The Carrizo Plains Ecological Reserve is approximately 38,900 acres and includes the American Ranch, North Chimineas, and South Chimineas Units. The Carrizo Plain is a diverse complex of scrub and woodland. The lowest elevations are dominated by spiny saltbush and iodine bush, with numerous vernal pools. Immediately upslope is either extensive non-native annual grassland or active drainages dominated by common saltbush. In the hills, several shrub communities are well represented including bush lupine, buckwheat, scrub oaks, and junipers. Numerous bird species occur, as well as carnivores, ungulates, rodents, bats, snakes, lizards, and other species.
For more information, call the Central Region Fresno office at (559) 243-4005 x151 or visit the Chimineas Ranch Foundation website.