Historical Ecology

Historical Ecology synthesizes diverse historical records to learn how habitats were distributed and ecological functions were maintained within the native California landscape. Understanding how streams, wetlands, and woodlands were organized along physical gradients helps scientists and managers develop new strategies for more integrated and functional landscape management. more >

Program Manager: Robin Grossinger

Meetings and Events

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Featured Projects

Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Historical Ecology Study

This historical reconstruction documents habitat types throughout the Delta to better understand the native landscape. Knowing how different parts of the vast historical Delta looked and functioned provides information for future restoration.
Critical Coastal Areas

Phase II of the CCA Program is designed to build on the preliminary assessment conducted under Phase I, which was completed in 2007. A key goal is to demonstrate the validity and applicability of various predictive tools to local government and other implementers of Best Management Practices (BMPs) under each set of applicable Management Measures.
Napa Valley Historical Ecology Atlas

a richly illustrated tour of the iconic Napa Valley landscape from 200 years ago to the present and future. Now available from University of California Press
Alameda Creek Historical Ecology Study

This study will assess watershed conditions prior to significant Euro-American modification, as a basis for understanding subsequent changes in watershed structure and function, and potential options for future environmental management.
East Contra Costa County Historical Ecology Study

a historical ecology assessment of natural resources in East Contra Costa County
Re-Oaking

Bringing Native Trees Back into the Bay Area’s Suburban Landscapes.
Ventura County Historical Ecology Study

the historical ecology of the lower Santa Clara River, Ventura River, and Oxnard Plain
Historical Wetlands of the Southern California Coast: An Atlas of US Coast Survey T-Sheets 1851-1889

This project is the first regional assessment of the relative distribution and abundance of different wetland habitat types along the historical Southern California coastline.
Historical Ecology of Miller Creek

This project provides an introduction to the historical land use and landscape changes in the Miller Creek watershed in eastern Marin County.
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Related Projects

News and Notables

More Videos

The Bay Institute: Lost Marshlands of SF Bay
KQED Quest: Wetlands Time Machine
The Application of Historical Ecology
May-11-12
KQED QUEST Highlights Delta Historical Ecology Study

Knowing how the ecosystem once worked could improve the habitat restoration efforts that are happening

Apr-21-12
"Today’s Vineyards, Yesterday’s Tall Oaks" - Napa Historical Ecology Atlas in the New York Times

On a recent sunny day in the Napa Valley, Robin Grossinger cupped his hands around his eyes and surveyed the landscape. He said the scene gave him “a feeling of grandeur.”

Mar-30-12
Bringing Back the Napa Valley shade: Leah Garchik on the Napa Historical Ecology Atlas

On lands where mighty oaks once grew, mighty oaks may grow again.

Mar-15-12
Press for the Napa Valley Historical Ecology Atlas

"a community project that can serve as a guide for future restoration"

Mar-12-12
Historically smart land design: Robin Grossinger interviewed on KALW

"You get this feeling of being in a cathedral of oaks, these incredibly big trees – a whole world of bird life up above"