BBOF proudly highlights events from veteran organizationswhose missions align with and support our own.
Team RWB: This is a very unique event, a full day of adventure, open to all veterans, active military and their supporters. This is an opportunity to visit YOUR Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, one of your public lands. And to entice you to venture far out into the desert, Team RWB will be serving up pancakes and sausages! You just have to get yourself there. And there is no cost for this event. Even the entry is free!
If you are not familiar with Ash Meadows, it is...
· the largest remaining oasis in the Mojave Desert.
· an internationally recognized wetland and designated Ramsar site.
· home to relict species of desert fish that have existed here since the Pleistocene.
· a place for the whole family to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Ash Meadows has . . .
· the highest concentration of endemic species in the United States.
· four endangered fish species and eight threatened or endangered plant species.
· diverse habitat including dune fields, alkali seeps, and groves of mesquite and ash trees.
· spring systems fed by fossil water that originated from the last ice age.
Ash Meadows offers . . .
· friendly staff and volunteers to answer questions.
· a state-of-the-art visitor center with interactive learning stations.
· three points of interests with wheelchair accessible boardwalks, restrooms, interpretive signs, views, and picnic areas.
· opportunities for education, photography, wildlife observation, and hunting.
The Plan:If you're leaving from the Las Vegas area, we suggest you leave at 0700. Just put "Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center" into your map program and it should take you right there. At the visitor center, you will be treated to some yummy pancakes, get to tour the exhibits, watch a short film, and take stroll on the boardwalk. From there, our guide will take us out to the Longstreet Cabin and Crystal Spring, pointing out the various natural wonders and historical significance of the area. And then the final stop will be at the Point of Rocks, where you will cross several natural streams, and view a beautiful blue spring with the endangered Aragosa Pupfish. After that, some of us might venture into the nearby town of Pahrump for lunch, but I suppose most will just go home.
Safety First:Most of where we will be walking and rolling is either paved or on wooden boardwalks. All areas are fully ADA accessible for those with various abilities. The weather at this time of year should be mild but check the forecast in the morning and dress accordingly. Hats, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Well behaved dogs are welcome (but are required to be leashed and cleaned up after). Children are welcome but must be kept on the path.
Our last pancake breakfast nature exploration was at the Desert National Wildlife Refuge back in November and we had a really great turnout. We are hoping this spring event is even better. We look forward to seeing you there.-Kevin
