Field Trips

• Barker Pass above Homewood (west shore Lake Tahoe, California), August 2. May include search for Tahoe yellowcress. Leaders Gary Monroe 775-359-4863 and Steve Caicco 775-861-6341.

July 2008:

• Summit Lake north of Donner summit (northern California), July 26. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald's at the southwest corner of North McCarran & Mae Anne in NW Reno. Pack a lunch and water. Trip involves a hike of approximately 3 miles. For those who plan to meet at Donner Summit, call leader Paul Mungan for meeting location (747-4567). To extend your weekend at Donner summit join Larry Taylor for Saturday night and Sunday. Bring sleeping bag. Bunk at Sierra Club's Clair Tappaan Lodge at Norden on old US 40. Dinner, breakfast, and U-build-it sack lunch included at $46 for SC members, $51 for non-members. Need more information? Call Larry Taylor at 775-883-6016.
• Antelope Valley (near Sierra Valley, northern California), July 12. Group 1 will meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald's at the Lemon Valley exit on highway 395 north of Reno. Group 2 will meet at 8:00 am at Country Cooking in Loyalton for coffee and/or breakfast. Country Cooking is on the east side of Highway 49, next to the new Sierra County Sheriffs office. The two groups will converge at Country Cooking at 9:00, and proceed from there. Travel will be on dirt roads, high clearance vehicles suggested, bring lunch and beverages, and sunscreen. Ride sharing will be available. For more info call John Dyer, 775-770-0035 (day) or 775-677-2714 (evenings), or Bill or Nancy Harnach at 916-994-3464.

June 2008:

• Lower Prey Meadows (Lake Tahoe east shore), June 14. Meet at 8:00 am for breakfast at Denny's in Carson City at the NE corner of Hot Springs Road and N. Carson St. From Reno take exit 43. Depart from Denny's at 9:00 am. Reno carpoolers meet at 7:15 am at the Pink Scolari's at 8165 S. Virginia St. if meeting for breakfast, otherwise meet at 8:15 am. Final rendezvous at 9:45 at gate to Skunk Harbor road on Highway 28, 1 mile N of Carson/Douglas County line. Bring lunch and water. Hike to meadow is approximately 1.5 miles (Julie Carville "Hike" #29). Leader Larry Taylor 775-883-6016.

May 2008:

•  Lower slopes of Peavine Mountain (Washoe Co.), May 17. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald's at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395 north of Reno. Leader Paul Mungan 747-4567.
• Silver Peak area (Esmeralda Co.), May 9-11+. Should be some of the best spring flowers in Nevada this year. Dry camping in the Silver Peak Range. Gas, groceries, RV parks, and motels available in Tonopah and Goldfield. To coordinate carpooling, be at May 1 NNPS meeting in Reno, or call trip leaders. First meeting place Friday May 9th: intersection of Nevada highways 264 and 773, north end of Fishlake Valley, no later than 1:00 pm. Fill gas in Hawthorne if coming from Reno area, Big Pine or Bishop if coming from Owens Valley, or Tonopah if coming from southeast. Camping Friday night Coyote Summit on road between Fishlake Valley and town of Silverpeak. Second meeting place Saturday May 10th: Coyote Summit no later than 10:00 am. Camping Saturday night Railroad Summit between Silverpeak and Lida. Third meeting place Sunday May 11th: Railroad Summit no later than 9:30 am. Stephen Ingram of CNPS will join the group to lead us to some rare species habitat. For those interested in joining later or staying longer, Jim Morefield will meet any malingerers at Railroad Summit Sunday night or Monday late-morning, and stay through the 13th or 14th. Leaders Gary Monroe (359-4863), Larry Taylor (883-6016), and Jim Morefield (782-4360).
• Pine Nut Range (Douglas Co.), May 3.
• CANCELED! Gold Butte (Clark Co.), May 2-4 (Friday-Sunday). Join field trip leader Devon Ekenstam (ekenstam [at] mvdsl [dot] com or 702-378-0624) for either day hikes or an overnight stay in the Whitney Pockets area of the Gold Butte area south of the City of Mesquite along the Gold Butte Backcountry Byway. For those who prefer facilities, the amenities of the City of Mesquite are not far away.

April 2008:

• Petersen Range (Washoe Co.), April 26. Meet at 8:00 am at the cul-de-sac north of highway 395 at the Red Rock exit. This is just south of the Shell Station. Leaders John Dyer 775-677-2714 and Bonnie Larsen 775-972-0583.
• Mormon Mountains (Clark Co., possibly the Hackberry Springs area), April 19. Meet field trip leader Devon Ekenstam (ekenstam [at] mvdsl [dot] com or 702-378-0624) at the Carp Elgin exit on Interstate 15 North of the Las Vegas Valley at 7:30 AM. Will botanize in sandy lowland areas up to middle elevations of the Mormon Mountains. Expect to see a wide variety of Mojave Desert flora, including Yucca, Agave and our native desert shrubs. We will stop for lunch at the Logandale Park for a picnic after the hike. Upper Las Vegas Wash area of North Las Vegas (Clark Co.), April 5. Another local group, the Protectors of Tule Springs (POTS), will be offering a hike to view Las Vegas Bearpoppy habitat. To join them, meet at 9:45AM at the Sun City Aliante Clubhouse parking lot (NE corner of Aliante Parkway and Elkhorn, north of the 215.) Contact Sue Wainscott (suewainscott [at] mac [dot] com) for more information.

March 2008:

• North Shore Road and Valley of Fire State Park area (Clark Co.), March 22nd (exact destination to be determined). Meet field trip leader Matt Hamilton (702-468-2251) at the USGS office in Henderson (directions below) at 7:00 AM to begin our excursion. The trip will consist of either several short hikes or an extended hike depending upon participant’s interest and available floral displays.

-

• Bristlecone Pines, White Mountains (Mono Co., CA), August 10-12 (Friday-Sunday). The Summer Sojourn by the Bristlecone CNPS Chapter (Bishop) will be held at the UC White Mountain Research Station, Crooked Creek Facility, on August 11 and 12 [Note: this is not the same as the trip scheduled by the NNPS on June 1-3]. Cost for the CNPS Summer Sojourn is $100 per person. Accommodations include either a dorm room (limited number) or a tent area. The station is at 10,000 feet, and will focus on alpine flora and habitat. The Saturday night speaker will be Dr. Connie Millar of the USFS Pacific Southwest Research station, a paleoecologist, speaking about historic climate change on the structure, composition, and function of high-elevation and tree-line populations in the Sierra Nevada and the western Great Basin. More information can be obtained from Cheryl Chipman at 760-872-7636, or at gocc [at] cebridge [dot] net, or at http://www.wmrs.edu. Registration is limited due to the size of the research station. Registration deadline is July 28, but don't wait, the trip may be full by then. If you plan to attend, prepare for the effects of high elevation. NNPS coordinator John Dyer (775-677-2714).

July 2007:

• Lamoille Canyon, Ruby Mountains (Elko Co.), July 27-29 (Friday-Sunday). We have reserved spaces 10 and 11 (each with 40' long parking space & tent pads) in Thomas Canyon Campground (the only public camp in Lamoille Canyon - about a mile past the Lions Club camp). These spaces are in Loop B, the first road to the right after leaving the main road. Altitude at the camp is 7600 feet. Leaders Gary Monroe (775-359-4863) and Larry Taylor (775-883-6016).
• Pole Creek (near Squaw Valley, Placer Co., CA), July 14th. Meet at McDonalds in the shopping mall at the corner of North McCarran & Mae Anne in NW Reno at 8 am. Pack a lunch and water. Trip involves a hike of approximately 3 miles. We should be back in Reno before 5 pm. Questions, contact leaders Paul Mungan (775-747-4567).

June 2007:

• Monitor Pass (Alpine Co., CA), June 30th. Meet at 7:30 am at the Pink Scolari's market at Southwest Pavilion at 8165 S. Virginia Street, Reno. Second meeting place will be at Denny's in Carson City at the NE corner of Carson Street (US 395 business) and Hot Springs Road. Departure from Denny's will be 8:15 am. Third meeting place will be at 9:30 at Monitor Junction at highways 395 and 89. If coming from Carson Valley call leader Larry Taylor (775-883-6016).
• Smith Valley (Lyon Co.), June 16th. Meet at 7:30 am at the Pink Scolari's market at Southwest Pavilion at 8165 S. Virginia Street, Reno. Second meeting place will be at Denny's in Carson City at the NE corner of Carson Street (US 395 business) and Hot Springs Road. Departure from Denny's will be 8:15 am. Third meeting place will be 9:15 am at Holbrook Junction at highways 395 and 208. If coming from Carson Valley call leader Larry Taylor (775-883-6016).
• Westgard Pass, White Mountains (Inyo Co., CA), June 1-3 (Friday-Sunday). We have reserved Ferguson Campground in the Cedar Flat area on highway 168 east of Big Pine. This is a dry camp. Leader John Reid (714-457-3149).

May 2007:

• Loyalton (Sierra Co., CA), May 19th. First meeting place is the McDonalds parking lot at the Lemmon Valley exit on Highway 395 north of Reno. Departure at 8 am. Second meeting place is at 9 am at the turnoff on the east side of Highway 49 to the Sierra County landfill/transfer station about 1 mile north of Loyalton. We will park there and consolidate passengers to reduce vehicle numbers. General directions from Reno: Drive north on Highway 395, take Highway 70 west at Hallelujah Junction, proceed through Chilcoot, then turn south on Highway 49 at Vinton. Proceed south on Highway 49 to landfill/transfer station exit. If you pass the Mormon Church or Smithneck Road on the east side of Highway 49 or come to Loyalton, you went too far - turn around and go back north on Highway 49. Leaders John Dyer (775-770-0035) and Bill and Nancy Harnach (530-994-3464).
•  Eagle/Dayton Valleys & Eldorado Canyon (Carson City and Lyon Co.), May 5th. Meet at 8 am for breakfast at Denny's in Carson City at the NE corner of Carson Street (US 395 business) and Hot Springs Road. From Reno take the first Carson City off ramp (exit 43). Reno meeting place will be the Pink Scolari's market at Southwest Pavillion at 8165 S. Virginia Street. Departure from Reno will be at 7:20 am for those who want breakfast at Denny's (Gary Monroe leader 775-359-4863) or depart at 8:20 am for the field trip (Oyvind Frock leader 775-826-8779). Departure from Denny's will be 9 am. Hiking will be moderate but may require some shallow wading. Leaders Larry Taylor (775-883-6016) and Paul Mungan (775-747-4567).

April 2007:

•  Hungry Valley (Washoe Co.), April 21st. Meet at 8:30 am at the Starbucks parking lot at the corner of Pyramid Way and McCarran Blvd. in Sparks. The exact trip destination is flexible. Flower evidence will determine location in the Hungry Valley area. Be prepared to walk up some inclined slopes. Leaders Paul Mungan (775-747-4567) and Connie Douglas (775-425-1305). Call Connie to arrange a second meeting place in Spanish Springs.
• Summerlin Earth Day (Clark Co.), April 21st. Come visit (or help with!) our Earth Day booth at Summerlin Centre Community Park, 1800 South Town Center Drive (between Sahara and Charleston), Las Vegas. The event will feature live musical entertainment, interactive displays, children’s environmental art, and learning activities, food, and exhibits. Upper Las Vegas Wash (Clark Co.), April 16th (Monday!). Also hosted by the "Friends" of the Upper Las Vegas Wash group, this is a repeat of last Fall's trip where 3 different fossil and plant sites were visited. Sign up with Sue Wainscott (702)-455-3859 or eriogonum [at] earthlink [dot] net by March 9th.
• Upper Las Vegas Wash (Clark Co.), April 14th. Hosted by the "Friends" of the Upper Las Vegas Wash group, a BLM representative will lead us into the trenches of the "Big Dig," where they will be looking at numerous fossil beds. This area is also home to Las Vegas bear poppies and Las Vegas buckwheat. Sign up with Sue Wainscott (702)-455-3859 or eriogonum [at] earthlink [dot] net by March 9th.

• Frazier Falls for fall colors (Plumas Co., CA), October 7th. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place at 9:00 at the park and ride at the intersection of Highways 70 and 89 at Blairsden, near Graeagle, CA. Leaders: John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Fred Peterson (775) 747-2364.

September 2006

• Fall colors and seeds, September 23rd. For details, call leaders: John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and John Reid (530) 546-4127 (M-Th) or (760) 932-9861 (F-Su).

August 2006

• Grover Falls or Burnside Lake (Alpine Co., CA), August 19th. Meet at 8:00 am at the pink Scolari’s at 8165 S. Virginia St. Second meeting place at 8:45 near the southeast corner of Albertson’s North Carson Store. When you come into Carson City do not get on the new freeway. Albertson’s is west of highway 395 just past Glen Eagles Restaurant. Third meeting place at 9:30 at the Dairy Queen on the northwest corner of the junction of highways 395 and 88 at the north end of Minden. Leaders: Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 and John Reid (530) 546-4127 (M-Th) and (760) 932-9861 (F-Su). [A welcome dip in Grover Hot Springs ($5.00) is an option after the field trip].
•  New Mount Rose Trail (Washoe Co.), August 1st (Tuesday!). Meet at 8:00 am at the pink Scolari’s at 8165 S. Virginia St. Leader: Jerry Tiehm (775) 329-1645.

July 2006

• North Loop Trail, Mt. Charleston Wilderness (Clark Co.), July 22nd. While everyone is sizzling down in the Valley, you can join Trip Leaders Trent Draper and Gary Reese to botanize at higher elevations. The North Loop Trail starts around 8500 ft, just off the Deer Creek Highway and near Hilltop campground, we will hike close to 10,000 feet. Altitude sickness is always a possibility. We will hike 2-3 miles from the trailhead into the Mt. Charleston Wilderness to where the trail levels off into a nice Pinus longaeva (bristlecone pine) grove. We will talk about plant communities along the way and potentially see many species of concern such as Arenaria kingii ssp. rosea, Castilleja martinii var. clokeyi, Draba jaegeri, Ericameria compacta, Lesquerella hitchcockii, Pedicularis semibarbata var. charlestonensis, Penstemon leiophyllus var. keckii, Penstemon thompsoniae ssp. jaegeri, and Salvia dorrii var. clokeyi. We will also be watching for other species of concern that may occur in the area such as Townsendia jonesii var. tumulosa, Viola charlestonensis, Sphaeromeria compacta, and Phacelia hastata var. charlestonensis as well as many montane plant species. Nice views of the Spring Mountains and on a clear day, Fortification Hill at Lake Mead National Recreation Area can be seen. Bring sturdy shoes, water, lunch, and sunscreen. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact DeVon Ekenstam at (702) 378-0624.
• Gold Lake/Graeagle area (Plumas Co., CA), July 22nd. Paleofossils with Anna Thompson, botany instructor at Feather River College in Quincy. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place at 9:00 at the park and ride at the intersection of Highways 70 and 89 at Blairsden, near Graeagle, CA. Leader: John Dyer (775) 677-2714(h) or (775) 770-0035(c).
• Frazier Falls, July 8th (Plumas Co., CA). Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place at 9:00 am at the park and ride at the intersection of Highways 70 and 89 at Blairsden. Leaders Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464 and Fred Peterson 747-2364.
• Lincoln County, Nevada, July 1st. Details about this field trip are forthcoming. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact

June 2006

• Peavine Mountain high elevations (Washoe Co.), June 17th. Meet at 8:00 am at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Participants should be prepared for all weather conditions because we have encountered snow in previous years. Be sure to bring a hat and sun screen. Also, wear good walking shoes for negotiating rough ground. Leaders Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 and Bonnie Larsen (775) 972-0583.
• Zion National Park (Washington Co., UT), June 9-10 (Friday-Saturday). Come join our overnight trip to venture into beautiful southwestern Utah. More details will follow regarding botanizing, camping availability and the potluck on Friday night. We will meet Friday evening at City Park in Virgin. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact DeVon Ekenstam at (702) 378-0624.
• Carson City area, June 4th (Sunday!). Explore hills and canyons of the Carson area. In Reno, meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari’s, 8165 South Virginia Street to carpool. In Carson City meet at 8:45 near the southeast corner of Albertson’s North Carson Store. From Reno, access via gas station entrance on west side of Highway 395 just past Glen Eagles Restaurant. From Carson, going north on Highway 395, go west (left) on College Parkway (intersection with traffic lights). Leader Larry Taylor (775) 883-6016.

May 2006

• Long Valley east of Hallelujah Junction (Lassen Co., CA), May 27th. First meeting place, 8:00 am, at the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on highway 395, north of Reno. Second meeting place will be at the corral at the end of the pavement on Scott Road. Scott Road is 2.2 miles west of Hallelujah Junction on Hwy. 70 and to the north. From the corral we will go another 5 miles N on Scott Road on dirt. The time will be about 8:45. We can leave cars at the corral. People should bring lunch, water, rain gear, insect repellant. Leaders Chris Battis and Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863.
• Lee Canyon (Clark Co.), May 20th. Only a quick 40 minute drive from Las Vegas, here's your opportunity to beat the heat while botanizing at the same time! Meet at 8:00 am at the turn-off to Lee Canyon on US Highway 95. Trip leader DeVon Ekenstam will meet everyone, and the group will drive west on State Route 156 (Lee Canyon Rd.) up the canyon making frequent stops to botanize. Please bring lunch, water, a hat and field walking shoes - terrain is easy to moderate. For any questions regarding the field trip, please contact DeVon Ekenstam at (702) 378-0624.
• White River Valley (White Pine Co.), May 12th-14th (Friday-Sunday). Meet at Lane's Truck Stop in Preston (White Pine County, Nevada) at 5:00 pm on Friday, May 12th. Lane's is located on Hwy. 318, 7 miles south of the junction of 318 and Hwy. 6. We will plan to eat dinner at the coffee shop and stay either at Lane's Motel (be sure to make reservations in advance (775) 238-5269) or at the Dave Deacon campground at Wayne E. Kirch Wildlife Management Area, approximately 40 miles south of Preston. This is a bare bones campground, although it does have picnic tables, primitive restrooms, and a nearby warm springs for bathing. On Saturday, we will botanize around the Sunnyside area. Please bring items to share for dinner on Saturday night if you are camping. On Sunday morning, we will visit sites in northern White River Valley. Call Tara Forbis (775) 289-7974, Janet Bair (775) 322-4990, ex. 28, or Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863 for details and to reserve a space on this trip.

April 2006

• North Valleys/Red Rock area (Washoe Co.), April 29th. High clearance probably desirable. Car pooling desirable. Bring lunch, water, hat. Wear sturdy shoes for walking off trails. Meet 8:30 am in the cul de sac between the Shell Station and Highway 395 on Red Rock Road. Take Highway 395 north from Reno, exit Red Rock Road, and turn right. You will see the station and meeting place west of the road. Leaders John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
• Muddy River Headwaters (Clark Co.), April 29th. Meet at Glendale Restaurant at 8:00 am . The drive takes about 1 hour from Las Vegas: From Las Vegas, take I-15 north to Exit 90 (Glendale-Moapa exit); at the STOP sign at bottom of Exit ramp, turn right and drive approximately 0.2 mile to restaurant. Trip leader, Bruce Lund, will meet everyone, and the group will drive to the field trip site from there. Please bring lunch, water, a hat and field walking shoes - terrain is easy walking on level ground. Muddy River headwaters offers a great birding area, too, so bring binoculars if you like to watch birds! For any questions concerning the field trip, please contact Bruce Lund, (702) 865-2808. February 2006: Mojave Preserve near Cima Road (Clark Co.), February 25th. Leader Devon Ekenstam (702) 378-0624.

•  Adopt-a-Wash Weeding Event (Clark Co.), October 8th. Join volunteers on the north bank of the Las Vegas Wash for the "Adopt-a-Wash" weed pull event. We will be working to improve a site intended to be a small, beautiful emergent/riparian zone. The event will last from 9-11 am. All tools will be provided, and there will be a light breakfast snack to give us all a little weed-pulling energy. The site is immediately adjacent to the water. There are a few narrow channels that have cut through it, making careful footing necessary. However, the site itself is not wet, and we will steer clear of the water. If you are interested and would like to join volunteers, please contact Beth Hewitt at (702) 321-5008 or Sonja Kokos at (702) 326-5564.

 August 2005

• Pacific Crest Trail, Donner Pass - Castle Peak area (northeastern California). Meet at 8:00 am in the McDonald's parking lot at the corner of West McCarran and Mae Ann (Safeway shopping center). This will be an all day hiking trip. We plan on returning to Reno no later than 5:00 pm. Wear sturdy hiking boots and sun-protective clothing; bring lunch, plenty of water, and sunscreen. Leaders Janet Bair (775) 329-9771 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
• Ball Canyon (Washoe Co.), August 13th. A midsummer visit to this area, usually visited earlier by NNPS members should lead to new discoveries. Outing will be on private property. Must enter and leave with group through gates which are kept locked. Wear hat! Meet at Bordertown in the northwest part of the parking lot behind the casino at 9:00 am. To reach Bordertown (this is not Boomtown) take Highway 395 north from Reno to the Bordertown exit. Leader Chris Ross (775) 742-0518, or contact Bonnie Larsen (775) 972-0583.
• New Mt. Rose Trail (Washoe Co.), August 6th. Meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari’s parking lot in Southwest Pavilion at 8165 South Virginia St. We will drive to the new trail head at the Mt. Rose highway summit and hike as far as we can along the trail until snow or time prevents us from continuing further. Bring a lunch and plenty of drinking water. We should be back in Reno by 5 pm. Leaders Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 and Melanie Scott (775) 746-1667.

July 2005

• Lakes Basin (Plumas and Sierra cos., CA), July 30th. Plan on a flower-filled day in this beautiful area. Meet at 8:00am the McDonald’s on Lemmon Valley Drive. Taking Highway 395 north from Reno, exit Lemmon Valley. Turn right and make another right into the shopping center. Second meeting place at the park-and-ride on the north side of Highway 70 at the Highway 89 junction at Blairsden, CA. Arrive by 9:00 am. Leaders: John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
• Carson City area (northern Nevada), July 16th. Explore hills and canyons of the Carson area. In Reno, meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari’s, 8165 South Virginia Street to carpool. In Carson City meet at 8:45 near the southeast corner of Albertson’s North Carson Store. From Reno, access via gas station entrance on West side of Highway 395 just past Glen Eagles Restaurant. From Carson, going north on Highway 395, go west (left) on College Parkway (intersection with traffic lights). Leader Larry Taylor (775) 883-6016.
• Plumas-Eureka State Park, Jamison Mine to Grass Lake (Plumas Co., CA), July 9th. Group will decide whether to hike to a small lake or explore flatter areas. Wear sturdy shoes. Meet in the cul-de-sac between the Shell Station and the freeway off Red Rock Road for an 8:15 am departure. Traveling north on Highway 395 from Reno, exit Red Rock Road and turn right. You will see the Shell station across the road. Second meeting place at the park-and-ride on the north side of Highway 70 at the Highway 89 junction at Blairsden, CA. Depart the park-and-ride 9:15 am. Leaders Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464, Reno contact: John Dyer (775) 677-2714.

June 2005

• Sweetwater Mountains/Lobdell Lake (Mono Co., CA), June 25th. Meet at 8:00 am at the Pink Scolari's at 8165 S. Virginia St., second meeting place, at 8:45 am, at J.C. Penney's parking lot in Carson City. The walks should be short, easy, and non-strenuous (no more than 1/4 mile each). Bring lunch, plenty of fluids, sun screen, and shoes that can withstand walking in wet, somewhat muddy meadows. 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles are preferable, but not required. We will have copies of a Sweetwater Mountains plant checklist. Leaders John Reid (760) 932-9861(h) or (530) 581-6247(w) and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
• Big Den (Desatoya Mountains, Churchill Co.), June 10th-12th (Friday-Sunday). Vigorous hike Sat. morning up Big Den's striking, deep rock-gorge; stony trail, several stream crossings, wear long pants (some nettles). Strong hike up Willow Creek Sun. morning. Primitive camping, bring shovel, stove, table(?), water or microfilter; each person arranges own food. Check details with leaders Oyvind Frock (775) 826-8779 or Fred Peterson (775) 747-2364. High-clearance vehicle best, no camp trailers or motor homes. Meet at site Friday afternoon/evening. Travel directions from center of Fallon, NV, starting at stoplight on US Hwy 50 where US Hwy 95 turns south: 0.0 mi stoplight, go east on Hwy 50 from where Hwy 95 turns south; 47.1 Middlegate, junction with NV Hwy 361 to S, continue E on Hwy 50; 50.3 Junction, turn onto NV Hwy 722 to E toward Eastgate/Ione; 55.3 bridge at Eastgate (abandoned Hwy Maintenance Sta. & store, ranch house), continue E; 56.6 turn left on dirt road at "Wildlife Viewing" sign. 57.3 stay to left on dirt road; 59.7 "Big Den's Creek" sign and cattle guard, stay ahead; 60.2 stay right (ahead) on dirt road; 61.3 pass "Wilderness Study Area" sign and cattle guard; 61.5 Big Den "Campground"! Grab a spot. Note trailhead sign and visitors' book.

May 2005

• Sierra Valley area (Plumas/Sierra Co., CA), May 30th (Monday). Not an "official" NNPS walk. Bill and Nancy Harnach invite you to go along with friends and neighbors on an outing they’ve been leading for the last several years. Meet under the bridge on A-23, left side, as you come off of Highway 70 at the Calpine turnoff. This is approximately 1 mile west of Beckwourth, CA. Meet there at 10:30 a.m. or meet Gary Monroe at the Lemmon Drive McDonald’s (see May 21) at 9:30 a.m. to arrange carpooling. Leaders: Gary Monroe: (775) 359-4863 and Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464
• Unionville - Star City Mining District (Humboldt Range, Pershing Co.), May 28th-30th (Saturday-Monday). This is a camping trip. Will hike 1-2 miles each day identifying plants. Because of limited camping area, please call leaders Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567 or John Dyer (775) 677-2714 if you plan on going.
•  Sierra Valley (Marble Hot Springs Road, Plumas/Sierra Co., CA), May 21st. Meet at 8:00 am. at the McDonald’s on Lemmon Drive, reached by going north from Reno on Highway 395, or meet at 8:45 at the rest stop west of Beckwourth, California on Highway 70. We will also visit lands recently purchased by the Feather River Land Conservancy and botanize the fringes of the marshlands that run through the valley. No restrictions on cars and only about 3 miles of maintained dirt road. All walking on level ground. Leaders: Bill and Nancy Harnach, (530) 994-3464, Reno contact: Gary Monroe, (775) 359-4863.
• Moapa (Clark Co.), May 21st. Botanizing in the Muddy River Headwaters. We'll explore a diversity of very un-desert habitats including marshes, flooded pastures, mesquite bogs, cottonwood groves, and riparian shrub lands in one of southern Nevada's unique flood plains. Wear shoes you wouldn't mind getting muddy or wet. Bring snacks, liquid, and a lunch. Presses are welcome. Meet at 7:00 am in Moapa at Calamity's Restaurant which takes about one hour to get to from Las Vegas. Take I-15 north to Exit 90 (Glendale/Moapa). Go straight at the stop sign at the bottom of the off ramp and Calamity's is ahead on the left. Contact Sonja Kokos for info. Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge (Nye Co.), May 14th. Ash Meadows is home to more than 24 endemic plant and animal species. The first part of the trip will focus on the endemics. Expect to spend approximately an hour or so exploring the refuge looking for rare plant species. The second part of the trip will focus on restoration efforts on the refuge, specifically the Longstreet Fire Site. Anna Schrenk will join us and bring us up to speed on current restoration activities. In addition to checking on the recovery of the burn site we will be collecting plant material for future restoration needs. Tools will be supplied for those interested in helping collect plant material. Meet at refuge headquarters at 10:00 a.m. (earlier if you would like to get some birding in prior to the field trip). Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, plenty of water and a snack. If you have any questions or plan on attending, contact Beth T. Hewitt by Friday May 13th (702) 321-5008 or Elizabeth_Hewitt [at] ccsn [dot] nevada [dot] edu).
• Bass Flat area south of Fallon (Churchill Co.), May 7th. Easy walking. Bring mosquito repellent, hat, and rain gear as needed. Meet at the southwest side of the Quality Inn on Nugget Avenue for an 8:00 a.m. departure. Second meeting place at McDonald’s on Highway 50 in Fallon, for a 9:30 departure. Leaders Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863 and Melanie Scott (775) 746-1667.
• Lower Las Vegas Wash (above Lake Las Vegas, Clark Co.), May 7th. Historically, the Las Vegas Wash was an ephemeral desert channel but since the 1950s has been transformed into a perennial riparian landscape. Because a significant riparian seed source was not available as the Las Vegas Wash transformed into a "river," much of the area is "behind the curve." In an attempt to re-create native riparian conditions found along other southwestern drainage's along the Las Vegas Wash, an intensive revegetation program is currently underway. Several sites along the Las Vegas Wash and a review of the evolution of the system will be provided. Leader Seth Shanahan. Contact Sonja Kokos (702) 326-5564 for info.

April 2005

•  North Valleys/Red Rock area (Washoe Co.), April 30th. High clearance vehicles probably desirable. Carpooling desirable. Wear sturdy shoes for walking off trails. Meet 8:30 a.m. in the cul-de-sac between the Shell Station and Highway 395 on Red Rock Road. Take highway 395 north from Reno, exit Red Rock Road and turn right. You will see the station and meeting place across the road. Leaders John Dyer (775) 677-2714 and Bonnie Larsen (775) 972-0583.
• Ball Canyon (Washoe Co.), April 23rd. Bad weather back-up date May 14. Entry is through gates that must be locked behind us. Must go in and out with group. Carpooling required. Dirt roads. Traveling north of Reno on Highway 395, take the Bordertown exit (almost at the California border). Turn left and cross over the freeway. Turn right to Bordertown. Meet in the northwest part of the parking lot behind Bordertown casino at 9:00 a.m. Leaders Fred Peterson (775) 747-2364 and Chris Ross (775) 861-6571 (w), (775) 742-0518.
• Sloan Canyon (Clark Co.), April 23rd. This is a beautiful opportunity to see our newest Conservation Area with an expert leader. Meet at 9:00 am at the Arco station on Las Vegas Blvd. at St. Rose Parkway (there's a Jack-in- the-Box attached to that gas station). From there we will carpool to the Sloan Canyon Petroglyph site. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, more for the rutted dirt roads then anything. It will take approximately 20 minutes from the Arco station to the parking area for the Petroglyph Canyon trail. The total hike up and back should be approximately 2.5 miles. Participants will need to be able to scramble up a 10 foot pour-off and depending on folks abilities the way back may be through the desert over a fairly rough trail. We'll see some interesting geology and flowering plants, as well as the cultural sites. This should take until about noon. Depending on the group's interest and ambitions we can head to either Hidden Valley on the west side of the Conservation Area or the northeast area along the power line road. The flowers were nice a couple of weeks ago in the northeast area. Both of these areas will require 4x4 high ground clearance vehicles. A "quick trip" to these areas should take 2-3 hours minimum Bring plenty of water, food (lunch), sunblock, and a hat. Leader Kathy August (BLM), RSVP and information Sonja Kokos (702) 326-5564, sonjakokos [at] yahoo [dot] com.
• Hot Springs Mountains vicinity (Churchill Co.), April 16th. Will hike an easy mile or less. Bring mosquito repellent, and rain gear and warm clothes as needed. Meet at the southwest side of the Quality Inn on Nugget Avenue (formerly McCarran House) for an 8:00 a.m. departure. Second meeting place at the Nightingale Exit on I-80 East for a 9:00 a.m. departure. Leaders Gary Monroe (775) 359-4863 and Paul Mungan (775) 747-4567.
• Death Valley National Park (Inyo Co., CA), April 9th. Death Valley wildflower displays are reputed to be the best in 50 years! The field trip will begin at 9:00 am at Hell's Gate (2-2.5 hours from Las Vegas area: take US 95 North to Beatty, NV, turn left (west) onto Hwy 374, proceed west to Hell's Gate kiosk parking area on left side of the road). The wildflowers should be quite showy in this area then and will provide for an excellent meeting area. If things are a bit past flower here we can always head higher in elevation towards Daylight Pass (4316 ft). From here we will head to Titus Canyon. The road through Titus Canyon is closed but the western access to the mouth of the canyon is still open. (For latecomers needing to meet at Titus Canyon: follow Hwy 374 west to Hwy 190, turn right (north) on 190, turn right (north) on Scotty's Castle Rd., proceed ~15 miles to Titus Canyon Rd. [on right]).We will spend the majority of the day hiking up the canyon and looking at the wildflowers along the way. The hike up the canyon is only a slight incline and we will probably hike 3-4 miles total. In Titus Canyon there are usually a wide variety of plant species to enjoy along the way in addition to narrow slot canyons, unique geologic mosaic formations and potentially Bighorn Sheep sightings. We will stop for lunch along the way and head back to the cars by sundown. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, a lunch and sunscreen. The temperature will most likely be in the 80's but easily could be anywhere from 40-90°, so bring appropriate clothing for both extremes. For those of that are interested in staying over on Saturday night, most campgrounds fill up by mid day, however there is usually plenty of tent or RV (without hookup) sites at Stovepipe Wells (closest to Titus Canyon) and Sunset (Furnace Creek area). You can get more information on campgrounds daily at http://www.nps.gov/deva/Morning.pdf. Leader Jeff Kane, USGS, contact for more information Sonja Kokos 702-326-5564 or via email.

March 2005

• Gold Butte (Clark Co.), March 5th. The Field Trip will convene at the Junction of the Virgin River and the Riverside Road (170), and the New Gold Butte Road (which is a Backcountry Byway), at 9:00am. Take Highway I-15 north from Las Vegas toward Mesquite, but you will get off the highway before Mesquite. From the Apex Exit outside of N. Las Vegas (Exit 58) it is 53 miles to Exit 112. We recommend you fill up your fuel tank, get snacks and use the restroom at Glendale Exits 90 and 91. Exit Hwy I-15 at Exit 112. Exit 112 is at the base of Mormon Mesa on the east side, and go right. From Exit 112 it is approximately 3 miles to the Virgin River. Cross the bridge and pull out at a wide spot at the junction of the roads. There is a sign there that says “Bundy’s Melons”. Leaders Todd Esque and Trent Draper. Contact Sonja Kokos (702) 326-5564, sonjakokos [at] yahoo [dot] com, for information.

• Osgood Swamp, August 7th. We will be exploring an old lake formed by a morainal dam. Sundew and other wetland plants will be major attractions on this trip. A US Forest Service regional botanist will be along to tell us about the area and help identify plants. Will hike one to two miles. Bring waterproof footwear, lunch and water. Two wheel drive vehicle fine. Plan to depart from the “Pink” Scolari’s at 8165 South Virginia Street at 8:00 a.m. or from J.C. Penny’s parking lot in Carson City at 8:40 a.m. We will be proceeding south on 395, and taking U.S. 50 West to South Lake Tahoe and Myers, CA. Leaders: Paul Mungan, 747-4567 and Janet Bair 329-1974.

July 2004

• Ash Meadows, July 31st. Christy Baldino, US Fish and Wildlife Service, will lead a trip to see some later blooming plants at the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. First meeting spot at 7:00 a.m. at the Albertson's grocery store at the southwest corner of Hwy 95 and Craig Road in Las Vegas. Second meeting spot at 9:00 a.m. at the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters building. Low clearance vehicles OK, but some roads are dirt/gravel. Bring hat, sunscreen, plenty of water and lunch. To sign up or request more information, please contact Sue Wainscott, (702) 737-8744 ext. 12, eriogonum [at] earthlink [dot] net
• Galena Creek headwaters, July 24th. We will be checking out the mountain flowers at an area along the Mt. Rose Highway approximately one half mile above the Mount Rose Ski Area. Possibly will continue to a second location near Tahoe Meadows. Plan to depart at 8:30 a.m. from the “Pink” Scolari’s at 8165 S. Virginia Street, or at 9:15 a.m from the Mt Rose Ski area parking lot near the Mt. Rose Highway. Leaders: Fred Peterson 747-2364; Ed Kleiner 747-3612.
• Steens Mountain in Eastern Oregon, July 16th-19th (Friday-Monday). This is an opportunity to explore and check out the flora on fascinating Steens Mountain. The mountain, rising 9,773 feet above sea level, was formed as a result of geological forces thrusting and tilting a large block of basaltic rock upward about 20 million years ago. This block was extensively glaciated during the Ice Age, resulting in the deep gorges and lake-filled depressions that you can see on the mountain today. Hiking distances will vary, and hikes will be of moderate difficulty. Bring what you need to camp at beautiful Page Springs Campground which has fire pits, water, and pit toilets. Departures will be independent with trip officially beginning Friday July 16. Take I-80 east to Winnemucca. Go north on US95 through Fields, Oregon to Frenchglen, Oregon and Page Springs campground. Leader: Paul Mungan, 747-4567. Co-leader: Fred Peterson 747-2364.
• Lakes Basin area near Graeagle, CA, July 10th. Will be hiking from Grass Lake to Long Lake or Gray Eagle Lodge, a moderately difficult hike of approximately 3 miles. This is a lovely area where it is possible to see many plants in a variety of habitats. Wear good walking shoes and bring lunch and water. Paved roads. Plan to depart at 8:00 a.m. from the McDonald’s at the Lemmon Valley exit on Highway 395 north of Reno, or at 9:00 a.m. from the rest stop west of Beckwourth, California. Leaders: Paul Mungan, 747-45677; Fred Peterson 747-2364.

June 2004

• Ball Canyon, June 26th. PREFERRED MEETING PLACE: 9:00 a.m. in the parking lot behind Bordertown on Highway 395 for a field trip in Ball Canyon. Take the Bordertown exit off Highway 395 north of Reno, turning left to cross the freeway and then right to Bordertown. Participants will be viewing the native flora on private property west of Bordertown, so gates are involved and it's important to be on time and go in and out with the group. Bring lunch and water. Leader Chris Ross 742-0518. Information Bonnie Larsen 972-0583. (NOTE: a different meeting time and place was accidentally announced for this trip in the printed Newsletter. Any participants who come, by 8:30 a.m., to the McDonalds parking lot at the Lemmon Valley exit off Highway 395 north of Reno will be met and led to the preferred meeting place above.) 
• Burton Creek, June 19th. Primary stop will be at the meadow at the Placer County Sheriff's office. Other stops may include Burton Creek, Lake Forest Meadow, and Snow Creek. Participants will hike an easy ½ to one mile. Bring lunch, hat, sunscreen and footwear that can take some water. No vehicle restrictions. Meet at McDonald’s at Mae Anne and North McCarran at 8:00 a.m. Second meeting place at McDonald’s at Tahoe City, 9:30 a.m. Field trip will commence at the Placer County sheriff’s office about two miles east of Tahoe City. Leader: John Dyer, (775) 677-2714. Co-Leader: John Reid, (760) 932-9861 or (530) 581-6247.
• Kyburz Flat, June 12th. Plan to visit moist areas in this Sierra location. Not much walking. Bring lunch, water, mosquito repellent, shoes for wet areas. Will travel on gravel road. No vehicle restrictions. Plan to depart Reno at 8:00 a.m. from near the McDonalds at MaeAnne and N. McCarran or at 8:45 from near the forest service station on CA State Route 89. Area to be visited is approximately 16.5 miles north of I-80 near the rest area at the junction of Hwy. 89 and Fiberboard Road. Leaders: Bill and Nancy Harnach (530) 994-3464, Gary Monroe, 359-4863.

May 2004

• Churchill Narrows, May 15th. Here is an opportunity to look for the rare Eriogonum diatomaceum as well as other Eriogonums and other plants. An easy one mile walk is necessary to reach the area. Bring food, water, mosquito repellent and hiking shoes. Be prepared for spring weather of any type. High clearance vehicle necessary. Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Quality Inn on Nugget Avenue, Sparks. Second meeting place will be at the Fort Churchill turnoff from ALT 95 at 9:00 a.m. Leader, Jim Morefield, 684-2902. Co-leader Gary Monroe 359-4863.
• Peavine's fire-altered landscape, May 8th. Joanne Baggs with the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Melanie Scott will lead a field trip to visit areas reseeded following last year's fires. Meet at 9:00 am in the McDonald's parking lot at the Lemmon Valley exit off Highway 395. High clearance vehicles strongly recommended. Bring lunch, water, sturdy walking shoes, and sunscreen. Contact co-leaders Joanne Baggs 355-5341 or Melanie Scott 746-1667.

April 2004

• Mojave Desert washes, April 17th. Jeri Krueger will lead a trip to view Mojave Desert wash communities in the Piute and Eldorado Valleys, south of Boulder City. The trip will focus on catclaw and mesquite habitats and the relationship between these desert trees, parasitic mistletoe and Phainopepla birds. Binoculars are recommended. Bring lunch, water, hat, boots and sunscreen. We will return to Las Vegas at 2:00 pm. Meeting place to be determined, contact Sue Wainscott (see above).
• Sand Mountain back side, April 17th. This easy one mile hike will have participants looking for plants on the sand sheet in Fairview Valley that was blown in from Sand Mountain. Time and energy permitting, the group may continue to the Fairview Peak earthquake fault scarp. Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the west parking lot of the Quality Inn at 55 E. Nugget Avenue. From I-80 in Sparks, exit McCarran, turn south and then turn right onto Nugget. Second meeting place will be at 9:00 a.m. in McDonald's parking lot along Highway 50 on the west side of Fallon. Be sure to bring lunch and water. Four-wheel drive vehicles are preferable because of the sand, but two-wheel drive O.K. if careful. Car pooling possible as always. Leader: Fred Peterson, 747-2364. Co-leader: Gary Monroe 359-4863.
• Desert National Wildlife Refuge, April 10th. Janet Bair, David Charlet and Sue Wainscott will lead a field trip to the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, north of Las Vegas. We will be breaking in our copies of the latest Mentzelia, A Flora of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada, so please plan to bring your copy! A limited number of Mentzelia (#7) will be available for sale before the field trip for $15.00. Meet at 8:00 am at the Albertson's near Craig Road and Highway 95. We will then carpool to meet at our second meeting place at 8:45 am at the Refuge's Corn Creek Station. Please note that parking is limited at the Corn Creek Station. The roads are not paved within the refuge, 4-wheel drive recommended. Bring lunch, plenty of water, hat, boots, sunscreen and your copy of Mentzelia #7! We will return to Las Vegas in the afternoon. Contact Sue Wainscott (see above). Muddy River, April 3rd. Ann Schreiber will lead a field trip along the Muddy River to see the effects of recent riparian restoration efforts by the Muddy River Regional Environmental Impact Alleviation Committee. Participants can expect to see Mojave Desert scrubland communities and Mojave Desert riparian communities along this warm-spring-fed river system. We will meet at 7:30 am at The Nature Conservancy's Southern Nevada Office, 3380 West Sahara, Las Vegas and carpool to the Muddy River, approximately 1.5 hours north of Las Vegas, near Moapa. Bring lunch, water, hat, boots and sunscreen. We will return to Las Vegas at 2:00 pm. Contact Sue Wainscott, (702) 737-8744 ext. 12, eriogonum [at] earthlink [dot] net, to sign up and/or request more information.