While most of Duncan is covered with dense forest, there are also extensive slopes of open chaparral, striking patches of exposed ash and mudflow from ancient volcanic activity and huge outcrops of rock over 220 million years old.

This 9000-plus acre area contains a wide variety of habitats but is dominated by large continuous stretches of old growth forest. This forest consists mainly of Red and White Fir with many huge Sugar Pines, Incense-cedars and Yellow Pines as well. Streamside forests of conifers and hardwoods, dappled with shrubs and small plants, are found all along Duncan Creek and it tributary streams. The numerous seeps and springs that dot the north slopes of Red Star ridge create lush micro-environments that support dense thickets of Mountain Alder, extensive patches of Bracken Fern and a dizzying variety of grasses and forbs.

Duncan Canyon supports a wide spectrum of Sierra wildlife. This includes rare and declining old growth-dependent species like California Spotted Owl and Pacific Fisher as well as common species like Mule Deer, which use Duncan Canyon as a prime fawning ground.

American River Wildlands needs your protection.
Get involved, contact American River Wildlands to find out how.
(916) 557-1100 Ext. 108 — arwildlands@aol.com

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