The MAB Program United States of America
Biosphere Reserve Information - General Description
Sequoia-Kings Canyon
General Description
Situated in the southern
Sierra Nevada (California), this biosphere reserve comprises Sequoia and Kings
Canyon National Parks. From west to east, the two adjacent parks extend from the
foothills of the San Joaquin Valley to the crest of the Sierra Nevada and
contain the highest parts of that range. Pleistocene glaciers left an abrupt
topography of granite carved canyons and domes and hundreds of glacial lakes.
The most notable vegetation is forests of giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron
giganteum). Oak woodland (Quercus douglasii, Q. wislizenii) and chaparral with
Adenostoma fasciculatum, Arctostaphylos viscida characterize the lower
elevations. Mixed conifer forest with Colorado white fir (Abies concolor), red
fir (A. magnifica), western yellow pine (Pinus ponderosa), sugar pine (P.
lambertiana) and lodgepole pine (P. contorta) forests and montane meadows occupy
the middle elevations. Subalpine forests with foxtail pine (P. balfouriana, P.
albicaulis) and meadows, krummholz, and alpine ecosystems typify the higher
elevations.
In addition to their natural diversity, the parks also host a unique cultural
and historical record. Archeological sites date back at least five thousand
years, indicating the presence of Native American peoples throughout the Sierra
Nevada. Past herding of sheep (1850-1900) and cattle (1850-1940) has resulted in
significant changes in the species composition and extent of upland and foothill
vegetation. Fire suppression during the 20th century has interrupted
successional patterns. Air pollution from outside the biosphere reserve affects
several prominent tree species. Recreational impact is locally acute. Sequoia
National Park contains a number of visitor centers, campsites and supply
facilities.
Last updated: 06/27/2005