How significant is Ellwood Mesa for monarch butterflies?

In 2016 The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation prepared a report for the USFWS titled State of the Monarch Butterfly Overwintering Sites in California (Pelton et al. 2016). In it, Ellwood Mesa was ranked second among historic overwintering sites prioritized for protection and active management. The highest rankings were given to sites that had experienced the greatest declines, yet still host the largest proportion of the remaining overwintering population.

What are Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHA) and is monarch habitat considered environmentally sensitive?

The City of Goleta General Plan Chapter 4, Policy CE 1. Defines and designates Environmentally Sensitive Habitat Areas (ESHAs) with the objective ‘to identify, preserve, and protect the city’s natural heritage by preventing disturbance of ESHAs.’ In the Ellwood Mesa, creek and riparian areas, wetlands, native grassland, monarch butterfly aggregation sites and related habitat areas, and nesting/roosting sites for various species of raptors are included in the designation. Any work within these areas requires special conditions to identify, protect and monitor sensitive species and habitats, and to mitigate impacts.

How do we know the monarchs will come back?

Monarch movement is unpredictable and we can’t know what will happen with the monarch population. We do know the conditions that make an attractive overwintering habitat. Ellwood Mesa provides many benefits but is declining in its ability to provide wind and storm protection. Our plan will recreate the conditions favored by the monarchs to give them the best chance of returning.

Who are your butterfly experts?

Althouse & Meade leads the butterfly team with Creekside Science.

Why don’t we keep people out of the grove to ensure the monarchs will not be disturbed?

The Goleta Butterfly Grove is one of our communities most loved public spaces. Management of Ellwood Mesa Open Space and the Goleta Butterfly Grove requires consideration of multiple interests and responsibilities. Our plan addresses habitat protection as well as safe and responsible access and enjoyment by the public.  

See more FAQs about monarch butterflies at the bottom of the Goleta Butterfly Grove page.

How do the plans account for species other than monarch butterflies?

The City has completed and continues to conduct extensive surveys to identify and map native biological resources that will be avoided during fuel reduction and restoration activities. These surveys include sensitive vegetation communities, native and rare plants, native trees, special-status wildlife species (including monarch butterfly overwintering aggregation sites), historic nesting bird sites and perching sites, locally known migrating bird congregation sites, jurisdictional waters, wetlands, and environmentally sensitive habitat areas (ESHA) that are protected by the City General Plan and the California Coastal Act. The City and consultants are also working with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to ensure project activities are properly protective of plants, wildlife, and habitat. A comprehensive resource avoidance plan details the exact conditions required for each special status species or sensitive habitat.

Do the plans consider and protect the owls, white tail kites, and other raptors at Ellwood?

Yes, prior to the start of construction and required nesting bird surveys, a qualified avian biologist will review citizen database records including the Santa Barbara Audubon Society, Santa Barbara Breeding Bird Study, iNaturalist, and eBird for current and historic records of raptor nesting/breeding activity. If white-tailed kites or other special status raptors are observed to be nesting within the Study Area, a minimum 500-foot buffer will be established around the nest site and the City will consult with CA Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to determine appropriate restrictions of passive activities (i.e. foot traffic and restoration/trail management or tree planting) and construction activities (ground disturbance and operation of heavy equipment) within the buffer. These restrictions will remain in place until a qualified biologist determines that the young have fledged and are no longer dependent on the nest site.

The Coronado Seep is very important for birds and other wildlife as a source of freshwater. How will you protect and preserve this spot?

The Hazardous Fuel Reduction Project outlines specific vegetation treatment for that area, including nesting bird surveys by John Storrer, Storrer Environmental Services, who has decades of experience with birds in the area. No activities other than hazardous fuel reduction are proposed in the Coronado Seep area.

How will woodrat middens be protected?

Woodrat middens (debris piles) are assumed to be present in the dense eucalyptus and oak woodlands. The middens likely belong to the common big-eared woodrat (Neotoma macrotis). If an active woodrat midden is found during the pre-construction surveys and/or daily monitoring, a qualified biologist will flag the middens for avoidance during construction activities (ground disturbance, operation of heavy machinery, and vegetation trimming) and a 10-foot avoidance buffer will be established around the midden.

Does the Goleta Urban Forest Management Plan apply to the Ellwood forest?

The Goleta Urban Forest Management Plan (GUFMP 2017) provides a guide for the long-term preservation and enhancement of the urban forest within the City’s jurisdiction. The urban forest is defined as all public and private trees including the street tree system, trees in parks and other public lands, and trees on private properties throughout the City. The vision statement of the GUFMP is: Goleta’s urban forest is a thriving and sustainable mix of tree species and ages that creates a contiguous and healthy ecosystem that is valued and cared for by the City and all of its citizens as an essential environmental, economic and community benefit. The GUFMP calls for a regular maintenance program for trees located in parks, open spaces, and median islands to ensure very mature tree health. Mulching, fertilization, and pruning are three major practices used to tend to mature trees. The MBHMP fulfills this section for a tree maintenance program for Ellwood Mesa eucalyptus groves.

Why are monarchs attracted to eucalyptus?

Eucalyptus are the most abundant tall trees along coastal California. Eucalyptus stands grow fast, and their branches sprout in response to sunlight, which helps them fill in the wind gaps monarchs are most vulnerable to. Their broad leaves and somewhat sparse canopy allow for a range of sunlight and shade into eucalyptus groves giving the monarchs an array of microsite conditions to choose from. Eucalyptus also provide nectar in mid-winter.

What other tree species will monarchs use for cluster sites? 

Tree species are less important to monarch behavior than the structure and microclimate that the tree provides. Monarchs will cluster on virtually any tree species: eucalyptus of various species with different leaf shapes, sparse long-needled pines, scaly cypress, prickly live oaks, broad leaved sycamores, and even solid trunks and walls. What matters is the microclimate.

Where did monarchs aggregate before eucalyptus were widely planted in California?

Prior to eucalyptus, monarchs likely overwintered primarily in the few native groves of Monterey pines at Cambria, Monterey Peninsula, and Año Nuevo. Parts of these native groves still support aggregations. Coastal stands of sycamores and other deciduous riparian trees in sheltered canyons may have provided transient aggregation sites until leaves fell and wind exposure increased. The range of overwintering monarchs has greatly expanded with the establishment of eucalyptus groves up and down the coast.

Why not replace eucalyptus with native trees?

This issue has long been debated among monarch biologists and advocates. Native roosting trees for monarch butterflies are Monterey pines and cypress, which continue to be the important cluster trees north of Santa Barbara County. However, the aridity of the Ellwood environment makes it unlikely that these trees would grow and thrive. Monarchs roost in western sycamores in Santa Barbara County in very low numbers and monarchs are known to leave when the sycamores lose their leaves in December.

Planting some native trees in appropriate moist microsites may provide the monarchs with alternative roost sites within a wind-sheltered zone, for example along Devereux Creek. Native oaks and shrubs will be a major component of understory plantings.

Why did so many blue gums at Ellwood die?

The years leading up to 2012 were wet, and favorable conditions allowed prolific growth for the blue gums. From 2012-2016, Ellwood experienced the worst drought in the last millennium. After years of dense growth, the drought resulted in intense resource competition for water, and the forest ran out of water, resulting in widespread mortality. The forest self-thinned to a density commensurate with the site water balance. The approximately 450,000 cubic feet of dead wood across Ellwood Mesa is proof of this die off, and now poses severe fire hazards to the forest and surrounding communities.

Will the removed blue gum eucalyptus trees be replaced in-kind? What other eucalyptus species will be planted and why?

A few blue gum trees will be strategically planted to replace lost roosting trees. Other eucalyptus and native trees will be planted to a create protective canopy and provide strength and longevity to the grove. To select the best trees for our restoration efforts, we evaluated the characteristics of 29 species of native trees, eucalyptus trees, and other non-native trees for their usefulness in monarch overwintering habitat and their suitability for our climate and long-term restoration goals. The following species were selected for their individual characteristics to improve the forest for overwintering monarchs: blue gum eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), karri (Eucalyptus diversicolor), toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), red ironbark (Eucalyptus sideroxylon), coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia), western sycamore (Platanus racemosa), California bay laurel (Umbellularia californica), and Fremont cottonwood (Populus fremontii).

Blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) (present and proposed) is the predominant monarch roosting tree at Ellwood. Blue gums will remain a primary constituent of the forest but will be maintained at a sustainable density. Once the standing dead trees are surgically removed, we will be able to replant and manage saplings and stump resprouts to encourage well-spaced healthy trees for monarch roosts. Blue gums have a maximum height of 165 ft and are well suited to form the protected open interior preferred by the roosting monarchs.

Red ironbark (Eucalyptus sideraxylon) (present and proposed) is shorter than blue gum with a maximum height of 90 ft and is our preferred species for windbreaks. Red ironbark thrives at Ellwood and is more arid adapted than blue gum – even dense stands of red ironbark did not suffer drought mortality. Trees grow fast (approx. 3 ft/year) and the dense drooping branches provide excellent wind shelter.

Karri (Eucalyptus diversicolor) (proposed) will be planted to create emergent canopy trees among the recovering blue gums. It has a similar structure to blue gum, grows taller (210 ft), and is pre-adapted to a Mediterranean climate. A diverse overstory is a more resilient overstory.

Red river gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) (present) exist in Ellwood and will remain in place. These are tall emergent trees (150 ft at maximum) and have a more open canopy structure than blue gums.

Will all trees in the grove be managed for health and longevity or just those within the aggregation sites?

Yes, all trees in the grove will be managed for health and longevity. The Monarch Butterfly Habitat Management Plan defines the entire area as important for monarch overwintering habitat. The City will actively manage the forest to maintain the characteristics beneficial to the habitat, including widely spaced eucalyptus saplings and new trees.

How were the trees for the restoration sourced? Was a qualified forester involved in the process?

Eucalyptus trees will be sourced from Cal Poly under the direction of Matt Ritter, a eucalyptus expert. Native trees will be sourced from Santa Barbara Natives nursery, Cal Poly, and UCSB. The project team includes several ISA certified arborists.

Is the City following all the guidelines for planting trees?

The City is contracting with UCSB Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration for planting and establishment of trees and natives, with oversight by the City’s project team of biologists and International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborists. All regulatory requirements for planting and monitoring will be met.

What about the recent Edison tree removal?

We are in communication with SCE regarding their approved waiver to trim eucalyptus trees within their right of way. Our plan considers wind protection losses along the eastern boundary of Ellwood North.

The neighborhoods adjacent to the groves are at significant risk of fire. What fire risk reduction strategies are being taken and why is it taking so long? 

The City’s 2012 Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) identified the removal of dead and downed eucalyptus trees as critical for preventing potential catastrophic fire in Ellwood Mesa and the surrounding residential neighborhoods. City and Coastal Zone policies required additional study and measures to ensure protection of sensitive habitat for the monarch butterfly and other species. In 2017 our study team completed an inventory of dead and downed trees contributing to high fire and public safety risk, resulting in the closure of some trails within the grove. There was strong public opposition to large scale tree removal without a Monarch Butterfly Habitat Management Plan (MBHMP) so we directed our efforts to complete the MBHMP, which was approved by the City Council in 2019.

How will you protect monarch butterflies and other species during fuel reduction activities? What about the butterflies and other species that benefit from forest litter?

The City and its consulting team have carefully assessed monarch aggregation habitat and the vegetation treatments defined in the CWPP to develop a refined approach to reduce fire risk without harming the character and integrity of monarch aggregation sites. In fact, selective removal of dead wood is necessary to protect and strengthen the aggregation sites. Treatments in the CWPP were strategically modified and mapped to avoid resources including native plants, native trees, and active bird nests. Great care will be taken to remove dead eucalyptus trees and vegetation that create fire risk while retaining three types of dead wood that do not create fire risk and do provide wildlife habitat: snags or standing dead trees with cavities, large trunks in contact with the ground and in decomposition, and twigs gathered into a brush pile (wood rat middens).

How will the debris in the restoration area be removed?

Large trunks will be sectioned and left in place or moved away from locations that hinder public access and environmental health. Some will be repurposed for seating or natural trail barriers. Brush and branches up to 10” in diameter will be chipped and spread around the groves to enhance water retention and promote healthy trees. 

What are Fuel Reduction Zones?

Fuel reduction zones are the specific mapped areas that require different methods of vegetation treatment based on proximity to structures, aggregation sites, fuel loads, sensitive resources, and onsite evaluation by the Goleta City Project Manager, monarch butterfly biologists, and certified arborists.

What is defensible space?

Defensible space is the space between a structure and the wildland area or neighboring structures that, under normal conditions, creates a sufficient buffer to slow or halt the spread of a wildfire to a structure. Defensible space protects a structure from direct flame impingement, radiant heat, and some burning embers and is essential for structure survivability during wildfires. This zone within the 100-foot defensible space buffer is the highest priority for prescribed vegetation management. Neighboring property owners will be notified at least 30 days prior to scheduled vegetation management activities within 100’ of their property boundary. 

What kind of signs will be installed? Will they be going through the Design Review Board?

Signage will include trailhead kiosks at the main trail from the parking lot with trail maps, rules, and educational information; wayfinding directional signage at key locations in the grove; and interpretive signs in key areas near the monarch butterfly viewing areas. The Design Review Board saw preliminary signs in May 2022 (minutes) and will review the final designs when they are complete.

What design changes were made after the September/October 2022 workshops?

Based on community concerns:

• One bridge was eliminated
• The remaining bridge was changed from metal to wood construction with a lower profile and more natural look
• Benches will be made from fallen eucalyptus trees
• Plastic irrigation will be covered with wood chips
• The main parking lot kiosk height and width were reduced.  

What improvements are planned for the parking lot where most people start their walks?

Phase 1 Implementation includes information kiosks. Phase 2 will consider new native landscaping, fencing, and a permanent restroom.

Will the ADA accessible footbridge allow disabled access from parking to the viewing area?

We are making our best effort to improve trail conditions to allow full access to the viewing areas for people with disabilities. However, it is an unpaved trail in a natural area and there may be some limitations due to topography, Devereux Creek, and other obstacles. Accessible routes will be designated on the trail map available online and onsite.

How will you handle unleashed dogs / busloads of people from other areas / homeless encampments?

Public signage and trail improvements will encourage respectful use. Regulations regarding dogs will be posted. Doggie bags, waste and recycling bins will be installed at key locations. We hope that the good example of most visitors who care about the area will help moderate negative behavior by the few who don’t. Actions that are Illegal, unsafe or pose a risk of fire should be reported immediately to authorities by dialing 911.

Will signs include a phone number to call if we see issues or have concerns?

Yes, we will include a phone number for the Parks and Open Space Division, 805-562-5509 for non-emergency issues and concerns.

Questions, comments or ideas? We'd like to hear from you. Please contact the Parks and Open Space Division at ellwoodmesa@cityofgoleta.org