The Western Region of the National Speleological Society is pleased to present Speleo-Ed 2009 at Rainbow Basin near Barstow, California from March 20 to 22. This year's offerings explore the extreme environment of the Mojave Desert in all its diversity. With many new speakers and lots of field trips, this seminar should offer something for everyone.
We hope you can join us!Sessions include:The Caves of
Death ValleyTitus Canyon & Devil's Hole II Caves
Recognizing Cave Arthropods
The Endangered Pupfish of Devil's Hole Cave
Great Basin National Park Cave Bioinventory
A Private Tour of the
Goldstone Deep Space Communications ComplexRainbow Basin & Hidden Canyon Cave Trips
Tours of the
Black Mountain Rock Art DistrictA field trip to view the paleontology records in the Rainbow Basin syncline
About the SeminarSpeleo-Ed seminars are an outstanding way to learn more about cave exploration and science while enjoying a fun and social weekend with friends from across the western states. With the gracious assistance of many volunteers and organizations, we have worked together to deliver a great spring weekend to kick off your summer caving season.
Rainbow Basin Natural Area, Barstow, CARainbow Basin is located 8 miles north of
Barstow, California. It is designated as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern due to landscape features and paleontological resources in the area. Many visitors come to see exciting multicolored rock formations and walk the scenic canyons. A variety of desert wildlife is found here, including the protected
desert tortoise. The area features a soil pipe cave within walking distance of the campground.
Camping and AccommodationsWith the gracious assistance of the
Barstow District of the BLM, we have reserved a loop of the
Owl Canyon Campground at Rainbow Basin for Speleo-Ed events. Each campsite has a table and multiple campfire pits in place. There is ample space at each site, so cavers may be asked to share sites depending on attendance. A water tank and pit toilets are located in the campground, but no shower facilities. All camping fees are included in your registration. We have arranged for an extra 500-gallon tank to be brought to the area, but it would be a good idea to bring your own supplies as well. Seating will be in short supply, so please bring a folding camp chair if you can. If possible, please carpool to save space and energy. There is no electrical power at the campground. Day use rates are available but do not include camping, Sunday's field trips or evening activities. The town of
Barstow is only 20 minutes away for anyone wishing to stay in a hotel.
For more information, please visit:http://www.caves.org/region/western/se2009/index.html