Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration

The Cheadle Center at UCSB manages more than 340 acres of open space between Ellwood Mesa and Goleta Slough, carrying out ecological restoration, research, and education projects at these sites. Characterized by a rich complex of oak woodland, coastal sage scrub, grassland, and wetland ecosystems, the area is known for its relatively high level of biodiversity. The Cheadle Center’s project sites and management areas serve to protect and strengthen the region’s ecology and ecosystems through habitat conservation, upland restoration, wetland creation and enhancement, and the implementation of sustainable stormwater management solutions. Through careful integration with local watersheds and surrounding natural areas, The Cheadle Center's management areas provide an important corridor and refuge for wildlife, ensure the long term preservation of the region's natural resources, and serve as outdoor classrooms, research sites, and recreational areas for the campus community and the public. This archived version of the July 2023 newsletter includes updates on the annual Tidewater Goby survey, Salt Marsh Bird's Beack plantings, and the detection of New Zealand Mudsnails. The feature story focuses on restoring vernal pools on and around the UCSB Campus. Community photos include baby Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), and Wilson's Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor).