The saying when I was growing up was “April showers bring May flowers”.  However, this spring has been more like “Late February showers bring March flowers”.

Here in Ridgecrest and the larger Mojave we were fortunate enough to receive a few days of light and steady rain at the end of February.  To everyone’s surprise and delight, it was enough to give us a showing of spring flowers!  Though still in drought it seems the timing of rain can make a difference.

Though I am not collecting seeds for the SOS  program, it has been a real treat to hike around  and enjoy al the blooming flowers.  Especially after last years dry and brown spring.  This is a welcomed change!

Indigo.  

Blooming Desert Peach

Along with the flowers the spring has brought many wildlife sighting and even some grazing sheep sightings.

Sheep grazing, Spangler hills

Desert Tortoise

Beyond the flora and fauna sightings that I have enjoyed this Spring, my work has composed of helping teach and facilitate the Wilderness Explorer Jr. Ranger Program during SEEP (Sand Canyon Environmental Education Program), coordinating ATV training for the restoration crews, gathering field data for restoration crews next fall, experiencing writing DNA’s and EA’s, and training on the NEPA process.

Wilderness Explorer Jr. Ranger Program

Restoration work site

 Hope your spring has been just as exciting! Until next time, 

Catherine