The native plants present throughout much of the acreage support many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians (see animals). The Center's Columbian black-tailed deer represent one of the most intensively-studied deer populations on the West Coast. Other species which have received significant research attention include meadow voles, deer mice, bobcats and coyotes. The study of the ecology and behavior of predators receives continuing emphasis because of their impact on livestock. In addition, insects and other arthropods of medical and veterinary importance have been a main focus of field studies, with particular emphasis on mosquitoes and ticks and their epidemiological roles.
Techniques developed at Hopland for managing North Coast rangelands by introduction of subterranean clover, and fertilization with essential nutrients, have significantly increased forage productivity and quality. Other research has included plant response to grazing, fire, and other management strategies. The role of native hardwoods, especially oaks, has received recent attention, with emphasis on sustainable management of valley oak and blue oak. Plantings of winegrapes and pears provide opportunities for closely-monitored variety trials, studies of plant productivity, and development of strategies for controlling insect pests and plant diseases.