Restoring oak woodland

[Anonymous]

As I've been reading other messages, I saw the mention of the book in which the author speculated about what an area of the East Bay might have looked like pre-Europeans.Does anyone know of a resource that will handle this topic very specifically in reference to Central Oak Woodland communities? There is absolutely no land I've found that seems to have evaded the annual grasses, so I cannot find any indigenous oak understory. All sources I've read talk in general terms, i.e. perennial grasses, forbsduh. Thanks.-Leslie</p>

[Anonymous]

Leslie - I would have to wade through a stack of papers from my thesis to pin down actual citations but find historic photos as far back as yo can and journals of the missionaries to eaarly california or anything else written by early soldiers or travelers. Sorry I can't be of more us to you right now. Ben</p>

[Anonymous]

Leslie:

I know it has been quite a while since you posted your message, but I happened to encounter it today and can tell you there is an incredible source of info at www.laspilitas.com. My personal opinion is that the owner, Bert Wilson, is one of the most competent restoration ecologists in California. I speak from experience, being in the business myself. In general, note that oak companion plants often include member of the following genuses geni?: Ribes, Lonicera, Rhamnus, Keckiella, Diplacus Mimulus, Salvia, and many more. Annual grasses DO NOT belong under oaks and in fact are killing them!</p>