Mather Vernal pools -- Sacramento County
Posted by: 
sbcamper
N 38° 33.000 W 121° 15.500
10S E 651769 N 4268279
Vernal pools lay dormant until spring rains revive the plants.
They exist in areas that have never been developed. (not contaminated by animal droppings, construction, etc.)
Waymark Code: WMDGG5
Location: California, United States
Date Posted: 01/12/2012
Views: 11
The California Native Plant Society has tried to educate folks to the value of these rare spaces. (www.CNPS.org )
Mather has been a military base since 1940s. Not subject to farming or development under the flight pattern.
Usually clay deposits hold the rainwater. The flowers bloom over a three week period in layers of color as the water level recedes. Esch week a different color appear; shades of pink,white, yellow, lt. blue. Timing is variable and depends upon rainfall and temperatures.
There is no defined parking but one must not go off road (prohibited).
It is a short hike from other activities in the area. Weekdays, it is possible to park on the verge. This site became open to the public when the base closed about 2000.
"For the preservation of this locality, collection or PICKING IS PROHIBITED."
Other sites are protected (or not) as private property, other Fed. property, and nearby at Phoenix Park [a National Natural Landmark].
There are several books /booklets authored locally.
www.splash.com
Species:
gold fields
Lobens poppies
Marsh mallow ?
popcorn ____
more, unk.
Habitat Type: wild flowers, natural seeding
Parking Area: N 38° 33.000 W 121° 15.000
Terrain Rating: 
Best Viewing Time: From: 04/01/2012 To: 05/14/2012
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