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Located in the northern part of the Las Vegas Valley, Tule Springs is a world-renowned mammoth fossil site, currently managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). In 1962 National Geographic documented a "Big Dig” at Tule Springs. The significant four-month study cataloged thousands of Ice Age mammal fossils including Columbian Mammoth, Ground Sloth, American Lion, Camelops, Bison and ancient species of Horse. THEN Tule Springs was recognized as an exceptionally significant paleontology site. Yet the findings were all but forgotten until NOW. Growth in Las Vegas Valley extending to the Upper Las Vegas Wash (along with illegal dumping and unauthorized vehicles in the area) resulted in several studies over the past few years commissioned by the BLM, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies. The studies point out literally hundreds of surface fossil sites in the area and identify three unique and endangered plants - the Las Vegas buckwheat, Merriam's bearpoppy and the Las Vegas bearpoppy. In April 2009, the exceptional attributes of Tule Springs were again substantiated when a small team of scientists were dispatched to the site to evaluate Tule Springs potential as a National Monument. The ensuing report recommends that "the area should definitely receive protection to preserve the fossil resources." It also says this location holds opportunities to attract vistors from all over the world as well as provide recreational and educational pursuits to Nevada residents. Protectors of Tule Springs, a non-Profit friends-group organization, advocate that this area be designated as a National Monument- IMMEDIATELY - to assure it's preservation and enjoyment now and for future generations. We invite your support and involvement. |
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