Sidalcea pedata, is a narrow endemic restricted to wet mountain meadows of the Big Bear Valley in Southern California. It is estimated that 20 acres of less of habitat now exists for this endangered plant species, much of it unprotected and threatened by urban development. A defensible reserve design is urgently needed for this species, for prioritizing habitat protection and managing protected habitat. However, key biological attributes of this species must be identified, before a reserve design can be developed. The focus of this project is to better understand the pollination biology of this endangered plant species for conservation planning and reserve design issues.
Support of this project is expected to result in an increased level of student participation in this research. It is planned most of the student assistance funds to support a small research project for an undergraduate student, or perhaps two, who will participate in the McNair Scholars Program on campus. Entering into an agreement with the San Bernardino National Forest is likely to benefit Cal Poly students in terms of possible future job opportunities and internships.