Author: Axotl

Desert Food Chain

The desert food chain is a complex system involving various organisms interacting for energy and survival. Despite the harsh conditions of deserts, life has adapted to these environments, and a delicate balance exists within the food chain. Here is a simplified overview of the desert food chain:

  1. Producers:
    • Plants and Cacti: Deserts have specialized plants adapted to conserve water and thrive in arid conditions. Examples include cacti, succulents, and drought-resistant shrubs. These plants are primary producers, converting sunlight into energy through photosynthesis.
  2. Primary Consumers:
    • Herbivores: Insects, rodents, and small mammals feed on desert plants. Examples include grasshoppers, mice, and rabbits. These organisms are primary consumers that obtain their energy by consuming plants.
  3. Secondary Consumers:
    • Carnivores: Predators in the desert feed on herbivores. Examples include snakes, lizards, and birds of prey. Some mammals like foxes and coyotes also fall into this category, preying on smaller animals for sustenance.
  4. Tertiary Consumers:
    • Top Predators: Larger predators at the top of the desert food chain prey on herbivores and smaller carnivores. Examples include large birds of prey like eagles and apex predators like some species of big cats (e.g., cougars or cheetahs, depending on the desert region).
  5. Scavengers:
    • Scavengers: These organisms feed on the remains of dead animals. Scavengers play a crucial role in nutrient recycling in the desert ecosystem. Examples include vultures, hyenas, and certain types of beetles.
  6. Decomposers:
    • Microorganisms: Decomposers decompose organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler nutrients the soil can absorb. Bacteria and fungi are essential decomposers in the desert ecosystem.

Throughout this food chain, energy is transferred from one trophic level to the next, with each level being dependent on the level below for its energy source. Water is a limiting factor in deserts, and many organisms have adapted various mechanisms to conserve water or extract it efficiently from their food sources. The delicate balance of the desert food chain is essential for the survival of its inhabitants in these harsh environments.

Stagecoaches and Stage Routes in the Mojave Desert

In the 19th century, stagecoaches and stage lines were crucial in transportation across the American West, including the Mojave Desert. The Mojave Desert, located in the southwestern United States, spans parts of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona. Stagecoaches were an essential means of transportation for people and goods during this time, connecting remote areas and facilitating the westward expansion.

Key points about stagecoaches and stage lines in the Mojave Desert include:

  1. Butterfield Overland Mail Route:
    • The Butterfield Overland Mail Company operated one of the most famous stagecoach routes in the 1850s. The Butterfield Overland Mail Route ran from St. Louis, Missouri, to San Francisco, California, passing through the Mojave Desert. This route covered vast distances and was critical for mail delivery and passenger transport.
  2. Mojave Road:
    • The Mojave Road was a historic trade route later used by stagecoaches, connecting the Colorado River with the Mojave River. It was a challenging trail across the desert, and stagecoaches faced numerous obstacles, including extreme heat, lack of water, and rough terrain.
  3. Water Stops:
    • One of the significant challenges for stagecoach travel in the Mojave Desert was water scarcity. Stagelines had to plan their routes carefully, stopping at reliable water sources to replenish supplies for passengers and horses.
  4. Freighting and Passenger Service:
    • Stagecoaches served as freighting vehicles for goods and as a mode of passenger transport. Passengers endured long, uncomfortable journeys in the stagecoaches’ often cramped and sweltering conditions.
  5. Overland Trail Companies:
    • Various stagecoach companies operated in the Mojave Desert, providing services to different regions. These companies included the Pioneer Stage Line and the California Stage Company.
  6. Decline of Stagecoaches:
    • The rise of the transcontinental railroad in the late 19th century contributed to the decline of stagecoach travel. Railroads provided a faster and more efficient means of transportation, reducing the reliance on overland stagecoach routes.
  7. Historical Landmarks:
    • Some remnants of the old stagecoach routes and stations can still be found in the Mojave Desert, serving as historical landmarks. These sites provide a glimpse into the challenges early travelers face in the region.

Today, the legacy of stagecoaches and stage lines in the Mojave Desert is preserved in museums, historical sites, and the stories of the Old West. The Mojave Desert symbolizes the challenges and adventures faced by pioneers and travelers in the 19th century.

Ecosections

Ecosections, also known as ecological sections, are geographic subdivisions of a region based on its climate, landforms, and vegetation. In California, the state is divided into several ecosections, each characterized by unique ecological features. These divisions help in understanding and managing the diverse ecosystems within the state. Remember that the specific ecosection classification system may vary depending on the source. One commonly used system is the “California Ecological Units” classification. Here are some examples of ecosections in California:

  1. Sierra Nevada
    • Characterized by high mountain ranges, including the iconic Sierra Nevada.
    • Alpine and subalpine ecosystems, mixed conifer forests, and meadows.
  2. Southern California Mountains and Valleys
    • Encompasses the Transverse and Peninsular Ranges.
    • Chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands are common vegetation types.
  3. Central California Valley
    • Includes the expansive Central Valley, a major agricultural region.
    • Diverse agricultural landscapes, grasslands, and riparian ecosystems.
  4. Great Basin
    • Spans the northeastern part of California.
    • Sagebrush steppe, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and mountain ranges.
  5. Mojave Desert
    • It is located in the southeastern part of the state.
    • Characterized by desert landscapes with Joshua trees, creosote bush, and other desert plants.

These ecosections provide a framework for understanding the ecological diversity of California, which is crucial for conservation, land management, and environmental planning. It’s important to note that these descriptions are generalizations, and there may be ecosystem variations and overlaps within each ecosection.

Googie Architecture

Roy’s Motel & Cafe – Amboy, Ca.

Googie architecture is a distinctive architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century in the United States. It is often associated with the design of roadside architecture, particularly diners, motels, gas stations, and other commercial buildings. The style is characterized by bold, futuristic, and space-age elements, reflecting the optimism and fascination with technology that prevailed during the post-World War II era.

Neon sign – Road Runner’s Retreat, 2001 – Route 66, Mojave Desert

Key features of Googie architecture include:

  1. Upswept Roofs and Dramatic Angles: Buildings often feature bold, upswept roofs, acute angles, and dynamic geometric shapes.
  2. Large Plate Glass Windows: Transparency and visibility were emphasized, with large windows often integrated into the design.
  3. Steel and Concrete Construction: The use of modern materials, such as steel and concrete, was common in Googie architecture.
  4. Atomic and Space Age Motifs: Elements inspired by the Space Age, atomic symbols, and futuristic motifs were frequently incorporated into the design, reflecting the cultural fascination with space exploration and technology.
  5. Neon Signs and Lighting: Bright and colorful neon signs were a hallmark of Googie architecture, contributing to a vibrant and attention-grabbing aesthetic.
  6. Futuristic Materials: The use of materials like Formica, plastic, and fiberglass, which were considered modern and cutting-edge at the time.
Hesperia Airport

Googie architecture reached its peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s but declined in the subsequent decades. Nevertheless, it has left a lasting impact on popular culture and is celebrated for its whimsical and nostalgic qualities. Many examples of Googie architecture can still be found across the United States, particularly in areas that experienced significant suburban development during the mid-20th century.

Las Vegas, Nevada – 2005

Tulare Lake – Vanished

Many folks interested in Mojave Desert history are aware that in 1776, Francisco Tomás Hermenegildo Garcés was the first non-native American to cross the Mojave from the Mojave Indian villages near Needles at the Colorado River to the Mission San Gabriel near Los Angeles, California.  Trapper and explorer Jedediah Smith also crossed the Mojave in 1826 and in 1827.

Tulare Lake – 1874

Not so well known is that when they left the mission at San Gabriel, both men made their way north to the San Joaquin Valley and the shore of Tulare Lake.   In tracking the paths of both men concerning our modern geography, it is soon discovered that this lake does not seem to exist.

What happened to Tulare Lake?

The answer to this mystery of a disappearing lake is simple yet inelegant and predictable:

At the onset of American settlement in the area in the late 1840s, the lake was the largest body of fresh water west of the Great Lakes. Its destruction by the late 1800s because of diking and water diversion for irrigation was one of the most dramatic signs of a major theme in the state’s history: the rapid transformation of the wild California landscape into one dominated almost completely by human action.

From Report of the Board of Commissioners on the Irrigation of the San Joaquin, Tulare, and Sacramento Valleys of the State of California.

Tulare Lake Satellite Overlay 2018

So, now you know.

California High & Low Deserts

https://mojavedesert.net/ecology/

California is home to high and low deserts, characterized by distinct features, climates, and elevations. The primary differences between California’s high and low deserts include elevation, temperature, and vegetation.

Low Desert
High Desert
  1. Elevation:
    • High Desert: The high desert refers to areas at higher elevations, typically between 2,000 and 4,000 feet above sea level. Examples of high desert regions in California include the Mojave Desert. Cities like Lancaster and Palmdale are located in the high desert region.
    • Low Desert: The low desert, on the other hand, is found at lower elevations, often below 2,000 feet. The Colorado Desert, part of the larger Sonoran Desert, is an example of a low desert in California. Cities like Palm Springs and Indio are located in the low desert region.
  2. Temperature:
    • High Desert: High deserts generally experience greater temperature fluctuations between day and night. Summers can be hot, with daytime temperatures exceeding 100°F (37.8°C), while winters can be cool, with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly.
    • Low Desert: Low deserts tend to have higher average temperatures, especially during the summer. Daytime temperatures in the low desert areas can often surpass 100°F (37.8°C), and the winters are milder compared to the high deserts.
  3. Vegetation:
    • High Desert: Vegetation in the high desert is adapted to the arid conditions and includes hardy shrubs, grasses, and some cold-resistant plants. Joshua trees are a characteristic plant of the Mojave Desert.
    • Low Desert: The low desert is known for its unique plant life, including various species of cacti and succulents. The iconic saguaro cactus is commonly found in the lower elevations of the Sonoran Desert.
  4. Geography:
    • High Desert: The high desert often features rocky terrain and vast expanses of open land and is characterized by a mix of mountains, plateaus, and valleys.
    • Low Desert: The low desert may have more sandy and flat terrain, including areas with salt flats. Rugged mountains may also punctuate the landscape.

It’s important to note that these are generalizations, and there can be variations within each desert region. The specific characteristics can also vary depending on the exact location within California.

Butterfield Overland Stage Mail Route

The Butterfield Overland Mail Route was a historic transportation route in the mid-19th century that played a crucial role in connecting the eastern and western parts of the United States.

Butterfield Overland Stage Route (Oxbow Route)

Here are some key points about the Butterfield Overland Mail Route:

  1. Establishment: The Butterfield Overland Mail Company was awarded a government contract in 1857 to establish and operate a stagecoach and mail route between St. Louis, Missouri, and San Francisco, California. The purpose of the route was to improve communication and transportation between the two coasts, especially in light of the California Gold Rush.
  2. Route: The route covered approximately 2,800 miles and passed through eight present-day states: Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Oregon. It traversed various terrains, including deserts, mountains, and plains.
  3. Frequency and Duration: The Butterfield Overland Mail Company operated its stagecoaches twice a week in each direction, and the journey took about 25 days to complete. This significantly improved travel time compared to other methods available at the time.
  4. Stations and Stops: The company established a series of stations along the route to facilitate the long and arduous journey, spaced about 20-30 miles apart. These stations provided fresh horses, food, and accommodations for passengers and drivers. Some of these stations eventually became important settlements in their own right.
  5. Challenges: The route faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the threat of attacks from Native American tribes. The company had to implement security measures to protect passengers and mail.
  6. End of Operations: The Butterfield Overland Mail Route faced financial difficulties exacerbated by the onset of the Civil War. 1861, the service was suspended, and the stagecoaches and stations were abandoned. The route became less relevant as the transcontinental railroad was completed after the Civil War, offering faster and more reliable transportation.
  7. Legacy: While the Butterfield Overland Mail Route was relatively short-lived, its legacy persists. The route contributed to the United States’s westward expansion and shaped the development of communities along its path. Some old stations have been preserved as historic sites, and portions of the route have been designated the “Butterfield Overland Mail Route.”

The Butterfield Overland Mail Route remains an important chapter in the history of westward expansion and transportation in the United States during the mid-19th century.

https://mojavedesert.net/stagecoaches/

https://mojavedesert.net/mojave-desert-indians/

https://digital-desert.com/historic-roads/

  1. Butterfield Overland Mail (or Oxbow Route):
    • The Butterfield Overland Mail was a stagecoach and mail delivery service that operated from 1857 to 1861. It was a vital communication and transportation link between the eastern and western United States.
    • The route covered approximately 2,800 miles, connecting St. Louis, Missouri, and San Francisco, California. It passed through several states, including Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
    • The term “Oxbow” might not be directly associated with the Butterfield Overland Mail but could be a local or regional name for a section of the route or a specific location along the way.
  2. Overland Stage Route:
    • The Overland Stage Route, on the other hand, generally refers to the network of stagecoach routes that existed in the western United States during the 19th century. These routes were crucial for mail delivery, transportation of passengers, and freight.
    • The most famous of these stagecoach lines was the Butterfield Overland Mail, but there were other stage lines as well, such as the Central Overland California and Pikes Peak Express Company (C.O.C. & P.P.), which operated a route known as the “Pony Express.”
The Butterfield Overland Mail and Its Impact on California

19th Century Military

https://mojavedesert.net/military/

Camp Cady – 1863, Rudolph D’Heureuse

The 19th century was a period of significant expansion and change in the United States, and the military played a crucial role in securing and maintaining control over newly acquired territories. The Mojave Desert was part of this expansion in the southwestern United States. Here are some key points about the military in the Mojave Desert during the 19th century:

  1. Mexican-American War (1846-1848): The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo 1848 ended the Mexican-American War and ceded a large portion of territory, including the Mojave Desert, to the United States. The U.S. Army played a central role in the conquest and occupation of these new territories.
  2. California Gold Rush (1848-1855): The discovery of gold in California in 1848 led to a massive influx of settlers and prospectors. This increased population in the region and the military was tasked with maintaining order, protecting settlers from Native American resistance, and resolving conflicts among different groups.
  3. Mormon Pioneer Expeditions: In the mid-19th century, Mormon pioneers, led by Brigham Young, established a series of settlements in what is now Utah and the surrounding areas, including parts of the Mojave Desert. The military presence was important for maintaining peace and resolving disputes between the settlers and other groups.
  4. Butterfield Overland Mail Route: In the late 1850s, the Butterfield Overland Mail Company established a stagecoach route through the Mojave Desert, connecting the eastern and western coasts. The U.S. Army protected the mail coaches and stations along the route.
  5. Civil War (1861-1865): During the Civil War, many military forces were withdrawn from the western frontier to participate in the conflict. This temporarily reduced the military presence in the Mojave Desert. Additionally, the Confederate Army briefly invaded Arizona and New Mexico territories, which included parts of the Mojave Desert.
  6. Indian Wars: The 19th century saw conflicts between the U.S. military and various Native American tribes in the Mojave Desert region. The military was involved in efforts to control and relocate Native American populations.
  7. Fort Mojave: Established in 1859, Fort Mojave played a significant role in the military’s presence in the Mojave Desert. It served as a base for operations against local Native American tribes and protected settlers and travelers.
  8. Railroad Construction: The late 19th century also saw the construction of railroads through the Mojave Desert. The military played a role in ensuring the security of railroad workers and the transportation of goods.

Overall, the military presence in the Mojave Desert during the 19th century was shaped by the expansion of the United States, the Gold Rush, conflicts with Native American tribes, and the development of transportation routes across the region.

Randsburg Railway

https://mojavedesert.net/railroads/randsburg-railway/

Randsburg Railway refers to a historic narrow-gauge railway that once operated in and around the town of Randsburg, California, in the United States. Randsburg is a small mining town located in the Mojave Desert, and the railway played a significant role in the transportation of minerals and people in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Randsburg Railway was primarily built to serve the mining industry, carrying gold, silver, and other valuable minerals from the mines in the area to nearby processing facilities. The railway also provided a means of transportation for the town’s residents and visitors.

The railway was initially constructed in 1896, connecting Randsburg with the Southern Pacific Railroad at Kramer Junction. The tracks covered about 12 miles and used narrow-gauge equipment. The Southern Pacific Railroad acquired the Randsburg Railway in 1897, and it became part of their system. This connection with the Southern Pacific allowed for the efficient transportation of ore and other goods to wider markets.

Over the years, the mining industry in Randsburg declined, and as a result, the railway’s importance diminished. The line was eventually abandoned in the mid-1930s. Today, Randsburg is a small, historic town that attracts tourists interested in its mining heritage and the remnants of the railway, which can still be seen in the area.

The Randsburg Railway is a part of the rich history of mining and transportation in the American West. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that existed in the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.