An Overview of 15 Years of Vernal Pool Restoration and Construction Activities in San Diego County, California

We review the status of five vernal pool creation and restoration projects in San Diego County that were prompted by efforts to mitigate for damage to or destruction of Pogogyne abramsii and Eryngium aristulatum ssp. parishii populations. The first project was begun in 1981 and the latest in 1992. Some degree of success, defined as persistence of significant populations of the target species, was obtained in all of the projects. After 4 to 15 years, the average condition of artificially constructed basins was distinguishable from that of natural basins for some features, but overall the evidence suggested a gradual convergence of the function and characteristics of artificial basins toward those of natural pools. We conclude that artificial basins can support populations of native species for considerable periods. It is less certain that artificial basins will remain suitable habitats in perpetuity. This uncertainty, plus the substantial aesthetic, scientific, and historic value of natural landscapes argues for giving the highest priority to the preservation of natural landscapes. CITATION. Pages 195-205 in: C.W. Witham, E.T. Bauder, D. Belk, W.R. Ferren Jr., and R. Ornduff (Editors). Ecology, Conservation, and Management of Vernal Pool Ecosystems – Proceedings from a 1996 Conference. California Native Plant Society, Sacramento, CA. 1998.