Bahsahwahbee - Swamp Cedars

On the valley bottom of Spring Valley, Nevada, both north and south of US Highway 6 & 50, you can spot trees growing. Normally seeing trees isn't a big deal, but in the Great Basin desert, it can be unusual at lower elevaitons unless water is present. 

It turns out these trees are Rocky Mountain junipers (Juniperus scopulorum). Usually found near streams, why are they on the valley bottom? True, there are numerous springs in the eponymous Spring Valley, but many of the trees aren't next to them. So how are they growing? It turns out there's a clay layer under part of the valley, created a perched water table.

Most people drive right through Spring Valley on their way to or from Ely or Great Basin National Park.. Now, there's an extra incentive to stop--to learn more about these swamp cedars and the place called Bahsahwahbee. Along the edge of the highway is a pullout with five signs. 

The first sign on the left explains about Bahsahwahbee, the Sacred Water Valley. 

The next highlights the biodiversity of the area.

The third gets into history that has long been overlooked,t he swamp cedar massacres.

The fourth goes into more details about the trees.

The fifth highlights the Great Basin National Heritage Area.

These signs provide great information about an area that most people don't give a second thought to. 

You can find more info about Bahsahwahbee and the Swamp Cedars at:
Bahsahwahbee website
High Country News article, April 17, 2024