Putting and Keeping Sheep on the Mountain Since 2002
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CA WSF Sponsors State Lands Wildlife Water System East Mojave “Aurora” 2024
The project had the participation of thirty individuals: mostly SCBS member/volunteers, some members of WSF and several crew members from CDFW.
This time we had the benefit of an excavator, which was provided by Chuck Thomas of Diversified Excavating at a greatly reduced rate. Chuck has an equal passion for this wildlife enhancement work, which was clearly demonstrated by his determination to get his rig to the work site, his meticulous focus on the project, and professional integrity.
While Chuck excavated the holes for the Raincatcher tanks, the crew diligently prepared the pad for the water collection mat. Once all the rocks were removed and the surface was raked fine, there was an all-hands-on-deck exercise to manipulate the heavy Hypalon rain mats. As it turned out, once the mats were unfurled, it was discovered that they were facing the wrong direction. Each mat weighs about 800 pounds! All the volunteers lined up along all four edges, and in one team effort the mats were rotated counter clockwise in one effective maneuver. “Piece of Cake”!
Then the entire team spread out over the landscape, harvesting sizable rocks and carrying them over to be placed upon the rain mat. Sounds rudimentary – but this proven method using native materials keeps those rain mats in place for decades in the harsh Mojave environment. Immediately following the completion of the rain collection mat, another crew of SCBS volunteers arrived at the scene with water totes.
Water was transported from sources at Newberry Springs and Ludlow by a determined water-haul team; by Sunday afternoon the two Raincatcher tanks were almost full. We left the area clean, raked out our tire tracks, and “Aurora” is ready for discovery by the Cady Bighorn. It’s just a matter of time that this dry side of the mountains can host the existing populations and expand their available habitat.
Aurora will be the first of many new water systems installed in the East Mojave, strategically placed and based upon scientific data.
Drinkers go where sheep live, seldom where you can bring supplies in by truck. The project included adding an additional water tank.
Sometimes natural water collection needs a little boost.
Sometimes natural water collection needs a little boost.
Volunteer Teams are Always Impressive. You Could Be On the Next Team!
Sometimes natural water collection needs a little boost.
The new tank addition integrated in with the drinker.
Happy customers make it all worth while.
Rocks Holding Down Collection Mats are a Proven Solution
Happy customers make it all worth while.
Happy customers make it all worth while.
Please mail donations to CAWSF, 1630 Williams Hwy #151, Grants Pass, OR. 97527.