therefore, it is recommended that any areas with bare soil be vegetated before next winter’s rainy season. Irrigation rates should be adjusted throughout the year in accordance with annual precipitation, average wind speeds, average temperature, and the evapotranspiration rate. Special considerations should be made where irrigation water could run off a steep slope. On these sites vegetation must be established, and measures taken to offset sediment loss due to erosion. Zinfandel vines appear to be sensitive to a variation in soil classifications and the effect of the loss of topsoil. With an improvement in land use management this specific site shows considerable potential to be a long term winemaking site.
2010-05-20T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/6
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1007
2020-01-13T20:24:06Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
A Study of Soil Development on Marine and Stream Terraces of Swanton Pacific Ranch, Davenport, CA
Widrig, Genevieve M
Johnson, Kristine W
Tornincasa, Anna E
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Thomas Rice
Soil Science
Swanton Pacific Ranch
Soil Survey
Marine Terrace
spr_stu
2010-06-02T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/8
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1008
2010-07-01T23:03:27Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Urban Heat Island Expansion in the Greater Las Vegas Metropolitan Area
Remar, Alex
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
William Preston
Climate
Meteorology
Urban Heat Island
Las Vegas
Climate Change
Urbanization
The growth of human settlements into vast urban metropolitan areas is often accompanied by relatively higher temperatures in comparison with surrounding rural countrysides, a phenomenon known as the “urban heat island effect.” The city of Las Vegas has been selected as an examination of this trend because of its unprecedented urban growth in the last 50 years, which has been mapped by satellite imagery for several decades. Studying the growth of Las Vegas’ relatively new heat island can provide valuable insight into the causes and magnitude of all urban heat islands in general.
In this investigation, a series of temperature records were collected between the years 1973 and 2009 from two weather stations: one located in an urban area and the other located in a nearby rural area. The records from these weather stations were used to construct tables and figures in order to directly and effectively compare Las Vegas’ urban and rural climates. Analysis shows that the minimum temperatures in Las Vegas’ urban areas have been increasing at significantly higher rates than surrounding rural minimum temperatures. This trend has been especially pronounced since the early 1990’s, when the urban weather station used in this analysis became entirely surrounded by urban features. A comparative analysis of Las Vegas’ rural and urban temperature data produces statistically significant evidence for the presence of an urban heat island effect in the area.
2010-06-08T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/9
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1009
2010-07-01T23:26:20Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
The Influence of Vegetation and Landscape Position on Soil Temperature Change in a Sagebrush-Steppe Eastern Sierra Environment: Implications on Soil Taxonomy
Lurie, Nathan Michael
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Chip Appel
Environmental Monitoring
Soil Science
Soil temperature
temperature change
soil taxonomy
Sagebrush Steppe
Soil temperature is a parameter that has been studied for a considerable time and from many different perspectives. However, relatively few studies have been conducted for taxonomic purposes and fewer still have focused on how changes in soil temperature related to global climate change may affect soil taxonomy. Soil temperature regimes are used to subdivide soils with similar properties that exist in dissimilar climate zones requiring different management practices depending on intended use. Seven sites with variable surficial features were used for this study within a cohesive sagebrush-steppe Eastern Sierra glacial moraine landform. Soil temperature was measured once a month for ten years, 50 cm below the soil surface. Vegetation density and subsequent plant litter on the soil surface were the most important factors controlling soil temperature and its annual and long term stability. Landscape position and slope shape also affected soil temperature, but may be primary factors determining vegetation type and vigor within a landform. Three of the seven sites had different temperature regimes, based on the ten-year average temperatures measured 50 cm below the soil surface, than was estimated by climate data at the beginning of the study. Typically, soil temperature is estimated by adding 1° C to the mean annual air temperature. The data collected in this study suggest the methods by which we measure and use soil temperature to classify soils are less than precise and should only be used as a secondary characteristic for distinction of soils within a survey area.
2010-06-10T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/10
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1010
2010-07-01T23:29:31Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Analysis of anthropogenic effects on topsoil throughout the California Polytechnic State University campus in San Luis Obispo
Hamilton, Brooke L.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Thomas Rice
Environmental Health
Toxicology
soil
compaction
human impact
Soils reflect the health of a landscape, and in many cases carry the burden of anthropogenic activity, continually changing in characteristics such as pH, soil texture, soil structure, carbon:nitrogen ratios (C:N), and chemical composition. In a study sampling six different soils on the California Polytechnic State University campus in San Luis Obispo, these five soil characteristics were tested for and the results were determined. Soil samples consist of the top 5-10 cm of soil profiles, with sample sites varying according to degree of human contact; the locations the samples were taken from are as follows: (1) Walters Creek Ranch pasture, which is situated on Highway 1 across from Cuesta College; (2) the wooded area next to the Cal Poly “P”; (3) the footpath/bike path going to and from Cal Poly campus and the Poly Canyon Village student housing development; (4) the pre-dug soil pits on the hillside, adjacent to the “P” (periodically used for soil science and soil morphology courses); (5) the bike path behind the parking structure on Grand Avenue next to the Performing Arts Center; (6) the footpath in the parking lot behind the red brick dormitories.
2010-06-14T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/11
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1001
2020-05-19T23:14:55Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Mill Creek Management Plan
Gentry, Joey A
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2010-01-01T08:00:00Z
Walter Mark, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
Forest Biology
Forest Management
Other Forestry and Forest Sciences
MANAGEMENT
PLAN
SITE
INVENTORY
MAPS
GOOGLE
<p>The goal of this study is to conduct a management plan for the Mill Creek property. This will be obtained through meeting the landowner objectives concerning: wildlife with habitat enhancements, recreation locations, and the forest growth potential pertaining to different areas of the property. This plan will also offer suggestions and guidelines to maximize the use of the property. Including a collection of flora, fauna, and health related issues in the appendices for identification. The site condition on the property is very poor, and as a result the growth rate for this area is slow. It is recommended that the property be managed solely for recreation and wildlife.</p>
2010-06-16T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/2
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1011
2010-07-01T23:32:31Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Environmental Impacts of Human Activity Associated With Geocaching
Patubo, Brendon G
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Gregory Bohr
geocaching
GPS
human impact
recreational ecology
ecotourism
Geocaching, a high-tech treasure hunt that couples using handheld global positioning system (GPS) devices with hiking, is becoming an increasingly popular outdoor activity, drawing a wide-range of participants from all age groups. Because the activity is largely participant-created and run, there is little oversight for how geocaching is monitored and controlled, including environments like open spaces and along hiking trails. Many participant-created caches are placed off-trail, and often enough, in environmentally-sensitive areas. This paper begins with the development of geocaching through the advent of GPS and discusses past research involving recreational ecology and environmental impact. From the insight from these related reports, guidelines for participating in the activity of geocaching are developed, for cache placers and cache seekers alike.
2010-06-22T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/12
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1012
2010-07-01T23:36:05Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Measurement and Interpolation of Sea Surface Temperature and Salinity in the Tropical Pacific: A 9,000 Nautical Mile Research Odyssey
Brooks, Amber
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Gregory Bohr
Atmospheric Sciences
Climate
Databases and Information Systems
Environmental Monitoring
Oceanography
Other Computer Sciences
Other Earth Sciences
Other Oceanography and Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
Geographic Information Systems
Pacific
Inverse Distance Weighting
Spline
Sea Surface Temperature
Salinity
The purpose of this project was to compare spline and inverse distance weighting interpolation tools on data collected in the tropical Pacific Ocean by ship and data from a global network of CTD floats, known as Argo floats (fig.1), to provide evidence that technological advancement and integration is aiding our understanding of the ocean-atmosphere system of planet Earth. Thirty-one sea surface temperature and salinity samples were manually taken across a 9,000 nautical mile trek of the Pacific Ocean for the months of April, May and June 2008. Argo ASCII globally gridded monthly averaged sea surface temperature and salinity data, from conductivity, temperature and density floats was downloaded and converted into a form projectable in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The two types of data, for the same time frame, were used to evaluate raster tools: inverse distance weighting and spline. The study concluded that the two interpolation methods yield the same correlation and are not significantly different. Most of all, this study is a prime example that cutting-edge technology is now consistent in differing methods, our knowledge can keep pace with global climate change through these technologies and that the ocean-atmosphere system is highly complex.
2010-06-26T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/13
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1013
2010-08-12T15:29:39Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Fragaria species grown in a Greenhouse Cropping System chemigated by Phosfite® and Bacillus® in subsidence of Phytophthora fragariae and Verticillium dahliae
Morgan, Russell L.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Terry Smith
Botany
Horticulture
Plant Pathology
Soil Science
fragariae
Phytophthora fragariae
verticillium dahliae
Soil
Pathology
Science
Strawberry yields depend directly on infestation of Phytophthora fragariae and Verticillium dahliae in correspondance to the use of Phosfite and Bacillus. The objective is to find understanding of newly administered techniques in prevention of Phytophthora fragariae and Verticillium dahliae and prohibiting the use of Methyl Bromide. Application of Phosfite and Bacillus on patented Fragariae species to identify utilization of P and ZN forms and their aid in prevention of Phytophthora and Verticillium species. In the Plots on the western bench the developmental symptoms of PRR disease were absent within all infested soil containers containing the FHS-1 crop. In the plots on the eastern bench the developmental symptoms of VVD was present among a select few plants within the study and caused necrosis and death to one plant within this particular study, Can # 95 a container confirmed to have residual V. dahliae fungus. Our results demonstrated that the suppressive effect of Phosphite against PRR in the FHS-1 was not evident in the study. Throughout the experiment large quantities of strawberries showed imperfect shape and structure due to unsatisfactory incomplete pollination by greenhouse bees. Overall fruit quality was satisfactory. Throughout the study The UTC, and the strawberries tested with Phosfite had no evidence of any disease symptoms present. Adding gypsum to the soil helped aid in water penetration solving the irrigation problem and could have been the catalyst in suppressing the PRR disease as correlated in previous studies found on riddance of Phytophthora Cinamoni in Avocado Orchards. In future studies plant leaf analysis in comparison of P and Zn species will be conducted to monitor a closer balance among the treatments used. Phosphoric Acid solutions will be provided to study at specific concentrations (ppm).
2010-07-29T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/14
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1014
2010-08-23T15:51:02Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Soil Infiltration Study: Measuring the Difference in Leachate Quality Between Surface Compost Application and Incorporated Compost Application
Gallo, Christopher
Roberts, Kristin
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2010-06-01T07:00:00Z
Brent Hallock
Other Earth Sciences
Soil Science
compost
infiltration
leaching
soil
nitrate
2010-08-12T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/15
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1016
2011-05-17T00:02:10Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Earth Science for Secondary Schools: Earth Science Teaching Curriculum
DeVries, Chelsea
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2010-12-01T08:00:00Z
Brent Hallock
Curriculum and Instruction
Earth Science Curriculum
Universe
Biodiversity
Rocks and mineralsIntroduction to soils
geography
<p>Creating this senior project, based on secondary Earth Science curriculum, will be directed toward teachers and will assist in lessons and instruction and reaching students at a deeper level. This Earth Science curriculum will challenge students and enlighten teachers. This curriculum will impact students in a way that they will never forget. After completing this course, the students will be knowledgeable and have a strong foundation in the fundamentals of Earth Science. Creating this curriculum will challenge students in subjects such as, the universe, biodiversity / conservation biology, introduction to soils, rocks and minerals, and the geography of California. The result of this project will inform high school students of the importance of knowing how the earth works and basic understanding of Earth systems.</p>
2011-12-02T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/18
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1017
2011-01-20T17:37:17Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Creation of a Revised Site Specific Liquefaction Potential Map Utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technology and ArcGIS® Software
Armstrong, Michael S
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2010-11-01T07:00:00Z
Lynn Moody
Soil Science
2011-01-11T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/16
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1002
2020-01-13T20:13:26Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
Evaluation and Utilization of the Continuous Forest Inventory System at Swanton Pacific Ranch
Ali, Dominic
Cody, Reid
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2011-01-01T08:00:00Z
Douglas Piirto
Forest Management
Other Forestry and Forest Sciences
Inventory
CFI
Swanton
Redwood
Forest
Database
spr_stu
<p>Five Continuous Forest Inventories (CFI) and one Senior Project Inventory (Piper et al. 1989) at Swanton Pacific Ranch in Davenport, CA were compiled and standardized to be formatted for input into Forest and Stand Evaluation Environment (FORSEE) growth and yield modeling software. Data from field books and Excel spreadsheets located on the Cal Poly Natural Resources Management Department hard drive was transcribed into a Microsoft Excel database. Data sources and authenticity were verified by cross-referencing plot data from multiple sources, associated senior project reports, and location on the Swanton grid system. An additional summary spreadsheet was made to help users select and establish confidence in the data. This project standardizes the Swanton timber inventory system creating a powerful CFI database to support future forest management decisions at Swanton Pacific Ranch.</p>
2011-02-27T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/3
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1018
2011-03-17T16:58:02Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Evidence of Tectonic Uplift along the Oceanic Fault near San Simeon, San Luis Obispo County, California
Gecy, George
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2011-03-01T08:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Earth Sciences
Geology
Geomorphology
Tectonics and Structure
<p>Post-Seismic satellite imagery after the 2003 earthquake near San Simeon confirmed 10s of millimeters of north-east side uplift along the Oceanic Fault. In order to determine whether or not there has been a history of tectonic uplift northeast of the Oceanic Fault zone, longitudinal profiles of Morro Creek and San Simeon were made using a digital planimeter and 1:24,000 scale maps. Utilizing the stream profiles, convexities could be observed in the streams coinciding where the streams crossed the Oceanic Fault; of the stream profiles, the convexity along San Simeon Creek could be confirmed to be caused by north-east side uplift along the Oceanic Fault.</p>
2011-03-14T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/17
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1003
2020-05-19T23:06:02Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Interpretive Programs for Natural Resource Interpretation at Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park, California
Glendenning, Shannon Brianne
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2010-03-01T08:00:00Z
James Vilkitis, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
Interpersonal and Small Group Communication
Other Environmental Sciences
Physical and Environmental Geography
Interpretive Park Ranger
Hikes
<p>This guide to Natural Resource Interpretation in the Glacier Point Region of Yosemite National Park, California was developed over three summers of research and implementation. The range of programs developed to inform the public about the regional and local natural resources are: formal, semi-formal, ranger led hikes and walks, activity based programs, and informal visitor contacts. The programs were designed to inform park visitors about the natural, social, and historical resources in the region. The overall objective is to connect the visitors with the marvels and wonders of the natural resources at Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park, California. This guide was developed not only as a guide to techniques used for informing park visitors but also for Interpretive Park Rangers who want to develop their own programs in the region or park.</p>
2011-05-05T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/4
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1020
2011-06-02T00:20:59Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
A Map of Relict Landscapes and Landslides: Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge, Kern County, California, USA
Lawson, Colin
McCracken, Jeanette
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2011-05-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Geomorphology
Incision
Uplift
Slope
Stereoscopy
Remote Sensing
Geographical Information Systems
<p>The San Andreas Fault Zone is a great location to conduct geomorphologic research, because of its recent history of tectonism and related surface uplift. In the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge - located in Kern, San Luis Obispo, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties – a map of relict landscapes and landslides was created. The map was created using a combination of techniques of air photo mapping and field mapping. A digital version of the map was created and used for further analysis of the relict landscapes and landslides. This research serves as reconnaissance for future research in this area, and shows how maps can be applied to analyze geomorphologic processes and hazards.</p>
2011-05-19T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/19
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1021
2011-07-13T22:36:29Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Soil Survey Report for Saucelito Canyon Vineyard Proposed Vineyard Site
Richardson, Thomas E.
Stirm, Ryan S.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2011-05-01T07:00:00Z
Thomas Rice
Earth Sciences
Soil Survey Saucelito Canyon Vineyard
<p><strong></strong>The Saucelito Canyon Vineyard ranch future vineyard site was investigated using eighteen (18) soil pits to document soil morphological properties including soil structure, color, depth, presence of carbonates, and soil chemical characteristics. Pits were also used to obtain soil samples that were delivered to A & L Western Agriculture Laboratories for further soil chemical analysis and to classify the soils. </p>
<p>This collective information was used to classify the soils into five (5) different soil series using Soil Taxonomy. The surface soil textures and slope phases for these soil series were then used to group similar soil types located throughout the vineyards into five (5) different soil map units. The map units were then mapped and delineated on aerial photographic base maps. </p>
<p>Digital soil maps were produced using ESRI software and computer hardware. The aerial photograph, used as a raster image for the digitizing and vector data for the series of maps created, was obtained from the San Luis Obispo County aerial files and the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was obtained from the city of San Luis Obispo’s county files. Soil map unit boundaries were digitized onto the aerial photograph by creating a polygon shapefile and using the editor tool to draw in the map units.</p>
2011-06-03T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/21
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1004
2020-05-19T23:20:01Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Creating an Environmental Education Program for Camp Fire USA
Diaz, Shannon
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2011-06-01T07:00:00Z
Scott Sink, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
Curriculum and Instruction
Education
Environmental Sciences
Natural Resources and Conservation
Sustainability
environmental education
lesson plans
environmental science
<p>The topic area for this Senior Project is Environmental Education. There were four environmental hands-on lesson plans that were created for the non-profit organization Camp Fire USA, Central Coast Council. These lessons will be implemented at Camp Natoma, the resident camp the Central Coast Council owns in Paso Robles, California. The lesson plans take up hour-long increments and have been created for youth ages eight through fifteen. The topics covered in the lessons include: composting; reduce, reuse, and recycle; solar energy; and wetlands. These lesson plans will be implemented as a new “Nature Class” that campers can choose to take this summer at camp and will be available for other staff members to facilitate with their camp groups throughout the week. This project will have many potential impacts including enhancing camper’s critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective decision-making skills. It can help to teach campers to make informed and responsible decisions by weighing different sides of an environmental issue and it can help to increase camper’s interest and motivation in preserving the environment for future generations.</p>
2011-06-03T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/5
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1006
2020-05-19T23:02:34Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
A SLO Landowners Guide to Natural Resource Regulations
Whyte, Rob S
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2011-06-01T07:00:00Z
James R. Vilkitis, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
Forest Sciences
Environmental Management
Natural Resources
<p>Many land owners today are simply unaware of the fact that their private land falls under not only local laws and regulations, but also several state and federal regulations. Unfortunately, this unawareness has often resulted in complete negligence to the land, further leading to the degradation of resources such as creeks and landscapes. “A SLO Land Owners Guide to Natural Resource Regulations” was created to provide the basic knowledge of the different regulations that govern landowners of San Luis Obispo County, with the intent to increase the compliance to the different laws and regulations.</p>
2011-06-09T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/6
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1022
2011-07-13T22:40:50Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Brizzolara Creek Revegetation & Restoration Plan
O'Meara, Cailin
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
2011-05-01T07:00:00Z
Chip Appel
Water Resource Management
Habitat restoration
streambank stabilization
Brizzolara Creek
<p><strong> </strong>In 2009, a portion of the Cal Poly Farm Shop was removed to create a stream bank supported by rip-rap facing for Brizzolara Creek. However, weed eradication and revegetation measures were necessary to fully restore the riparian corridor. The Brizzolara Creek Revegetation and Restoration plan was implemented in winter 2011. The plant palette was composed of early successional native species including <em>Salix lasiolepis, Salix laevigata, Populus balsamifera </em>spp. <em>trichocarpa, Rubus ursinus, Rhamnus californica, Baccharis pilularis, Sambucus mexicana, </em>and <em>Artemisia douglasiana.</em> A monitoring plan will evaluate the relative success of this project in Spring 2014. The final success criteria for this project are 70% survivorship. However, adaptive management techniques may be used to accomplish the long-term objectives of this project, which are to establish native plant cover, provide wildlife habitat, improve water quality, and encourage the natural recruitment of native species.</p>
2011-06-09T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/22
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1023
2012-10-16T00:00:50Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Soil Development Processes on the Western Slope of the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains: a Geographic Study
Osterloh, Kristopher (Kris)
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2011-06-01T07:00:00Z
William Preston
Earth Sciences
Physical and Environmental Geography
2011-06-10T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/20
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1007
2020-05-19T23:10:20Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Rangeland Oak Regeneration, Rehabilitation, and Conservation in Varian Ranch, Arroyo Grande, CA.
Lappinga, Tiffany
Ku, Ivy
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2011-06-01T07:00:00Z
Walter Mark, College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
Forest Management
Arroyo Grande Oak Woodland Rangeland California
<p>Since the majority of oak woodlands are currently under private management, it is important to educate landowners about the importance and value of preserving this unique type of forest, especially in California. The study region takes place in Varian Ranch, Arroyo Grande, California. This project aims to promote the health of rangeland oaks with a three-pronged approach: regeneration, rehabilitation, and conservation. Common issues associated with the decline of oaks include, but are not limited to, invasive/exotic plant species, changes in land use, overgrazing, and soil compaction. This project hopes to address some of these issues, as well as revitalize previous efforts by adjusting existing cages, adding new cages to seedlings, increasing community outreach, and sparking collaboration among students and residents in order to continue stewardship efforts.</p>
2011-06-13T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/7
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1008
2011-10-13T20:48:35Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Camera Study for Mammalian Carnivore Presence across Seasons in Montana de Oro State Park, San Luis Obispo County, CA
Young, Samuel R
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2011-06-01T07:00:00Z
John D. Perrine
Biology
Natural Resources and Conservation
camera study
carnivore
Montana de Oro
<p><strong>Montana de Oro (MDO) is one of the largest state parks in California. Little is known however about its wildlife or their habits. Large predators such as mountain lion (<em>Puma concolor</em>) and black bear (<em>Ursus americanus</em>), and non–native species such as red fox (<em>Vulpes vulpes</em>) and feral pig (<em>Sus scropha</em>) are of management concern because of their potentially dramatic ecological roles. Cameras were deployed at 5 sites along the Coon Creek hiking trail in spring (May 3–June 7), summer (July 15–August 19), and fall (October 10–November 23) sessions with the goal of collecting a minimum of 28 survey nights of data. From this data species richness, latency to first detection, and activity patterns were examined. Overall, 19 different species of terrestrial vertebrates were detected: 8 species of birds, 11 species of mammals, and 7 species of mammalian carnivores (including the Virginia opossum (<em>Didelphis virginiana</em>), an introduced marsupial). Mountain lion was the only species of management concern detected, and it was only detected once during the summer session. ANVOA testing found no significant difference in species richness between seasons (α=0.05, P>0.05). Latency to first detection was too variable for statistical analysis, and there was no apparent trend for seasonal effect within any species. Daily activity patterns were analyzed using a chi–squared goodness of fit test (α=0.05) for striped skunk (<em>Mephitis mephitis</em>) (Pspring=0.41, n=8), mule deer (<em>Odocoileus hemionus</em>) (Pfall=0.03, n=10), and gray fox (<em>Urocyon cinereoargenteus</em>) (Pspring=0.032, n=16; Psummer<0.001, n=89; Pfall<0.001, n=59). All tests yielding significant P–values also indicated a preference for crepuscular activity. Contingency table analysis indicated there was an interaction between time of day and season for gray fox (P<0.001), with the strongest effect in dawn and spring, and night and fall. This interaction is unexplained. Lack of detection of black bear, red fox, and feral pig suggest that they are not present within the Coon Creek watershed of MDO. Additional studies on a larger spatial scale are required to determine their status throughout the park. Mountain lion likewise require further study on a larger scale to determine how they are using MDO habitat.</strong></p>
2011-10-10T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/8
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1009
2012-12-18T18:52:55Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:socssp
publication:seniorprojects
Projected Consequences of Climate Change and Human Impact on Asia
Zepplin, Anna
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
1989-04-01T08:00:00Z
William Preston
Nature and Society Relations
Physical and Environmental Geography
Climate Change
China
Mongolia
Human Impact
<p>A look into human influence on climate change in Asia and how it will effect certain aspects of their economy.</p>
2012-10-24T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/27
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1010
2012-03-19T23:14:13Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Determining Slip Sense along the Sur-Nacimiento Fault through the use of Detrital Zircon Geochronology on the Nacimiento Block at Cerro Alto, California
Decker, Karen
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-03-01T08:00:00Z
Scott Johnston
geology
fault
zircon
geochronology
Sur-Nacimiento
Salinian
2012-03-14T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/9
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1011
2012-03-22T18:00:51Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Geologic Formation of the Nipomo-Guadalupe Dunes and Historic Background of the Preserve
Claassen, Mallory K.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-03-01T08:00:00Z
Lynn E. Moody
2012-03-16T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/10
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1012
2020-01-13T21:07:17Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
Post-Fire Near-Surface Runoff From Small-Scale Rainfall Simulations, Santa Cruz Mountains
Founds, Michael
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2011-10-01T07:00:00Z
Brent Hallock
Geology
Geomorphology
Hydrology
Soil Science
runoff
erosion
post-fire
rainfall simulation
santa cruz mountains
hydrophobicity
spr_stu
<p>The influence of environmental variables on the runoff response to a fire is poorly understood. Small-scale rainfall simulation was used to study the factors impacting near-surface runoff following the Lockheed Fire, which occurred on August 12, 2009. A variable speed rainfall simulator was used to rain on 15 different test plots at an average rate of 50mmh<sup>-1</sup>. Variables of burn severity, time following the fire, soil parent material, vegetation type, and presence of a duff layer were all analyzed using the ratio of runoff to rainfall. The difference in-between burned sites and similar control sites were 19±6%. Only sites with a high burn severity had a significantly different runoff than the control sites (p=.027). The sites burned at high severity had runoff to rainfall ratios that decreased an average of 39% between the original simulation three months after the fire and the second simulation ten months later. The knobcone pine and manzanita vegetation grouping, which also corresponded to a mudstone soil parent material, produced both the highest average runoff to rainfall ratios (52%) and had the highest variability after a fire. A confidence interval showed anywhere between -12% and 63% increase in runoff to rainfall ratio of the knobcone pine and manzanita vegetation grouping after a fire compared to 2% to 27% for redwood and Douglas fir dominated vegetation. Very high runoff rates following a fire were correlated to near surface water movement almost exclusively along the top 2 cm of mineral soil. The trends observed within this data should help to support and guide further research on post-fire runoff.</p>
2012-04-09T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/11
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1013
2012-06-04T23:55:14Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
A Discussion of Factors Involved in the Formation of Slab Avalanches and an Analysis of Avalanche Risk in The Sierra Nevada Mountains Using GIS
Howen, Kevin C.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
William Preston
Other Earth Sciences
Avalanche
GIS
Analysis
Mountain
Hazard
Map
<p>As winter recreational activities increase in mountainous environments, the need for a better understanding of snow avalanches is necessary. This project consists of a study into the physical factors that contribute to slab avalanche formation, and a GIS analysis of an avalanche prone area within the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The primary physical factors that contribute to the conditions that lead to avalanches include the slope of a mountain face, the aspect, and bare ground conditions lacking thick forest vegetation. ArcGIS is a powerful software tool that was used to map each of these factors, and then combine them to create a detailed digital map that displays avalanche hazard zones across the mountain slopes. The map and associated data may be used by administrators and planners for consideration in future development and recreational projects.</p>
2012-05-29T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/12
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1014
2012-06-04T23:58:33Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Environmental Justice: The Significance of Race and Class in Determining Areas of Environmental Pollution
Beckman, Kaylee
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-03-01T08:00:00Z
William Preston
Civil Law
Civil Rights and Discrimination
Ethnic Studies
Environmental injustice
environmental racism
minority
discrimination
oppression
environmental equality
2012-05-30T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/13
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1015
2012-08-08T16:31:34Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Aerial Reconnaissance of Stream Terraces and Landslides within Bitterwater Creek Watershed in Kern County, California
Smith, Zachary
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2011-05-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Geology
Geomorphology
Tectonics and Structure
Landslides
Stream Terraces
Aerial
Mapping
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/20
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1016
2012-06-14T18:39:07Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Wildland Urban Interface Assessment of San Luis Obispo, California
Hanson, Brian
Kadash, Stephen
Mackewicz, Nicholi
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
Christopher Dicus
Other Forestry and Forest Sciences
Fire
WUI
San Luis Obispo
wildland
<p>The purpose of this report is to provide a wildland fire hazard assessment of communities in the city of San Luis Obispo, California, and to identify prescriptions designed to prevent property damage and loss of life in the event of a wildfire. These prescriptions are adopted from established Shelter-In-Place communities who practice fire wise community wildfire prevention.There are eight communities that were identified as being fire prone. Each community had its own set of fire hazard, for example, flammable vegetation against a home, tall dead grass behind structures, or overhanging trees that would prevent an engine from passing. Once the problems were identified, prescriptions for each community were developed and should be followed to prevent any structure loss or life loss. Also provided in this report are vegetation maps of these communities, fire hazard severity zone maps, ingress and egress routes maps, flame length maps, and rate of spread maps. (All located in the Appendices). This report is to help prevent structures and residence from being affected from wildfires and to keep these communities safe.</p>
2012-06-04T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/16
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1017
2019-09-25T17:54:41Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
Soil Mapping on a Swanton Pacific Ranch Rangeland
Witman, Thomas N
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2012-01-01T08:00:00Z
Lynn Moody
Geology
Geomorphology
Soil Science
Swanton
Soil
Marine Terrace
Mudstone
spr_stu
<p>Knowledge of soils has become very important in most land based enterprises. The understanding of soils is necessary for all different types of land management projects. The USDA mapped all of the soils in the United States starting in the late 1950’s to provide the necessary information. However because the mappers often times had to map entire counties in short amounts of time ,did not have modern technology, and had rather a vague operating procedure, there was no way to be accurate on the small scaled. To solve this problem I evaluated Dr. Ron Taskey’s landscape hierarchy, a method that utilizes changes in landscape to make a clear system for creation of soil map units. This evaluation was tested by finding typical pedons for each of the landforms using the Keys to Soil Taxonomy. Once the typical pedons are matched to known soil series, the total areas were delineated, in part by a soil auger to find boundaries. After mapping the area, it was discovered that the landscape hierarchy was very accurate at creating the soil map unit boundaries, and though this was not its intention, it was able to predict in some on tens of acres scale soil boundaries, and even on a smaller it was still very accurate with a few misdiagnosed boundaries. Overall, the landscape hierarchy worked very well to get the general overview of the soil area and was able to create a clear system but it was still necessary to delineate the boundaries in the field.</p>
2012-06-06T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/17
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1018
2012-06-14T18:47:36Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
A Chemical and Morphological Study of Soils at the Cal Poly Vineyard
Dlott, Glade A.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2012-05-01T07:00:00Z
Thomas J. Rice
Soil Science
vineyard
viticulture
soil survey
soil-plant relations
erosion
plant-essential nutrients
<p>Despite cultivation for close to a decade, the soils at the Cal Poly vineyard have never been studied in detail. This study was designed to gain a better understanding of the soils for better management. Soil pits and auger holes were dug throughout the site to accurately classify soils. Soils were classified using USDA-NRCS Soil Taxonomy, and samples were taken from each horizon of each soil pit for chemical analysis. Four soil map units were delineated on the site. The pH, EC, total percent carbon and nitrogen, and plant available nitrate, sulfate, phosphate, base cations, and metal micronutrients of each soil sample were determined by laboratory analysis. Based on morphologic and physical data, management recommendations were made to improve soil quality at the vineyard. Issues with high historic erosion and nutrient imbalance caused by excessive magnesium were found and addressed.</p>
2012-06-07T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/18
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1020
2012-06-21T21:26:33Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Determining Ancient Movement of the Sur–Nacimiento Fault Zone Using Detrital Zircon Geochronology
Per Lee, Jennifer
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
Scott Johnston
Geology
Tectonics and Structure
Nacimiento block
Salinian block
Dutra Flats
paleogeology
Big Sur
California
<p>Middle Cretaceous movement along the Sur–Nacimiento Fault has implications for our understanding of how convergent tectonic margins evolve and for the architecture of forearc basins. Traditional explanations suggest an autochthonous California Mesozoic Forearc that underwent sinistral or thrust displacement; although recent research suggests either an allochthonous forearc or an isolated Nacimiento Block that experienced significant dextral displacement. Detrital zircons obtained from the Great Valley Group within the Nacimiento block provide age distribution patterns that can help identify sources of sediment deposition and therefore the past location of the Nacimiento block. Using U-Pb detrital zircon geochronology, we have discovered a dominance of miogeoclinal sources and a significant presence of Central American sources in our samples. This suggests that the Sur–Nacimiento Fault was either a sinistral or thrust fault that lead to autochthonous emplacement of the Nacimiento block or possibly a dextral strike-slip fault that brought the Nacimiento Block northward from Central America.</p>
2012-06-08T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/19
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1019
2012-06-14T18:32:28Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
A Study of Enhanced De-chlorination and Bio-Remediation: Molasses Injections into Groundwater
Anderson, Brent
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
Karen Vaughan
Earth Sciences
Environmental Sciences
Geochemistry
Other Earth Sciences
Soil Science
Soil
remediation
water
contaminants
2012-06-08T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/14
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1021
2012-06-14T18:35:16Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
An Education on Growing Water Scarcity and the Benefits of Domestic Greywater Recycling Systems
Cates, Patricia
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2012-05-01T07:00:00Z
Norman Pillsbury
Water Resource Management
Idaho
<p>Water scarcity is becoming an ever growing concern in the world today. Fresh potable water is a natural resource which is being used more rapidly than it is being replenished. A growing global population, agriculture, and industry have placed great demands on our water resources. There is a need to help conserve our planet’s fresh water reserves. A tremendous percentage of household drinking water in the United States is currently being used to flush toilets, water yards and wash laundry or dishes. A practice termed ‘greywater recycling’ allows a person to utilize slightly used water to irrigate landscapes and flush away waste. This practice began centuries ago in arid lands where water and rainfall were scarce. Greywater recycling in now being seen in certain areas of the United States, but there is a greater need for education on this topic. Homeowners will find that through greywater recycling, they can save money and fresh water resources simultaneously.</p>
2012-06-12T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/15
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1022
2012-08-22T00:04:16Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:biosp
publication:seniorprojects
Camera Survey of Wildlife Corridors Adjacent to Highway 101
Mannell, Grace K.
Rose, Chelsea E.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2012-02-01T08:00:00Z
John D. Perrine
Population Biology
cuesta grade
mountain lion
bear
deer
caltrans
roadkill
<p>Driving poses a significant threat to safety for both humans and wildlife. Along highway 101 in San Luis Obispo, California, is a stretch of roadway that is exceptionally deadly to mammals such as deer and bears. Roadkill counts and motion-activated cameras have been utilized along this route in a previous study (Perrine and Snyder, 2011) to assist Caltrans in setting up wildlife barriers. We sought to continue this research using remote motion-sensing cameras to monitor wildlife during winter and spring of 2011. We set up cameras at five previously monitored locations that had already been determined to host heavy wildlife traffic. Attention was focused on large mammals such as mule deer, black bear, and mountain lion, as these are most likely to cause a dangerous collision. We analyzed photographs to determine the number of detections, species richness and diversity, utilization intensity, and latency of detection at each station. We suggest that Caltrans construct appropriate fencing, jump-outs, and staggered road medians at four of our five stations due to their heavy deer traffic. We also suggest continued monitoring of camera stations and roadkills, to produce a comparison study evaluating the effectiveness of constructed road barriers.</p>
2012-08-19T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/21
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1023
2012-08-23T21:24:42Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
The Effects of Biochar Age and Concentration on Soil Retention of Phosphorus and Infiltration Rate
Schneider, Emilie
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
Ben Burgoa
Environmental Health and Protection
Environmental Indicators and Impact Assessment
Fresh Water Studies
Other Environmental Sciences
Soil Science
Water Resource Management
biochar
soil retention
phosphorus
infiltration
water quality
eutrophication
<p>Changes in land use and land management practices are regarded as one of the main factors in altering the hydrogeological system, causing changes in runoff, surface supply yields, and the quality of receiving water (Tong and Chen, 2002). Phosphorus is a significant contributor to accelerated eutrophication of fresh water and is largely sourced from agricultural runoff (Sharpley et al., 1994). The dominant processes controlling solution composition in agricultural soils are primarily ‘chemical’ for P (i.e. adsorption/desorption and dissolution/precipitation) (Edwards and Withers, 1998). Biochar has chemical characteristics that have the potential to adsorb P or influence precipitation of P insoluble pools (DeLuca et al., 2009). However, there is limited knowledge about changes in this behavior in soil over time. To determine the effects of biochar on P adsorption and percolation rate, soil columns containing a sandy loam were amended with 0, 1, 2, and 5% (wt/wt) biochar and incubated at field capacity for zero and nine months. Columns were leached with four pore volumes of a 5ppm P solution (Burgoa, 2011). Phosphorus concentration in the leachate was determined using an ICP-AES. Aging of biochar for nine months resulted in an insignificant increase of phosphorus retention in the soil columns. The highest increase in P retention was observed in the columns amended with 1% (wt/wt) biochar at time zero. Potential absorption capacity of biochar and other chemical influences that affect P in the soil environment seem to improve with time. Further aging of biochar would likely result in a significant increase in P adsorption capacity in soil, due to abundant transformations of surface chemistry and encouraged bond formations. Percolation rate was found to significantly increase with increased biochar addition and increased aging time had little effect. Increased concentration of Biochar amendment of soil may help mitigate the negative effects of agricultural land use and water quality of the nearby hydrogeological system.</p>
2012-08-22T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/22
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1024
2012-10-02T20:22:54Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Wildlife Camera Carnivore Survey: Santa Margarita Ranch, CA
McAdams, Christina
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2012-05-01T07:00:00Z
John Perrine
Biology
Cuddeback
Wildlife
Camera
Santa Margarita
LATO
<p>The Santa Margarita Wildlife Carnivore Survey was designed to study the diversity of wildlife of the Santa Margarita Ranch, and to provide an interface with the Learning Among the Oaks (LATO) outdoor education program. The study took place in the coastal range of California, United States, and was aimed at addressing species specific analysis including habitat utilization, latency to detection, and activity patterns. Target species included native carnivores (mountain lion, bobcats, coyotes) and nonnative species of management concern (feral pigs, red fox). Working nights and camera efficiency were also compared between camera models. Six Cuddeback cameras were deployed on Santa Margarita Ranch for a seven week study period from January 27th, 2012 to March 16th, 2012. Overall, 12 species of mammals and six species of birds were detected. Of the 12 mammal species, seven were carnivores (bobcat, coyote, red fox, mountain lion, opossum, raccoon, and striped skunk). The remaining five mammalian species were deer, feral pig, rabbit, grey squirrel and ground squirrel. Black bear and grey fox were not detected at all during the survey. The highest mammalian utilization intensity occurred at Site 3 from ground squirrel visits (15.37 visits per survey day), and the highest carnivore utilization intensity occurred at Site 2 from coyote visits (0.35 visits per survey day). Median carnivore latency periods ranged from 4.5 days (coyote) to 26 days (raccoon and mountain lion). Activity patterns were analyzed with a chi square goodness of fit test (α=0.05) for coyote, deer, feral pig, and ground squirrel. Coyote (p=0.68) and feral pig (p=0.60) showed no significant selection for activity during different times of the 24hr diel period. Deer (p=0.00089) were more active during dusk and less active during day than expected by chance. Ground squirrels (p=6.9x10198) showed selection toward activity during the day and avoidance of activity during night and dawn. Camera efficiency data indicated that the newer model Cuddeback Attack cameras were considerably more efficient (99.08% of images contained data) than the older model Excites (88.99% of images contained data). Excite models should be replaced for further study to increase camera efficiency and improve the chance of capturing individuals. Additionally, data should be collected yearround to obtain greater statistical power in analyzing data and to offer comparison across seasons.</p>
2012-10-02T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/23
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1025
2012-12-03T18:14:39Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Factors Influencing Landslides in the Bittercreek Wildlife Refuge
McEachern, David
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio F. Garcia
Geology
Geomorphology
landslide
bittercreek
refuge
2012-10-09T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/25
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1026
2019-06-12T17:27:42Z
publication:mathsp
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Modeling Glacial Termination
Murphy, Michael
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-06-01T07:00:00Z
Paul Choboter
Earth Sciences
Mathematics
Climate
Modeling
Ice age
MATLAB
Paleoclimate
Carbon dioxide
<p>Examines possible cause of the glacial termination or ice age cycle using a numerical model created by Tziperman et al. Also explores possible physical mechanisms causing the observed cycle of slow cooling followed by rapid warming.</p>
2012-11-10T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/24
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1027
2012-12-03T18:17:01Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Geochemistry and geochronology of the Central Metasedimentary Belt boundary thrust zone thrust sheets in Southern Ontario, Grenville Province
Agustsson, Kenjo
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-11-01T07:00:00Z
Scott Johnston
Geology
zircon geochronology
Grenville Province
trace element geochemistry
Dysart thrust sheet
<p>Studies of pre-Grenvillian (1.4–1.3 Ga) plutons offer insight into the dynamics of arc amalgamation and backarc rifting prior to continental collision in the Ottawan orogeny. The Central Metasedimentary Belt boundary thrust zone (CMBbtz) is a northeast–southwest trending thrust zone consisting of metaplutonic thrust sheets enveloped in gneissic tectonites and calcitic– dolomitic marbles. Tonalitic CMBbtz thrust sheets (Dysart and Redstone) are made up of upper amphibolite-facies, foliation-concordant metatonalites (+ amphibole ± biotite ± accessory zircon and titanite) and amphibolites (± biotite ± clinopyroxene), and are located in the southern Ontario Grenville Province. These thrust sheets are thought to have formed and amalgamated onto the Laurentian margin prior to Ottawan orogeny. Major and trace element analysis show the metatonalites have calc-alkaline affinity and amphibolites have both calc-alkaline and tholeiitic affinities suggesting a continental arc environment. Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) geochronology of zircon from the two thrust sheets yield igneous ages of ca. 1350–1300 Ma, Dysart amphibolites yield a 1086 Ma Ottawan metamorphic age, and Dysart tonalites record metamorphic zircon growth at ca. 1150–1100 Ma. This last metamorphic event has not been documented in the CMBbtz, but correlates well with thermal events in the allochthonous Parry Sound domain to the west, as do ca. 1350 Ma igneous ages of tonalities in both areas. These data support the hypothesis that the CMBbtz and Parry Sound domain may have been initially linked. Widespread ca. 1350 Ma crust along with distinct 1460– 1400 Ma TDM model ages is consistent with a shared genesis of the Dysart–Mount Holly suite in New York and Vermont, and support the correlation between the CMBbtz thrust sheets and the Adirondack Highlands–Mount Holly belt as a rifted continental arc.</p>
2012-11-16T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/26
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1028
2013-02-06T16:39:19Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Climate Change and the Water Crisis in Israel
Deutsch, Lauren
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2012-11-01T07:00:00Z
William Preston
Climate
Environmental Sciences
Fresh Water Studies
Geography
Natural Resources and Conservation
Oceanography and Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
Sustainability
Water Resource Management
Water resources in Israel
Israel's water crisis
Southwest Asia
Israeli and Palestinian Conflict
Climate Change
Freshwater resources
<p>Israel’s water crisis is controlled by the availability and location of water resources that are affected by climate change and geopolitics in southwest Asia. Conflict between Israel and the Palestinian occupied territories in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank have put strains on the allocation of water recourses. The goal of this research was to model how much a change in climate will affect the amount of available freshwater in Israel. Intensive research taken from Israel and the occupied territories was carried out to understand how the amount of precipitation, rainfall, and the rate of evaporation is affected by climate changes that causes a disturbance in water supply and water quality. Also, the impacts of geopolitical tension with Palestinians as well as land use behaviors were heavily researched to understand their effect on water resources. Compared to the current climate and water conditions, Israel is expected to become even more arid with a projected 0.36 degree Fahrenheit increase and will also suffer from a decrease by 20-25% below the present mean of annual rainfall. Many studies have proved that there is a clear correlation between rising temperatures results in decreasing water resources in Israel. Lake Kinneret and the Jordan Catchment, Israel’s main freshwater suppliers, are expected to follow a decreasing trend in precipitation and runoff. By 2020 374-661 million people in Israel will experience an increase of water stress. Even without the effect of climate change, the population in Israel is predicted to increase by 2.9 to 3.3 billion people by the year 2025. The results from this research reveal that climate change will have an affect on Israel’s water supply. With increased water resource stress, the people of Israel including the Palestinians in the occupied territories need to become aware of the impacts climate change has on their way of living before Israel is no longer fit for human inhabitance.</p>
2013-01-10T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/28
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1029
2013-06-17T21:02:47Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Late-Quaternary Channel Migration in Red Rock Canyon State Park, California; Implications for Regional Tectonics
Townsend, Kirk Forrest
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2013-06-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Geology
Geomorphology
Monoclinal Shifting
Valley Asymmetry
Surficial Geology
Neotectonics
El Paso Basin
<p>The Iron Canyon Valley, located at the southern end of the eastern Sierra Nevada at the boundary between the Mojave and Basin and Range tectonic provinces, exhibits clear evidence, over graded timescales, of development through monoclinal shifting, which is the tendency of streams flowing parallel to strike over sedimentary rocks to shift down-dip. Although the character of the valley and bedrock dip indicates development through monoclinal shifting, the current stream network is located up-dip on the east side of the valley. Mapping the surficial geology of the valley revealed the presence of dissected alluvial surfaces approximately 85 meters above modern channel on the east, up-dip side of the valley, and 12-25 meters above the channel on the west, down-dip side of the valley, indicating westward, down-dip channel migration with incision throughout most of the Quaternary. However, undissected terraces and modern channel alluvium record subsequent late-Quaternary drainage shifting to the east side of the valley, where the channel is currently incising into toes of coalesced alluvial fans originating from the east in the El Paso Mountains. Several processes that promote valley asymmetry, including microclimate influences and alluvial fan propagation from the west, are explored to explain the distribution of surficial sediments. It is concluded that late-Quaternary onset of tectonic tilting towards the east has forced the axial channel up-dip and to the east side of the valley. As the area sits astride two major tectonic boundaries, there are a number of processes that could cause tectonic tilting. Further study should consist of: (1) expanding the study to determine if late-Quaternary eastward channel migration is a regional phenomenon, and (2) establishing age control on units Qal1, Qal2, and Qal3 to determine the timing of up dip channel migration relative to nearby fault activity and seismicity.</p>
2013-06-01T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/29
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1030
2013-06-17T21:04:25Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Impact of Hydraulic Fracturing on Ground and Surface Water Resources
Schenck, Reyna
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2013-06-01T07:00:00Z
Richard Thompson
Environmental Health
Environmental Sciences
fracking
water
contamination
depletion
policy
oil
<p>The following study examines hydraulic fracturing operations in the United States in relation to groundwater contamination, withdrawals of freshwater resources, and jurisdictional authority over the activity with the purpose of producing objective analysis of research findings. With a growing population and increasing energy needs, hydraulic fracturing is expanding across the nation, as is public concern over the risks to freshwater resources. Because of the difficulty in identifying non-point sources of water pollution, a lack of legitimate water samples representing baseline conditions, and incomplete lists of chemical additives used, study results are often inconclusive as to the correlation between hydraulic fracturing and groundwater contamination. However, there is a higher likelihood of groundwater contamination caused by poor wastewater disposal and management practices. The impact of large withdrawals of water from a watershed varies between regions and while millions of gallons of freshwater per day used in hydraulic fracturing may not affect a watershed in a region with relatively high rates of annual precipitation, these withdrawals can have an adverse impact on remote and sensitive areas. The Environmental Protection Agency has never had jurisdiction over hydraulic fracturing except when diesel fuel is used; however, further research may prompt new legislation allowing the agency to oversee the activity.</p>
2013-06-03T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/30
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1031
2013-06-17T21:05:53Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
A Study of Knickpoint Formation: Geomorphic Analysis of San Simeon Creek
Moffatt, Keith
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2013-06-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio F. Garcia
Geomorphology
Other Earth Sciences
Tectonics and Structure
knickpoint
San Simeon
plate tectonics
Santa Lucia range
<p>The highest point of orogeny in the Santa Lucia range occurs 50-60km from the nearest active faulting. This orogeny is believed to have occurred hear due to relatively weak Franciscan Mélange versus the granitic material at the fault boundary. This paper studies the development of a knickpoint in San Simeon creek to identify the role of relatively recent (graded time) tectonic activity in orogeny of the Santa Lucia range.<br />The 2003 earth quake is evidence of recent base level change with the occurrence of orogeny supporting the theory of continuous orogeny in recent and graded time scale. Although the knickpoint occurs in a resistant portion of the Franciscan Mélange, overall it is a relatively soft substrate suggests that Garcia and Mahan’s theory of Quaternary orogeny.</p>
2013-06-13T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/31
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1032
2013-08-28T21:53:30Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Lower San Luis Obispo Creek Stewardship Plan
Lukehart, Raven
Bohlman, Daniel
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2013-06-01T07:00:00Z
Priya O. Verma
Agriculture
Environmental Health
Fruit Science
Geology
Other Earth Sciences
Soil Science
The Land Conservancy
environmental planning
orchard
Stewardship
arondo donax
invasive
non-native
native
2013-06-17T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/33
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1033
2013-08-14T20:20:04Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Habitat Type Mapping in Montana de Oro State Park Through GIS Image Classification
Corrales, Evan
Fockler, Sarah
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2013-06-01T07:00:00Z
Russell White
Other Forestry and Forest Sciences
GIS
Image Classification
Montana de Oro
<p>This project involved using aerial imagery and GIS procedures to automatically map the basic vegetation communities present within Montana de Oro State Park, CA: grassland, coastal scrub, bare ground, woodland, and riparian areas. 1m resolution color imagery of the park from the NAIP 2005 (National Agriculture Inventory Program) and 1m resolution LiDAR height data were also used to determine the locations of the different vegetation types in the park. This data was then classified by color using the interactive supervised classification tool in ArcGIS. Points were taken in the park using a GPS unit, and compared with the GIS results to test for the accuracy of the resultant map. The main goals of this project were to classify the vegetation types in Montana de Oro, and provide information that could be useful in the future. This project will also serve as a set of guidelines for students wishing to do similar projects using GIS. Through image classification tools in ArcGIS and field verification, we were able to accurately classify vegetation types in Montana de Oro and provide the basis for similar projects in the future.</p>
2013-08-05T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/32
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1034
2013-08-28T21:55:01Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Depth to Bedrock Estimations Using the H/V Spectral Ratio in the San Joaquin Valley
Morelli, Tyler A.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2013-08-01T07:00:00Z
John J. Jasbinsek
Earth Sciences
Geophysics and Seismology
microtremors
H/V spectral ratio
frequency spectra
sediment thickness
basin depth
spectral ratios
<p>Basin depth is a fundamental parameter in many types of geologic studies such as resource exploration and regional tectonic mapping. The Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratio (“H/V”) method has been successfully applied to estimating of basin depths up to several hundred meters. In this study the H/V method is applied to the deep basins on the western side of the San Joaquin Valley to determine the thickness of the sedimentary layers and depth to bedrock. Microtremor data from Earthscope Seismic Array stations are ideal to test the accuracy of the H/V method on deeper basins because the data is of high-quality and the proximity of several station locations to where independent basin depth estimates exist. The H/V method is also attractive because it is inexpensive and non-invasive, thus providing a reconnaissance tool for identifying locations in which more detailed mapping techniques may be justified. This study finds that while moderate basin depths (< ~1.2 km) are estimated accurately, deep basin depths (up to ~4 km) are significantly underestimated (~ 29%). These mixed results suggest that the sedimentary to bedrock transition in the deeper parts of the San Joaquin Valley is gradual rather than sharp.</p>
2013-08-15T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/34
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1035
2020-01-13T21:10:18Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
Road Cuts and Atterberg Limits of Little Creek Road
Marquis, Christopher A.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2013-10-01T07:00:00Z
Christopher Surfleet
Water Resource Management
spr_stu
<p>This senior project examined road cuts and soil adjacent to the road cut, along Little Creek road. Contrasting a landslide hillslope complex to a hillslope drainage complex, the project also compared the organic soil horizon to the mineral soil horizon in both soil units. The soils were analyzed using qualitative and quantitative measures of soil properties. The project utilized a road cut inventory to note the characteristics of the road cut such as presence of rill erosion, rock outcrop and sloping degree of the road cut. The project derived the plasticity index for both organic and mineral horizons, and compared the plasticity indices across each soil hierarchal class and soil horizon. The plasticity index in the project was utilized as a quantitative measure of soil behavior and was used in this project as an auxiliary measure of soil strength. The plasticity index was then compared to the attributes recorded in the road cut inventory. The results indicate that differing hierarchal soil classes require different erosion management practices and even in close proximity soil may behave and erode differently</p>
2013-10-11T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/35
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1036
2019-09-25T17:46:45Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
A Study of Escherichia coli Presence in Viscera Before and After Anaerobic Composting
Williams, Grant M.
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2013-04-01T07:00:00Z
Christopher Appel
E. coli
Fermentation
Bokashicycle
Sustainability
Livestock
spr_stu
<p>Anaerobic composting may be a way to eradicate Escherichia coli (E. coli) in viscera from cattle. The presence of potentially harmful E. coli would account for one of the reasons that viscera by law cannot currently be disposed of on a ranch premises. Investigating this to find whether E. coli could be eradicated through this process could reduce inconvenience for ranchers to have local slaughters in California and would be more sustainable as more nutrients would return to the ranch land. This study was done by using E. coli inoculated viscera, which was then put it into Bokashicycle anaerobic composting cyclettes. Then after the process had run the cycle, the cyclettes were opened and again tested for the presence of E. coli. The cylette results varied, but all the cyclettes significantly reduced their E. coli concentrations. One cyclette reduced E. coli quantities to zero. This process was not perfected in this short study, but the results show much promise to the future as a potential method of eradicating E. coli from viscera.</p>
2013-11-07T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/36
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1037
2013-12-11T22:57:57Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Surficial Geologic Map of Kings Canyon: Implications for Relatively Slow Stream Incision Rates
Farris, Andrew
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2013-12-01T08:00:00Z
Antonio F. Garcia
Geology
Geomorphology
Glaciology
Knickpoint
Incision
Geologic Map
Tectonics
Wisconsinan Glaciation
<p>Most of the Kings River in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California has responded to regional uplift with rapid incision, creating the deepest canyon in the United States. However, Kings Canyon near Cedar Grove is still a mountainous relict landscape with little evidence of fluvial incision. Mapping took place in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon to assess factors and/or processes causing relatively low stream incision rates in the region during Holocene time. A surficial geologic map was created in the field, along with visual observations of the South Fork of the Kings River and characterization of geologic map units. The surficial map showed no evidence of knickpoint retreat and little subsequent vertical erosion near Cedar Grove. The field area has a large amount of young alluvium (unit <em>Qa</em> ) and a significant amount of young colluvium (unit <em>Qc</em> ). Tioga and Tahoe Stade moraines (unit <em>Qm</em> ) are present, but only as far west as Cedar Gove village. Stream terraces (unit <em>Qoa</em> ) exist in close proximity to the South Fork of the Kings River, but they postdate the last glaciation and are less than 10,000 years old. Minimal Holocene time fluvial incision near Cedar Grove appears to be a consequence of glaciation. Glacition lowered channel gradient and vertically denuded the valley bottom of Kings Canyon at Cedar Grove far greater than fluvial erosion would have in a comparable time scale. The Wisconsinan Glaciation also proved to be a major erosional agent and originator of sediment in the upper Kings drainage. This glaciation significantly lowered stream gradient and, consequently, stream power, and produced sufficient sediment (alluvium and till) to partially fill the scoured Kings Canyon glacial trough. Relatively fast and large magnitude Holocene time stream incision rates in areas not affected by glaciation (5 km west of Cedar Grove) support the case that Wisconsinan glaciations have proven to be a “system wrecking ball” for the Kings drainage near Cedar Grove.</p>
2013-12-04T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/38
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1038
2013-12-05T17:19:54Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Variability in soil climate and respiration on managed timber stands: A case study in southwest Oregon
Pensky, Scott
Gallo, Adrian
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2013-06-01T07:00:00Z
Karen Vaughan
Forest Management
soil science
respiration
climate
Solvita
Oregon
Douglas
Ponderosa
<p>Thinning of forested lands and timber stands in the Pacific Northwest have taken place for centuries with a limited understanding of how the alterations may affect ecosystem functions. The goal of this study was to examine the soil climate and microbial activity on a seasonal timescale of thinning practices examined at different stages of succession. Two timber stands in Southwestern Oregon within the Grayback Creek Watershed were chosen because of identical forest management techniques separated by a 10-year treatment interval (40% variable density thinning). Field methods and equipment measured canopy coverage, soil moisture and temperature at 3 depths (5, 15, 30 cm), as well as snow and precipitation events. Laboratory analysis included particle size analysis (PSA), determination of total %C and %N, and CO<sub>2</sub> respiration. The least diurnal flux was at the deepest (30cm) and the greatest temperature flux near the surface (5cm) The covered stand showed a smaller magnitude of diurnal flux compared to the thinned stand (±3°C and ±7°C respectively). The driest time of the year was identical for both stands, however the thinned stand had twice as much (10.8%) water by volume at the 5cm level compared to the covered stand (5.2%). Snowpack acted as a buffer from air temperature limiting the diurnal flux, and the greatest addition to soil water occurred when snow melted on both stands. The thinned stand reached 40% water content (q<sub>s</sub>) throughout the profile after the first snowmelt, the covered stand rarely approached that level at any depth and time. CO<sub>2</sub> respiration, total carbon, and total nitrogen were significantly less on the thinned site compared to the covered site (12 v 45 ppm CO<sub>2</sub> at the surface, 2 v 5% carbon, 7 v 20% total nitrogen respectively). The lack of vegetation density (therefore decreased transpiration demands) on the thinned site may account for the differences between (1) water content differences at the peak of the dry season, (2) differences in the magnitude of diurnal flux, (3) and amount of precipitation required to reach q<sub>s.</sub> The CO<sub>2</sub> respiration differences can be attributed to the covered understory vegetation significantly adding more organic matter for microbe decomposition compared to the relatively bare ground on the thinned stand.</p>
2013-12-04T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/37
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1039
2014-01-13T17:58:35Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Common Core 4th Grade Environmental Science Lesson Plans for California Teachers
Schoenfeld, Gillian
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2013-12-01T08:00:00Z
Priya Verma
Curriculum and Instruction
Earth Sciences
Environmental Sciences
Natural Resources and Conservation
Other Education
Other Life Sciences
California
Common Core
4th Grade Science
Environmental Science
Lesson Plans
<p>This project and its analyses were conducted to assist California fourth grade elementary school teachers in adjusting to teaching Common Core standards and science curriculum in their classrooms. The project included the creation of lesson plans, which could be utilized throughout the state of California.</p>
<p>As the Common Core standards, California’s Next Generation Science Standards for K- 12, were just proposed in June of 2013, these lesson plans would help teachers update their lessons and provide them materials and concepts of how to do so. These lessons provide higher-order thinking for students, which is the whole concept of the new Common Core standards.</p>
2014-01-12T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/39
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1040
2014-02-18T18:46:53Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Relationship of Joint Sets to Folded Diatomite Bedding of the Miguelito Member of the Pismo Formation in Montaña de Oro State Park
McMahan, Michael
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2014-01-01T08:00:00Z
Scott Johnston
Geology
Joint
Pismo Formation
Miguelito Member
Syntectonic Hydrofractures
<p>This study was conducted to determine if the orientations of observed joint sets in the late Miocene diatomite bedding of the exposed Miguelito Member in Montaña de Oro State Park relate to the San Andreas wrench fault compressional forces that caused folding of the formation. Strikes and dips of bedding planes and their corresponding first and second generation joint sets were gathered and compiled into a stereonet program for analysis. A cross section of the bedding plane data shows compressional antiform (fold axis oriented ~304/013) and synform (fold axis oriented ~300/001) features. Previous studies indicate post Miocene, tectonic shortening with a stress field oriented σ1: ~028/002 and 0.2 to 0.23 mm/yr uplift of the San Luis/Pismo structural block. Mode one intensive fractures develop ~90° dips and define a stress field with a maximum stress (σ1) parallel and a minimum stress (σ3) perpendicular to resulting joints. The average σ3 of the finite stress field of the primary joints is ~095/010. The resulting σ3 of the finite stress field of the secondary joints have a less consistent strike of ~090 to ~180. The data shows that primary joints are syntectonic hydrofractures, created by the same horizontal shortening that caused ductile bedding deformation. The conjugate secondary joint systems are created by a stress field at a more recent time and orientated σ3 ~135/000. I suggest that the predominant secondary orthogonal joint systems are created by outer arc extension and/or unroofing related to uplift and erosion. Results from this study indicate that brittle and ductile deformation of the Miguelito Member agree with the horizontal northeast to southwest tectonic shortening of the San Luis Obispo/Pismo block. Evidence for a clockwise rotating stress field from the conjugate joint set data may also support the wrench tectonic kinematic model of theCaliforniaCentralCoast.</p>
2014-02-03T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/40
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1041
2014-05-21T18:54:03Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Geoelectrical Detection of Water Table Depth at two Locations in the Los Osos Groundwater Basin
Douglas, Hallie A
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2013-12-01T08:00:00Z
John Jasbinsek
Geology
Geophysics and Seismology
Soil Science
Water Resource Management
geophysics
geoelectrical detection
water table depth
groundwater monitoring
geology
Los Osos groundwater basin
<p>The city of Los Osos sits on top of a coastal groundwater aquifer which is the sole supplier of all its residential, agricultural, and industrial water needs. Lacking a sewer system, the upper aquifer became progressively contaminated with nitrates over several decades. Groundwater pumping eventually shifted to the lower aquifer, however seawater intrusion of the lower aquifer caused by over-pumping has further degraded water quality. The Los Osos groundwater basin provides an excellent field region to examine the utility of geophysical methods for characterizing aquifer structure. In this study shallow (<20 >m) electrical resistivity imaging methods were performed at two locations in Los Osos to assess depth to water table. The goals of the electrical resistivity surveys were to assess the depth to the water table in each area and compare with water table depths from nearby well data. If accurate and sufficient data are found, the resistivity surveys might be a plausible way to monitor the areas of contamination in a non-invasive manner.</p>
2014-05-18T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/41
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1042
2019-06-11T21:42:20Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Relationship between soil moisture and electrical resistivity in a native meadow and forest ecotone
Davis, Todd
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2014-06-01T07:00:00Z
Christopher Surfleet
Water Resource Management
2014-06-04T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/42
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1043
2019-10-22T23:10:28Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
Investigating meter scale topographic variation as a factor of Monterey pine (<em>Pinus radiata</em>) growing conditions at Kenneth Norris Rancho Marino Reserve, Cambria, CA
Meyst, William J
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2014-06-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Biodiversity
Biology
Forest Management
Geology
Geomorphology
Other Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Other Environmental Sciences
Soil Science
microtopography
geomorphology
tree-throw
pit-and-mound topography
coastal vegetation
spr_stu
<p>Endemic Monterey pine (<em>Pinus radiata</em>) is limited to three locations in California due to its unique ecological requirements. This project was conducted to investigate spatial growth patterns ofMonterey pine over complex ground surfaces. The coastal hills of Rancho Marino Reserve, Cambria, were surveyed using four 150-m transects to quantify and record ground surface features and growing conditions ofMonterey pine. Changes in elevation of each transect were measured using an Abney level. Linear ground surfaces were found at 86% (344 of 400) of survey nodes. Convex ground surfaces were found at 10.5% of survey nodes (42 of 400). Of the 50 trees that were encountered, 54% grew on linear surfaces and 44% grew on convex surfaces. Calculations of elevation changes were inconclusive due to error. Complex meter scale variations in the ground surface influence the spatial extent ofMonterey pine trees at Rancho Marino. The trees likely prefer higher porosity levels associated with linear and convex soil surfaces. Monterey pine may have played a first-hand role in recent landscape evolution at Rancho Marino.</p>
2014-06-16T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/43
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1044
2014-06-23T19:16:14Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Detrital Zircon Geochemistry of the Nacimiento Block, Santa Ynez Mountains, California
Zhao, Vincent
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2014-06-01T07:00:00Z
Scott Johnston
Geochemistry
Geology
Nacimiento block
Salinian block
detrital zircon
REE
Great Valley Group
Santa Ynez Mountain
California
<p>The long-lived California section of the North American Cordillera is one of the most studied continental margins in the world; however, erosion and deformation in areas along the San Andreas Fault and the Sur-Nacimiento Fault has erased sections of the Cordillera which could provide insight in Cordilleran processes. The lost sections are partially preserved in detrital zircons deposited alongside the arc in fore-arc basins such as in the Toro Formation of the Nacimiento block which represents the coastal central California equivalent to the Great Valley Group, located in the Santa Ynez Mountains. Geochemical analysis of the detrital zircons from the Toro Formation suggests that a previous unmapped fault thrust Tithonian to Valanginian (133.9-152.1 Ma) sedimentary rocks over Albian (100.5-113.0 Ma) rocks. Additionally, a low of U/Yb at 150 Ma, decreasing Yb/Gd with time, and fluctuating Th/U levels with highs during magmatic pulses and lows during lulls correlates with previous work done with similarly aged sandstones in the McCoy Mountains which represents the retro-arc basin. Rising Gd concentration is the driver for the lowering of Yb/Gd while Yb concentrations remained relatively randomly stable which suggest presence of garnet throughout the arc’s lifetime and the appearance of titanite with age. Changes of the age distribution of the detrital zircon grains from pre-Cordilleran dominated Tithonian to Valanginian detritus to Cordilleran dominated Albian detritus suggest changes in the drainage networks. All together this study found records of geochemical and physical changes within the arc and physical changes to the Toro Formation on only a portion of the Nacimiento block. Additional studies up section into the Atascadero Formation would uncover additional records of the Cordillera as a whole.</p>
2014-06-19T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/44
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1045
2014-06-30T21:03:03Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Land Management Practices and their effects on Grouse Populations of the American Pacific Northwest
Pompa, Connor Michael
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2014-01-01T08:00:00Z
Sarah Bisbing
Forest Management
2014-06-21T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/45
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1047
2019-06-11T21:43:03Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Utilizing Indicator of Reduction in Soils Tubes to Affirm a Serpentinitic Hydric Soil on the California Central Coast
DeMoss, Jason
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
2014-11-01T07:00:00Z
Karen Vaughan
Biogeochemistry
Environmental Health
Hydrology
Soil Science
wetlands
usda
army corps of engineers
IRIS tubes
serpentinite
redox
<p>Wetlands are vital ecosystems that are crucial in maintaining the life of rare and unique soils, plants, and animals. These ecosystems are key players in water storage, water filtration, carbon storage, and harboring unique species. Since the intervention of human development on the Earth’s surface, almost 50% of the Earth’s original wetlands have either been damaged or destroyed. The identification and assessment of both new and old wetlands is crucial in the survival of these precious ecosystems and their conservation. A 3 month-long study was performed to confirm the hydric status of a soil derived from serpentinitic parent material. The serpentinite study area was confirmed to have wetland hydrology and vegetation, but due to the unique genesis of the soil, no hydric soil indicators were met. The incorporation of indicator of reduction in soils (IRIS) tubes was used to examine the potential reduction of iron in this problematic soil. All IRIS tubes were examined using Adobe Photoshop to obtain exact percentage amounts of reduction and oxidation. It was confirmed that the site is a wetland, with each extraction week providing more than 3 tubes with more than 30% iron reduction within 30cm of the soil surface. The study also incorporated a test of the human eye to the photoshop analysis to see the differences when analyzing IRIS tubes via those methods. It was found that there is a lack of study of serpentinitic wetlands and even more so, the study of sulfur reduction in these unique wetland ecosystems. Further studies could be performed on this site, or a similar site, to study the effect of serpentinite on wetland soils and sulfur reduction.</p>
2014-11-25T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/46
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1049
2015-05-22T17:14:35Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
The Relationship Of Applied Rock Phosphate On The Growth Of Sweet Corn
Sutherland, Deborah A
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Soil Science
1987-12-01T08:00:00Z
Terry Smith
Agricultural Science
Sandy Soil
Loam Soil
<p>Banding is a more intense application of fertilizers than broadcasting. Literature reviews have indicated that a higher amount of phosphorus in the root zone can enhance the growth and development of seedlings (Amin and Zaidi, 2004). Field trials on Sandy and Loam soils were conducted to test the effects of rock phosphate on sweet corn. These effects were investigated by studying the height, dry weight and phosphorus uptake of plants grown in soils banded with 0-90 lb P2O5/AFS. The results were moderate increases in plant height with applied rock phosphorus. The laboratory studies entailed oven drying forty day old corn plants to obtain their dry weights, then grinding and ashing the plants in order to extract the phosphorus through the phospho-molybdo-vanadate-nitric acid method. The phosphorus extraction showed a direct correlation between applied rock phosphate and phosphorus uptake by the plants.</p>
2015-05-13T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/47
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1050
2019-10-21T18:30:18Z
publication:research
publication:spr
publication:programs
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
publication:spr_stu
Digitization of Disturbance History for Swanton Pacific Ranch from 1989 to 2015
McQuillan, Daniel
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Forestry and Natural Resources
2015-04-01T07:00:00Z
Sara Bisbing
Environmental Education
Environmental Health and Protection
Environmental Monitoring
Natural Resources Management and Policy
swp_stu
Environment
Disturbance
Ecology
Redwood
Fire
Logging
spr_stu
2015-06-11T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/48
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1054
2019-06-11T21:40:49Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Structure and geochronology of the White Fork pluton, southern Sierra Nevada
Mahaffey, Ian Richard
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2016-06-01T07:00:00Z
Scott Johnston
Earth Sciences
Geochemistry
Geology
Tectonics and Structure
Structural Geology
Geochronology
Sierra Nevada Batholith
White Fork Pluton
East Sierra Thrust Belt
Independence Dike Swarm
<p>The Sierra Nevada batholith represents an archetypal continental arc, although the style of deformation throughout the history of the arc is only poorly understood, in part due to the voluminous nature of Late Cretaceous magmatism that has overprinted earlier structures. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of pre-Late Cretaceous deformation in the Sierra Nevada batholith through a structural and geochronological study of the Jurassic White Fork pluton. A Jurassic age for the White Fork pluton is indicated by its inclusion of numerous 148 Ma Independence dikes, and geochronology on the White Fork pluton is limited to discordant U–Pb zircon dates of ~156 Ma. We determined new U–Pb zircon ages using laser ablation ICPMS on two granodiorites from the White Fork pluton and one quartz monzonite correlated with the Jurassic Diamond pluton. The ages were indistinguishable within error, yielding ages of 166.4 +3.5/-3.6 and 164.8 +3.3/-3.3 Ma for the granodiorite samples, and 167.0 +3.5/-3.6 Ma for the quartz monzonite. These ages are statistically identical to the adjacent 165 Ma Woods Lake Pluton, and similar to other Jurassic plutons exposed at this latitude in the Sierra Nevada. With respect to deformation, at least three distinct sets of ductile shear zones that form cm- to tens of m- wide anastomosing shear zones were identified in a transect across the White Fork pluton and into the Woods Lake pluton: steeply NE-dipping shear zones with steeply SE-plunging lineations and E-side-up shear sense, shallowly SE-dipping shear zones with down-dip lineations and thrust shear sense, and shallowly SW-dipping shear zones with down-dip lineations and thrust shear sense. All shear zones deform the Independence dikes and are absent from adjacent Late Cretaceous plutons in the region indicating an age range of 148–92 Ma for these ductile fabrics, and shallowly SW-dipping shear zones are locally observed cutting steeply NE-dipping shear zones suggesting that they occurred later in the strain history of the pluton. NE–SW shortening suggested by steeply NE-dipping, and shallowly SW-dipping shear zones is similar to strain observed in the nearby Sawmill Lake shear zone, and suggests that intra-arc contractional strain may have been more regional in nature in the Sierra Nevada batholith in the Early to Late Cretaceous.</p>
2016-06-21T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/49
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1055
2019-06-11T21:37:46Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Stream Terrace Genesis Along Bunte Creek in the Elkhorn Plain, CA
Allgaier, Madi
Anderson, Shelley
Lord, Duncan
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2017-03-01T08:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Geology
Terrace
Surficial
Geomorphology
Incision
<p>There are several factors influencing terrace genesis and terrace types in Bunte Creek. Strath terraces exist at upper Bunte Creek, whereas thick fill terraces exist at lower Bunte Creek. Analysis of these terraces leads to insight on what specific factors lead to their formation. Terraces were mapped along the extent of Bunte Creek. Sediment data and terrace-height data were collected for in order to make a complete analysis of the terraces. Tectonic uplift led to incision and strath terrace genesis at upper Bunte Creek. Climatic forcing and base-level rise caused alluvial aggradation behind a shutter ridge that intersects lower Bunte Creek. Once the alluvial fill reached the elevation of the shutter ridge, a new, lower base level at Bunte Creek was established. This led to incision and fill terrace genesis in lower Bunte Creek.</p>
2017-03-23T07:00:00Z
<p>Title page is in error: senior project was presented to the faculty of the Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department, not the faculty of the Communication Studies Department.</p>
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/50
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1056
2019-06-11T21:39:50Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Soil Science Lesson Plan for the Cal Poly Learn By Doing Lab
Ormonde, Kelsey
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2017-05-01T07:00:00Z
Chip Appel
Environmental Education
Soil Science
soil
education
teaching module
learning object
<p>To increase interest in soil science and other related sciences, educational materials need to be tailored to appeal to younger students. The purpose of this project was to create a soil science lesson plan that could be utilized by the Cal Poly Learn By Doing Lab. Information from several articles, textbooks, lesson plans, and websites was reviewed to create a soil science lesson plan for students in 5-8<sup>th</sup> grade. The lesson plan focused on the three sub-disciplines of soil science; physical, chemical, and biological. Activities were created to correspond to the three sub-disciplines. Alternate activities were created to allow for substitutions. The concluding activity incorporated the three sub-disciplines by discussing the important processes soil provides for life on earth. The lesson plan was written to be educational, but also entertaining for students and teachers.</p>
2017-06-13T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/51
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1057
2019-06-11T21:38:37Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
A Study of Marine Terrace Formation Along the California Central Coast
Devlin, Mary C
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2017-11-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio García
Climate
Geology
Geomorphology
Hydrology
Oceanography
Other Earth Sciences
Tectonics and Structure
marine terrace
shore platform
geomorphology
wave erosion
coastal erosion
beach cliff
<p>Marine terrace formation is in many instances attributed to wave action, and shore platforms are often called “wave-cut”. However, alternative models for marine terrace formation suggest that other types of physical and chemical weathering have a more central role in the formation of marine terraces than is widely acknowledged. Roering and Retallack (2012) concluded that the roles of subaerial physical and chemical weathering are significant, and played a major role in the formation of the terraces. In this study, weathering of beach cliffs and shore platforms associated with marine terraces at eight sites in two different locations along the central California Coast is assessed, and results are compared to those of Roering and Retallack.</p>
<p>Findings for rock hardness along the profile of modern shore platform and cliff face are similar to the results from the Roering and Retallack study: the Schmidt rock hardness of cliff faces within the bottom 1.5 meters above the modern shoreline angle are significantly lower than the rock hardness of the shore platform. Oxidation color of shore platforms, assessed using a Munsell color and described in Munsell color notation, is consistently within the Gley 1 range in both study areas. Beach cliff oxidation color varied from Gley to colors indicating oxidation. Oxidation on beach cliffs was more prevalent within the upper half meter of the part of the beach cliff that was sampled, and oxidation within fractures and cracks was also apparent in some cliff faces.</p>
2017-11-08T08:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/52
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1059
2019-06-11T21:36:22Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Tectonic Controls on Alluvial Fan Dissection in the El Paso Mountains
Gaffney, Michael Thomas
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2018-06-01T07:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Geology
Geomorphology
Geomorphology
Redrock fault
Alluvial fan dissection
El Paso Mountains
<p>The localized dissection of alluvial fans along the western El Paso Mountains is under question. A relatively minor, south dipping normal fault, previously unmentioned in scientific literature, cuts across Quaternary terraces and alluvial fans in the piedmont of the El Paso Mountains. The linear trend of footwall uplift and the pattern of stream incision into the footwall adjacent to the linear trend of footwall uplift reveal that fan dissection is a result of base level fall caused by ongoing tectonism along the El Paso fault system. The regional importance is discussed as the timing of faulting reveals relatively recent uplift of the El Paso Mountains, and a model of extensional strain partitioning is argued for to account for this uplift in the tectonically complex Garlock Fault Zone.</p>
2018-06-12T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/53
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1060
2020-02-05T19:04:18Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Column Tests of Nitrate Breakthrough Behavior in Subsurface Sediments to Understand Transport in the Root-Zone
Haworth, Rebecca Sally
Goodwin, Emma Rose
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Earth Sciences
2018-06-01T07:00:00Z
Bwalya Malama, College of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
Environmental Health and Protection
Hydrology
Soil Science
nitrate
soil
hydrology
contamination
groundwater
transport
<p>Nitrate has become an increasingly ubiquitous pollutant in surface and groundwater, posing a threat to hu- man health and ecosystems. Nitrogen is a necessary nutrient for plant growth and is limiting in many soils. As a result, farmers often add nitrogen to soil in a usable form such as nitrate, nitrite, or ammonia through the addition of fertilizer.</p>
2018-06-15T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/54
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1063
2019-06-11T21:35:35Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Investigation into strath terrace production in the Mud Hills, California
Miller, Patrick Morley
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Earth & Soil Sciences
2019-03-01T08:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia
Geology
Geomorphology
<p>Rainbow Basin and Owl Canyon comprise deeply dissected uplands in the Mud Hills region near Barstow, California in the western portion of the Basin and Range geologic province. These erosional landscapes are formed in sediment deposited in a Miocene-time extensional basin. The basin was then filled with sediment before being inverted due to tectonic uplift beginning roughly 10 Ma. Sometime after 250 to 300 ka strath terraces were produced and preserved in the two drainage basins in Rainbow Basin, but not in the single drainage basin of Owl Canyon. The reason behind this difference is the main problem to be addressed by this study. This difference is ultimately explained by a contrast in critical stream power between the drainage basins stemming from a difference in the amount of sediment denuded from the hillslopes of the different catchments. Severe winter Pacific storms occurring between 11 and 14 ka may have led to the production and preservation of erosional strath terraces in Rainbow Basin while causing the aggradation of the channel in Owl Canyon. These severe winter storms tend to cause more denudation in larger drainages. Because the catchment of Owl Canyon is roughly three times the size of either of the catchments in Rainbow Basin, it is not unreasonable that this phenomenon would have raised critical steam power relative to stream power in Owl Canyon to a degree that it would cause aggradation in Owl Canyon while allowing strath production and sedimentation in Rainbow Basin.</p>
2019-03-19T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/55
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1064
2019-07-11T18:49:33Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Investigation of Pervasive Clay Layers and Their Effect on Groundwater Flow Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography in the San Antonio Groundwater Basin
Carlson, James M
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Earth & Soil Sciences
2019-06-01T07:00:00Z
John Jasbinsek
Geology
Geology
Geophysics
Electrical Resistivity Tomography
Groundwater
Hydrogeology
San Antonio Groundwater Basin
<p>The United States Geological Survey is developing an integrated hydrologic model of the San Antonio Creek Groundwater Basin to better understand and simulate the integrated surface water and groundwater system. An abrupt 60 meter offset in groundwater depth over a distance of less than one kilometer is observed in well readings within the Cañada De Las Flores region of the groundwater basin. Abrupt changes in groundwater levels are often explained by the presence of a fault in the subsurface vertically offsetting sedimentary units. However, observations of the structural geology of this region indicates that faulting is unlikely and suggests an alternative hypothesis: subsurface folds of the sedimentary units may provide distinct groundwater pathways to separated groundwater sub-basins. To test the two hypotheses Electrical Resistivity Tomography profiles were collected to image the subsurface and constrain the geologic structure responsible for the offset in groundwater levels. The subsurface imaging results do not support the fault model, but instead image a layer interpreted as impermeable clay that may be extensive throughout the folded structure of the region. The folded clay structure provides a plausible geologic model for diverting the subsurface flow of water producing the abrupt offset in groundwater well levels. The correct identification of the geologic structure in Cañada De Las Flores is important because each model significantly changes the characteristics and predictions of a groundwater model with respect to predicted subsurface flow, groundwater distribution, and recharge.</p>
2019-06-13T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/56
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:nrmsp-1065
2019-07-24T16:25:00Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Beaver (Castor Canadensis) of the Salinas River: A Human Dimensions-Inclusive Overview for Assessing Landscape-Scale Beaver-Assisted Restoration Opportunities
Suplick, Stuart Christian
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Management and Protection
2019-07-01T07:00:00Z
Yiwen Chiu
Natural Resources Management and Policy
Landscape Ecology
Steelhead Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Environmental Education
Drought
Watershed Restoration
Beaver Habitat and Ecosystem Impacts
<p>Across the western United States, researchers are increasingly working with beaver (<em>Castor canadensis</em>) for process-based stream and watershed restoration. One recently-developed geographic information system-based tool, the Beaver Restoration Assessment Tool (BRAT), analyzes opportunities for beaver-assisted restoration (BAR) at a landscape-scale. However, this tool benefits significantly from human dimensions-inclusive, basin-centralized beaver knowledge for proper interpretation. Unfortunately, this information is scattered or absent in most semi-arid and arid southern California basins. This study thus sought to gather and produce this information through an explorative, benefits-maximizing approach to landscape-scale BAR opportunities assessment in one of these basins, the Salinas River. 49.2 km of beaver dam field surveys, an emailed survey and interviews completed by 39 riparian organizations and residents, and a BRAT model run produced: an ANOVA-driven statistical determination of beaver damming hotspot areas, a beaver damming consistency range map, seven computer assisted qualitative data analysis themes, and BRAT dam capacity and management outputs. When combined, these products revealed basin beaver dam dynamics, population behavior, ecosystem impacts, and human dimensions information that, despite their high-level nature, improved the quality and applicability of assessment recommendations. Ultimately, this study demonstrates how integrating a qualitative data component in landscape-scale BAR assessments is valuable for understanding basin-specific BAR opportunities and considerations, especially for basins without extensive prior beaver research efforts. Study findings also support literature that suggests the current BAR field’s focus on beaver damming, and not other beaver activities, may be too restrictive for maximizing its potential in California basins similar to the Salinas River. Perhaps most interestingly, study findings suggest that beaver may be more prevalent in southern California rivers and their tributaries than has been commonly understood. That beaver extensively utilize the Salinas River basin warrants further research efforts in this basin, in addition to surveys and studies in other major southern California basins, to better understand their prevalence and potential ecosystem tradeoffs within these hydrologic regions. To this point, in these basins where beaver need no reintroduction, California beaver advocacy groups may better promote proactive beaver management by adjusting education and communication strategies to emphasize these potential tradeoffs. In doing so, they have an opportunity to impart a healthier understanding among human communities of local ecosystem complexities.</p>
2019-07-23T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/nrmsp/57
oai:digitalcommons.calpoly.edu:erscsp-1024
2020-10-26T18:21:08Z
publication:research
publication:students
publication:erscsp
publication:nrmsp
publication:seniorprojects
Quaternary Deposits Near the San Emigdio Mountains, California: Evidence for a Paleolandscape?
Lavelle, Paul G
Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department
BS in Environmental Earth & Soil Sciences
2006-11-01T08:00:00Z
Antonio Garcia, College of Science and Mathematics, Physics Department
Earth Sciences
Geology
Soil Science
<p>Discontinuous low-relief surfaces are scattered throughout relatively high topography within the San Emigdio Mountains, California. These surfaces are considered anomalous, as they are preserved in a dissected, mountainous region that is affected by ongoing orogeny. Previous research has suggested that the low-relief surfaces may represent a once-contiguous alluvial surface. This project utilizes field mapping and sedimentological analysis to determine if the surfaces represent a paleo landscape. What is apparent from field work is the presence of two morphologically distinct lithologic units that most likely represent surficial geologic components of the same relict landscape.</p>
2020-10-26T07:00:00Z
https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/erscsp/23