Each month our editor, Laura Lukes, highlights an outstanding plant, an interesting insect, a fun place to visit, a new technique, or helpful tool.
March: North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
It’s wildflower time! One of the best local places for wildflower viewing is the North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve on Cherokee Road out of Oroville. The Reserve is managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), which requires a day pass for hiking access (just under $6 and is available online at CDFW Lands Pass. According to the CDFW website, the 3,300 acre Reserve is an “elevated basalt mesa created by ancient lava flows, with beautiful vistas of spring wildflowers, waterfalls, lava outcrops, and a rare type of vernal pool, called Northern Basalt Flow Vernal Pools. Despite the impacts of non-native invasive plant species, range management practices, such as cattle grazing, have contributed to maintaining spectacular wildflower blooms that draw visitors from far and near.” In addition, the 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside are phenomenal.
Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes, as basalt formations can be uneven and slippery when wet. Enjoy traipsing through this stunning natural area.