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 across these sites. Characterized by a rich mosaic 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 help protect and strengthen the region’s ecology 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 important corridors and refuge for wildlife, support 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 September 2024 newsletter includes updates on the Campus Lagoon Prescribed Burn, Oak Group at NCOS, and Sheep grazing on the NCOS Mesa. The feature story focuses on the transformation of the Ellwood butterfly grove. Community photos include White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi), Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Long-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus scolopaceus), and more!