Deep rocky canyons and bald summits characterize the mountains of the Santa Theresa Wilderness, managed by the USFS. Chaparral scrub dominates the vegetation with ponderosa pine forests on the high ridges. Cottonwood Peak, the tallest peak in the range, supports a stand of Douglas fir along its north slope. The remote nature of this COA lends itself to sensitive wildlife species with a preference for isolation. This wilderness area offers critical linkages to other adjacent mountain ranges including the Pinelaño and Galiuro mountains.
Conservation Goals
- Maintain the unfragmented nature of the wilderness area to help ensure connectivity between quality wildland blocks.
Map
Primary Threats
7. Human Intrusions and Disturbance
9. Natural System Modifications
Potential Conservation Actions
3. Species Management
- Survey the influential species (when possible) within the chaparral habitat to minimize negative impacts to habitat and associated species.
- Conduct surveys and monitor populations of SGCN as specified in work plans and job statements.
2. Land and Water Management
- Restore historical fire regimes to promote ecological resilience.
- Ensure permeability of wildlife corridors throughout the wilderness area to maintain connectivity with adjacent open spaces.
- Protect and restore areas adversely affected by off-road vehicles and other recreational activities.
4. Education and Awareness
- Improve education and awareness of the impacts of irresponsible recreational activities, especially OHV use, in chaparral habitats.
5. Law and Policy
- Monitor and enforce compliance with management practices to reduce impacts of recreational activities, especially the use of OHV.
Habitats Present
Strategy Species
Amphibians
Birds
American Peregrine Falcon, Chipping Sparrow, Common Black Hawk, Gilded Flicker, Golden Eagle, Harris's Hawk, Mexican Spotted Owl, Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet, Northern Flicker
Invertebrates
Mammals
Cave Myotis, Greater Western Mastiff Bat, Lesser Long-nosed Bat, Pale Townsend's Big-eared Bat, Western Yellow Bat
Reptiles
Black-necked Gartersnake, Gila Monster, Madrean Alligator Lizard
Fish
See Associated Aquatic COAs for fish species.
Protected Areas and Other Areas of Conservation Value
- Santa Teresa Wilderness Area
Potential Partners
- Coronado National Forest
- Bureau of Land Management
Relevant Conservation Plans
- No associated Conservation Plans
Associated Aquatic COAs
- No associated Aquatic COAs