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.