The Society for Conservation of Bighorn Sheep (SCBS) is looking for volunteers to evaluate and assess natural water sources for the presence of bighorn sheep, Ovis canadensis nelsoni, and the availability of water by accepting the challenge to become a “Spring Captain”.

Historically, hundreds of small natural water sources- be they seeps, springs, or ephemeral tenajas- dotted the desert landscape.  These sites contributed to the historical range and movements of bighorn sheep across the vast expanses of high crags and low bajadas that comprise the Eastern Mojave Desert.  Unfortunately, due to anthropogenic causes, some of these sites have run dry outright, while others transition from being perennial oases to seasonal puddles.  The Society for Conservation of Bighorn Sheep has embraced the realization that in order to restore water to these ranges, the installation of rain catching wildlife water developments (WWDs) is of critical importance.  Yet, how do we understand where the development of artificial water sources is an absolute priority? You can volunteer today to help us cover the vast expanse of desert these sheep call home, so that we may understand where water is of absolute necessity.  The documentation of historical bighorn sheep presence, and the current state of water availability, is crucial information that SCBS takes into consideration when setting priorities for the development of new WWDs.  

Volunteers would be responsible for surveying a series of natural water sources, and recording important metrics like the status of water available to wildlife, and the presence of such wildlife as determined by tracks, feces, calls, or sight.  There are a multitude of mountain ranges from Barstow to Needles to choose from.  Sites are often extremely remote, and require the use of four wheel drive to access.  Long, arduous hikes should be expected.  If you are willing, maintenance of these sites, such as digging out gravel to free up water, and removing invasive vegetation that sucks springs dry, is appreciated depending on the location and land-use agency of the site (please communicate with the Spring Captain Coordinator before altering any site). 

This is a tough gig for tough people, who find solace in wandering up desert washes in search of the sweet scent of water, and exclusive glimpses into the true heart of the desert.  

Please contact the Spring Captain Coordinator to apply or for more information; use the contact us page to minimize the spam from the bots.