Region Described as an Interacting System. Natural Process Inventory. Part A. Task 1

摘要

This description of the natural environment of the San Francisco Bay Region of California covers its physiography, geology, climate, hydrology, soils, and vegetation. It is the first of six tasks which make up the environmental impact assessment of the Regional Transportation Plan. The delicate ecosystems of the marshes and of the redwood forest areas are described in detail. The effects of air, water, and noise pollution are summarized in a series of tables. Charts identify the agricultural commodities and ornamental plants most susceptible to various air pollutants -- sulphur dioxide, ozone, peroxyacetyl nitrate (generally known as PAN), smog, and fluorides. Common sources of both air and water pollutants are given and symptoms of poisoning in vegetation are listed. Because of the earthquake - prone nature of the area, this transportation plan considers soil stability; an in - depth analysis of the area points out dangerous formations as well as areas of relative stability. The suitability of land for agricultural use is also assessed. This study created a series of one - of - a - kind maps which plot geological, hydrological, and vegetation data as a series of ''danger zones.'' The maps are not included, but the commentary is, giving a county - by - county assessment of the area's environmental stability. Each chapter has references appended.