1982 biotic survey of Yucca Mountain, Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada
In 1981 an extensive literature review was conducted to determine the current state of knowledge about the ecological characteristics of the Yucca Mountain study area and to identify what site-specific information was lacking. Based on the findings of the review a field study was initiated in 1982 to gather site-specific information on the ecological characteristics of the project area. The biota observed were representative of either the Mojave or Transition deserts that are widely distributed in southern Nevada and the arid Southwest. No unusual vegetation associations or assemblages of animals were observed. Based on observations of tracks and scats it was concluded that low numbers of both mule deer and feral burros used the area seasonally, and that neither species should be severely threatened by the proposed activities. The Mojave fishhook cactus and desert tortoise, both under consideration for federal protection as threatened species, were found to occur in the study area. The former was distributed in notable densities on the rocky ridgelines of Yucca Mountain in areas that should not be greatly disturbed by site characterization or future repository activities. Evidence of desert tortoise was observed throughout the project area to elevations of 5240 ft; however, relative densities were estimated to be low (less than 20 per square mile). Physical destruction of soils and native vegetation was determined to be the most significant negative effect associated with current and proposed characterization activities. Solution holes in exposed flat rock on ridgelines that served as passive collectors of precipitation and runoff were the only sources of free water observed. While these water supplies were not adequate to support riparian vegetation, there was evidence that they served as an important ephemeral source of water for wildlife.
- Research Organization:
- EG and G, Inc., Goleta, CA (United States). Energy Measurements Group
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC08-83NV10282
- OSTI ID:
- 59055
- Report Number(s):
- EGG-10282-2004; ON: DE84000865
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: Feb 1983
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
1983 biotic studies of Yucca Mountain, Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada
Ecological Monitoring and Compliance Program 2014 Report