Death Valley Natural History Association March E-Newsletter

The 2025 Dark Sky Festival at Death Valley NP was a great success, drawing nearly 7,000 visitors to experience one of the world’s most pristine night skies. The festival featured around 40 programs—from guided night hikes and astronomy talks to immersive activities and interactive exhibits—that showcased the wonders of the cosmos and the park’s commitment to preserving its dark skies. A highlight of the weekend was the Exploration Fair, which attracted around 3,500 visitors to hands-on exhibits focused on responsible stargazing and environmental care. Experts from NASA, Caltech, local astronomical societies, and more offered valuable insights that enriched the overall experience. Thank you to everyone who participated in recognizing the beauty of the night sky and contributed to its ongoing preservation and enjoyment.

Alerts and Conditions

Please be aware of several temporary closures within Death Valley NP due to ongoing maintenance and repairs. From late March into early April, specific roads and trails will be temporarily inaccessible to ensure visitor safety and infrastructure improvements. Visitors should plan accordingly and consider alternative routes or activities during this period. The park service thanks you for your patience as they enhance park facilities and roadways.

For the latest updates, visit the Death Valley National Park conditions webpage.

Current Closures

• Mud Canyon Road Closure: Mud Canyon Road will be closed for essential repairs until April 4, 2025. Access to Beatty, NV, and Daylight Pass Road will remain open via Beatty Cut-Off Road.
• Paved Roads Parkwide: Expect delays due to ongoing construction on paved roads through early April 2025. Traffic control measures will be in place, and visitors should allow extra travel time.

Ash Meadows NWR Updates

Don’t Ditch Your Fish!

Ash Meadows NWR shelters rare species, including the endemic Amargosa pupfish, that thrive in its pristine natural springs. Yet when pet fish are released into these habitats, they upset a delicately balanced ecosystem. Introduced species compete with native species for food, space, and breeding grounds, often triggering rapid population declines. Such actions are illegal and jeopardize conservation efforts. Learn more about the impact on these unique ecosystems and advice on properly caring for unwanted aquatic pets by reading the full article.

DVNHA Store

Looking for your favorite Death Valley NP or Ash Meadows NWR Merchandise? Look no further. DVNHA’s online store has everything from apparel to books, souvenirs, and more. Explore our online store to support your favorite national park and wildlife refuge.

Have fun shopping!

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Death Valley Natural History Association | dvnha.org

Education ● Preservation ● Partnership ● Accountability

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