Death Valley Natural History Association January 2024 E-Newsletter
Death Valley NP Updates
Public Input Sought for Water and Wastewater System Upgrades
The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public feedback on a project to upgrade the water and wastewater systems at Furnace Creek and Cow Creek in Death Valley National Park. Funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, this project addresses the aging systems that have required frequent repairs due to their location in a harsh environment. The improvements aim to provide more reliable services, enhance visitor and employee experiences, and ensure continuous water supply with new redundancy features. Additionally, these upgrades will reduce environmental risks by minimizing sewage spills and water loss from leaks.
An Environmental Assessment (EA) has been prepared to evaluate the project’s potential impacts on various environmental and cultural resources. Comments will be accepted until February 22, 2024. DVNHA fully supports this project, and we would like to see it completed as soon as possible. Read the full press release here.
Reckless Off-Roading in Death Valley National Park Sparks Environmental and Legal Consequences
Death Valley National Park has recently confronted a series of illegal off-roading incidents, highlighting the park’s ongoing efforts to protect its delicate natural landscape. These incidents, apart from causing environmental harm, have also led to legal issues for the drivers involved. In a significant event on December 22, two individuals in a rented Porsche SUV ventured off the established road near Badwater Basin, only to find themselves stuck in mud 200 yards away. Their situation worsened when a pickup truck, called in for help, also got trapped in the mud. These occurrences not only damage the park’s environment but also bring into focus the importance of following park rules and regulations. Read the full press release here.
Coyote Struck by Car and Killed
In an incident on Christmas Day, a coyote was fatally struck by a car in Death Valley National Park. The coyote, known to have been seeking food from motorists along Badwater Road near Golden Canyon for several months, met its untimely demise despite efforts to deter it from the area. This event highlights the ongoing issue of wildlife interaction with visitors. Feeding wildlife within Death Valley National Park is illegal, primarily due to the long-term dangers it poses to the animals. Wild animals that receive food from humans often develop behaviors that put them at risk, such as approaching roads when they see cars. They learn to associate vehicles with food, a behavior that unfortunately increases their chances of being hit by vehicles.
This tragic incident serves as a critical reminder of the consequences of feeding wildlife. It not only violates park regulations but can also lead to dangerous situations for the animals themselves. Park officials continue to urge visitors to respect wildlife by not feeding them and to observe them from a safe distance, preserving the natural balance of the park’s ecosystem. Read the press release here.
65-Hour Power Outage in Death Valley NP
Over Christmas weekend, Death Valley National Park was hit by an unexpected 65-hour power outage, which ended on December 26. This incident, falling during one of the busiest times of the year, significantly affected both the park’s visitors and its 450 residents. Unable to pump from wells or power treatment plants, the NPS swiftly arranged for water to be transported to vital areas such as Stovepipe Wells Resort, ensuring essential fire suppression systems remained operational. Additionally, electric vehicle drivers found themselves in a bind, with several needing assistance after draining their batteries. Gas pumps at Stovepipe Wells Resort were inoperable without power, and even The Oasis at Death Valley ran out of fuel due to high demand. Accommodation and dining services in the park were similarly disrupted. Hotel guests faced nights without electricity and heat, while dining options were drastically limited. The absence of cell service added to the challenges, cutting off communication for residents and visitors during the holiday season. Read the full press release here.
Additional Areas of Death Valley NP Now Open
Death Valley National Park has made considerable progress in recovering from the devastating flash floods caused by the remnants of Hurricane Hilary in August. One of the most notable developments is the reopening of Beatty Cutoff Road and Mesquite Spring Campground, which occurred on January 12. This reopening marks a significant step in the park’s return to normalcy. Additionally, as of December 23, the park reopened 95 miles of flood-damaged roads, which include critical access routes to various park attractions. Read the full press releases here.
View All NPS Road Updates and Alerts
Ash Meadows NWR Updates
Junior Refuge Ranger Day 2024
Junior Refuge Ranger Day is the perfect opportunity to learn about environmental stewardship and the importance of protecting natural ecosystems! This exciting day is packed with interactive, educational, and fun-filled activities designed to inspire the next generation of wildlife protectors and nature lovers.
When? Saturday February 10, 2024, 10 am-1pm.
Where? Ash Meadows Visitor Center, 8757 E Spring Meadows Rd, Amargosa Valley, NV 89020.
DVNHA
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This delightful collection features intricately designed mini building block models of the charismatic Roadrunner, the majestic Bighorn Sheep, the vibrant Collared Lizard, and the intriguing Scorpion. Each model offers a unique, hands-on experience that brings the essence of the desert right to your fingertips. Perfect for collectors, nature lovers, and creative minds, these building block animals are a fun and educational way to explore the beauty of desert life.
Death Valley Natural History Association | dvnha.org
Education ● Preservation ●
Mission
Preserving and interpreting the natural and cultural resources of the Death Valley region in cooperation with our government partners:
Death Valley National Park and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
