Amargosa Vole Habitat Restoration

We are looking for volunteer help on November 22 and 23, 2024, to help enhance habitat for the federally endangered Amargosa vole (Microtus californicus scirpensis), a medium-sized, marsh adapted rodent,  which is one of the most threatened animals in North America.  It was reintroduced into Shoshone, California in 2020.  Amargosa voles are only found near water and utilize three-square bulrush (Schoenoplectus americanus) marshes for forage, nesting, and protection against predators.  Marsh 31 near the pupfish ponds is being invaded by phragmites and quailbush.  We need help removing these plants so that we can make it mostly three-square bulrush again.  This is a continuation of the work that occurred in May 2024; however, this time we will do some bullrush planting!

Shoshone is 1/2 hour West of Pahrump and a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas.

Click here to view a flyer with photos of the vole and area.

When:  November 22 & 23, 2024.  Each day, we will work from 8 am to 4 pm

We will be doing the following activities:

• Digging up phragmites with shovels.
• Removing quailbush and other non-desirable plants.
• Planting three-square bulrush plugs in cleared areas.
• Installing weed barrier plastic around the marsh edges to keep out phragmites.

What to Bring:  Dress in layers so if you get hot you can remove a layer.  Bring rubber knee high boots if you have them as some areas will be muddy.  Bring a hat, sunscreen, work gloves and a water bottle which can be refilled if needed.  Bring your own food.

To Register:  Contact Christiana Manville by text, phone or email:  702-271-6137 Christiana_Manville@fws.gov  Please specify which day you want to volunteer for.  Specify if you want to camp at the Shoshone Campground and if so what nights.

Thanks for your interest in conservation along the Amargosa River.

One of our partners the  Amargosa Conservancy is organizing a trail maintenance workday at China Ranch Date Farm on Saturday October 26, 2024, in Tecopa California.  Please see the attached Trail Stewardship flyer. 

We will have several volunteer workdays in January 2025 for the Shoshone Springbrook restoration project.  The dates still need to be scheduled.

Hope you can make it!!