JOSHUA TREE JOURNAL Published by the Joshua Tree Natural History Association

SPRING/SUMMER, 1989 WILDFLOWERS WHEN AND WHERE Richard Hadley Park Naturalist The extent and timing of spring suggest that you check with Joshua wildflower blooms may vary greatly Tree National Monument by tele­ from one year to the next in the Cali­ phone for an updated forecast. (Call fornia deserts. Blooms are dependent 619 367-7511). upon a mutliplicity of inter-related en­ Below are charts which will further vironmental factors, amongst which assist you in understanding flowering winter precipitation and spring temp­ seasons for the California deserts and CACTUS WREN: A common year-round resident. Its call has eratures are key. Joshua Tree National Monuments. In general, spring flowering begins Flowering seasons been described as sounding like a rusty metal bucket that has as temperatures rise — first at lower within altitude range been kicked down a rocky slope. elevations in February and later at higher elevations in March and April. On mountain tops above 5,000 feet CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT blooms are as late as June. Spectacular desert blooms occur on AT JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL an average about once every twenty years and are spread out evenly be­ MONUMENT tween December and March. The Dennis Vasquez spring of 1988 was one of these years, On New Year's Day of this year, the Other common birds which visitors with exceptional blooms occurring at San Bernardino Valley Chapter of the could expect to see during the winter all elevations throughout the Monu­ National Audubon Society conducted season include: Red-tailed Hawks, ment and the greater Mojave and the Christmas Bird Count at Joshua Gambel's Quail, Horned Larks, Scrub Colorado Desert ecosystems. Tree National Monument for the Jays, Ravens, Cactus Wrens, Juncos, While it is not likely that such a twentieth consecutive year. On this Black-throated Sparrows, Mocking­ bloom will occur in two consecutive cool, breezy day, a total of 2031 indivi­ birds and Phainopeplas. Other species years, it could happen. However, it is dual birds of 51 species were observ­ which are fairly common in proper more likely that a moderate-to-low ed. Brian Prescott, coordinator of the habitat are Anna's Hummingbird, flowering will take place in 1989, since event, explained that the annual Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Verdin, precipitation through the fall and ear­ count consists of recording the num­ Yellow-rumped Warbler and Ruby- ly winter has been low. ber of birds of each species seen with­ crowned Kinglet. For more definite predictions, we in a 15-mile diameter circle on a single One of the winter residents for day within two weeks of Christmas. which Joshua Tree has become well- These systematic bird counts, which known among birders is the Le- take place throughout North Conte's Thrasher. In fact, in the 1987 America, Latin America and Bird Count, more LeConte's Thrash­ numerous Pacific Islands, provide ers were seen in Joshua Tree than valuable information about winter anywhere else in the country. population trends of individual The Christmas Bird Count, or­ species and monitor changes in rela­ ganized in 1900 by the National Audu­ tive abundance of species over large bon Society, is one of the oldest co­ geographic areas. operative research projects with over The local bird census is centered on 1500 counts having been conducted. Queen Mountain in the northern part The annual event at Joshua Tree is an of the monument and includes Lost example of two organizations, the Na­ Horse Valley. Queen Valley, Barker tional Park Service and the Audubon Dam, White Tank, Indian Cove, the Society, cooperating functions of the Oasis of Mara, and the town of National Park Service is to monitor Twentynine Palms. animal populations in order to deter­ Over the twenty year history of the mine their status. With the data that bird count, the most commonly seen has been collected of the past twenty birds have been the White-crowned years at Joshua Tree, we can analyze sparrow and the House Finch, and the status of local bird populations in they were abundant again this year. their winter habitat. JOSHUA TREE FLOWER: Can be seen in March and April. Page 2 Joshua Tree Journal Spring/Summer, 1989 AIR QUALITY IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL MONMUMENT Mark Hevston Physical Science Technician

National Park! The words conjure power generation, coal and oil fur­ NO readily oxidizes to nitrogen diox­ Because of their large size, they are up images of blue skies, clear water, naces and lead and copper smelting. ide. Like sulfates, oxides of nitrogen not transported great distances and green foliage, healthy wildlife and Seventy million tons of sulfur are can be transported long distances and tend to have composition of the local unique cultural resources. Indeed, na­ estimated to be released annually into they also interact with sunlight soils. tional parks are national treasures. the atmosphere from man-made producing yellow-brown haze over Particulates less than 2.5 micro­ Visitors to the national parks should sources. 60 percent from coal-fired large cities. Nitrogen oxides can ir­ meters are capable of traveling great­ expect pristine, scenic vistas during power generation. ritate your eyes, nose and throat and er distances by wind. Most of these their visit to these national treasures. are injurious to plant structure and enter the atmosphere as industrial In recent years, however, the Sulfur dioxide is very corrosive to growth. smoke stack effluents. Particulates in­ scenic vistas and natural and cultural stone, paint, and metals. Sulfur diox­ terfere with the wavelengths of sun­ ide also aggravates existing respira­ 3. Ozone (03): In the atmosphere, the light, severely reducing visibility by resources in Joshua Tree National reaction of sunlight with nitrogen ox­ Monument have been disturbed by air tory diseases and contributes to the forming haze. development of these conditions in ides and hydrocarbons from industrial Visibility Monitoring pollution. The permanent residents of sources produces 03. Ozone has detri­ Joshua Tree N.M., plants and animals, humans. Plant species sensitive to at­ To monitor the visibility at Joshua mospheric S02 include Douglas fir, mental effects on your eyes and lungs Tree N.M., a station is equipped with are showing signs of stress directly and aggravates asthma. Ozone also resulting from air pollution. ponderosa pine, white pine, and forest a fixed camera which automatically shrubs. Various crops are also affect­ causes damage to some plant species Since air pollution monitoring be­ takes pictures three times daily year ed, including alfalfa, grains, squash, including eastern white pine, ponder­ round. Located on a high vista point, gan at Joshua Tree about seven years cotton, grapes, and apples. osa pine, Jeffrey pine and hardwoods. ago, subsequent biological monitoring the camera is focused on a pass in the is producing increasing evidence of in­ Sulfur dioxide ultimately trans­ Eagle Mountains, 30 miles distant. 4. Carbon monoxide (CO): Due to its The visual contrast of the pictures jury to certain native plants found forms in the atmosphere into sul­ unstable nature, CO is usually a here. phates which are very fine particles provide day to day and seasonal ob­ localized air pollution problem. In servations of visual range at Joshua Air pollution problems are not measuring less than 2.5 millionths of a nature, CO is formed during plant res­ limited to parks near urban sources. meter in diameter. Due to this small Tree N.M. On the average visibility piration and forest fires. On a much across the Monument ranges from 71 Joshua Tree's location downwind of size, sulfates can be transported over larger scale CO is produced by in­ Southern California population cen­ very long distances in the atmosphere miles in summer to 162 miles in win­ complete combustion of the carbon in ter. ters subjects it to unacceptably high and are most effective at scattering fuels used in vehicles, coal and oil fur­ levels of airborne pollutants, particu­ light in the atmosphere. The light naces, and in smelters and steel pro­ Ozone Monitoring larly in summer months. Air pollution scattering ability of sulfates causes duction. CO is toxic to all animals, Ozone monitoring is accomplished from these coastal population centers visibility reduction. which includes humans, starving the by the use of an automated monitor­ ing station located within the Monu­ is transferred to Joshua Tree from up 2. Nitrogen Dioxide (N02): The large body of needed oxygen. to 150 miles away. ment. Utilizing an ultra-violet ab­ amounts of energy released during sorption technique, this system can Recent findings by the National lighting strikes oxidize atmospheric 5. Particulate matter: This can be de­ Park Serve (NPS) indicates that all of detect ozone content in the air at nitrogen resulting in nitrogen oxide fined as minute solid particles found levels in the parts per hundred million the parks in the lower 48 states suffer (NO). The man-made sources of NO in the atmosphere. Particles larger to some degree from reduced visi­ range. This station monitors continu­ are vehicle emissions, as well as coal- than 2.5 micrometers (millionths of a ously around the clock, 365 days a bility due to man-made pollutants at fired power generation. In sunlight, meter) are general soil related dust. least 90 percent of the time. Pollution year. Ozone episodes at levels known also enters our personal lives, affect­ to be harmful to certain plants, ing our individual health and well animals and humans occur all too fre­ being. quently during summer months. Levels as high as .170 parts per mil­ THE AIR lion have been observed here, while Anyone who has played the game of ambient ozone levels seem to run in holding their breath knows how im­ the .040 to .080 range. portant air is to our well being. Be­ cause the air we breathe comes to us Biological Effects through the earth's atmosphere, it Monitoring naturally contains moisture and solid Located adjacent to the zone moni­ particulates. These enter the atmos­ toring station is a large garden (bio- phere as a result of natural processes monitoring plot) planted with a varie­ such as evaporation from lakes and ty of plants native to the Monument. streams, volcanic eruptions, lightning Many of these plants have a proven strikes, forest fires, dust storms, sea susceptibility to ozone injury and are spray and release of pollen. Although closely monitored during periods of these natural pollutants affect the col­ high ozone for symptoms of injury. If or, taste, and smell of our air, the ef­ symptoms are observed, field obser­ fects of man-made pollution often vations of the same plant type are overwhelm those of nature. Man- made to see if injury is occurring in made pollutants are of great concern situ. to many people and organizations, in­ Observed injury to Monument cluding the National Park Service. plant life is documented with photo­ The NPS is concerned about the graphs, notes and plant tissue following air pollutants which are samples. Symptoms of ozone injury to linked to effects on park resources. Rhus Trilobata (squawbush) have These pollutants, their sources, and been observed in the Monument, both their effect are described below. in the biomonitoring plot and in the 1. Sulfur Dioxide (S02): Sulfur dioxide field. It is hoped that continued study is one of the most significant pollu­ of this and other air pollution effects tants in the atmosphere. Released na­ will lead to a clearer understanding of turally into the environment by biolo­ the risk air pollution poses to Joshua gical decay and volcanic activity, its THE BIO-MONITORING PLOT: Where symptoms of possi­ Tree National Monument and its re­ man-made sources include coal-fired ble ozone injury to native plants can be observed. sources. Spring/Summer, 1989 Joshua Tree Journal Page 3

THE WEATHER JOSHUA TREE WEATHER Average Average Bob Raver Maximum Minimum Weather patterns around Joshua Average Average Tree National Monument usually dif­ Month Temperature Teperature Precipitation Humidity fer from those experienced on the Cal­ ifornia Coast; however, they are close­ JANUARY 62.0 35.1 .49 30.7 ly related. We often get calls from people living in the Los Angeles area FEBRUARY 67.2 38.3 .31 25.0 inquiring about the status of the MARCH 72.5 42.0 .35 21.2 weather in Joshua Tree National Monument. Usually, these calls are APRIL 80.7 48.9 made during periods of stormy .10 17.8 weather when people are looking for a MAY 89.9 56.6 .07 14.6 place to escape to drier conditions. JUNE 99.1 64.2 .02 132 Lying just a few miles west of Joshua Tree National Monument is the San Bernardino Mountain Range. JULY 104.7 71.5 .66 17.9 This 11,000 foot range (located just AUGUST 102.8 70.2 .73 20.0 east of San Bernardino) effectively SEPTEMBER 96.7 63.4 .46 172 reduces the amount of moisture that passes east of its peaks. Precipitation west of the San Bernardinos averages OCTOBER 84.5 52.7 .36 19.9 13 inches per year, but east of the NOVEMBER 712 41.5 .31 29.9 range is reduced to 4 inches. DECEMBER 63.1L 36.0 The weather experienced in the .51 35.8 Los Angeles area can be used to pre­ dict the weather at Joshua Tree Na­ This information has been compiled from records maintained during the 50-year period tional Monument. If Los Angeles re­ from 1936 through 1985. ceives a light to moderate storm, most • likely Joshua Tree National Monu­ ment will remain dry. Whereas, if Los The readings are taken at Twentynine Palms Oasis at an elevation of 1960 feet, at the Angeles experiences a heavy or pro­ higher elevations in Joshua Tree National Monument, temperatures will average longed storm system, the Monument approximately eleven degrees lower. Higher altitudes average about 3.5 inches more of will get rain or possibly snow in the winter. precipitation annually. Page 4 Joshua Tree Journal Spring/Summer, 1989 WHERE TO HIKE WITH BABIES AND SMALL CHILDREN Caryn Davidson "To speak truly, few adult persons can see nature. Most persons do not see the sun. At least they have a very superficial seeing. The sun illuminates only the eye of the man, but shines into the eye and heart of the child. The lover of nature is he whose inward and outward senses are still truly adjusted to each other, who has retained the spirit of infancy even into the ear of manhood." ..Ralph Waldo Emerson "Nature" from Selected Essays Hiking with babies and small One way to manage a hike with a Ranger Station. Water is also avail­ are located in different areas on the children is a very different ex­ very young baby is to carry her in a able at Black Rock Canyon and Indian Monument; among rock formations in perience from hiking alone or with front pack. This allows you greater Cove Campgrounds. During the the Mojave Desert, through a cactus other "adult persons." Although some freedom in selecting a trail, since warmer months, sunscreen and hats garden in the Colorado Desert, into a special preparations are needed, it strollers are confined to paved roads are strongly advised especially for pinon pine/juniper habitat, and down presents us with a unique opportunity (two of the trails dsicussed in this arti­ babies whose delicate skin can easily again into a palm oasis. In discovering to slacken our pace and to see nature cle are paved.) Backpacks with frames burn. An extra cotton blanket often these trails with your children I hope in new ways. are nice for older children, who do not comes in handy, as it can serve as pad­ usually mind not seeing their parents that you will rediscover the wonder of ding for wobbly heads, a sunshade, or what surrounds us here in Joshua Most babies love to go for walks. faces for part of the trip. for warmth when the weather cools The change of scenery viewed from a It is important for all hikers in the off. Tree National Monument. By enjoy­ pack or a gliding stroller makes an Monument to bring along plenty of ing our childrens' special perspective, adventure of even the smallest water, as it is available only at the I have chosen six trails that are par­ we may appreciate their wisdom in outing. And babies can easily be made Oasis Visitor Center, Cottonwood ticularly pleasent to travel with placing the emphasis on what they comfortable so that they (and you) can Visitors Center, The West Entrance children. These range in length from observe and not on the number of relax and enjoy these adventures. Ranger Station and at Lost Horse 1/4 mile to a little over one mile, and miles they cover. NATURE TRAILS Spring/Summer, 1989 Joshua Tree Journal Page 5 INDIAN COVE OASIS OF MARA CAP ROCK NATURE TRAIL NATURE TRAIL NATURE TRAIL (0.6 mi) (0.53 mi) (0.325 mi) Towards the east end of the Indian desert tortoises, who seem to like In­ The Oasis of Mara (also known as If the Michelin Guide rated nature Cove Campground loop is the dian Cove. If you do spot one, please trails then the Cap rock trail would trailhead for the Indian Cove Nature observe it quietly from a distance. Twentynine Palms Oasis, from which the town of Twentynine Palms receiv­ certainly be a four-star attraction. As Trail. This easy trail follows a desert You may be surprised by how fast far as suitability for infants and tod­ wash for much of the walk — trail these desert tortoises can move when ed its name) was once a popular gathering place for several tribes of dlers is concerned, it is a near perfect markers point the way when the wash out looking for food, and especially by place. Built as a wheelchair-accessible seems to fan out in all directions. how fast they may eat when they find Indians including the Serrano and Chemehuevi tribes. nature trail, it is one of the few paved Identification plaques describe the a clump of delectable wildflowers. trails in the Monument, making it ac­ vegetation, which includes beavertail Remember not to disturb these The nature trail that goes through the oasis is paved. It is an easy excur­ cessible both to strollers and to and hedgehog cactus. These plants animals — they are protected by wheelchairs. are spectacular when in bloom, which state law. sion from town and a fine introduction to the rest of the Monument. It is also is approximately from April through There are good bouldering areas The trail loops through an outcrop June. Springtime brings out many along the trail, but, as with any off- a good complement to a trip to the Visitors Center, which houses a of quarts monzonite rock, making it a wildflowers, and the recent displays trail hike in the Monument, it is a fun spot for older children who may in Indian Cove have been dazzling. good idea not to wander too far into number of displays including a five- minute slide show describing the want to try their hand at rock Look for: Arizona lupine, Chia, desert new territory without stopping fre­ scrambling. An enjoyable game that mallow and the paper-bag bush. quently to orient oneself by noting natural history of the Monument, and many specimens of the area's wildlife. can be played throughout the nor­ landmarks and any prominent thern area of the Monument is "Name A pamphlet, available at the begin­ Along the trail, keep an eye out for features ir he landscape. That Rock." The Monument is loaded ning of the trail, describes the natural with dramatic and bizarre rock forma­ and cultural histories of the oasis. It is tions that can be imaginatively not uncommon to sight a roadrunner, described, much as one might do desert cottontail or family of quail while gazing at cloud formations. along this trail. The abundant wildlife There are lots of rocks, beyond Cap HI VIEW is something all children can enjoy, Rock, Skull Rock, etc. that have yet to and the pavement make it accessible be named. to babies in strollers as well as stroll­ NATURE TRAIL (1.3 mi) ing toddlers. Cap Rock Nature trail offers some rock-provided shade during the sum­ Black Rock Canyon Campground, trail in one's arms is not recommend­ mer, but is more pleasant during the once known as "Jellystone Park" ed as it is somewhat strenuous fall and spring. There are plaques before its acquisition by the National because of the sharp ascent in some BARKER along the trail identifying the vegeta­ Park Service, is situated among pinon parts. At the top, you will find ben­ tion and describing the geology of the pines and junipers that grow side-by- ches and a register where you can DAM area. For ease, accessibility and beau­ side with Joshua Trees. The Hi View record your conquest of a desert ty, this trail caps my list of favorites Nature Trail begins from the parking mountain. The descent is more gentle, (1.1 mi) to explore with infants or toddling lot to the northwest of Black Rock Ca­ winding through a small canyon and hikers-to-be. nyon Campground. Of the hikes then following a wash, eventually re­ The Barker Dam trail is good for described this one is at the highest joining the beginning of the trail. older children and for parents who elevation and consequently gives one are not daunted by some simple rock This is probably the most physical­ scrambling while sporting a baby the feeling of being up in the ly challenging of the six trails I have mountains. pack. There is no danger involved, on­ CHOLLA CACTUS described and care should be taken to ly a little redistribution of baby's The chilly weather during the mon­ prepare in advance (as on all hikes) by weight as you jog through some nar­ GARDEN (0.25 mi) ths of December through February bringing water, hats, and wearing row rock passages. The trail brings This nature trail is a short, level requires a bit of bundling up, but the good closed walking shoes. After your you to Barker Dam, which was built to dirt path that loops through a natural view from the top, near Summit Peak hike, you may want to see the Visitors collect water for the cattle of the ear­ patch of Bigelow cholla or "Teddy (elevation 4500 ft.) makes this hike Center at Black Rock Canyon Camp­ ly ranchers. It is a good spot for bird- Bear" cactus. Although its nickname well worth the trek up the mountain. ground where there are exhibits of watching, and junior birders may see may conjure up images of Care Bears, This is a moderately steep hike, wildflowers, local mining operations many species found only in that part the Teddy Bear (or "jumping") cholla with a climb in elevation of 300 feet. A and wildlife of the area. A pamphlet, of the Monument. The dam lies within is to be treated with the utmost cau­ backpack may be more comfortable describing the flora and scenery along the area known as the Wonderland or tion and respect. It may look cuddly than a front pack for carrying small the trail, can be obtained here before Rocks, and more good rock scrambl­ from afar, but once its needles attach passengers. Carrying babies up this your hike. ing can be found here — but please themselves, it is a delicate and often caution inexperienced scramblers painful task to try to remove them. against venturing too far into the Therefore chUdren should be super­ jumbles of look-alike rocks. vised closely while they are out on HELP PROTECT If you take the loop trail to get back this trail, which is an otherwise to the parking lot, you will pass a wonderful place to explore with them. group of Indian pictographs. These There is a brochure available in the JOSHUA TREE prehistoric rock paintings, although information box at the start of the authentic, were "enhanced" by a film trail that will help you pick out the crew some years ago. Children can be well-camouflaged homes of the many NATIONAL MONUMENT made aware of the Indian history of packrats that inhabit the garden, as the area if these pictographs, as well well as other wildlife and vegetation AGAINST VANDALISM as other evidence of pre-European that characterize the Colorado culture (such as mortar holes in the Desert. See how many bird's nests you can find, of the many that are Joshua Tree National Monument is people involved, the location and the bed-rock near these pictographs) are pointed out to them. rj/ carefully constructed among the a superb natural area with numerous nature of the vandalism and report prickly branches of the cholla cactus. historic resources and plenty of re­ immediately to the nearest ranger This is the only walk mentioned in creational opportunities for all to en­ station, visitor center , or entrance this article located in the low desert joy. Unfortunately, vandalism is an station. If you witness vandalism or portion of the Monument. Here, the ever-growing problem in our national disorderly conduct after hours, please rock formations and Joshua Trees of parks. Please help protect the natural go to the nearest phone and call the the high desert have given way to the and cultural resources by reporting to San Bernardino Dispatch Center large open expanses and ocotillo of any visitor center or ranger station if (collect for emergencies) at (714) the Colorado Desert. The Cholla Cac­ you observe damage. If you observe 383-5651 and a Ranger will be sent out tus Garden nature Trail is a fine place vandalism as it occurs, please write immediately. You can also dial 911 in for exploring the low desert and for down the license number of vehicles emergencies. Thank you for your help experiencing the unique contrasts it near the scene, descriptions of the in protecting the national parks. provides to the Mojave Desert por­ tion of the Monument to the north. Page 6 Joshua Tree Journal Spring/Summer, 1989 SOME HIKING TRAILS IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL MONUMENT

ESTIMATED ROUND TRIP HIKING TRAIL STARTING POINT DISTANCE TIME TRAIL DESCRIPTION

49 Palms Oasis Parking area on Canyon 2.8 miles 2-3 hours Several stands of fan palms, evidence of Road, 4 miles west of 29 past fires, and pools of water are found at Palms off Highway 62 the Oasis. Moderately strenuous.

Ryan Mountain Ryan Mountain Parking 3.0 miles 2-3 hours Elev. 5470 feet. View of Lost Horse, Queen Area or Sheep Pass and Pleasant Valleys. Strenuous. Campground

Lost Horse Mine/ Parking area 1.2 miles 3.5 miles 3-4 hours Elev. 5178 feet. Ten stamp mill and founda­ Mountain east of Keys View Rd. tions. Moderately strenuous.

Lost Palms Cottonwood Spring 7.5 miles 4-6 hours A canyon with many groups of palms. A or Campground 8.5 miles side trip to Victory Palms and Munsen Canyon involves boulder scrambling. Stre­ nuous.

Mastodon Peak Cottonwood Spring 3.0 miles 2 hours Elev. 3371 feet. Fine views of Hexie Mts., or Campground 4.0 miles Pinto Basin and Salton Sea. Moderately strenuous.

Scout Trail Indian Cove area or lh 13 miles 1-2 days Scenic trail through the western-most edge mi. east of Quail of the Wonderland of Rocks. Strenuous. Springs Picnic Area

Thirty-five miles of the California Riding and Hiking Trail pass through the Monument. Access to the trail is available at its junction with Covington Flat, Key's View, and Squaw Tank (Geology Tour) Roads, at two places along Park Route NO. 1, and at Ryan Campground. This allows for shorter hikes of 4, 6.7 or 11 miles. Two to three days are required to hike the entire length of the trail.

JOIN THE JOSHUA TREE NATURAL BOOKS FOR SALE HISTORY ASSOCIATION Price • Joshua Tree National You will receive Monument, a Visitor's Guide $5.00 A membership card • An Archaeological Survey of the Twentynine Palms Region $5.00 A 15% discount on all publications sold by the Association. Q Joshua Tree: Clip and mail with a check or money order for $8.00 Desert Reflections $2.00

TO: JOSHUA TREE NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION Natural and human history with many color photos 74485 National Monument Drive Association members deduct 15% Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 To order: Name Joshua Tree Natural History Association Address 74485 National Monument Drive Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 City Make Checks or money orders payable to Joshua Tree Natural History Associaton. State Zip Code Include 6% sales tax and $2.00 for shipping and handling. Spring/Summer, 1989 Joshua Tree Journal Page 7 SPRING SEASON SAMUELSON'S ROCKS GUIDED ACTIVITIES The Park Visitor Centers are open from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. through­ out the season. Beginning February 16, a limited schedule of ranger guided activities will be offered on weekends throughout the Spring, in­ cluding naturalist walks and campfire programs. Consult campground bul­ letin boards and visitor centers for current schedules. The guided tours of the Desert Queen Ranch will be offered on Satur­ days and Sundays at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. beginning February 18. The tours are offered by the Joshua Tree Natural History Association at a charge of $2.00 for adults and $1.00 for children ages 6 to 15. Tours meet at the gate to Keys' Ranch, a short distance from the Hidden Valley Campground. Astronomy programs featuring telescopic viewing of the desert night skies will be held at Cottonwood Springs and the Hidden Valley Picnic Area on the nights of April 8, April 29 and May 27. For program times and topics, con­ tact the Oasis Visitor Center or Check JOHN SAMUELSON: homesteaded near Quail Spring around 1927. With these inscriptions campground bulletin boards. chiseled on boulders he expressed his bitterness at the hard times of the Great Depression. HIKING IN THE INFORMATION FOR CAMPERS The campgrounds are maintained for your enjoyment. With your cooperation, we BLACKROCK AREA can keep them clean and attractive. In order to keep ths area in its natural condition, Hiking in Joshua Tree National this trail takes 3-4 hours. Return by all vegetation, even that which is down and dead, is protected. Bring your own water Monument is often by following a the same route, by the Riding and and firewood or fuel. If you run out of water, it can be obtained at the Twentynine wash in the general direction you Hiking Trail from Covington Flat Palms Visitor Center, Indian Cove Ranger Station, or at the Cottonwood want to go or just by going cross­ Road, or drive to Eureka Peak park­ Campground. country, not necessarily by estab­ ing area for pick up, or drive up and lished trails as many of us are accus­ hike back, elevation change of 1,518 All campgrounds contain tables, fireplaces, and pit-type toilets, except Cotton­ tomed to. feet. wood and Black Rock Canyon, which have flush toilets. There are no light, water, or sewer connections for trailers. Camping is limited to 14 days between October 1st Black Rock Canyon Covington Flats and June 1st During the summer months, camping is limited to 30 days. Some of the From the trailhead sign at the From trailhead at the campground campground entrance, go south-east a entrance, follow the California Riding rules and regulations of most particular concern to campers are listed on another short distance, then south along Black & Hiking Trail to Upper Covington sheet. A list of campgrounds follows (see informational folder for locations): Rock Canyon Wash. Or, start at the Flats Road near Eureka Peak parking upper south end of the campground. area. Follow it for about 5 miles, then Take the path 30 yards to the left of follow the road southeast for 2 and 1/2 NAME No. of SITES ELEV. DESCRIPTION the water tank. It is 1 and 1/2 miles miles to the Covington Flats trail- Belle Campground 20 3800' Sites among rock formations. board at the end of the road. Trail is White Tank Campground 20 3800' Sites among rock formations. (one-way — to Black Rock Spring (now Jumbo Rocks Campground 130 4400' Sites among large rock dry) and is an easy hike. Elevation dif­ marked by white posts. The Califor­ formations. ference 400 feet. The canyon con­ nia Riding & Hiking Trail continues Ryan Campground 27 4300' One of 2 campgrounds in which tinues on. on to Ryan, 18 miles, and 29 Palms, 35 horses are permitted. miles from Black Rock Canyon Camp­ Hidden Valley Campgrounc1 62 4200' Magnificent rock formations in Warren Peak ground. This moderate hike has an the Wonderland of Rocks. Go through Black Rock Canyon. elevation change of 1,180 feet. Aver­ Indian Cove Campground 110 3200' North edge of the Wonderland Where the canyon wash forks, keep age hiking time is 3-4 hours. of rocks. right. When the canyon fades out, the Indian Cove Group Camp 13 3200' Group sites may be reserved conical peak will be in view to the for organized groups by For Variety Ticketron. west. The hike is 3 miles one way, Hike up any wash that crosses your Sheep Pass Group Camp 6 4500' Same as above. with the last half mile being a steep path, or scramble up any peak you Cottonwood Group Camp 3 3000' Same as above.,, -*• scramble. Elevation change of 1,023 see. Some excellent views of the coun­ Black Rock Canyon 100 4000' $10.00Might/site. Hush feet. tryside and perhaps wildlife will be toilets and running water. your reward. Horses permitted at no extra Eureka Peak cost. From campground entrance, follow Cottonwood Campground 62 3000' $6.00/night/site. Hush toilets the California Riding & Hiking Trail and running water. southeast for 1 and 1/2 miles, then HIKE SAFELY AND take the south fork of the wash. One Developed sites designated for picnicking are located at Indian Cove and Cotton­ half mile up this wash take a smaller TELL SOMEONE wood. Undeveloped picnic sites are located throughout the Monument. wash to the right. The trail is marked WHERE YOU ARE GOING PLEASE REMEMBER TO LEAVE YOUR CAMPSITE AS YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND IT! by orange posts. Five miles (one way) Trailer dump stations available at Black Rock and Cottonwood Campgrounds. — and moderately strenuous hiking, Page 8 Joshua Tree Journal Spring/Stammer, 1989 DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP THE REVEGETATION OF JOSHUA TREE Melanie Spoo become what are called "nurse" As you drive through Joshua Tree plants, catching blowing seeds and National Monument you may notice protecting tiny, emerging seedlings, roads and pullouts from the 29 Palms to some degree, for rodents and other entrance to Geology Tour and Cotton­ herbivores and providing shade. wood that have been realigned, Other projects, such as old roads widened and made more safe. In an ef­ and the Oasis of Mara, will keep fort to reduce the visual impact of the Monument staff busy for many years. new construction the Park has been In addition to the paved road con­ involved in a roadside revegetation struction are 200 miles of old dirt project. roads, now in designated Wilderness The Mojave yucca (Yucca shide- Areas, that need to be visually dis­ gera) and Joshua Trees (Yucca brevi- guised in the coming years. folia) that have been replanted in the The Oasis of Mara, at the Vistor Queen Valley areas were salvaged Center, is unique among fan palm from the construction zones before oases in that it is located on an allu­ the road work began and held in a vial fan fault zone in contrast to the temporary holding nursery. Smaller usual canyon configurations. Sur­ trees and shrubs were grown in the rounded by desert and the extensive Monument's nursery from seeds or pressure of its position in an in­ cuttings obtained from plants within creasingly urban setting, it was de­ the Park. All plantings were put in cided that rehabilitation and ecosys­ during the winters of 1987 and 1988. tem management efforts be made to Due to the fragile nature of the des­ return the area to a more historically SHEEP SURVEY IN JOSHUA ert any major disturbance to the flora characteristic form by using fire and or soil could take a hundred years or plantings to improve its appearance. more to return to its natural state. So, as you drive through the Monu­ TREE NATIONAL MONUMENT With a little help from Monument per­ ment today, or walk around the Oasis, Alice Turner sonnel that time span may be short­ take a few pictures of the revegeta­ Resources Management Ranger ened considerably. tion. Then, come back in a few years Fortunate is the visitor that sees period of three days. Should a few of the plants die, they and see how successful the project the magnificent Desert bighorn The first survey area was the are still doing a necessary job. They has been. sheep. It is hard to convince many Stubbe Springs unit. It lies along the people that these creatures even ex­ Little San Bernardino Mountains ist, much less in large numbers. The near the Monument's western boun­ MOHAVE YUCCA rugged terrain of the Monument and dary. The survey was restricted to the far reaching back country is a fav­ the primary ridges and canyons along orite playground of this elusive ani­ the south facing slopes. Easterly, the mal but it also limits sightings by the area includes Inspiration Peak. casual visitor. Many of us who have During the morning of August 29th lived in the desert for years can claim the crew counted 5 rams, 8 ewes, 1 to have seen only one or two on rare yearling and 4 lambs. occasions. On the 30th of August, a second The division of Natural Resources crew flew Quail Mountain and Queen here at Joshua Tree National Monu­ Mountain areas. On Quail Mountain, 4 ment is given the responsibility for rams, and 7 ewes were spotted. Addi­ monitoring the sheep herd. How tionally, 16 deer were counted. Queen many are there? Are they healthy? Mountain and the adjacent Wonder­ These are the questions we must an­ land of Rocks produced 2 rams, 2 swer. ewes, 2 yearlings and one lamb. "But," you may ask, "How do you The final area surveyed was the count sheep in an area of 560,000 Coxcomb Mountain range at the far acres and as rugged as any around?" east end of the Monument. During the "Well," I answer in a less than serious four hour flight only three large rams mood? "You count their legs and di­ were seen, bringing the three day sur­ vide by four." But seriously folks... vey total to 39 sheep. One way of monitoring the sheep is These data, when compared to past to send a person into a known water­ census results indicate a stable popu­ ing hole or guzzler (manmade), have lation for the Monument overall. Esti­ him sit in a blind for several hours and mates of total population size are count the sheep that come in to water. based on the assumption that heli­ The problem here is that only one copter surveys find approximately 40 watering hole will have been checked percent of sheep in any area. We were and half a day, minimum, is gone. unable to survey the Eagle Mountains Since there are six to eight known in the southwest corner of the Monu­ watering holes not to mention all the ment. If we add in the 1986 count of 36 ephemeral potholes that fill with sheep for the Eagles, this places the water after rain, you can begin to see Monument's heard size at close to 200 the problem. animals. Additionally, sex ratios and The most effective method of age class distributions indicate a "counting sheep" is from a helicopter. healthy population. A Jet Ranger helicopter with pilot, The imposing Desert bighorn sheep navigator and two observers can, in are out there. Hopefully, as you enjoy about four hours, fly 500 foot contours our unique desert landscape you may around several mountains that are catch a glimpse of one. If you do, we known sheep habitat. The noise of the would appreciate having you fill out chopper will get the sheep moving an observation card or at least notify and they are easily seen as they run a ranger. It will help us in the Re­ up the mountainside. This method sources Management Division to keep was put to use this August over a track of these beautiful animals. The flowers appear in March and April.