The Granite Mountain Reserve's (GMR) topographic relief and ecotonal location in the eastern Mojave Desert account for an exceptionally diverse arid-zone flora and fauna with elements from several biogeographic sources. The area has long attracted field research, and GMR now supports 19 projects concentrated in behavior, ecology, physiology, and evolution. Present research is constrained by an almost complete lack of living and laboratory facilities. A growing demand for pristine and protected sites in arid habitats of the southwest, due to converging trends of population increase, habitat loss, and interest in desertification, further indicates the value of establishing a stand-alone field research station at GMR. This project,coupled with matching funds from the University, will allow construction of: 1) a basic laboratory with equipment for shared use, 2) housing for up to 6 researchers, 3) a campground for visiting researchers, and 4) utilities for the above. These facilities will allow a broader range of research activities, boost efficiency and productivity, and establish GMR as a cost-effective site for a variety of modern field studies. The Granite Mountains Reserve is among the most recently established of the 26 University of California Natural Reserves, whose goal is to facilitate education and research of scientists from all disciplines and institutions.
