Near-surface, soil, and air temperature data acquired across multiple locations in the foothills of the Tehachapi mountains at Tejon Ranch, California, 2011-2017

These temperature records were collected as part of a larger study
relating microclimates to tree seedling survival in southern
California mountains. These temperature records are for studies in the
foothills of the Tehachapi mountains at Tejon Ranch (Lat 34.983, Long
-118.716, elevation 750-930 m, www.tejonranch.com). Temperature
sensors were located at 23 sites across the Tehachapi foothills. Sites
were selected to sample topographic variation in surface and air
temperatures within a narrow range of elevations on northeast to
southwest-facing slopes, ridges and valleys. To characterize surface
temperature variation within a site, 21 sensors were arranged in an
identical pattern around and in six, 5x5 m experimental gardens. An
additional 18 sensors were placed along three transects over the
landscape running N-S. They were placed strategically to sample
topographic inflection points (hill tops and valley bottoms) as well
as north and south facing slopes. Temperatures were recorded on a 10
or 20-minute interval, depending on the sensor. using HOBO (Onset,
www.onsetcomp.com) devices.