The Elfin Forest Natural Area covers 90 acres (36 ha) that have been acquired by The Los Osos / Morro Bay Chapter of Small Wilderness Area Preservation (SWAP) since 1988.[3] The land was accepted by and now belongs to San Luis Obispo County Parks and California State Parks.[1][3] The transfer's acceptance by the agencies was based on ongoing active stewardship by SWAP, which continues to the present day under the new name of Friends of El Moro Elfin Forest.[4] The nature preserve opened to the public in 1994.
Natural history
The native Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) trees compose an elfin forest, in a naturally harsh location with poor soil conditions, salt spray, and constant winds, that have stunted and directed their growth. They now compose a woodland of trees, with the largest between 200 and 400 years old, and range from a height of 20 feet (6.1 m) in sheltered areas to a low of 4 feet (1.2 m) near the tallest ridge line.[5]
The Elfin Forest supports more than 200 species of plants, 51 species of lichens, as well as 110 kinds of birds, 22 species of mammals, and 13 species of reptiles and amphibians.[1][6]
Access
A nearly 1 mile (1.6 km) boardwalk loop, constructed in 1999 to protect the Elfin Forest's sensitive habitats, provides access for wheelchair users.[1] Viewpoint sections along it have expansive overlooks over Morro Bay and the sand dunes spit, and the diverse bird species in the estuary.[7]
