Project:  Geomorphic, Hydrologic, and Biological Assessment of Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Client:  United States Fish and Wildlife Service Date:  Project completed April 2006. Site Location:   Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately 70 miles northwest of Las Vegas and approximately 35 miles east of Death Valley National Park.  Ash Meadows harbors numerous plant, fish, and invertebrate species that are found nowhere else in the world.

King's Pool at Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.

Project Summary:
The purpose of the geomorphic and biologic assessment of Ash Meadows is to obtain information regarding the current geomorphic and biologic state of the refuge necessary in order to 1) assess the restoration potential of the springs, spring channels, and Carson Slough and 2) propose restoration recommendations.

Prior to the establishment of the refuge, the area was modified and developed for agricultural purposes.  Spring sources were excavated and diverted for agricultural use.  Many spring outflow channels were eliminated due to spring source diversion.  One goal for the refuge is to restore spring sources and outflow channels and associated riparian habitat.  In order to accomplish this goal, the primary restoration actions include 1) returning spring flows from former agricultural diversion and drainage systems to natural drainage networks, 2) removing hydrologic alterations such as berms, impoundments, and levees, 3) and controlling and eradicating invasive plant and animal species such as tamarisk, knapweed, star thistle, bass, convict cichlid, crayfish, and bullfrog.

Project Update:
Project completed April 2006.

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